Load transmission mechanisms for training machines, and training machines that include such elements.

Abstract

Invention details;

Description

Load transmission mechanism for training equipment and training equipment using the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a load transmission mechanism for a training device and a training device using the same.

[0002] Muscle strength training is considered to be good for leading a healthy daily life, not just in sports. Muscle strength training is widely practiced by moving the body while applying a load. There are various types of training equipment used for such training. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a training equipment that moves the body while applying a load to the abdominal and lower back areas.

[0003] The training device disclosed in Patent Document 1 uses two relay rollers between a tension member such as a hanging belt extending from a weight plate (load) and an input unit such as a pressure pad pressed by the user, so that the tension of the tension member generated by the weight plate (load) is transmitted to the input unit with its direction reversed. In training using the training device disclosed in Patent Document 1, a load is applied to the reciprocating movement of the exerciser's upper body in one direction, raising and lowering it.

[0004] Strength training is said to enable the acquisition of flexible and elastic muscle strength by moving multiple muscles around the skeleton through complex movements. Training using the training device disclosed in Patent Document 1 involves monotonous, unidirectional reciprocating movements of muscles within a limited range, which can lead to the muscles being trained becoming hardened and losing flexibility and elasticity. Therefore, there has been a demand for training equipment that can simultaneously perform movements in multiple directions on the muscles being trained in strength training movements that involve muscle load.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-187724

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a load transmission mechanism for training equipment that can apply load to the complex movements of a target part of a training exercise by simultaneously moving the target part in multiple directions during muscle strength training movements that involve muscle load, and a training exercise using the same.

[0007] That is, the load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to the first aspect includes a main shaft portion having an input portion, to which a user inputs force, connected at one end, and rotating together with the input portion, an intermediate shaft portion which rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the main shaft portion, a first rotation transmission portion which links the main shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion and is used to transmit rotation between the main shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion, a second rotation transmission portion which links the intermediate shaft portion and an orthogonal shaft portion which is orthogonal to the intermediate shaft portion and is used to transmit rotation between the intermediate shaft portion and the orthogonal shaft portion, and a rotation transmission portion which receives external tension and is supported by a bearing. a linear motion guide section that includes a sliding shaft section that is connected to the driving shaft section, an intermediate shaft section, an orthogonal shaft section, and a connecting and fixing section that connects the driving shaft section, an intermediate shaft section, an orthogonal shaft section, and the bearing, and that guides the connecting and fixing section in a linear direction that is parallel to the extension direction of the first rotation transmission section; a tension member that is connected to the sliding shaft section and transmits tension, and changes its extension direction in accordance with the axial and linear movements of the sliding shaft section; and a link mechanism section that is connected to the orthogonal shaft section and the sliding shaft section, and that converts the rotational movement of the orthogonal shaft section into a reciprocating movement of the sliding shaft section.

[0008] A training apparatus according to a second aspect is characterized by including the load transmission mechanism for training apparatus according to the first aspect.

[0009] The load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to the present invention comprises a main shaft having an input section connected to an end thereof through which a user inputs force and which rotates together with the input section, an intermediate shaft which rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the main shaft, a first rotation transmission section which links the main shaft and the intermediate shaft and is used to transmit rotation between the main shaft and the intermediate shaft, a second rotation transmission section which links the intermediate shaft and an orthogonal shaft which is orthogonal to the intermediate shaft and is used to transmit rotation between the intermediate shaft and the orthogonal shaft, a sliding shaft which receives external tension and is supported by a bearing to allow reciprocating motion in the axial direction of the bearing, and a main shaft, intermediate shaft, orthogonal shaft, and bearing. The device is characterized by comprising a connecting and fixing part that connects the first rotation transmission part and a linear guide part that guides the connecting and fixing part's movement in a linear direction parallel to the extension direction of the first rotation transmission part, a tensioning member that is connected to the sliding shaft part to transmit tension and changes the direction of extension in accordance with the axial and linear movement of the sliding shaft part, and a link mechanism part that is connected to the orthogonal shaft part and the sliding shaft part and converts the rotational movement of the orthogonal shaft part into reciprocating movement of the sliding shaft part.Therefore, in movements that involve muscle load in strength training, the target part of the training can be moved in multiple directions simultaneously, thereby applying load to the complex movements of the target part.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1A for a training apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating the configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1A for a training apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1A for a training apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a link mechanism of the load transmission mechanism 1A for a training apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating the internal operation of the load transmission mechanism 1A for a training apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the link mechanism of the load transmission mechanism 1A for a training apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1B for a training apparatus according to a second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a first training apparatus for both arms. FIG. 9 is a front view of a first training apparatus for both arms. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the first training apparatus for both arms in use. FIG. 11 is a front view of the first training apparatus for both arms in use. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a first training apparatus for one arm. FIG. 13 is a front view of a first training apparatus for one arm. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the second training apparatus. FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a footrest portion of the second training apparatus. FIG. 16 is a side view showing a first state of the second training apparatus in use. FIG. 17 is a side view showing a second state of the second training apparatus in use. FIG. 18 is a side view showing a third state of the second training apparatus in use. FIG. 19 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1C for a training apparatus according to a third embodiment. FIG. 20 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1D for a training apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 21 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1E for a training apparatus according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 22 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1F for a training apparatus according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1G for a training apparatus according to a seventh embodiment.Fig. 24 is a perspective view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1G for a training apparatus according to a seventh embodiment. Fig. 25 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of a load transmission mechanism 1H for a training apparatus according to an eighth embodiment.

[0011] <Overview of Load Transmission Mechanism 1A for Training Apparatus According to First Embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1A for training apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1A) will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. The load transmission mechanism 1A is attached to a first training apparatus 100 and a second training apparatus 201 (described below) and receives input from the user's hands.

[0012] <Description of the Configuration of Load Transmission Mechanism 1A> The configuration and operation of the load transmission mechanism 1A of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. First, the configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1A of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 is a front view for explaining the internal configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1A, Figure 2 is a side view for explaining the configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1A, Figure 3 is a perspective view for explaining the internal configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1A, and Figure 4 is a diagram for explaining the link mechanism 30 of the load transmission mechanism 1A.

[0013] The load transmission mechanism 1A includes a housing 22. Because FIGS. 1 and 3 are diagrams for explaining the internal configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1A, the housing 22 is depicted in phantom lines in FIGS. 1 and 3. The housing 22 incorporates a drive shaft 4, an intermediate shaft 5, an orthogonal shaft 6, and a sliding shaft 13. Bidirectional force transmission between the drive shaft 4 and the sliding shaft 13 is possible via the shafts between the drive shaft 4 and the sliding shaft 13. The drive shaft 4 is connected at its end to a grip 11, which is an input unit through which a user inputs force. The drive shaft 4 rotates together with the grip 11 and moves horizontally toward and away from the sliding shaft 13 in the longitudinal direction of the housing 22. The first rotation transmission unit 1K connects the drive shaft 4 and the intermediate shaft 5 and is used to transmit rotation between the drive shaft 4 and the intermediate shaft 5. The intermediate shaft 5 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the main driving shaft 4. In addition, the intermediate shaft 5, the orthogonal shaft 6, and the sliding shaft 13 are connected to the main driving shaft 4 via a connecting and fixing portion 23 (described later), and therefore move horizontally in accordance with the horizontal movement of the main driving shaft 4. The housing 22 forms the outer wall of the load transmission mechanism 1A.

[0014] The orthogonal shaft 6 is orthogonal to the intermediate shaft 5. The second rotation transmission unit 1M connects the intermediate shaft 5 and the orthogonal shaft 6 and is used to transmit rotation between the intermediate shaft 5 and the orthogonal shaft 6. The sliding shaft 13 receives tension from the outside and is supported by a sliding bearing 13a, allowing reciprocating motion in the axial direction of the sliding bearing 13a. The tension 19 is generated by load application units 130, 230 (described below) that freely adjust the magnitude of the load on the training device 100.

[0015] The connecting and fixing part 23 connects the drive shaft 4, the intermediate shaft 5, the orthogonal shaft 6, and the sliding bearing 13a. The connecting and fixing part 23 includes a first fixed piece 23a and a second fixed piece 23b. As shown in FIG. 1 , the first fixed piece 23a is a linear plate-like body, and the second fixed piece 23b is an L-shaped plate-like body.

[0016] The first fixed piece 23a is equipped with a driving bearing (not shown) and an intermediate bearing 5a. The driving bearing rotatably supports the driving shaft 4, and the intermediate bearing 5a rotatably supports the intermediate shaft 5. The driving bearing and intermediate bearing 5a support the driving shaft 4 and the intermediate shaft 5 so that they are parallel to each other. The second fixed piece 23b is an L-shaped plate whose short and long sides are orthogonal to each other. The short side of the L-shape is equipped with a sliding bearing 13a, and the long side of the L-shape is equipped with an orthogonal bearing 6a. The sliding shaft 13 supports the sliding bearing 13a so that it can reciprocate in the axial direction. The orthogonal bearing 6a rotatably supports the orthogonal shaft 6. The link mechanism 30, described below, is connected at both ends to the sliding shaft 13 and the orthogonal shaft 6, converting the rotational motion of the orthogonal shaft 6 into reciprocating motion of the sliding shaft 13.

