TRAINING EQUIPMENT

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a training device. It finds applications in particular for professional sports training, for recreational sports and in the context of muscular or functional rehabilitation. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] The very complete use of the body's muscles during cross-country skiing makes it a very popular activity as part of sports training or as part of muscular rehabilitation.

[0003] The prior art knows several sports training devices imitating the movements associated with cross-country skiing. Documents US5203751 A and FR3017303 A1 describe this type of device.

[0004] In particular, the prior art knows the apparatus described by document FR 3064923. This apparatus is long and bulky, in particular to allow a sufficiently long stroke length of the poles which are fixed to a means mobile in translation on a track close to the ground on which the apparatus rests. In addition, this apparatus does not allow continuous and effective resistance to movement over the entire length of the movement of the poles. In particular, in this document, the poles are positioned on wheeled trolleys which are therefore driven towards the low point of the track supporting them. STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks.

[0006] To this end, the present invention relates to a training device, which comprises: a chassis comprising two central tracks and at least one lateral track positioned on either side of the two central tracks, for each central track, a pad sliding on this central track, at least one slider sliding on a lateral track and for at least one element among a slider and / or at least one pad, friction means configured to induce a dynamic friction force on the track on which said element slides.

[0007] Thanks to these provisions, the training device induces a sensation similar to that of cross-country skiing. In addition, depending on the friction force, the efforts required to move the skates and / or sliders can be adapted since the dynamic friction force is directly proportional to the weight supported. In addition, the resistance to movement by friction is simple to implement and is continuous and effective over the entire length of the movement of the poles.

[0008] According to the invention, the friction means comprise at least one removable weight.

[0009] Thanks to these provisions, at least one weight being removable, the total weight supported by the element is adjustable. Thus, adding, removing or substituting weights modifies the dynamic friction force. Thus, the intensity of the exercise can be adapted to the user's needs.

[0010] In embodiments, the friction means comprise magnetic braking means.

[0011] Thanks to these features, there is no need to handle weights at the risk of injuring the user. In addition, the friction force can be adjusted more easily and quickly to adapt the intensity of the exercise to the user's needs.

[0012] In embodiments, at least a portion of at least one side track is raised relative to the center tracks.

[0013] Thanks to these provisions, the device makes it possible to shorten the length of the poles while maintaining a range of movement of the user's arms corresponding to that of cross-country skiing. The size of the training device which is the subject of the invention is thus reduced.

[0014] In embodiments, each skate and each slider are connected by at least one cable configured to synchronize the movements of each skate and each slider.

[0015] Thanks to these provisions, the training device faithfully reproduces the movement of cross-country skiing and walking with poles, so that, during normal use, the advancing leg is accompanied in its forward movement by the arm on the opposite side while the retreating leg is accompanied in its backward movement by the other arm.

[0016] In embodiments, the cable forms a loop.

[0017] Thanks to these provisions, the drive device is simplified, as it does not require a reel or mass at each end of the cable.

[0018] In embodiments, the device of the invention comprises two automatic winders configured to wind the two ends of the cable.

[0019] Thanks to these arrangements, the cable is kept taut and its winding is reliable.

[0020] In embodiments, the device which is the subject of the invention comprises a means for tilting each central track and / or each lateral track.

[0021] Thanks to these arrangements, when a side track is inclined, a greater travel of the pole is obtained for the same length of device and offers more comfort to the user since it allows to reduce the inclination of the pole when pushing this pole backwards. Finally, the inclination of the tracks makes it possible to reproduce the effects and sensations of walking in the mountains.

[0022] In embodiments, at least one slider comprises magnetic braking means.

[0023] Thanks to these provisions, the size of the device is reduced.

[0024] In embodiments, at least one slider is connected to one end of a stick, the other free end of which carries a handle connected to the stick via a pivot connection or via a ball joint.

