Exercise device and method

Abstract

An exercise device 10 comprising a weighted baton 20, an arm supporting portion 40, a handle portion 45 and an arm band connector 100. The baton 20 has a distal weighted end 25 and a proximal support end 30. The arm supporting portion 40 is disposed at the support end 30 and has securing portion 43. The handle portion 45 is adjacent to the arm supporting portion 40. The arm band connector 100 is adapted for fixed attachment to an arm 4 of a user 3 of the exercise device 10. The arm supporting portion 40 is of sufficient longitudinal extent to provide support to the forearm 4 and adjacent wrist 7 of the user 3 to resist angular movement therebetween. The securing portion 43 is disposed for connection to the arm band connector 100. The handle portion 45 is disposed for gripping by the fingers 5 and thumb 6 of the user 3. The exercise device 10 is suitable for training and in the building and / or improving general body strength and in particular upper body strength. The device 10 is particularly useful in multidisciplinary and compound training.

Description

Exercise Device and MethodTechnical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an exercise device for use in training and in the building and / or improving of general body strength, particularly upper body strength. It also relates to methods of using the exercise device. The device is especially useful in multidisciplinary and compound training.

[0002] The device of the present invention is essentially an improvement on the invention that is disclosed in International Patent Publication WO 2022 / 201132 by the same applicant (hereinafter referred to as the “Earlier Invention”), the entirely of which is incorporated herein by reference in the present specification.

[0003] Throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise" or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.Background Art

[0004] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. It should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0005] Exercise devices for improving general fitness and in particular upper body fitness are well known in the art and cover a wide range of devices. These can include multicomponent weightlifting devices typically employing counter-balanced weights and pulley mechanisms as used in fitness centres.

[0006] Simpler devices such as weight training devices are also commonly used in the fitness industry. Devices such as barbells, dumbbells, weight balls (such as medicine balls, slam balls etc) may all be used in a variety of ways for an individual to exercise specific muscles or muscle groups and improve upper body strength.

[0007] Many of the weight devices are fixed weighted, particularly barbells, dumbbells and weight training balls, meaning they are one weight only, although able to be varied, and typically for a particular exercise regime.

[0008] Alternative devices include more cardio-based exercise devices such as battling ropes. Battling ropes can be provided as single or two rope combinations and are of sufficient innate weight that when used result in predominantly cardiobased exercise, although other benefits such as upper body strength are also improved. This is particularly so when performing High-Intensity Interval Training (HI IT). These ropes can be affixed to a wall or floor or can be held by a second person. The idea is to cause the ropes to move in an undulating fashion, the method improving both upper and lower body strength and improving cardio-vascular fitness.

[0009] However, the aforementioned devices, especially battling ropes when used for performing HIIT, have numerous disadvantages including, the need for ample room to use them as they require a large area to train, the need for fixing points to affix them at one end, they are hard to manoeuvre, are very noisy, require supervision, and are costly. Further, alternative devices for performing HIIT are not as effective compared to using battling ropes.

[0010] The Earlier Invention disclosed earlier prototypes that experimented with different arm supporting portions of an exercising device that could substitute for the use of battling ropes to perform HIIT, before arriving at an invention that is the subject of the present application.

[0011] Difficulty with the Earlier Invention was also encountered in achieving the right degree of flex of the device and ascertaining where the pivot point for such should be located.

[0012] The Earlier Invention included a very rudimentary arrangement for the provision of a weight at the distal end of the device.

[0013] It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide an improved exercise device that achieves the positive outcomes of improved body power, strength and fitness, preferably improved cardio-vascular health arising fromperforming HIIT, and at the same time overcome some of the disadvantages of existing exercise devices and the Earlier Invention.Summary of Invention

[0014] Certain embodiments of the invention relate to a first aspect providing an exercise device comprising: a baton having a distal weighted end and a proximal support end; the proximal support end comprising:(i) an arm supporting portion at a support end of the baton and having a securing portion; and(ii) a handle portion intermediate of the baton, and being axially aligned with:(a) the arm supporting portion at a proximal end of the handle portion; and(b) the distal weighted end at a distal end of the handle portion; wherein:(1) the arm supporting portion is of sufficient longitudinal extent to provide support to the forearm and wrist of the user;(2) the securing portion is disposed for attachment to an arm band connector for fixedly binding the arm of a user of the exercise device to the arm supporting portion; and(3) the handle portion is:(a) disposed relative to the arm supporting portion for gripping by the hand, fingers and thumb of the user; and(b) is contiguous with the arm supporting portion so that the arm, wrist and hand follow the contour of the arm supporting portion and the handle portion in locking engagement therewith to resist angular movement between the arm and wrist of the user;and wherein the distal weighted end is flexible relative to the arm supporting portion and the handle portion to establish a resistant force to the arms when torque is applied from rapid reciprocating hand movement.

