Electrical Stimulation Fitness Wear

Abstract

To provide fitness wear having improved functions, while retaining aesthetic appearance.SOLUTION: Electrical stimulation fitness wear comprises a water stop sheet 250 disposed at a position capable of covering a joint part between an electrode part 30 and a clothing part and including a water stop layer 264 in at least a part thereof. At least a part of the clothing part has a multi-layer structure clamping the water stop sheet 250 between a plurality of fabrics. The water stop sheet 250 is configured to weld a water stop layer 264 in at least a part of a fabric with higher stretchability than that of the water stop layer 264.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 29

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to athletic apparel. [Background technology]

[0002] One example of exercise equipment used for human physical exercise is an electrical muscle stimulation device, which is expected to exercise and strengthen muscles by passing a weak current through the muscles to tense and relax them (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-6644 [Patent Document 2] Spanish Patent Application Publication No. 1129005U [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-7699 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Fitness clothing that uses multiple electrical muscle stimulation devices to fasten each device to the body in order to simultaneously train muscles throughout the body is known (see, for example, Patent Document 2). However, with conventional fitness clothing, the electrical muscle stimulation devices and numerous electrical cables are exposed from the clothing, which not only detracts from the aesthetic appearance, but also sometimes restricts the user's movement due to the exposed electrical cables. Meanwhile, wearable devices that use conductive fabric parts as bioelectrodes are also known (see, for example, Patent Document 3). However, because electricity flows through the surface of the conductive fabric parts that come into contact with the skin, a large area of ​​the conductive fabric parts is required to ensure a sufficient amount of current flow, which may restrict the shape and movement of the garment when used as fitness wear.

[0005] In recent years, the number of people training at home, rather than just at gyms, has also increased, meaning that fitness clothing specifications must take into consideration the lifestyle environment in which they will be used.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide fitness wear that has improved functionality while maintaining aesthetic appeal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, one embodiment of the present invention provides an electrostimulation fitness wear that includes a garment portion that can be worn on the body, and an electrode portion that is disposed inside the garment portion in a position facing the target body part so as to be in close proximity to the target body part for applying electrical stimulation to the target body part, and has a surface formed of a conductive polymer fabric. A water-blocking layer is formed at least at the joint between the electrode portion and the garment portion.

[0008] This electrostimulation fitness wear may be for the upper or lower body. The "electrode portion" may be multiple electrodes located in multiple locations, or a single electrode located in a single location. The "junction portion" may be the area of ​​the garment where the electrode portion is located or the area closest to the electrode portion. "Joining" does not necessarily mean that the electrode portion must be in direct contact with the fabric of the garment itself; it is sufficient that the electrode portion is at least close to or adjacent to the garment portion. The "water-stopping layer" may be a waterproof synthetic resin such as polyurethane resin, silicone resin, polyamide synthetic resin, polyvinyl chloride, or polytetrafluoroethylene, formed into a sheet or film. It may also be a layer of highly water-absorbent polymer, such as a high-molecular-weight absorbent polymer, which absorbs moisture from the electrode portion and prevents it from seeping out of the garment portion by blocking water. This embodiment prevents moisture from seeping out of the electrode portion when the electrode portion is moistened, thereby preventing household items such as chairs and sofas from getting wet.

[0009] The device may further include a water-stop sheet having a water-stop layer on at least a portion thereof, positioned so as to cover the joint between the electrode unit and the clothing part. According to this aspect, when the electrode unit is made to retain water, even if the water penetrates from the electrode unit into the clothing part, the water-stop sheet prevents the water from seeping out of the clothing part, thereby preventing household goods such as chairs and sofas from getting wet.

[0010] At least a portion of the garment part may have a multi-layer structure with a waterstop sheet sandwiched between multiple fabrics. The waterstop sheet may cover the joint between the fabric and the electrode part between the multiple fabrics. At least a portion of the "garment part" may have a multi-layer structure with multiple fabrics, for example, an outer fabric and an inner fabric, layered together, and may be configured with a layer of waterstop sheet sandwiched between the outer fabric and the inner fabric. A closed space may be formed between the multiple fabrics of the garment part by sewing all or part of the periphery, and the waterstop sheet may be disposed in this closed space. According to this embodiment, the waterstop sheet is located in a position that is not visible from the outside, thereby achieving fitness wear that maintains both aesthetics and functionality.

[0011] The waterstop sheet may be constructed by welding the waterstop layer to at least a portion of a fabric that is more elastic than the waterstop layer. The "fabric that is more elastic than the waterstop layer" may be, for example, an elastic fabric containing elastic polyurethane synthetic fibers such as spandex, and the "waterstop layer" may be a layer formed by welding a thin sheet or film of polyurethane resin to the elastic fabric. If the entire waterstop sheet were constructed from the waterstop layer, the waterstop layer's relatively low elasticity could hinder the wearer's movement. However, by increasing the elasticity of the portions of the waterstop sheet other than the waterstop layer, the waterstop sheet can expand and contract in accordance with the expansion and contraction of the garment, thereby preventing the wearer's movement from being hindered.

[0012] The water-stopping layer may be formed on the garment part in a position sandwiched between the garment part and the electrode part, to an extent that it can cover the electrode part. The "water-stopping layer" may be a layer formed by welding a thin sheet-like or film-like polyurethane resin to the garment part. If the entire inside of the garment part were made of the water-stopping layer, the water-stopping layer's relatively low elasticity could hinder the wearer's movement. However, by forming the water-stopping layer only in an area that can cover the electrode part, it is possible to avoid hindering the elasticity of the garment part or the wearer's movement.

[0013] The electrode unit may include multiple electrode units, at least some of which are positioned so as to apply electrical stimulation to the gluteal muscles, and the water-stopping layer may be positioned corresponding to the electrode units capable of applying electrical stimulation to the gluteal muscles. The "multiple electrode units" may all be electrodes corresponding to the gluteal muscles, or only some of them may be electrodes corresponding to the gluteal muscles. If moisture seeps through the electrode units corresponding to the gluteal muscles to the outer fabric of the garment when the garment is wet, this can make it difficult to sit on a chair or sofa. Covering the vicinity of the electrode units with a water-stopping layer prevents moisture from seeping through to the outer fabric, allowing the wearer to sit on a chair or sofa with peace of mind.

[0014] The waterstop sheet may have a waterstop layer welded to a fabric with higher elasticity than the waterstop layer at least in the area corresponding to the gluteal muscles, and its upper end may be connected to the waist part of the clothing part and suspended. The upper end of the waterstop sheet may be sewn to the waist part of the clothing part, and the left and right ends may not be sewn to the clothing part. Since not all of the peripheral edge of the waterstop sheet is sewn to the clothing part, the waterstop sheet is less likely to interfere with the elasticity of the clothing part, and it is possible to avoid interfering with the wearer's movement.

[0015] The waterstop sheet may be formed of a single layer of fabric that is more stretchable than the waterstop layer, at least in the portion corresponding to the area below the gluteal muscles, and its lower end may be connected to the hem of the garment. The "portion corresponding to the area below the gluteal muscles" may be made solely of a stretchable fabric containing elastic polyurethane synthetic fibers such as spandex. The lower end of the waterstop sheet may be connected to the hem of the garment by stitching. According to this embodiment, by using stretchable fabric in areas other than those requiring waterproofing, the waterstop sheet is less likely to interfere with the stretch of the garment, allowing the wearer's movement to be unimpeded. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, fitness wear that maintains aesthetics while improving functionality can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a motion control system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of an exercise control system for a first exercise program and a second exercise program. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of an exercise control system in the third and fourth exercise programs. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the appearance of fitness wear. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of the arrangement and wiring of electrodes in an upper body garment part of the fitness wear. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of the arrangement and wiring of electrodes in a lower-body garment part of the fitness wear. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a partially enlarged view showing the arrangement and structure of the clothing part, electrodes, and electrical cables. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and structure of the clothing portion, electrodes, electrical cables, control unit, and control unit connector. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is an external view of an electric cable. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partial enlarged view illustrating the connection and stitching of the electrical cable to the liner. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is an explanatory cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of an electric cable. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is an explanatory cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal structure of a resin mold. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a control unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the motion control device. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of an upper-body clothing portion. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and structure of a garment part, electrodes, electric cables, a control unit, and a control unit connection part in a second embodiment. [Figure 17] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a mounting structure for a control unit and a control unit connector in a second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a mix-up prevention structure in the second embodiment. [Figure 19] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a structure for preventing incorrect installation in a second embodiment. [Figure 20] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the appearance of an upper-body clothing part and an upper-body control unit in a first example. FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic arrangement of electrodes in an upper-body clothing part of a first example. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a control unit and electrodes in a first example. [Figure 23] 10 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the appearance of an upper-body clothing part and an upper-body control unit in a second example. FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a control unit and electrodes in a second example. [Figure 25] 10 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the appearance of an upper-body clothing part and an upper-body control unit in a third example. FIG. [Figure 26]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the size and arrangement of electrodes in an upper-body clothing part of a fourth example. [Figure 27] 10 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of the arrangement and wiring of electrodes in a lower-body garment part of a third embodiment. FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the arrangement of electrodes and a waterproof sheet in a lower-body garment part according to a third embodiment. [Figure 29] 29 is a diagram showing a cross section of the lower-body clothing part taken along line AA in FIG. 28. FIG. [Figure 30] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a sprayer for spraying water and a first spraying aid. [Figure 31] 29 is a diagram showing a cross section of a lower-body garment part of a fourth embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 28. FIG. [Figure 32] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a sprayer for spraying water and a second spraying aid. [Figure 33] 29 is a diagram showing a cross section of a lower-body garment part of a fifth embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 28. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] (First embodiment) Many users of electrical muscle stimulation devices wish to use multiple electrical muscle stimulation devices to simultaneously train muscles throughout the body in a more comprehensive or efficient manner. It is also conceivable to provide such exercise programs using multiple electrical muscle stimulation devices to multiple users simultaneously in a setting such as a fitness gym. When using multiple devices simultaneously to target multiple body parts, it is preferable to implement them in a simpler procedure. Furthermore, to enhance users' motivation and enthusiasm for exercise, aesthetics are required for the location where the exercise program is provided, the equipment used, and each piece of fitness wear. However, with conventional fitness clothing, the electrical muscle stimulation devices and numerous electrical cables are exposed from the clothing, not only detracting from the aesthetic appearance, but also limiting the user's movement due to the presence of exposed electrical cables. Multiple exposed electrical cables also pose problems such as poor contact and breakage in some areas. Furthermore, exposed wiring for electrical muscle stimulation devices poses a risk of catching on the wiring when multiple users use the device simultaneously. In addition to the need for electrical components, even putting on and taking off the clothing often requires the assistance of a third party, making it difficult to handle. Furthermore, in environments such as fitness gyms that provide exercise programs to a large number of users, clothing needs to be washed repeatedly, but conventional fitness clothing cannot be washed as is, and the electrical components must be removed and put back on each time, which is a hassle.

[0019] Therefore, in this embodiment, fitness wear that maintains aesthetics and functionality is realized.

[0020] One embodiment of electrostimulation fitness wear includes a garment portion that can be worn on the body, multiple electrodes formed of a conductive polymer fabric and disposed on the garment portion at positions facing each of multiple target body parts so as to be in close proximity to each of the multiple target body parts to provide electrical stimulation to the multiple target body parts, a control unit that controls the voltage of the multiple electrodes, a connection unit electrically connected to the control unit, and multiple electric wires that electrically connect each of the multiple electrodes to the connection unit. All or a portion of the garment portion has a multi-layer structure in which multiple fabrics are overlapped, and an enclosed space is formed between the multiple fabrics by sewing all or a portion of the periphery. The multiple electric wires include a first electric wire and a second electric wire and are disposed in the enclosed space, and the multiple electrode portions include a first electrode portion connected to the first electric wire and a second electrode portion connected to the second electric wire, with the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion disposed in separate positions so that electricity can be applied to a specific body part between these electrodes.

[0021] The "control unit" here may be a detachable, independent control unit or a control device fixedly attached to the "connection unit." The "electric wire" may be an electrical cable composed of coated conductors or the like, and may be water-resistant. The electrode portion has a surface formed from a conductive polymer fabric, allowing it to be washed as part of the garment without being removed from the garment. In particular, compared to using conductive fibers containing metals such as silver, there is no risk of reduced conductivity due to oxidation or corrosion, or of metal allergies. The first and second electrode portions, one anode and the other cathode, are positioned at a certain distance from each other so as to face the same target body part. Electrical stimulation can be applied to the target body part by passing current between these electrodes. In particular, when the area of ​​the body part to be electrically stimulated is relatively large, physically separating the pair of negative and positive electrodes and connecting them to separate electric wires allows the electrode positions to move apart or shift in response to the expansion and contraction of the garment fabric due to the user's body shape and movement, preventing interference with the expansion and contraction of the garment part even without the electrodes themselves being stretchable. Furthermore, the wires can be washed as part of the garment without being removed, and by placing them in an enclosed space, the wires and electrodes are hidden from view, preserving the beauty of the fitness wear. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from coming into contact with the wires or hindering their flexibility.

[0022] Another embodiment of electrical stimulation fitness wear comprises a stretchable garment portion that can be worn on the body, a plurality of electrode portions positioned opposite each of a plurality of target body portions so as to be in close proximity to each of the plurality of target body portions in order to provide electrical stimulation to the plurality of target body portions, a connection portion electrically connected to a control unit that controls the voltage of the plurality of electrode portions, and a plurality of stretchable electric wires that electrically connect each of the plurality of electrode portions to the connection portion.

[0023] The term "electric wire" as used herein may refer to a stretchable electrical cable constructed by at least helically winding one or more coated conductors, each formed by coating a core wire with resin, around a stretchable elastic core material. The elastic core material and the spirally wound coated conductors are stretchable in the longitudinal direction of the elastic core material, allowing for stretching up to, for example, approximately 1.4 times their original length. Because such an electric wire is both water-resistant and stretchable, it can be washed as part of the garment without being removed from the garment. Furthermore, when the garment fabric stretches due to the user's body shape or movement, the electric wire also stretches accordingly, preventing any disruption to the stretchability of the garment. Furthermore, because there is no need to use a long electric wire to match the stretch rate of the garment, the feeling of a foreign body caused by excess electric wire touching the user's body when the garment contracts can be reduced.

[0024] At least a portion of the garment part may have a multi-layer structure in which multiple fabrics are overlapped, and a closed space may be formed between the multiple fabrics by sewing at least a portion of the periphery. The electric wire may be stretchable to follow the expansion and contraction of the garment part, and a portion of the electric wire may be fixed to a predetermined fixing portion of at least one of the multiple fabrics. This not only allows the electric wire to stretch in accordance with the expansion of the garment part fabric due to the user's body shape and movement, but also prevents the electric wire from coming off the electrode or the like even if it is pulled by the expansion of the garment part fabric, because a portion of the electric wire is fixed by the fixing portion. Furthermore, these structures reduce the need for maintenance of the electric wire, so it can be placed in a closed space without problems, and the electric wire and electrodes can be hidden from view from the outside, maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the fitness wear.

[0025] The electrode portion may include a padding member provided on the side of the garment portion facing the wearer's skin and a conductive polymer fabric covering the padding member. The electric wire may be connected to the conductive polymer fabric via a connector that penetrates the garment portion's fabric and electrically connects the front and back of the fabric. The "connector" may be a metal fastener such as a snap button, and may electrically connect the front and back of the fabric by sandwiching the garment portion's fabric and the conductive polymer fabric. This allows for easy electrical connection, even when the garment portion has a multi-layer structure consisting of multiple layers of fabric, with the electric wire routed inside the multi-layer structure and the electrode provided on the outside of the multi-layer structure, i.e., the side facing the wearer's skin. Furthermore, by covering the padding member with a conductive polymer fabric to form the electrode, it is possible to maintain a good contact feel with the skin while preventing the electrode from separating from the skin by the protruding padding member. Furthermore, because the garment portion's fabric has a multi-layer structure, when the garment portion is fitted to the user's body, the lining may deform due to the convex electrodes, but the outer fabric is suppressed from deforming, thereby maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the fitness wear.

[0026] The clothing parts include upper-body and lower-body garments, each of which is provided with a plurality of electrodes and a plurality of electric wires. The clothing parts are equipped with a first control unit and a second control unit as control units. The first control unit may be attached to a first side of the front of the upper-body garment, separated by a midline, and the second control unit may be attached to a second side of the front of the lower-body garment, separated by a midline. The first and second control units are installed separately for the upper and lower body, and are installed at separate positions across the midline, preventing the first and second control units from colliding and interfering with each other even when the body is bent forward or the thighs or knees are lifted. Furthermore, by separating the control units into the first and second independent control units, the intensities of the electrical stimulation to the upper body and the electrical stimulation to the lower body can be set separately.