[0017] The first fixed side 23a is connected to the second fixed side 23b so as to be perpendicular to the L-shaped long side of the second fixed side 23b. Therefore, the main driving shaft 4, the intermediate shaft 5, and the sliding shaft 13 are provided on the connecting and fixing part 23 so as to be parallel to each other. The orthogonal shaft 6 is provided on the connecting and fixing part 23 so as to be perpendicular to the main driving shaft 4, the intermediate shaft 5, and the sliding shaft 13.

[0018] The main drive shaft 4 is provided with a main drive shaft sprocket 4c, and the intermediate shaft 5 is provided with an intermediate shaft sprocket 5c. A sprocket is a gear that transmits the rotation of a shaft to a transmission chain 10, or transmits the rotation of the transmission chain 10 to a shaft. The transmission chain 10 is one of the mechanical elements used for power transmission, transmitting the rotation of a shaft as tension. The transmission chain 10, which constitutes the first rotation transmission part 1K, is suspended between and links the main drive shaft sprocket 4c and the intermediate shaft sprocket 5c. The transmission chain 10 rotates the main drive shaft sprocket 4c and the intermediate shaft sprocket 5c in conjunction with each other, so that the intermediate shaft 5 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the main drive shaft 4.

[0019] The second rotation transmission unit 1M includes an intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d and an orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c. The intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d and the orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c transmit rotation to each other by meshing their teeth with the teeth of the other. The intermediate shaft portion 5 is provided with the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d, and the orthogonal shaft portion 6 is provided with the orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c. A bevel gear is a gear that is attached to each of two intersecting rotation axes, transmits rotational motion between the two axes, and has a conical toothed surface. The intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d and the orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c constitute the second rotation transmission unit 1M, connects the intermediate shaft portion 5 and the orthogonal shaft portion 6 that is orthogonal to the intermediate shaft portion 5, and is used to transmit rotation between the intermediate shaft portion 5 and the orthogonal shaft portion 6.

[0020] The first fixed piece 23a is fixed to the slider 20c of the linear guide unit 20. The linear guide unit 20 is one of mechanical components that includes guides 20a and 20b that serve as rails (railways), a slider 20c, and a guide support base 20d, and the slider 20c sliding along the guides 20a and 20b performs smooth linear motion with low friction. A connecting and fixing part 23 that connects the main driving shaft 4, the intermediate shaft 5, the orthogonal shaft 6, and the sliding shaft 13 is attached to the slider 20c, and the connecting and fixing part 23 moves in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the first rotation transmission unit 1K.

[0021] The linear guide unit 20 includes a first guide 20a, a second guide 20b, a slider 20c, and a guide support base 20d. The guide support base 20d is fixed inside the housing unit 22. The first guide 20a and the second guide 20b are linear rod-shaped bodies that are fixed to the guide support base 20d while maintaining the first guide 20a and the second guide 20b in a parallel state. The slider 20c is installed across the first guide 20a and the second guide 20b, and moves linearly on the first guide 20a and the second guide 20b.

[0022] When the grip unit 11, which serves as the input unit, is moved horizontally by the user, the connecting and fixing unit 23 moves horizontally together with the slider 20c smoothly and with low friction along the extension direction of the first guide 20a and the second guide 20b. The intermediate shaft unit 5 and the orthogonal shaft unit 6 move horizontally in conjunction with the horizontal movement of the connecting and fixing unit 23. The first guide 20a and the second guide 20b are installed in the housing unit 22 so that the extension direction of the first guide 20a and the second guide 20b is parallel to the extension direction of the orthogonal shaft unit 6. As a result, the direction of horizontal movement of the orthogonal shaft unit 6 in conjunction with the horizontal movement of the drive shaft unit 4 is parallel to the extension direction of the orthogonal shaft unit 6. Note that "two directions being parallel" refers to three-dimensional parallelism, meaning that the two directions are on the same plane and do not intersect.

[0023] An elongated hole 33 is provided in the top surface 22a of the housing 22, penetrating vertically. The elongated hole 33 is formed to extend in the direction of linear movement of the slider 20c. The sliding shaft 13 is inserted into the elongated hole 33. The sliding shaft 13 moves horizontally within the elongated hole 33 as the user moves the grip portion 11 horizontally.

[0024] The link mechanism 30 has both ends connected to the sliding shaft 13 and the orthogonal shaft 6, respectively, and converts the rotational motion of the orthogonal shaft 6 into vertical reciprocating motion of the sliding shaft 13. The configuration of the link mechanism 30 will be described with reference to FIG. 4 . The link mechanism 30 includes a first link 30a and a second link 30b. A link generally has a long, thin rod shape, is provided with joints at both ends, and is a component that functions to transmit force and motion. One end of the first link 30a is fixed to the orthogonal shaft 6, and the other end of the first link 30a is connected to one end of the second link 30b to form a first joint 30c. The first joint 30c is a movable joint formed by the first link 30a and the second link 30b. The second link 30b can rotate approximately 360 degrees relative to the first link 30a around the first joint 30c. The other end of the second link 30b is connected to the first end 13b of the sliding shaft 13 to form a second joint 30d. The second joint 30d is a movable joint formed by the second link 30b and the sliding shaft 13. The second link 30b can rotate approximately 360 degrees relative to the sliding shaft 13 around the second joint 30d.

[0025] The tensioning member 25 is connected to the sliding shaft 13 to transmit the tension 19 and change its direction of extension in accordance with the axial and linear movements of the sliding shaft 13. The tensioning member 25 is a flexible rope with little stretchability, and its material and diameter are determined according to the load conditions and durability requirements. The tensioning member 25 is typically made of metal. Alternatively, the tensioning member 25 may be a metal chain. In the first training apparatus 100a for both arms (see FIGS. 8 to 11), one end of the tensioning member 25 is connected to the second end 13c of the sliding shaft 13, and the other end is connected to the tensioning member connecting portion 181 of the load applying unit 130. In the first training apparatus 100b for one arm (see FIGS. 12 to 13), one end of the tensioning member 25 is connected to the second end 13c of one of the sliding shafts 13 of the two load transmission mechanisms 1A, and the other end is connected to the second end 13c of the other sliding shaft 13. The tension member 25 extends from the load applying section 130 and is inserted through the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the direction changing guide roller 170 and wound around it.

[0026] The first guide roll 26 and the second guide roll 27 are each disk-shaped, and have annular grooves 26a and 27a extending in the circumferential direction formed on their outer circumferential surfaces (see FIGS. 1 to 4). The tension member 25 is fitted and held in the grooves 26a and 27a. By being held in the grooves 26a and 27a, the tension member 25 is restricted from moving in the front-to-rear direction (left-to-right on the plane of FIG. 1).

[0027] The tensioning member 25 is sandwiched between a first guide roll 26 and a second guide roll 27, and its movement in the left and right directions (left and right on the plane of FIG. 2 ) is restricted. The first guide roll 26 and the second guide roll 27 rotate in accordance with the forward and backward movement of the tensioning member 25 due to friction generated between them.

[0028] The turning guide wheel 170 converts the downward load applied to the tension member 25 by the weight 131 (described later) into an upward load. The turning guide wheel 170 is disk-shaped, and has an annular groove 170a extending in the circumferential direction formed on its outer circumferential surface (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The tension member 25 fits into and is held in the groove 170a.

[0029] The first guide roll 26 and the second guide roll 27 are attached near the top of the guide support 140 via an attachment bracket 141. The load transmission mechanism 1A is allowed to pivot about the guide support 140. The attachment bracket 141 changes its orientation to follow the orientation of the load transmission mechanism 1A, in accordance with the orientation of the pivoting load transmission mechanism 1A.

[0030] <Explanation of Operation of Load Transmission Mechanism 1A> The operation of the load transmission mechanism 1A will be explained with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a front view for explaining the internal operation of the load transmission mechanism 1A, and Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the link mechanism 30 of the load transmission mechanism 1A.

[0031] First, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 5 , the internal operation of the load transmission mechanism 1A when the drive shaft 4 moves horizontally will be described. In FIG. 5 , the housing 22 is depicted in phantom lines. When the state shown in FIG. 1 changes between that shown in FIG. 5 and that shown in FIG. 5 , the horizontal movement of the housing 22 of the grip unit 11 away from the guide support 140 due to the user's operation is transmitted as horizontal movement of the sliding shaft 13 via the connecting and fixing part 23. The sliding shaft 13 moves horizontally within the elongated hole 33 formed in the upper surface 22a of the housing 22. The tension member 25 connected to the second end 13c of the sliding shaft 13 extends in accordance with the horizontal movement of the second end 13c, changing the angle of extension from the portion of the tension member 25 held by the grooves 26a and 27a.

