Computer, program, and recording medium that support body enhancement method

Abstract

To provide a body enhancement method capable of effectively enhancing a body.SOLUTION: A body enhancement method of enhancing a body of a subject includes: a step S11 of inputting body information of the subject to a computer; steps S16 and S18 of causing the computer to output an enhancement menu of applying an electrical stimulation simultaneously to a first muscle and a second muscle having an antagonistic muscle relationship with each other of the subject, on the basis of the body information; and a step S20 of executing the enhancement menu output by the computer to enhance the body of the subject.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a body strengthening method for strengthening the body of a subject, a computer that assists the body strengthening method, a program that causes a computer to execute processing, and a recording medium on which the program is recorded. [Background technology]

[0002] An example of a muscle stimulation method, which is an example of a physical strengthening method for strengthening the body of a subject, is described in Patent Document 1. The muscle stimulation method described in Patent Document 1 is an exercise in which a joint is flexed or extended by a closed kinetic chain, in which, when an agonist muscle is contracting, an antagonist muscle is electrically stimulated to cause centrifugal contraction.

[0003] Specifically, this is a method of electrically stimulating muscles, based on information about the joint angles that change with exercise, and within a predetermined range of electrical stimulation strength that the user can tolerate, by applying electrical stimulation to the antagonist muscles at the beginning of the exercise with an intensity that causes the antagonist muscles to produce a contractile force that is sufficiently smaller than the contractile force of the agonist muscles during exercise, and gradually increasing the intensity of the electrical stimulation towards the end of the exercise, or by applying electrical stimulation of a predetermined intensity that causes appropriate muscle contraction of the antagonist muscles for each joint angle towards the end of the exercise. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-253539 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The inventors of the present application have recognized that although the muscle stimulation method described in Patent Document 1 adjusts skeletal and muscular balance and can restore the original balance of the body, there is still room for improvement.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a body strengthening method that enables more effective body strengthening, and a computer, program, and recording medium that support the body strengthening method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a physical strengthening method for strengthening the body of a subject, the physical strengthening method including a first step of inputting the subject's physical information into a computer, a second step of causing the computer to output a strengthening menu for simultaneously applying electrical stimulation to a first muscle and a second muscle of the subject that are in an antagonistic muscle relationship based on the physical information, and a third step of executing the strengthening menu output by the computer to strengthen the body of the subject. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a body strengthening method that can strengthen the body more effectively can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of a body strengthening system used in the body strengthening method of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a body strengthening method of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a body strengthening method of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 10 is a chart showing an example of information about a subject. [Figure 5] 10 is a time chart showing an example of timing at which stimuli are applied by a plurality of stimulators. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Summary) In this embodiment, an example of a physical strengthening method, an assistance computer that assists the physical strengthening method, a program that causes the assistance computer to execute processing, and a recording medium on which the program is recorded are disclosed with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a physical strengthening system 40 that assists the physical strengthening method. The physical strengthening system 40 includes an assistance computer 14 and a stimulator 10. The assistance computer 14 is operated by a supporter, for example, an instructor P2, who assists a subject P1 in executing the physical strengthening method.

[0011] The support computer 14 may also be connected to a subject terminal 30 via a network 22. The subject terminal 30 is a computer operated by the subject P1.

[0012] The body strengthening method can also be understood as a muscle stimulation method or a muscle strengthening method. In the body strengthening method, the body (human body) of the subject P1 is strengthened by simultaneously applying electrical stimulation to "a pair of first and second muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" among the muscles that make up the subject P1. The body strengthening method also includes applying electrical stimulation to the two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship and training each muscle.

[0013] (Description of muscles to be strengthened) The bending and straightening of joints in the human body involves multiple muscles. The muscles that directly initiate the movement are called agonists, while the muscles that perform the opposite movement are called antagonists. Antagonist muscles protect the joint structure (ligaments, cartilage, etc.) by slowing down the speed of joint movement and stopping the joint movement. Specifically, when bending a joint, the muscles that bend it, i.e., the agonists, exert force, while the muscles that straighten it, i.e., the antagonists, relax.

[0014] In this embodiment, two muscles in an antagonistic relationship are a combination of a agonist muscle and an antagonist muscle when moving a joint. Here, the two muscles in an antagonistic relationship have opposing actions when the joint moves (reciprocal inhibition). The antagonist muscles described in this embodiment are different from general antagonist muscles. In this embodiment, the antagonistic relationship is defined as a relationship in which, when one muscle contracts, the antagonistic muscle is inhibited, causing it to soften or relax. In other words, the meaning of the antagonist muscles described in this embodiment is slightly different from that of antagonist muscles described in textbooks. In this embodiment, there are several example combinations of two muscles in an antagonistic relationship, as shown in Figure 2.

[0015] ·Upper body The combination of the serratus anterior muscle of the scapula and the rhomboid muscles (rhomboid major and rhomboid minor). The combination of the subscapularis muscle of the shoulder joint and the triceps brachii, especially the long head. The combination of the flexor carpi radialis and flexor carpi ulnaris of the wrist. The combination of the thenar muscles and thenar muscles of the fingers.

