Strength training and stretching system as well as resistance band arrangement for use with

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates generally to exercise equipment. More particularly, this invention is directed to customizable and ergonomically designed exercise equipment used for strength training and stretching. Most specifically, this invention is directed to a detachable resistance band assembly for use with a fitness station that may be installed in a commercial gym, a home gym, or in an outdoor exercise area. The fitness station allows a user to conveniently and effectively perform and track with precision a variety of different exercises that engage multiple muscle groups using the resistance band assembly. The resistance band assembly is selectively engageable with one of a plurality of attachment members provided on the fitness station. The resistance band assembly may be adjusted to provide a variable resistive force to exercises performed using the fitness station.BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0002] It is well known that in order to keep oneself healthy and active, it is necessary to incorporate exercise into one's daily routine. Many people join gyms to help them exercise on a regular basis. A typical gym will include a number of machines or large equipment systems which are dedicated to exercise one or another part of the body. The user will have to move from machine to machine in order to exercise their entire body. Most of these machines utilize weights which the user will selectively engage with the machine in order to achieve the intensity of workout that they desire. If the user is inexperienced, there is the tendency to avoid particular machines simply because it is difficult to figure out what one is supposed to do on that machine. An inexperienced user or someone who is too ambitious may inadvertently injure themselves if too much weight is applied to any particular exercise. Additionally, in busier gyms, the wait time for particular machines may be long enough that it tends to discourage people from undertaking a full exercise routine. There is therefore the tendency to pick one or two favorite machines and exercises and simply overlook the rest of the body.

[0003] Another arena that is becoming increasingly popular for people to exercise in is outdoor "exercise parks". Unlike gyms, these locations have fewer pieces of equipment for the user to use and most often there is no way to increase the intensity of the workout as the user gets fitter.

[0004] Because of the issue with weight-based equipment and the tendency of inexperienced users to accidentally injure themselves thereon, there has been a rise in the interest of using resistance bands during exercise. Resistance bands are elongated elastic or resilient member which may be stretched to greater or lesser degrees. They can be incorporated into an exercise routine for anyone from beginners through to experienced athletes.

[0005] The bands themselves may come in a variety of different lengths, diameters, wall thicknesses and different resistances and may include handles or loops at either end. The user will select the appropriate length and resistance for the exercises they wish to perform. A user may initially begin exercising with a low resistance band and progressively change to resistance bands of higher resistance as they gain strength.

[0006] During an exercise routine, the user will grasp the handles in either hand and stretch the resistance band, or they may hold part of the resistance band using one or both feet, or they may pass the resistance band around a substantially immovable object, such as a pole or a support for a piece of heavy gym equipment. They may, alternatively, anchor one end of the resistance band by tying it off to a pole or fitness equipment support.

[0007] If a person is performing a variety of different exercises it may be desirable to use a different resistance for each different exercise. Repeatedly having to swap out the resistance band for different exercises can be frustrating and time-consuming.

[0008] US 2011 / 0092347 A1 discloses a resistance exercise apparatus comprising: a stretchable cord having identical opposing first and second ends, the cord having an internal cavity and an external surface; at least one plug within the internal cavity of the cord adjacent the first end of the cord; at least one sleeve placed over the external surface of the cord adjacent the first end of the cord, the plug being situated within a length of the sleeve; at least one tether forming two compartments, a first loop compartment designed to receive at least one end of the cord with at least a portion of the sleeve and at least a portion of the plug; and at least one attachment device, at least a portion of the attachment device being designed to be received within at least a portion of the second compartment of the tether.

[0009] WO 2012 / 027468 A1 describes an exercise assembly including an elastic cable having a cable passageway defined therein, a safety cord situated within the cable passageway helping the elastic cable resist being stretched beyond a safe length wherein the safety cord can be secured to the elastic cable in various "uncapped" and "capped" configurations with the help of a cord anchor. In exemplary capped configurations, the safety cord can be secured to the elastic cable by having the cord anchor engage components positioned at least partially outside of the cable passageway.

[0010] US 2009 / 0176634 A1 discloses an elastic cord unit including a hollow outer elastic cord having a first longitudinal hole and two identical ends. Two first stops are respectively and securely received in the ends of the outer elastic cord. A hollow inner elastic cord is received in the outer elastic cord and includes a second longitudinal hole. Two ends of the inner elastic cord are respectively received in the first stops. Two second stops are respectively received in the ends of the inner elastic cord. Each end of the inner elastic cord is securely clamped between one of the first stops and one of the second stops.

[0011] US 2008 / 0090706 A1 describes a portable exercise device having an elongated tube with a pair of bolsters or handles fixedly attached to each end thereof. A third pair of bolsters is positioned intermediate the ends of the elongated tube and is slidably mounted on the tube in a reciprocatory movement relative to the pairs of bolsters at each end of the tube. Resistance elements are connected between the third pair of bolsters and the tube to resist the pushing or pulling of the third pair of bolsters.SUMMARY

[0012] There is still a need in the art for an improved system which helps a user to exercise a number of different parts of the body effectively and which uses resistance bands instead of weights as a way to increase the intensity of the workout as the user gets fitter.

[0013] The invention disclosed herein includes an improved resistance band assembly for use with a fitness station. The resistance band assembly is readily adjustable to change the resistance provided by the assembly. A user may therefore readily exercise their whole body and the system provides a way for progressively increasing the intensity of the workout.

[0014] Thus, a resistance band assembly for performing exercises with a fitness station is disclosed herein as set out in the appended set of claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] A sample embodiment of the invention is set forth in the following description, is shown in the drawings and is particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims. FIG. 1 is an isometric perspective view of a variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 2 is a schematic representation indicating that elements respectively depicted in FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C, and FIG. 2D should be aligned left to right; FIG. 2A is an exploded isometric view of some components of the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 2B is an exploded isometric view of some components of the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 2C is an exploded isometric view of some components of the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 2D is an exploded isometric view of some components of the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 2E is an exploded isometric view of an alternative example of the adjustment assembly which forms at least a part of the first attachment assembly; FIG. 3 is an isometric view of six resilient members or elastic bands according to the invention utilized in the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 4 is an isolated isometric view of a connection plate utilized in the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 5 is a top view of the connection plate; FIG. 6 is an isolated isometric view of a collar and an insert connected thereto which are utilized in the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 7 is an isometric view opposite to that shown in FIG. 6; FIG. 8 is an isolated bottom view of the collar and connected insert of FIG. 6; FIG. 9 is an isolated bottom isometric view of a third disc utilized in the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the third disc; FIG. 1 1 is an isolated top isometric view of the third disc; FIG. 12 is an isolated bottom isometric view of a second disc utilized in the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the second disc; FIG. 14 is an isolated top isometric view of the second disc; FIG. 15 is an isolated bottom isometric view of a first disc utilized in the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the first disc; FIG. 16A is a bottom view of a second example of the first disc; FIG. 17 is an isolated top isometric view of the first disc; FIG. 18 is a cross-section view of the second end of the variable resistance exercise band assembly taken along line 18-18 in FIG. 1 ; FIG. 19 is a cross-section view of the first end of the variable resistance exercise band assembly taken along line 19-19 in FIG. 1 ; FIG. 19A is an enlarged cross-section of the first end of one of the resilient bands showing a separate adjustment cone engaged therewith; FIG. 19B is an enlarged perspective view of the adjustment cone shown in FIG. 19A; FIG. 20 is a section view taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 19 depicting the bottom of the third disc; FIG. 21 is a section view taken along line 21 -21 in FIG. 19 depicting the bottom of the second disc; FIG. 22 is a section view taken along line 22-22 in FIG. 19 depicting the bottom of the first disc; FIG. 22A is a section view taken along line 22-22 in FIG. 19 but depicting the alternative example of the first disc illustrated in FIG. 16A; FIG. 23 is an end view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly taken along line 23-23 in FIG. 1 depicting a first and second hook defining the second end; FIG. 24 is an operational side view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly; FIG. 25 is an operational side view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly depicting two resilient members stretched during an exercise movement; FIG. 26 is an operational side view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly depicting the rotation of an adjustment member to select the second disc; FIG. 27 is an enlarged bottom view of the second disc during the movement indicated in FIG. 26; FIG. 28 is an enlarged bottom view of the third disc during the movement indicated in FIG. 26; FIG. 29 is an operational side view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly depicting the selection of the second disc and four resilient members stretched during an exercise movement; FIG. 30 is an operational side view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly depicting the rotation of an adjustment member to select the third disc; FIG. 31 is an enlarged bottom view of the second disc during the movement indicated in FIG. 30; FIG. 32 is an enlarged bottom view of the third disc during the movement indicated in FIG. 30; FIG. 33 is an operational side view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly depicting the selection of the third disc and four resilient members stretched during an exercise movement (note: two resilient members are not shown in this view for clarity, but all six resilient members are stretched when the third disc is selected for an exercise movement); FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 19 depicting a pair of spring tabs compressed inwards to remove a collar; FIG. 35 is an isometric perspective view of the variable resistance exercise band assembly with an auxiliary handle connected to the first end; FIG. 36 is an enlarged fragmentary elevation of the second end of the resistance band assembly;

[0016] Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] A variable resistance exercise band assembly and a strength training and stretching system is depicted in Figures 1-36. In the following description, the variable resistance band assembly is generally referred to herein as assembly 30. Assembly 30 is shown in Figs. 1-36.. A pulling force is applied to a first end of assembly 30 and a resistive force is generated in response to that pulling motion by one or more resilient members 44 which are located within a housing of the assembly 30.

[0018] In the following description, the structure and operation of assembly 30 will be described in greater detail using Figs. 1-36 as a reference.

[0019] FIG. 2 schematically depicts the various elements of assembly 30 in FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C, and FIG. 2D which should be aligned left to right as pictographically indicated in FIG. 2. FIG. 2E shows an alternative example of one of the discs utilized in assembly 30. FIGS. 3-17show individual elements of assembly 30 in isolation. FIG. 3 illustrates the resilient or elastic band members 44 which provide the resistance generated by assembly 30. FIGS. 4-5 show a connection plate 42 used to engage one end of resilient members 44. Connection plate 42 is referred to as a "connection plate" because all of resilient members 44 provided in assembly 30 are engaged therewith. FIGS. 6-8 show a sleeve member through which resilient members 44 are threaded. FIGS. 9-11 show a third disc through which resilient members 44 are threaded. FIGS. 12-14 show a second disc through which resilient members 44 are threaded. FIGS. 15-17 show a first disc through which resilient members 44 are threaded. (As indicated previously FIG. 16A shows an alternative example of the first disc. FIGS. 18-23 show the various elements of assembly 30 assembled together. FIGS. 24-36 show assembly 30 in operation.

[0020] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, assembly 30 includes a tubular housing having a first end 32 and a second end 34. A first attachment assembly 33 is provided at first end 32 of the tubular housing and a second attachment assembly 35 is provided at second end 34 thereof. The housing includes a base member 78 (Fig. 1 and 2B), a sleeve member 88, and a collar 172 which are oriented in end-to-end relationship. A bore is defined by the tubular housing and this bore extends from first end 32 through to second end 34. It will be understood that instead of the tubular housing being comprised of separate but operatively engaged components (base member 78, sleeve member 88 and / or collar 172), the tubular housing may be a single, monolithic, and unitary component. The tubular housing may be rigid along its entire length from first end 32 to second end 34 thereof. Alternatively, only a portion of the tubular housing may be rigid. So, for example, only base member 78 may be rigid. Still further, the exterior tubular housing may be rigid but one or more components located within the interior of the tubular housing may be rigid. This rigidity or partial rigidity enables a user to reach up and hook resistance band assembly 30 to a piece of exercise equipment that is located a distance above the user's head or out of the user's reach in another direction. The rigidity or partial rigidity of the tubular housing or components within the interior of the tubular housing also enables the user to grasp and manipulate resistance band assembly 30 in a single hand. This feature makes it quick and easy for a user to engage or disengage resistance band assembly 30 with a fitness station or with a workout accessory, as will be later described herein.

[0021] As indicated above, assembly 30 may include a base member 78 (FIGS. 1 and 2B) with a sleeve member 88 extending longitudinally outwardly from a first end 80, and collar 172 extending longitudinally outwardly from an end of sleeve member 88. First attachment assembly 33 (Fig. 2A) is provided at first end 32 of the tubular housing. First attachment assembly 33 includes an adjustment assembly 170 which extends partially outwardly through an opening at one end of collar 172. A second attachment assembly 35 (FIG. 2A) is provided at second end 34 of the tubular housing, specifically adjacent second end 82 of base member 78. First and second attachment assemblies 33, 35 enable assembly 30 to be selectively secured to workout accessories, exercise structures or exercise machines so that a range of exercises may be performed therewith.

