Exercise rope and method of application thereof

The exercise rope with elastic nylon loops and a securing device addresses the limitations of existing aids by enabling versatile three-dimensional exercises, reducing joint stress, and supporting users' body parts, enhancing flexibility and muscle strength safely and affordably.

JP2025133723APending Publication Date: 2025-09-11吉田幸江
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025031552
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-03-01
Filing Date
2025-02-28
Publication Date
2025-09-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing exercise aids, such as those described in Patent Document 1, are limited in their range of applications, unsuitable for three-dimensional exercises, and do not allow for the use of a user's own weight or vertical support during exercises, making them less versatile and less suitable for a wide range of users, particularly the elderly.

Method used

An exercise rope with multiple circular loops, made of elastic nylon, at least 8 meters long, with loops large enough to fit feet and palms, allowing for three-dimensional exercises and adjustable to reduce joint stress, and equipped with a securing device for stable hanging.

Benefits of technology

The exercise rope provides a wide range of users, including the elderly, with high freedom in location and exercise form, supporting body parts three-dimensionally, reducing joint stress, and enabling exercises that improve flexibility, muscle strength, and posture, while being safe and cost-effective.

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Abstract

To provide an exercise rope which is comparatively simple, safe, and inexpensive, which has high degree of freedom for a place, for objective persons in a wide range including the elderly, and also particularly which can support a user position in the exercise, at an unconditionally high degree of freedom and three-dimensionally including high direction.SOLUTION: An exercise rope 1 to be provided is an exercise rope which is hung close to a user and fixedly used for exercise. The rope is composed of an elastic nylon rope, with a length longer than 8 meters at a point before forming a ring 2. It has more than 5 nearly circular rings 2 that are formed by tying the rope, and the inner diameter of each ring 2 can each pass the legs and palms of the user but is structured in a size unable to pass the head of the user. The rope may have an instrument 3 that is additionally used for the purpose of hanging and fixing the rope.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a rope primarily used for exercise, and more particularly to a rope useful for exercises such as those for maintaining and improving physical function, stretching exercises, rehabilitation exercises, etc., and to how to use the rope. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART When performing exercises such as stretching exercises and rehabilitation exercises for maintaining and improving physical functions, various assistive devices have been proposed from the viewpoints of improving effectiveness, safety, a wide range of applicability, enjoyment, etc.

[0003] In this regard, the exercise aid of Patent Document 1 is made by braiding three string-like bodies made of a stretchable, elastic material such as rubber into a single main body, and tying both ends of the body into a ring-shaped handle large enough to hold a finger. This prevents the braid from coming undone, and the main body and the ring-shaped portion for hooking the finger are integrally molded. By hooking a finger into the ring-shaped portions at both ends of the body and performing a stretching exercise, the tension of the stretchable rubber can be used as one of the antagonistic muscles. By braiding the string-like bodies, even if one of the string-like bodies breaks, the body will not immediately come undone. This allows various beneficial effects to be obtained by loosening and relaxing various parts of the body through stretching exercises on a daily basis, and solves the problem of providing an exercise aid for stretching exercises that makes use of the properties of rubber tubing and that takes into consideration the elasticity rate and safety from the perspective of human kinematics. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3132216 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the exercise assist device in the above-mentioned document 1 is basically designed to stretch by hooking the user's fingers, so although it is easy to use, the range of possible applications is relatively narrow. Also, since it is not intended to be fixed or hung in a location close to the user, it is not suitable for utilizing the user's own weight during exercise or for performing three-dimensional exercises by utilizing the height direction, or for creating a fulcrum during exercise.

[0006] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an exercise rope that allows a wide range of people, including the elderly, to exercise relatively easily, safely, and inexpensively, with a high degree of freedom in location, and in particular, to provide an exercise rope that can support the user's body parts three-dimensionally, including vertically, during exercise with a higher degree of freedom than conventional exercise ropes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] As a means for solving the above problem, the exercise rope according to claim 1 is an exercise rope that is hung and fixed close to the user for use in exercise, and is characterized by having two or more approximately circular loops formed by tying the rope.

[0008] Furthermore, the exercise rope according to claim 2, in addition to the means described in claim 1, is characterized in that the exercise rope is made of elastic nylon rope, is at least 8 meters long before the loops are formed, has five or more loops, and the inner diameter of each loop is large enough to fit the user's feet and palms but not the user's head. The elastic nylon rope allows for adjustment to reduce stress on joints and other parts of the body during exercise. The length of the rope is at least 8 meters before the loops are formed, and the number of loops is five or more, allowing for a wider range of exercises to be performed in a variety of situations. The inner diameter of each loop is large enough to fit the user's feet and palms but not the user's head, reducing the possibility of accidents occurring with the rope being hung.