[0015] Preferably, the flexing of the distal weighted end occurs about a pivot point disposed proximate to the distal end of the handle portion.

[0016] Preferably, the proximal support end is rigidified by a scaffolding relative to the distal weighted end to situate the pivot point.

[0017] Preferably, the scaffolding is formed by a denser core of material disposed centrally of the baton relative to an annular body of material circumscribing the scaffolding; and extends from the proximal support end to terminate towards the distal end of the handle portion to situate the pivot point at a location to mitigate bending of the hand of a user when gripping the baton in use.

[0018] Preferably, the proximal support end has an intermediate portion at the junction between the arm support portion and the handle portion, the securing portion being disposed proximate to the intermediate portion at an optimal distance therefrom to locate the pivot point of the wrist of the user at a position so that the arm, wrist and hand follow the contour of the intermediate portion, binding the same together when the fingers grip the handle portion to prevent angular movement therebetween during rapid reciprocating hand movement.

[0019] In this arrangement, the hand of a user of the exercise device may comfortably grip the baton with the wrist maintained in a locked position relative to the forearm to reduce stress on, and movement of, the wrist whilst moving the baton.

[0020] In one preferred embodiment, the securing portion comprises a recess within the arm supporting portion incorporating a glide buckle.

[0021] Preferably, the buckle is a tri-glide buckle having a pair of slots and a bar through which webbing that forms part of a webbing strap of the arm band connector may repose.

[0022] In this manner, the arm supporting portion may accommodate webbing of the arm connector to positively secure and bind the support end of the baton to the arm of a user.

[0023] Preferably, the distal weighted end of the baton comprises:(i) a distal weight assembly;(ii) a proximal bar portion contiguous and axially aligned with the handle portion; and(iii) a connector fixedly secured to the distal end of the proximal bar portion and fixedly or releasably secured to the distal weight assembly.

[0024] Preferably, the connector has an axial sleeve to secure the distal end of the proximal bar portion and an axial outer socket to interconnect with the distal weight assembly.

[0025] Preferably, the distal weight assembly comprises an end closure and one or more weights disposed within a recess therein.

[0026] Preferably, the length of the baton(s) is in the range of about 250mm to about 1200mm long; and more preferably to 900 mm long.

[0027] Preferably, the baton is cylindrical and has a diameter in the range from 25mm to 65mm.

[0028] Preferably, the baton less the detachable weight weighs in the range of about 500gm to 3 kg.

[0029] Preferably, the baton is formed of resiliently flexible material.

[0030] More preferably, the range of flexibility is within about 1 degree to 45 degrees from the pivot point relative to the longitudinal axis of the baton when at rest when torque is applied to the baton by rapid reciprocating hand movement about the elbow of the user.

[0031] Preferably, the baton is capable of moving in a plurality of directions and within the range of movement, and whereby the baton is capable of a substantially circular motion.

[0032] Preferably, the handle portion comprises a grip to facilitate clasping of the baton.

[0033] Preferably, the proximal bar portion has an axial spigot at the distal end to fit within the axial sleeve to form a spigot-in-sleeve connection therewith.

[0034] Preferably, the connector has an axial outer socket that interconnects with the weight assembly to fixedly locate the weight or weights with the proximal bar portion.

[0035] In one embodiment, the weight assembly is detachable and comprises a capsule containing the weight or weights therein disposed within the end closure and a plug end closing the open end of the end closure, encapsulating the capsule and weights therein, whereby:(i) the capsule is formed with a plurality of slots for accommodating one or more-disc weights forming the weight or weights; and(ii) the plug end being of complementary shape to the axial outer socket of the connector to fit and be positively and lockingly engaged therein.

[0036] In this embodiment, the plug end is formed to define one component of a bayonet fitting and the distal socket end is formed to define the other component of the bayonet fitting, whereby the two components when brought into mating axially forced engagement with each other can be rotated relative to the other and axially locked together to interconnect the weight assembly to the proximal bar portion.

[0037] Alternatively, the plug end and axial outer socket may be selected from a group of detachable couplings consisting of snap-lock mechanisms, male / female locking mechanisms, spring-loaded locking mechanisms, thread and screw mechanisms and push-press mechanisms to achieve the desired detachable and locking engagement.

[0038] Preferably, in this embodiment the weight assembly may be selected as one from a group of weights of corresponding design but of differing numbers to provide for differently weighted weight assemblies that can be individually substituted for each other to fit to the same proximal bar portion. These differing weights may be in the range from 25 grams to 1 kilogram per weight. More preferably, the weightsare provided as 100 gram, or 300 gram weights and may be combined in combinations of 1 to 4 to provide different net weights.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the end closure of the weight assembly fixedly interconnects with the axial outer socket of the connector to define a recess therein to fixedly retain the weight or weights within the recess.