[0016] ·Lower body The combination of the iliopsoas muscle, which runs from the waist to the hip joint, and the multifidus muscle (including the transverse abdominis muscle). The combination of the medial hamstrings (semitendinosus and semimembranosus) and the adductor muscles (especially the adductor magnus) of the knee joint. The combination of the posterior tibialis muscle of the ankle and the peroneal muscles (peroneus longus and peroneus brevis muscles). The combination of the thenar muscles of the toes and the thenar muscles of the digitorum minimus.

[0017] (Explanation of the stimulator that applies electrical stimulation to muscles) Methods of applying electrical stimulation to muscles include, for example, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy, electric muscle stimulation (EMS) therapy, and microcurrent therapy. All of these therapies are performed using a stimulator 10 as shown in FIG. 1. The stimulator 10 includes a first stimulator 10A and a second stimulator 10B that are provided separately. The first stimulator 10A and the second stimulator 10B have the same structure and function.

[0018] The stimulator 10 includes electric pads 11 and 12 that apply electricity to the muscles of the subject P1, a controller 13 connected to the electric pads 11 and 12 via cords, and a communication interface 41. The electric pad 11 corresponds to the positive electrode (plus), and the electric pad 12 corresponds to the negative electrode (minus). A pair of electric pads 11 and 12 are attached to one muscle. In other words, the electric pads 11 and 12 of the two stimulators 10 are attached to two muscles that are in an antagonistic relationship, respectively.

[0019] The controller 13 is a computer having a processor and a memory. The processor has a central processing unit and a control circuit. The controller 13 is provided with an operating member that controls the output of AC current. The subject P1 can operate the operating member. The operating member includes a lever, a switch, a knob, etc. The output of AC current changes periodically, and the frequency is the number of changes in the output of AC current per unit time, for example, per second.

[0020] The controller 13 controls the output of electricity (AC) flowing to each of the electric pads 11 and 12, i.e., the current value, voltage (potential), frequency, etc. The controller 13 can switch the frequency of the AC current flowing to the electric pads 11 and 12 between multiple ranges, for example, a first range, a second range, and a third range. In the first range, the frequency is controlled at a low frequency ranging from 0.1 Hz to 1,000 Hz. When the frequency of the AC current is in the first range, muscles are stimulated at a location close to the surface of the skin. In the second range, the frequency is controlled at a low frequency ranging from above 1,000 Hz to 10,000 Hz. When the frequency of the AC current is in the second range, muscles are stimulated at a depth of 2 to 3 cm below the skin, deeper than in the first range. In the third range, the frequency is controlled at a frequency above 10,000 Hz. When the frequency of the AC current is in the third range, muscles are stimulated at a depth of about 10 cm below the skin, deeper than in the second range.

[0021] The communication interface 41 can be connected to the support computer 14 and the subject terminal 30 via the network 22. The communication interface 41 is communicably connected to the controller 13. Therefore, the stimulator 10 can acquire information about the body strengthening method from the support computer 14 and the subject terminal 30. The controller 13 can control the electricity to be supplied to the electric pads 11 and 12 based on the acquired information.

[0022] (Explanation of a computer that assists in physical strengthening methods) The support computer 14 that supports the body strengthening method is installed, for example, in a sports gym or the like. The support computer 14 includes a main body (casing), a processor 20, a main memory 21, an auxiliary memory 18, an input device 16, an output device 17, a communication interface 19, and the like. The main body is made of metal, synthetic resin, or the like. The processor 20 is provided inside the main body and is made up of a central processing unit (CPU (Central Processing Unit)) that integrates an arithmetic unit (arithmetic circuit) and a control device (control circuit). The processor 20 is communicably connected to the main memory 21, the auxiliary memory 18, the input device 16, the output device 17, the communication interface 19, and the like via a bus 15.

[0023] The processor 20 comprehensively controls other devices and circuits provided inside the main body as well as devices and circuits provided outside the main body. In other words, the processor 20 is configured to process various types of information. Information includes data, and processing includes calculation, judgment, comparison, control, etc. The processing executed by the processor 20 includes reading information from the auxiliary memory 18, processing and judgment of information obtained from the outside, and adding, changing, and updating information stored in the auxiliary memory 18.

[0024] The processor 20 is configured to be started by reading applications and programs stored in the auxiliary memory 18, and to function as an input information processing unit 20A, an enhanced menu processing unit 20B, and an aptitude determination unit 20C. The input information processing unit 20A processes information input from the input device 16 and information acquired from the target user terminal 30. The enhanced menu processing unit 20B executes processing to generate an enhanced menu based on the information processed by the input information processing unit 20A and the information stored in the auxiliary memory 18.

[0025] Furthermore, the reinforcement menu processing unit 20B executes a process of storing the reinforcement menu in the auxiliary memory 18, a process of outputting the reinforcement menu on the output device 17, a process of sending the reinforcement menu to the subject terminal 30, and a process of sending information from the reinforcement menu relating to the control of the stimulator 10 to the stimulator 10. The suitability determination unit 20C determines whether the reinforcement menu selected by the subject P1 is suitable based on the physical information of the subject P1.