[0009] The exercise rope according to claim 3 is characterized in that, in addition to the exercise rope according to claim 1 or 2, it further comprises an additional device used to hang and secure the exercise rope. This allows the exercise rope to be stably hung and secured even when a suitable hanging point cannot be found in the desired environment.

[0010] The method of using an exercise rope according to claim 4 is the method of using an exercise rope according to claim 1 or 2, and is for the purpose of providing rehabilitation, assistance in walking on one's own, and exercise to improve upper body function for users who have difficulty walking, by supporting the soles of the user's feet with the rings and lifting the rope with the strength of the user's arms and upper body, thereby assisting the user in walking. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The effect of the invention is to provide an exercise rope that allows a wide range of people, including the elderly, to exercise relatively easily, safely, and inexpensively, with a high degree of freedom in location, and in particular, to provide an exercise rope that allows unprecedented freedom in supporting the user's body parts three-dimensionally, including vertically, during exercise. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing the state in which the exercise rope according to the embodiment is hung using a device for hanging and fixing the rope. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a front view showing the state in which the exercise rope according to the embodiment is hung and fixed. [Figure 3] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating how to use the exercise rope according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating how to use the exercise rope according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating how to use the exercise rope according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating how to use the exercise rope according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating how to use the exercise rope according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating how to use the exercise rope according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating how to use the exercise rope according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing how the exercise rope is used as a walking aid. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Rope exercise is an exercise method that uses nylon rope, and is an easy self-exercise that takes advantage of the elasticity of nylon. The concept is that anyone (especially the elderly) can do it easily, safely, inexpensively, and anywhere. It is fun, has a high degree of freedom, is easy to get the benefits of exercise, and can be continued. It is the result of self-help efforts, and by taking care of the body that is suffering from pain, it is possible to provide tools to establish a happy way of life for the future.

[0014] During the prototype and testing, elderly people were able to do exercises that are usually impossible to do. They did squats, lost belly fat, adjusted their spine, adjusted their fascia, and focused on their muscles. It was a great pleasure to be able to massage and adjust their body by themselves in just 3 to 5 minutes. Its features and effects are basically aimed at improving the flexibility of the soft tissues in the lower limbs that attach to the joints by utilizing the elasticity of nylon rope. (1) Muscle relaxation (2) Maintain good posture (3) Muscles stretch (4) Strengthening muscles, strengthening inner muscles, assisting with squats, etc. (5) Quickly correct pain and posture (6) Strengthen each of your toes and limbs to help prevent falls (7) Improved flexibility of multiple joints (8) Stimulating cranial nerves using visual feedback (9) Stimulation of the sole of the foot (10) Strengthening imagination through the planning of over 1,000 programs (11) A synergistic effect can be expected when used in conjunction with heat therapy or other methods to warm the body and improve blood circulation.

[0015] These are the examples given: -It can be done with a space of half a tatami mat. The elasticity of the nylon rope reduces stress on the joints. - Length and height can be adjusted freely to suit individual body types -Three-dimensional space can be used to create a fulcrum anywhere, allowing for greater freedom of movement - You can create an exercise environment at low cost The load can be adjusted to make it as strong as a weight or as light as a walking stick. There are benefits such as: Anyone can take this course, but it is especially recommended for the elderly.

[0016] A physical therapist who is a relative of the inventor also praised the product, saying, "It is effective for people who suffer from numbness in the limbs, hip pain, lower back pain, shoulder pain, etc. due to stiffness throughout the body, people who need to lose weight, and especially for people with osteoarthritis of the knee, as it reduces the load on the feet."

[0017] The following describes the embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0018] Figure 1 is a front view showing an exercise rope according to an embodiment of the present invention, hung using a device for hanging and securing it. The provided exercise rope 1 is an exercise rope that is hung and secured close to the user for use during exercise. It is made of an elastic nylon rope, is at least 8 meters long before the loops 2 are formed, and has at least five roughly circular loops 2 formed by tying the rope together, with the inner diameter of each loop 2 being large enough to fit the user's feet and palms through but not the user's head. A hook 3 is used as an additional device for hanging and securing the rope. The nylon material provides excellent elasticity and maintains excellent durability. The rope used was 11 mm in diameter, which is easy to grip and provides stability.