[0040] In this embodiment, different variations of the weight assembly may be provided with different combinations of weights, whereby the end closure is formed with an axial spigot portion of commensurate axial extent impressing against the outer face of the outer weight, infilling any void otherwise created by omitting one or more weights within the recess.

[0041] Preferably, in this embodiment the connector is formed with a central protrusion within the axial outer socket defining a supporting face juxtaposed to the inner face of the inner weight to fixedly support the weight or weights within the recess.

[0042] In either embodiment, preferably, the baton comprises an inner cellular core formed of a pair of inner longitudinal core halves defining the proximal support end and the proximal bar portion of the distal weighted end; a scaffolding to rigidity the proximal support end; and an overlay encasement binding the inner cellular core together and to the proximal end of the securing arrangement to form an integrated portion to connect to the distal weight portion.

[0043] Preferably, the scaffolding is formed by a network of cavities within the inner cellular core having a lower density within the proximal support end.

[0044] Preferably, the scaffolding is defined by an inner longitudinal extending portion of solid material and an annular portion of smaller volume cavities within the proximal support end relative to the proximal stem portion having larger volume cavities disposed within it.

[0045] Preferably, the additional weights are colour coded for weight selection and ease of use.

[0046] Preferably, the exercise device is provided as a pair of batons.

[0047] Other embodiments of the invention relate to a second aspect providing for a method of constructing an exercise device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, including: forming an inner core of a baton by interlock! ng ly engaging two complementary core halves using axial locating pins and axial grooves aligning and forming a cell structure with transverse cavities therein; fitting an axial sleeve of a connector and a proximal end closure over an axial spigot and opposing axial spigot of the core halves respectively; compression molding the entire assembly using heating, binding the inner cellular core halves, the proximal end closure and connector together, forming an integrated proximal support end and proximal bar portion chemically bonded with the distal weight assembly.

[0048] Preferably, the method includes forming the inner core with a scaffolding having a denser core of material disposed centrally of the inner core relative to an annular body of material circumscribing the scaffolding; and extending the denser core from the proximal support end to terminate towards the distal end of a handle portion of the baton, thereby situating a pivot point at a location to mitigate bending of the hand of a user when gripping the baton in use when so formedBrief Description of the Drawings

[0049] The following drawings are referred to in the description of the various modes and embodiments and are only exemplary and hence cannot be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0050] Figure 1 - Illustrative view of use of standard battling ropes that forms part of the prior art.

[0051] Figure 2 - Illustrative view of the use of the batons of the invention performing exercises in lieu of the use of standard battling ropes, in accordance with a principal embodiment of the exercise device.

[0052] Figure 3 - Front perspective view of the baton showing it connected to the arm band connector and in locked position with the arm of a user in accordance with the principal embodiment of the invention.

[0053] Figure 4 - Bottom perspective view of the baton shown in Figure 3 and without the arm connector attached to the arm supporting portion.

[0054] Figure 5 - Bottom view of the baton shown in Figure 4;

[0055] Figure 6 - Side view of the baton shown in Figure 3 with the weight attached to the distal weighted end.

[0056] Figure 7 - Fragmentary side view of the end of the baton shown in Figure 6, showing the arm support portion with the securing portion disposed proximate to the intermediate portion relative to the proximal end closure of the proximal support end.

[0057] Figure 8 - Perspective views showing the scaffolding and cellular structure of the core halves common to all embodiments.

[0058] Figure 9 - Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lower core half of Figure 8.

[0059] Figure 10 - Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the baton of the principal embodiment taken through Section A-A of Figure 5.

[0060] Figure 11 - Cross-sectional views of the baton of the principal embodiment shown in Figure 6, whereinFigure 11 A is taken through Section A-A of the handle portion;Figure 11 B is taken through Section B-B of the arm supporting portion; and.Figure 11C is taken through Section C-C of the distal weighted end.

[0061] Figure 12 - Front perspective view of a single baton in accordance with the principal embodiment of the best mode having a detachable weight assembly showing the weight assembly removed from the distal end.

[0062] Figures 13A and 13B - Exploded views of the weight assembly showing its different components in its detachable embodiment, wherein:• Figure 13A is an upper front perspective view of the weight assembly; and• Figure 13B is an opposite lower rear perspective view of the weight assembly.

[0063] Figures 13C and 13D - Perspective views of the weight assembly fully assembled, wherein:• Figure 13C is an upper front perspective view; and• Figure 13D is an opposite lower rear perspective view.

[0064] Figures 13E to 13H - Fragmentary longitudinal cross-sectional views of the weighted end showing different combinations of weights and different stages of detachment / attachment and release and fixing of the weight assembly to the proximal bar portion, wherein:• Figure 13E is a four-disc weight arrangement of the weight assembly in attached and locking engagement with the connector socket;• Figure 13F is a three-disc weight arrangement of the weight assembly in attached and locking engagement with the connector socket:• Figure 13G is a one-disc weight arrangement of the weight assembly in attached and locking engagement with the connector socket; and• Figure 13H is a two-disc weight arrangement of the weight assembly in a detached and fully released state from the connector socket after unlocking.