[0026] The main memory 21 is a volatile storage device that functions as a work area and a buffer area when the processor 20 executes processing. The auxiliary memory 18 is a nonvolatile storage device that stores non-transient applications and non-transient programs. The processor 20 is configured to load non-transient applications and non-transient programs and execute processing. The auxiliary memory 18 also stores information to be processed by the processor. Information stored in the auxiliary memory 18 includes data such as letters, numbers, sentences, symbols, figures, illustrations, barcodes, videos (images), videos, still images, photographs, and signals. The processor 20 loads the applications and programs stored in the auxiliary memory 18 and executes processing.

[0027] The auxiliary memory 18 has a larger capacity than the main memory 21, and operates in response to input and output instructions from the processor 20. The auxiliary memory 18 includes, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a flash memory, etc. Examples of magnetic disks include hard disk drives, and examples of optical disks include compact disks, digital video disks, and Blu-ray disks. Flash memory is a type of semiconductor memory, and examples of flash memory include SD memory cards, USB flash drives, and solid-state drives. At least one element included in the auxiliary memory 18 corresponds to a non-transitory recording medium 18A on which non-transitory applications, non-transitory programs, and various types of information are stored, i.e., recorded.

[0028] Examples of information stored in the auxiliary memory 18 include the following: The auxiliary memory 18 stores one or more of illustrations, still images, and videos showing multiple combinations of "two antagonistic muscles" and the positions where the electric pads 11 and 12 are attached to the "two antagonistic muscles." Here, the "position" does not mean the position of the muscle itself, but the position where the electric pads 11 and 12 are attached to each muscle.

[0029] The auxiliary memory 18 also stores one or more of illustrations, still images, and videos showing the positions where the electric pads 11 and 12 should be attached to either of the "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" or to the muscles in a "synergist muscle relationship." Here, the "position" does not mean the position of the muscle itself, but the position where the electric pads 11 and 12 should be attached to each muscle.

[0030] The auxiliary memory 18 also stores output patterns of AC currents to be applied to muscles from the electric pads 11 and 12 for each of a plurality of combinations of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship." Furthermore, the auxiliary memory 18 also stores output patterns of AC currents to be applied to muscles from the electric pads 11 and 12 in correspondence with "synergist muscles."

[0031] The auxiliary memory 18 also stores conditions for combining "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship." Here, the conditions for combining "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" are physical information of the subject P1, which includes the lifestyle of the subject P1, the posture of the subject P1 at work, the sports the subject P1 is involved in, and muscle diseases, joint diseases, nerve diseases, circulatory disorders, etc. The auxiliary memory 18 also stores, for each of multiple combinations of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship," a training menu for moving the joints so that the muscles are stretched and contracted.

[0032] This includes the posture of the subject P1 during training, the training parts of the subject P1 (joints and muscles), the direction and degree of bending the joint, the number of times the joint is stretched, the number of times the joint is moved, the duration of the bent state of the joint, equipment that can be used for training, etc. Equipment that can be used for training is something that applies load to the muscles, and examples of equipment include a stretching ball, a balance ball, elastic cords, weights, etc.

[0033] The input device 16 is a device operated by an operator to input and output data, information, signals, etc. to and from the assistance computer 14, or controlled by the processor 20. The input device 16 is also operated by an operator to select processing and control to be performed by the assistance computer 14, or controlled by the processor 20. The input device 16 includes, for example, a keyboard, a touchpad, a mouse, a joystick, an image scanner, a digital camera, a microphone, various sensors, etc. Information input to the assistance computer 14 by the input device 16 includes, for example, data such as letters, numbers, sentences, symbols, figures, barcodes, videos (images), videos, still images, photographs, and signals. By operating the input device 16, the operator can input to the assistance computer 14 information such as the subject P1's lifestyle habits, the sports the subject P1 is involved in, and the subject P1's muscular disorders, joint disorders, nerve disorders, and circulatory disorders.

[0034] The output device 17 is a device that outputs information and data from the support computer 14. The output device 17 includes, for example, a monitor (display), a printer, a projector, a speaker, and the like.

[0035] The monitor can display a screen on which the operator operates the input device 16 to input the lifestyle habits of the subject P1, the sports the subject P1 is involved in, and the subject P1's muscle disorders, joint disorders, nerve disorders, circulatory disorders, etc. The monitor can also display one or more of illustrations, still images, and videos showing multiple combinations of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" and the positions where the electric pads 11, 12 are attached to the "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship."

[0036] The monitor can also display the output pattern of AC current applied to the muscles from the stimulator 10 for each of multiple combinations of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship." Furthermore, the monitor can display the conditions for combining "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship." Furthermore, the monitor can display a menu of training that the subject P1 can do, such as the type of training and the equipment that can be used for the training.