[0019] The moderate elasticity does not put strain on the body, especially the joints, and the resilience can be used to stimulate the muscles. The rope is over 8 meters long before the loops are formed, and Exercise Rope 1 comes with seven Loops 2. These Loops 2 are where you place your hands, feet, and other parts of your body. This number of Loops 2 allows for a variety of exercises to be performed for different parts of the body, making it suitable for a wide range of exercises in a variety of situations.

[0020] The size of Ring 2 is about 40 to 45 centimeters in circumference, so it is too small for the user or even an infant's head to get inside, but it is large enough to easily fit both hands and feet inside, preventing accidents. By adjusting it, you can change the spacing, the number of rings 2, their angle, position and size. Exercise Rope 1 requires the rope to be suspended and secured at a height of approximately 3 meters. Depending on the part of the body being exercised, the rope should be able to withstand a load of approximately one-third of your body weight.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, secure it to a beam (it is better to wrap it in a towel to protect it from damage), or to a suitable tree outdoors as shown in Figure 3 using a bowline knot. Other examples include fixing it to ceiling pillars, hanging devices, pull-up devices, and tension rods for hammocks. Depending on the environment, it can be easily installed using a carabiner or a hook 3, which is an additional device used to hang and secure an exercise rope, as shown in Figure 1. These can be installed on the ceiling side or on the rope side, and you can also use something soft to grip, such as a towel, as a grip cover.

[0022] Figure 3 below shows how to use the exercise rope 1. The basic role of the exercise rope 1 is to support the hands, feet, buttocks or back of the human body with the rope loops 2, and to help the person exercise by moving their own body in the desired direction using their own weight and strength. In addition to improving the flexibility of the soft tissues of the lower limbs that attach to the joints, it can also be used for stretching at an angle, and has an effect on the arms, shoulders, back, armpits, etc. There are various ways to perform the exercise, but for example, "Waist exercise": Hold a loop at shoulder height with both hands and move it back and forth (or in any direction you like). "Shoulder blade stretch" Hold the loop at the position of your hands with both hands and move it back and forth. "Hip stretch" Place the heel of one foot on a loop at waist height and move it back and forth. "Hip joint exercise" Place the heel of one foot on a waist-high ring and bend and straighten the knee. etc. are possible.

[0023] Figures 3 and 4 show an example of how to use the device while standing. If you are able to walk, we recommend doing this exercise in a standing position. You can place your feet in the rings and stretch your legs, exercise your thigh and abdominal muscles, or use it as an aid for squats.

[0024] Figures 5, 6, and 7 show an example of how to use the device in a sitting position. It can also be used by wheelchair users. You can stretch and exercise your lower limbs, back, armpits, shoulders, arms, etc.

[0025] Figures 8 and 9 show an example of how to use the device in the supine position. Even those who are bedridden can perform the exercises. Place your feet in the rings and stretch your legs. You can also support your knee joints with your hands. This can be used as an aid for abdominal exercises as well as for stretching and exercises for various parts of the body. It can also be used to train for rolling over and getting up.

[0026] Figure 10 shows how Exercise Rope 1 can be used as a walking aid rather than for hanging. This exercise aid is designed for people with walking difficulties to perform rehabilitation, assist with walking independently, and improve upper body function. It supports the soles of the user's feet with a ring and allows the user to lift the foot using their arms and upper body (assisting and assisting in lifting). It can be used on either foot or both feet (using two exercise ropes, for example). Its use depends on the situation, including the degree of walking difficulty, physical strength (including upper body strength), surrounding environment, and the assistance of a caregiver.

[0027] Physiotherapists have given it particular praise, stating that "as people get older and have fewer opportunities to walk, the stimulation from the soles of their feet decreases, so using a rope to stimulate the soles of the feet is a shortcut to health."

[0028] By the way, I developed my invention mainly from the perspective of "tying" ropes, so I will describe it here. To attach the Exercise Rope 1 to a ceiling or other surface, a bowline knot can be used to create a strong loop at the end of the rope, ensuring a highly secure installation. The exercise rope 1 according to the embodiment allows for greater freedom of movement than conventional ropes, allowing for three-dimensional exercises and creating a fulcrum for exercise. However, by hanging two ropes from one user, this effect can be further enhanced. In other words, exercises for both hands and limbs can be performed at various three-dimensional angles, resulting in an expanded range of motion. Hanging two ropes can be done by using two exercise ropes, but depending on the environment and rope length, it can also be done by hanging and securing the middle part of one exercise rope. In the latter case, when tying a rope to secure it, the knotting method should be determined taking into consideration the purpose of use and stability.