[0065] Figure 14 - Perspective side view of a single baton in accordance with another embodiment of the best mode showing the distal weighted end of the exercise device having a fixed weight assembly to accommodate a heavier combination of weights.

[0066] Figure 15 - Perspective side view similar to Figure 11 without the overlay encasement.

[0067] Figure 16 - Longitudinal cross-sectional view taken through a vertical axial plane of Figure 15 showing the interlocking arrangement of the core halves and the configuration of the connector and weight assembly and looking into connector towards the inner web.

[0068] Figure 17 - Fragmentary longitudinal cross-sectional perspective view of the proximal bar portion and distal weighted end of Figure 14 looking into the axial outer socket.

[0069] Figure 18 - Perspective side view of a single baton in accordance with a further embodiment of the best mode showing the distal weighted end of the exercise device having a fixed weight assembly to accommodate a moderate combination of weights.

[0070] Figure 19- Longitudinal cross-sectional view taken through Section E-E of Figure 18 showing the interlocking arrangement of the core halves and the configuration of the connector and weight assembly with the 4-disc weight arrangement.

[0071] Figure 20 - Fragmentary longitudinal cross-sectional view of the proximal bar portion and the distal weighted end in accordance with the further embodiment of the best mode described with respect to Figures 18 and 19.

[0072] Figures 21 A to 21 C - Longitudinal cross-sectional views of varying embodiments of the connector and weight assembly showing different combinations of weights, wherein:• Figure 21 A shows the overmolded end closure with the axial spigot portion impressed against the outer face of a three-disc weight arrangement;• Figure 21 B shows the overmolded end closure with the axial spigot portion impressed against the outer face of a single-disc weight arrangement; and• Figure 21 C shows the overmolded end closure with the axial spigot portion impressed against the outer face of a two-disc weight arrangement.

[0073] Figure 22 - Exploded perspective view of the components to be formed together in the process of constructing the exercising device in accordance with the further embodiment of the best mode.Description of Best Mode and Embodiments

[0074] The following description is made with reference to a best mode for carrying out the invention and several specific embodiments of the best mode. It should be noted that in the description of different embodiments the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar features.

[0075] As noted above there are numerous types of exercise devices and in this context battling ropes may be the most analogous device to which use of the batons of the present disclosure can be compared and contrasted to perform HI IT.

[0076] Figure 1 illustrates a standard use of battling ropes 1 by a person 3. These ropes 1 can be either free standing, that is they are not attached to anything and can lie directly on the ground; or can be held by another person at the non-use end and due to their weight undulate with use. This can have disadvantages in that whilst these types of ropes are traditionally very heavy, they can in fact move during use and require a substantial amount of room to be used. Even where the ropes are secured to a floor or wall mounting, they pose a hazard to other persons. They are also very noisy in use and are cumbersome to work with and store.

[0077] In contrast the exercise device of the invention as described in the following embodiments can be used without the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0078] The best mode and preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 2 being used to perform similar exercises to those used with the battling ropes 1 shown in Figure 1 . In this instance the user 3 is using a pair of exercise devices 10 in accordance with a principal embodiment to undertake the same or a similar exercise as illustrated in Figure 1 . The use of one or more of the exercise devices 10 in a baton form alleviates the need for cumbersome ropes and overcomes the issues of space requirements and being a hazard to others. Further, the baton form of each exercise device 10 of the present embodiment allows for a far greater diversity of exercise regimes.

[0079] In the drawings, three types of batons are shown that are based upon the principles of the best mode and preferred embodiment of the invention:(i) Figures 3 to 13 show a baton formed with a detachable weight assembly comprising different weight combinations of four 100 gram weights;(ii) Figures 14 to 17 show a baton formed with a fixed weight assembly for housing higher weights comprising different weight combinations of three 300 gram weights; and(iii) Figures 18 to 21 show a baton formed with a fixed weight assembly for housing lower weights comprising different weight combinations of four 100 gram weights.

[0080] In each of the three types of batons, an exercise device 10 generally comprises a weighted baton 20, a distal weighted end 25, a proximal support end 30 and an arm band connector 100.

[0081] The proximal support end 30 that is near to a person using the exercise device 10 has an arm supporting portion 40 and handle portion 45. The handle portion 45 is intermediate of the baton 20 and is axially aligned with: (i) the arm supporting portion 40 at a proximal end 45a of the handle portion; and (ii) the distal weighted end 50 at a distal end 45b of the handle portion.

[0082] At the distal weighted end 25 there is located a proximal bar portion 26, a connector 28 and a distal weight assembly 50. The proximal bar portion 26 is contiguous and axially aligned with the handle portion 45. The connector 28 is fixedly secured to the distal end 26a of the proximal bar portion 26. In one embodiment it is releasably secured to the distal weight assembly 50; and in other embodiments it is fixedly secured to the distal weight assembly 50.