[0022] A plurality of resilient members 44 (FIG. 3) is provided within a bore of the tubular housing, where the bore of the housing is comprised partially of bore 84 (FIG. 2B) of base member 78, various apertures 104 (Fig. 2C) defined in sleeve member 88, and a cavity 284 (Fig. 2D) defined in collar 172. Resilient members 44 will be described in greater detail later herein. Resilient members 44 are threaded through apertures in first, second and third discs 36, 38, 40 (FIG. 2C), through apertures in an insert 90, through apertures in sleeve member 88 and are then removably engaged with connection plate 42 (Fig. 2A). The tapered end 222 of each resilient member 44 is not able to pass through the associated aperture in the discs 36, 38, 40 with which the resilient member is engaged. Thus, resilient members 44 extend through the bore of the tubular housing from proximate first end 32 to proximate second end 34. The discs 36, 38, 40 are selectively engageable with first attachment assembly 33 provided at second end 32 of assembly 30, specifically with adjustment assembly 170. First attachment assembly 33 is used to engage resistance band assembly 30 with workout accessories as will be further described herein.

[0023] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2B, base member 78 is a tubular housing that may be fabricated entirely or partially from a strong, rigid material. Base member 78 may be comprised of two semi-circular cylinder halves which are mated together by any suitable means, such as heat-welding. Instead of being fabricated from two separate halves which are joined together, base member 78 may, alternatively, be a generally rigid, integrally formed, monolithic, or unitary member. Rigid base member 78 may be a self-supporting structure which allows a user to reach out and extend a distance without assembly 30 becoming limp. This self-supporting feature is advantageous inasmuch as it allows a user to reach an attachment member 578 (FIG. 35) that may be provided on some type of overhead exercise structure and which would be difficult to engage assembly 30 thereto if base member 78 was not self-supporting.

[0024] The material used to fabricate base member 78 may be substantially waterproof or impervious, opaque, and / or non-transparent to ultra-violet (UV) light. The latter characteristic tends to ensure that resilient members 44 located within bore 84 of housing are protected from UV exposure if assembly 30 is used in conjunction with an outdoor exercise structure. The materials used for base member 78 therefore aid in prolonging the life of both the base member 78 and resilient members 44. Base member 78 may also provide ozone protection.

[0025] Alternatively, instead of the tubular housing being rigid, base member 78, sleeve 88 and collar 172 may be fabricated so as to be flexible in nature and a rigid rod 72 used within the interior of the tubular housing may instead comprise the portion of resistance band assembly that is rigid. The rigid rod 72 may enable a user to reach upwardly, holding onto base member 78 or sleeve 88 or collar 172 and hook the second attachment assembly 35 to an overhead piece of exercise equipment with a single hand as described above.

[0026] Dimensionally, in one embodiment base member 78 may be approximately 40 cm (sixteen inches) long from end of tab 86 to second end 82 and bore 84 diameter is approximately 7 cm (2 ¾"), but clearly alternative dimensions are entirely possible, such as a base member 78 length in a range from about 15 cm (six inches) to about 90 cm (thirty six inches), 120 cm (forty eight inches), or 150 cm (sixty inches). Furthermore, when base member 78 is about 40 cm (sixteen inches), the overall assembly 30 from first end 32 to second end 34 thereof is about 60 cm (twenty-four inches). This length will be longer or shorter depending on the length of base member 78 used therein.

[0027] Referring still to FIGS. 1 and 2B, base member 78 has a first end 80, a second end 82 and a longitudinal axis 45 extending therebetween. Bore 84 of base member 78 extends from first end 80 to second end 82. Base member 78 may comprise a first section, second section, and a third section. First section is proximate first end 80 and the third section is proximate second end 82. The second section is intermediate the first and third sections. Second section is of a first diameter and the first and second sections are of a larger second diameter. An angled transition surface is provided between the second section and each of the first and third sections. The difference between the first and second diameters may extend only to the exterior surface of housing or may extend additionally to the internal diameter of bore 84. One or both of the first and third sections of base member 78 may be provided with ridges or grooves on an exterior surface thereof to aid in the gripping of assembly 30 during use thereof.

[0028] One or more tabs 86 extend outwardly from first end 80 of base member 78 and along an outer circumference thereof. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 19, tabs 86 releasably connect base member 78 to sleeve member 88. Base member 78 snaps onto sleeve member 88 by way of tabs 86 and housing is thereby piloted over the outer diameter of sleeve member 88. Tabs 86 permit easy engagement with sleeve member 88 and easy removal of base member 78 from sleeve member 88. Thus, tabs 86 act as a "quick connect" or a "quick-disconnect" element. This quick connect and quick disconnect feature aids in making it easy for a user to replace resilient members 44 in order to change the resistive force delivered by resistance band assembly 30. The feature is also useful if a resilient member 44 becomes damaged and needs to be replaced.

[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2A, second attachment assembly 35 is operatively engaged with second end 82 of base member 78. Second attachment assembly 35 includes a hook connector 60. As shown in Fig. 18, second end 82 of base member 78 is provided with a lip 274 for engagement with hook connector 60. Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2A, hook connector 60 has at least one and preferably two hooks extending outwardly from outer surface 270 thereof. In particular, a first hook 56 and a second hook 58 extend outwardly from outer surface 270 in a first direction. A pin portion 62 extends inwardly from an inner surface 276 of hook connector 60 in a second direction. Convex outer surface 270 is generally hemispherical in shape and is symmetric about longitudinal axis 45 when viewed in cross-section. An annular cut-out defining an edge rabbet 272 is formed in outer surface 270. Rabbet 272 is located adjacent lip 274 on second end 82 of base member 78 when resistance band assembly 30 is assembled. This second end 34 of resistance band assembly 30 is illustrated in FIG. 18.

[0030] Pin portion 62 is integrally formed in a unitary manner with inner surface 276 of hook connector 60. Inner surface 276 (FIGS. 2A & 18) is a convex surface facing first end 32 and spaced opposite first surface 270. Pin portion 62 is a tubular structure which extends inwardly from inner surface 276 and towards first end 32 of assembly 30. Pin portion 62 defines a hollow bore 278 that is concentric about longitudinal axis 45. Bore 278 extends from a pin end 280 outwardly towards inner surface 276 of hook connector 60 and terminates at an end 282 (FIG. 18) located between first and second surfaces 270, 276. Pin portion 62 is of a first diameter proximate hook connector 60 and is of a second diameter proximate pin end 280. A shoulder 63 is formed in pin portion 62 between the first diameter and second diameter regions. The region of pin portion 62 having the second diameter is also provided with a flat wall 64. A hole 66 is defined in the non-flattened portion of this second diameter region and hole 66 passes completely through pin portion 62. The region of pin portion 62 which includes flat wall 64 is received through central aperture 52 of connection plate 42. The flat wall 64 aligns with the flat wall 54 of connection plate 42, thereby orienting pin portion 62 and connection plate 42 and aiding in preventing rotation of connection plate 42 about longitudinal axis 45.

[0031] Pin portion 62 (FIGS. 2A and 18) extends outwardly from hook connector 60, through central aperture 52 of connection plate 42 and into a bore 284 of rod 72. First end 70 of rod 72 fits over the end of pin portion 62 and abuts face 226 of connection plate 42. A hole 74 is defined in the exterior surface of rod 72. When rod 72 is engaged with the second diameter region of pin portion 62, holes 66 and 74 are aligned with each other and a pin 68 passes through these aligned holes 66, 74 and secures rod 72 to pin portion 62 and thereby secures connection plate 42 to second attachment assembly 35.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 23, first and second hooks 56, 58 extend outwardly from outer surface 270 of hook connector 60. First and second hooks 56, 58 may be uniform, monolithic members constructed of metal or other suitably strong material that may selectively revolve in unison about longitudinal axis 45. The term "revolve" refers to the fact that hooks 56, 58 are both offset from longitudinal axis 45. Each of the first and second hooks 56, 58 may be J-shaped. First hook 56 extends upwardly and outwardly from a rigid connection 304 with upper surface 270 of hook connector 60 to form an inverted "J" terminating at a tip 308. Second hook 58 extends upwardly and outwardly from a rigid connection 306 with upper surface to form an inverted "J" terminating at a tip 310. Each of first and second hooks 56, 58 may extend through an aperture defined in upper surface 270 and into a pocket formed in the hook connector 60. The hooks 56, 58 and the pockets they fit into may have flattened regions on them similar to the flat walls 64 / 54. These flattened regions aid in keeping first and second hooks 56, 58 from rotating about the axis of the screw 271 used to secure them to hook connector 60.

[0033] When viewed from a side, first hook 56 curves in one direction from base 304 to tip 308 and second hook 58 curves in the opposite direction from base 306 to tip 310. Hooks 56, 58 may further respectively include longitudinal base or leg portions 420, 422, respectively, extending from the respective connections 304, 306, in a cantilevered manner (as best shown in FIG. 24). Hook 56 further includes a first arcuate section 410 and hook 58 includes a second arcuate section 412. First arcuate section 410 defines a concave surface 414 and second arcuate section 412 defines a concave surface 416. A first radius of curvature is associated with first arcuate section 410 on first hook 56 and a second radius of curvature is associated with the second arcuate section 412 on second hook 58. First and second radii of curvature may be equal.

[0034] First hook 56 is laterally spaced apart from second hook 58 such that a gap 302 (FIG. 23) is defined between them. Gap 302 is partially defined between first arcuate section 410 and second arcuate section 412. Gap 302 is in a range of from about 0,64 cm (1 / 4 inch) to about 5 cm (2 inches) or more. An arbitrary rectangular perimeter 424 relative to first and second hooks 56, 58 may be projected on second end 34 to define four equally sized quadrants when viewing second end 34 from above. This is illustrated in FIG. 23. The four quadrants are identified by Roman Numerals I, II, III, and IV, respectively. A base portion 420 and connection 304 of first hook 56 may be in a first quadrant I. Tip 308 of first hook 56 may be in a second quadrant Π. A base portion 422 and connection 306 of second hook 58 may be in a third quadrant III. Tip 310 of second hook 58 may be in a fourth quadrant IV. The first quadrant I is 180 degrees from the third quadrant IΠ. From this arrangement, it can be seen that the first connection 304 and the second connection 306 may be spaced apart 180 degrees from each other on diametrically opposite sides of longitudinal axis 45 when viewing second end 34 from the end as in FIG. 23. There may further be a first offset distance measured from first connection 304 to longitudinal axis 45 and a second offset distance measured from second connection 306 to longitudinal axis 45. The absolute values of the first and second offset distances may be substantially equal. Relative to gap 302, tip 308 and tip 310 are catty-cornered to each other (i.e., diagonally offset) such that if a first imaginary line is drawn from J-tip 308 to J-tip 310 and a second imaginary line is drawn from connection 304 to connection 306, the intersecting first and second lines would form an X-like pattern or X-shaped configuration when viewed from second end 34 of assembly 30. Tips 308, 310 may be spherical and are oriented in such a way so as to face first end 32 of assembly 30.

[0035] A transverse through-passageway 418 (Fig. 36) is defined between upper surface 270 and concave surfaces 414, 416. Passageway 418 is adapted to receive an attachment member 578 of a separate exercise structure such as the fitness station 510 illustrated in Figs. 37-46. A first space is defined between tip 308 of first hook 56 and upper surface 270 of assembly 30; and a second space is defined between tip 310 of second hook 58 and upper surface 270. The first and second spaces allow entry of attachment member 578 into passageway 418. One or both of first and second hooks 56, 58 may be utilized to engage attachment member 578. First and second hooks 56, 58 are substantially parallel to each other as may be seen in FIG. 23. Attachment member 578 is initially engaged by one or the other of hooks 56, 58 and then assembly 30 is twisted so that the other of the hooks 56, 58 engages attachment member 578. Attachment member 578 is thus engaged by both hooks 56, 58 and because hooks are oppositely oriented and parallel to each other, attachment member 578 will become trapped by hooks 56, 58. Attachment member 578 will not be easily accidentally released from hooks 56 and 58 unless and until a rotational-type motion on assembly 30 is utilized to disengage hooks 56, 58 from attachment member 578.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 2A, 4 and 5, connection plate 42 is provided within bore 84 of base member 78. Connection plate 42 comprises a generally rigid member that may be circular or disc-like in shape, although other shapes may be utilized such as an oval or elliptical shape. (It will be understood that any desired shape of connection plate 42 may be utilized in assembly 30). Connection plate 42 has a thickness extending between a first surface 226 and a second surface 228 thereof. First surface 226 faces first end 32 and second surface 228 faces second end 34 and connection plate 42 is generally at right angles to longitudinal axis 45. A cylindrical circumferential wall 230 extends between first and second surfaces 226, 228 and has inner and outer surfaces.