[0025] The pivot connection allows for lateral and / or ulnar flexion of the handle. The user of the training device can thus perform a palmar flexion movement to push the poles back at the apex of the arm and wrist movement during the exercise.

[0026] In embodiments, at least one slider is connected to one end of a pole via a pivot connection or via a ball joint connection.

[0027] Thanks to these arrangements, the sticks can be handled easily.

[0028] In embodiments, the device which is the subject of the invention comprises two lateral tracks parallel to the central tracks and positioned on either side of the central tracks.

[0029] Thanks to these arrangements, the training device imitates the movement of poles similar to cross-country skiing or walking with poles.

[0030] In embodiments, the device of the invention comprises a lateral track perpendicular to the central tracks and positioned at one end of each central track.

[0031] Thanks to these features, the training device reproduces the sensations of mountain walking or hiking, for example.

[0032] In embodiments, at least one friction means is positioned on each slider and comprises a bearing surface on the lateral track, at least one weight being positioned on said friction means.

[0033] Thanks to these arrangements, the friction force is distributed over the lateral track.

[0034] In embodiments, the bearing surface is integrated with each slider and the shape of the bearing surface corresponds to the shape of a surface of the track on which the slider slides.

[0035] Thanks to these arrangements, the positioning of the slide in the lateral track is stabilized by gravity. In addition, the contact surface between the slide and the lateral track is increased, which allows for better positioning of the friction means.

[0036] In embodiments, the cable is attached to the slider and forms a non-zero angle with the side track.

[0037] Thanks to these arrangements, the user's body weight on the skates creates greater resistance.

[0038] In embodiments, at least one friction means comprises means for suspending at least one weight from each pad, the suspension means contacting the central track in which the pad slides.

[0039] Thanks to these provisions, the device is more compact.

[0040] In embodiments, the suspension means comprises a plate suspended between the skate and the central track in which the skate slides.

[0041] Thanks to these arrangements, the plate is subjected to friction.

[0042] In embodiments, the friction means comprises means for clamping a plate against the central track, the clamping of the plate increasing the friction force.

[0043] Thanks to these arrangements, the user does not need to manipulate weights to adjust the friction force. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0044] Other advantages, aims and particular characteristics of the invention will emerge from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the device which is the subject of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, in which: there figure 1 represents, schematically and in perspective view, a first particular embodiment of the training device which is the subject of the invention, the figure 2 represents, schematically and in perspective view, a second particular embodiment of the training device which is the subject of the invention, the figure 3 represents, schematically in perspective view, a third particular embodiment of the training device which is the subject of the invention, the figure 4 represents, schematically and in section, a first particular embodiment of an assembly of a slide on a lateral track, the figure 5 represents, schematically and in section, a second mode of assembly of a slide on a lateral track, the figure 6 represents, schematically and in section, a third particular embodiment of an assembly of a slide on a lateral track, the figure 7 represents, schematically and in section, a fourth particular embodiment of an assembly of a slide on a lateral track, the figure 8 represents, schematically, a first embodiment of two skates assembled in two central tracks, the figure 9 represents, schematically and in perspective, a fourth embodiment of a training device which is the subject of the invention, the figure 10 represents, schematically and in perspective, a fifth embodiment of a training device which is the subject of the invention, the figure 11 represents, schematically and in section, a second embodiment of a skate of a device which is the subject of the invention and the figure 12 represents, schematically and in section, a third embodiment of a skate or a slide of a device which is the subject of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0045] This description is given without limitation, each characteristic of an embodiment being able to be combined with any other characteristic of any other embodiment in an advantageous manner.

[0046] Please note, from now on, that the figures are not to scale.

[0047] We observe, in figure 1 , which is not to scale, a schematic view of a first particular embodiment of the training device 100 imitating the movements associated with the practice of cross-country skiing, the subject of the invention.