[0083] The connector 28 has an axial sleeve 28a to secure the distal end 26a of the proximal bar portion 26 and an axial outer socket 35 to interconnect with the distal weight assembly 50. The distal end 26a of the proximal bar portion 26 has an axial spigot 32a to fit within the axial sleeve 28a forming a spigot-in-socket connection between the two.

[0084] The baton 20 is formed of an inner cellular core 16 encapsulated within an an overlay encasement 14 as shown in Figures 11A to 11C. The core 16 as best shown in Figure 8, comprises a pair of inner longitudinal core halves 16a and 16b. These core halves 16 form the body of the proximal support end 30 and the proximal bar portion 26 of the distal weighted end 25 as an integral member.

[0085] The cellular core 16 comprises a lattice of cavities 22 of varying volume in a honeycomb type structure to reduce the weight of the baton 20 whilst maintaining its strength and define a scaffolding 48 to rigidity the proximal support end 30.

[0086] The scaffolding 48 is formed by a denser core of material disposed centrally of the baton 20 relative to an annular body of material circumscribing the scaffolding. This denser core of material extends from the proximal support end 30 to terminate towards the distal end of the handle portion 45 to situate a pivot point about which the distal end 26a of the proximal bar portion 26 may flex by relative movement of the distal weighted end 25. This pivot point is especially located to mitigate bending of the hand of a user when gripping the baton in use.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the scaffolding 48 is created by a series of cavities 22 of differing patterns to form of the annular body of material circumscribing a central axial portion of the inner cellular core 16. The pattern forms a lower density of cavities within the proximal support end 30 of the core 16 relative to the proximal bar portion 26 of the core. Further, the scaffolding 48 is defined by an inner longitudinal extending portion of solid material and an annular portion of smaller volume cavities 22 within the proximal support end relative to the proximal bar portion 26, which has larger volume cavities 22 disposed within it.

[0088] As shown in Figure 8, the core halves 16 are of complementary shape, the upper half 16a being provided with a series of transversely projecting locating pins 18a along the central axis thereof and the lower half 16b being provided with a series of corresponding axial grooves 18b to receive the same when brought together in interlocking engagement.

[0089] Further, the upper core half 16a is formed with a peripheral tongue 52b and the lower core half 16b is formed with a peripheral groove, to similarly mate when brought together in interlocking engagement.

[0090] The scaffolding 48 can also be created by other methods. In another embodiment, instead of, or additional to, the use of different density patterns of cavities or cells, the core is formed of different grades of material hardness to achieve a greater mass of material around the central core of the baton.

[0091] The distal weight assembly 50 comprises an end closure 44 and one or more weights in the form of weight discs 42. The axial outer socket 35 interconnects with the weight assembly 50 to fixedly locate the weight or weights with the proximal bar portion 26.

[0092] Different embodiments of the weight assembly 50 and connector 28 will be described later according to the different types of batons.

[0093] At the proximal support end 30, the arm supporting portion 40 has a proximal end closure 41 provided with an end cap 41a for fitting over an opposing axial spigot 32b and a securing portion 43 disposed for attachment to the arm band connector 100 by means of a webbing strap 110. The webbing strap 110 works as part of the arm band connector 100 in conjunction with the arm supporting portion 40 to fixedly bind the baton to an arm 4 of a user 3 of the exercise device 10 as shown in Figures2 and 11. The handle portion 45 is especially disposed for gripping by the hand, fingers 5 and thumb 6 of the user 3.

[0094] The arm supporting portion 40 is of sufficient longitudinal extent and is enlarged relative to the handle portion 45 to provide support to the arm 4 and adjacent wrist 7 of the user 3. The handle portion 45 is contiguous with the arm supporting portion 40 and has a tapered intermediate portion 47, or in an alternative embodiment a stepped portion, to gradually reduce the peripheral surface of the baton from the arm supporting portion 40 to the handle portion 45. This allows the arm, wrist and hand to follow the contour of the arm supporting portion 40 and the handle portion 45 in locking engagement therewith to resist angular movement between the arm and wrist of the user, which further supports the wrist 7 of the user3 in position, mitigating the stress imposed on the wrist by holding the baton 20.

[0095] In this arrangement, the hand of a user 3 of the exercise device 10 may comfortably grip the baton 20 with the wrist 7 maintained in a locked position relative to the arm 4 to reduce stress on the wrist whilst moving the baton.

[0096] The securing portion 43 comprises a recess 48 within the arm supporting portion 40 incorporating a glide buckle 49. The buckle 49 is of a tri-glide buckle type having a pair of slots 49A and a bar 49B through which the webbing 120 of the webbing strap 110 is fed.