[0037] A plurality of radial apertures 46 interrupt circumferential wall 230 of connection plate 42 and extend inwardly for a distance toward a central aperture 52 defined by connection plate 42. Apertures 46 are generally C-shaped when viewed from the front (FIG. 5); where the front is considered to be from first end 32. Circumferential wall 230 is interrupted by openings 48, each of which permits access to one of apertures 46. Openings 48 extend longitudinally from first surface 226 to second surface 228 of connection plate 42. A longitudinal axis 50 (FIG. 2A and 5) extends through each aperture 46. Axis 50 is oriented generally parallel to longitudinal axis 45 of assembly 30 and is spaced eccentrically relative thereto. Apertures 46 are positioned in a satellite orientation around central aperture 52 and around longitudinal axis 45.

[0038] Central aperture 52 is aligned along longitudinal axis 45 and is defined by a generally cylindrical wall 53 which extends outwardly from an interior face 55 of second surface 228. Wall 53 includes the aforementioned flat section 54 (FIG. 5). Central aperture 52 is thus generally D-shaped when viewed from the front. Resilient members 44 are detachably engageable with connection plate 42. Each resilient member 44 subsequently extends through bore 84 of base member 78 and is engaged with at least one of first, second and third discs 36, 38, 40.

[0039] As depicted in FIG. 3, six resilient members 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, 44e, and 44f are utilized in assembly 30. Resilient members 44 comprise elongate tubular resilient or elastic bands.

[0040] These bands are longitudinally stretchable and are engaged with components within assembly 30 in order to be able to impart a resistance when stretched during the performance of an exercise motion. Each resilient member 44 includes a shaft 221 having a first end 218 spaced apart and longitudinally opposite a second end 220. Each resilient member 44 is located within the tubular housing such that shaft 221 thereof will be aligned along an axis 50 (Fig. 2A or 2C) that is eccentric from longitudinal axis 45 and is generally parallel thereto.

[0041] The shafts 221 of resilient members 44a-f may all be of the same length and diameter and wall thickness and thus provide the same resistive force. Alternatively, the various resilient members 44a-f may be of different lengths, diameters, and / or wall thicknesses and therefore provide different resistive forces. The resistive force capable of being applied by any one resilient member 44 is dependent upon the length, diameter and wall thickness of shaft 221 thereof. So, if a user wishes to customize resistance band assembly 30 for their own personal use, the user may select specific resilient members 44 which can provide the variety of resistive forces the user desires. The user may therefore select resilient members 44 which are all of the same length, diameter or wall thickness or the user may select resilient members 44 having different lengths, diameters or wall thicknesses. Apart from length, diameter and wall thickness, another way in which the resistance values of resilient members 44 may vary is if resilient members are made from different materials. A user may therefore purposefully replace a resilient member 44 fabricated from a first material with a resilient member fabricated from a second different material with a different elastic characteristic. These resilient members fabricated from different materials may also vary in length, diameter and wall thickness.

[0042] Thus, the resistive force which may be applied by resistance band assembly 30 may be customized to suit the exercise goals of the user. The customization may be accomplished by the user selectively removing some or all of the resilient members from the housing and inserting other resilient members into the housing; where the replacement resilient members are capable of providing a different resistive force than the resilient members which were removed from assembly 30. So, for example, the user may remove one or more resilient members 44 that have an outer diameter of shaft 221 that is of a first size and insert replacement resilient members having larger or smaller diameter shafts 221.

[0043] Each resilient member may have a generally conical, frustoconical or tapered plug 222 provided adjacent first end 218 of the elongate shaft 221. Plug 222 is configured to be at least partially complementary to an aperture in one of the first, second, and third discs 36, 38, 40 and is sized to become engaged or wedged therein, as will be hereinafter described. Plug 222 may be a rigid member shaped like a conventional cork-stop; however other shapes are entirely possible. For example, plug 222 may be spherical and still be able to be retained in one of the tapered apertures defined in discs 36, 38, 40. As is evident from the above, plug 222 is not able to pass through the associated aperture in the associated disc 36, 38, 40 and is thereby engaged with the associated disc.

[0044] Each resilient member is further provided with a bulbous member 224 adjacent second end 220 of shaft 221. Bulbous member 224 is spaced longitudinally from tapered plug 222 and is configured to nest within an aperture defined in connection plate 42, as will be further discussed herein. Bulbous member 224 may be a rigid spherical member but other shapes of bulbous member 224 are contemplated. For example, bulbous member 224 may be a tapered cork-stop shape like plug 222. Tapered plug 222 and bulbous member 224 may be stretchably engaged and secured to shaft 221 or may be integrally formed therewith as illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19. Each of the tapered plug 222 and bulbous member 224 includes a region that is of a greater diameter than the diameter of shaft 221.

[0045] Bulbous member 224 is of a larger diameter than the diameter of aperture 46 in connection plate 42. The diameter of bulbous member 224 is, however, smaller than the diameter of the apertures in discs 36, 38, 40 and insert 90. Bulbous member 224 is therefore able to pass through the apertures in first, second, and third discs 36, 38, 40 but is unable to pass through aperture 46 in connection plate 42. In order to engage resilient member 44 with connection plate 42, shaft 221 of resilient member 44 is inserted through opening 48 in circumferential surface 230 of connection plate 42 and is moved radially inwardly into aperture 46. This brings bulbous member 224 into abutting contact with surface 228 of connection plate 42, thereby detachably engaging resilient member 44 thereto. Resilient member 44 is disengaged from connection plate 42 by moving shaft 221 radially outwardly from the associated aperture 46 and through opening 48, thus moving bulbous member 224 out of contact with connection plate 42.

[0046] The elongate shafts 221 of each resilient members 44 may be hollow and define a longitudinal bore or lumen 301 (FIG. 19) therein which extends from proximate first end 218 of shaft 221 to proximate second end 222 thereof. (Bulbous member 224 and tapered plug 222 may be rigid members releasably secured within lumen 301 under the elastic pressure of resilient member 44.) A length limiter 300 may extend through lumen 301 and be connected with each of first and second ends 218, 222. In one embodiment, limiting member 300 connects to tapered plug 222 adjacent first end 218 of shaft 221 of the resilient member and extends to bulbous member 224 adjacent second end 220. Limiting member 300 may be fabricated from a substantially flexible material so that member 300 it is able to compress longitudinally when the resilient member 44 is in a non-stretched state. Limiting member 300 is of a longer length than shaft 221 of resilient member 44 in an un-stretched state but is of a shorter length than the length to which shaft 221 could be stretched if limiting member 300 was not provided therein. Thus, when resilient member 44 is stretched to a stretched state during an exercise motion, limiting member 300 substantially prevents resilient member 44 from being overstretched. (Repeated overstretching resilient member 44 could cause resilient member 44 to wear out prematurely.) The limiting action provided by limiting member 300 substantially reduces the risk of damage to resilient member 44 or possible injury to a user if resilient member 44 breaks during use. In one particular embodiment, limiting member 300 may be fabricated from a Kevlar ®< cord or string. It will be understood that materials other than Kevlar ®< may be utilized for this purpose. (Kevlar ®< is a registered trademark of E. I. DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY).

[0047] One or both ends 218, 220 of resilient member 44 may be circumscribed by an aperture adjustment member 223 (FIGS. 19A and 19B). In particular, aperture adjustment member 223 may be applied around the exterior surface of at least part of tapered plug 222 to enable the same to become wedged in an aperture of one of discs 36, 38, 40. Aperture adjustment member 223 has a first end 223a, a second end 223b, an exterior surface 223c, and an interior surface 223d. Interior surface 223d bounds and defines a bore 223e which extends from proximate the first end 223a to the second end 223b. An opening 223f to bore 223e is defined in first end 223a. Shaft 221 of resilient member 44 extends through bore 223e and through opening 223f. At least a portion of the face of aperture adjustment member 223 which bounds and defines opening 223f and / or bore 223e includes a friction-reducing material that allows shaft 221 of resilient member 44 to pass therethrough. The tapered plug 222 of resilient member 44 is engaged in bore 223e of aperture adjustment member 223 as illustrated in FIG. 19A. Aperture adjustment member 223 may be sized and shaped to be engaged in one of the apertures in one of the first, second or third discs 36, 38, 40 and thereby prevent the associated tapered plug 222 from being drawn through that aperture. Aperture adjustment member 223 is particularly adapted to be sized and shaped so as to become at least partially wedged in one of the apertures in first, second or third discs (i.e., one of 124b in first disc 36; 138b in second disc 38, or 158b in third disc 40) when engaged around the tapered plug 222. When aperture adjustment member 223 is wedged in the aperture and the associated disc is moved, then aperture adjustment member 223 and therefore that end of resilient member 44 will move in unison with the moving disc.

[0048] Aperture adjustment member 223 may, itself, be conical or frustoconical in shape as illustrated in FIG. 19B. Resilient member 44 may engage aperture adjustment member 223 in such a way that the latter will not tend to slip off resilient member 44 when that resilient member is inverted. The entire aperture adjustment member 223 may be fabricated from a non-stick or friction-reducing material such as Teflon ®< to reduce the likelihood of friction-induced wear of the elastic material forming resilient member 44. (Teflon ®< is a registered trademark of E. I. DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY). The materials of the aperture adjustment member 223 and discs 36, 38, 40 are of types where the static and dynamic coefficients of friction thereof are close enough that you don't get into a stick / slip situation. Additionally, the material used for aperture adjustment member 223 has a low coefficient of friction so that it is slippery and does not cause much resistive force on the outer diameter of resilient member 44. The terms "non-stick" or "friction-reducing" used herein should be considered to cover any and all materials which may be used to fabricate or coat exterior surfaces of components used in resistance band assembly 30 which allow those components to move easily relative to each other and which reduce frictional wear on those components.

[0049] Aperture adjustment members 223 may be utilized by a user when customizing assembly 30. Aperture adjustment members 33 are useful in the situation where the apertures within first, second and third discs 36, 38, 40 are larger than the tapered plug on the selected resilient member. This might occur if the resilient member in question has a shaft 221 that is of a smaller diameter and thereby has a tapered plug of smaller dimensions than a standard resilient member 44. In other instances, it may be advantageous to engage a separate aperture adjustment member around an exterior of an existing tapered plug 222 or even a bulbous member 224 that is integrally formed with the elongate resilient member or already engaged therewith so as to increase the overall diameter of the resilient member proximate first end 218 or second end 222.

[0050] Referring now to FIGS. 2C and FIGS. 6-8, sleeve member 88 is engaged with first end 80 of base member 78 and extends longitudinally outwardly therefrom. Sleeve member 88 is a generally cylindrical member with first and second ends 92, 94 and a cylindrical side wall 96 extending therebetween. Side wall 96 defines two apertures 98 therein configured to receive tabs 86 which extend outwardly from base member 78. Apertures 98 are complementary to at least part of tabs 86. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, apertures 98 may be a generally truncated-triangular shape and tabs 86 on base member 78 may have the appearance of an arrow-head. First end 92 of sleeve member 88 is positioned adjacent first end 80 of base member 78. Apertures 98 in the sleeve member 88 receive tabs 86 from base member 78 in a selectively releasable spring-locking manner, thereby creating a releasable connection between base member 78 and sleeve member 88.

[0051] Second end 94 of sleeve member 88 is configured to engage insert 90 (FIG. 2C) and collar 172, as will be later described herein. Sleeve member 88 includes a plurality of indicia or markings 100 disposed circumferentially around an exterior surface of sidewall 96 and adjacent second end 94 thereof. Thus, the indicia 100 will be positioned adjacent collar 172 when sleeve member 88 is engaged therewith. This is illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0052] Sleeve member 88 includes an end wall 102 (FIGS. 2C, 8 and 19) which defines a central aperture 232 and a plurality of satellite apertures 104 therein. Apertures 104 are spaced in a satellite configuration around central aperture 232 and eccentric with respect to longitudinal axis 45. The pattern or configuration of central aperture 232 and apertures 104 is substantially similar to apertures 52 and 46 of connection plate 42. Apertures 104 are uniform apertures meaning that they are of a constant shape and diameter from proximate a first surface of end wall 102 to proximate a second surface 102a (Fig. 8) thereof. These uniform apertures 104, which have planar walls when viewed in cross-section, allow one of resilient members 44 to pass therethrough when resilient members 44 are stretched and releasably attached to their respective discs 36, 38, 40, as will be later described herein. Central aperture 232 is not a uniform aperture in that aperture 232 is defined by a rounded, inverted cone-shaped wall. Sleeve member 88 further includes a pin-receiving ledge 105 (FIG. 6) which is concentric with central aperture 232 and extends outwardly for a distance beyond the surface of end wall 102 which faces first end 32 of assembly 30. FIG. 6 shows that pin-receiving ledge 105 is recessed relative to end wall 102.

