Device to facilitate cervical exercises

Abstract

A device to help connecting an anchor strap during cervical exercises, such as neck flexion, extension, rotation and tilting, includes a head band adapted to secure around head of a user. The device includes an upper head piece coupled to the head band. The upper head piece includes at least one strap covering at least a portion of the head of the user. The device includes a chin band coupled to lateral sides of the head band, and configured to extend beneath chin of the user to secure the device on the head of the user. A plurality of attachment members configured circumferentially around the head band. Each of the plurality of attachment members are adapted to receive at least one anchor strap to facilitate the cervical exercises.

Description

DEVICE TO FACILITATE CERVICAL EXERCISESField of Invention

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of exercise equipment. Specifically, it pertains to a device designed to facilitate cervical exercises to strengthen, condition, and tone muscles of the head and neck of a user. Specifically, the device facilitates performing broad ranges of cervical (or neck) exercises, such as neck flexion, extension, rotation of the neck left and right, tilting of the neck left and right and shearing of the neck left and right.Summary

[0002] A resistance band head strap is often used to add resistance to neck exercises, such as neck flexion, extension, rotation, shearing or tilting. The strap is typically worn around the head with the resistance band attached to it, providing resistance as you move your head against the band's tension. This helps strengthen the muscles of the neck and improve neck stability.

[0003] Conventional devices for neck exercises include adjustable straps where the straps include clamping rings, such as metal D-rings, for attaching chains with weights or on cable machines. The conventional devices are capable of using the user’s head as a lever for movement during the exercises, but in a limited way, that doesn’t allow the user to access and perform the motions needed to train the neck in the correct context in which it functions through movement. Additionally, use of metal D-rings can pose a safety hazard to the user if the contraption dislodges and causes impact with the user’ s cranium and other vulnerable areas of the face, head, or neck.

[0004] Further, the known devices for neck exercises include a limited number of attachment members, such as at the most located on two opposite sides, which restricts the range of neck exercises that can be performed by the user. Also, when using the attachment members for coupling with the chains with weights or on cable machines, the coupled connector strap, chains, or cables cannot be wrapped around the head to do a wider range of exercises as they tend to slip. Thus, the known devices lack adequate support to enable a user to have greater maneuverability and range of exercise positions to properly get the cranium in the desired angles.

[0005] In view of the above limitations of the known devices for neck exercises, there is a need for an improved device designed to facilitate cervical exercises that enables a user to have greater maneuverability and range of exercise positions to properly get the cranium in the desired angles. The present invention provides a device to strengthen, condition, and tone muscles of the head and neck of the user.

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a device that can facilitate performing a broad range of neck exercises, such as neck flexion, extension, rotation of the neck left and right, tilting of the neck left, and right and shearing of the neck left and right.

[0007] The device of the present invention provides additional attachment members in front, back, left and right side of the head that can enable a greater variety of exercises. Further, an additional two vertical attachment members are provided at the back of the head to enable the users to perform exercises with different angles and directions of resistance to target different muscles or muscle groups in the neck.

[0008] The device of the present invention includes a head band that can help stabili ze the head, and prevent excessive movement, thereby minimizing the possibility of strain or overextension, possibility of injury during use, and maximize benefits that the user can gain from using the device.

[0009] The one or more embodiments of the device is configured to meet different objectives, such as, to provide a plurality of attachment members to anchor connecting straps (also referred as “anchor straps” hereinafter) such as resistance band, cable and the like, and to perform a broader range of neck exercises such as but not limited to neck flexion, neck extension, neck rotation, and neck tilting exercises.

[0010] The device of the present invention prevents slipping of the resistance band or cable and enhances the overall stability, comfort, and effectiveness of neck exercises.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the disclosed device includes a head band adapted to secure around head of a user. The device includes an upper head piece coupled to the head band. The upper head piece includes at least one strap covering at least a portion of the head of the user. Further, the device includes a chin band coupled to lateral sides of the head band, and configured to extend beneath chin of the user to secure the device on the head of the user. Furthermore, the device includes a plurality of attachment members configured circumferentially around the head band. Each of the plurality ofattachment members are adapted to receive at least one anchor strap to facilitate the cervical exercises.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the head band may include a first coupling end, and a second coupling end detachably coupled to the first coupling end to enable the head band to be secured around the head of the user.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the first coupling end and the second coupling end may be detachably coupled to each other through a first set of hook and loop fasteners.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the device may be adapted to perform the cervical exercises comprising any of a neck rotation exercise, a neck extension exercise, a neck flexion exercise, a neck tilting exercise, a neck shearing exercise, and a head rotation exercise.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of attachment members may include a first attachment member and a second attachment member. The first attachment member may be configured at a first lateral end of the head band. The second attachment member may be configured at a second lateral end, opposite to the first lateral end of the head band.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of attachment members may include a third attachment member configured at a frontal end of the head band. The third attachment member may be adapted to secure the at least one anchor strap during the neck rotation exercise.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of attachment members may include a first posterior attachment member configured at a posterior end of the head band. The first posterior attachment member may be adapted to secure the at least one anchor strap to enable the user to perform the neck flexion exercise and the neck extension exercise. The plurality of attachment members may include a second posterior attachment member configured at the posterior end of the head band. The second posterior attachment member may be adapted to secure a rope to enable the user to hold the rope and keep the device secured while performing the cervical exercises.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the chin band may include a first end, and a second end detachably coupled to the first end through a second set of hook and loop fasteners.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the upper head piece may include a cushioning layer beneath the at least one strap.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the at least one strap may include a pair of securing loops configured at a center of the at least one strap. The pair of securing loops may cross each other to form a cross-shaped structure.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the device may be operatively coupled to a resistance assembly configured to regulate resistance for the cervical exercises.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the at least one anchor strap may include a first end configured to be attached to any one of the first attachment member and the second attachment, and a second end, located opposite to the first end, may be adapted to be crossed over the at least one strap of the upper head piece and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck tilting exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the first end of the at least one anchor strap may be attached with the first posterior attachment member, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap may be routed across a midline region of the head of the user and may be attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck extension exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the first end of the at least one anchor strap may be attached with any one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap may be crossed circumferentially towards the second lateral end of the head band and may be attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck rotation exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the first end of the at least one anchor strap may be attached to the third attachment member configured at the frontal end of the head band, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap may be routed across the midline region of the head towards a rear side of the device and may be attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance to the neck flexion exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the first end of the at least one anchor strap may be attached to the third attachment member configured at the frontal end of the head band, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap may be crossed circumferentially over the head band and may be attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the head rotation exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, at least one of the plurality of attachment members may be arranged orthogonal to a circumferential direction of the head band.