[0032] 4 and 6, the movement of the internal structure of the load transmission mechanism 1A when the drive shaft 4 is rotated will be described. In the conversion between the state shown in FIG. 4 and the state shown in FIG. 6, the rotational movement of the grip portion 11 by the user is transmitted as rotational movement of the orthogonal shaft 6 by the first rotation transmission unit 1K and the second rotation transmission unit 1M. The rotational movement of the orthogonal shaft 6 is further converted by the link mechanism 30 into vertical movement of the sliding shaft 13, which moves the tension member 25 forward and backward. This, combined with the horizontal movement of the grip portion 11, applies a moderate twisting load to the user's body parts, such as the arms and shoulders, for the user rotating the grip portion 11, thereby enhancing the training effect of the muscles throughout the body.

[0033] <Load transmission mechanism 1B for training apparatus according to second embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1B for training apparatus according to the second embodiment (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1B) will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Load transmission mechanism 1B is a modified example of load transmission mechanism 1A, and is attached to a second training apparatus 201 (described below) for use, and receives input from the user's feet.

[0034] Next, a load transmission mechanism 1B according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 15. FIG. 7 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1B, and FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a footrest 271 of a second training apparatus 201. In FIG. 7, the housing 22 is depicted in phantom lines. The load transmission mechanism 1A described above is a mechanical component that is primarily held by a user's hands and used for upper limb training. In addition, a load transmission mechanism 1B is proposed for lower limb training. The load transmission mechanism 1B is provided with a footrest 271, and the user places their feet on the footrest 271 to train their lower limbs. In this way, the structure of the load transmission mechanism for a training apparatus according to the present disclosure can be expanded for use in upper limb and lower limb training.

[0035] In the load transmission mechanism 1B, a footrest 271, which serves as an input section for the user's force, is connected to a tip 276c of a drive shaft 276. Compared to the load transmission mechanism 1A, the load transmission mechanism 1B differs from the drive shaft 4 of the load transmission mechanism 1A (see FIG. 1) in the configuration of the drive shaft 276. The drive shaft 276 differs from the load transmission mechanism 1A in that a tip 276c protrudes from the same side as the sliding shaft 13 and a footrest 271 is connected to the tip 276c. In the following description of the load transmission mechanism 1B, components common to the load transmission mechanism 1A will be assigned the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the load transmission mechanism 1A in FIGS. 7 and 15 and will not be described again, and only components different from the load transmission mechanism 1A will be described.

[0036] The load transmission mechanism 1B is rotated 90 degrees from the load transmission mechanism 1A (see FIG. 1) and is used in an upright position with the axial direction of the orthogonal shaft 6 being approximately vertical. A drive shaft 276 is disposed near an upper portion 277 of the main body (see FIG. 15).

[0037] The user places either the left or right foot on the footrest 271. The footrest 271 has an area slightly larger than the size of the user's foot. The footrest 271 includes a third rotating shaft 273, a side plate 274a, a side plate 274b, and a connecting plate 275.

[0038] A drive shaft 276 is connected perpendicularly to the center of the connecting plate 275. Flat side plates 274a, 274b are provided at both ends of the connecting plate 275 and connected perpendicularly to the connecting plate 275. A third rotating shaft 273, to which a footrest 271 is attached, is rotatably installed between the side plates 274a, 274b.

[0039] The third rotation shaft 273 is rotatably supported by a bearing 272 (see FIG. 15 ) provided on the back surface of the footrest 271. This allows the footrest 271 to rotate around the third rotation shaft 273. Furthermore, the footrest 271 can rotate around the main drive shaft 276.

[0040] That is, the footrest 271 can rotate around two mutually perpendicular axes. Therefore, by providing the structures shown in FIGS. 7 and 15 , the user has greater freedom in how they place their feet, including the direction and angle of their foot bending. They can place their soles on the footrest 271 in a stress-free manner and push against the footrest 271 with their feet at a desired angle. Thus, the user can apply a load to the flexion and extension exercises of the foot placed on the footrest 271 in a desired posture (angle and force) using the second training device 201, and can also apply a load to the twisting exercise of the entire foot by changing the orientation of the toes of the foot from upward to sideways during the flexion and extension exercises. Therefore, in lower limb training using the second training device 201, the user can simultaneously perform a flexion and extension exercise with load and a twisting exercise with load of the foot placed on the footrest 271, thereby performing multiple movements of multiple muscles in the foot under an appropriately adjusted load.

[0041] <Explanation of Operation of Load Transmission Mechanism 1B According to Second Embodiment> A user can perform various leg exercises using the load transmission mechanism 1B. With reference to Figures 7 and 15, the operation of the load transmission mechanism 1B will be described below while showing an example of leg exercise. As an example of leg exercise, the operation of the load transmission mechanism 1B accompanying exercise of bending and straightening the user's knee joint will be described.

[0042] As an initial posture of the user, the knee joint is bent and the top of the foot is placed on the footrest 271 facing straight up (see FIG. 16). In the initial posture of the user, the footrest 271 is positioned closer to the user's body with the user's leg bent.

[0043] Next, the user gradually straightens the knee joint from its bent state in the initial posture (see FIG. 17 ), and rotates the leg by tilting the knee joint inward (see FIG. 18 ). When straightening the knee joint, the user pushes the leg diagonally upward to push up the footrest 271, causing the footrest 271 to move upward in a parallel motion (see FIG. 17 ). Then, with the knee joint in its maximum open position, the user tilts the knee joint inward as far as possible (see FIG. 18 ).

[0044] At this time, the footrest 271 is in a state where the user of the load transmission mechanism 1B has their legs extended and is positioned on the side farthest from the user's body, and the footrest 271 has rotated to the maximum extent around the axis of the drive shaft 276 (see FIG. 18 ). In the load transmission mechanism 1B, the upward translation of the footrest 271 causes the sliding shaft 13 to move upward, thereby increasing the load applied by the load application unit 230.

[0045] In the load transmission mechanism 1B, by rotating the footrest 271, the rotation of the drive shaft 276 is transmitted to the sliding shaft 13 via the first rotation transmission unit 1K, the second rotation transmission unit 1M, and the link mechanism 30. The sliding shaft 13 is displaced relative to the housing 22, and this displacement displaces the weight of the load application unit 230 up and down. In the load transmission mechanism 1B, the rotation of the footrest 271 around the axis of the drive shaft 276 causes the displacement of the sliding shaft 13, thereby causing a change in the load applied by the load application unit 230. The user can rotate the footrest 271 while resisting the biasing force generated by the load application unit 230. Note that the change in load generated by the load application unit 230 can be received regardless of the rotational movement at any position in the translational movement of the footrest 271.

[0046] <Overview of the First Training Apparatus 100 and the Second Training Apparatus 201> The first training apparatus 100 will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 13. The first training apparatus 100 is a device used for exercising the upper limbs and is equipped with a load transmission mechanism 1A that receives input from the hands. The first training apparatus 100 is divided into a first training apparatus 100a for both arms (see Figures 8 to 11) and a first training apparatus 100b for one arm (see Figures 12 and 13).

[0047] 14 to 18, the second training device 201 will be described. The second training device 201 is equipped with a load transmission mechanism 1A that receives input from the hands and a load transmission mechanism 1B that receives input from the feet, and is a device that supports exercise of both the upper and lower limbs.

[0048] The load transmission mechanism 1A includes a mechanism for transmitting loads such as weights of the first training apparatus 100 and the second training apparatus 201 to the user. The load transmission mechanism 1A includes a grip portion 11 (see FIG. 1, etc.) that is a handle that the user grips, and is used for training upper limbs such as the arms and shoulders. The load transmission mechanism 1B includes a footrest portion 271 (see FIG. 7) for the user, and is used for training lower limbs such as the legs.

[0049] The grip units 11 gripped by the user and the user's footrest 271 are input units through which the user inputs force. For example, the user holds the two grip units 11, which serve as input units, with their left and right hands, with the backs of their hands facing the left and right outer sides of the first training device 100 in its initial state (see FIGS. 8 and 9 ). Then, while holding the grip units 11 with both hands, the user simultaneously moves both arms downward to input a pulling force to the grip units 11. The user also holds the two grip units 11 with their left and right hands, with the backs of their hands facing the left and right outer sides of the first training device 100 in its initial state (see FIGS. 8 and 9 ). Then, while holding the grip units 11 with both hands, the user extends both arms and simultaneously rotates them outward to the left and right to perform a chest-opening exercise, thereby inputting a force to rotate the load transmission mechanism 1A outward via the grip units 11. The grip portion 11 is an annular member, and the user grips the annular grip portion 11 by putting his / her hand through the grip portion 11 .