[0053] A plurality of lobes 106 extend outwardly from the surface of end wall 102 which faces first end 32. Lobes 106 extend beyond an outer edge 290 of second end 94 of sleeve member 88. Lobes 106 are provided at intervals around the circumference of end wall 102. End wall 102 further defines a shallow recess 103 which is located inwardly of lobes 106 and is configured to be complementary to insert 90. Insert 90 is received in recess 103.

[0054] A bottom view of sleeve member 88 (FIG. 8) shows a plurality of ribs 234 extend radially inwardly from an inner surface of sidewall 96 and towards an outer circular support member 236. Ribs 234 provide structural support to sleeve member 88 when subjected to forces produced by resilient members 44 during use of assembly 30. A pair of central ribs 238 diametrically opposed to each other is connected to and extends outwardly from a circular inner support 240. Circular inner support 240 is concentric with outer circular support 236 and is located inwardly therefrom. Ribs 238 extend radially from inner circular support 240 to outer circular support 236 and are connected to each of supports 240 and 236. A gap 242 is defined between inner circular support 240 and outer circular support 236. When sleeve member 88 is engaged with second attachment assembly 35, ribs 238 act as a tongue-and-groove type attachment with slots 79 defined in first end 76 of rod 72 of second attachment assembly 35. Ribs 238 slide into and are captured by slots 79 when first end 76 of rod is received in gap 242 of sleeve member 88. This engagement between sleeve member 88 and rod 72 is illustrated in FIG. 19. When ribs 238 are slidably received within slots 79, the ribs 238 tend to restrict rotation of rod 72 about longitudinal axis 45.

[0055] Insert 90 is shown in FIGS. 2C, 6 and 7. Insert 90 is engageable in sleeve member 88 and with third disc 40. Insert 90 includes a first wall 109 and a plurality of additional walls 111 of differing diameters. Walls 111 extend outwardly and rearwardly from the circumference of first wall 109. The configurations of walls 111 and of the circumference of first wall 109 are complementary to the shape of recess 103 defined in sleeve member. As illustrated herein, both the recess 103 and circumference of walls 109 and 111 may have the appearance of a daisy-type flower. A plurality of tabs 112 extend outwardly from the peripheral surface of walls 111.

[0056] First wall 109 of insert 90 defines a central aperture 108 therein which is aligned along longitudinal axis 45 and is positioned to be in a complementary location to central aperture 232 of sleeve member 88. A plurality of satellite apertures 110, eccentric to central aperture 108, are defined in first wall 109 and are arranged in a pattern substantially similar to that of the apertures 104 of sleeve member 88. Apertures 110, on insert 90, may be dimensionally sized relatively equal in size to each other and may be smaller than central aperture 108.

[0057] FIGS. 6-8 show insert 90 engaged with end wall 102 of sleeve member 88. Insert 90 is configured to snap-fittingly engage with sleeve member 88 by means of tabs 112 traveling through the associated apertures 104 and interlockingly engaging with rear surface 102a of wall 102 on sleeve member 88. When insert 90 is connected to sleeve member 88 and snapped into place via tabs 112, insert 90 occupies recess 103 in sleeve member 88 and wall 109 of insert 90 is substantially flush with the surface of wall 102 which faces first end 32. Additionally, central aperture 108 on insert 90 is longitudinally aligned with central aperture 232 on sleeve member 88 and satellite apertures 110 on insert 90 are longitudinally aligned with satellite aperture 104 on sleeve member 88. Lobes 106 on sleeve member 88 project outwardly beyond first wall 109 of insert and are positioned outwardly of the circumferential surface of insert 90.

[0058] As indicated above and illustrated in FIG. 2C, assembly 30 includes a first disc 36, a second disc 38 positioned adjacent first disc 36 along longitudinal axis 45, and a third disc 40 positioned adjacent second disc 38 along longitudinal axis 45. Second disc 38 is in direct contact with each of the first and third discs 36, 40. Preferably, no gaps are defined between first disc 36 and second disc 38 and between second disc 38 and third disc 40. Third disc 40 is located between insert 90 and second disc 38 and first disc 36 is located between second disc 38 and an interior surface of collar 172 proximate first end 32 of assembly 30.

[0059] Each of first, second, and third discs 36, 38 40 defines a plurality of apertures therein. The apertures are arranged on each disc 36, 38, 40 in a substantially similar pattern to the configuration of apertures on connection plate 42, sleeve member 88 and insert 90. The pattern illustrated herein includes the provision of a central aperture which is concentric with longitudinal axis 45 and a plurality of satellite apertures located around the central aperture and eccentric from longitudinal axis 45. The central apertures on the three discs 36, 38, 40 are all aligned along longitudinal axis 45. Similarly, each of the plurality of satellite apertures on any one of the discs 36, 38, 40 is aligned with identically positioned satellite apertures on the other of the discs 36, 38, 40 and with satellite apertures in connection plate 42, sleeve member 88, and insert 90 (Fig. 6). An axis 50 that is eccentric to longitudinal axis 45 extends through each group of aligned satellite apertures. An example of one such eccentric axis 50 is shown in FIG. 2C. Thus the three central apertures are axially aligned (along longitudinal axis 45) and each group of three satellite apertures is axially aligned (along one of the axes 50). A shaft 221 of one of resilient members 44 is threaded through each aligned groups of the satellite apertures.

[0060] The first, second and third discs 36, 38, 40 will now be described herein in that order, even though third disc 40 is located adjacent insert 90 described above.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2C and FIGS. 15-17, first disc 36 is a generally rigid cylindrical member positioned closest to first end 32 of assembly 30 relative to second disc 38 and third disc 40. First disc 36 has a first surface 114 bounded by a circumferential edge 116, a second surface 118 partially bounded by edge 120 and a cylindrical sidewall 122 extending between first and second surfaces 114, 118. First and second surfaces 114, 118 are oriented substantially at right angles to longitudinal axis 45. First and second surfaces 114, 118 of first disc 36 define a central aperture 126 and a plurality of satellite apertures 124 therein. Satellite apertures 124 are eccentrically spaced about central aperture 126 and longitudinal axis 45. In the illustrated embodiment, six apertures 124 are spaced symmetrically about central aperture 126 and longitudinal axis 45. Apertures 124 extend completely through disc 36 from first surface 114 to second surface 118 thereof.

[0062] Of these apertures 124, four apertures are labeled by reference number 124a. These 124a apertures are cylindrically shaped and are of a substantially constant diameter between first and second surfaces 114, 118. One or more of the apertures 124 is labeled by reference number 124b. Apertures 124b are bounded and defined by a frustoconical sidewall that tapers inwardly towards axis 50 which runs through the center of each aperture 124b. With primary reference to FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17, first disc 36 has an upper aperture edge 256 spaced apart from a lower aperture edge 258 and tapered aperture 124b is defined between them. Upper aperture edge 256 has a larger diameter than lower aperture edge 258 and the wall extending therebetween therefore tapers inwardly towards axis 50 from first surface 1 14 to second surface 1 18. In particular, tapered aperture 124b is bounded by a tapered frustoconical wall 125 which connects to a cylindrical wall 127 (depicted in cross-section Fig. 19). Wall 125 may be uniformly angled or tapered. Aperture 124b is configured to receive therein the complementary-shaped frustoconical or tapered plug 222 provided on one of resilient members 44.

[0063] Central aperture 126 extends through disc 36 from first surface 1 14 to second surface 1 18 and is aligned along longitudinal axis 45 of assembly 30. A washer receiving area 260 may be formed in the second surface 118 of first disc 36 surrounding central aperture 126. Washer receiving area 260 may include a washer receiving surface 261 which is concentric with central aperture 126. Central aperture 126 is alignable with annular regions 140 and 164 in second and third discs 38 and 40, respectively.

[0064] First disc 36 further defines a plurality of notches 129 that interrupt bottom edge 120 of disc 36 and are arranged circumferentially on disc 36. Notches 129 extend inwardly from second surface 118 towards first surface 114. Notches 128 are configured to receive complementary shaped tabs or projections which extend outwardly from second disc 38 as will be described hereafter.

[0065] With primary reference to FIG. 17, the first surface 114 of first disc 36 has a diameter 262 measured from edge 116 and extending through longitudinal axis 45. Diameter 262 of first disc 36 may be approximately 6,4 cm (two and a half inches). The upper edges defining apertures 124 all have the same diameter 264 at the first surface 114 regardless of whether the aperture is a uniform aperture 124a or a tapered aperture 124b. Diameter 264 extends through central axis 50 of the satellite apertures 124a. The approximate surface area of first surface 114 of first disc 136 may be found by first calculating the overall area of first surface and subtracting the area of the six satellite apertures 124a. This method may also provide a ratio of surface area to total aperture area. With an overall outer diameter 262 of 6,4 cm (2.5 inches) and six apertures 124 with diameters of 1,9 cm (0.75 inches or 3 / 4 of an inch) the total surface area of 114 is approximately 31,6 cm 2< (4.9 in 2< ). The sum of the aperture 124 areas is found by finding the area of a single aperture 124, which is 2,84 cm 2< (0.44 in 2< ) and multiplying this by six holes; which is 17 cm 2< (2.64 in 2< ). That is the total surface area of first surface 114 is approximately 31,6 cm 2< (4.91 in 2< ) minus 17 cm 2< (2.6 in 2< ), which is roughly 14,6 cm 2< (2.27 in 2< ). A total sum of aperture area to surface area is generally about 1:1. Stated otherwise, the ratio of aperture area is about 17 cm 2< (2.64 in 2< ) and the surface area of first surface 114 is 14,6 cm 2< (2.27 in 2< ), which is about a ratio of 1:1. While the ratio shown is about 1 to 1, it is contemplated that a sum of aperture area relative to surface area could be in the range of 0.5:1 to about 2:1.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 2C and FIGS. 12-14, second disc 38 is described in greater detail. Second disc 38, like first disc 36, is a generally rigid member that is cylindrically shaped and is disposed between first disc 36 and third disc 40. Second disc 38 includes a first surface 128 bounded by circumferential edge 130 spaced opposite a second surface 132 bounded by bottom circumferential edge 134. A cylindrical sidewall 136 extends between first and second surfaces 128, 132. Second disc 38 is stacked adjacent first disc 36 and is aligned along longitudinal axis 45. First and second surfaces 128, 132 are disposed substantially at right angles to longitudinal axis 45.

[0067] First and second surfaces 128, 132 of second disc 38 define a central aperture 139 and a plurality of satellite apertures 138 therein which extend through disc 38 from first surface 128 to second surface 132. Central aperture 139 has a central annular region 140 therein that is aligned along longitudinal axis 45 and is further aligned with central aperture 126 of first disc 36. Central annular region 140 and central aperture 126 thereby define a common hole or passageway through a portion of assembly 30. Disc 38 further defines two pin passageways 142 (FIGS. 13 and 14) integrally formed with annular region 140 and extending radially outwardly therefrom and from longitudinal axis 45. Pin passageways 142 are aligned with each other and are diametrically opposed to each other. Passageways 142 and a portion of annular region 140 create a narrow passage through second disc 38, the purpose of which will be later described herein. A chamfer 137 (FIG. 14) is defined in first surface 128 around at least a portion of central annular region 140 and pin passageways 142. Chamfer 137 angles inwardly from first surface 128 and toward central axis 45 and second surface 132.

[0068] As best seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, the two pin passageways 142 are separated from each other by two opposed projections which extend inwardly toward central annular region 140. Each projection includes a protrusion 251 and a protrusion 255 which are separated from each other by a pin receiving area 253. The two protrusions 251 are located opposite each other; the two protrusions 255 are located opposite each other; and the two pin receiving areas 253 are located opposite each other. FIG. 12 shows that the two protrusions 255 terminate substantially flush with second surface 132 and that the two protrusions 251 terminate a distance inwardly from second surface 132, thereby creating a gap between protrusions 251 and second surface 132. Pin receiving areas 253 are located a further distance inwardly from second surface 132 relative to protrusions 251.