[0027] In this embodiment, the user receives electrical stimulation from the electrostimulation fitness wear and moves their body according to instructions that match the pattern of the electrical stimulation, thereby achieving hybrid training that combines involuntary movement caused by electrical muscle stimulation with voluntary movement, which is conscious movement of the body. In hybrid training, the exercise effect can be enhanced by consciously moving the muscles in the opposite direction while receiving electrical stimulation. For example, the user can bend their elbow (involuntary movement) using electrical stimulation while consciously extending their arm (voluntary movement). This allows the muscle load to be increased more efficiently and in a shorter time than regular exercise.

[0028] Four main patterns of hybrid training exercise programs are described below. The first type of exercise program is performed by a single user in a facility such as a fitness gym, following instructions from a video display or an instructor. The second type of exercise program is performed by a single user in a private location such as a home, following instructions from a video display. The third type of exercise program is performed by multiple users simultaneously as a group training session in a facility such as a fitness gym, following the same video or instructions from an instructor. The fourth type of exercise program is performed by a single user in a private location such as a home, and synchronized with users in other locations, following instructions from the same video provided via a network. In particular, the second and fourth types of exercise programs allow users to perform an exercise program equivalent to that of a fitness gym without having to go to a specific location such as a fitness gym, thereby enabling training that is not bound by time or environment.

[0029] Hereinafter, identical or equivalent components, parts, and steps shown in each drawing will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted where appropriate. Furthermore, the dimensions of the parts in each drawing will be enlarged or reduced as appropriate to facilitate understanding. Furthermore, some parts that are not important for explaining the embodiments will be omitted from the drawings.

[0030] FIG. 1 shows the exterior of an exercise control system. This diagram mainly illustrates the exercise control system for a first exercise program and a second exercise program. The exercise control system includes one or more exercise control devices 12 and one or more display devices. The exercise control device 12 for the first exercise program is installed in a fitness gym 80 and provides an exercise program to a user 82 who trains at the fitness gym 80. FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which an exercise control device 12a provides an exercise program to a user 82a, and an exercise control device 12b provides an exercise program to a user 82b at the fitness gym 80. In other words, there is a one-to-one relationship between the exercise control device 12 and the user. The exercise control devices 12a and 12b wirelessly connect to and control the electrical muscle stimulation devices attached to fitness wear 102a and 102b worn by the users, respectively. The exercise control devices 12a and 12b are also connected to mirror displays 105a and 105b, respectively, and control the display content of the mirror displays 105a and 105b, displaying videos showing model movements. The exercise control devices 12a and 12b are operated by instructors 83a and 83b. The instructors 83a and 83b demonstrate model movements to the users 82a and 82b while providing verbal instructions and advice to them near the exercise control devices 12a and 12b. The exercise control devices 12a and 12b synchronize the images of the model movements displayed on the mirror displays 105a and 105b with the application of voltage to the electrical muscle stimulation devices of the fitness wear 102a and 102b, thereby achieving synchronization of voluntary and involuntary movements in hybrid training.

[0031] The exercise control devices 12a and 12b may be standalone devices, may be linked to each other via a network, or may be connected to an exercise control management server via a network such as the Internet and provide each user with an exercise program based on instructions received from the exercise control management server. The exercise control devices 12a and 12b display individual content on each mirror display 105 at individual times to provide individual exercise programs to multiple people.

[0032] On the other hand, in the case of an exercise control system for a second exercise program carried out in a personal space such as at home, the exercise control device 12c provides the exercise program to a user 82 who is training in a personal space 81. FIG. 1 further shows an example of providing an exercise program to a user 82c who is also in the personal space 81. The exercise control device 12c used in the personal space 81 connects via wireless communication to an electrical muscular stimulation device attached to fitness wear 102c and controls the electrical muscular stimulation device. The exercise control device 12c is an electronic device such as a tablet terminal that also serves as a display.

[0033] The exercise control devices 12a-c may be connected to an exercise control management server via a network such as the Internet and provide each user 82 with an exercise program based on instructions received from the exercise control management server. The exercise control devices 12a-c display individual content at individual times on the mirror displays 105 and the exercise control device 12c to provide individual exercise programs to multiple people. The exercise control devices 12a-c may be able to start or end the exercise program of the electrical muscular stimulation device by operating, for example, a button on the electrical muscular stimulation device or a remote controller without being connected to the exercise control device 12 via wireless communication, and may also be able to independently implement the exercise program without instructions from the exercise control device 12.

[0034] In the third exercise program, multiple users simultaneously receive the same exercise program using one exercise control device 12 and one display device 106. In the exercise control system for the fourth exercise program, an exercise control device 12c connected via a network is also connected to the exercise control device 12, and receives the same exercise program in synchronization.

[0035] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of an exercise control system for the first and second exercise programs. The exercise control system 100 includes multiple fitness wear items 102, multiple exercise control devices 12, multiple mirror displays 105, and an exercise control management server 16. The fitness wear items 102 incorporate multiple electrodes as electrical muscle stimulation devices and are equipped with a control unit. In the figure, the fitness wear items 102a and 102b, the exercise control devices 12a and 12b, the mirror displays 105a and 105b, and the exercise control management server 16 are installed or used in a fitness gym 80, and the fitness wear items 102a and 102b are loaned to users. In contrast, fitness wear 102c and exercise control device 12c (terminal that also serves as a display) are used in personal space 81 and are owned and used by the user themselves, which differs from fitness wear 102a, 102b, exercise control device 12a, 12b, and mirror display 105a, 105b used in fitness gym 80.

[0036] In the fitness gym 80, the fitness wear 102a and the exercise control device 12a, and the fitness wear 102b and the exercise control device 12b are each connected via short-range wireless communication 17 such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The exercise control devices 12a and 12b are each connected to the mirror displays 105a and 105b via wired cables. For example, if the mirror display 105 is configured with a built-in monitor and personal computer, the exercise control devices 12a and 12b are connected to the personal computer via a wired cable such as a LAN cable or a USB cable. If the mirror display 105 does not have a built-in personal computer and is essentially configured only with a monitor, the exercise control devices 12a and 12b are connected to the monitor via a wired cable such as a monitor cable. The exercise control devices 12a and 12b are connected to the exercise control management server 16 via wired or wireless communication. As a variation, each exercise control device 12 may operate standalone, or may be connected to the exercise control management server 16 but operate independently without interlocking with each other. In the example shown in the figure, one exercise control management server 16 installed in a fitness gym 80 controls all of the exercise control devices 12 in that fitness gym 80. Alternatively, the exercise control management server 16 may control the operation of all of the exercise control devices 12 and the electrical muscle stimulation devices. Alternatively, the exercise control management server 16 may be installed outside the fitness gym 80, for example, on the Internet.

[0037] In the personal space 81, the fitness wear 102c and the exercise control device 12c are connected via short-range wireless communication 17 such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The exercise control device 12c is exemplified by a tablet terminal that also serves as a display, but it may also be an information terminal such as a mobile phone, or a personal computer connected to a monitor. A variation of the exercise control device 12c may be a dedicated small terminal with the same functions as the exercise control devices 12a and 12b. The exercise control device 12c is connected to a network 15 via wireless or wired communication, and is connected to an exercise control management server 16 via the network 15. This allows the exercise program implemented in the fitness gym 80 to also be implemented in the personal space 81.

[0038] One or more sets of devices, each including an exercise control device 12 and a mirror display 105, are installed in the fitness gym 80. One user uses each set of devices, and a set of fitness wear 102 (top and bottoms) is provided for that user. The fitness wear 102 includes an upper-body garment portion and a lower-body garment portion. The fitness wear 102 is provided with electrodes for an electrical muscle stimulation device on the back of each body part (i.e., the side that can come into contact with the user's skin) so that electrical stimulation can be applied to each body part, such as the user's abdominal muscles, flanks, arms, legs, and buttocks. A control unit for the electrical muscle stimulation device is attached to each of the upper-body garment portion and the lower-body garment portion of the fitness wear 102, and applies electrical stimulation to the user's muscles. The electrical muscle stimulation device includes multiple electrodes, cables, and a control unit. The control unit communicates with the exercise control device 12 via short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) to send and receive information. The control units are attached to both the upper and lower body garments, but as an alternative, a single control unit may be attached to either the upper or lower body garment for the entire fitness wear 102, controlling the application of electrical stimulation to electrodes throughout the body. An exercise control program, the execution of which is instructed through communication with the exercise control device 12, controls the voltage settings and operation of the electrical muscular stimulation device. A display control device 104 displays an image of the exercise on a display device 106 in accordance with the instructions of the exercise control program executed by the exercise control device 12.

[0039] Exercise control devices 12a and 12b are information terminals operated by instructors or users at fitness gym 80. Exercise control devices 12a and 12b control the setting of the intensity of electrical stimulation by the electrical muscle stimulation devices provided in fitness wear 102a and 102b and the operation thereof via a control unit for each fitness wear. Exercise control device 12c is an information terminal operated by a user in personal space 81 and controls the setting of the intensity of electrical stimulation by the electrical muscle stimulation device provided in fitness wear 102c and the operation thereof via a control unit.

[0040] The mirror display 105 includes a display control device 104, a display device 106, and a posture sensor 107. The exercise control devices 12a and 12b display images explaining the exercise program and examples of movements on the display devices 106a and 106b under the control of the display control devices 104a and 104b. However, taking into account delays in wireless communication with the electrical muscular stimulation device, the images may be displayed with a predetermined periodic delay rather than perfectly synchronized with the control pulses of the electrical muscular stimulation device. The posture sensors 107a and 107b include cameras capable of capturing images of the user's movements and capture images of the user performing exercise according to the exercise program. The images or images reproducing the skeletal movements based on an analysis of the user's movements are displayed on the display devices 106a and 106b by the display control devices 104a and 104b.

[0041] FIG. 3 shows the configuration of an exercise control system for the third and fourth exercise programs. As described above, the third exercise program provides the same exercise program simultaneously to multiple users in a fitness gym 80, while the fourth exercise program provides the same exercise program synchronously to users in a personal space 81 via a network. The exercise control system 100 for the third exercise program includes multiple fitness wear items 102a and 102b worn by multiple users in the fitness gym 80, an exercise control device 12 connected via communication to the fitness wear items 102, a display device 106, a display control device 104, and an exercise control management server 16. The exercise control system 100 for the fourth exercise program also includes fitness wear item 102c and exercise control device 12c used in the personal space 81.

[0042] Because the exercise control device 12 in the fitness gym 80 functions as a hub for multiple electrical muscle stimulation devices for multiple users, it is more efficient for an instructor or user to operate the exercise control device 12 to control multiple electrical muscle stimulation devices simultaneously rather than individually configuring and operating each device. Furthermore, the movements of multiple users can be synchronized and controlled simultaneously using the same program. The exercise control device 12 displays explanations of the exercise program and video examples of the movements on the display device 106 via the display control device 104 in synchronization with the control of the multiple electrical muscle stimulation devices. Alternatively, the same content may be displayed on multiple display devices 106 in synchronization to provide multiple exercise programs simultaneously. Furthermore, the exercise control device 12c is connected to the network 15 via wireless or wired communication and is connected to the exercise control management server 16 via the network 15. The exercise control device 12c may display the same content on the exercise control device 12c in synchronization with the exercise control device 12 in the fitness gym 80 to provide multiple exercise programs simultaneously. This allows exercise programs provided to multiple users in the fitness gym 80 to be provided in the personal spaces 81 almost simultaneously. However, providing the exercise program to user 82c in personal space 81 may be optional, and the exercise program can be implemented by providing it only to users 82a and 82b in fitness gym 80.

[0043] A plurality of exercise control management servers 16 may be installed and connected to each other via wired or wireless communication so that the operations of the plurality of exercise control devices 12 and the plurality of electrical muscle stimulation devices that each server controls are coordinated. The plurality of exercise control management servers 16 may be connected to and coordinated with exercise control management servers installed in other fitness gyms 80 via network 15, or may be connected to a predetermined management server on network 15 that controls these plurality of exercise control management servers.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of the fitness wear. The fitness wear 102 is composed of an upper-body garment portion 120 that can be worn by a user on the upper body and a lower-body garment portion 122 that can be worn by a user on the lower body. The upper-body garment portion 120 is a short-sleeved jacket that opens in the front and is opened and closed at the front by a front zipper 130 located along the midline. The upper-body garment portion 120 and the lower-body garment portion 122 are made of synthetic fiber fabric, which is an electrically insulating fabric and has a high degree of stretchability required to fit the body regardless of the wearer's body type. The upper-body garment portion 120 and the lower-body garment portion 122 are worn directly against the skin without the need for any innerwear. Multiple electrodes are provided on the backside of the upper-body garment portion 120 and the lower-body garment portion 122. The arrangement of the electrodes will be described later. A right arm zipper 131 is provided on the outside of the right sleeve from the cuff to the shoulder, and a left arm zipper 132 is provided on the outside of the left sleeve from the cuff to the shoulder. Closing the right arm zipper 131 and left arm zipper 132 allows the sleeves to fit more snugly around the arm. Non-slip rubber is attached to the inside of the left and right cuffs along the inner periphery of the cuffs to prevent the cuffs from rolling up or lifting up during exercise. A right arm zipper 133 is provided on the right side from the hem to the armpit, and a left arm zipper 134 is provided on the left side from the hem to the armpit. Closing the right arm zipper 133 and left arm zipper 134 allows the hem to fit more snugly around the waist. Non-slip rubber is also attached to the inside of the hem along the inner periphery of the hem to prevent the hem from rolling up or lifting up during exercise. A right leg zipper 135 is provided on the outside of the right leg, running from the hem toward the right hip, and a left leg zipper 136 is provided on the outside of the left leg, running from the hem toward the left hip. By closing the right leg zipper 135 and the left leg zipper 136, the hems can be fitted more tightly to the legs. Non-slip rubber is also attached to the inside of the left and right hems, along the inner periphery, to prevent the hems from rolling up or lifting up during exercise.By providing zippers in various locations on upper-body garment portion 120 and lower-body garment portion 122, the tightness of the zippers and the flexibility of the fabric allow the garment to fit evenly to the body, maintaining good contact of the electrodes with the skin. Also, by adjusting the degree to which each zipper is closed (opened), the fit to the body can be adjusted to suit the user's preferences and body shape.

[0045] An upper body control unit 124 is attached to the upper body garment portion 120 at a position closer to the front than the right armpit. Similarly, a lower body control unit 126 is attached to the lower body garment portion 122 at a position closer to the front of the left leg. The upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 control the voltage applied to each electrode. The upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 are attached in an exposed form as separate, independent units for the upper body and lower body. Separating the control units for the upper body and lower body allows the upper body and lower body to be trained at different exercise intensities (set voltage values). Furthermore, some users may selectively purchase or use only one of the upper body electrical muscle stimulation device and the lower body electrical muscle stimulation device. Alternatively, the upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 can be linked by pairing them via short-range wireless communication when they are started up. In this case, operating one of the upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 also links the other, allowing for integrated control of the upper and lower body electrical muscle stimulation devices. The upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 can be paired with an information terminal (such as a mobile phone or tablet) serving as the exercise control device 12 via short-range wireless communication upon startup, allowing them to be controlled by a control application installed on the information terminal. In this case, the upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 can be operated separately or collectively. Furthermore, the upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 are attached to separate left and right positions across the midline, so that they are positioned diagonally across the front of the body. Therefore, even when the body is bent forward or the thighs or knees are lifted, the upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 can be prevented from colliding with each other and interfering with each other.

[0046] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of the electrode arrangement and wiring in the upper-body garment portion of the fitness wear. FIG. 5(a) shows the front side of the upper-body garment portion 120, and FIG. 5(b) shows the back side of the upper-body garment portion 120. The upper-body garment portion 120 has electrodes arranged on the back surface of the fabric, and at least a portion of the fabric has a multi-layer structure with an outer fabric and an inner fabric overlapping each other, with an electrical cable running between the outer fabric and the inner fabric. The electrical cable is water-resistant and stretchable. The arrangement and wiring of the electrodes, electrical cables, etc. are not actually visible from the outside, so they are illustrated by dashed lines.

