Physical training unit comprising an elastic part and a system comprising a physical training unit

Abstract

The present invention relates to a physical training unit for use by a person. The physical training unit comprises an elastic part providing an elastic resistance during use, at least one non-elastic part, primary connecting means configured to attach the elastic part to the at least one non-elastic part. The physical training unit in particular comprises a tube extending in a longitudinal direction and constituted of a flexible material.

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a physical training or rehabilitation apparatus comprising an elastic part providing an elastic resistance.Background of the invention

[0002] Elastic bands are a staple in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings, prized for their simplicity and effectiveness in a variety of exercises. These bands, known for their versatility, are instrumental in exercises that target different muscle groups and cater to a wide range of fitness levels. Their utility extends from offering resistance in strength training exercises, which is pivotal for muscle development and rehabilitation, to enhancing flexibility and range of motion. The level of resistance can be easily adjusted by selecting bands of varying thickness or material, allowing for a progressive increase in difficulty as one's strength improves.

[0003] One of the key advantages of elastic bands is their portability. Being lightweight and compact, they are a convenient option for those who wish to continue their exercise regimen at home, in a clinic, or even while traveling. This flexibility in usage makes them an ideal tool for consistent physical therapy and rehabilitation practices. Additionally, for individuals dealing with joint pain or conditions like arthritis, elastic bands offer a low-impact form of exercise. This is particularly beneficial as it allows for strengthening without placing undue stress on the joints, a common concern with more traditional forms of weight-bearing exercises.

[0004] US 11.331.529 shows a physical training system comprising a belt for fixing around the waist of a person and that includes a plurality of belt extension straps each adapted for fixing with the belt at any location therearound and adjustable in length. Two shoes are adapted for wearing on the person's feet, each shoe including at least four attachment loops at opposing quadrants of the shoe and optional shoe extension straps. A plurality of elastomeric bands is selectively fixable between any of the belt extensions straps and the attachment loops or shoe extension straps of the shoes. A shoulder harness comprising two straps is included for attachment to and positioning of the belt. As such, in use, the person while running experiences resistance as each leg extends into a fully extended position, and a reduction or cessation of resistance as each leg retracts into a non-extended position.

[0005] Despite their numerous benefits, there are certain considerations to be mindful of when using elastic bands, especially concerning skin contact. A significant concern is the risk of allergic reactions. Many elastic bands are made from latex, a material known to cause allergic reactions in some individuals. These reactions can range from mild skin irritation to more severe allergic responses, necessitating the need for non-latex alternatives for those affected.

[0006] Moreover, skin irritation can be a common issue, not just from potential allergic reactions but also due to the friction caused by the bands during exercise. This can be particularly problematic during prolonged use or with repeated motions. The risk of injury is another factor to consider. Elastic bands, if not used correctly, can snap back unexpectedly, potentially causing injury. This risk is heightened if the band slips from a grip or an anchor point during exercise.

[0007] The durability of elastic bands is another aspect to consider. Over time, with regular use, these bands can degrade, losing their elasticity or even breaking. This not only poses a risk of injury but can also be a concern for individuals with sensitive skin. Additionally, hygiene is an important factor to consider. Elastic bands can absorb sweat and become a breeding ground for bacteria, which could lead to skin infections if the bands are not cleaned regularly.

[0008] Hence, while elastic bands are an invaluable tool in rehabilitation and physical therapy, offering versatility, portability, and joint-friendly exercise options, it is important to be aware of and address potential issues related to skin contact and overall safety to fully benefit from their use.Description of the invention

[0009] Thus, an object of the present invention relates to provide an improved physical training unit which may be used with a physical training system to exercise muscular groups around joints.

[0010] Thus, a first aspect of the invention relates to a physical training unit for use by a person, comprising an elastic part providing an elastic resistance during use, at least one non-elastic part, primary connecting means configured to attach the elastic part to the at least one non-elastic part, which physical training unit further comprises a tube extending in a longitudinal direction and constituted of a flexible material.

[0011] Preferably the tube comprises tube connecting means at each end of the tube, preferably configured to attach each end of the tube to a point or part beyond the elastic part in such a way that the elastic part is completely covered by the tube.

[0012] In general, the non-elastic part is less elastic than the elastic part or being "non-elastic" means for the non-elastic part that in a fully elongated state the non-elastic part may only increase 10% in length due to elastic elongation, preferably only up to 5%, or 2% or 1% in length.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the tube may comprise or be constituted of a fabric which may be woven or non-woven or knitted or the like.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the tube may not be elastic as such but may be flexible and may be folded / deformed into a shorter form.