[0069] When second disc 38 is stacked adjacent first disc 36, chamfers 137 on second disc 38 are located proximate the surface which defines washer receiving area 260 in first disc 36.

[0070] When second disc 38 is stacked adjacent third disc 40, the gap between protrusions 251 and second surface 132 together with a gap defined between pin ledges 165 and first surface 148 of third disc 40 creates a space within which pins 214 on selector rod 186 may travel during engagement and disengagement of second disc by selector rod 186. This space may be seen in FIG. 19.

[0071] Satellite apertures 138 are located eccentrically relative to central aperture 139 and longitudinal axis 45 and are positioned to align with apertures 124 in first disc 36 and thereby define a common hole, aperture or bore through a portion of assembly 30. Four of the apertures, depicted by reference number 138a, are uniform apertures which are similar to apertures 124. Two of the apertures, depicted by the reference number 138b, are defined by frustoconical sidewalls that taper inwardly towards the center of each respective aperture 138b from first surface 128 towards second surface 132. Apertures 138b are similarly configured to apertures 124b and are configured to receive a tapered plug 222 of one of resilient members 44 therein. Second disc 38 includes an upper edge 252 and a lower edge 254 of tapered aperture 138b. Upper edge 252 includes or has a larger diameter than lower edge 254, with the sidewall of aperture 138b tapering inwardly towards axis 50 from first surface 128 toward second surface 132.

[0072] Second disc 38 further defines a plurality of protrusions 144 located adjacent to circumferential edge 130 and which extend outwardly and forwardly therefrom. Protrusions 144 are spaced at intervals that are generally equivalent to the intervals between notches 129 on second surface 1 18 of first disc 36. Protrusions 144 are generally complementary to notches 129 and are receivable therein, thereby interlockingly engaging first disc 36 and second disc 38 together. Furthermore, when protrusions 144 nest in notches 129, the alignment of these two components ensures that apertures 124 in first disc 36 will align with apertures 138 in second disc 38. As indicated above, this arrangement creates a series of bores through first and second discs 36, 38 through which shafts 221 of resilient members 44 extend.

[0073] Second disc 38 further defines a plurality of recesses 146 in the second surface 132 thereof. Recesses 146 are spaced around the circumference of second surface 132 in a manner similar to protrusions 144. In other words, recesses 146 are spaced at regular intervals around the circumference of second surface 132 and are substantially in longitudinal alignment with protrusions 144.

[0074] Referring now to FIG. 2C and FIGS. 9-11, third disc 40 is described in greater detail. Third disc 40 includes a first surface 148 defined by a circumferential edge 150 spaced opposite a second surface 152 bounded by a circumferential edge 154. Third disc 40 is stacked between insert 90 and second disc 38 and in such a way that first and second surfaces 148, 152 of third disc 40 are generally at right angles to longitudinal axis 45. A cylindrical sidewall 156 extends between edges 150 and 154.

[0075] Third disc 40 is a generally cylindrical member generally similar to second disc 38 but with some minor differentiating features (which will be described hereafter).

[0076] Third disc 40 defines a central aperture 163 aligned along longitudinal axis 45. Central aperture 163 includes a small annular region 164 with two opposed passageways 166 extending radially outwardly from annular region 164. FIG. 10 shows that the two opposed passageways 166 generally resemble a hyperbola. The shape of arcuate pin receiving area 253 in second disc 38 is similar to the hyperbolic shape of hyperbolic passageway 166 in third plate 40 but pin receiving area 253 is rotatably shifted about thirty degrees relative to longitudinal axis 45.

[0077] Passageways 166 in third disc 40 are separated from each other by a pair of opposed projections which extend inwardly toward annular region 164. Each projection includes a protrusion 249 and a protrusion 250 which are separated from each other by a radially extending pin receiving area 248. The two protrusions 249 are aligned and opposite each other; the two protrusions 250 are aligned an opposite each other; and the two pin receiving areas 248 are aligned an opposite each other. As best seen in FIG. 9, both of the protrusions 249 terminate substantially flush with second surface 152 and both of the protrusions 250 terminate a distance inwardly from second surface 152 such that a gap is created between protrusions 250 and second surface 152. Pin receiving areas 248 each have a surface that is located a distance further inwardly from second surface 152 relative to protrusions 250.

[0078] It should also be noted that protrusions 250 on third disc 40 may be positioned about 60 degrees apart from protrusions 251 on second disc 38. Additionally, each pin receiving surface 253 on second disc 38 may be about 60 degrees wider than each pin receiving area 248 on third disc 40. This "misalignment" between these components on second and third discs 38, 40 aids in ensuring that additional rotation of collar 172 has to be undertaken to engage in order to additionally engage third disc 40 when second disc 38 is already captured by selector rod 186.

[0079] When third disc 40 is positioned adjacent sleeve 88 and insert 90, the gap between protrusions 250 and second surface 152, together with a gap defined between recessed pin receiving ledge 105 on sleeve 88 and end wall 102 thereof, creates a space within which pins 216 of selector rod 186 may travel when third disc 40 is being engaged or disengaged by selector rod 186 during use. This space can be seen in FIG. 19.

[0080] FIG. 11 shows that first surface 148 of third disc 40 defines a pair of opposed pin ledges 165 which are each recessed a distance inwardly from first surface 148. A pair of opposed chamfers 147 is defined in first surface 148 with each chamfer 147 extending between pin ledges 165. Chamfers 147 angle downwardly from first surface and inwardly toward central axis 45 and second surface 152. When third disc 40 is positioned adjacent second disc 38, chamfers 47 and pin ledges 165 on third disc 40 are positioned opposite pin-receiving area 253 on second disc 38.

[0081] Third disc 40 further defines a plurality of satellite apertures 158 therein. Six apertures 158 are arranged in an orbital satellite orientation eccentric relative to central aperture 163 and longitudinal axis 45. Satellite apertures 158 include four uniform apertures indicated by reference number 158a which extend from first surface 148 through to second surface 152; and two frustoconical or tapered apertures indicated by reference number 158b which are each configured to receive a tapered plug 222 at one end of one of resilient members 44. Referring still to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, tapered aperture 158b is defined between a top aperture edge 244 and a bottom aperture edge 246. Top aperture edge 244 diameter is larger than bottom aperture edge 246. Thus, aperture 158b tapers inwardly towards center axis 50.

[0082] Third disc 40 further defines a plurality of protrusions 160 circumferentially spaced about, adjacent and interrupting outer edge 150 thereof. Protrusions 160 extend outwardly from first surface 148. These protrusions 160 are complementary to recesses 146 defined in second surface 132 of second disc 38 and ensure a releasable mating relationship between second and third discs 38, 40. When second and third discs 38, 40 are so mated, the central apertures 139 and 163 are aligned with each other and the satellite aperture 138 and 158 are aligned with each other.

[0083] Third disc 40 further defines recesses 162 in second surface 152 thereof and interrupting outer circumference edge 154. Recesses 162 are shaped to be complementary to lobes 106 which extend outwardly from surface 102 of sleeve member 88. The mating relationship between lobes 106 on sleeve member 88 and recesses 162 on third disc 40 ensures the alignment of apertures 158 in third disc 40 with apertures 104 in sleeve member 88, and apertures 110 in insert 90.

[0084] A friction-reducing ring or a non-stick coating (such as ceramic or Teflon ®< ) may be applied directly to part or all of insert 90 and possibly to the first, second, and third discs 36, 38, and 40 provided in assembly 30. Alternatively, the entire insert 90 or discs 36, 38, 40 may be fabricated from this friction-reducing material. If the friction-reducing material is applied to only part of insert 90 or discs 36, 38, 40, it may be applied to a face which bounds and defines the apertures therein that are configured to receive resilient members 44 therethrough. The central apertures in insert 90 and discs 36, 38, 40 which do not receive resilient members 44 therethrough may be free of the friction-reducing material. The friction-reducing material may coat the face or other surfaces of insert 90 and / or discs 36, 38, 40 and or may be bonded thereto. Alternatively, the friction-reducing coating may be provided as a washer, or be provided on a washer that is inserted into or is located adjacent to the aperture. If a washer is utilized, then the surface of the washer which will contact resilient member 44 will include the friction-reducing material. The entire washer may be fabricated from the friction-reducing material. The friction-reducing material is utilized to materially reduce friction within assembly 30. Without insert 90, the expected life of resilient members 44 utilized in assembly 30 may be reduced by approximately 50%. Thus, inclusion of insert 90 greatly improves the useful life of resilient members 44.

[0085] Referring now to FIG. 19, resilient members 44 are threaded through the aligned satellite apertures of one or more of first disc 36, second disc 38, and third disc 40, through insert 90, sleeve 88, and are then secured to connection plate 42. Tapered plug 222 of each resilient member 44 in the assembled device is configured to fit within one of the substantially complementary-shaped frustoconical satellite apertures of the associated one of the first, second or third discs 36, 38, or 40. Tapered plug 222 of resilient member 44a fits within frustoconical aperture 124b of first disc 36. Tapered plug 222 of resilient member 44b fits within frustoconical aperture 124b of first disc 36. Tapered plug 222 of resilient member 44c fits within frustoconical aperture 138b of second disc 38. Tapered plug 222 of resilient member 44d fits within frustoconical aperture 138b of second disc 38. Tapered plug 222 of resilient member 44e fits within frustoconical aperture 158b of third disc 40. Tapered plug 222 of resilient member 44f fits within frustoconical tapered aperture 158b of third disc 40.

[0086] At this point it is noteworthy that the respective tapered apertures 124b, 138b, and 158b, do not line up with each other. This ensures that the tapered plug 222 on any resilient member 44 does not pass through two tapered holes in adjacent discs. Stated otherwise, tapered aperture 124b aligns with uniform aperture 138a and uniform aperture 158a. Uniform aperture 124a aligns with tapered aperture 138b and is aligned with uniform aperture 158a. Additionally uniform aperture 124a is aligned with uniform aperture 138a and is aligned with tapered aperture 158b.

[0087] As indicated previously herein, tubular housing includes a base member 78, sleeve 88 and collar 172. Referring to Figs. 1, 2D, 19, and 34, collar 172 may be a generally rigid, cup-shaped member. Collar 172 has a first end 174 and a second end 176 with a tubular wall 175 extending therebetween. First end 174 and tubular wall 175 bound and define a cavity 284 (Fig. 19). First end 174 is substantially continuous and is disposed opposite an opening to cavity 284, where the opening is defined by second end 176. A circumferential wall 286 (Fig. 34) on first end 174 defines a through-aperture 178 which is in communication with cavity 284. Aperture 178 is configured to receive part of adjustment assembly 170 (Fig. 2D) therethrough as will be described below. A pair of opposed receiving surfaces 180 are provided on an exterior surface of first end 174 adjacent aperture 178. One or more ribs 288 (FIGS. 19 and 34) are provided on first end 174 of collar 172. Ribs 288 extend radially outwardly from circumferential wall 286 and then for a distance along tubular wall 175. Ribs 288 are provided to strengthen top end 174 of collar 172. Collar 172 further includes an indicator 177 provided on an exterior surface tubular wall 175. Indicator 177 is selectively positionable to align with indicia 100 on sleeve member 88 when assembly 30 is used.

[0088] Adjustment assembly 170 is described in greater detail hereafter with reference being had to FIGS. 2D, 19 and 34. Adjustment assembly 170 includes an upper member 182, a compression coil spring 184, and a selector rod 186. Upper member 182 may be a generally U-shaped rigid member that has a first end 188 and a second end 190. An aperture 192 is defined in upper member 182 adjacent upper end 188. Aperture 192 is adapted to receive a carabiner clip or other connection device therethrough in order to secure resistance band assembly 30 to a workout accessory or other piece of exercise equipment. A pair of retention tabs 194 is provided on opposing side surfaces of upper member 182. Retention tabs 194 are biased outwardly by a spring 193 (FIG. 19) located within a bore of upper member 182. Retention tabs 194 are operatively engaged with spring 193 and are biased away from each other by spring 193. Tabs 194 may be depressed toward each other in the direction of arrow "D" (Fig. 34) to compress spring 193. Retention tabs 194 are moved toward each other when upper member 182 is to be passed through aperture 178 in collar 172. Once retention tabs 194 are released, tabs 194 will move away from each other under force of spring 193 returning to its original shape and position. When tabs 194 are depressed toward each other in the direction of arrow "D" (Fig. 34) and upper member 182 is moved in the direction of arrow "E", upper member 182 slides through aperture 178 in collar 172. Once the tabs 194 clear first end 174 on collar 172, the tabs 194 move in the opposite direction to arrow "D" and a portion of each tab 194 slides onto receiving areas 180. Retention tabs 194 thereby become engaged with receiving area 180 on collar 172 and prevent upper member 182 from being moved in the opposite direction of arrow "E" unless and until tabs 194 are depressed toward each other once again. It should also be noted that a shoulder 190a on upper member 182 engages an inner surface of first end 174 and prevents further movement of upper member 182 in the direction of arrow "D". Thus, retention tabs 194 detachably engage collar 172 and attachment assembly 170 together. Collar 172 may be quickly and easily removed from assembly 30 by depressing tabs 194 in the direction of arrow "D" and then sliding collar 172 off upper member 182 in the direction of arrow "E"; and may be quickly and easily reconnected therewith by reversing these steps. This quick disconnect / reconnect feature enables a user to quickly and easily access the resilient members 44 within the interior of assembly 30.