[0047] The electrodes on the back surface of the upper-body garment portion 120 are located at multiple locations corresponding to target body parts to which electrical stimulation should be applied, such as the user's abdominal muscles, flanks, arms, etc. Each electrode is provided at a separate location so that electricity can be applied to a specific body part between these electrodes. The multiple electrodes are electrically connected to the first control unit connector 20a by individual electrical cables 36. The first control unit connector 20a is provided at a location corresponding to the upper body control unit 124 in FIG. 4, and when the upper body control unit 124 is attached to the first control unit connector 20a, the first control unit connector 20a and the upper body control unit 124 are electrically connected. The multiple electric cables 36 connected to each electrode are stretchable, and are fixed in position by being entangled with cable fastening tape 49 sewn to the upper body garment part 120 just before each electrode, thereby preventing the electric cables 36 from coming off each electrode even if the electric cables 36 are pulled in accordance with the stretching of the upper body garment part 120.

[0048] A pair of yin-yang electrodes, a first electrode 30a on the right and a second electrode 30b on the left, are provided at locations corresponding to the abdominal muscles, spanning the rectus abdominis muscle from side to side. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from the upper body control unit 124 via a first electrical cable 36a and a second electrical cable 36b, respectively, to electrically stimulate the rectus abdominis muscle. A first cable fastening tape 49a is sewn in front of the first electrode 30a, and the first electrical cable 36a connecting the first electrode 30a to the first control unit connector 20a is entangled and fixed in position around the first cable fastening tape 49a. A second cable fastening tape 49b is sewn in front of the second electrode 30b, and the second electrical cable 36b, which runs from the second electrode 30b on the left abdominal muscle through the left flank, back, and right flank to the first control unit connector 20a on the front side, is entangled and fixed in position around the second cable fastening tape 49b.

[0049] A third electrode 30c is provided on the front side of the right flank, and a fourth electrode 30d is provided on the back side as a pair of yin-yang electrodes spanning the right oblique abdominal muscle from front to back. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from the upper body control unit 124 via a third electrical cable 36c and a fourth electrical cable 36d, respectively, to electrically stimulate the right oblique abdominal muscle. A third cable fastening tape 49c is sewn in front of the third electrode 30c, and the third electrical cable 36c connecting the third electrode 30c to the first control unit connector 20a is entangled and fixed in position around the third cable fastening tape 49c. A fourth cable fastening tape 49d is sewn in front of the fourth electrode 30d, and the fourth electrical cable 36d, which runs from the fourth electrode 30d on the back side through the right flank to the first control unit connector 20a on the front side, is entangled and fixed in position around the fourth cable fastening tape 49d.

[0050] A fifth electrode 30e is provided on the front side of the left flank, and a sixth electrode 30f is provided on the back side as a pair of yin-yang electrodes spanning the left oblique muscle from front to back. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from the upper body control unit 124 via the fifth electrical cable 36e and the sixth electrical cable 36f, respectively, to electrically stimulate the left oblique muscle. The fifth electrical cable 36e runs from the fifth electrode 30e on the front side of the left flank through the back and connects to the fourth electrode 30d, thereby electrically connecting to the first control unit connector 20a via the fourth electrode 30d. A fifth cable fastening tape 49e is sewn in front of the fifth electrode 30e, and the fifth electrical cable 36e is entangled with the fifth cable fastening tape 49e to secure its position. The fifth electrical cable 36e is also entangled with the fourth cable fastening tape 49d sewn in front of the fourth electrode 30d to secure its position. A sixth cable fastening tape 49f is sewn in front of the sixth electrode portion 30f, and the sixth electric cable 36f, which is wired from the sixth electrode portion 30f on the left flank on the back side through the back and right flank to the first control unit connection portion 20a on the front side, is entangled in the sixth cable fastening tape 49f and fixed in position.

[0051] A seventh electrode unit 30g is provided on the upper side (front side) of the right arm, and an eighth electrode unit 30h is provided on the lower side (back side) as a pair of yin-yang electrodes that sandwich the right biceps and triceps from above and below. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from upper body control unit 124 via seventh electrical cable 36g and eighth electrical cable 36h, respectively, to provide electrical stimulation to the right biceps and triceps. While seventh electrode unit 30g and eighth electrode unit 30h sandwich the biceps and triceps from above and below, the electrode sizes are not made larger than necessary, with seventh electrode unit 30g positioned forward (toward the elbow) from the most prominent part of the biceps, and eighth electrode unit 30h positioned backward (toward the shoulder) from the most prominent part of the triceps. This allows the biceps and triceps to be clamped not only from above and below but also from the front and back, increasing the stability of the placement and preventing both electrodes from simultaneously shifting from the muscle bulges toward the shoulder due to the vibrations of the electrical stimulation. Furthermore, by applying electrical stimulation to the biceps and triceps diagonally from above and below and from the front and back, it is possible to efficiently load each muscle with electrodes of relatively small area and low power. Furthermore, electrical stimulation can be applied to the biceps and triceps with a small number of electrodes and wiring, minimizing interference with arm movement. A seventh cable fastening tape 49g is sewn in front of the seventh electrode portion 30g. The seventh electrical cable 36g, which runs from the seventh electrode portion 30g through the right armpit on the front side to the first control unit connection portion 20a, is entangled and fixed in place by the seventh cable fastening tape 49g. An eighth cable fastening tape 49h is sewn in front of the eighth electrode portion 30h, and the eighth electrical cable 36h that runs from the eighth electrode portion 30h through the right underarm on the back side to the first control unit connection portion 20a is entangled in the eighth cable fastening tape 49h to fix its position.

[0052] A ninth electrode unit 30i is provided on the upper side (front side) of the left arm as a pair of yin-yang electrodes sandwiching the left biceps and triceps from above and below, and a tenth electrode unit 30j is provided on the lower side (back side). A voltage is applied between these electrodes from upper body control unit 124 via ninth electric cable 36i and tenth electric cable 36j, respectively, to provide electrical stimulation to the left biceps and triceps. Note that while the ninth electrode unit 30i and the tenth electrode unit 30j sandwich the biceps and triceps from above and below, the electrode sizes are not made larger than necessary, with the ninth electrode unit 30i positioned forward (toward the elbow) from the most prominent part of the biceps, and the tenth electrode unit 30j positioned backward (toward the shoulder) from the most prominent part of the triceps. This allows the biceps and triceps to be clamped not only from above and below but also from the front and back, increasing the stability of the placement and preventing both electrodes from simultaneously shifting from the muscle bulges toward the shoulder due to the vibrations of the electrical stimulation. Furthermore, by applying electrical stimulation to the biceps and triceps diagonally from above and below and from the front and back, it is possible to efficiently load each muscle with electrodes of relatively small area and low power. Furthermore, electrical stimulation can be applied to the biceps and triceps with a small number of electrodes and wiring, minimizing interference with arm movement. A ninth cable fastening tape 49i is sewn in front of the ninth electrode unit 30i. The ninth electrical cable 36i, which runs from the ninth electrode unit 30i through the left armpit on the front side, through the left flank, back, and right flank, to the first control unit connector 20a on the front side, is entangled and fixed in place by the ninth cable fastening tape 49i. A tenth cable fastening tape 49j is sewn in front of the tenth electrode portion 30j, and the tenth electric cable 36j that runs from the tenth electrode portion 30j through the left underarm on the back side, through the left flank, back, and right flank to the first control unit connection portion 20a on the front side is entangled in the tenth cable fastening tape 49j to fix its position.

[0053] Five electric cables 36, including a tenth electric cable 36j connecting the tenth electrode 30j and the first control unit connector 20a, a ninth electric cable 36i connecting the ninth electrode 30i and the first control unit connector 20a, a second electric cable 36b connecting the second electrode 30b and the first control unit connector 20a, a fourth electric cable 36d connecting the fifth electrode 30e and the fourth electrode 30d, and a sixth electric cable 36f connecting the sixth electrode 30f and the first control unit connector 20a, are routed from the back side to the front side through the center of the back and the right flank. A cable fastening tape 59a for bundling these five electric cables 36 is arranged near the center of the back, and the five electric cables 36 are bundled together by the cable fastening tape 59a. The cable fastening tape 59a may be sewn to the upper-body garment portion 120 near the center of the back.

[0054] The above-described arrangement and wiring allows the electrical cable to be routed without being exposed to the outside. Furthermore, because the components other than the upper body control unit 124 are water-resistant, the fitness wear 102 can be washed simply by removing the upper body control unit 124, without removing the electrode section 30 or the electrical cable 36. Note that the figure shows an example in which the electrodes are arranged mainly for men in the upper body clothing section 120, but the arrangement and size of the electrodes may be different for women.

[0055] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of the electrode arrangement and wiring in the lower-body garment portion of the fitness wear. FIG. 6(a) shows the front side of the lower-body garment portion 122, and FIG. 6(b) shows the back side of the lower-body garment portion 122. The electrodes are arranged on the back surface of the fabric of the lower-body garment portion 122, and at least a portion of the fabric has a multi-layer structure in which an outer layer and an inner layer are overlapped, with an electrical cable wired between the outer layer and the inner layer. The electrical cable is water-resistant and stretchable. The arrangement and wiring of the electrodes, electrical cables, etc. are not actually visible from the outside, so they are illustrated by dashed lines.

[0056] The electrodes on the back surface of the lower-body garment portion 122 are located at multiple locations corresponding to target body parts to which electrical stimulation should be applied, such as the user's legs, buttocks, and other body parts. The multiple electrodes are electrically connected to the second control unit connector 20b via individual electrical cables 36. The second control unit connector 20b is located at a position corresponding to the lower-body control unit 126 in FIG. 4, and when the lower-body control unit 126 is attached to the second control unit connector 20b, the second control unit connector 20b and the lower-body control unit 126 are electrically connected. The multiple electrical cables 36 connected to each electrode are stretchable and are fixed in position by being entangled with cable fastening tape 49 sewn into the lower-body garment portion 122 just before each electrode. This prevents the electrical cables 36 from coming off the electrodes even if the electrical cables 36 are pulled in response to the expansion and contraction of the lower-body garment portion 122.

[0057] A pair of yin-yang electrodes, an eleventh electrode 30k at the top and a twelfth electrode 30l at the bottom, are provided at the location corresponding to the right front thigh, spanning the right quadriceps. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from the lower body control unit 126 via an eleventh electrical cable 36k and a twelfth electrical cable 36l, respectively, to electrically stimulate the right quadriceps. The eleventh electrical cable 36k runs from the eleventh electrode 30k on the right front thigh through the crotch and connects to the thirteenth electrode 30m on the left front thigh, thereby electrically connecting to the second control unit connector 20b via the thirteenth electrode 30m. An eleventh cable fastening tape 49k is sewn in front of the eleventh electrode 30k, and the eleventh electrical cable 36k is entangled with the eleventh cable fastening tape 49k to secure it in place. The twelfth electric cable 36l is connected from the twelfth electrode portion 30l on the right front thigh through the crotch to the fourteenth electrode portion 30n on the left front thigh, and is then electrically connected to the second control unit connector 20b via the fourteenth electrode portion 30n. A twelfth cable fastening tape 49l is sewn in front of the twelfth electrode portion 30l, and the twelfth electric cable 36l is entangled with the twelfth cable fastening tape 49l to fix it in place.

[0058] A thirteenth electrode 30m is provided at the top and a fourteenth electrode 30n is provided at the bottom as a pair of yin and yang electrodes that vertically straddle the left quadriceps, and electrical stimulation is given to the left quadriceps by applying a voltage between these electrodes from lower body control unit 126 via a thirteenth electric cable 36m and a fourteenth electric cable 36n, respectively, at a location corresponding to the left front thigh. A thirteenth cable fastening tape 49m is sewn in front of the thirteenth electrode 30m, and the thirteenth electric cable 36m and the eleventh electric cable 36k that connect the thirteenth electrode 30m and the second control unit connection part 20b are entangled in the thirteenth cable fastening tape 49m to fix them in place. A 14th cable fastening tape 49n is sewn in front of the 14th electrode portion 30n, and the 14th electrical cable 36n and the 12th electrical cable 36l connecting the 14th electrode portion 30n and the second control unit connection portion 20b are entangled in the 14th cable fastening tape 49n to fix their positions.

[0059] A pair of yin-yang electrodes, a fifteenth electrode 30o at the top and a sixteenth electrode 30p at the bottom, are provided at the location corresponding to the back of the right thigh, spanning the hamstrings, such as the right biceps femoris. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from the lower body control unit 126 via the fifteenth and sixteenth electrical cables 36o and 36p, respectively, to electrically stimulate the hamstrings, such as the right biceps femoris. The fifteenth electrical cable 36o runs from the fifteenth electrode 30o at the back of the right thigh through the crotch and connects to the seventeenth electrode 30q at the back of the left thigh, thereby electrically connecting to the second control unit connector 20b via the seventeenth electrode 30q. A fifteenth cable fastening tape 49o is sewn in front of the fifteenth electrode 30o, and the fifteenth electrical cable 36o is entangled with the fifteenth cable fastening tape 49o to secure it in place. The 16th electric cable 36p is connected from the 16th electrode portion 30p on the back of the right thigh through the crotch to the 18th electrode portion 30r on the back of the left thigh, and is thereby electrically connected to the second control unit connector 20b via the 18th electrode portion 30r. A 16th cable fastening tape 49p is sewn in front of the 16th electrode portion 30p, and the 16th electric cable 36p is entangled with the 16th cable fastening tape 49r to fix its position.

[0060] A pair of yin-yang electrodes, a 17th electrode 30q at the top and an 18th electrode 30r at the bottom, are provided at a location corresponding to the back of the left thigh, spanning the hamstrings such as the left biceps femoris, and a voltage is applied between these electrodes from lower body control unit 126 via 17th electrical cable 36q and 18th electrical cable 36r, respectively, to provide electrical stimulation to the hamstrings such as the left biceps femoris. A 17th cable fastening tape 49q is sewn in front of 17th electrode 30q, and 17th electrical cable 36q and 15th electrical cable 36o, which connect 17th electrode 30q on the back of the left thigh to second control unit connection part 20b on the left front thigh, are entangled in 17th cable fastening tape 49q to fix them in place. An 18th cable fastening tape 49r is sewn in front of the 18th electrode portion 30r, and the 18th electrical cable 36r and the 16th electrical cable 36p, which connect the 18th electrode portion 30r on the back of the left thigh and the second control unit connection portion 20b on the left front thigh, are entangled in the 18th cable fastening tape 49r to fix them in place.

[0061] A pair of yin-yang electrodes spanning the right gluteus maximus and medius muscles are provided at the location of the right buttock, with a 19th electrode 30s near the upper outer gluteus medius and a 20th electrode 30t near the lower inner gluteus maximus. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from the lower body control unit 126 via a 19th electrical cable 36s and a 20th electrical cable 36t, respectively, to electrically stimulate the right gluteus maximus and medius. The 19th electrical cable 36s runs from the 19th electrode 30s on the right buttock through the center of the upper buttock to a 21st electrode 30u on the left buttock, thereby electrically connecting to the second control unit connector 20b via the 21st electrode 30u. A 19th cable fastening tape 49s is sewn in front of the 19th electrode 30s, and the 19th electrical cable 36s is entangled with the 19th cable fastening tape 49s to secure it in place. The 20th electric cable 36t runs from the 20th electrode portion 30t on the right buttock, passes through the center of the upper buttock, and is connected to the 22nd electrode portion 30v on the left buttock, thereby being electrically connected to the second control unit connector 20b via the 22nd electrode portion 30v. A 20th cable fastening tape 49t is sewn in front of the 20th electrode portion 30t, and the 20th electric cable 36t is entangled with the 20th cable fastening tape 49t to fix its position.

[0062] At the location corresponding to the left buttock, a pair of yin-yang electrodes are provided that vertically straddle the left gluteus maximus and gluteus medius, with a 21st electrode 30u near the upper outer gluteus medius and a 22nd electrode 30v near the lower inner gluteus maximus, and electrical stimulation is given to the left gluteus maximus and gluteus medius by applying a voltage between these electrodes from lower body control unit 126 via a 21st electric cable 36u and a 22nd electric cable 36v, respectively. A 21st cable fastening tape 49u is sewn in front of the 21st electrode 30u, and the 21st electric cable 36u and the 19th electric cable 36s that connect the 21st electrode 30u on the left gluteus medius to the second control unit connection part 20b on the left front thigh are entangled with the 21st cable fastening tape 49u to fix them in place. A 22nd cable fastening tape 49v is sewn in front of the 22nd electrode portion 30v, and the 22nd electrical cable 36v and the 20th electrical cable 36t, which connect the 22nd electrode portion 30v on the left gluteus maximus to the second control unit connection portion 20b on the left front thigh, are entangled in the 22nd cable fastening tape 49v to fix them in place.