[0037] The communication interface 19 includes devices, equipment, and standards for connecting the support computer 14 to the network 22 via at least one of a wireless communication system and a wired communication system. Devices and equipment for connecting the support computer 14 to the network 22 include cables, antennas, routers, etc.

[0038] (An example of a physical strengthening method) An example of a physical strengthening method is shown in the flowchart of FIG. 3. For convenience, an example will be described in which the subject terminal 30 is not used. In step S11, the input device 16 is operated to input information about the subject P1 to the assistance computer 14. The information about the subject P1 includes, for example, the subject P1's identification number, name, telephone number, email address, and physical information, as shown in FIG. 4. The physical information about the subject P1 includes the subject P1's lifestyle habits, the sports the subject P1 is involved in, and the subject P1's muscle diseases, joint diseases, circulatory disorders, etc.

[0039] The lifestyle habits of subject P1 include standing in the same posture for a predetermined period of time or more, sitting in a chair for a predetermined period of time or more, etc. The sports include, for example, soccer, baseball, swimming, volleyball, basketball, table tennis, tennis, judo, karate, etc. The processor 20 processes the information of subject P1 and stores the information of subject P1 in the auxiliary memory 18 in step S12.

[0040] In step S13 following step S12, processor 20 also displays a strengthening menu on the monitor of output device 17. As shown in Fig. 2, the strengthening menu displays multiple combinations of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship," types of training suitable for strengthening "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship," equipment that can be used for that training, and the like.

[0041] The subject P1 can select one of the strengthening menus in step S14 by operating the input device 16. Then, the processor 20 determines in step S15 whether the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by the subject P1 is suitable, based on the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by the subject P1 and the above-mentioned physical information.

[0042] For example, if it is estimated that the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by subject P1 will contribute to improving the skill of the sport that subject P1 is engaged in, it is determined that subject P1 has aptitude. On the other hand, if it is estimated that the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by subject P1 will not contribute to improving the skill of the sport that subject P1 is engaged in, it is determined that subject P1 does not have aptitude.

[0043] Furthermore, if it is estimated that the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" selected by subject P1 will contribute to the improvement of subject P1's muscle disease or joint disease, it is determined that subject P1 is suitable. On the other hand, if it is estimated that the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" selected by subject P1 will not contribute to the improvement of subject P1's muscle disease or joint disease, it is determined that subject P1 is not suitable.

[0044] Furthermore, if it is estimated that the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by subject P1 will contribute to promoting blood circulation in subject P1 based on subject P1's lifestyle habits and posture in daily life, it is determined that subject P1 is suitable. On the other hand, if it is estimated that the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by subject P1 will not contribute to promoting blood circulation in subject P1, it is determined that subject P1 is not suitable.

[0045] If the processor 20 determines in step S15 that the subject P1 is suitable, that is, if the processor 20 determines Yes in step S15, then in step S16 the strengthening menu selected by the subject P1 is displayed. Specifically, one or more of an illustration, a still image, and a video showing the positions where the electric pads 11 and 12 should be attached are displayed on the monitor of the output device 17 in correspondence with the combination of two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship.

[0046] Also, the output pattern of the AC current applied from the stimulator 10 to the muscles is displayed on the monitor of the output device 17 in correspondence with the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by the subject P1. Furthermore, the types of training that the subject P1 can do and the equipment that can be used are displayed on the monitor of the output device 17 in correspondence with the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" selected by the subject P1.

[0047] On the other hand, if processor 20 determines in step S15 that the training is not suitable, that is, if processor 20 determines No in step S15, processor 20 selects in step S17 a strengthening menu whose contents are determined to be suitable in step S15. Then, processor 20 outputs the strengthening menu selected in step S17 on output device 17 in step S18. More specifically, processor 20 displays on the monitor of output device 17 one or more of an illustration, a still image, and a video showing the positions at which electric pads 11 and 12 should be attached, in correspondence with the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" extracted by processor 20.

[0048] The output pattern of the AC current applied from the stimulator 10 to the muscles is displayed on the monitor of the output device 17 in correspondence with the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" extracted by the processor 20. In addition, the types of training that the subject P1 can do and the equipment that can be used for the training are displayed on the monitor of the output device 17 in correspondence with the combination of "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" extracted by the processor 20.

[0049] When the processor 20 executes either the processing of step S16 or the processing of step S18, it can display on the monitor of the output device 17 information that differentiates the frequency range of the alternating current flowing to the electric pads 11, 12 of the first stimulus applicator 10A from the frequency range of the alternating current flowing to the electric pads 11, 12 of the second stimulus applicator 10B.

[0050] In step S19 following step S16 or step S18, the subject P1 operates the input device 16 to finally select either the reinforcement menu selected by the subject P1 himself or the reinforcement menu selected by the support computer 14, and in step S20, the finally selected reinforcement menu is executed. The processor 20 stores the reinforcement menu finally selected by the subject P1 in step S19 in the auxiliary memory 18. The processor 20 can also send a part of the reinforcement menu finally selected by the subject P1, for example, an electrical current pattern, to the stimulator 10 via the network 22 in step S19.