[0029] In addition, the exercise rope 1 in the embodiment can be provided in a design that can accommodate a wide range of users and also takes into consideration the reduction of the possibility of accidents, but it is possible to adjust it to change the spacing between the loops 2, or to change the number, angle, position, and size of the loops 2. Here, it is also possible to prepare the required amount of rope separate from the exercise rope itself, and use a "double fisherman's knot" and a "prusik" to attach the separate rope as a loop to the exercise rope itself, thereby providing an exercise rope with a loop that can be moved and easily adjusted. Loop 2 can be easily made by using the "Yoroi knot" to make the knot, but in addition, the size of knot 4 of exercise rope 1 in the example will be effective for the exercise described below.

[0030] If you tie an 11mm diameter elastic nylon rope in an "armored knot", you can make the knot 4 roughly the size and shape of a chicken egg. A chicken egg is approximately 6.0 centimeters long and 4.4 centimeters wide. Unlike a sphere, this shape has different lengths in both the vertical and horizontal directions, making it suitable for a variety of grips. For example, if you cannot straighten your fingers, you can practice gripping them horizontally and spreading them out, and if you cannot bend your fingers, you can practice gripping them vertically and closing them. Some of the benefits of exercise you can expect include: Prevents tendonitis, joint pain, and contractures Even those with deformities such as rheumatism or trigger finger can practice gripping with less strain. Preventing inconvenience in the following activities of daily living - Unable to carry heavy items for long periods of time when shopping · Can't open glass or plastic bottles Twist-type doors are difficult to open - Dropping things often Difficulty eating

[0031] In terms of muscles, the muscles used in rope gripping are the forearm muscles and hand muscles. The forearm muscles are the group of muscles from the wrist to the elbow, and include the brachioradialis, supinator, and flexor digitorum superficialis. They play a major role in gripping and twisting the wrist, and are used by moving each finger, so they are easy to train. Regarding the muscles of the hand, in order to exert a strong grip, it is important that the muscles of the forearm and the muscles of the hand work together. The flexor digitorum is a muscle that runs from the inside of the elbow to the fingers, and has the function of bending the fingers and wrist, so even people with deformed fingers can easily follow a thin rope and grasp it.

[0032] Regarding joints, rope grip involves the CM joint at the base of the thumb, the radiocarpal joint in the wrist, the thumb-carpal joint, and the interphalangeal joint. The CM joint is located at the base of the thumb and allows for flexible movement when grasping and gripping objects. As we age, the cartilage wears away, making us more susceptible to arthritis and other diseases that cause pain and bone deformation. As the condition progresses, bones come into direct contact with each other without the intermediary of cartilage, causing severe pain. The radiocarpal joint is the wrist joint, made up of the radius bone in the forearm and the carpal bones in the palm of the hand. This joint is called a condylar joint and is biaxial, allowing for limited circular motion. The carpal joint of the thumb, also known as the thumb joint, is a joint called a saddle joint. The protruding joint surface of one bone is shaped like a saddle, and the other bone fits into it. Due to the structure of these joints, the load applied to the body changes depending on the direction of the exercise. The rope grip allows you to pull from various directions, allowing you to adjust the load to suit your needs while avoiding pain. [Explanation of symbols]

[0033] 1 exercise rope 2 rings 3 Hooks 4. Knot

Claims

1. An exercise rope that is hung and fixed in a place close to the user and used for exercise, An exercise rope characterized by having two or more approximately circular loops formed by tying the rope.

2. The exercise rope is made of elastic nylon rope and has a length of at least 8 meters before forming a loop. The number of the rings is five or more, and the inner diameter of each ring is large enough to fit the user's feet and palms, but not the user's head.

2. The exercise rope of claim 1.

3. With additional equipment for hanging and securing exercise ropes 3. The exercise rope according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A method of using the exercise rope according to claim 1 or 2, For users who have difficulty walking, this product is designed to help with rehabilitation, assist with walking on your own, and improve upper body function. The ring supports the soles of the user's feet, How to use an exercise rope that assists walking by lifting the user with the strength of their arms and upper body.

5. The approximately circular loop formed by tying the rope has a knot that is approximately egg-shaped, The knot can be used to perform rope grip exercises.

3. The exercise rope according to claim 1 or 2.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Exercise aid

    JP3132216U