[0015] In general, the tube may be in a short state, in a fully elongated state, and in a medium state comprising all states between these two extreme states. That the tube is not elastic means that the tube is less elastic than the elastic part, or that the tube in the fully elongated state may only increase 50% in length due to elastic elongation, preferably only 30%, or 20% or 10% in length.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the tube may be constituted of a fabric comprising at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 80% of a non-elastic fabric such as polyester or polypropylene, and preferably up to 40%, or up to 30%, or up to 20% of an elastic fabric, such as elastane.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the tube may be constituted of a fabric comprising up to 40%, or up to 30%, or up to 20% of an elastic fabric, such as elastane.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the primary connecting means may be releasable, thereby allowing replacement of the elastic part as well as adding or removing elastic part(s) to vary the elastic resistance.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, a physical training unit may comprise two non-elastic parts, and two primary connecting means configured to attach at least one elastic part to both the two non-elastic parts.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the physical training unit may also comprise secondary connecting means configured to attach at least one non-elastic part to an external anchoring part. The secondary connecting means may e.g., be releasable and may comprise a snap hook.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the elastic part may comprise one or more elastic bands, such as circular elastic bands.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the non-elastic part may be constituted of a strap, which may comprise a length adjustment mechanism.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the non-elastic part comprises a strap, which may comprise a length adjustment mechanism.

[0024] Such a strap (part of the non-elastic part) may form a loop. The length adjustment mechanism may comprise a passage opening through which an end of the strap is positioned and a locking part preventing the strap from moving relative to the locking mechanism.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the tube connecting means, during use, is attached to the non-elastic part, or to a part combined with either the primary or secondary connecting means.

[0026] Some patient groups, particularly those with reduced grasping capabilities, face significant challenges when attempting to engage in rehabilitation exercises using elastic bands. Conditions such as arthritis, neurological disorders (like stroke or multiple sclerosis), or injuries affecting the hands can impair their ability to properly grip and hold onto objects. This limitation becomes particularly relevant when using elastic bands for therapeutic exercises, as many of these exercises require the patient to grasp the ends or rings of the bands firmly to generate resistance and perform movements effectively.

[0027] For individuals with weakened or compromised hand function, the act of gripping the elastic band can be both painful and physically impossible. As a result, these patients struggle to maintain a secure hold on the bands during exercises, which undermines their ability to participate in and benefit from such strength training. Without a proper grip, the tension in the bands cannot be utilized fully, rendering the exercises less effective or even hazardous, as the band may slip unexpectedly.

[0028] The reduced grasping ability therefore not only limits the types of exercises these patients can perform but also affects the overall quality and safety of their rehabilitation process. It becomes essential in such cases to explore alternative solutions or adaptive tools that can compensate for the lack of grip strength, allowing these patients to engage in effective therapeutic exercises without relying on their compromised hand function.

[0029] A solution to the problem of reduced grasping capabilities in patients can be addressed by introducing a specialized body garment, such as straps, a top, and / or trousers, that alone or together incorporates two or more anchoring parts. This garment would enable the use of elastic bands without the need for patients to grip them manually, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with impaired hand function.

[0030] The garment would feature multiple anchoring points, strategically placed on the body, such as the shoulders, chest, waist, or legs, to accommodate different types of exercises. The elastic bands, instead of having to be held by hand, would be equipped with connecting means, such as snap hooks, that easily attach to these anchoring parts. This allows the patient to perform resistance exercises effectively by engaging larger muscle groups and body movements, without relying on their compromised hand strength.

[0031] Additionally, the elastic band could be wrapped around extremities, such as the arms or legs, and connected to the anchoring points on the garment. This would aid in lifting or bending the extremities, providing additional support during movements that require assistance, such as leg lifts or arm curls. By wrapping the band around an extremity, the resistance from the band can help guide and support the motion, making it easier for the patient to perform exercises that would otherwise be difficult due to reduced muscle strength or control. When wrapping the band around an extremity, it is important that the band does not damage the skin of the user.

[0032] This system not only enhances accessibility to resistance training but also offers greater flexibility in how the elastic bands can be used, enabling a wide range of rehabilitation exercises that promote strength, flexibility, and motor control, all without depending on the patient's ability to grip.