[0063] A cable fastening tape 59b for fastening an eleventh electric cable 36k connecting the eleventh electrode portion 30k and the thirteenth electrode portion 30m, a twelfth electric cable 36l connecting the twelfth electrode portion 30l and the fourteenth electrode portion 30n, a fifteenth electric cable 36o connecting the fifteenth electrode portion 30o and the seventeenth electrode portion 30q, and a sixteenth electric cable 36p connecting the sixteenth electrode portion 30p and the eighteenth electrode portion 30r is sewn to the fabric near the crotch of the lower-body clothing portion 122, and the four electric cables 36 are bundled together and fastened near the crotch by the cable fastening tape 59b. A cable fastening tape 59c for fastening the 19th electric cable 36s connecting the 19th electrode portion 30s and the 21st electrode portion 30u and the 20th electric cable 36t connecting the 20th electrode portion 30t and the 22nd electrode portion 30v is sewn to the fabric of the lower-body clothing portion 122 near the center of the upper buttocks, and the two electric cables 36 are bundled together and fixed near the center of the upper buttocks by the cable fastening tape 59c.

[0064] The above-described arrangement and wiring allows the electrical cable to be routed without being exposed to the outside. Furthermore, because the components other than the lower body control unit 126 are water resistant, the fitness wear 102 can be washed simply by removing the lower body control unit 126, without removing the electrode section 30 or the electrical cable 36. Note that the figure shows an example in which electrodes are arranged mainly for men in the lower body clothing section 122, but the arrangement and size of the electrodes may be different for women.

[0065] FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged view showing the arrangement and structure of the garment parts, electrodes, and electrical cables. At least a portion of each of the upper-body garment part 120 and the lower-body garment part 122 has a multi-layer structure in which an outer fabric 34 and a lining 35 are layered. An electrode part 30, at least the outer surface of which is formed of a conductive polymer fabric 31, is provided in a predetermined location on the lining 35. The multiple electrode parts 30 are positioned facing each of the multiple target body parts so as to be in close proximity to each of the multiple target body parts for providing electrical stimulation to the multiple target body parts. The electrode part 30 includes a pad member 32 provided on the side of the lining 35 of the upper-body garment part 120 and the lower-body garment part 122 that faces the wearer's skin, and a conductive polymer fabric 31 that covers the pad member 32. The pad member 32 is formed, for example, from a rectangular parallelepiped foam rubber, and this pad member 32 forms the overall convex shape of the electrode part 30. The conductive polymer fabric 31 is a fabric knitted from conductive fibers formed by attaching or impregnating conductive polymers such as PEDOT-pTS (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-p-toluenesulfonic acid) or PEDOT-PSS (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-polystyrenesulfonic acid) to fibers such as silk or synthetic fibers such as nylon. Because the conductive polymer fabric 31 does not contain metal, it is highly durable to washing. In particular, when conductive fibers with metals such as silver attached or contained therein are used, there is a risk of reduced conductivity due to oxidation or corrosion, or of developing metal allergies depending on the user's constitution. However, the conductive polymer fabric 31 does not have these concerns. Furthermore, when conductive fibers with metals attached thereto are also risks of reduced conductivity due to friction-induced peeling, but the conductive polymer fabric 31 does not have these concerns. The conductive polymer fabric 31 covering the pad member 32 has its edges sewn with a merrowlock or other stitching to prevent fraying, and is then sewn to the lining 35 at the electrode stitching section 40 shown in the figure. By constructing the electrodes from conductive polymer fabric 31, electricity can be passed between the electrodes without the need for gel pads, as is the case with electrodes in conventional electrical muscle stimulation devices. In addition, by moistening the electrodes with a spray or the like to keep them slightly hydrated, the state of electricity passing between the electrodes can be further stabilized even at the start of exercise when the wearer has not yet broken a sweat.The fibers of the conductive polymer fabric 31 may be raised to further stabilize the conductivity.

[0066] An electric cable 36 is connected to the multiple electrode units 30 via electrode connectors 33. For example, the multiple electrode units 30, each consisting of an anode and a cathode, are connected via the electric cable 36, and the electrode units 30 are also connected to the control unit connector 20 via the electric cable 36. The electric cable 36 is connected to the conductive polymer fabric 31 via the electrode connector 33, which penetrates the lining 35 and electrically connects the front and back of the fabric. The electrode connector 33 is, for example, a metal fastener such as a snap button, which can achieve electrical connection by fitting the convex electrode connector 33a into the concave electrode connector 33b. The convex electrode connector 33a is attached by sandwiching a crimp terminal 38 formed at the end of the electric cable 36. The concave electrode connector 33b is attached by penetrating the lining 35 at a position inside the electrode unit 30 that contacts the pad member 32, sandwiching the conductive polymer fabric 31 and the lining 35 between them, thereby electrically connecting the front and back of the lining 35. The convex electrode connection portion 33a is fitted into the concave electrode connection portion 33b, thereby electrically connecting the electric cable 36 to the conductive polymer fabric 31. The electric cable 36 is fixed in position by, for example, wrapping it around a cable fastening tape 49 provided at the cable fastening position 41.

[0067] At least a portion of the electric cable 36 and the connection portion between the electric cable 36 and the electrode connection portion 33 are contained in a closed space formed by sewing together the outer fabric 34 and the lining 35 at least partly around the periphery thereof. For example, the outer fabric 34 and the lining 35 are sewn together at the position of the inter-fabric sewn portion 37 shown in FIG. 7 to form the closed space 39. Note that in this figure, the outer fabric 34 and the lining 35 are drawn far apart for the sake of convenience in explaining the structure, but in reality, the outer fabric 34 and the lining 35 are closer together, and the outer fabric 34 and the lining 35 are sewn together at the position of the inter-fabric sewn portion 37 to form the closed space 39. Furthermore, the "closed" in the "closed space" does not necessarily mean completely sealed; it is sufficient if the periphery is sewn to an extent that at least the connection portion between the electric cable 36 and the electrode connection portion 33 and the electric cable 36 are not easily exposed to the outside, forming an appropriately closed space. Furthermore, a maintenance hole through which the electric cable 36 can be inserted and removed may be provided around the periphery of the "closed space." With the above-described structure, the first electrode portion 30a to the second electrode portion 30v are provided at respective locations on the fitness wear 102.

[0068] FIG. 8 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and structure of the garment part, electrodes, electrical cables, control unit, and control unit connector. The structure of the electrode part 30 is the same as in FIG. 7, but this figure further explains the connection between the control unit 128 and the control unit connector 20, and the connection between the control unit connector 20 and the electrode part 30. The control unit 128 is the upper body control unit 124 or the lower body control unit 126, and is attached to the control unit connector 20. The control unit connector 20 has a convex fastener 46, such as a snap fit, formed on the edge of a resin substrate. The convex fastener 46 fits into a recess formed on the edge of the control unit 128, securing one end of the control unit 128 to the control unit connector 20. The other end of the control unit 128 is fixed to the control unit connector 20 with a fastener, such as a magnetic button 45. Both ends of the control unit connector 20 are sewn to the outer fabric 34 at the flat stitching 79.

[0069] The pad connector 44 has a flat metal head and legs protruding from the head. The legs pass through holes provided in the control unit connection portion 20, the crimp terminal 38 of the electric cable 36, and the washer 42, respectively, and are fixed to the control unit connection portion 20 while sandwiching these. This electrically connects the front and back of the control unit connection portion 20. A plurality of spring connectors 43, which are metal elastic contacts, are provided at multiple locations on the bottom surface of the control unit 128 in positions corresponding to the electrode connection portions 33. The control unit 128 is attached and fixed to the control unit connection portion 20 with the spring connectors 43 pressing against the flat head of the pad connector 44. This allows electricity to flow from the power source of the control unit 128 to the electric cable 36 via the spring connectors 43 and the pad connector 44, and voltage is applied from the electric cable 36 to the plurality of electrodes 30 via the electrode connection portions 33. The electric cable 36 is fixed in position by, for example, wrapping it around a cable fastening tape 49 provided at a cable fastening position 41 near the electrode section 30 .

[0070] FIG. 9 is an external view of an electric cable. The electric cable 36 is a flexible electric wire and is composed of a flexible cable portion 48, resin molds 47 provided at both ends, and crimp terminals 38. The crimp terminals 38 are flat, annular metal terminals, with a central hole through which the electrode connection portion 33a and the legs of the pad connector 44 are passed and electrically connected to them. The flexible cable portion 48 is composed of a flexible elastic core material made of resin, around which multiple coated conductors formed by coating a core wire with resin and multiple resin wires are alternately wound in a spiral shape. Both ends of the coated conductors are connected to the crimp terminals 38, and the connection portions are covered with a resin mold 47. The elastic core material has elasticity that allows it to return to its original shape even when bent. FIG. 9(a) schematically shows the electric cable 36 in a contracted state, and FIG. 9(b) schematically shows the electric cable 36 in an extended state. When the electric cable 36 is stretched, gaps widen between the spirally wound coated conductor wires, and the elastic core material may be partially exposed through the gaps. The electric cable 36, consisting of the elastic core material, the spirally wound coated conductor wires, and the resin wire material, is stretchable in the longitudinal direction of the elastic core material, allowing it to stretch up to, for example, approximately 1.4 times its original length. Therefore, its stretch rate is higher than that of the relatively stretchy fabric of the fitness wear 102. Even if the fitness wear 102 stretches due to the user's body shape or movement, and the electric cable 36 is pulled in response to the stretch, the stretching of the electric cable 36 can sufficiently absorb the tension, preventing the electric cable 36 from breaking or becoming detached from the electrode portion 30, etc. Inside the resin mold 47, adhesive prevents the crimp terminal 38 and the expandable cable portion 48 from coming loose and also provides a waterproofing treatment to prevent water from entering the expandable cable portion 48. The core wire within the insulated conductor wire of the expandable cable portion 48 is soldered to the crimp terminal 38. Due to its water resistance, the electric cable 36 can be washed without being removed from the fitness wear 102. Therefore, it can be placed in the enclosed space 39 formed between the outer fabric 34 and the inner fabric 35, and is not exposed to the outside, so the aesthetic appearance of the fitness wear 102 is not impaired.

[0071] FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged view illustrating the connection portion and sewn portion of the electric cable 36 to the lining 35. The electric cable 36 is attached to the back side of the electrode unit 30 in the lining 35 by sandwiching the crimp terminal 38 at its end between the electrode connection unit 33. A cable fastening tape 49 made of a non-stretchable synthetic fiber tape is placed near the electrode connection unit 33, and both ends of the cable fastening tape are sewn to the lining 35. The electric cable 36 is passed through the cable fastening tape 49 and entangled, taking a detour rather than the shortest distance from the electrode connection unit 33 to the cable fastening tape 49, with some slack in the cable length. The multiple electric cables 36 are routed in a generally straight line between the electrode unit 30 and the control unit connection unit 20 or between the electrode units 30, with little slack. However, the electric cables 36 are routed around the electrode unit 30, i.e., from the electrode connection unit 33 to the cable fastening tape 49, with some slack in the cable length. Even if the electric cable 36 is pulled in response to the expansion of the fitness wear 102 when the user moves, the stretch is absorbed by the elasticity of the electric cable 36, and the pulling is stopped by the cable fastening tape 49. Furthermore, even if the cable fastening tape 49 itself is pulled slightly, the pulling can be absorbed by the slack portion (play portion) of the electric cable 36, so that no more load than necessary is applied to the crimp terminal 38 and the electrode connection portion 33, and the electric cable 36 can be prevented from coming off the connection portion.

[0072] FIG. 11 is an explanatory cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the configuration of an electric cable 36. Because this figure is merely a diagram for conceptually explaining the components of the electric cable 36, it is drawn in a convenient shape that differs from the actual cross-sectional shape. FIG. 11(a) illustrates an electric cable 36 according to this embodiment, which is primarily composed of one first covered conductor wire 93 and one second covered conductor wire 94. The first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 are composed of a conductor wire 85 and an insulating coating 86 that coats the conductor wire 85 with resin. The elastic core material 95 is a stretchable twisted yarn formed by twisting multiple rubber threads. The fixing thread 89 is a thread thinner than the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94, and is formed by twisting multiple threads of a synthetic fiber such as nylon. The first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 are spirally wound around the elastic core material 95 in the same winding direction so as to be alternately arranged. Furthermore, to prevent the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 from contacting each other and being damaged during expansion and contraction, the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 are wound with a fixing thread 89 interposed therebetween. Furthermore, to make it easier to maintain the wound state of the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94, the fixing thread 89 is wound while being woven in a direction intersecting the winding direction of the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94. In this way, the electric cable 36 is formed.

[0073] 11(b) illustrates an electric cable 36 according to a modified example, which is mainly composed of two first covered conductor wires 93 and two second covered conductor wires 94. The electric cable 36 is formed by spirally winding the two first covered conductor wires 93 and the two second covered conductor wires 94 alternately around an elastic core material 95 while braiding them with four fixing threads 89 interposed therebetween.

[0074] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the internal structure of the resin mold 47. FIG. 12(a) is a cross-sectional view from above, and FIG. 12(b) is a cross-sectional view from the side. This figure is merely a diagram for conceptually explaining the internal structure, including parts not visible from the outside, and therefore, for convenience, parts not visible from the outside are drawn with solid lines. The crimp terminal 38 is a round bare crimp terminal and is composed of a racket-shaped flat plate portion 90 with one end formed into a roughly ring shape and a cylindrical wire fixing portion 91 provided at the other end of the flat plate portion 90. The first coated conductor wire 93 and the second coated conductor wire 94 of the electric cable 36 are passed through the wire fixing portion 91. Their core wires are soldered to the flat plate portion 90 (solder joint portion 98), and are then fixed with an adhesive from above the solder joint portion 98 (fixing portion 99). The resin mold 47 is composed of a sealing molded portion 96 molded from resin to seal the fixing portion 99, the ends of the first coated conductor 93 and the second coated conductor 94, and the wire fixing portion 91, and a cylindrical hollow molded portion 97 that encases the portion of the end of the electric cable 36 that is not sealed by the sealing molded portion 96, and is formed into a pen cap shape as a whole.

[0075] Here, among the components included in the electric cable 36, the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 are not passed through the wire fixing portion 91 together with the elastic core material 95 to be fixed and sealed, but rather only the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 are passed through the wire fixing portion 91 to be fixed and sealed. That is, the elastic core material 95 is cut at a position just before it reaches the sealing molding portion 96 or the wire fixing portion 91, and the relative positions of the elastic core material 95 and the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 are fixed near the cut portion by a core fixing portion 92. The core fixing portion 92 is a metal fitting that prevents the elastic core material 95 from shifting from the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94. The core fixing portion 92 is not fixed to the resin mold 47 and is free to move within the hollow molding portion 97. The core fixing portion 92 is merely intended to fix the elastic core 95 to the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94, and can only move freely inside the hollow molded portion 97 together with the electric cable 36 from the core fixing portion 92 onwards as the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 between the core fixing portion 92 and the encapsulating molded portion 96 expand and contract. Although the elastic core 95 does not reach the area between the core fixing portion 92 and the encapsulating molded portion 96, the hollow molded portion 97 surrounds and protects the first covered conductor wire 93 and the second covered conductor wire 94 between them, thereby preventing damage to that area due to external bending stress. As shown in Figure 10, the tensile stress of the electric cable 36 is contained by wrapping it around the cable fastening tape 49 near the electrode portion 30, so that the first coated conductor wire 93 and the second coated conductor wire 94 can be prevented from being damaged by excessive tensile stress between the core material fixing portion 92 and the sealing molding portion 96.

[0076] 13 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control unit. The control unit 128 includes a power supply section 22, a control section 28, and a wireless communication section 58. The power supply section 22, the control section 28, and the wireless communication section 58 are housed in a housing shaped to be attachable to the control unit connector 20. The control section 28 includes a power supply control section 50, a current detection section 52, an electrical stimulation control section 54, and a setting section 56. The control unit 128 includes an upper body control unit 124 attached to the upper body garment section 120 and a lower body control unit 126 attached to the lower body garment section 122, each having the same configuration. However, as a modification, the upper body control unit 124 and the lower body control unit 126 may have different configurations or shapes.

[0077] Each block of the control unit 28 can be realized in hardware terms by elements or mechanical devices such as integrated circuits, and in software terms by computer programs, etc., but here, functional blocks realized by the cooperation of these elements are depicted. Therefore, those skilled in the art who have read this specification will understand that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combining hardware and software. The same applies to each block in Figure 14.