[0050] The user sits on the right side (near side in the figures) of the seat 211 of the second training apparatus 201 (see FIGS. 14 to 18 ) in its initial state. The user then raises his or her right arm and grasps the grip portion 11 with his or her right hand. While still grasping the grip portion 11 with his or her right hand, the user swings his or her right arm down forward, thereby applying a pulling force to the grip portion 11, which serves as an input unit. The user also sits on the right side (near side in the figures) of the seat 211 of the second training apparatus 201 (see FIGS. 14 to 18 ), places his or her left leg on the footrest 271, which serves as an input unit of the load transmission mechanism 1B, and bends the knee (see FIG. 16 ). The user then extends his or her left foot, thereby applying a pushing force to the footrest 271 (see FIG. 17 ).

[0051] <First training device 100> The configuration of the first training device 100 is shown in Figures 8 to 13. The first training device 100 is a training device that is used by attaching a load transmission mechanism 1A. The first training device 100 shown in Figures 8 to 13 is divided into a first training device 100a for both arms (see Figures 8 to 11) and a first training device 100b for one arm (see Figures 12 and 13).

[0052] The first training device 100a for both arms shown in Figures 8 to 11 is a device in which the handles (grip portions 11) of the two load transmission mechanisms 1A, one on each side, are held with both hands and the upper limbs are exercised while always maintaining the same height, thereby achieving functional coordination between the left and right upper limbs and enhancing functional correlation. The first training device 100b for one arm shown in Figures 12 and 13 is the same as the first training device 100a for both arms in that the handles (grip portions 11) of the two load transmission mechanisms 1A, one on each side, can be held with both hands, but the first training device 100b for one arm is a device in which one of the grip portions 11 of the two load transmission mechanisms 1A is mainly held in one hand and the upper limbs are exercised separately. The first training device 100 includes a first training device 100a for both arms (see FIGS. 8 to 11) and a first training device 100b for one arm (see FIGS. 12 to 13), and common components are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0053] <Explanation of the Configuration of the First Training Apparatus 100> The first training apparatus 100 can be used to train the upper limbs of a user by attaching a load transmission mechanism 1A to the first training apparatus 100. The configuration of the first training apparatus 100 will be explained using an example in which the load transmission mechanism 1A is attached to the first training apparatus 100.

[0054] 8 to 13, the first training apparatus 100 comprises a seat 110, a frame 120 supporting the seat 110, a load application unit 130 provided on the frame 120 and capable of adjusting the magnitude of the load, and two guide posts 140 fixed vertically at a predetermined interval to the frame 120 so that the seat 110 is at the center of the frame 120. The first training apparatus 100 further comprises two load transmission mechanisms 1A, one end of which is fitted to each of the load transmission mechanisms 1A so as to be movable up and down and rotatable horizontally, gripping units 11 connected to the lower ends of the drive shafts 4 of the two load transmission mechanisms 1A, and a tension member 25, one end of which is connected to the load application unit 130 and the other end of which is wound around a direction changing guide wheel 170 provided on the frame 120 and connected to the other end of the load transmission mechanism 1A further toward the fitting position of the guide posts 140. In the load transmission mechanism 1A, a load from the load applying unit 130 is applied via the tension member 25 to the gripping unit 11 as the shaft rotates, causing a load fluctuation.

[0055] The seating section 110 comprises a seat 111 suitable for a user of the first training apparatus 100 to sit facing forward, and a seat support 112 provided vertically on the underside of the seat 111.

[0056] The frame 120 stably places the first training apparatus 100 on the floor and serves as the skeleton of the entire first training apparatus 100, to which the seating section 110, the load applying section 130, and two guide columns 140 are fixed. A seat column 112 is inserted into a hole formed vertically forward from the center of the underside of the frame 120, and the seating section 110 is supported by the frame 120. The frame 120 is provided with thigh support sections 121 that prevent the thighs of a user seated on the seat 111 from lifting up. The thigh support sections 121 are preferably provided to allow the user to create an appropriate arch in the back during training.

[0057] The load-applying unit 130 is provided on the frame 120, allows the magnitude of the load applied to the first training apparatus 100 to be adjustable, and includes a weight 131, such as a stack weight made up of multiple plate-like metal weight members, a weight guide strut 132 that supports the weight 131 on the frame 120 so that it can move up and down, and a clamp (not shown) that can adjust the number of weights 131 stacked together by connecting and separating them from one another. The load (load) of the load-applying unit 130 is adjusted by adjusting the number of weights 131. The pair of cylindrical weight guide struts 132 have upper and lower ends fixed vertically to the frame 120 behind the seating unit 110 with a predetermined left-right gap between them, and the plate-like plates of the weight 131 are stacked through holes in the struts and supported on the frame 120 so that they can move up and down.

[0058] A connection part 7 is provided on the housing part 22 to connect the load transmission mechanism part 1A to the first training apparatus 100. The connection part 7 of the load transmission mechanism part 1A takes the form of a cylindrical connection tube part 8. A guide strut 140 is inserted into the connection tube part 8. A material with low sliding resistance, such as fluororesin, is used for the connection tube part 8. As a result, the load transmission mechanism part 1A can smoothly move up and down and rotate in the first training apparatus 100.

[0059] The load transmission mechanism 1A is fitted to the guide support 140 by inserting the guide support 140 into the connection portion 7, allowing it to move up and down and rotate horizontally. The grip portions 11 connected to the drive shafts 4 of the two load transmission mechanisms 1A are annular handles that the user grasps with their hands and use to input force. Each grip portion 11 rotates horizontally around the drive shaft 4 of the load transmission mechanism 1A. In the initial state of the first training device 100 (see FIGS. 8 and 9 ), the backs of the user's hands holding each grip portion 11 face outward to the left and right of the first training device 100, and each grip portion 11 is located above the position of the user's outstretched arms while seated on the seat 111. The user can then lower the load transmission mechanism 1A via the grip portion 11 by grasping the grip portion 11 and lowering their arms. At this time, the user moves both arms outward from the midline (the center line between the left and right sides of the body) to open the chest. Figures 10 and 11 show the state of the first training device 100a for both arms when the user is in a position with the chest open.

[0060] 8 to 11 show a first training device 100a for both arms that is used by moving both arms simultaneously, while FIGS. 12 and 13 show a first training device 100b for one arm that is used by moving each arm separately. The first training device 100a for both arms uses two ropes or wires of the same length as the tensioning members 25, with one end of each of the two tensioning members 25 connected to a weight 131 and the other end connected to the load transmission mechanism 1A. The two tensioning members 25 are wound around a direction-changing guide wheel 170. The direction-changing guide wheel 170 converts the downward load applied to the tensioning members 25 by the weight 131 into an upward load. The two tensioning members 25 and the weight 131 are connected at two tensioning member connection portions 181 (see FIGS. 9, 11, etc.).

[0061] The tensioning member 25 of the first one-arm training apparatus 100b shown in Figures 12 and 13 is a single rope or wire. Both ends of this tensioning member 25 are connected to two load transmission mechanisms 1A. A movable pulley 134 is housed in a box portion 133 provided at the upper end of the weight 131, and the tensioning member 25 is wound around this movable pulley 134. The tensioning member 25 is pulled into the box portion 133 through two holes 136 provided on the top surface of the box portion 133 (only one hole 136 is shown in Figure 12). When one of the two load transmission mechanisms 1A is pulled down, the tensioning member 25, together with the movable pulley 134, lifts the weight 131 upward, using the other load transmission mechanism 1A as a fulcrum. The movable pulley 134 is rotatably supported on a support base 135 fixed inside the box portion 133.

[0062] 8 and 9 , the user opens his / her chest, and a load is applied by the tension of the tensioning member 25 against the horizontal outward rotation of the load transmission mechanism 1A about the guide pillar 140. The tension of the tensioning member 25 is generated by a load application unit 130 that freely adjusts the magnitude of the load on the first training apparatus 100. Note that in a second training apparatus 201 (described later), similar to the first training apparatus 100, the tension of the tensioning member 280 is generated by a load application unit 230 that freely adjusts the magnitude of the load on the second training apparatus 201.

[0063] 10 and 11, a load acts to close the load transmission mechanism 1A inward so that it faces the front, and the user can rotate the load transmission mechanism 1A to a predetermined angle so that it faces the load. The load acting to close the load transmission mechanism 1A inward so that it faces the front is proportional to the load on the load application unit 130 and is roughly inversely proportional to the vertical position of the load transmission mechanism 1A.

[0064] In addition, in the first training device 100b for one arm shown in Figures 12 and 13, by adjusting the load-applying unit 130, it is possible to train by varying the load associated with the lifting and lowering operation of the load transmission mechanism unit 1A for each user.