[0033] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a physical training system for use by a person comprising a physical training unit according to the first aspect, and a body garment comprising two or more anchoring parts.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the second aspect, the body garment may comprise straps or the like fastened to the users' body.

[0035] The body garment comprises at least two anchoring parts positioned at a distance to each other, preferably positioned relative to each other such as to allow bending and stretching and / or rotating of a joint, such as an elbow, a knee, a shoulder, an ankle, etc.

[0036] In this context, the term "body garment" refers to a specialized piece of clothing designed to aid in rehabilitation or physical training by providing structural support and functional attachment points for the elastic bands. Unlike conventional clothing, a body garment is engineered with specific features that enable it to assist in exercise movements and accommodate patients with physical limitations, particularly those who struggle with grip strength.

[0037] A body garment could take several forms, such as a top (vest, jacket, or shirt), trousers, or adjustable straps that fit securely around different parts of the body. It would be made of durable, flexible materials that allow a full range of motion while providing enough structure to anchor resistance bands. The garment is preferably designed to be worn comfortably during exercise and rehabilitation sessions, allowing the user to perform various movements with the support of anchored elastic bands.

[0038] The body garment incorporates multiple anchoring parts, which are attachment points placed at key locations, such as the shoulders, chest, waist, hips, thighs, or ankles. These anchoring parts are preferably reinforced to handle the tension from elastic bands, and they provide secure connection points for resistance bands equipped with snap hooks or other fasteners. The garment can be customized or adjusted to suit the individual's body shape, ensuring that it fits snugly and supports the specific exercises needed for their rehabilitation.

[0039] In addition to anchoring points, the garment could include additional features, such as padding for comfort, adjustable straps for size versatility, and breathable materials to enhance usability during longer exercise sessions. By incorporating these elements, the body garment transforms into an adaptive tool that helps distribute force across the body rather than concentrating it in the hands, enabling users with reduced grasping capabilities to participate in a wide range of strength and mobility exercises.

[0040] According to the third aspect, the invention may relate to a kit of parts comprising: a physical training unit according to the first aspect, a set of elastic parts, which elastic parts may be combined with or replace each other to obtain a suitable elastic resistance.

[0041] The set of elastic parts may comprise two or more individual elastic parts with different elastic resistance which elastic parts may replace each other, and / or may comprise two or more elastic parts, which may be joined serially or parallelly to adapt the elastic resistance of the physical training unit.

[0042] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and / or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about", it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

[0043] It should be noted that embodiments and features described in the context of one of the aspects of the present invention also apply to the other aspects of the invention.Brief description of the figures

[0044] Figure 1A, 1B and 1C shows a physical training system according to the invention where a physical training unit is mounted relative to a body garment. Figure 2 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a physical training unit according to the invention. Figure 3 shows enlargement of a first embodiment of a mounted elastic part. Figure 4 shows enlargement of a second embodiment of a mounted elastic part. Figure 5 shows an embodiment of physical training unit and how to join an elastic part with a tube.

[0045] The present invention will now be described in more detail in the following.Detailed embodiments of the invention

[0046] In the present context, the term "in general" when used when mentioning a feature relating to the present invention, it must be understood that the feature may be used with all embodiments of the invention, even if the mentioning is made in the detailed part of the document.

[0047] The invention will now be described in further details in the following non-limiting examples.

[0048] The present invention relates to both a physical training unit and a physical training system comprising such a unit.

[0049] Figures 1A and 1B show an embodiment of physical training system mounted for training musculature either around both elbows and shoulders of a user with outward rotating movements as illustrated in Fig. 1A, or around one elbow / shoulder of a user with upward rotating movements as illustrated in Fig. 1B. A physical training system according to the invention comprises a body garment 9 comprising two or more anchoring parts 8. The body garment 9 may be constituted of straps or belts fastened to the users' body as shown in Fig. 1A and 1B, however, the body garment 9 also be constituted of actual garments such as blouses or trousers comprising anchoring parts. Normally, the body garment 9 comprises at least two anchoring parts 8 positioned at a distance and at a position relative to each other which allows bending and stretching of a joint such as an elbow, a knee, a shoulder, an ankle, etc., i.e. the anchoring parts 8 are positioned at different sides of the joint in such a way that when the joint is stretched, the physical training unit is extended.