[0097] The arm band connector 100 comprises the webbing strap 110 and a forearm and wrist brace 130 moulded to conform to the general shape of a user’s outer forearm adjoining the wrist. The webbing 120 that forms part of the webbing strap 110 has a fastener 140 provided at its terminal ends to positively engage and bind the brace 130 to the outer forearm 4 and wrist of the user 3.

[0098] The fastener 140 in the present embodiment is of the snap lock time and includes hook and loop fasteners of the VelcroTMtype for tightening and adjustment.

[0099] Moreover, the webbing 120 is adapted to feed through the buckle 49 and the terminal ends of the strap are fastened to positively secure and bind the support end of the baton to the inner forearm wrist of the user by tightening the fastener against the brace 130 on the outer forearm 4 and wrist 7 of a user 3, clamping the forearm and wrist in a holding position for the fingers 5 and thumb 6 of the user to grasp the handle portion 45 of the baton 20.

[0100] Thus, the securing portion 43 is disposed proximate to the intermediate portion 47 at an optimal distance therefrom to locate the pivot point of the wrist of the user at a position so that the arm, wrist and hand follow the contour of the intermediate portion. This allows the webbing to bind the same together when the fingers grip the handle portion to prevent angular movement therebetween during rapid reciprocating hand movement of the user.

[0101] In the present embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the distal weight assembly 50 is detachable and comprises a capsule 48 containing the weight or weights therein in the form of weight-discs 42. The capsule 48 is formed in two halves 48a and 48b and is closed at a distal end 48c and open at a proximal end 48d to fit different combinations of weight-discs 42 therein.

[0102] The capsule 48 has fitted thereto at its open end 48d a plug end 34 having a hollow stem 52 projecting outwardly to be received within the axial outer socket35 of the connector 38 and a circumferential flange 55 for fitting over the proximal end 48d of the capsule 48. The circumferential flange 55 has a plurality of transverse apertures 55a and the outer surface has a corresponding series of clips 56, so that plug end 34 may be positively clipped into position to close the two halves of the capsule together.

[0103] The end closure 44 is then overmolded, bonding to the capsule 48 and the circumferential flange 55 of the plug end 34, encapsulating the capsule 48 and weight or weights therein.

[0104] The capsule 48 is formed with a plurality of slots 46 for accommodating one or more-disc weights 42 therein as shown in Figures 9A, 9B and 9E to 9H.

[0105] The hollow stem 52 of the plug end 34 is of complementary shape to the axial outer socket 35 of the connector to fit and be positively and lockingly engaged therein.

[0106] In this arrangement, the plug end 34 has an inner radial flange 52a and is formed to define an aperture 52b that in combination constitute one component of a bayonet fitting and the axial outer socket 35 is formed to define the other component of the bayonet fitting.

[0107] The axial outer socket 35 is formed with an inner boss 56, a protruding stem 54 of complementary cross sectional shape to the aperture 52b, a sliding plate 59 and a biasing spring 60 to outwardly bias the sliding plate 59 axially along the stem 54 so that when the two components of the bayonet fitting are brought into mating axially forced engagement with each other one can be rotated relative to the other and axially locked together. In this manner, the weight assembly 50 is interconnected to the proximal bar portion 26 to form an integral baton with a weighted end.

[0108] In other embodiments, the plug end and axial outer socket can be of a variety of different types of engagement means selected from a group of detachable couplings consisting of snap-lock, male / female locking, spring-loaded locking, thread and screw and push-press mechanisms to achieve the desired detachable and locking engagement.

[0109] In one embodiment the weight assembly 50 can be made of the same material as the baton 20 or in an alternative embodiment as a metal weight or even a combination of metal and elastomeric I plastic combination.

[0110] In the present embodiment, the detachable weight 50 is selected as one from a group of weights of corresponding design but of differing numbers to provide for differently weighted weight assemblies that can be individually substituted for each other to fit to the same proximal bar portion. These differing weights are in the range from around 25 to 500 grams per weight. In one embodiment, the lower range is from 25 to 100 grams, which are suitable for use by children. In other embodiments, the weights are provided as 100 gram or 300 gram weights, which are more appropriate for use by adult users and can be combined in combinations of 1 to 4 to provide different net weights.

[0111] In the present embodiment the weight assemblies 50 are provided as colour coded weights for ease of identification and use.

[0112] In alternative embodiments of the best mode, the second and third types of baton with a fixed weight assembly 50’, 50” for housing higher weights and moderate weights, are described with reference to Figures 14 to 17 and Figures 18 to 21 respectively.

[0113] In these alternative embodiments, the end closure 44’, 44” of the weight assembly 50’, 50’ is overmolded to fixedly interconnect directly with the axial outer socket 35’, 35” of the connector 28’, 28” to define a recess therein to fixedly retain the weight or weights within the recess. These weights are again in the form of weight-discs 42’, 42”, but instead of being disposed in a capsule, are accommodated within the axial outer socket 35’, 35” of the connector 28’, 28”, directly.