[0048] The drive device 100 comprises a chassis 101 on which are mounted two central tracks, 1a and 1b, arranged on either side and close to a central axis of the chassis. The two central tracks, 1a and 1b, are arranged on a lower part of the chassis, preferably as close as possible to the ground on which the drive device 100 rests. Preferably, the central tracks, 1a and 1b, are parallel to each other.

[0049] On each central track, 1a and 1b, is mounted a skate, respectively 3a and 3b, configured to accommodate the foot of a user of the training device. The skate is movable in translation along the central track to which it is associated.

[0050] The central tracks, 1a and 1b, and the skates, 3a and 3b, are described opposite the figure 8 .

[0051] Preferably, the skates, 3a and 3b, have an ergonomic shape adapted to the user's foot and include means of attachment well known to those skilled in the art, for example straps.

[0052] In embodiments (not shown), the foot support surface on each skate is made free to rotate on a horizontal axis or comprises a ball joint to accommodate the flexion and extension movements of the foot.

[0053] Two side tracks, 6a and 6b, are mounted on either side of the central tracks, 1a and 1b. The side tracks, 6a and 6b, are raised on railings fixed to the chassis 51. Two sliders, 4a and 4b, are mounted on the side tracks, 6a and 6b respectively. Each slider, 4a and 4b, is movable in translation along the side track, 6a and 6b, on which it is mounted. Each slider, 4a and 4b, is connected to a stick, 5a and 5b, by means of a hinge connection. Each slider, 4a and 4b, is provided with friction means configured to induce a dynamic friction force on the side tracks, 6a and 6b, on which the slider slides.

[0054] The poles are configured to be grasped by their free end by a user during normal use of the training device 100. The coordinated movement of the legs, supported by the skates, and the arms, gripping the poles, is forward and then backward. Thus, the training device 100 faithfully reproduces the movement of cross-country skiing and walking with poles, such that, during normal use, the forward leg is accompanied in its forward movement by the arm on the opposite side while the backward leg is accompanied in its backward movement by the other arm.

[0055] The side tracks, 6a and 6b, and the slides, 4a and 4b, are described in relation to the figures 4 à 7 .

[0056] A cable 7 connects the first slider 4a to the first pad 3a via pulleys 8a, 8b and 8c. The same cable 7 is attached to the second pad 3b via pulleys 8d and 8e. The same cable 7 is attached to the second slider via pulleys 8f, 8g and 8h.

[0057] Preferably, the cable 7 forms a loop and is attached to the slider 4a via pulleys 8i and 8j.

[0058] In embodiments, the cable 7 is automatically wound at both ends by automatic winders (not shown). For example, they operate by means of springs or weights.

[0059] For the purposes of the invention, a cable is defined as a long, thin link capable of transmitting a tensile force. It may be, for example, a simple metal cable or one braided with metal fibers, a rope or a ribbon, for example a synthetic rubber ribbon, a chain or any other equivalent means known to those skilled in the art. The cable 7 is wound around the pulleys, 8a to h or 8a to 8j, or around equivalent means such as guides or toothed wheels.

[0060] We observe, in figure 2 , which is not to scale, a schematic view of a second particular embodiment of the drive device 200 which is the subject of the invention. The drive device 200 is distinguished in particular from that described in figure 1 in that the lateral tracks, 6a and 6b, carried by the chassis 201, are inclined. The other characteristics of the drive device 200 having already been described with regard to the figure 1 , they are not described again here. However, in this second embodiment, the sticks, 5a and 5b, have, on their free ends, a handle, respectively 13a and 13b, perpendicular to the axis of the stick.

[0061] We observe, in figure 3 , which is not to scale, a schematic view of a third particular embodiment of the drive device 300 which is the subject of the invention. This drive device 300 is distinguished from those described in figures 1 And 2 in that the lateral tracks, 6a and 6b, are arranged in the same plane as the central tracks 1a and 1b. These tracks are supported by a chassis 301. The other characteristics of the drive device 300 having already been described with regard to the figures 1 And 2, they are not described again here. Nevertheless, in this embodiment, the sticks, 5a and 5b, comprise, on their free ends, a handle, respectively 21a and 21b, connected to the stick, 5a or 5b, by means of a pivot connection 19a or 19b.