[0078] Power supply unit 22 is a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery, but may also be a replaceable primary battery. Power supply unit 22 is electrically connected to a wireless communication module serving as wireless communication unit 58 and a control circuit serving as control unit 28, and supplies power to each of them. Note that a power button may be provided on control unit 128, and power supply unit 22 may be turned on / off in response to operation of the power button.

[0079] The power supply control unit 50 controls charging of the power supply unit 22 and transmits information indicating the charging state to the exercise control device 12 via the wireless communication unit 58. The current detection unit 52 detects resistance between the anode and cathode electrodes to determine whether current is flowing between the electrodes. For example, the current detection unit 52 of the upper body control unit 124 detects resistance between the first electrode 30a and the second electrode 30b corresponding to the abdominal muscles, between the third electrode 30c and the fourth electrode 30d corresponding to the right flank, between the fifth electrode 30e and the sixth electrode 30f corresponding to the left flank, between the seventh electrode 30g and the eighth electrode 30h corresponding to the right arm, and between the ninth electrode 30i and the tenth electrode 30j corresponding to the left arm. The current detection unit 52 of the lower body control unit 126 detects resistance values ​​between the eleventh electrode 30k and the twelfth electrode 30l corresponding to the right front thigh, between the thirteenth electrode 30m and the fourteenth electrode 30n corresponding to the left front thigh, between the fifteenth electrode 30o and the sixteenth electrode 30p corresponding to the back of the right thigh, between the seventeenth electrode 30q and the eighteenth electrode 30r corresponding to the back of the left thigh, between the nineteenth electrode 30s and the twentieth electrode 30t corresponding to the right buttock, and between the twenty-first electrode 30u and the twenty-second electrode 30v corresponding to the left buttock. The current detection unit 52 detects that current is possible when the detected resistance value is less than a threshold value, and that current is not possible when the detected resistance value is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0080] When the current detection unit 52 detects that current is available, the electrical stimulation control unit 54 applies a set voltage between the anode and cathode electrodes for a predetermined operating time (e.g., 10 minutes) and a predetermined cycle (e.g., a cycle with a frequency of 20 Hz). That is, electrical stimulation is applied to the locations where the electrodes are placed, such as the user's abdominal muscles, flanks, arms, legs, and buttocks. The setting unit 56 sets the voltage value and its increase / decrease controlled by the electrical stimulation control unit 54 in accordance with a predetermined exercise control program. The set voltage value can be set to one of 100 levels of intensity, for example. The exercise control program has two modes: a first mode aimed at muscle hypertrophy applies electrical stimulation mainly at a frequency of 20 Hz, and a second mode aimed at aerobic exercise applies electrical stimulation mainly at a frequency lower than 20 Hz (e.g., 4 to 10 Hz). The first mode, based on a frequency of, for example, 20 Hz, is used for resistance training, which mainly involves involuntary movements caused by electrical stimulation from the fitness wear 102, with only slow voluntary movements added for the purpose of muscle hypertrophy. The second mode, based on a frequency of, for example, 4 Hz, is used for cardio training, a hybrid training method that combines involuntary movements caused by electrical stimulation from the fitness wear 102 with voluntary movements such as bike training. Cardio training is anaerobic exercise through speed movements and aerobic exercise aimed at burning fat through calorie consumption. The setting unit 56 contains an exercise control program that operates based on instructions received from the wireless communication unit 58, as well as an exercise control program that runs independently. Execution of the exercise control program can be initiated by operating a remote control unit (e.g., an information terminal such as a mobile phone and a control application installed on the terminal) connected via wireless communication.

[0081] The wireless communication unit 58 receives information such as the set voltage from the exercise control device 12 via short-range wireless communication and sends it to the setting unit 56. When the wireless communication unit 58 receives information about the set voltage value or information instructing the exercise control device 12 to increase or decrease the set voltage value, the setting unit 56 increases or decreases the set voltage value to be applied based on the received information. For example, when setting the voltage value before starting exercise, each time the set voltage value is increased or decreased, the electrical stimulation control unit 54 applies voltage between the electrodes at the new set voltage value, allowing the user to experience and confirm the new set voltage value, i.e., the exercise intensity. If the wireless communication unit 58 receives an instruction to increase or decrease the exercise intensity from the exercise control device 12 during exercise, i.e., while voltage is being applied, it sends information about the increased or decreased set voltage to the setting unit 56, and the setting unit 56 increases or decreases the set voltage value. However, even if the wireless communication unit 58 receives an instruction to increase or decrease the exercise intensity from a device other than the currently connected exercise control device 12, it ignores the instruction and does not follow the instruction to increase or decrease the exercise intensity from another device. This is to prevent the voltage value from being increased or decreased without the user's permission. The wireless communication unit 58 may transmit information indicating the voltage application state by the electrical stimulation control unit 54, i.e., the exercise execution state, to the exercise control device 12. The control unit 128 may be provided with a pairing button, and the wireless communication unit 58 may establish a wireless communication connection when the pairing button is turned on. As a variant, the wireless communication unit 58 may be paired with a wireless communication unit 58 included in another control unit via short-range wireless communication. That is, the wireless communication unit 58 of the upper body control unit 124 and the wireless communication unit 58 of the lower body control unit 126 may be wirelessly connected, and linked by one transmitting information such as a set voltage value to the other. In this case, for example, when a voltage value is set in the setting unit 56 of the upper body control unit 124, the set voltage value is transmitted from the wireless communication unit 58 of the upper body control unit 124 to the wireless communication unit 58 of the lower body control unit 126.

[0082] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the exercise control device 12. The exercise control device 12 includes a control unit 70, a wireless communication unit 71, a wired communication unit 72, and a display unit 74. The control unit 70 includes a display control unit 61, a setting processing unit 63, and an information management unit 65. The first and second exercise programs are realized by an exercise control program that controls voltage using the control unit 128 and controls video display in conjunction with the voltage control. The third and fourth exercise programs are realized by an exercise control program that controls voltage in conjunction with the voltage control by simultaneously transmitting control signals such as a start signal to multiple control units 128 of multiple users using the exercise control device 12. Each user performs the exercise program by moving their body using the video displayed on the display device 106 as a model.

[0083] The wireless communication unit 71 transmits and receives information to and from the control unit 128 via short-range wireless communication. When supporting multiple users simultaneously, the wireless communication unit 71 must simultaneously communicate with at least as many control units 128 as the number of users. Therefore, the wireless communication unit 71 primarily uses one-way broadcast communication, and uses two-way communication via pairing as needed. In the case of two-way communication, the information received from the control unit 128 may include individual identification information and a unique network address (MAC address) used for user registration and individual management. Furthermore, by receiving information from the control unit 128, it is possible to determine whether the multiple fitness wear 102 of multiple users is powered on. The display unit 74 is a touch-panel display device such as an LCD panel or an organic EL panel, and displays information on the screen and accepts operational inputs from the user or instructor.

[0084] The setting processor 63 sets the control content for the control unit 128 based on operation inputs to the display unit 74 by the user or instructor. When multiple users are simultaneously supported, the setting processor 63 sets the control content for multiple control units 128 for each user. The setting processor 63 may be able to set different control content for each of multiple body parts. The setting processor 63 sets the intensity of the electrical stimulation by the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 as the control content, i.e., a voltage value at one of 100 levels. The setting processor 63 controls the exercise by the control unit 128 by broadcasting information indicating the control content to all control units 128 via the wireless communication unit 71. For example, the setting processor 63 controls the control units 128 by transmitting an exercise start signal, a pause signal, an end signal, a voltage value signal, etc. to the control units 128. However, it is preferable to minimize communication in order to reduce battery consumption due to communication in the control units 128. For example, the voltage value set in the control unit 128 and data on the exercise control program are stored in the information management unit 65, and voltage value information is not acquired from the control units 128. Alternatively, the exercise program may be determined to have ended after a predetermined time has elapsed without transmitting or receiving an exercise end signal.

[0085] The display control unit 61 displays a list on the display unit 74 of information related to the execution status of the exercise program, the setting status and operation status of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10, etc. This list display may also include users in the personal space 81 connected via communication. The display control unit 61 transmits data related to the execution status of the exercise program to the display control device 104 via the wired communication unit 72 in order to display an example video or the like on the display device 106 based on the exercise program. The display control unit 61 displays an image of a human body model, and also causes the display device 106, via the display control device 104, to display an image that dynamically shows the rhythm of voltage pulses and the movement of muscles during exercise in accordance with the control status of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10.

[0086] FIG. 15 illustrates another example of an upper-body garment section. Upper-body garment section 220 in this figure differs from upper-body garment section 120 in FIG. 5 in the configuration and arrangement of some of the electrodes, and therefore also in the arrangement of electric cable 36 and cable fastening tape 49. First, instead of first electrode 30a and second electrode 30b, which are positioned on the left and right rectus abdominis muscles in upper-body garment section 120 in FIG. 5 to apply horizontal electrical stimulation, upper-body garment section 220 in FIG. 15 has two electrodes positioned vertically on each of the left and right rectus abdominis muscles to apply vertical electrical stimulation. Specifically, a pair of yin-yang electrodes, first electrode 230a and second electrode 230b, are provided at the top and bottom of the right rectus abdominis muscle, respectively, at the location corresponding to the right rectus abdominis muscle. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from upper-body control unit 124 via first electric cable 236a and second electric cable 236b, respectively. First cable fastening tape 249a is sewn in front of first electrode portion 230a, and first electric cable 236a connecting first electrode portion 230a and first control unit connector 20a is wrapped around first cable fastening tape 249a to fix its position. Second cable fastening tape 249b is sewn in front of second electrode portion 230b, and second electric cable 236b connecting second electrode portion 230b and first control unit connector 20a is wrapped around second cable fastening tape 249b to fix its position. Third electrode portion 230c is provided on the upper side and fourth electrode portion 230d is provided on the lower side as a pair of yin and yang electrodes that vertically straddle the left rectus abdominis muscle, and voltage is applied between these electrodes from upper body control unit 124 via third electric cable 236c and fourth electric cable 236d, respectively. A third cable fastening tape 249c is sewn in front of the third electrode portion 230c, and a third electric cable 236c which is wired from the third electrode portion 230c on the left abdominal muscle through the left flank, back, and right flank to the first control unit connector 20a on the front side is entangled and fixed in position around the third cable fastening tape 249c. A fourth cable fastening tape 249d is sewn in front of the fourth electrode portion 230d, and a fourth electric cable 236d which is wired from the fourth electrode portion 230d on the left abdominal muscle through the left flank, back, and right flank to the first control unit connector 20a on the front side is entangled and fixed in position around the fourth cable fastening tape 249d.

[0087] In upper body garment portion 220 in Figure 15, two electrodes are also arranged horizontally on each of the left and right pectoral muscles to apply horizontal electrical stimulation. Specifically, a fifth electrode 230e on the right and a sixth electrode 230f on the left are provided at the locations corresponding to the right pectoral muscle as a pair of yin-yang electrodes spanning the right pectoral muscle from side to side, and a voltage is applied between these electrodes from upper body control unit 124 via fifth electrical cables 236e and 236f, respectively. A fifth cable fastening tape 249e is sewn in front of fifth electrode 230e, and fifth electrical cable 236e connecting fifth electrode 230e and first control unit connector 20a is entangled with fifth cable fastening tape 249e to fix its position. A sixth cable fastening tape 249f is sewn in front of the sixth electrode 230f, and a sixth electric cable 236f connecting the sixth electrode 230f and the first control unit connector 20a is entangled and fixed in position around the sixth cable fastening tape 249f. A seventh electrode 230g on the right and an eighth electrode 230h on the left are provided at locations corresponding to the left pectoralis major as a pair of yin and yang electrodes spanning the left pectoralis major from side to side, and a voltage is applied between these electrodes from the upper body control unit 124 via seventh electric cables 236g and eighth electric cables 236h, respectively. A seventh cable fastening tape 249g is sewn in front of the seventh electrode 230g, and a seventh electric cable 236g running from the seventh electrode 230g on the left pectoralis major through the left flank, back, and right flank to the first control unit connector 20a on the front side is entangled and fixed in position around the seventh cable fastening tape 249g. An eighth cable fastening tape 249h is sewn in front of the eighth electrode portion 230h, and the eighth electrical cable 236h, which is wired from the eighth electrode portion 230h on the left pectoralis major muscle through the left flank, back, and right flank to the first control unit connection portion 20a on the front side, is entangled in the eighth cable fastening tape 249h and fixed in position.

[0088] The fitness wear 102 described above can also be used in hybrid training, which combines involuntary exercise using the electrical muscle stimulation device 10 with voluntary exercise, such as bike training using a fitness bike or spin bike. The first and second exercise programs may involve one exercise control device 12 linked to one bike, providing bike training for each user. Alternatively, the third and fourth exercise programs may involve one exercise control device 12 linked to multiple bikes, providing group training in which multiple users follow the same program while watching the same video. The exercise program for hybrid training combined with bike training involves pedaling a bike while producing twitching in the muscles at a frequency of, for example, 4 Hz, and the program duration is, for example, 10 to 30 minutes.

[0089] In bike training, the knees and thighs are raised high when pedaling, but the first control unit (upper body control unit 124) and the second control unit (lower body control unit 126) are installed separately on the left and right sides of the midline, so that the first control unit and the second control unit can be prevented from colliding with each other and interfering with each other. Note that the electrodes on the buttocks of lower body clothing part 122 are preferably positioned so that they do not come into contact with the bike saddle.

[0090] By linking the bike and the exercise control device 12 or by incorporating the exercise control device 12 into the bike, bike training and exercise using the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 can be linked. The display unit 74 of the exercise control device 12 may display the exercise intensity of the bike and the intensity of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10, and these intensities may be displayed in a ranking format among multiple users. In addition to an overall ranking, the ranking may also be displayed separately for the exercise intensity of the bike and the intensity of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10. In addition to the exercise intensity, the display unit 74 may also display calories and heart rate. This not only encourages competition between users, but also makes it easier for instructors to provide instruction by providing objective information.

[0091] The load control using the bike's load adjustment mechanism and the intensity control of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 may be linked. Alternatively, the exercise intensity may be adjusted solely by the voltage value of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10, without controlling the load of the bike. For example, the voltage value of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 may be increased if the number of revolutions of the bike is less than a predetermined number for a certain period of time, and decreased if the number of revolutions of the bike is greater than or equal to a predetermined number for a certain period of time. Alternatively, the voltage value of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 may be increased if the user's heart rate is less than a predetermined percentage of the maximum heart rate, and decreased if the heart rate is greater than or equal to the predetermined percentage.

[0092] By providing electrodes for the soles of the feet on the bike pedals and applying voltage to them, hybrid training can be achieved that combines electrical stimulation to the soles of the feet and calves with bike training.

[0093] When "standing pedaling," which is pedaling while standing on the pedals without sitting on the saddle, is detected, the intensity of the electrical stimulation to the upper body (particularly the arms) may be reduced to increase safety. Methods for detecting "standing pedaling" include, for example, a contact sensor on the special grip that is held when standing pedaling, a sensor that reads changes in pedal load, or a seating sensor on the saddle.

[0094] By controlling the switching of electrodes to which voltage is applied depending on the pedaling position, it is possible to further load muscles that are loaded by pedaling. In this case, a sensor that reads changes in pedal load may be used to detect the pedaling position.

[0095] If the bike is equipped with an emergency stop button, pressing the emergency stop button may cause the bike's load adjustment mechanism to suddenly increase to a high load, apply the brakes, and simultaneously cause the exercise control device 12 to stop applying voltage to the electrical muscular stimulation device 10. Alternatively, the exercise control device 12 may be equipped with an emergency stop button that stops the voltage application by the electrical muscular stimulation device 10, and when the emergency stop button is pressed, the voltage application may be stopped and simultaneously cause the linked load adjustment mechanism of the bike to suddenly increase to a high load. Alternatively, if an abnormality in the user's heart rate is detected, the exercise control device 12 may stop the voltage application by the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 and simultaneously cause the linked load adjustment mechanism of the bike to suddenly increase to a high load.

[0096] The present invention has been described above based on an embodiment. This embodiment is merely an example, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component and each treatment process, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention. Such modifications are listed below.

[0097] In a modified example, multiple liquid delivery tubes may be provided at appropriate locations on the upper-body garment portion 120 and the lower-body garment portion 122. The multiple liquid delivery tubes are thin, flexible tubes made of resin or the like, with one end connected to the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode portion 30 and the other end connected to a predetermined liquid delivery pump and water tank. The multiple liquid delivery tubes are arranged in various locations similar to the electric cables 36. This makes it easy to maintain the water retention of the electrode portion 30 without using a spray or the like.