[0065] <Explanation of How to Use the First Training Apparatus 100> A typical method of using the first training apparatus 100 will be explained in order. First, the weight 131 is set to a weight that matches the load taking into consideration the user's muscle strength, purpose, etc. The user sits in the seat 111 facing forward, and the seat 111 is adjusted and fixed to an appropriate height so that the soles of the feet are in contact with the floor. Furthermore, the thigh presser 121 is adjusted and fixed to an appropriate height so that it comes into contact with the upper surfaces of the thighs of the user seated in the seat 111.

[0066] Next, the user stands up, aligns the load transmission mechanism 1A to its initial state (see FIGS. 8 and 9) facing forward, and grasps the grips 11 with the backs of their hands facing outward on the left and right sides of the first training apparatus 100. Then, while grasping the grips 11 with their outstretched hands and pulling the grips 11 downward, the user sits down on the seat 111 facing forward.

[0067] Next, the user twists both upper arms outward against the rotational biasing force acting on the gripping units 11 by a force proportional to the load of the load-applying units 130, and rotates each gripping unit 11 horizontally relative to the load transmission mechanism 1A, so that the backs of the hands holding each gripping unit 11 face outward from the front of the first training device 100. By assuming this "dodge" position, both the flexor and extensor muscles are "relaxed," resulting in a relaxed state of the shoulders and arms. In addition, the load of the load-applying units 130 biases the gripping units 11 upward, appropriately "stretching" the muscles around the shoulder girdle and other areas.

[0068] Next, the user flexes both arms against the load of the load application unit 130, "shortening" the muscles and pulling down the grip unit 11 so that the muscles around the shoulder girdle, etc., which have been moderately "stretched," trigger a "reflex." At this time, the user pulls down the grip unit 11 with both hands while also twisting the upper arms outward, performing "relaxation" and "extension" movements. This outward twisting of the upper arms rotates each grip unit 11 further outward horizontally relative to the load transmission mechanism 1A, thereby pulling up the weights 131 and reducing the load in the initial movement of pulling down both arms. In this way, when bending both arms to "shorten" the muscles by pulling down the grip unit 11, further twisting the upper arms outward adds "relaxation" and "extension" movements, thereby creating appropriate timing for "shortening." This allows each muscle group to achieve the "relaxation-extension-shortening" timing and perform the movement in a well-coordinated manner.

[0069] Furthermore, the user can apply an appropriately adjusted load to each of the three directions (downward, rotational, and lateral) by the load application unit 130 when pulling down both arms and then twisting and stretching the upper arms outward, allowing each muscle group that has been appropriately "stretched" to achieve the timing of "relaxation-stretch-shortening" and perform movements in good coordination. Note that when the upper arms are stretched outward, there is no large fluctuation in the load applied by the load application unit 130 (weight 131) in response to the horizontal movement of the grip unit 11 (drive shaft 4).

[0070] When the user bends both arms to pull down the grip unit 11, the user gradually spreads both arms outward so that each load transmission mechanism 1A faces outward, resisting the force that rotates the load transmission mechanisms 1A so that they face forward. Because the force that rotates the load transmission mechanisms 1A so that they face forward is approximately inversely proportional to the position (height) of the load transmission mechanisms 1A, the resistance to spreading the arms outward decreases as the user bends both arms to pull down the grip unit 11. Therefore, when the user bends both arms to pull down the grip unit 11, the user can smoothly spread the arms outward while pulling down the grip unit 11 by outputting a substantially constant muscle force to spread the arms outward, thereby preventing co-contraction of the agonist and antagonist muscles.

[0071] An agonist is a muscle that generates the main force required to perform a movement. An antagonist is a muscle that acts in the opposite direction to the agonist, providing some resistance or counter-action to a specific movement. Antagonists act in the opposite direction to the agonist, controlling its function. For example, when bending the elbow, the biceps corresponds to the agonist, and the triceps, located on the opposite side (back) of the biceps, corresponds to the antagonist. On the other hand, when extending the elbow, the triceps corresponds to the agonist, and the biceps corresponds to the antagonist. When muscles are relaxed, they are relaxed and elongated, and exert force by shortening (contracting). For example, bending the elbow is performed by the biceps shortening and the triceps, the antagonist, extending. However, if both the biceps and triceps are tense and attempting to shorten, the elbow cannot be bent. Co-contraction occurs when both the agonist and antagonist muscles try to shorten at the same time, hindering the intended movement. Co-contraction is likely to occur when the body is tense due to excessive force being applied and unable to relax. In sports, co-contraction can hinder the smooth series of movements that take place from the initial build-up of force to the release of force, such as in pitching, throwing, and hitting.

[0072] Next, the user lowers each grip 11 to approximately shoulder height, and then, while following the biasing forces of the loads applied by the load-applying units 130, twists the upper arms inward, closes both arms inward, and extends both arms, slowly returning the backs of the hands to a seated position following the grip 11. This completes one cycle of training. This training is then repeated an appropriate number of times.

[0073] <Second Training Apparatus 201> The configuration and operation of the second training apparatus 201 will be described with reference to Figures 14 to 18. Figure 14 is a perspective view of the second training apparatus 201, and Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a footrest section 271 of the second training apparatus 201. Figures 16 to 18 are side views showing first to third modes of the second training apparatus 201 in use. <Explanation of the Configuration of the Second Training Apparatus 201> As shown in Figure 14, the second training apparatus 201 includes a seat section 210 on which a user sits, a load application section 230 that applies a load, and a cylindrical guide column 240 that extends vertically. Furthermore, the second training apparatus 201 includes an elevator section 250 that is connected to the guide column 240 and is movable up and down while being guided by the guide column 240 and is rotatable, and a grip section 260 provided on the elevator section 250. Furthermore, the second training device 201 includes a footrest 271 for placing the soles of the user's feet, slide rails 222a, 222b, a load transmission mechanism 1B equipped with the footrest 271, and a tension member 280 having one end connected to the lifting / lowering unit 250 and the other end connected to the load transmission mechanism 1B, and applying the load from the load application unit 230 to the lifting / lowering unit 250 and the load transmission mechanism 1B.

[0074] The load transmission mechanism 1A can be applied and used as the lifting / lowering unit 250. The gripping unit 260 corresponds to the gripping unit 11 of the load transmission mechanism 1A, and is an input unit through which the user inputs force.

[0075] First, the structure of the second training apparatus 201 will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. In the second training apparatus 201 shown in Figure 14, the seating section 210 is supported by a framework 220 that serves as a basic frame for the second training apparatus 201. The framework 220 provides the skeleton of the entire second training apparatus 201 and functions to stably install the second training apparatus 201 on the floor. The framework 220 can be formed by processing a rectangular pipe material or a plate material made of a material having a certain level of rigidity or higher, such as steel, aluminum, stainless steel, or resin, and fixing it with bolts, welding, or the like.

[0076] The seating section 210 comprises a seat 211 on which a user sits and a seat support 212 that supports the seat 211. The seat support 212 is fixed to the frame 220. The seat support 212 holds the seat 211. Although not shown, the seat support 212 has a through-hole that allows the tension member 280 to pass through in the front-to-rear direction. The seat 211 is where a user of the second training apparatus 201 sits, and as shown in FIG. 14 , the seat 211 is a rectangle that is long in the left-to-right direction of the second training apparatus 201. This is so that the user can sit on either the right or left side of the seat 211. However, the shape does not have to be rectangular, and may be square or circular as long as the user can sit comfortably.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 14 , the seating section 210 may include a backrest 215, which is located behind the seat 211 and between the seating section 210 and the load-applying section 230, for supporting the user's body during use. The framework 220 is provided with a guide pillar 240 extending in the vertical direction. As shown in Fig. 14 , the guide pillar 240 is provided in a position forward of the load-applying section 230 and rearward of the seating section 210. As shown in Fig. 14 , the framework 220 includes an upper housing 225, behind the guide pillar 240, for guiding the tension member 280 in the vertical direction. The guide pillar 240 has a lower end connected to the framework 220 and an upper end connected to and fixed to the upper housing 225.

[0078] 14 , the guide support 240 may be provided with a shock absorbing material 241. The shock absorbing material 241 is a member for absorbing the shock when the lifting unit 250 comes into contact with the upper housing 225 and the framework 220. The shock absorbing material 241 may be realized by, for example, rubber, sponge, or the like.

[0079] An elevator unit 250 shown in FIG. 14 is attached to the guide support 240. As shown in FIG. 14, the elevator unit 250 is attached so as to be movable up and down relative to the guide support 240. Although not shown, the elevator unit 250 has a through-hole for inserting the guide support 240. Therefore, the elevator unit 250 moves up and down along the guide support 240. The elevator unit 250 is attached to the guide support 240 so as to be rotatable relative to the guide support 240, with the guide support 240 as the central axis. Therefore, a certain level of rigidity is required for the guide support 240. Therefore, the guide support 240 may be made of stainless steel, for example. In the second training apparatus 201, the load transmission mechanism 1A according to the first embodiment described above may be applied as the elevator unit 250.