[0062] In embodiments (not shown), the sticks, 5a and 5b, have on their free ends a handle, respectively 21a and 21b, connected to the stick, 5a or 5b, by means of a ball joint.

[0063] We observe, in figure 4 , a first particular embodiment of a slider 4a mounted movable in translation on a lateral track 6a. The slider 4a comprises a hinge connection 20 connected to the stick 5a. The lateral track 6a is mounted on the chassis 101, 201, 301, 401 or 501.

[0064] The slider 4a comprises a body 22 in the shape of an inverted "U" complementary to the shape of the lateral track 6a. The body 22 comprises a coating 14 on its face 12 oriented towards the lateral track 6a. The coating 14 slides in contact with the surface 15 of the lateral track 6a, constrained by the two ends of the body 22 in the shape of a "U", thus forming a sliding connection.

[0065] For example, the coating 14 is a durable and flexible polyester material. For example, the surface 15 comprises Teflon or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or a melamine paint. Other materials that comply with the same tribological principles can be used for the coating 14 and the surface 15.

[0066] The body 22 comprises magnetic braking means 16 allowing the braking of the slide by magnetization with a ferromagnetic material secured to the lateral track 6a. For example, the ferromagnetic material is a metal sheet 17.

[0067] In the embodiment illustrated in figure 4 , the braking is carried out by direct magnetization, that is to say without an air band separating the slide 4a comprising the magnetized means 16 from the lateral track 6a comprising the metal sheet 17.

[0068] In other embodiments, an air band is arranged between the slide 4a comprising the magnetic means 16 and the lateral track 6a comprising the metal sheet 17. In embodiments, the air band is obtained by interposing at least one shim between the magnetic means and the metal sheet. In other embodiments, the air band is obtained by suspending the magnetic means, for example by means of a threaded rod passing through a tapped orifice. The distance of the magnet from the metal sheet reduces the friction force.

[0069] In embodiments, the magnetic braking means comprise at least one electromagnet and the means necessary for its electrical supply and for the modulation of this electrical supply.

[0070] We observe, in figure 5 , a particular embodiment of a slider 4a mounted movably in translation on a lateral track 6a. The slider 4a comprises a hinge connection 20 connected to the stick 5a. The lateral track 6a is mounted on the chassis 51. The slider 4a comprises a body 23 in the shape of an inverted "U" complementary to the shape of the lateral track 6a.

[0071] The body 23 supports weights 18 whose mass applies, by gravity, a force (also called "weight") oriented downwards, that is to say towards the lateral track 6a. The force thus exerted by the weights increases the friction forces between the slider 4a and the lateral track 6a, slowing the movement of the slider 4a on the lateral track 6a.

[0072] In embodiments, the mass of the supported removable weights 18 may be adjusted by adding, removing, or substituting weights attached to the slider 4a.

[0073] The body 23 has a coating 14 on its face 12 and the lateral track 6a has a surface 15. These elements are similar to those described in figure 4 they are not described again here.

[0074] We observe, in figure 6 , a particular embodiment of a slider 4a mounted movable in translation on a lateral track 6a. The slider 4a comprises a hinge connection 20 connected to the stick 5a. The lateral track 6a is secured to the chassis 51. The slider 4a comprises a hollow body 25 of rectangular section. The upper side 12 of the body 25 rests and slides on the lateral track 6a.

[0075] In a manner similar to the body 23 described above, the body 25 supports weights 18 which, by gravity, exert a downward force, i.e. towards the lateral track 6a. The force thus exerted by the weights increases the friction forces between the slide 4a and the lateral track 6a, slowing the advance of the slide 4a.

[0076] In this embodiment, the weights 18 rest inside the hollow body 25.