[0050] In general, rehabilitation exercises can target a variety of joints, depending on the specific goals of the therapy and the patient's needs. Typically, rehabilitation programs aim to restore mobility, strength, and function in specific joints that may have been affected by injury, surgery, or a medical condition. The primary joints that are commonly trained during rehabilitation exercises include a shoulder joint, an elbow joint, a wrist joint, a hip joint, a knee joint, an ankle joint, and the spine.

[0051] A shoulder joint is often a focus in rehabilitation for conditions such as rotator cuff injuries, shoulder impingement, or after shoulder surgery. Exercises aim to improve range of motion, strength, and stability, particularly in the muscles surrounding the shoulder, such as the deltoids and rotator cuff muscles. In cases of elbow injuries or conditions like tennis elbow or golfer's elbow, rehabilitation exercises focus on restoring flexibility and strength to the joint and surrounding muscles, like the biceps, triceps, and forearm muscles. These exercises help regain full extension and flexion of the elbow. Rehabilitation of the wrist joint is common after fractures, ligament injuries, or conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Exercises for the wrist are aimed at restoring range of motion, grip strength, and functional use of the hand. The hip is critical for mobility and stability. Rehabilitation exercises for the hip are often prescribed after hip replacement surgery, hip fractures, or for conditions like osteoarthritis. Exercises target hip flexion, extension, abduction, and strengthening of surrounding muscles like the gluteals and hip flexors. The knee joint is commonly rehabilitated after injuries like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, meniscal injuries, or after knee replacement surgery. Rehabilitation exercises focus on improving the joint's range of motion, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf strength, and stability. Ankle rehabilitation is often necessary after sprains, fractures, or ligament injuries. Exercises focus on restoring dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion of the foot, as well as strengthening the surrounding muscles to improve balance and stability. Although not a single joint, the vertebral joints in the spine are often targeted in rehabilitation, particularly after back injuries, disc herniation, or chronic conditions such as degenerative disc disease. Exercises focus on improving core strength, flexibility, and stability to support the spine and reduce pain.

[0052] The same equipment is used in the two shown training sessions illustrated respectively in Fig. 1A and 1B, however, different anchoring parts 8 are used in the two training sessions.

[0053] In general, the body garment 9 may comprise separate parts such as two or more straps fastened to distanced parts of the users' body and each comprising at least or at most one anchoring part 8, or the body garment 9 may be constituted of a single part such as a tube adapted to an arm or a leg, or blouse or trousers comprising more than one anchoring part 8. Preferably, the body garment 9 is made of a relatively rigid or non-elastic material, which does not give in during exercising, or which to a very little degree gives in during exercising configured for the anchoring parts 8 to remain in a desired position. However, the body garment 9 may also be made of an elastic or semi-elastic material and contribute to training of the musculature.

[0054] Figure 1C illustrates how a user using the left hand is in the process of attaching one end of a physical training unit according to the invention to a body garment 9. The body garment is a strap secured around the user's right wrist and the anchoring part 8 is a ring-shaped part which has been fastened to the body garment 9 by sewing or glueing or welding or by another suitable method.

[0055] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a physical training unit according to the invention. This embodiment comprises a tube 4 extending in a longitudinal direction, which tube 4 is constituted of a flexible material as well as at least one elastic part 1 providing an elastic resistance during exercising. The elastic part 1 moves exclusively inside the tube 4 during use. The embodiment further comprises two non-elastic parts 2, which parts 2 during use extend between the elastic part 1, and an anchoring part 8. The non-elastic parts 2 may extend partly inside the tube 4 and partly outside the tube 4. The embodiment further comprises primary connecting means 3 configured to attach the elastic part 1 to each of the two non-elastic parts 2.

[0056] Figure 3 shows an enlargement of the embodiment of Fig. 2, showing how the elastic part 1 is attached to each of the non-elastic parts 2 by releasable primary connecting means 3. The primary connecting means 3 comprising a snap hook at one position, which snap-hook holds on to the elastic part 1 during use and allows for easy replacement of the elastic part 1. The primary connection means 3 further comprises a ring-shaped unit comprising an opening at a second position, which opening allows for the strap of the non-elastic part 2 to pass through the opening of the ring-shaped unit. In this way, the primary connecting means 3 secure the elastic part 1 to each of the non-elastic parts 2.

[0057] Figure 4 shows an enlargement of an alternative embodiment of an elastic part 1, which may be used with the embodiment of a physical training unit shown in Fig. 2. According to this embodiment, the elastic part 1 comprises two elastic bands that are positioned in parallel between the two primary connecting means 3. The elastic resistance of the embodiment of Fig. 4 is increased compared to the elastic resistance of the embodiment of Fig. 3.