[0051] When subject P1 executes the strengthening menu in step S20, instructor P2 may instruct subject P1 while visually monitoring the monitor of output device 17, or subject P1 may execute the strengthening menu by himself or herself while visually monitoring the monitor. In step S20, subject P1 attaches two electric pads 11 and 12 of stimulator 10 to "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship." Subject P1 can then operate controller 13 of stimulator 10 himself or herself to simultaneously pass an alternating current through the "two muscles in an antagonistic muscle relationship" to stimulate them. Controller 13 of stimulator 10 can also obtain information regarding the strengthening menu from support computer 14 and automatically control the current to be passed through two electric pads 11 and 12 of stimulator 10 based on the obtained information.

[0052] Here, "simultaneously passing an AC current through two antagonistic muscles" means that "a predetermined period of time from the start to the end of passing an AC current through the agonist muscle" and "a predetermined period of time from the start to the end of passing an AC current through the antagonist muscle" overlap at least partially. The predetermined period of time is, for example, 20 minutes or less, and effects have been confirmed even for periods of 5 minutes or less.

[0053] Furthermore, when there are multiple stimulators 10, examples of electrical stimulation application patterns (energization patterns) performed by the first stimulator 10A and the second stimulator 10B are shown in Figure 5. The first pattern is shown in the upper part of Figure 5, the second pattern is shown in the middle part, and the third pattern is shown in the lower part. Stimulation ON means that electricity is applied to the stimulator 10 and stimulation is applied. Stimulation OFF means that electricity is not applied to the stimulator 10 and stimulation is not applied.

[0054] The first pattern is an example in which the timing at which the first stimulus applicator 10A applies a stimulus substantially coincides with the timing at which the second stimulus applicator 10B applies a stimulus. The second pattern is an example in which the timing at which the first stimulus applicator 10A applies a stimulus substantially does not coincide with the timing at which the second stimulus applicator 10B applies a stimulus. The third pattern is an example in which the timing at which the first stimulus applicator 10A applies a stimulus partially coincides with the timing at which the second stimulus applicator 10B applies a stimulus.

[0055] (Effects of the embodiment) As described above, when the physical strengthening method of FIG. 3 is performed, subject P1 can simultaneously apply loads to two antagonistic muscles without moving the target muscles and joints themselves. Therefore, the muscles can be strengthened. For example, when the output of the AC current applied to the muscles is in the first range, it can contribute to the relief of muscle and joint pain, tension, and stiffness. Furthermore, when the output of the AC current applied to the muscles is in the second range, it can be expected that muscle contraction will occur primarily through electrical stimulation of the muscles and motor nerves, thereby increasing muscle strength, preventing muscle atrophy, and suppressing spasticity. When the output of the AC current applied to the muscles is in the third range, it can contribute to early recovery from injury or pain. Furthermore, subject P1 can stimulate the muscles with the stimulator 10 while simultaneously moving the joints and muscles themselves according to a training menu.

[0056] In addition, the effect differs for each subject P1 when stimulating the trunk side, for example, the muscles of the shoulder blades and hip joints, with the stimulator 10, and when stimulating the peripheral side (wrists and ankles) with the stimulator 10.

[0057] In conventional physical strengthening methods, a subject subjectively determines which muscles are electrically stimulated by attaching a pair of electric pads to the muscles and passing electricity through the pair of electric pads. In contrast, in this embodiment, the assisting computer 14 is used to apply electrical stimulation not only to the first and second muscles that are in an antagonistic relationship, but also to the third muscle that is in a synergistic relationship with the two antagonistic muscles. This improvement in the physical strengthening method is realized by executing an application and a program on the assisting computer 14.

[0058] 3, and proceeds directly from step S14 to step S19. Also, the processor 20 can display on the monitor of the output device 17 one or more of illustrations, still images, and videos showing the positions where the electric pads 11 and 12 are to be attached to the muscles of the subject P1. This allows the electric pads 11 and 12 to be attached accurately and quickly to the corresponding positions of two or more muscles that are the target of strengthening. This allows the physical strengthening process to be carried out smoothly, and improves the efficiency of strengthening the body of the subject P1.

[0059] 3, the support computer 14 can transmit a current pattern that is part of the strengthening menu to the stimulator 10. Therefore, the selected strengthening menu and the current pattern of the stimulator 10 are matched, further improving the efficiency of strengthening the body of the subject P1.

[0060] (Example of application of physical strengthening methods) The application example of the body strengthening method provided by the assistive computer 14 includes the following information: Information for applying electrical stimulation to the aforementioned "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship" and, at the same time, applying electrical stimulation to a muscle in a "synergistic relationship" with respect to one of the "two muscles in an antagonistic relationship."

[0061] An example of a synergistic muscle relationship is shown in Figure 2. First, the flexor muscle group includes the serratus anterior, subscapularis, flexor carpi radialis, thenar muscles, iliopsoas, medial hamstrings, tibialis posterior, and thenar muscles, etc. The extensor muscle group includes the rhomboids, triceps, flexor carpi ulnaris, and thenar muscles, multifidus (transverse abdominis), adductor muscles, peroneus, and thenar muscles, etc.