[0077] The body 25 has a coating 14 on its face 12 and the lateral track 6a has a surface 15. These elements are similar to those described in figure 4 , they are not described again here.

[0078] In embodiments (not shown), at least one slider, 4a or 4b, comprises wheels, casters or ball bearings rolling on the side track, 6a or 6b.

[0079] We observe, in figure 7 , a particular embodiment of a slider 4a mounted movably in translation on a lateral track 6a. The slider 4a comprises a hinge connection 20 connected to the stick 5a. The lateral track 6a is mounted on the chassis 51. The slider 4a comprises a body 24 of triangular shape complementary to a "V" shaped notch in the lateral track 6a.

[0080] The body 24 has a coating 14 on its face 12 and the lateral track 6a has a surface 15. These elements are similar to those described in figure 4 , they are not described again here.

[0081] In embodiments, the slider 4a and the side track 6a illustrated in figure 7 include braking means comprising weights, as described in the description of the figure 5 .

[0082] In embodiments, the slider 4a and the side track 6a illustrated in figure 7 include magnetic braking means, as described in the description of the figure 6 .

[0083] We observe, in figure 8 , a particular embodiment of two skates, 3a and 3b, mounted sliding in two central tracks.

[0084] In the embodiment illustrated in figure 8 , the skates 3a and 3b comprise wheels 31 which move in translation in a trench delimited by blocks 32. The wheels 31 are connected by a frame 30 connecting the wheels 31 to a plate 9.

[0085] Preferably, a platform 33 is interposed between the plates 9 of the skates, 3a and 3b, and the tracks, 1a and 1b. In this case, the frames 30 comprise a thin part passing through a slot of corresponding dimension cut in the platform 33.

[0086] In embodiments (not shown), the pads, 1a and 1b, move on rails, or are mounted to move in translation in a slide.

[0087] We observe, in figure 9 , a fourth particular embodiment 400 of the device which is the subject of the invention. This device 400 is more particularly intended to reproduce walking with poles in the mountains. This device 400 comprises a chassis 401 and central tracks 1a and 1b supported by an inclined plane 402 and whose pads 3a and 3b are provided with a horizontal upper face so that the feet do not slip and the user does not risk falling. In embodiments (not shown), the inclination of the inclined plane 402 is adjustable by a tilting system, for example with mechanical stops carried by the chassis 401. Preferably, in these embodiments, the inclination of the upper face of each pad 3a and 3b is also adjustable.

[0088] Since the strides are shorter, the lateral tracks for the sliders can be horizontal, shorter than in other embodiments. The pads 3a and 3b supported by the inclined plane 402 can move in grooves in which lower lugs or blades of the pads slide.

[0089] We observe, in figure 10 , a fifth particular embodiment 500 of the device which is the subject of the invention. This device 500 comprises a frontal lateral track 6c perpendicular to the central tracks 1a and 1b. This horizontal lateral track 6c is carried by the chassis 501.

[0090] Thus, the skates 3a and 3b carried by the oblique plane 502 are in relation to a single slide 4c without a stick, which slides on a horizontal plane and perpendicular to the central tracks 1a and 1b. This device 500 allows greater strides than current devices. Pulleys 508a and 508f carried by this horizontal plane as well as pulleys 508b, 508c, 508d and 508e carried by the inclined plane 502 and connected to the skates 3a and 3b, guide the cable 7 whose ends are attached to the slide 4c.

[0091] In embodiments (not shown), the inclined plane 402 or 502 may include notches forming an axis positioned perpendicular to each central track. A removable locking bar may be positioned in the notches to limit the length of the step and to ensure firm support on the pads when starting the apparatus.

[0092] In the embodiment illustrated in figure 11 , the skates 3a or 3b comprise wheels 31 which move in translation in a trench delimited by blocks 32. The wheels 31 are connected by a frame 30 connecting the wheels 31 to a plate 9.