[0080] 14, the load transmission mechanism 1B of the second training apparatus 201 slides along slide rails 222a and 222b. The slide rails 222a and 222b are suspended from a frame 220 of the second training apparatus 201 and a frame 221 disposed in front of the frame 220, and are fixed at both ends.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 14 , the load application unit 230 includes a pair of cylindrical weight guide posts 232 fixed at the top and bottom to the frame 220, and weights 233 that are movable up and down relative to the weight guide posts 232. The weights 233 have through-holes for inserting the weight guide posts 232. The load application unit 230 is configured to adjust the magnitude of the load it applies. Specifically, the weights 233, such as stack weights, are plate-shaped members, and the load can be adjusted by varying the number of weights. Therefore, the load application unit 230 may include a clamp (not shown) that adjusts the number of stacked weights 233 so that they can be connected and separated from one another. The weight guide posts 232 are also provided with shock-absorbing materials 231 to prevent the weights 233 from colliding with the frame 220 with a certain level of impact or greater.

[0082] <Method of Using the Second Training Apparatus 201> A method of using the second training apparatus 201 will be described with reference to Figures 16 to 18. As shown in Figure 16, the user sits on the right side of the second training apparatus 201, i.e., on the right side of the seat 211 (the left front side of the paper in Figure 16). That is, the user sits on the seat 211 with the load transmission mechanism 1B on the left side and the backrest 215 on the right side. Then, as shown in Figure 16, the user places their left leg on the footrest 271 of the load transmission mechanism 1B with their knee bent.

[0083] From this state, the user extends his / her left leg and pushes against the load transmission mechanism 1B. As a result, the load transmission mechanism 1B slides along the slide rails 222a and 222b, as shown in Fig. 16. At this time, a load that pulls the second training apparatus 201 rearward (toward the left on the paper in Figs. 16 to 18) is applied to the load transmission mechanism 1B by the tension member 280 connected to the connection part 279.

[0084] Then, from the state in which the legs are extended as shown in Figure 16, the load transmission mechanism 1B is slowly slid back to its original position along the slide rails 222a and 222b. This exercise is repeated a certain number of times. In other words, the user repeats the postures between Figures 16 and 17 a predetermined number of times.

[0085] As shown in Fig. 18, the user may twist the waist further than in the state shown in Fig. 17 to push the load transmission mechanism 1B farther, thereby stretching the legs and strengthening the waist. This posture is possible because the footrest 271 is configured to be freely rotatable about the axis of the drive shaft 276 relative to the load transmission mechanism 1B body. The user may perform leg extension and contraction exercises between Fig. 16 and Fig. 17, or may perform leg extension and contraction exercises with waist twisting between Fig. 16 and Fig. 18.

[0086] 16 to 18, on the left side of the second training apparatus 201 (the far side of the paper in FIGS. 16 to 18). In other words, by sitting on the seat 211 with the load transmission mechanism 1B on the right side of the user and the backrest 215 on the left side, the user can exercise with their right leg.

[0087] Therefore, the user can use the second training machine 201 to perform bidirectional rotational exercises around the waist while strengthening both legs. Specifically, the user spreads their legs and pushes off the load transmission mechanism 1B in a kicking motion. This is a good example for strengthening the muscles around the user's hip joints, pelvis, thighs, knees, etc.

[0088] Each muscle group in the leg can achieve the timing of "relaxation-stretch-contraction" and perform movements in good coordination. Specifically, in the state shown in Figure 16, no load is applied to the left foot by the load application unit 230, and the muscles are in a "stretched" state. In addition, the state shown in Figure 16 is also a state in which the foot is simply placed on the footrest unit 271, and the overall state is relaxed, so it can also be said to be a "relaxed" state.

[0089] From this position, the user applies force to their foot to push the load transmission mechanism 1B, to which the load is being applied by the load application unit 230. That is, in the process shown in FIGS. 16 to 17 or 18 , the load of the load application unit 230 is applied to the user's left leg, causing the muscles of the user's left leg to enter a "contracted" state. Then, in the state shown in FIG. 17 or 18 , by rotating the footrest 271 relative to the load transmission mechanism 1B, the internal crank mechanism retracts the connection portion 279 into the load transmission mechanism 1B, thereby reducing the load applied by the load application unit 230 to the foot. That is, when the load transmission mechanism 1B is rotated as shown in FIG. 17 or 18 , the "contracted" state can be created in the user's foot. Furthermore, because the load application unit 230 does not exert a large load on the translational movement of the footrest 271, the load transmission mechanism 1B allows the user to focus on the load associated with the rotation of the footrest 271.

[0090] 16 from the state shown in FIG. 17 or 18 , returning the leg to the state shown in FIG. 16 can induce a "stretched" state of the muscle. Therefore, by repeating a cycle of moving the load transmission mechanism 1B from the state shown in FIG. 16 to the state shown in FIG. 17 or 18 and then returning to the state shown in FIG. 16 , a "relaxation-stretch-contraction" timing can be generated, allowing for well-coordinated movement. Regarding leg exercise, the state shown in FIG. 16 may be used as the initial state, or one cycle of exercise may be performed using the state shown in FIG. 17 or 18 as the initial state. However, since it is desirable to start exercise from a "relaxed" state, if exercise is started using the state shown in FIG. 17 or 18 as the initial state, it is desirable to start exercise from an unloaded state in the initial state with the cooperation of another person, etc.

[0091] Because the second training apparatus 201 is designed to train one leg at a time rather than both legs, there is no need to provide a load transmission mechanism 1B for training both legs at once, which allows the apparatus to be made more compact than one designed to train both legs. Furthermore, the second training apparatus 201 can be made narrower than one that has two load transmission mechanisms 1B for each leg, which reduces the amount of space required for installation. In the exercises shown in Figures 16 and 17, the user may perform the exercises by sitting on the seat 210 of the second training apparatus 201 with the load transmission mechanism 1B facing forward and with their back against the backrest 215.

[0092] Summary of the First Training Device 100 and the Second Training Device 201 The first training device 100 and the second training device 201 described above are devices that appropriately train muscles of the shoulders, arms, back, legs, and the like using initial load training (registered trademark). Initial load training is defined as "training that utilizes a change in the body's position to induce a reflex and the accompanying change in the center of gravity to promote the "relaxation-stretch-shortening" series of movements of agonist muscles while preventing co-contraction of antagonistic muscles and muscles acting antagonistically." A reflex is an unconscious reaction. Initial load training is completely different from final load training, which applies load to the end, resulting in muscle hypertrophy while maintaining muscle tension (hardening). Initial load training requires training while understanding the overall movement image, including the point at which the load is applied, the point and angle at which the load is released, rhythm, and the continuity of muscle output. Conventional load training involves problems such as difficulty in performing appropriate movements and form due to body balance and partial hardening. However, the first training device 100 and the second training device 201 that realize initial load training easily induce training that involves an ideal series of movements and form.

[0093] Initial load training using the first training device 100 and the second training device 201 first involves "intersegmental force transmission from the central (body trunk) to the peripheral parts," i.e., relaxing and easing the muscles of the human body, which have the characteristic of contracting rather than stretching themselves. Initial load training then applies an appropriate load to the muscle spindles and tendon organs, which are sensory receptors, to generate a muscle stretch reflex, inducing the exertion of force when the muscle contracts from a moderately stretched or passively stretched point. The instantaneous and continuous gradual reduction of the load creates an active state without co-contraction, thereby promoting and developing neuromuscular control. The muscle stretch reflex is a spinal reflex that refers to the contraction of skeletal muscles when they are passively stretched. This contraction occurs when the muscle spindles within the muscle sense the tension generated by muscle stretch. The muscle stretch reflex also serves as a kind of defense mechanism, contracting overstretched muscles to avoid injury. An example of a muscle stretch reflex is the patellar tendon reflex. Cardiac muscle is said to be the only muscle in the human body that does not contract co-contraction, and initial load training is a training method that prevents co-contraction by promoting a series of "relaxation-stretch-shortening" movements in muscles other than cardiac muscle.

[0094] Initial load training using the first training device 100 and the second training device 201 utilizes the load of the training device to induce muscle reflexes, allowing muscles to function as they should, improving muscle and nerve function. The load is used as a catalyst to promote timely contraction and shortening of relaxed muscles. This type of training promotes the "relaxation-stretch-shortening" sequence and prevents co-contraction, thereby improving nerve-muscle function and coordination, reducing strain on the body such as muscle pain and fatigue, and resulting in flexible, elastic muscles without muscle hardening. Furthermore, by promoting aerobic metabolism with minimal forced increases in heart rate and blood pressure, this training is effective in preventing lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, promoting the healing of ligament injuries and fractures, and creating beneficial conditions for the body, such as relieving nerve, muscle, and joint stress and eliminating waste products.