[0028] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of attachment members may be an elastic loop.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of attachment members can be made of textile-based material. The textile-based material may be soft, malleable, and durable.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the textile-based material may be selected from a group consisting of a nylon, a polyester, a polypropylene, and a terylene.

[0031] As can be appreciated, the placement and position of the plurality of attachment members may help to perform a wide variety of cervical exercises, such as neck flexion, neck extension, neck rotation and tilting exercises. Further, replacement of metal ring of conventional neck exerciser with the textile-based elastic loop can eliminate discomfort or irritation caused by the metal ring, especially during longer workout sessions or exercises involving repetitive movements. Further, the first and second coupling end of the head band may provide adjustability allowing users to customize the fit of the head band more easily. This adjustability can accommodate different head sizes and preferences.

[0032] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0033] FIG. 1 A illustrates an exemplary front view of the proposed device designed to facilitate cervical exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary rear view of the device of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIGs. 1C and ID respectively illustrate exemplary left and right-side view of the proposed device of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. IE illustrates an exemplary top view of the proposed device of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of a rope to enable securing the device 100 on the user’s head while doing neck extension exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary view of at least one anchor strap attached to a plurality of attachment members of the device of FIG. 1 A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure

[0039] FIG. 4A illustrates the device of FIG. 1A being used for neck tilting exercise where an anchor strap or resistance band is fixed to one of the lateral attachment member and routed over at least one strap toward the other lateral side to provide resistance to the tilting exercise, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 4B illustrates the device of FIG. 1A being used for neck extension exercise, where an anchor strap or resistance band is fixed to a first posterior attachment member and routed toward a front side to provide resistance to the neck extension exercise, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 4C illustrates the device of FIG. 1A being used for neck flexion exercise where an anchor strap or resistance band is fixed to a third attachment member and routed toward a rear side to provide resistance to the neck flexion exercise, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 4D illustrates the device of FIG. 1 A being used for neck rotation exercise where an anchor strap or resistance band is fixed to one of the first attachment member and the second attachment member, and routed over a head band around the head circumference toward the other side to provide resistance to the neck rotation exercise, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIGs. 4E-4F illustrated the device of FIG. 1 A being used for left and right side head rotation exercises, where an anchor strap or resistance band is fixed to a third attachment member, and routed over a head band around the head circumference toward the other side to provide resistance to the head rotation exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.Detailed Description

[0044] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the disclosure herein.

[0045] Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited herein. As used in the description herein, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0046] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention herein.

[0047] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used herein is not defined, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0048] Existing devices for neck exercises include adjustable straps or straps include clamping rings, such as D-rings, for attaching chains with weights or on cable machines. The conventional devices are capable of using the user’s head as a lever for movement of the exercises, although in a limited way that doesn’t allow the user to access and perform the motions needed to train the neck in the correct context in which it functions through movement, i.e. for the user to be able to perform motions that replicate and load the cranium and neck during walk and running. Further, some of the existing devices for neck exercises have limited attachment points or members to anchor connecting straps such as a resistance band, or cable for neck exercises. The lack of multiple attachment points / members can limit the variety of exercises that can be performed using the device. Certain neck exercises may require differentangles or directions of resistance, which may not be achievable with only a few attachment members or points.