[0089] Upper member 182 further defines a hole 191 (FIG. 19) in second end 190 thereof. Hole 191 is provided for engagement of selector rod 186 with upper member 182. Referring to Figs. 2D, 19, and 34, selector rod 186 may be a generally rigid member that is cylindrical in shape and is oriented on upper member 182 so that rod 186 will extend along longitudinal axis 45 and be concentric therewith when assembly 30 is assembled for use.

[0090] While upper member 182 is shown and described herein as being a component that extends through aperture 178 in collar 172 and is of a relatively fixed orientation with respect to collar 172, it will be understood that upper member 182 may be differently configured. In particular, upper member 182 may be configured so that at least a portion of the upper member which extends outwardly from collar 172 is able to rotate or swivel about an axis extending along selector rod 186 (i.e., about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing). Still further, the rotatable or swiveling portion of the upper member may be able to rotate or swivel through 360°. Alternatively, the swiveling portion may rotate or swivel through less than 360° if that is considered desirable. This swiveling upper member is selectively securable to a workout accessory and thus may provide additional freedom of movement of that workout accessory during the performance of an exercise using assembly 30.

[0091] Selector rod 186 includes a first end 196 spaced apart from a rounded tip 198. An annular recess 210 is defined approximately midway along the length of selector rod 186. A plurality of disc-selector pins 212 extends radially outwardly from the outer circumferential surface of selector rod 186. Pins 212 are located between tip 198 and annular recess 210. Pins 212 are oriented generally at right angles to a longitudinal axis of selector rod 186 and will therefore also be oriented generally at right angles to longitudinal axis 45 of assembly 30. As illustrated in Fig. 2D, pins 212 include upper selector pins 214 and lower selector pins 216.

[0092] Upper and lower selector pins 214, 216 comprise either a single pin which extends through a hole in selector rod 186 and outwardly for a distance beyond the circumferential surface thereof in one direction or two portions of the single pin may extend outwardly in two opposite directions from rod 186. Alternatively, a pair of individual pin ends which are secured to selector rod 186 may extend outwardly from the circumferential surface, being aligned with each other and located diametrically opposite each other. Either configuration will be referred to herein as a "pin". Pins 214 are engaged with selector rod 186 and extend from the circumferential surface thereof along the same plane but in different directions. Pins 216 are positioned between tip 198 and upper pins 214. Pins 216 extend outwardly from a location where they are secured to selector rod 186. Pins 216 comprise a pair of pin ends which are aligned with each other and are located diametrically opposite each other. Pins 216 extend from the circumferential surface of selector rod 186 along the same plane but in different directions. Upper pins 214 and lower pins 216 are longitudinally aligned with each other and are spaced a distance apart from each other along selector rod 186. This distance is approximately equal to the thickness of second plate 38. (The thickness of second plate 38 is measured between first and second surface 128, 132.) All pins 212 are generally circular in cross-section and are shaped to be complementary to pin passageways 142 and 166 in second and third discs 38, 40; and additionally to a portion of the pin-receiving areas 248 in third disc 40. Pins 212 are rigidly affixed to selector rod 186 and move in unison therewith. Pins 212 extend generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis 45.

[0093] During fabrication of resistance band assembly 30 an E-clip 208 is engaged in annular recess 210. First end 196 of selector rod 186 is passed through an aperture in a washer 206 and is then inserted through central aperture 126 of first disc 36. Washer receiving area 260 of first disc 36 receives washer 206 when selector rod 186 extends through the center of washer 206 and through central aperture 126 of first disc 36. When so engaged, selector rod 186 will be able to rotate within central aperture 126 while first disc 36 remains relatively stationary relative to longitudinal axis 45.

[0094] After exiting central aperture 126 of first disc 36, first end 196 of selector rod 186 is inserted through the center of a coil spring 184 and is then inserted into hole 191 defined in second end 190 of upper member 82. A diametrically extending aperture 200 formed in rod 186 adjacent first end 196 is aligned with a similarly oriented hole 204 in upper member 182. A locking pin 202 is inserted through the aligned hole 204 and aperture 200. Thus, selector rod 186 secures first disc 36 and upper member 182 together. As shown in Fig. 34, when first disc 36 and upper member 182 are secured together, spring 184 is located between first surface 1 14 of first disc 36 and second end 190 of upper member 182.

[0095] It should be noted that prior to inserting first end 196 of selector rod 186 through central aperture 126 of first disc 36, first end 196 may be inserted through the aligned central apertures 163 and 139 of third and second discs 40, 38, respectively. If this is the case, then third disc 40 and second disc 38 must be oriented so that pins 212 on selector rod 186 pass through the pin passageways 166 and 142, respectively.

[0096] Alternatively, after being secured to first disc 36, second end 198 of selector rod 186 may be passed through the central aperture 139 and pin passageways 142 of second disc 38 and then through central aperture 163 and pin passageways 166 of third disc 40. In this instance, selector rod 186 extends outwardly beyond washer-receiving surface 261 of first disc 36 and through annular region 140 and annular region 164 of second and third discs 38, 40 respectively. Passageways 142 and a portion of annular region 140 create a narrow passage through second disc 38 and through which pins 212 on selector rod 186 may pass. Pin passageways 142 are shaped complementary to pins 212 on selector rod 186. It will be understood that selector rod 186 has to be in a fairly precise orientation relative to passageways 142 in order for pins 212 to pass through said pin passageways 142. (It should be further noted that if only a single pin 212 extends outwardly in only one direction from selector rod 186 then only one passageway 142 will be provided in second disc 38.) Third disc 40 includes pin ledge 165 adjacent annular region 164 for receiving upper pins 214 of selector rod 186 during rotation of collar 172. Passageways 166 in third disc 40 permit rotation of pins 216 extending radially from selector rod 186 therethrough even when rotated within a certain angle of rotation, as defined by the hyperbolic passageway. Passageways 166 on third disc 40, protrusions 249, 250 and pin receiving area 248 cooperate together to interact with bottom pins 216 to engage third disc 40 when selected by a user. When third disc 40 is not selected by a user, bottom pins 216 pass through passageways 166 and are rotatable within the arc length defined by hyperbolic shape of the passageway.

[0097] As indicated above and as shown in FIG. 19, selector rod 186 is configured to extend through the aligned central apertures 126 of first disc 36, 139 of second disc 38, and 63 of third disc 40. Spring 184 is positioned around selector rod 186 and is located between second end 190 of upper member 182 and first surface 1 14 of first disc 36. Second end 190 of upper member 182 acts as a first spring seat and first surface 1 14 of first disc 36 acts as a second spring seat for spring 184. Spring 184 is compressible along the longitudinal axis 45 during operation of assembly 30. The above-described configuration provides a receiving area in cavity 284 defined in collar 172 for the first end 218 of resilient members 44 to rest. This can be seen in Fig. 19.

[0098] Selector rod 186 further extends through central aperture 108 of insert 90 and into the rounded, inverted cone shape of central aperture 232 of sleeve member 88. In particular, the central aperture 232 is configured to receive spherical tip 198 of selector rod 186 therein. Tip 198, when contacting inverted rounded cone surface of aperture 232, permits a smooth transition of tip 198 through central aperture 232. Pin receiving ledge 105 (FIG. 6) on sleeve 88 is provided to receive bottom pins 216 of selector rod 186 during rotation of selector rod 186, particularly when third disc 40 is being engaged with selector rod 186 or disengaged therefrom, as will be further described herein. Chamfers 137 on second disc 38 and 147 on third disc 40 aid in guiding the rounded tip 198 of selector rod 186 into the adjacent central apertures 139 and 163, respectively, after first attachment assembly 33 has been moved from an at rest position (shown in Fig. 1) to a use position (shown in Fig. 29) and then back to the at rest position.

[0099] Turning back now to collar 172 as shown in FIG. 19; second end 176 of collar 172 terminates closely adjacent a first edge 290 of sleeve member 88 when assembly 30 is assembled. A small gap is defined between second end 176 of collar 172 and first edge 290 of sleeve member 88. This gap is sufficient to permit collar 172 to rotate with upper member 182 while allowing sleeve 88 to stay relatively stationary with respect to longitudinal axis 45. Still referring to FIG. 19, second edge 92 of sleeve member 88 contacts a lip 292 on first end 80 of base member 78 when tabs 86 are inserted through apertures 98 defined in sleeve member 88. Because first end 80 of base member 78 is secured to sleeve member 88 via tabs 86, base member 78 remains stationary with sleeve member 88 relative to longitudinal axis 45 when collar 172 is rotated about longitudinal axis 45. When assembly 30 is assembled, the tip 198 of selector rod 186 extends outwardly beyond second surface 152 of third disc 40 and beyond second end 176 of collar 172 and first edge 290 of sleeve 88. Tip 198 of selector rod terminates before second edge 92 of sleeve member 88 and first edge 292 of base member 78.

[0100] The components of assembly 30 depicted FIG. 18 are all generally affixed together and generally do not rotate about longitudinal axis 45 when assembly 30 is subjected to extension forces on resilient members 44 during use. Bulbous members 224 are releasably secured to connection plate 42 (FIG. 19) and are selectively detachable therefrom if base member 78 is released from its engagement with sleeve member 88. This disengagement of base member 78 from sleeve member 88 would occur if a user was customizing the resistance band assembly 30 or needed to replace a damaged resilient member 44.

[0101] With primary reference to FIG. 19, the cross-sectional view of first end 32 is depicted with first end 32 oriented in a first direction. The following description will be made with the understanding that first end 32 is facing in this first direction, however, the directional orientation used in this description will be understood to change relative to any subsequent changes in the orientation of first end 32.

[0102] In an assembled position, first end 32 facing in the first direction, retention tabs 194 extend outwardly away from each other a distance greater than the diameter of aperture 178. Tabs 194 therefore make contact with landing surfaces 180 to lock collar 172 in place. This locking relationship ensures that collar 172 does not slide in the first direction during use of assembly 30 in the performance of an exercise movement. As previously discussed herein, collar 172 is an inverted cuplike member defining a cavity 284 configured to house selector rod 186, portions of resilient members 44, and the three disc plates 36, 38, and 40. As depicted in FIG. 20, passageways 166 in third disc 40 permit pin 216 to pass therethrough when the third disc 40 is not selected by a user. FIG. 20 shows a configuration where selector rod 186 is in a position where the rod 186 only lifts first disc 36 via washer 206 and clip 208 if first attachment assembly 33 is moved away from first end 32 of the tubular housing. Both of the second disc 38 and third disc 40 are not engaged by selector rod 186 when in the position illustrated in FIG. 20. In this position, selector rod 186 passes through annular region 164 and resilient members 44a and 44b are stretched through cylindrical apertures 158a.

[0103] As depicted in FIG. 21, selector rod 186 and pins 214 are oriented in the same longitudinal plane as the orientation of pins 216 in FIG. 20. In this configuration, pins 214 pass through pin passageways 142 in second disc 38 (FIG. 2C) such that the second disc 38 is not engaged with rod 186.

[0104] As depicted in FIG. 22, selector rod 186 is engaged with the bottom of first disc 36 by E-clip 208 and washer 206. It should be noted that resilient members 44f and 44e are not shown in the cross-section taken along line 22-22 in FIG. 19 because the tapered plugs 222 of resilient members 44C and 44e only extend in the first direction from second end to third disc 40.

[0105] Reference will now be made to the operation of assembly 30. To complete an exercise, the user has an option of selectively choosing a desired resistance value based on the number of resilient members 44a-f engaged in a pulling motion. In operation and with reference to FIG. 24 and FIG. 25, the user ensures the indicator 177 on collar 172 aligns with one chevron indicia 100 on sleeve member 88. This advises the user that only first disc 36 is selected with resilient members 44a and 44b connected thereto. Thus, the lowest level of resistance will be applied by assembly 30 to the exercise motion. An exemplary exercise structure is disclosed in the parent application, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 836,359, filed March 15, 2013, wholly owned by the applicant and entitled "STRENGTH TRAINING AND STRETCHING SYSTEM", the entire specification of which is hereby incorporated by reference as if fully written herein. An additional exemplary exercise structure is further disclosed in FIGS. 37-46 herein.