[0095] <Configuration of Load Transmission Mechanism 1C for Training Apparatus of Third Embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1C for training apparatus of a third embodiment (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1C) will be described with reference to FIG. 19 . FIG. 19 is a front view for illustrating the internal configuration of load transmission mechanism 1C according to the third embodiment. Load transmission mechanism 1C is a modified example of load transmission mechanism 1A, is attached to the first training apparatus 100, and receives input from the user's hand. In the following description of load transmission mechanism 1C, only differences from load transmission mechanism 1A will be described; points in common with load transmission mechanism 1A are denoted by the same reference numerals as load transmission mechanism 1A in FIG. 19 and will not be described again.

[0096] The load transmission mechanism 1C has a configuration similar to that of the load transmission mechanism 1A, but with the addition of a feed roll 28. The first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the feed roll 28 are attached near the top of the guide support 140 via a mounting bracket 141. The tension member 25 extends from the load applying unit 130 and is inserted through and wound around the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, the feed roll 28, and the direction-changing guide wheel 170. The tension member 25 is connected to the sliding shaft 13 to transmit tension 19. It also extends in the tangential direction of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical feed roll 28, changing its extension direction in accordance with the axial and linear movement of the sliding shaft 13. The tension member 25, connected to the second end 13c of the sliding shaft 13, extends in accordance with the horizontal movement of the second end 13c, changing the angle of its extension direction from the feed roll 28.

[0097] The feed roll 28 is disk-shaped and has an annular groove 28a extending in the circumferential direction formed on its outer circumferential surface (see FIG. 19 ). The tensioning member 25 is fitted into and held in the groove 28a. The feed roll 28 is disposed between the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the sliding shaft portion 13, and restricts the movement of the tensioning member 25 in the front-rear direction (left-right on the paper surface of FIG. 19 ). The feed roll 28 rotates in accordance with the forward and backward movement of the tensioning member 25 due to friction generated between the feed roll 28 and the tensioning member 25.

[0098] <Configuration of Load Transmission Mechanism 1D for Training Apparatus According to Fourth Embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1D for training apparatus according to a fourth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1D) will be described with reference to FIG. 20 . FIG. 20 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of load transmission mechanism 1D according to the fourth embodiment. Load transmission mechanism 1D is a modified version of load transmission mechanism 1B and a modified version of load transmission mechanism 1C, is attached to a second training apparatus 201, and receives input from the user's foot. In the following description of load transmission mechanism 1D, only differences from load transmission mechanism 1B will be described. Points in common with load transmission mechanism 1B will be denoted by the same reference numerals as load transmission mechanism 1B in FIG. 20 and will not be described again.

[0099] The load transmission mechanism 1D has a configuration in which a feed roll 28 is further added to the configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1B. Furthermore, compared to the load transmission mechanism 1C, the load transmission mechanism 1D differs from the load transmission mechanism 1C in the configuration of the drive shaft 276, which is different from the drive shaft 4 of the load transmission mechanism 1C (see FIG. 19 ). The drive shaft 276 differs from the load transmission mechanism 1A in that a tip end 276c protrudes from the same side as the sliding shaft 13, and a footrest 271 is connected to the tip end 276c.

[0100] The first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the feed roll 28 are attached near the tip of the guide support 140 via a mounting bracket 141. The load transmission mechanism 1B shown in FIG. 7, the load transmission mechanism 1D shown in FIG. 20, and the load transmission mechanism 1F shown in FIG. 22 are each provided with a footrest 271 and mounted on a second training apparatus 201. In this case, the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the feed roll 28 are installed near the bottom of the seat 211 via the mounting bracket 141. The tension member 25 extends from the load applying portion 230 and is inserted through and wound around the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, the feed roll 28, and the pulley 285h. Similar to the load transmission mechanism 1C, the tension member 25 is connected to the sliding shaft 13 to transmit the tension 19, and extends in the tangential direction of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical feed roll 28, changing the direction of extension in accordance with the axial and linear movements of the sliding shaft 13. The tension member 25 connected to the second end 13c of the sliding shaft 13 extends in accordance with the horizontal movement of the second end 13c, changing the angle of the extension direction from the feed roll 28.

[0101] Similar to the load transmission mechanism 1C, the feed roll 28 is disk-shaped and has an annular groove 28a extending in the circumferential direction formed on its outer circumferential surface (see FIG. 20 ). The tensioning member 25 is fitted into and held in the groove 28a. The feed roll 28 is disposed between the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the sliding shaft 13 to restrict movement of the tensioning member 25 in the front-to-rear direction (the up-and-down direction on the paper surface of FIG. 20 ). Similar to the load transmission mechanism 1C, the feed roll 28 rotates in accordance with the advancement and retreat of the tensioning member 25 due to friction generated between the feed roll 28 and the tensioning member 25.

[0102] <Configuration of Load Transmission Mechanism 1E for Training Apparatus According to Fifth Embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1E for training apparatus according to a fifth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1E) will be described with reference to FIG. 21 . FIG. 21 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of load transmission mechanism 1E according to the fifth embodiment. Load transmission mechanism 1E is a modified example of load transmission mechanism 1A, is attached to the first training apparatus 100, and receives input from the user's hand. In the following description of load transmission mechanism 1E, only differences from load transmission mechanism 1A will be described; points in common with load transmission mechanism 1A will be denoted by the same reference numerals as load transmission mechanism 1A in FIG. 21 and will not be described again.

[0103] The load transmission mechanism 1E has a configuration in which the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the mounting bracket 141 are removed from the configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1A. The tension member 25 extends from the load applying unit 230, is inserted into and wound around the direction change guide wheel 170, and is connected to the sliding shaft 13. The tension member 25 is connected to the sliding shaft 13 to transmit the tension 19 and changes its extension direction in accordance with the axial and linear movements of the sliding shaft 13. The tension member 25, connected to the second end 13c of the sliding shaft 13, extends in accordance with the horizontal movement of the second end 13c, changing the angle of the extension direction from the direction change guide wheel 170.

[0104] <Configuration of Load Transmission Mechanism 1F for Training Apparatus According to Sixth Embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1F for training apparatus according to a sixth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1F) will be described with reference to FIG. 22 . FIG. 22 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of load transmission mechanism 1F according to the sixth embodiment. Load transmission mechanism 1F is a modified version of load transmission mechanism 1B and a modified version of load transmission mechanism 1E, and is attached to a second training apparatus 201 for use to receive input from the user's foot. In the following description of load transmission mechanism 1F, only differences from load transmission mechanism 1B will be described. Points in common with load transmission mechanism 1B will be denoted by the same reference numerals as load transmission mechanism 1B in FIG. 22 and will not be described again.

[0105] The load transmission mechanism 1F has a configuration in which the first guide roll 26, the second guide roll 27, and the mounting bracket 141 are removed from the configuration of the load transmission mechanism 1B. The load transmission mechanism 1F also differs from the load transmission mechanism 1E in the configuration of the drive shaft 276, which is different from the drive shaft 4 of the load transmission mechanism 1E (see FIG. 21 ). The drive shaft 276 differs from the load transmission mechanism 1A in that a tip 276c protrudes from the same side as the sliding shaft 13 and a footrest 271 is connected to the tip 276c. The tension member 25 extends from the load application portion 230, is inserted through and wound around a pulley 285h, and is connected to the sliding shaft 13. The tension member 25 is connected to the sliding shaft 13 to transmit tension 19 and changes its extension direction in accordance with the axial and linear movement of the sliding shaft 13. The tension member 25 connected to the second end 13c of the sliding shaft portion 13 extends in accordance with the horizontal movement of the second end 13c, and changes the angle of the extension direction from the pulley 285h.

[0106] <Configuration of Load Transmission Mechanism 1G for Training Apparatus of Seventh Embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1G for training apparatus of the seventh embodiment (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1G) will be described with reference to Figures 23 and 24. Figure 23 is a front view for describing the internal configuration of load transmission mechanism 1G, and Figure 24 is a perspective view for describing the internal configuration of load transmission mechanism 1G. Load transmission mechanism 1G is a modified example of load transmission mechanism 1B, is attached to a second training apparatus 201, and receives input from the user's foot. In the following description of load transmission mechanism 1G, only differences from load transmission mechanism 1B will be described. Points in common with load transmission mechanism 1B will be denoted by the same reference numerals as load transmission mechanism 1B in Figures 23 and 24, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0107] The load transmission mechanism 1G differs from the load transmission mechanism 1B in the guide direction of the linear guide unit 20. The guide direction of the slider 20c of the linear guide unit 20 of the load transmission mechanism 1G is a direction vertical to the plane of the paper in Fig. 23 and a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the transmission chain 10. Therefore, the extension direction of the first guide 20a and second guide 20b of the linear guide unit 20 is a direction vertical to the plane of the paper in Fig. 23 and a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the transmission chain 10.