[0093] The frame 30 comprises a means 60 for suspending weights from each skate, the weights and / or the suspension means 60 coming into contact with the central track in which the skate 3a or 3b slides.

[0094] The suspension means 60 is preferably a box suspended from the frame 30 by elastic means, such as springs. The box comprises a plate 62 parallel to the track 32. When weights 61 are positioned in the box, the box moves towards the track 32. The plate 62 comes into contact with the track 32 and causes dynamic friction.

[0095] Preferably, the elastic means have a stiffness configured so that the box 60, when empty, that is to say without weight, is not in contact with the track 32.

[0096] Preferably, the tray 9 is removable to allow the user to remove or add weights 61.

[0097] In the embodiment illustrated in figure 12 , the skates 3a or 3b or the slides 4a and 4b comprise wheels 31 which move in translation in a trench delimited by blocks 76. The wheels 31 are connected by a frame 30 connecting the wheels 31 to a platform 9 where the user places his feet.

[0098] The frame 30 comprises a support 70 provided with a threaded orifice 75. The threaded orifice 75 is crossed by a threaded rod 72 having a crank 74 at one end and a plate 71 at the other end. The plate 71 is opposite a surface 73 of the central track.

[0099] The friction means comprise a clamping means, 72, 74 and 75, of a plate 71 against the central track 73, the clamping of the plate increasing the friction force. By actuating the crank 74, the plate 71 bears against the surface 73 of the central track. The further the plate is from the support 70, the greater the clamping and friction force.

Claims

1. Training device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500), which comprises: - a frame (101, 201, 301, 401, 501) comprising two central tracks (1a, 1b) and at least one side track (6a, 6b, 6c) positioned either side of the two central tracks; - for each central track, a pad (3a, 3b) sliding on this central track; - at least one slide block (4a, 4b, 4c) sliding on a side track; and - for at least one element from among a slide block and / or at least one pad, friction means (16, 17, 18) configured to induce a dynamic friction force on the track on which this element slides, and characterised in that the friction means (18) comprise at least one removable weight.

2. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 1, wherein the friction means (18) comprise magnetic braking means (16, 17).

3. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein at least one portion of at least one side track (6a, 6b, 6c) is higher than the central tracks (1a, 1b)4. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each pad and each slide block are connected by a cable (7) configured to synchronise the movements of each pad and each slide block.

5. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 4, wherein the cable (7) forms a loop, its ends being attached.

6. Device (100, 200, 400, 500) according to one of claims 1 to 5, which comprises a means for inclining each central track (1a, 1b) and / or each side track (6a, 6b).

7. Device (200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one slide block (4a, 4b) is connected to one end of a pole (5a, 5b) whose other, free, end bears a handle (21a, 21b) connected to the pole by means of a pivot link or by means of a swivel link.

8. Device (200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one slide block (4a, 4b) is connected to one end of a pole (5a, 5b) by means of a pivot link or by means of a swivel link.

9. Device (500) according to one of claims 1 to 8, which comprises a side track (6c) perpendicular to the central tracks (1a, 1b) and positioned at one end of each central track.

10. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one friction means is positioned on each slide block and comprises a surface (14, 71) bearing on the side track.

11. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 10, wherein the bearing surface (14, 71) is incorporated into each slide block and the shape of the bearing surface (14, 71) conforms to the shape of a surface (15, 73) of the track on which the slide block slides.

12. Device (500) according to one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the cable (7) is secured to the slide block (4c) and forms a non-zero angle with the side track.

13. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least one friction means comprises a means (60) for suspending a weight (61) from each pad (3a or 3b), the suspension means entering into contact with the central track (32) along which the pad slides.

14. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to claim 13, wherein the suspension means (60) comprise a plate (62) suspended between the pad and the central track along which the pad slides.

15. Device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the friction means comprise a means (72, 74, 75) for tightening a plate (71) against the central track (73), the tightening of the plate increasing the friction force.