[0098] In a modified example, electrodes made of a conductive paste such as silver particles may be printed on the floor of a fitness gym 80 where group training as the third exercise program is conducted, and a voltage may be applied to the electrodes to realize an electrical muscle stimulation device. In this case, the electrodes are printed in predetermined locations on the floor where a part of the user's body may come into contact when the user assumes a predetermined posture in the exercise program. For example, the sole of the foot may be electrically stimulated while performing an exercise to stretch the Achilles tendon or a twisting exercise with the legs spread apart. When the foot comes into contact with the electrode and electricity is applied, an LED around the electrode may light up.

[0099] In a modified example, the fitness wear 102 may be used in hybrid training that combines voluntary exercise, in which the body is consciously moved using a treadmill or step-up exercise machine, with involuntary exercise using the electrical muscle stimulation device 10.

[0100] In a modified example, the fitness wear 102 may be provided with a means for storing an air freshener or the like. In this case, the odor of sweat and the like that is produced as a result of training can be reduced. The fitness wear 102 may be made of a material with low breathability (e.g., chloroprene rubber or polyurethane). In this case, the exercise effect due to sweating can be improved and electrical conductivity can be stabilized. Conversely, the fitness wear 102 may be made of a material with high breathability. In this case, the material can be easily washed and dried.

[0101] A part may be provided to connect the upper body garment part 120 and the lower body garment part 122 of the fitness wear 102. In this case, the garment will not slip off during training. The connection may be made on either side of the back, away from the spine. Since the human body has a wider range of motion when bending forward, it is preferable to connect at the rear. Scales may be provided on the belt or hook-and-loop fastener parts. These serve as a guide for adjustment, making it easier for someone other than the wearer to tighten the garment.

[0102] The fitness wear 102 may be provided with a speaker storage or mounting section so that a small speaker can be attached or secured to a neck area, such as the neck or shoulders, i.e., a location close to the user's ears or head. The speaker may be removably secured to the neck area of ​​the fitness wear 102 using, for example, a snap fastener, hook, or hook-and-loop fastener, which prevents the speaker from shifting position or falling off. By placing the speaker in a location where the sound can be easily heard, each user can easily hear the sound of their own training without being disturbed by the sounds of neighboring users, even in an environment where multiple users exercise simultaneously, such as a fitness gym. In other words, each user can understand the content of their own training, the rhythm of their movements, and whether their movements are correct or incorrect, without mistaking them for those of other users.

[0103] (Second embodiment) The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the structure for fixing the control unit 128 to the control unit connector 20. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and will omit a description of the commonalities as appropriate.

[0104] Control unit 128 includes upper body control unit 124 and lower body control unit 126, with upper body control unit 124 attached to first control unit connection portion 20a and lower body control unit 126 attached to second control unit connection portion 20b. Here, upper body control unit 124 and lower body control unit 126 apply electrical stimulation to different parts of the body and perform different controls. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the user from mistakenly attaching upper body control unit 124 to second control unit connection portion 20b and lower body control unit 126 to first control unit connection portion 20a. Therefore, the upper body control unit 124, lower body control unit 126, first control unit connection portion 20a, and second control unit connection portion 20b are provided with a structure to prevent mis-attachment.

[0105] 16 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the arrangement and structure of the garment part, electrodes, electric cable, control unit, and control unit connector in the second embodiment. A concave fastener 140 for forming a horizontally elongated slit-shaped recess 141 at the end of the flat, resin-made control unit connector 20 is attached to the control unit connector 20 with a rivet 143, sandwiching the outer fabric 34. A convex fastener 142 made of resin is formed at the end of the control unit 128, and the convex fastener 142 is fitted into the recess 141 of the concave fastener 140, thereby fixing one end of the control unit 128 to the control unit connector 20. The other end of the control unit 128 is fixed to the control unit connector 20 with a fastener such as a magnetic button 45.

[0106] The control unit 128 and the control unit connection part 20 are electrically connected by the spring connector 43 contacting the pad connector 44. Here, the pad connector 44, magnetic button 45, recessed fastener 140, etc. are fixed to the control unit connection part 20 by sandwiching the outer material 34. Therefore, the movement of the user wearing the fitness wear 102 may pull on the outer material 34, which may cause the pad connector 44 to become misaligned. There is also a risk of deformation pressure, such as bending or distortion, being applied to the control unit connection part 20. In this regard, the spring connector 43 and the pad connector 44 are connected by contact rather than by fitting, which can prevent movements such as misalignment of the pad connector 44 and deformation of the control unit connection part 20, thereby preventing damage to the connection structure. Furthermore, the elasticity of the connection between the spring connector 43 and the pad connector 44 allows it to absorb pressure, even if external pressure is applied to the control unit 128. Furthermore, even if the user's movement causes inertia or centrifugal force to move the control unit 128 away from the control unit connection portion 20, the extension force of the spring connector 43 can maintain the electrical connection between the spring connector 43 and the pad connector 44.

[0107] 17 shows the mounting structure of the control unit 128 and the control unit connection part 20 in the second embodiment. A concave fastener 140 is attached to the end of the control unit connection part 20 with two rivets 143 in a manner that sandwiches the outer fabric 34 (not shown) from above, thereby attaching the concave fastener 140 to the control unit connection part 20 and forming a recess 141 between the control unit connection part 20 and the concave fastener 140. A convex fastener 142 of the control unit 128 is fitted into the recess 141, thereby fixing the control unit 128 to the control unit connection part 20.

[0108] Figure 18 shows the mix-up prevention structure in the second embodiment. Figure 18(a) is a front view of upper body control unit 124, Figure 18(b) is a front view of lower body control unit 126, Figure 18(c) is a front view of first control unit connection portion 20a, and Figure 18(d) is a front view of second control unit connection portion 20b. Of the three dashed dotted lines shown, center dashed line 150 is a line that indicates the centers of upper body control unit 124, lower body control unit 126, first control unit connection portion 20a, and second control unit connection portion 20b.

[0109] 18(a) is located to the right of central chain line 150, with its right end abutting right chain line 151 and its left end not abutting left chain line 152. Recess 141 of first control unit connector 20a shown in FIG. 18(c), to which upper body control unit 124 is attached, is also located to the right of central chain line 150, with its right end abutting right chain line 151 and its left end not abutting left chain line 152.

[0110] 18(b) is provided to the left of the central chain line 150, with its left end abutting the left chain line 152 and its right end not abutting the right chain line 151. Recess 141 of second control unit connection part 20b shown in FIG. 18(d), to which lower body control unit 126 is attached, is also provided to the left of the central chain line 150, with its left end abutting the left chain line 152 and its right end not abutting the right chain line 151.

[0111] In this way, the set of upper body control unit 128 and its control unit connector 20 and the set of lower body control unit 128 and its control unit connector 20 are provided with different installation positions of the convex and concave portions on the left or right. This prevents the upper body control unit 124 from being fitted into the second control unit connector 20b, and the lower body control unit 126 from being fitted into the first control unit connector 20a, thereby preventing mix-ups. The upper body set, consisting of the upper body control unit 124 and the first control unit connector 20a, is colored the same color, while the lower body set, consisting of the lower body control unit 126 and the second control unit connector 20b, is colored the same but different from the upper body set. For example, the upper body set is colored black, and the lower body set is colored gray. In this way, the upper and lower halves are differentiated by color, and the sets are painted the same color to prevent mix-ups.

[0112] FIG. 19 shows a structure for preventing incorrect installation in the second embodiment. The figure is a plan view of upper body control unit 124, first control unit connection part 20a, lower body control unit 126, and second control unit connection part 20b, viewed from above. As shown in the figure, the upper body control unit 124, first control unit connection part 20a, lower body control unit 126, and second control unit connection part 20b are not square in plan view, but rather have a shape closer to a trapezoid. Each of these has an asymmetrical shape, with the top and bottom edges not parallel, and the left edge shorter than the right edge. This allows the user to memorize the shapes of both the upper and lower body controls, with the left and right edges being different lengths (the right edge being shorter than the left edge when viewed from the user during installation), and prevents the user from accidentally installing the controls upside down on control unit connection part 20. Furthermore, by standardizing the shapes of upper body control unit 124 and lower body control unit 126 to be the same rather than inverting them left to right, the shorter sides of both the upper body and lower body units are the same, preventing confusion and attempting to attach them to control unit connector 20 upside down. Note that control unit 128 and control unit connector 20 in modified examples may have a shape other than a trapezoid, such as a semicircle, or another asymmetric shape. To prevent them from being installed upside down, the upper body and lower body units only need to be standardized to have roughly symmetrical shapes. Furthermore, to further prevent confusion between the upper body and lower body units, the upper body and lower body units may be distinguished from each other by providing a protrusion or notch so that only a portion of the outer shape of the upper body and lower body units is different. In this case, a protrusion or notch may be provided on only one of the upper and lower body covers, or a protrusion may be provided on one of the upper and lower body covers and a notch on the other. Alternatively, the positions of the protrusion or notch may be different between the upper and lower body covers so that they can be distinguished from each other.

[0113] By standardizing the basic external shape between the upper body and lower body, upper body control unit 124 and lower body control unit 126 can share the main body portion excluding the base portion having convex fastener 142. Similarly, first control unit connection portion 20a and second control unit connection portion 20b can share the portion excluding concave fastener 140. By standardizing parts in this way, it is possible to suppress increases in costs.

[0114] In the drawings, an example is shown in which upper body control unit 124 and first control unit connection portion 20a are entirely colored black, and lower body control unit 126 and second control unit connection portion 20b are entirely colored gray. In a modified example, for example, only the base portions of upper body control unit 124 and lower body control unit 126 may be colored black or gray. Also, for example, only the recessed fasteners 140 of first control unit connection portion 20a and second control unit connection portion 20b may be colored black or gray.

[0115] (Example of configuration and arrangement of electrodes and control unit) The following describes examples of the electrode and control unit configurations and their arrangements described in the first embodiment. The upper-body garment portion 120 shown in FIG. 5 has five pairs of yin and yang electrodes. Assuming that current flows between these electrode pairs, the voltage value applied to each electrode pair is set to determine the intensity of the individual electrical stimulation. If multiple electrode pairs are all connected to a common ground, a closed circuit may be formed between electrodes other than those intended to be voltage-applied via the human body. Therefore, if a large potential difference occurs between one electrode pair and another, leakage current may flow through unintended internal pathways. Therefore, a separate ground is used to prevent the formation of a closed circuit between electrodes other than those intended as pairs, especially between electrodes where leakage current should be prevented. To achieve this, one of the following four example unit configurations is adopted for the electrode configuration and its arrangement. As a premise, the electrode group around the waist (first electrode section 30a, second electrode section 30b, third electrode section 30c, fourth electrode section 30d, fifth electrode section 30e, sixth electrode section 30f) is referred to as the "first electrode group," and the electrode group around the arms (seventh electrode section 30g, eighth electrode section 30h, ninth electrode section 30i, tenth electrode section 30j) is referred to as the "second electrode group" to distinguish between them. Furthermore, the configuration is such that leakage current between the first electrode group and the second electrode group is avoided. The control unit may have the structure shown in FIG. 8 of the first embodiment, or the structures shown in FIGS. 16 to 19 of the second embodiment.

[0116] (1) First Example 20 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of an upper-body garment portion and an upper-body control unit in a first example. In the first example, the first electrode group and the second electrode group are controlled by the same upper-body control unit (first upper-body control unit 124a), but separate grounds are provided within first upper-body control unit 124a as their respective reference voltages, providing internal insulation between them. However, if an integrated control unit is configured in which separate grounds are provided within a single first upper-body control unit 124a to provide mutual insulation, the size of first upper-body control unit 124a can be approximately twice the size of upper-body control unit 124 shown in FIG. 4 or the control units in other configuration examples described below.

[0117] 21 shows a schematic diagram of the arrangement of electrodes in the upper-body garment portion of the first example. In the figure, the electrodes indicated by solid lines are arranged on the lining of the front side of the upper-body garment portion 120, and the electrodes indicated by dashed lines are arranged on the lining of the back side of the upper-body garment portion 120. The first electrode group 330 consists of the first electrode portion 30a, the second electrode portion 30b, the third electrode portion 30c, and the fifth electrode portion 30e arranged on the front side of the waist, and the fourth electrode portion 30d and the sixth electrode portion 30f arranged on the back side. The second electrode group 332 consists of the seventh electrode portion 30g and the ninth electrode portion 30i arranged on the front side of the arm, and the eighth electrode portion 30h and the tenth electrode portion 30j arranged on the back side.

[0118] Here, because the rectus abdominis and oblique abdominal muscles are particularly close to each other around the torso, unintended adjacent electrodes are arranged to have the same polarity to prevent the formation of a current path between unintended adjacent electrodes. First, the first electrode 30a and the second electrode 30b arranged on the rectus abdominis are arranged such that one electrode is an anode and the other is a cathode. For example, the first electrode 30a is arranged as a cathode, and the second electrode 30b is arranged as an anode. The third electrode 30c adjacent to the first electrode 30a, which is a cathode, is also an anode, like the first electrode 30a, and the sixth electrode 30f paired with the third electrode 30c is also an anode. The fifth electrode 30e adjacent to the second electrode 30b, which is an anode, is also an anode, like the second electrode 30b, and the fourth electrode 30d paired with the fifth electrode 30e is also an anode.

[0119] Regarding the size of each electrode, the first electrode portion 30a and the second electrode portion 30b for the rectus abdominis muscles may have larger vertical and horizontal widths than the other electrodes. The first electrode portion 30a and the second electrode portion 30b may also be configured in different sizes for men and women, with the men's electrode being larger than the women's. Furthermore, the rectus abdominis muscles generally have a greater degree of prominence than the oblique abdominal muscles, and electrodes for the oblique abdominal muscles may contact the muscles less firmly than electrodes for the rectus abdominis muscles. Therefore, the thickness of the pad members for the third electrode portion 30c, the fourth electrode portion 30d, the fifth electrode portion 30e, and the sixth electrode portion 30f for the oblique abdominal muscles may be thicker than the thickness of the pad members for the first electrode portion 30a and the second electrode portion 30b for the rectus abdominis muscles. For example, the thickness of the pad members for the electrodes for the oblique abdominal muscles may be approximately twice the thickness of the pad members for the electrodes for the rectus abdominis muscles, or may be the thickness of two pad members stacked on top of each other. Similarly, the thickness of the pad members of the seventh electrode unit 30g, eighth electrode unit 30h, ninth electrode unit 30i, and tenth electrode unit 30j for both arms is made thicker than the thickness of the pad members of the first electrode unit 30a and second electrode unit 30b for the rectus abdominis muscles. For example, the thickness of the pad members of the electrodes for both arms may be approximately twice the thickness of the pad members of the electrodes for the rectus abdominis muscles, or may be the thickness of two pad members stacked on top of each other for the electrodes for the rectus abdominis muscles. The thickness of the pad members of the 19th electrode portion 30s, 20th electrode portion 30t, 21st electrode portion 30u, and 22nd electrode portion 30v, which are electrodes for the buttocks shown in FIG. 6, may be approximately twice the thickness of the pad members of other electrodes, such as the 11th electrode portion 30k, 12th electrode portion 30l, 13th electrode portion 30m, 14th electrode portion 30n, 15th electrode portion 30o, 16th electrode portion 30p, 17th electrode portion 30q, and 18th electrode portion 30r, or may be the thickness of two of these pad members stacked on top of each other.

[0120] 22 shows a schematic diagram of a first example of the control unit and electrode configuration. First upper body control unit 124a is integrally configured to include first control circuit 340, which controls the voltage applied to first electrode 30a and second electrode 30b, which are disposed on the rectus abdominis muscles; second control circuit 342, which controls the voltage applied to third electrode 30c, fourth electrode 30d, fifth electrode 30e, and sixth electrode 30f, which are disposed on the oblique abdominal muscles; third control circuit 344, which controls the voltage applied to seventh electrode 30g, eighth electrode 30h, ninth electrode 30i, and tenth electrode 30j, which are disposed on both arms; and first ground 350 and second ground 352. The first electrode unit 30a and the second electrode unit 30b, which are arranged on the rectus abdominis muscles, and the third electrode unit 30c, the fourth electrode unit 30d, the fifth electrode unit 30e, and the sixth electrode unit 30f, which are arranged on the oblique abdominal muscles, are included in the first electrode group 330. The seventh electrode unit 30g, the eighth electrode unit 30h, the ninth electrode unit 30i, and the tenth electrode unit 30j, which are arranged on both arms, are included in the second electrode group 332. The first control circuit 340 and the second control circuit 342, which control the voltages applied to the electrodes included in the first electrode group 330, are connected to the first ground 350. The third control circuit 344, which controls the voltages applied to the electrodes included in the second electrode group 332, is connected to the second ground 352. The system of first control circuit 340, second control circuit 342, and first ground 350 and the system of third control circuit 344 and second ground 352 are arranged separately within the housing of one first upper body control unit 124a and are electrically insulated from each other. In this way, by connecting first electrode group 330 and second electrode group 332 to separate grounds rather than connecting them to a common ground, it is possible to prevent leakage current from occurring due to the formation of a closed circuit between unintended electrodes, i.e., between any electrode included in first electrode group 330 and any electrode included in second electrode group 332.