[0108] Because the connecting and fixing part 23 is fixed to the slider 20c, the connecting and fixing part 23 moves back and forth horizontally in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 23. The driving shaft 276 and the sliding shaft 13 move horizontally together with the connecting and fixing part 23. The horizontal movement of the driving shaft 276 is accompanied by a load because it pulls the tension member 25 connected to the sliding shaft 13. Furthermore, the rotational movement of the driving shaft 276 is accompanied by axial displacement of the sliding shaft 13, and further by a load because it pulls the tension member 25.

[0109] The upper surface 22a of the housing 22 is provided with an elongated hole 34 through which the driving shaft 276 protrudes to the outside. The driving shaft 276 moves back and forth inside the elongated hole 34 in the direction of arrow 276a. The upper surface 22a of the housing 22 is also provided with an elongated hole 33 through which the sliding shaft 13 protrudes to the outside. The sliding shaft 13 moves back and forth inside the elongated hole 33 in the direction of arrow 13d.

[0110] The rotational motion of the footrest 271 attached to the tip 276c of the drive shaft 276 is transmitted as rotational motion of the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d via the transmission chain 10. The rotational motion of the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d is transmitted to the orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c, which together with the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d constitutes the second rotational transmission unit 1M. Because a resistance force due to the load of the tension member 25 acts on the rotational motion of the orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c via the link mechanism 30 and the sliding shaft 13, a force acting on the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d to move it horizontally in the same direction as the rotational motion acts as a reaction to the rotational motion of the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d. The force acting on the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d to move it horizontally acts on the drive shaft 276 and the footrest 271 via the connecting and fixing part 23.

[0111] Therefore, when the user rotates the foot placed on the footrest 271 clockwise, the footrest 271 moves horizontally to the right as seen from the user, with a load. On the other hand, when the user rotates the foot placed on the footrest 271 counterclockwise, the footrest 271 moves horizontally to the left as seen from the user, with a load. Therefore, the user's leg moves horizontally in the same direction as the rotational movement of the footrest 271, and therefore the user's leg simultaneously undergoes rotational movement and lateral movement, allowing for a compound exercise using multiple leg muscles. Furthermore, by adding flexion and extension of the leg placed on the footrest 271, the user's leg can simultaneously perform three-directional movements: rotational movement, lateral movement, and flexion and extension, allowing for a compound exercise in three directions using a wide range of leg muscles.

[0112] <Configuration of Load Transmission Mechanism 1H for Training Apparatus of Eighth Embodiment> A load transmission mechanism 1H for a training apparatus of the eighth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as load transmission mechanism 1H) will be described with reference to FIG. 25 . FIG. 25 is a front view illustrating the internal configuration of load transmission mechanism 1H. Load transmission mechanism 1H is a modified version of load transmission mechanism 1A and a modified version of load transmission mechanism 1G. It is attached to the first training apparatus 100 and receives input from the user's hand. While load transmission mechanism 1G is primarily used for lower limb exercises and is attached to the second training apparatus 201, load transmission mechanism 1H is primarily used for upper limb exercises and is attached to the first training apparatus 100. Furthermore, compared to load transmission mechanism 1G, the load transmission mechanism 1H differs from the load transmission mechanism 1G in the configuration of the drive shaft 4, which is the drive shaft 276 of load transmission mechanism 1G (see FIGS. 23 and 24 ). The drive shaft 4 differs from the load transmission mechanism 1G in that its tip protrudes from the side opposite the sliding shaft 13 and is connected to the grip 11. In the following description of the load transmission mechanism 1H, only the differences from the load transmission mechanism 1A will be described, and the points in common with the load transmission mechanism 1A will be given the same reference numerals as the load transmission mechanism 1A in Figure 25 and will not be described again.

[0113] The load transmission mechanism 1H differs from the load transmission mechanism 1A in the guide direction of the linear guide unit 20. The guide direction of the slider 20c of the linear guide unit 20 of the load transmission mechanism 1H is a direction vertical to the plane of the paper in Fig. 25 and a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the transmission chain 10. Therefore, the extension direction of the first guide 20a and second guide 20b of the linear guide unit 20 is a direction vertical to the plane of the paper in Fig. 25 and a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the transmission chain 10.

[0114] The rotational motion of the grip portion 11 attached to the tip of the drive shaft portion 4 is transmitted as rotational motion of the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d via the transmission chain 10. The rotational motion of the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d is transmitted to the orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c that constitutes the second rotation transmission portion 1M. Because the rotational motion of the orthogonal shaft bevel gear 6c is subjected to a resistance force due to the load of the tension member 25 via the link mechanism portion 30 and the sliding shaft portion 13, a force that moves the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d horizontally in the same direction as the rotational motion acts on the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d as a reaction to the rotational motion of the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d. The force that moves the intermediate shaft bevel gear 5d horizontally acts on the drive shaft portion 4 and the grip portion 11 via the connecting and fixing portion 23.

[0115] Therefore, for example, the user stands up and faces forward in the initial state of the load transmission mechanism 1H (see FIGS. 8 and 9 ), and grips the grip portion 11 with the backs of their hands facing outward on either side of the first training apparatus 100. If the user rotates the grip portion 11 clockwise from this state as viewed from above, the grip portion 11 moves horizontally with a load in the same direction as the rotation, i.e., to the right as viewed from the user. On the other hand, if the user rotates the grip portion 11 counterclockwise from this state as viewed from above, the grip portion 11 moves horizontally with a load in the same direction as the rotation, i.e., to the left as viewed from the user.

[0116] Therefore, as the user's arm rotates, it moves horizontally in the same direction as the rotation of grip portion 11, and therefore rotation and lateral movement occur simultaneously in the user's arm, allowing for a compound exercise using multiple muscles in the arm. Furthermore, by adding a movement of pulling the arm downward, the user's arm can simultaneously perform three-way movements of rotation, lateral movement, and pulling down, allowing for a compound exercise in three directions using a wide range of muscles in the arm.

[0117] The present invention is not limited to the load transmission mechanisms for training equipment 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, and 1H according to the above-described embodiments, and the training equipment 100, 201 using the same, but can be embodied in various other modified or applied examples as long as they do not deviate from the gist of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0118] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1A Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to first embodiment 1B Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to second embodiment 1C Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to third embodiment 1D Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to fourth embodiment 1E Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to fifth embodiment 1F Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to sixth embodiment 1G Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to seventh embodiment 1H Load transmission mechanism for training equipment according to eighth embodiment 1K First rotation transmission part 1M Second rotation transmission part 4 Drive shaft part 4a Drive bearing 4b Drive bearing 4c Drive shaft sprocket 5 Intermediate shaft part 5a Intermediate bearing 5b Intermediate bearing 5c ​​Intermediate shaft sprocket 5d Intermediate shaft bevel gear 6 Orthogonal shaft part 6a Orthogonal bearing 6c Orthogonal shaft bevel gear 7 Connection part 8 Connection tube part 10 Transmission chain 11 Grip part 11a Grip bar 11b Frame portion 13 Sliding shaft portion 13a Sliding bearing 13b First end portion 13c Second end portion 13d Arrow 19 Tension 20 Straight guide portion 20a First guide 20b Second guide 20c Slider 20d Guide support base 22 Housing portion 22a Top surface 23 Connecting and fixing portion 23a First fixing piece 23b Second fixing piece 25 Tension member 26 First guide roll 26a Groove 27 Second guide roll 27a Groove 28 Feed roll 28a Groove 30 Link mechanism portion 30a First link 30b Second link 30c First joint 30d Second joint 33 Slot 34 Slot 100 First training device 100a First training device for both arms 100b First training apparatus for one arm 110 Seating portion 111 Seat 112 Seat support 120 Frame 121 Thigh support portion 130 Load applying portion 131 Weight 132 Weight guide support 133 Box portion 134 Movable pulley 135 Support base 136 Hole 140 Guide support 141 Mounting bracket 170 Direction changing guide wheel 170a Groove 181 Tensile member connection portion 201 Second training apparatus 210 Seating portion 211 Seat 212 Seat support 215 Backrest 220 Frame 221 Frame 222a Slide rail 222b Slide rail 225 Upper housing 230 Load applying portion 231 Shock absorbing material 232 Weight guide support233 Weight 240 Guide support 241 Impact absorbing material 250 Lifting and swinging member 251 Shaft 271 Footrest 272 Bearing 273 Third rotating shaft 274a Side plate 274b Side plate 275 Connecting plate 276 Main driving shaft 276a Arrow 276c Tip 277 Upper body 278 Lower body 279 Connecting portion 280 Tensile member 280a First tensioning member 280b Connecting portion 280c Second tensioning member 285h Pulley

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