[0114] In these embodiments, different variations of the weight assembly 50’, 50” are provided with different combinations of weights. The end closure 44’, 44” is formed with an axial spigot portion 44a, 44b or 44c of commensurate axial extent to impress against the outer face 42a of the outer weight, infilling any void otherwise created by omitting one or more weights within the recess.

[0115] To accommodate higher weights and moderate weights the two types of batons 20’, 20” with fixed weight assemblies 50’, 50” differ in that the embodiment of the second type of baton 20’ for housing higher weights of, for example, 300 grams each, has a connector 28’ that is flared to accommodate larger diameter weight discs. Thus, the axial outer socket 35’ is of a larger diameter than the diameter of the proximal bar portion 26’, whereby the inner end of the axial outer socket 35’ defines an inner step 35a to engage and support the peripheral edge of the inner face 42b’ of the inner weight disc in fixed position.

[0116] In the case of the embodiment of the third type of baton 20” for housing moderate weights of, for example, 100 grams each, the connector 28” is not flared and thus the axial outer socket 35” is of commensurate diameter to the external diameter of the proximal bar portion 26”. Consequently, there is of lesser radial extent to provide a smaller inner step 35a”.

[0117] This is best illustrated in Figures 10 and 11A to 11C, whereby in this embodiment, the connector 28” is formed with a central protrusion 57 within the axial outer socket 35 defining a supporting face 57a juxtaposed to the inner face 42b of the inner weight to fixedly support the weight or weights within the recess, in conjunction with the smaller inner step 35”

[0118] The method of forming the baton 20 of the exercise device 10 will be further described with respect to making the third type of baton 20” with a fixed weight assembly 50’, 50” for housing moderate weights.

[0119] As shown in Figure 23, the main components forming the baton are brought together, namely the core halves 16a and 16b of the core 16, the securing portion 43, the distal weight assembly 50, the proximal end closure 41 and end cap 41a, and the overlay encasement 14.

[0120] The method then includes:(i) Interlockingly engaging the core halves 16a and 16b using the locating pins 18a and axial grooves 18b, aligning and forming a cell structure with transverse cavities as shown in Figures 8 and 11 ;(ii) fitting the axial sleeve 28a of the connector 28 and the proximal end closure 41 over the axial spigot 32a and opposing axial spigot 32b of the core halves 16 respectively;(iii) overmolding the two halves of the overlay encasement 14 over the structure; and(iv) compression molding the entire assembly using heating, binding the inner cellular core halves 16 and the proximal end closure 41 and connector 28 together to form an integrated proximal support end 30 and proximal bar portion 26 chemically bonded with the distal weight assembly.

[0121] The method also includes: forming the inner core with the scaffolding 48 having a denser core of material disposed centrally of the inner core 16 relative to the annular body of material circumscribing the scaffolding; and extending the denser core from the proximal support end 30 to terminate towards the distal end of the handle portion 45 of the baton 20, thereby situating a pivot point at a location to mitigate bending of the hand of a user when gripping the baton in use after being so formed

[0122] By virtue of this construction incorporating the scaffolding 48, the distal weighted end 25 is flexible relative to the arm supporting portion 40 and the handle portion 45 to establish a resistant force to the arms when torque is applied from rapid reciprocating hand movement. Consequently, the flexing of the distal weighted end occurs about a pivot point 58 disposed proximate to the distal end 45b of the handle portion 45.

[0123] The baton 20 is made of a resiliently flexible polymeric material. Compression molding with the application of heat creates a chemical bond between the polymeric material and the metal components of the baton. It accommodates bonding of uneven wall surfaces, which may not be able to be achieved using injection molding techniques.

[0124] Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber such as EPDM with a Shore rating of 65 + / - 5 is used in one embodiment as the polymeric material. Alternative materials include blended thermoplastic polymers including combinations such as nylon + polyurethane + / - Seblex (7848 which is a low flow, oil extended thermoplastic styrene rubber modified polypropylene).

[0125] As already noted, the additional weights can also be made from these same materials or suitable metals or a composite metal / elastomeric arrangement.The baton 20 is provided in a variety of lengths and weights which are designed for use by different users. As examples a standard length for use by men and women would be, but not limited to, 480 mm and for children 300 mm. The lengths are not limited to the previously mentioned lengths and can extend from about 300 mm to about 900 mm or 1200 mm. The latter length being particularly suitable for use by professional athletes or for use in specific exercise regimes such as martial arts (samurai exercises). Equally, the baton 20 is provided in a range of diameters again adapted for various exercise routines and users. Example diameter ranges are from 25 mm to 60 mm.

[0126] While various embodiments have been described with reference to specific example embodiments, it will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the broader scope of the technology. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, show byway of illustration, and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. The embodiments illustrated are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosed herein. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This Description of Embodiments, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of various embodiments is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0127] The embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein, individually and / or collectively, by the term “invention" merely for convenience andwithout intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

[0128] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described in the embodiments could be adapted to other similar exercise devices.