[0058] In general, the elastic part 1 may comprise any elastic device, the elastic part 1 may be a ring-shaped elastic band, as shown in Fig. 2, or it may be a longitudinally extending elastic strip, e.g., with connecting means at each end, or a spring biasing lengthwise such as a coil spring. As the elastic part 1 provides a resistance to suit a training purpose, the elastic part 1 should in resistance be adapted to the intended purpose for training. Optionally, one physical training unit may be configured to provide increased or reduced elastic resistance simply by increasing or reducing the number of parallelly or serially positioned elastic parts 1, or by replacing one elastic part 1 by another elastic part 1 providing either increased or reduced elastic resistance.

[0059] In general, the primary connecting means 3 may comprise either a separate unit in form of a snap hook, a belt with a buckle etc., or the primary connecting means 3 may be an integrated part of either the elastic part 1 or the non-elastic part 2, e.g., the primary connecting means 3 may be constituted by surface contact as a ring-shaped elastic part 1 may be attached to a non-elastic part 2 constituted of a belt or strip, which is inserted through the opening of the ring-shaped elastic part 1, whereafter the ends of the belt or strip are joined to secure the elastic part 1 relative to the non-elastic part 2. The primary connecting means 3 may be either releasable and allowing replacement of the elastic part 1, or the primary connecting means may be un-releasable, in which case it is not possible to separate the elastic part 1 from the non-elastic part 2 without destroying the combination. The primary connecting means 3 of the embodiment of Fig. 2, are releasable and comprises a snap hook in form of a bolt snap.

[0060] The non-elastic part 2 may be extendable in a non-elastic way, e.g., the non-elastic part 2 may comprise a belt or a strap with a buckle or the like, which allows for extension, e.g., stepwise extension, of the non-elastic part 2. Alternatively, the non-elastic part 2 may be of constant length. This may be the case if the non-elastic part 2 is a metal or plastic joint, which at one position is adapted to hold and secure the elastic part 1 and at a second position is adapted to attach to an anchoring part 8 of the body garment 9.

[0061] In general, the physical training unit comprises one tube 4 extending in a longitudinal direction, which tube 4 is constituted of a flexible material. The tube 4 comprises tube connecting means 5 at each end of the tube 4, and the tube connecting means 5 are configured to attach each end of the tube 4 to a point or part beyond the elastic part 1 in such a way that the elastic part 1 is completely covered by the tube 4 and exclusively moves inside the tube 4 during all length variations. The primary purpose of the tube 4 is to prevent direct contact between the user and the elastic part 1 as physical contact between the elastic part 1 the user may be uncomfortable and cause friction wounds and / or allergic reactions. A second purpose is that the tube 4 may prevent over-stretching of joints as the tube 4 can be made of a material, which is at least less elastic than the elastic part 1, and the tube 4 may help guiding the user during exercising. In general, the tube 4 can be made of a material, which cannot extend beyond a maximum limit defined by its length.

[0062] The tube normally comprises or is constituted of a textile or fabric, which may be woven or non-woven or knitted or the like. Alternatively, the tube 4 may be made of foam fabric, e.g., made from Polyethene, Polyurethane, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, or Styrene Butadiene Rubber.

[0063] In general, a tube 4 of a physical training unit according to the invention can be in a short state, in a fully elongated state, and in a medium state comprising all states between these two extreme states.

[0064] In general, the tube 4 is not elastic as such, but flexible, and the tube may fold or otherwise deform into a short state, i.e., when the tube 4 is not in the fully elongated state, the tube 4 may be folded or otherwise deformed into a reduced length. The folding or deformation may be random, or the folding or deformation may be predetermined as the fabric constituting the tube 4 may comprise folding line e.g. in form of weakened lines, which determine how the fabric is folded / deformed. Normally, the tube 4 is not folded or deformed when it is in the fully elongated state.

[0065] In general, the tube comprises tube connecting means 5, which means during use may either be attached to the non-elastic part 2, or which during use may be attached to a part combined with either the primary or secondary connecting means 3, 7. According to the embodiment of Fig. 2, the tube connecting means 5 are loops of wire or ribbon attached by sewing at each end of the tube 4.