[0121] (2) Second Example FIG. 23 shows a schematic view of the upper-body garment portion and upper-body control unit in the second example. In the second example, the control units are separated into the first electrode group and the second electrode group, and a ground is installed within each control unit as a reference voltage. Specifically, the control unit that controls the voltage applied to each electrode is separated into a second upper-body control unit 124b for controlling the first electrode group and a third upper-body control unit 124c for controlling the second electrode group. The second upper-body control unit 124b is installed on the right flank, similar to the upper-body control unit 124 in FIG. 4 and the first upper-body control unit 124a in FIG. 20, while the third upper-body control unit 124c is installed on the front side of the right arm. The third upper-body control unit 124c is preferably shaped and sized so as not to get in the way when worn around the arm, and is configured, for example, to be smaller than the second upper-body control unit 124b. Second upper body control unit 124b is a control unit of the same size as upper body control unit 124 shown in Fig. 4. The configuration and arrangement of the electrodes are the same as the configuration and arrangement of the electrodes shown in Fig. 21 of the first example.

[0122] 24 shows a schematic diagram of a second example of the control unit and electrode configuration. Second upper body control unit 124b includes first control circuit 340, which controls the voltage applied to first electrode 30a and second electrode 30b, which are located on the rectus abdominis muscles; second control circuit 342, which controls the voltage applied to third electrode 30c, fourth electrode 30d, fifth electrode 30e, and sixth electrode 30f, which are located on the oblique abdominal muscles; and first ground 350. Third upper body control unit 124c includes third control circuit 344, which controls the voltage applied to seventh electrode 30g, eighth electrode 30h, ninth electrode 30i, and tenth electrode 30j, which are located on both arms; and second ground 352. The first electrode unit 30a and the second electrode unit 30b, which are arranged on the rectus abdominis muscles, and the third electrode unit 30c, the fourth electrode unit 30d, the fifth electrode unit 30e, and the sixth electrode unit 30f, which are arranged on the oblique abdominal muscles, are included in the first electrode group 330. The seventh electrode unit 30g, the eighth electrode unit 30h, the ninth electrode unit 30i, and the tenth electrode unit 30j, which are arranged on both arms, are included in the second electrode group 332. The first control circuit 340 and the second control circuit 342, which control the voltages applied to the electrodes included in the first electrode group 330, are connected to a first ground 350. The third control circuit 344, which controls the voltages applied to the electrodes included in the second electrode group 332, is connected to a second ground 352. The system of the first control circuit 340, the second control circuit 342, and the first ground 350 and the system of the third control circuit 344 and the second ground 352 are each arranged in separate control units and are electrically insulated from each other. In this way, by connecting the first electrode group 330 and the second electrode group 332 to separate, distinct grounds rather than to a common ground, it is possible to prevent leakage current from occurring due to the formation of a closed circuit between unintended electrodes, i.e., between any of the electrodes included in the first electrode group 330 and any of the electrodes included in the second electrode group 332.

[0123] (3) Third Example FIG. 25 shows a schematic view of the upper-body garment portion and upper-body control unit in the third example. In the third example, similar to the second example, the control units are separated into a fourth upper-body control unit 124d for controlling the first electrode group and a fifth upper-body control unit 124e for controlling the second electrode group. The fourth upper-body control unit 124d is installed on the right flank, similar to the second upper-body control unit 124b in FIG. 23. The fifth upper-body control unit 124e is installed on the front side of the right arm, similar to the third upper-body control unit 124c in FIG. 23. However, the fourth upper-body control unit 124d and the fifth upper-body control unit 124e share the same components, reducing manufacturing costs. The configuration and arrangement of the electrodes in the third example are the same as those in the first example shown in FIG.

[0124] The configuration of the control unit and electrodes in the third example is similar to that of the second example shown in Fig. 24. That is, fourth upper body control unit 124d includes first control circuit 340 that controls the voltage applied to first electrode 30a and second electrode 30b arranged on the rectus abdominis muscles, second control circuit 342 that controls the voltage applied to third electrode 30c, fourth electrode 30d, fifth electrode 30e, and sixth electrode 30f arranged on the oblique abdominal muscles, and first ground 350. Fifth upper body control unit 124e includes third control circuit 344 that controls the voltage applied to seventh electrode 30g, eighth electrode 30h, ninth electrode 30i, and tenth electrode 30j arranged on both arms, and second ground 352. The system of first control circuit 340, second control circuit 342, and first ground 350 and the system of third control circuit 344 and second ground 352 are each arranged in separate control units and are electrically insulated from each other. In this way, also in the third example, by connecting first electrode group 330 and second electrode group 332 to separate grounds rather than connecting them to a common ground, it is possible to prevent leakage current from occurring due to the formation of a closed circuit between unintended electrodes, i.e., between any electrode included in first electrode group 330 and any electrode included in second electrode group 332.

[0125] (4) Fourth Example FIG. 26 shows a schematic diagram of the size and arrangement of electrodes on an upper-body garment part in the fourth example. The function that allows the user to freely set the intensity of electrical stimulation for each electrode pair is omitted, and the voltage is controlled within a limited range so as to prevent potential differences that could cause unintended leakage current between the electrodes. Here, when the voltage and current applied between the electrodes are constant, the perceived intensity of the electrical stimulation increases as the distance between the paired electrodes increases, until a predetermined critical value is reached. Furthermore, the larger the size of the paired electrodes, the greater the perceived intensity of the electrical stimulation. Taking advantage of this characteristic, in the fourth example, the voltage value applied between at least some of the electrodes is reduced compared to the other configuration examples, but the distance and size of the electrodes are adjusted so that the perceived intensity is greater than in the other configuration examples. This allows the perceived intensity to be maintained while reducing the applied voltage. The electrodes in FIG. 26 are positioned in substantially the same positions as the electrodes shown in FIG. 21 of the first example. However, because the electrodes are narrower and have a smaller area than the electrodes in FIG. 21, the intensity of the sensation is adjusted to be relatively smaller. On the other hand, because the distance between the paired electrodes is wider than the distance between the paired electrodes in FIG. 21, the intensity of the sensation is adjusted to be relatively larger. The maximum value of the applied voltage is limited to a value smaller than the maximum value in the first example. While FIG. 26 shows an example in which the distance and size between the paired electrodes are all adjusted, some paired electrodes may be configured to have the same distance and size as the corresponding electrodes in FIG. 21 as a modified example. In the fourth example, the control unit is not separated into the first and second electrode groups, but is configured as an integrated control unit as in FIG. 4. Furthermore, the ground is not separated, and each electrode is connected to a single ground. However, in the modified example, the ground may be separated and connected within the control unit as in the first example, or the control unit may be configured as a separate unit as in the second and third examples.

[0126] In this way, a balance is struck between limiting the voltage range between each electrode and adjusting the electrode distance and size so that the perceived intensity does not decrease. This configuration prevents potential differences that could cause unintended leakage current between the electrodes. The optimal combination of the applied voltage range between each electrode, electrode distance, and electrode size is determined by experimenting with various combinations in which each element is swapped.

[0127] In the first to fourth examples, the timing of energizing the first electrode group 330 and the timing of energizing the second electrode group 332 may be separated into separate timings to operate them mutually exclusively and prevent the energizing timings from overlapping. This may prevent the occurrence of a large potential difference that would form a leakage current path between unintended electrodes.

[0128] As a modified example, the electrode configuration and arrangement may be as shown in FIG. 15 . That is, the electrodes and their arrangement may be configured so that two electrodes are arranged vertically on each of the left and right rectus abdominis muscles to apply electrical stimulation in the vertical direction. In this case, the electrodes for the rectus abdominis muscles are included in the first electrode group 330, as in the first to fourth examples. On the other hand, the electrodes and their arrangement may also be configured so that two electrodes are arranged horizontally on each of the left and right pectoralis major muscles to apply electrical stimulation horizontally. In this case, the electrodes for the pectoralis major muscles may be configured to be included in the second electrode group 332, as in the first to fourth examples. Alternatively, the electrodes may be configured to be included in an electrode group separate from the first electrode group 330 and the second electrode group 332, and connected to a ground separate from the first electrode group 330 and the second electrode group 332. In this case, leakage current between the first electrode group 330 and the second electrode group 332 can also be avoided.

[0129] (Third embodiment) This embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that a waterproof sheet is placed near the electrodes of the lower-body garment portion to prevent moisture from seeping into nearby garment portions when the electrodes are hydrated. The following description will focus on the differences with the first and second embodiments, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0130] FIG. 27 shows a schematic diagram of the electrode arrangement and wiring in a lower-body garment part of the third embodiment. FIG. 27(a) shows the front side of the lower-body garment part 122, and FIG. 27(b) shows the back side of the lower-body garment part 122. The lower-body garment part 122 has electrodes arranged on the back surface of the fabric, and at least a portion of the fabric has a multi-layer structure in which an outer fabric and an inner fabric are overlapped, with an electrical cable routed between the outer fabric and the inner fabric. The electrical cable is water-resistant and stretchable. The arrangement and wiring of the electrodes, electrical cable, etc. are not actually visible from the outside, so they are illustrated with dashed lines. A waterproof sheet is sandwiched between the outer fabric and the inner fabric on a portion of the back side of the lower-body garment part 122. The waterproof sheet will be described later.

[0131] The electrodes on the back surface of the lower-body garment portion 122 are located at multiple locations corresponding to target body parts to which electrical stimulation should be applied, such as the user's legs, buttocks, and other body parts. The multiple electrodes are electrically connected to the second control unit connector 20b via individual electrical cables 36. The second control unit connector 20b is located at a position corresponding to the lower-body control unit 126 in FIG. 4, and when the lower-body control unit 126 is attached to the second control unit connector 20b, the second control unit connector 20b and the lower-body control unit 126 are electrically connected. The multiple electrical cables 36 connected to each electrode are stretchable and are fixed in position by being entangled with cable fastening tape 49 sewn into the lower-body garment portion 122 just before each electrode. This prevents the electrical cables 36 from coming off the electrodes even if the electrical cables 36 are pulled in response to the expansion and contraction of the lower-body garment portion 122.

[0132] The lower-body garment part 122 of this embodiment differs from the lower-body garment part 122 of the first and second embodiments in that it does not have electrodes on the front left and right front thighs or the back left and right back thighs, but has electrodes only on the back side at locations corresponding to the left and right gluteal muscles. However, in a modified example, electrodes may also be provided on the front left and right front thighs and the back left and right back thighs, as in the lower-body garment part 122 of the first and second embodiments.

[0133] A pair of yin-yang electrodes, spanning the right gluteus maximus and gluteus medius, is provided at the location of the right buttock. The first electrode 30w is located near the upper outer gluteus medius, and the second electrode 30x is located near the lower inner gluteus maximus. A voltage is applied between these electrodes from the lower body control unit 126 via the 19th and 20th electrical cables 36s and 36t, respectively, to electrically stimulate the right gluteus maximus and gluteus medius. The 19th electrical cable 36s runs from the 23rd electrode 30w on the right buttock through the center of the upper buttock to the 25th electrode 30y on the left buttock, thereby electrically connecting to the second control unit connector 20b via the 25th electrode 30y. A 19th cable fastening tape 49s is sewn in front of the 23rd electrode 30w, and the 19th electrical cable 36s is entangled with the 19th cable fastening tape 49s to secure it in place. The 20th electric cable 36t runs from the 24th electrode portion 30x on the right buttock, passes through the center of the upper buttock, and is connected to the 26th electrode portion 30z on the left buttock, thereby being electrically connected to the second control unit connector 20b via the 26th electrode portion 30z. A 20th cable fastening tape 49t is sewn in front of the 24th electrode portion 30x, and the 20th electric cable 36t is entangled with the 20th cable fastening tape 49t to fix its position.

[0134] A 25th electrode 30y is provided near the upper outer gluteus medius and a 26th electrode 30z is provided near the lower inner gluteus medius as a pair of yin and yang electrodes that vertically straddle the left gluteus maximus and gluteus medius at a location corresponding to the left buttock, and these electrodes are electrically stimulated by applying a voltage between these electrodes from lower body control unit 126 via 21st electric cable 36u and 22nd electric cable 36v, respectively. A 21st cable fastening tape 49u is sewn in front of 25th electrode 30y, and 21st electric cable 36u and 19th electric cable 36s, which connect 25th electrode 30y on the left gluteus medius to second control unit connector 20b above the left front thigh, are entangled in 21st cable fastening tape 49u to fix them in place. A 22nd cable fastening tape 49v is sewn in front of the 26th electrode portion 30z, and the 22nd electrical cable 36v and the 20th electrical cable 36t, which connect the 26th electrode portion 30z of the left gluteus maximus to the second control unit connection portion 20b above the left front thigh, are entangled in the 22nd cable fastening tape 49v and fixed in position.

[0135] A cable fastening tape 59c for fastening the 19th electric cable 36s connecting the 23rd electrode portion 30w and the 25th electrode portion 30y and the 20th electric cable 36t connecting the 24th electrode portion 30x and the 26th electrode portion 30z is sewn to the fabric of the lower-body clothing portion 122 near the center of the upper buttocks, and the two electric cables 36 are bundled together and fixed near the center of the upper buttocks by the cable fastening tape 59c.

[0136] Note that the 23rd electrode section 30w, the 24th electrode section 30x, the 25th electrode section 30y, and the 26th electrode section 30z each have larger vertical and horizontal sides and larger areas than the corresponding 19th electrode section 30s, the 20th electrode section 30t, the 21st electrode section 30u, and the 22nd electrode section 30v in the first embodiment. This is because the conductive polymer fabric 31 around the padding member 32 is provided with a wide margin, and the size of the padding member 32 included in the electrode section 30 is similar to that of the padding member 32 in the first embodiment. However, in a modified example, electrodes of similar sizes to the 19th electrode section 30s, the 20th electrode section 30t, the 21st electrode section 30u, and the 22nd electrode section 30v in the first embodiment may be used instead of the 23rd electrode section 30w, the 24th electrode section 30x, the 25th electrode section 30y, and the 26th electrode section 30z.

[0137] The above-described arrangement and wiring allows the electrical cable to be routed without being exposed to the outside. Furthermore, because the components other than the lower body control unit 126 are water resistant, the fitness wear 102 can be washed simply by removing the lower body control unit 126, without removing the electrode section 30 or the electrical cable 36. Note that the figure shows an example in which electrodes are arranged mainly for men in the lower body clothing section 122, but the arrangement and size of the electrodes may be different for women.

[0138] Figure 28 shows a schematic diagram of the arrangement of electrodes and a waterproof sheet in a lower-body garment part of the third embodiment. This figure shows the lower-body garment part 122 as seen from the back. The fabric of the lower-body garment part 122 has a multi-layer structure in which an outer fabric 34 and an inner fabric 35 are layered, as shown in Figure 7 and other figures. A waterproof sheet 250 is sandwiched in the space between the outer fabric 34 and the inner fabric 35. In this figure, the waterproof sheet 250 is positioned in a position that cannot be directly seen from the outside of the lower-body garment part 122, and therefore is indicated by a dashed line.

[0139] The waterproof sheet 250 is composed of an upper waterproof section 252 and a lower non-waterproof section 254, separated by a boundary line 262. The boundary line 262 is a horizontal line set on the back side of the lower-body garment section 122 below the area corresponding to the wearer's gluteal muscles, i.e., above the area corresponding to the back of the thighs. The waterproof section 252 has an area and shape that primarily corresponds to the buttocks and the upper back of the thighs. The non-waterproof section 254 has an area and shape that primarily corresponds to the back of the thighs and is composed of two regions 242a, 242b that correspond to the two legs. As described above, the overall shape of the waterproof sheet 250 has a shape and area that are slightly smaller than the surface shape on the back side of the lower-body garment section 122. In modified examples, the boundary line 262 may be set higher, for example, near the crotch, or lower, for example, near the mid-back of the thighs.