[0062] Furthermore, the information on physical strengthening methods provided by the assistance computer 14 may include a training menu for working each of the medial hamstrings, adductor muscles, tibialis posterior, and iliopsoas. Furthermore, the information on physical strengthening methods provided by the assistance computer 14 may include a training menu for working each of the medial hamstrings, adductor muscles, peroneus muscles, and transverse abdominis. The training menu includes the type of training, equipment that can be used for the training, etc.

[0063] (Example of using the target device) The support computer 14 is connected to the network 22 and can provide information including a physical strengthening method on a website on the network 22. Therefore, the subject P1 can operate the subject terminal 30 to obtain information including a physical strengthening method from the support computer 14. In other words, the subject P1 can practice the physical strengthening method by operating the subject terminal 30 at home, without visiting a sports gym.

[0064] The subject terminal 30 has a processor 31, a main memory 42, an auxiliary memory 32, an input device 33, an output device 34, a communication interface 35, etc. The processor 31 is configured by a central processing unit (CPU (Central Processing Unit)) that integrates a control circuit (control device) and an arithmetic circuit (arithmetic device). The processor 31 is communicably connected to the main memory 42, the auxiliary memory 32, the input device 33, the output device 34, the communication interface 35, etc. via a bus 36.

[0065] The processor 31 is configured to comprehensively control other devices and circuits provided inside the main body as well as devices and circuits provided outside the main body. The processor 31 processes acquired information. Information includes data, and processing includes calculation, judgment, comparison, control, etc. The processing executed by the processor 31 includes reading information from the auxiliary memory 32, processing and judgment of information acquired from the outside, and adding, changing, and updating information stored in the auxiliary memory 32.

[0066] The processor 31 is configured to be started by reading applications and programs stored in the auxiliary memory 32, and to function as an input information processing unit 31A, an enhanced menu processing unit 31B, and an aptitude determination unit 31C. The input information processing unit 31A processes information input from the input device 33 and information acquired from the support computer 14. The enhanced menu processing unit 31B executes processing to generate an enhanced menu based on the information processed by the input information processing unit 31A and the information stored in the auxiliary memory 18.

[0067] The reinforcement menu processing unit 31B also executes the processes of storing the reinforcement menu in the auxiliary memory 18, outputting the reinforcement menu on the output device 17, sending the reinforcement menu selected on the subject terminal 30 to the assistance computer 14, and sending information on the reinforcement menu relating to the control of the stimulator 10 to the stimulator 10. The suitability determination unit 31C determines whether the reinforcement menu selected by the subject P1 is suitable based on the subject P1's physical information.

[0068] The main memory 42 is a volatile storage device, and functions as a work area and a buffer area when the processor 31 executes processing. The auxiliary memory 32 is a nonvolatile, non-transient storage device, and non-transient applications and programs are stored in the auxiliary memory 32. The processor 31 loads the non-transient applications and programs to execute processing. The auxiliary memory 32 also stores information to be processed by the processor 31. Information stored in the auxiliary memory 32 includes data such as letters, numbers, sentences, symbols, figures, barcodes, videos (images), videos, still images, photographs, and signals. The processor 31 loads the applications and programs stored in the auxiliary memory 18 to execute processing.

[0069] The auxiliary memory 32 has a larger capacity than the main memory 42, and operates in response to input and output instructions from the processor 31. The auxiliary memory 32 includes, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a flash memory, etc. Examples of magnetic disks include hard disk drives, and examples of optical disks include compact disks, digital video disks, and Blu-ray disks. Flash memory is a type of semiconductor memory, and examples of flash memory include SD memory cards, USB flash drives, and solid-state drives. At least one element included in the auxiliary memory 32 corresponds to a non-transitory recording medium 32A on which non-transitory applications, non-transitory programs, and various types of information are stored.

[0070] The input device 33 is a device operated by an operator or controlled by the processor 31 when inputting and outputting data, information, signals, etc. to the subject terminal 30. The input device 33 is operated by the subject P1 to select processing and control to be performed on the subject terminal 30, or is controlled by the processor 31. The input device 33 includes, for example, a keyboard, a touchpad, a mouse, a joystick, an image scanner, a digital camera, a microphone, various sensors, etc. Information input to the subject terminal 30 by the input device 33 includes, for example, data such as letters, numbers, sentences, symbols, figures, barcodes, videos (images), videos, still images, photographs, and signals. By operating the input device 33, the subject P1 can input information such as the subject P1's lifestyle habits, the sports the subject P1 is engaged in, and the subject P1's muscle and joint disorders into the subject terminal 30.

[0071] The output device 34 is a device that outputs information and data on the subject terminal 30. The output device 34 includes, for example, a monitor (display), a printer, a projector, a speaker, and the like.