[0066] The tube 4 may constituted of a fabric comprising at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 80% of a non-elastic fabric such as polyester or polypropylene, and up to 40%, or up to 30%, or up to 20% of an elastic fabric such as elastane.

[0067] Each of the two non-elastic parts 2 of Fig. 2 comprises secondary connecting means 7 in form of snap hooks, configured to attach the non-elastic part 2 to an anchoring part 8 of the body garment 9. In general, the secondary connecting means 7 may be releasable.

[0068] The non-elastic parts 2 of Fig. 2, are constituted of a strap, which forms a loop, and the size of the loop, and thereby the length of the non-elastic part 2, is determined by a length adjustments mechanism 6, which may comprise a combination of a locking part and an opening through where one end of the strap is inserted through the opening and the locking part is clicked into a position where the strap cannot move. Length adjustment mechanisms of this type are well-known, and a skilled person may choose any suitable mechanism.

[0069] Figure 5 illustrates an enlargement of a part of a physical training unit according to the invention. The enlargement shows an embodiment of where the non-elastic part 2 is positioned outside the tube 4. According to this embodiment, the tube connecting means 5 are attached to the non-elastic part 2 and therefore the non-elastic part 2 extends outside the tube 4 whereas the elastic part 1 is hidden inside the tube 4.

[0070] In general, the physical training unit may comprise a stretch sensor which is used to measure deformation and stretching forces. The stretch sensor may comprise an electrical conductor where the electrical resistance changes when the sensor is deformed, or a capacitor where the capacitance changes during deformation, or the sensor may comprise a piezo electric system where mechanical deformation is converted to an electric signal. Stretch sensors are known as such, and the sensor may be placed inside, within, or outside the tube 4, or alternatively either be part of the elastic part 1 or be attached to the elastic part 1 thereby measuring the deformation of the elastic part 1 during use.References

[0071] 1Elastic part 2Non-elastic part 3Primary connecting means 4Tube 5Tube connecting means 6Length adjustment mechanism 7Secondary connecting means 8Anchoring part 9Body garment

Claims

1. A physical training unit for use by a person, comprising - an elastic part (1) providing an elastic resistance during use, - at least one non-elastic part (2), - primary connecting means (3) configured to attach the elastic part (1) to the at least one non-elastic part (2), and - a tube (4) extending in a longitudinal direction and constituted of a flexible material, which tube (4) comprises tube connecting means (5) at each end of the tube (4) configured to attach each end of the tube (4) to a point or part beyond the elastic part (1) in such a way that the elastic part (1) is completely covered by the tube (4).

2. The physical training unit according to claim 1, wherein the tube (4) comprises or is constituted of a fabric, which may be woven, non-woven, knitted, or the like.

3. The physical training unit according to any one of the claims 1-2, wherein a) the tube (4) is not elastic but flexible and may be folded / deformed into a shorter form, and / or b) the tube (4) is constituted of a fabric comprising at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 80% of a non-elastic fabric, such as polyester or polypropylene, and up to 40%, or up to 30%, or up to 20% of an elastic fabric such as elastane.

4. The physical training unit according to any one of the claims 1-3, wherein the primary connecting means (3) are releasable, thereby allowing replacement of the elastic part (1) as well as adding or removing of elastic part(s)(1) to vary the elastic resistance.

5. The physical training unit according to any one of the claims 1-4, comprising two non-elastic parts (2), and two primary connecting means (3) configured to attach at least one elastic part (1) to both the two non-elastic parts (2).

6. The physical training unit according to any one of the claims 1-5, wherein the physical training unit further comprises secondary connecting means (7) configured to attach at least one non-elastic part (2) to an external anchoring part, wherein the secondary connecting means (7) may be releasable and may comprise a snap hook.

7. The physical training unit according to any one of the claims 1-6, wherein the non-elastic part (2) is constituted of a strap, which may comprise a length adjustment mechanism (6)8. The physical training unit according to any one of the claims 1-7, wherein the tube connecting means (5), during use, is attached to the non-elastic part (2), or to a part combined with either the primary or secondary connecting means (3,7).

9. A physical training system for use by a person, said physical training system comprising: - a physical training unit according to one of the claims 1-8, and - a body garment (9) comprising two or more anchoring parts (8) positioned at a distance and positioned relative to each other to allow bending, stretching and / or rotating of the user's joint, such as an elbow, a knee, an ankle, or a shoulder.

10. The physical training system according to claim 9, wherein the body garment (9) comprises straps, or the like, fastened to the user's body.

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