Claims

Claims1 . An exercise device comprising: a baton having a distal weighted end and a proximal support end; the proximal support end comprising:(i) an arm supporting portion at a support end of the baton and having a securing portion; and(ii) a handle portion intermediate of the baton, and being axially aligned with: a. the arm supporting portion at a proximal end of the handle portion: and b. the distal weighted end at a distal end of the handle portion; wherein:(i) the arm supporting portion is of sufficient longitudinal extent to provide support to the forearm and wrist of the user;(ii) the securing portion is disposed for attachment to an arm band connector for fixed attachment to an arm of a user of the exercise device; and(iii) the handle portion is: a. disposed relative to the arm supporting portion for gripping by the hand, fingers and thumb of the user; and b. is contiguous with the arm supporting portion so that the arm, wrist and hand follow the contour of the arm supporting portion and the handle portion in locking engagement therewith to resist angular movement between the arm and wrist of the user;and wherein the distal weighted end is flexible relative to the arm supporting portion and the handle portion to establish a resistant force to the arms when torque is applied from rapid reciprocating hand movement.

2. An exercise device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the flexing of the distal weighted end occurs about a pivot point disposed proximate to the distal end of the handle portion.

3. An exercise device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the proximal support end is rigidified by a scaffolding relative to the distal weighted end to situate the pivot point.

4. An exercise device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the scaffolding is formed by a denser core of material disposed centrally of the baton relative to an annular body of material circumscribing the scaffolding; and extends from the proximal support end to terminate towards the distal end of the handle portion to situate the pivot point at a location to mitigate bending of the hand of a user when gripping the baton in use.

5. An exercise device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proximal support end has an intermediate portion at the junction between the arm support portion and the handle portion, the securing portion being disposed proximate to the intermediate portion at an optimal distance therefrom to locate the pivot point of the wrist of the user at a position so that the arm, wrist and hand follow the contour of the intermediate portion, binding the same together when the fingers grip the handle portion to prevent angular movement therebetween during rapid reciprocating hand movement.

6. An exercise device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight assembly is detachable and comprises a capsule containing the weight or weights therein disposed within the end closure and a plug end closing the open end of the end closure, encapsulating the capsule and weights therein, whereby:A) the capsule is formed with a plurality of slots for accommodating one or more-disc weights forming the weight or weights; andB) the plug end being of complementary shape to the axial outer socket of the connector to fit and be positively and lockingly engaged therein.

7. An exercise device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the plug end is formed to define one component of a bayonet fitting and the distal socket end is formed to define the other component of the bayonet fitting, whereby the two components when brought into mating axially forced engagement with each other can be rotated relative to the other and axially locked together to interconnect the weight assembly to the proximal bar portion.

8. An exercise device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the end closure of the weight assembly fixedly interconnects with the axial outer socket of the connector to define a recess therein to fixedly retain the weight or weights within the recess.

9. An exercise device as claimed in claim 9, wherein different variations of the weight assembly may be provided with different combinations of weights, whereby the end closure is formed with an axial spigot portion of commensurate axial extent impressing against the outer face of the outer weight, infilling any void otherwise created by omitting one or more weights within the recess.

10. An exercise device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the baton comprises an inner cellular core formed of a pair of inner longitudinal core halves defining the proximal support end and the proximal bar portion of the distal weighted end; and an overlay encasement binding the inner cellular core together and to the proximal end of the securing arrangement to form an integrated portion to connect to the distal weight portion.

11. An exercise device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, as dependent on claim 3 or 4, wherein the scaffolding is formed by a pattern or network of cavities within the inner cellular core having a lower density within the proximal support end.

12. An exercising device as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the scaffolding is defined by an inner longitudinal extending portion of solid material and an annularportion of smaller volume cavities within the proximal support end relative to the proximal stem portion having larger volume cavities disposed within it.

13. A method of constructing an exercise device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, including: forming an inner core of a baton by interlockingly engaging two complementary core halves using axial locating pins and axial grooves aligning and forming a cell structure with transverse cavities therein; fitting an axial sleeve of a connector and a proximal end closure over an axial spigot and opposing axial spigot of the core halves respectively; compression molding the entire assembly using heating, binding the inner cellular core halves, the proximal end closure and connector together, forming an integrated proximal support end and proximal bar portion chemically bonded with the distal weight assembly.

14. A method as claimed in claim 13, including forming the inner core with a scaffolding having a denser core of material disposed centrally of the inner core relative to an annular body of material circumscribing the scaffolding; and extending the denser core from the proximal support end to terminate towards the distal end of a handle portion of the baton, thereby situating a pivot point at a location to mitigate bending of the hand of a user when gripping the baton in use after being so formed.

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