[0072] The monitor of the output device 34 can display a screen on which the subject P1 operates the input device 33 to input physical information of the subject P1, such as the subject P1's lifestyle habits, the sports the subject P1 is involved in, muscle diseases and joint diseases of the subject P1, etc. The monitor of the output device 34 can also display information obtained from the support computer 14.

[0073] The communication interface 35 includes devices, equipment, and standards for connecting the subject terminal 30 to the network 22 via at least one of a wireless communication system and a wired communication system. The devices and equipment for connecting the subject terminal 30 to the network 22 include a cable, an antenna, a router, etc.

[0074] (Another example of a physical strengthening method) An example in which the subject P1 operates the subject terminal 30 to execute the flowchart of Fig. 3 is as follows. The subject P1 can perform the operation of step S11 by operating the input device 33 of the subject terminal 30 in step S11. The information input in step S11 is sent to the support computer 14 via the network 22. Furthermore, the support computer 14 stores the information acquired from the subject terminal 30 in the auxiliary memory 18 in step S12.

[0075] Furthermore, in step S13 following step S12, the processor 31 of the subject terminal 30 acquires the reinforcement menu from the assistance computer 14 and displays it on the monitor of the output device 34. The subject P1 can select one of the reinforcement menus by operating the subject terminal 30 in step S14. The reinforcement menu selected in the subject terminal 30 is stored in the auxiliary memory 32. In addition, the reinforcement menu selected in the subject terminal 30 is sent from the subject terminal 30 to the assistance computer 14.

[0076] After step S14, the processor 31 of the subject terminal 30 executes a determination in step S15. If the processor 31 of the subject terminal 30 determines Yes in step S15, the processor 31 causes the monitor of the output device 34 to display the reinforcement menu selected by the subject P1 in step S16.

[0077] In contrast, if processor 31 determines No in step S15, it selects in step S17 an enhancement menu whose content is determined to be appropriate in step S15. Then, processor 31 outputs the enhancement menu selected in step S17 on output device 34 in step S18.

[0078] When the processor 31 executes either the processing of step S16 or the processing of step S18, it can display on the monitor of the output device 34 information that differentiates the frequency range of the alternating current flowing to the electric pads 11, 12 of the first stimulus applicator 10A from the frequency range of the alternating current flowing to the electric pads 11, 12 of the second stimulus applicator 10B.

[0079] In step S19 following step S16 or step S18, the subject P1 operates the input device 33 to finally select either the reinforcement menu selected by the subject P1 himself or the reinforcement menu selected by the subject terminal 30, and in step S20, the finally selected reinforcement menu is executed. The processor 31 stores the reinforcement menu finally selected by the subject P1 in step S19 in the auxiliary memory 32. The processor 31 can also send a part of the reinforcement menu finally selected by the subject P1 to the stimulator 10 via the network 22 in step S19.

[0080] The controller 13 of the stimulator 10 can also acquire information about the reinforcement menu from the subject terminal 30 and, based on the acquired information, automatically control the current flowing through the two electric pads 11 and 12 of the stimulator 10. Furthermore, the processor 31 can also execute a routine that omits steps S15, S16, S17, and S18 shown in Figure 3 and proceeds directly from step S14 to step S19.

[0081] If the applications and programs required to execute the body strengthening method of Fig. 3 are downloaded from the support computer 14 to the subject terminal 30, all of the processes and decisions shown in Fig. 3 can be executed by the subject terminal 30. Alternatively, the subject terminal 30 may be connected to the support computer 14 via the network 22, and may perform the decision of step S15 in Fig. 3 and the processes of steps S17 and S18.

[0082] Furthermore, one or more of illustrations, still images, and videos showing the positions where the electric pads 11, 12 should be attached to the muscles of the subject P1 can be displayed on the monitor of the output device 34. This allows the electric pads 11, 12 to be attached accurately and quickly to the corresponding locations of two or more muscles that are the target of strengthening. This allows the body strengthening work to be carried out smoothly, and improves the efficiency of strengthening the body of the subject P1.

[0083] 3, the subject terminal 30 can transmit a current pattern that is part of the strengthening menu to the stimulator 10. Therefore, the selected strengthening menu and the current pattern of the stimulator 10 are matched, further improving the efficiency of strengthening the body of the subject P1.

[0084] In conventional body strengthening methods, a subject subject subjectively attaches a pair of electric pads to one of the body muscles, and electricity is applied to the pair of electric pads to provide electrical stimulation to the muscle. In contrast, in this embodiment, an improvement to the body strengthening method is realized by using the subject's terminal 30 to provide electrical stimulation not only to a first muscle and a second muscle that are in an antagonistic relationship, but also to a third muscle that is in a synergistic relationship with the two antagonistic muscles, by executing an application and a program on the subject's terminal 30.