[0106] Hooks 56, 58 on second attachment assembly 35 of assembly 30 enable attachment of assembly 30 to an attachment member 578 on the separate exercise apparatus 510 (Fig. 37). This is accomplished by sliding attachment member 578 through the gap 302 between hooks 56, 58 and manipulating hooks 56, 58 in a circular motion about longitudinal axis 45 to selectively latch hooks 56, 58 to the attachment member 578 on the exercise apparatus. Hooks 56, 58 may, alternatively, attach to an adapter engaged with attachment member 578.

[0107] The user may impart an exercise motion to assembly 30 (which is now engaged to the exercise structure via attachment member 578) by pulling on first attachment assembly 33 in some way. This is most easily accomplished by engaging some type of workout accessory with first attachment assembly 33 at first end 32 of assembly 30. One such workout accessory 400 is illustrated engaged with first attachment assembly 33 in FIG. 35. When the user pulls on handle 400 to move the same in a direction longitudinally away from assembly 30, first attachment assembly 33, specifically engagement member 182, is caused to move in that longitudinal direction, depicted by arrow "C" (FIG. 33). As indicated previously, engagement member 182 is secured to collar 172 by tabs 94. Engagement member 182 is further secured at all times to first disc 36 and thereby to any resilient members 44 which are engaged with first disc 36 by their tapered ends 222 being wedged in the frustoconical apertures 124b defined therein. A resilient member resistance force vector associated with the resilient members 44 engaged with first disc 36 when stretched during an exercise movement occurs in a direction opposite that of arrow "C". The amount of force associated with first disc 36 during performance of the exercise movement is negligible relative to the resilient member resistance force vector. Stated otherwise, the actual weight or mass of first disc 36 provides very little resistive force to the exercise movement; most all of the resistive force to the exercise is provided by resilient members 44 engaged with first disc 36. (Similarly, it should be noted that the second and third discs 38, 40 are also of negligible or insubstantial weight / mass and do not provide any significant resistive force to the exercise performed with assembly 30. It is only the resistive force provided by stretching the resilient members 44 associated with second and third discs 38, 40 which generates the resistive force to any performed exercise.)

[0108] In order for only first disc 36 to be engaged with selector rod 186 and thereby with first attachment assembly 33, the indicator 177 on collar 172 must be aligned with the single chevron indicia 100 on sleeve 88. This position is illustrated in Fig. 1. When selector rod 186 is only engaged with first disc 30, pins 214 on selector rod 186 sit in pin passageways 142 of second disc 38 and pins 216 sit in passageways 166 of third disc. Thus, neither of second disc 38 and third disc 40 is operatively engaged with selector rod 186. Since pin passageways 142 are bounded on either side by one of protrusions 251 and one of protrusions 255, selector rod 186 is prevented from rotation in the clockwise direction (when viewed from below as in FIG. 21 ) by protrusions 255 preventing pins 214 from rotating in the clockwise direction. Furthermore, selector rod 186 is prevented from rotating in the counterclockwise direction by protrusions 251 preventing pins 214 from rotating in the counterclockwise direction.

[0109] If it is desired to increase the resistance level applied by assembly 30, then first attachment assembly 33 must be returned to the at rest position shown in Figs. 1 or 26. Chamfer 137 (Fig. 14) in first surface 128 of second disc 38 is provided to aid in guiding second end 198 of selector rod 186 into central aperture 139 when first attachment assembly 33 returns to its "at rest" position during the performance of an exercise using resistance band assembly 30 or when the resistance level is to be changed. Similarly, chamfer 147 (Fig. 11) in first surface 148 of third disc 40 aids in guiding second end 198 of selector rod 186 into central aperture 163 of third disc 40 when first attachment assembly 33 is returning to its rest position.

[0110] The user must then engage at least the second disc 38 as well as first disc 36 with selector rod 186. This is accomplished by the user grasping collar 172 and rotating the same in the direction indicated by arrow "B" (Fig. 26) to the location shown in Fig. 27. Because collar 172 is fixedly secured to engagement member 182 and thereby to selector rod 186, when collar is rotated in the direction indicated by arrow "B", then selector rod 186 will rotate within the bore of the tubular housing in the direction of arrow "B". This rotation of selector rod 186 causes the pins 214 and 216 to rotate in unison therewith.

[0111] If the user rotates collar 172 until indicator 177 on collar 172 moves into alignment with the two chevron indicia 100 on sleeve 88, then the user is selecting a second level of resistance. FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 are bottom views of second disc 38 and third disc 40, respectively, showing the positioning of the components associated with the rotational movement depicted in FIG. 26. Aligning indicator 177 with the two chevron indicia 100 causes collar 172 to move slightly in the direction of arrow "A" (FIG. 26) when the pins 214 move in the direction of arrow "B" (FIG. 27) within the bore of assembly 30, out of pin passageways 142 and over recessed protrusions 251. Pins 214 slide over the recessed protrusions 251 and onto the further recessed pin receiving areas 253. This causes second disc 38 to be captured by selector rod 186. Second disc 38 is thus selected and engaged with selector rod 186. When the indicator 177 and indicia 100 are aligned, the user will feel and hear a "click" as selector rod 186 engages second disc 38. These "clicking" feelings and sounds will be physically experienced by the user whenever a disc is added or dropped during rotation of collar 172. This helps the user to know when they have actually added or removed resistance.

[0112] FIG. 28 shows the position of pins 216 when second disc 38 is engaged by selector rod 186. Pins 216 remain in passageways 166 in third disc 40 and are the third disc 40 is thus not engaged with selector rod 186. Clockwise rotation of selector rod 186 is prevented by pins 214 being prevented from rotating clockwise because of their engagement with protrusions 255 on second disc 38. Additionally, the rotation of selector rod 186 in a counterclockwise direction is prevented by protrusions 250 on the third disc 40 preventing pins 216 from moving in a counterclockwise direction.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 29, when resistance band assembly 30 is in this second position with both the first and second discs 38, 40 engaged with selector rod 186, first attachment assembly 33 may be pulled longitudinally outwardly from second end 32 of the tubular housing in the direction of arrow "C" during the performance of an exercise. When the second disc 38 is selected, resilient members 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d are stretched as first attachment assembly 33 moves in the direction of arrow "C" while resilient members 43e and 43f, which are attached to third disc 40, are not stretched. The multiple resilient members provided an increased resistive force to the pulling motion.

[0114] FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 show enlarged bottom views of second disc 38 and third disc 40, respectively, associated with the indicia alignment of FIG. 30. As depicted in FIG. 30, if the user desires to select an even greater resistive force, it is necessary to return first attachment assembly 33 to the at rest position. The user then rotates collar 172 to align indicator 177 on collar 172 with the three chevron indicia 100 on sleeve 88. This will cause third disc 40 to be captured by pins 216 of selector rod 186.

[0115] When collar 172 is rotated into this position and as shown in FIG. 32, pins 216 move through pin passageways 166 on third disc 40 and rotate until the pins 216 slide over the recessed protrusions 250 and into pin receiving areas 248. FIG. 31 shows that the rotation of collar 72 causes pins 214 to move from a first region 253a of pin receiving area 253 to a second region 253b thereof. Second disc 38 thus remains engaged with selector rod 186. Pin receiving area 253 in second disc 38 is thus configured to contact upper pins 214 on selector rod 186 when the second disc 38 is selected or when third disc 40 is selected. If only the first disc 36 is selected, both sets of pins 214, 216 will pass through pin passageway 142 during the use of assembly 30.

[0116] When collar 172 is in this third position, selector rod 186 is prevented from clockwise rotation by pin 216 abutting protrusion 250 on third disc 40; and selector rod is prevented from rotating counterclockwise by pins 216 abutting protrusions 249 on third disc 40. At this point, third disc is captured by selector rod 186 and all of the first, second and third discs 36, 38 40 are engaged with first attachment assembly 33 and the resistance provided by assembly 30 will involve the need to stretch all of resilient member 44a-44f within assembly 30.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 2E there is shown an alternative embodiment of adjustment assembly 170 that is used in conjunction with an alternative embodiment of first disc 36 shown in FIGS. 16A and 22A and described hereafter. The alternative embodiment of adjustment assembly 170 includes third pins 213 which are located between upper pins 214 and first end 196 of selector rod 186. Third pins 213 are spaced longitudinally from pins 214 and 216. Pins 213, 214, 216 may all be aligned in the same plane as each other along selector rod 186. This embodiment of selector rod 186 does not include annular recess 210 and E-clip 208 and washer 206 are omitted as well. Thus, in this embodiment, a dedicated pin is provided on selector rod 186 for each of the first, second and third discs 36, 38, 40. When selector rod 186 is rotated to engage first disc 36, third pins 213 will be positioned such that first disc 36 and selector rod 186 will move in unison away from second and third discs 38, 40. When selector rod 186 is rotated to engage second disc 38, third pins 213 will engage first disc 36 and pins 214 will engage second disc 38. When selector rod 186 is rotated to engage third disc 40, third pins 213 will engage first disc 36, pins 214 will engage second disc 38 and pins 216 will engage third disc 40. Thus, none of the discs 36, 38, 40 is passively engaged with selector rod 186.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 16A and 24A there is shown the alternative embodiment of the first disc 36 with which the alternative selector rod is engageable. The alternative embodiment of the first disc is substantially identical to the first disc illustrated in FIGS. 5-17 except that the washer-receiving surface 261 is replaced with a surface 263 that is concentric with central aperture 126. Surface 263 defines a plurality of radial troughs 265 which extend outwardly from central aperture 126 and generally toward sidewall 122. Troughs 265 are shallow semi-circular depressions in surface 263. The alternative embodiment of first disc 36 includes three troughs 265 which each extend along a diameter of the circular surface 263. Each of the three troughs is separated into two separate portions by central aperture 126 so that it appears that six troughs are provided within surface 263. Troughs 265 are oriented at about 60° relative to each other. It will be understood that a different number of troughs 265 disposed at a different angle relative to each other could be provided in the alternative first disc 36.

[0119] When the alternative selector rod 186 is inserted through central aperture 126 of the alternative first disc 36, pins 213 will enter the space defined by washer receiving area 260 (Fig. 19) and first surface 1 18 of second disc 38. It should be remembered when looking at Fig. 19, that the figure is depicting the original embodiment of the first disc and the original selector rod. Since E-clip 208 and washer 206 are omitted from the alternative adjustment assembly 170, the washer receiving area 260 shown in Fig. 19 will only have selector rod 186 passing through it.

[0120] Pins 213 on selector rod 186 are located adjacent surface 263 (FIG. 22A). When collar 172 is rotated to the first position (FIG. 1 ) to select and engage only alternative first disc 36, pins 213 will move in a first direction, traveling across surface 263 and become seated in a first trough 265 (i.e., in two aligned and opposed portions of the first trough). The adjacent sections of surface 263 are effectively raised relative to the first trough and, consequently, rotation of selector rod 186 in either a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction is substantially prevented because rotation of pins 213 is stopped by these raised sections of surface 263.

[0121] If collar 172 is rotated to the second position, pins 213 will move in the first direction out of the first trough 265 and across the adjacent section of surface 263 (in the first direction) and pins 213 will then drop into the second trough 265 (i.e., second set of opposed and aligned trough portions). Again, the sections of surface 263 are raised relative to the second trough 265 and thus rotation of pins 213 and therefore of selector rod 186 is substantially prevented in each of a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. When collar 272 is in this second position, the pins 214 will have moved, as previously described, to cause second disc 38 to be captured by the alternative selector rod 186. The first and second discs 36, 38 are therefore engaged with the alternative selector rod and the resilient members 44 engaged with those discs will therefore provide an additional level of resistive force to any exercise.

[0122] If collar 172 is rotated into the third position, pins 213 will move out of the second trough 265, across the next adjacent surface 263 (in the first direction) and subsequently become seated in the third trough 265 (i.e., third set of opposed an aligned trough portions). Again, the next sections of surface 263 are raised relative to the third trough 265. Consequently, the rotation of pins 213 and therefore of selector rod 186 is substantially prevented in each of a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. When collar 272 is in this third position, the pins 214 will have moved, as previously described, to cause second disc 38 to be captured, and the pins 216 will have moved as previous described, to cause third disc 40 to be captured by the alternative selector rod 186. Thus all three discs are engaged with the alternative selector rod 186 and the resilient members 44 engaged therewith provide the maximum level of resistive force.