[0140] The entire waterstop sheet 250 is made of a stretchable fabric containing elastic polyurethane synthetic fibers such as spandex, and the upper waterstop portion 252 is formed by welding a thin sheet- or film-like waterstop layer made of polyurethane resin to the surface of the stretchable fabric. The remaining portion of the waterstop sheet 250 excluding the waterstop portion 252, i.e., the portion below the boundary line 262, is the non-waterstop portion 254 formed solely of the stretchable fabric. The waterstop layer may be a film- or sheet-like layer made of a synthetic resin other than polyurethane, such as silicone resin, polyamide synthetic resin, polyvinyl chloride, or polytetrafluoroethylene. Alternatively, the waterstop layer may be a layer of highly water-absorbent resin such as a high-molecular-weight absorbent polymer, which absorbs moisture from the electrode unit 30, blocking water and preventing it from seeping out of the garment.

[0141] The upper end 256 of the waterstop sheet 250 or waterstop portion 252 is the upper edge that runs along the wearer's waist. The upper end 256 is sewn to the lower-body garment portion 122 along the waist of the lower-body garment portion 122. Meanwhile, the left and right side edges 260 of the waterstop sheet 250 or waterstop portion 252 are not sewn to the lower-body garment portion 122. Furthermore, the lower end of the waterstop portion 252 along the boundary line 262 is also not sewn directly to the lower-body garment portion 122. Therefore, the waterstop portion 252 is suspended from its upper end 256. Because the waterstop portion 252 is not secured to the lower-body garment portion 122 on all four sides, but only the upper end 256, it does not restrict the lower-body garment portion 122 from expanding or contracting when the wearer is exercising or sitting in a chair. However, in a modified example, the left and right side portions 260 of the waterstop sheet 250 may be partially fastened to the sides of the lower-body garment portion 122 via a predetermined fastening member. The fastening member may be, for example, a string-like or strip-like stretch fabric made of synthetic fiber. The waterstop portion 252 may be composed not only of a single waterstop layer, but also of a combination of multiple waterstop layers divided into multiple regions. The waterstop sheet 250 may also be configured without the non-waterstop portion 254, i.e., composed solely of the waterstop portion 252. In this case, the waterstop portion 252 may be composed solely of a waterstop layer, or only the upper end portion 256 of the waterstop sheet 250 may be sewn to the lower-body garment portion 122, with the left and right side portions 260 and the lower end portion hanging down without being sewn to the upper-body garment portion 120.

[0142] The non-waterstop portion 254 does not have a waterstop layer welded to it; it is composed only of a stretchable fabric layer and is more stretchable than the waterproof portion 252. The bottom end 258 of the waterproof sheet 250 or non-waterstop portion 254 is sewn to the lower-body garment portion 122 along the hem of the lower-body garment portion 122. When the entire lower-body garment portion 122 is unfolded, the bottom end 258 of the waterproof sheet 250 connected to the hem is pulled downward, causing the non-waterstop portion 254 to be stretched downward. As the non-waterstop portion 254 is stretched downward, and because the left and right sides are not sewn together, the width between the boundary line 262 and the bottom end 258 is narrower than the width of the boundary line 262 or the bottom end 258, as shown in the figure. On the other hand, even when the lower-body garment portion 122 is pulled downward, the vertical width of the waterproof portion 252 is barely stretched, and the horizontal width of the waterproof portion 252 does not narrow either.

[0143] In a modified example, the lower end 258 of the non-waterproof portion 254 may be fastened via a predetermined fastening member to the hem of the lower-body garment portion 122 or to a location corresponding to the area near the back of the knee or the back of the thigh. The fastening member may be, for example, multiple string- or band-like stretchable fabric pieces made of synthetic fiber, or multiple strips of stretchable fabric arranged in the shape of strips.

[0144] In Figure 28, a vertical dashed line AA is drawn from the right buttock to the back of the thigh, and the cross section along this line AA will be explained in the following figures.

[0145] Figure 29 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of the lower-body garment part taken along line AA in Figure 28. The fabric of the lower-body garment part 122 has a multi-layer structure in which an outer fabric 34 and an inner fabric 35 are layered on top of each other, with a water-stop sheet 250 sandwiched in the space between the outer fabric 34 and the inner fabric 35. In this figure, for the sake of convenience in explaining the water-stop sheet 250, the outer fabric 34 and the inner fabric 35 are depicted as being largely separated, but in reality, the water-stop sheet 250 is sandwiched between the outer fabric 34 and the inner fabric 35 with almost no gap between them.

[0146] The waterproof sheet 250 is divided into an upper waterproof portion 252 and a lower non-waterproof portion 254. That is, the region of the waterproof sheet 250 from the upper end 256 to the boundary line 262 is the waterproof portion 252, and the region of the waterproof sheet 250 from the boundary line 262 to the lower end 258 is the non-waterproof portion 254. As shown in the partially enlarged view at the top, the waterproof portion 252 has a multi-layer structure in which the waterproof layer 264 is welded to the outside of the stretchable fabric layer 266. On the other hand, the non-waterproof portion 254 is formed of a single layer of the stretchable fabric layer 266, as shown in the partially enlarged view at the bottom.

[0147] The waterproof portion 252 is provided in a position and with an area that can cover the joint between the electrode portion 30 corresponding to the gluteus medius, such as the 23rd electrode portion 30w corresponding to the gluteus medius, and the 24th electrode portion 30x corresponding to the gluteus maximus, and the lining 35 of the lower-body garment portion 122. An electric cable 36 is also wired at the joint between the electrode portion 30 and the lining 35, and the contact points of the electric cable 36 and the electrode portion 30 are also covered by the waterproof portion 252.

[0148] The waterstop sheet 250 is positioned between the outer fabric 34 and the inner fabric 35, so that it is not visible from the outside of the lower-body garment portion 122. This allows the lower-body garment portion 122 to have waterstop or waterproof functionality without compromising its aesthetic appearance. Furthermore, rather than configuring the entire waterstop sheet 250 as the waterstop portion 252, the waterstop portion 252 is provided only to an extent necessary and sufficient to cover the electrode portion 30 corresponding to the buttocks, with only the remaining non-waterstop portion 254 being configured as a highly stretchable fabric layer. This ensures that the waterstop sheet 250 as a whole has sufficient stretchability, even when the waterstop portion 252 has relatively low stretchability, and does not impede the extension of the lower-body garment portion 122 when the wearer is sitting in a chair or sofa.

[0149] (Fourth embodiment) This embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that a water-stopping layer is provided only in an area that can cover the electrode portions of the lower-body garment portion, and the water-stopping layer is provided between the garment portion and the electrode portions, thereby preventing moisture from penetrating into the garment portion itself when the electrodes are wet. The following will focus on the differences from the third embodiment, and will omit a description of the commonalities.

[0150] Here, it is assumed that before donning the fitness wear, water is sprayed onto the electrodes using a sprayer to lightly moisten them. This is to ensure a more stable electrical connection between the electrodes even at the start of exercise when the wearer is not yet sweating. In this embodiment, instead of limiting the area where the water-stopping layer is provided to a limited area that can at least cover the electrode portion of the lower-body garment, a spraying aid is used to prevent water from reaching the garment portion around the electrode portion, i.e., the area where the water-stopping layer is not provided. By using the spraying aid described below, the electrodes can be moistened while preventing water from reaching the garment portion around the electrodes. Furthermore, by reducing the possibility of water reaching the garment portion around the electrodes, the area where the water-stopping layer is provided can be limited to the minimum area that can cover the electrode portion, thereby maintaining the stretchability of the garment portion.

[0151] FIG. 30 schematically illustrates a sprayer and a first spraying aid for spraying water. Sprayer 270 is a spray container for spraying water onto electrode unit 30 and includes container 270a for storing water to be sprayed and cap 270b with a nozzle and pump. Spraying aid 272 is a pyramidal tubular device for limiting the area of ​​spraying water by sprayer 270 to the area of ​​electrode unit 30. At both ends of the pyramidal tubular portion of spraying aid 272, narrow opening 272a with a relatively narrow opening area and wide opening 272b with a relatively wide opening area are formed. Narrow opening 272a has a ring-shaped extension piece 272c. The tip of container 270a is passed through the ring-shaped opening of extension piece 272c, and cap 270b is attached to the tip of container 270a by sandwiching extension piece 272c. This allows spraying aid 272 to be attached to sprayer 270 and integrated.

[0152] Figure 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the lower-body garment part of the fourth embodiment taken along line AA in Figure 28. This figure shows the positional relationship between the water-stopping layer and the garment part, as well as a cross-section of the sprayer and first spraying aid that spray water onto the electrode part. For ease of explanation, this figure also shows the outer fabric 34 and the lining 35 as if they are largely separated, but in reality, the outer fabric 34 and the lining 35 are overlapped with almost no gap between them.

[0153] The fabric of the lower-body garment portion 122 has a multi-layer structure in which an outer fabric 34 and a lining 35 are layered on top of each other, and a waterproofing layer 264 is welded to the inner surface of the lining 35, i.e., the surface that may come into contact with the wearer's skin, at least in the area where the electrode unit 30 is provided. As shown in the partially enlarged view, the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30 is further sewn onto the surface of the lining 35 to which the water-stopping layer 264 is welded, so that the water-stopping layer 264 is sandwiched between the lining 35 and the electrode unit 30.

[0154] The size of the water-stopping layer 264 is large enough to cover the back surface of the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30, i.e., the surface of the electrode unit 30 that is bonded to the lining 35. For example, the area may be slightly larger than the back surface of the electrode unit 30 or approximately the same as the back surface of the electrode unit 30. In a modified example, the water-stopping layer 264 may be formed with an area significantly larger than the back surface of the electrode unit 30, or may be formed with a size large enough to cover multiple electrode units 30 with a single, integrated water-stopping layer 264. However, the larger the water-stopping layer 264, the more reliable the water-stopping effect, but the greater the possibility of sacrificing the stretchability of the lining 35. In this embodiment, the size of the water-stopping layer 264 is limited to the area of ​​the electrode unit 30, ensuring high stretchability of the lining 35. At the same time, the spray area of ​​the water-spraying auxiliary is reliably limited to the area of ​​the electrode unit 30, preventing water from splashing around the electrode unit 30 and wetting the lining 35.

[0155] The water stopping layer 264 of this embodiment is different from the water stopping layer 264 of the third embodiment, which prevents water from penetrating from the lining 35 to the outer fabric 34, in that it can prevent water from penetrating from the conductive polymer fabric 31 to the lining 35. As a modified example, the water stopping layer 264 may be formed on the surface of the lining 35 facing the outer fabric 34, rather than on the surface facing the electrode unit 30. In this case, water cannot be prevented from penetrating from the water stopping layer 264 to the lining 35, but water can be prevented from penetrating from the lining 35 to the outer fabric 34.

[0156] The wide opening 272b of the spraying aid 272 is slightly larger than the area of ​​the pad member 32 of the electrode unit 30 but smaller than the overall area of ​​the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30. With the wide opening 272b of the spraying aid 272 in contact with the periphery of the pad member 32 of the electrode unit 30, i.e., with the wide opening 272b facing within the conductive polymer fabric 31, the nozzle of the sprayer 270 is directed from the narrow opening 272a through the inside of the spraying aid 272 toward the wide opening 272b to spray water. This allows the area sprayed by the sprayer 270 to be limited to the area of ​​the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30, preventing water from being sprayed onto and wetting parts of the garment other than the electrode unit 30. Furthermore, because the area sprayed by the sprayer 270 can be limited to the area of ​​the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30, the size of the water-stopping layer 264 can be made approximately the same size as the back surface of the electrode unit 30, ensuring high stretchability of the lining 35.

[0157] (Fifth embodiment) In this embodiment, the shape and structure of the spraying accessory differ from those of the fourth embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences with the fourth embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0158] FIG. 32 schematically illustrates a sprayer and a second spraying aid that spray water. The sprayer 270 is a spray container that sprays water onto the electrode unit 30. The spraying aid 274 is a member that masks areas other than the electrode unit 30 to limit the area sprayed by the sprayer 270 to the electrode unit 30. The spraying aid 274 has a flat plate portion 274a with an area larger than the electrode unit 30, and an opening 274b that is slightly larger than the pad member 32 of the electrode unit 30 is provided in the center of the flat plate portion 274a. The opening 274b extends downward in the shape of a short rectangular tube from the flat plate portion 274a. By spraying water toward the opening 274b from the sprayer 270, the electrode unit 30 below the spraying aid 274 can be moistened. Meanwhile, the flat plate portion 274a widely masks the periphery of the electrode unit 30, preventing the clothing parts other than the electrode unit 30 from getting wet.

[0159] FIG. 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the lower-body garment portion of the fifth embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 28. This figure shows the relative positions of the water-stopping layer and the garment portion, as well as a cross-section of the sprayer and second spraying aid that spray water onto the electrode portion. In the fifth embodiment, the fabric of the lower-body garment portion 122 also has a multi-layer structure in which an outer fabric 34 and a lining 35 are layered. A waterproof water-stopping layer 264 is welded to the inner surface of the lining 35, i.e., the surface that comes into contact with the wearer's skin, at least in the area where the electrode portion 30 is located. As shown in the partially enlarged view, the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode portion 30 is sewn onto the surface of the lining 35 to which the water-stopping layer 264 is welded, thereby sandwiching the water-stopping layer 264 between the lining 35 and the electrode portion 30. The size of the water-blocking layer 264 is large enough to cover the back surface of the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30, i.e., the surface of the electrode unit 30 that is joined to the lining 35. The water-blocking layer 264 can prevent moisture from penetrating from the conductive polymer fabric 31 to the lining 35.

[0160] The opening 274b of the spraying aid 274 is slightly larger than the area of ​​the pad member 32 of the electrode unit 30, and the flat portion 274a is larger than the area of ​​the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30. With the opening 274b of the spraying aid 274 in contact with the periphery of the pad member 32 of the electrode unit 30, i.e., with the opening 274b facing within the range of the conductive polymer fabric 31, the nozzle of the sprayer 270 is aimed toward the opening 274b and water is sprayed. This allows the area sprayed by the sprayer 270 to be limited to the area of ​​the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30, preventing water from being sprayed onto and wetting parts of the garment other than the electrode unit 30. Furthermore, because the area sprayed by the sprayer 270 can be limited to the area of ​​the conductive polymer fabric 31 of the electrode unit 30, the size of the water-stopping layer 264 can be made approximately the same size as the back surface of the electrode unit 30, ensuring high stretchability of the lining 35. [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 30 Electrode portion, 31 Conductive polymer fabric, 32 Pad member, 34 Outer material, 35 Lining, 102 Fitness wear, 122 Lower body clothing portion, 250 Water-stop sheet, 252 Water-stop portion, 254 Non-water-stop portion, 256 Upper end portion, 258 Lower end portion, 264 Water-stop layer, 266 Stretch fabric layer, 270 Sprayer, 272 Spraying aid, 272a Narrow opening, 272b Wide opening, 274 Spraying aid, 274a Flat plate portion, 274b Opening.

Claims

1. A clothing part that can be worn on the lower body, an electrode portion, the electrode portion having a surface made of a conductive polymer fabric, which is provided inside the clothing portion at a position facing the target body part so as to be able to approach the target body part to apply electrical stimulation to the target body part; a water stop sheet having a water stop layer at least in a portion thereof, the water stop sheet being disposed in a position capable of covering the electrode portion; Equipped with At least a portion of the clothing part has a multi-layer structure in which the waterproof sheet is sandwiched between a plurality of fabrics, the electrode portion is formed on a side of the target body part in a part of the plurality of fabrics, The water stop sheet is formed so that the water stop layer covers the electrode portion from between the plurality of fabrics, The electrode unit includes a plurality of electrode units, and the plurality of electrode units are provided at positions corresponding to the left and right gluteal muscles so as to apply electrical stimulation to the left and right gluteal muscles, This electrical stimulation fitness wear is characterized in that the water-stopping layer is positioned at a position corresponding to an electrode portion capable of applying electrical stimulation to the left and right gluteal muscles, and is formed to be sized to cover the electrode portion corresponding to the left and right gluteal muscles and the surrounding area of ​​the electrode portion.

2. Further, an electric wire electrically connected to the electrode portion is provided. At least a portion of the clothing part has a multi-layer structure in which the electric wire is sandwiched between a plurality of fabrics, 2. The electrostimulation fitness wear according to claim 1, wherein the waterproof sheet is formed so that the waterproof layer covers the contact points between the electric wires and the electrode portions between the plurality of fabrics.

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