[0085] (supplementary explanation) An example of the technical meaning of the matters disclosed in this embodiment is as follows. The assistance computer 14 and the subject terminal 30 are an example of a computer. The auxiliary memories 18 and 32 are an example of a memory. The processors 20 and 31 are an example of a processor. The output devices 17 and 34 are an example of an output device. The recording media 18A and 32A are an example of a recording medium. The stimulator 10 is an example of a stimulator. The electric pads 11 and 12 are an example of an electrode. Step S11 shown in FIG. 3 is an example of a first step. Steps S16 and S18 are an example of a second step. Step S20 is an example of a third step. Step S14 is an example of a fourth step. Step S15 is an example of a fifth step. Step S16 is an example of a first auxiliary step. Step S18 is an example of a second auxiliary step. Step S12 is an example of a first process. Steps S16 and S18 are an example of a second process.

[0086] The muscles, joints, etc. of the subject are examples of the subject's body. The sports that the subject engages in, lifestyle habits, diseases, etc. are examples of the subject's physical information. Furthermore, which muscles to strengthen, the application of electricity to the muscles with stimulator 10, the current pattern for applying electricity to the muscles with stimulator 10, training that uses equipment to apply load to the muscles of subject P1, the type of training, the equipment, etc. are examples of a strengthening menu.

[0087] The assistance computer includes a desktop computer and a notebook computer. The assistance computer may also be configured as a supercomputer, a mainframe, a workstation, a server, etc. The assistance computer may be a single computer or multiple computers (distributed computers). The subject terminal may be any of a desktop computer, a notebook computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, etc. Multiple subject terminals may be connected to the assistance computer 14 via a network. Furthermore, the "program" disclosed in this embodiment may also be understood as software that solves a problem, that is, a "computer program product." [Industrial Applicability]

[0088] The body strengthening method, the computer that supports the body strengthening method, and the program that causes the computer to execute processing of the present disclosure can be used primarily in a system that applies electrical stimulation to the muscles of a subject. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 10...Stimulator, 10A...First stimulator, 10B...Second stimulator, 11, 12...Electric pad, 14...Assistive computer, 17, 34...Output device, 18, 32...Auxiliary memory, 20, 31...Processor, 30...Subject terminal

Claims

1. A physical strengthening method for strengthening the body of a subject, comprising: A first step of inputting physical information of a subject into a computer; a second step of outputting, by the computer, a strengthening menu for simultaneously applying electrical stimulation to a first muscle and a second muscle of the subject that are in an antagonistic muscle relationship based on the physical information; a third step of executing the strengthening menu output by the computer to strengthen the body of the subject; A method for strengthening the body, including:

2. 2. The body strengthening method according to claim 1, A physical strengthening method, wherein the strengthening menu further includes a menu in which electrodes of a stimulator are attached to the first muscle and the second muscle of the subject, respectively, and electricity is simultaneously passed through the respective electrodes attached to the first muscle and the second muscle.

3. The body strengthening method according to claim 2, The enhanced menu includes: a current pattern of the stimulator that applies electricity to the first muscle; a current pattern of the stimulator that applies electricity to the second muscle; The body strengthening method further includes a menu that varies the above.

4. 2. The body strengthening method according to claim 1, A physical strengthening method, wherein the strengthening menu further includes training that applies load to the first muscle and the second muscle of the subject using equipment.

5. 2. The body strengthening method according to claim 1, The body strengthening method, wherein the strengthening menu further includes a menu for simultaneously applying electrical stimulation to a third muscle that is in a synergistic relationship with either the first muscle or the second muscle.

6. 6. The body strengthening method according to claim 5, The physical strengthening method, wherein the strengthening menu further includes a menu for applying loads to the actual first muscle, second muscle, and third muscle of the subject using equipment.

7. 2. The body strengthening method according to claim 1, a fourth step, which is executed before the second step and in which the subject selects the reinforcement menu; a fifth step that is performed after the fourth step and before the second step, and that determines whether or not the reinforcement menu selected by the subject is suitable for physical information of the subject; and The second step is a first auxiliary step of causing the computer to output the reinforcement menu selected by the subject when the subject is determined to have aptitude in the fifth step; a second auxiliary step of causing the computer to output a reinforcement menu selected by the computer if the fifth step determines that the player is not suitable; A method for strengthening the body, including:

8. A computer, a memory, a processor, an input device, and an output device; The memory stores a non-transitory program; The processor reads the program stored in the memory, a first process for processing physical information of the subject input from the input device; a second process of outputting, from the output device, a strengthening menu for simultaneously applying electrical stimulation to a first muscle and a second muscle of the subject that are in an antagonistic muscle relationship based on the physical information; A computer configured to run

9. A program readable by a computer having an input device and an output device, The computer, a first process for processing physical information of the subject input from the input device; a second process of outputting, from the output device, a strengthening menu for simultaneously applying electrical stimulation to a first muscle and a second muscle of the subject that are in an antagonistic muscle relationship based on the physical information; A program that executes the following.

10. A recording medium storing a program that can be read by a computer equipped with an input device and an output device, The program causes the computer to: a first process for processing physical information of the subject input from the input device; a second process of outputting, from the output device, a strengthening menu for simultaneously applying electrical stimulation to a first muscle and a second muscle of the subject that are in an antagonistic muscle relationship based on the physical information; A recording medium on which a program for executing the above is stored.

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