[0123] Rotating collar 172 in the opposite direction to that described above will cause selector rod 186 and therefore pins 213 to travel in a direction opposite to the first direction and thereby disengage one or more of the captured discs.

[0124] In operation and with respect to FIG. 34, there may be instances in which it is desirable to remove first attachment assembly 33. If, for example, it is desired to replace any component of the first attachment assembly 33 because of damage to that component, then retention tabs 194 are depressed inwardly in the direction of arrow "D" (Fig. 34). This permits collar 172 to be disengaged from upper member 182. At this point, upper member 182 is still engaged with selector rod 186 and first, second, and third discs 36, 38, 40. Resilient members 44 still extend from connection plate 42, through insert 90, through third disc 40, second disc 38, and first disc 36. In order to disengage selector rod 186 from the third and second discs 40, 38, the rod 186 needs to be rotated to permit pins 212 to slide out of the associated central apertures. In order to disengage first disc 36 from selector rod 186, clip 208 must first be disengaged. Any component part on upper member 182 or selector rod 186 may then be removed and replaced and then the assembly 30 may be reassembled by reversing these steps.

[0125] In other instances, it may be desirable to change or replace one or more resilient members 44. For example, a user may desire to customize his or her resistance band assembly 30 by personally selecting the resilient members 44 utilized therein. The user may insert one or more resilient members which have thinner shafts 221 to provide different resistive forces.

[0126] A resilient member 44 with a thinner shaft 221 could provide less resistive force and a resilient member with a thicker shaft 221 could provide more resistive force.

[0127] Thus, if it was needful or desirable to change one or more resilient members, the user will need to disengage the specific resilient member from connection plate 42 and from the various discs, 36, 38, 40. In order to gain access to connection plate 42, the user will disengage first attachment assembly 33 from collar 172 by depressing tabs 194. Collar 172 will then be removed so that the user has access to discs 36, 38, 40. The user is then able to access the resilient band 44 which he or she wishes to replace and is also able to disengage base member 78 from sleeve 88. This is accomplished by pinching tabs 86 toward each other and so that the tabs 86 slide into the bore of the housing. As soon as tabs 86 are clear of the apertures 98 in sleeve 88, base member 78 and sleeve 88 may be separated from each other. Base member 78 may be moved in the direction of arrow "N" (Fig. 18) until the user is able to gain access to the bulbous member 224 of resilient member 44 it is desired to replace. Bulbous member 224 is pulled radially outwardly until resilient member 44 is no longer engaged with connection plate 42. The user will push resilient member 44 in the opposite direction to arrow "N" and out of the disc resilient member 44 is terminated in and then through the aligned apertures in the other discs; and continues this motion until bulbous member 224 is pulled out of the assembly. The replacement resilient member is then inserted into the resistance band assembly by reversing the aforementioned steps. If the resilient member's shaft 221 is thinner and therefore the tapered end 222 therein is smaller than the apertures in the respective first, second, or third discs, then an aperture adjustment member 223 will be engaged around the tapered end 222 prior to inserting the bulbous end 224 of the replacement resilient member through the apertures in the discs. The size of the aperture adjustment member 223 is selected to ensure that the combination of the aperture adjustment member 223 and tapered end 222 will not pass through the tapered aperture in the necessary first, second, or third disc 36, 38, 40. More than one resilient member 44 may be changed out in this fashion. When all of the desired resilient members 44 are engaged between connection plate 42, insert 90, sleeve 88, and discs 40, 38, 36 then base member 78 is moved in the opposite direction of arrow "N" (Fig. 18) until the spring-biased tabs 86 pop back through apertures 98 in sleeve 88. Collar 172 and collar 172 are then reengaged with the rest of the device. Tabs 194 pass through aperture 178 in collar 172. Resistance band assembly 30 is then ready for use once again.

[0128] In operation and with reference to FIG. 35, an auxiliary workout accessory such as auxiliary handle 400 may be connected to upper member 182 through aperture 192 via an intermediate member such as carabiner 402. In the instance illustrated in FIG. 35, auxiliary handle 400 is designed to rotate about each "X", "Y", and "Z" axis. For the auxiliary handle 400 depicted in FIG. 35, rotational arrow "X" is associated with the roll about a longitudinal axis. Rotational arrow "Y" is associated with the pitch rotating about a transverse axis and rotational arrow Z is associated with the yaw rotation about a vertical axis. This auxiliary handle 400 coupled via a connecting member or carabiner 402 to upper member 182 ensures that substantially linear forces along longitudinal axis "X" are imparted through assembly 30 during the exercise motion. Also depicted in FIG. 35 is attachment member 578 for attaching hooks 56, 58 thereto. It will be understood that instead of a rotatable handle 400, a swivel carabiner could be utilized instead of carabiner 402. It will further be understood that any one of a number of workout accessories, such as workout bars or ropes may be engaged with upper member 182.

[0129] In operation and with reference to attaching assembly 30 to an exercise structure, an aspect of an embodiment for a method may include the steps of providing an attachment member 578 attached to an exercise structure, wherein the ring defines an aperture; affecting relative movement of the attachment member 578, the movement relative to an assembly 30 defining a gap 302 between two inverted hooks 56, 58 including a free end on each hook; positioning the attachment member 578 in the gap 302 beneath two ends of the hooks 56, 58; affecting a relative rotation of the attachment member 578, which is about 90 degrees, relative to the two hooks 56, 58 such that the attachment member 578 is beneath a hook passageway 418 defined by a downwardly facing concave surface of both hooks 56, 58; and engaging the attachment member 578 with the concave surface of both hooks 56, 58.

[0130] In operation and with reference to attaching assembly 30 to an exercise structure, another method may include the steps of providing an assembly 30 including two inverted hooks 56, 58 spaced apart and defining a vertical gap 302 therebetween, defining a transverse hook passageway 418 beneath arcuate portions 410, 412 on the hooks 56, 58; and moving hooks 56, 58 in a first direction to position an attachment member 578 attached to a separate exercise structure in the vertical gap 302. The method may further include revolving hooks 56, 58 about a longitudinal axis 45; and, when this step of revolving the hooks 56, 58 about the longitudinal axis is accomplished, rotating assembly 30 about its longitudinal axis 45 through about 90 degrees. Then, hooks 56, 58 are moved in a second direction opposite that of first direction so as to engage the arcuate portion 410, 412 of the hooks with the attachment member 578 such that the attachment member 578 extends through the transverse passageway 418.

[0131] While assembly 30 has been described as having a particular configuration in the previous paragraphs, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that first, second, and third discs 36, 38, 40 may be differently configured to what has been illustrated and described herein. For example, instead of first, second and third discs 36, 38, 40 being generally circular when viewed from above, these discs might be oval or elliptical or any other desired shape. It will also be understood that resilient members 44 may be differently configured and that the holes and apertures defined in the discs 36, 38, 40 may be differently placed and shaped.

[0132] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that any desired number of discs may be provided in the resistance band assembly. Additionally, while the discs described herein are illustrated as having six holes therein, it will be understood that the discs utilized in the resistance band assembly may include less than six holes or more than six holes. The number of actual resilient bands utilized in the resistance band assembly will be complementary to the number of holes in the discs.

[0133] While the sample embodiment of band assembly 30 has been illustrated and described herein as having hook-type connectors thereon, it should be understood that other types of connectors may be utilized on band assembly 30. For example, male / female type connectors could be provided on band assembly 30 and on workout accessories to be used in conjunction therewith or on an exercise structure which band assembly 30 may be secured to in order to perform exercises. Other connectors may be ball and socket type connectors.

[0134] Additionally, one having ordinary skill in the art would understand that resilient members 44 may be replaceable with other similarly dimensioned elastic bands, such as a bungee-type cord that can attach to the discs and connection plate.

[0135] It will further be understood that if the discs 36, 38, 40 were fabricated to be thicker than illustrated herein so that the end termination of resilient member 44 did not protrude beyond the first surface of the associated disc, the assembly could be fabricated to include fewer holes in some of the discs. For example, first disc 36 could be fabricated to include only two apertures. In this scenario, the assembly sequence would be to put the third disc 40 into bore 84 of base member 78, pass two resilient members 44 through third disc 40 (third disc 40 would still have six apertures defined therein), then install second disc 38 (having only four apertures therein), and pass two resilient members 44 therethrough; and then insert first disc 36 into base member 78 and pass two resilient members 44 therethrough. During actual use of the sample embodiment disclosed herein, all six resilient members pass through third disc 40, only four resilient members 44 pass through second disc 38, and only two resilient members 44 pass through first disc 36.

[0136] While resistance band assembly 30 has been described and illustrated herein as including first, second, and third discs 36, 38, 40 and six resilient members 44a-f, it will be understood that assembly 30 may be provided with just one single disc therein with one or more resilient members engaged therewith; or two discs with one or more resilient members engaged therewith; or more than three discs with one or more resilient members engaged therewith. Any combination of discs and resilient members associated therewith may be utilized to generate a desired resistance level to movement of first attachment assembly 33 away from first end 80 of base member 78.

[0137] The components of exercise band resistance assembly 30 as herein described above permit a user to exercise by stretching some or all of resilient members 44. When resilient members are being selectively stretched, substantially all of the resistive force applied to the exercise results from the bands, not the discs 36, 38, 40 to which the bands are connected. Additionally, selector rod 186 and the pins 212 may pass through center apertures in some of the discs when those discs closer to second end 34 are not selected. When pins 214 select second disc 38, elements connected to selector rod 186 contact the second surfaces 118, 132 of both first disc 36 and second disc 38. When third disc 40 is selected, clip 210 contacts the bottom of first disc 36, pins 214 contact the second surface 132 of second disc 38 and pins 216 contact the second surface 152 of third disc 40.

[0138] The resistance that may be provided by resistance band assembly 30 is selectively variable. Thus, a user may configure resistance band assembly 30 to provide a lower resistance, an intermediate resistance or a higher resistance. This is accomplished by engaging one or more resilient members 44a-f with selector rod 186 when the resilient members are engaged with connection plate 42. The engagement of the second set of resistance bands (44c and 44d) provides a second resistance level to the resistance band assembly and the second resistance level is greater than the first resistance level.

Claims

1. A resilient member (44) for a resistance band assembly which is used to apply resistance during the performance of an exercise, said resilient member (44) comprising: an elongate and resilient shaft (221) having a diameter, a first end (218) and a second end (220) longitudinally opposite the first end (218); a first enlarged area provided adjacent the first end (218); a second enlarged area provided adjacent the second end; and a length limiting element (300) provided within the shaft (221) and operable to prevent resilient member (44) from being overstretched, characterized in that the first enlarged area comprises a plug (222) having a region having a diameter greater than the diameter of the elongate and resilient shaft (221), that the second enlarged area comprises a bulbous member (224) having a region having a diameter greater than the diameter of the elongate and resilient shaft (221), that the plug (222) is a different size than the bulbous member (224), and that the plug (222) and the bulbous member (224) are stretchably engaged and secured to the shaft (221) or are integrally formed with the shaft (221).

2. The resilient member (44) of claim 1, wherein the elongate and resilient shaft (221) comprises a hollow interior that defines a longitudinal lumen (301) that extends from the first end (218) to the second end (220).

3. The resilient member (44) of claim 2, wherein the limiting element (300) extends through the lumen (301) and is connected to the first end (218) and the second end (220) of the elongate and resilient shaft (221).

4. The resilient member of any of the previous claims, having a generally conical, frustoconical or tapered plug (222).

5. The resilient member (44) of claim 4, wherein the plug (222) is releasably secured within the lumen (301).

6. The resilient member (44) of any of the previous claims, wherein the bulbous member (224) is a tapered plug or a rigid spherical member.

7. The resilient member (44) of any of the previous claims, wherein the bulbous member (224) is releasably secured within the lumen (301).

8. The resilient member (44) of any of the previous claims, wherein the bulbous member (224) is integrally formed with the elongate and resilient shaft (221).

9. The resilient member (44) of any of the previous claims, wherein the plug (222) is a different shape than the bulbous member (224).

10. The resilient member (44) of any of the previous claim, wherein the limiting element (300) is connected to the plug (222) at the first end (218) and to the bulbous member (224) at the second end (220).

11. The resilient member (44) of claim 1, wherein the limiting element (300) has a length longer than the elongate and resilient shaft (221) when said elongate and resilient shaft (221) is in a non-stretched state.