[0049] The proposed device overcomes the issues associated with the existing devices by providing a more versatile and functional design that enables a wider range of natural neck movements under load, replicating the dynamic conditions experienced during activities such as walking and running. Unlike conventional devices that rely on limited clamping mechanisms like D-rings and offer only basic leverage for movement, the proposed device incorporates a plurality of strategically positioned attachment members around the circumference of a head band of the device. These multiple attachment members allow for resistance to be applied from various angles and directions, thereby facilitating a broader spectrum of cervical (or neck) exercises that target different muscle groups with greater biomechanical accuracy. Additionally, the device includes a mechanism to secure a rope, enabling the user to manually stabilize or assist the apparatus during motion, further enhancing control and alignment during training. Also, an adjustable chin band ensures a secure and personalized fit, which, combined with the improved attachment members, significantly expands the functional capabilities of the device compared to existing solutions.

[0050] Referring now to FIGs. 1 A to IE, where exemplary views of an embodiment of the proposed device 100 designed to facilitate cervical exercises are disclosed. The device 100 can be adapted to perform the cervical exercises comprising any of but not limited to: a neck rotation exercise, a neck extension exercise, a neck flexion exercise, a neck tilting exercise, a neck shearing exercise, and a head rotation exercise. The disclosed device 100 includes a head band 102 adapted to surround the wearer's head. The head band 102 can include a first coupling end 102a and a second coupling end 102b. The first coupling end 102a can be detachably coupled with the second coupling end 102b to enable the head band 102 to be secured around the head of the user as shown in FIGs. IB and ID. The first coupling end 102a and the second coupling end 102b can be detachably coupled to each other through a first set of hook and loop fasteners (not shown), provided at the respective coupling ends. The coupling of the first and second coupling ends 102a, 102b of the head band 102 can be adjusted according to shape and size of the head of the user. In an embodiment, the second coupling end 102b can have an adjustable loop 118 (Refer FIG. IB) that can be configured to adjust fitting of the head band 102 over the user’s head. The first set of hook and loop fasteners can include a loop fastenerconfigured over the first coupling end 102a, and a hook configured over the second coupling end 102b.

[0051] In an embodiment, the device 100 includes an upper head piece 104 coupled to the head band 102. The upper head piece 104 includes at least one strap 104a covering at least a portion of the head of the user as shown in FIG. 1C to IE. The at least one strap 104a can include a pair of securing loops 112 (Refer FIG. IE) configured at a center of the at least one strap 104a. The pair of securing loops 112 can cross each other to form a cross-shaped structure. The strap 104a can be attached and extended between a first lateral end (interchangeably referred as “right lateral end” herein) and a second lateral end (interchangeably referred as “left lateral end” herein) of the head band 102.

[0052] In an embodiment, the device 100 further includes an adjustable chin band 106 coupled to the lateral sides of the head band 102, and configured to extend beneath chin of the user to secure the device 100 on the head of the user. The chin band 106 can have a first end 106a and a second end 106b as shown in FIGs. 1C and ID. The second end 106b can be detachably coupled to the first end 106a through a second set of hook and loop fasteners 114, where the second set of hook and loop fasteners 114 can include a Velcro hook 114a configured at the first end 106a, and a loop fastener 114b configured at the second end 106b. The Velcro hook 114a can engage with the loop fastener 114b to securely position the chin of the user, while performing neck and head exercises. The chin strap 106 can be tightened so as to help secure the upper head piece 104 on the user's head for exercise, and the chin band 106 can be secured with the second set of hook and loop fasteners. Further, the adjustable chin band 106 can also include a padded / cushioning layer beneath at least a portion of the chin band 106, enable proper positioning and tightly securing the chin of the user.

[0053] In addition, the device 100 includes a plurality of attachment members 108 (collectively referred as “attachment members 108” hereinafter) configured circumferentially around the head band 102. Each of the plurality of attachment members 108 are adapted to receive at least one anchor strap 300 (Refer FIG. 3) to facilitate the cervical exercises. In some embodiments, the attachment members 108 can be configured in a horizontal orientation over the circumference of the head band 102. Referring to FIGs. 1A-1B, the attachment members 108 can include lateral attachments such as a first attachment member 108a at the first lateral end, and a second attachment member 108b at the second lateral end. The attachment members108 can include a third attachment member 108c at the frontal end of the head band 102 (as shown in FIG. 1A). Further, as shown in FIGs. lB & 1C, the attachment members 108 can include a first posterior attachment member 108d and a second posterior attachment member 108e, configured at the posterior end of the head strap. The first posterior attachment member 108d can facilitate attachment of the resistance band or the anchor strap 300 that enables the user to perform neck flexion and neck extension motions using the anchor strap 300. The second posterior attachment member 108e can facilitate attachment of a rope 200 to enable securing the device 100 on the user’s head while doing neck extension exercises, thereby preventing slipping-off the device 100 during motions as shown in FIG. 2. In an embodiment, at least one of the plurality of attachment members 108 such as the third attachment member 108c can be arranged orthogonal to a circumferential direction of the head band 102.

[0054] In an embodiment, the upper head piece 104 can include a cushioning layer nested beneath the at least one strap 104a. The cushioning layer can facilitate proper positioning top and back of the head in the device 100. A width of the cushioning layer can be less than the width of the at least one strap 104a. The cushioning layer can be made of material selected from but not limited to foams or plastic foams made of polyethylene, polypropylene, flexible polyurethane, and the like.

[0055] Further, the chin strap can be made of textile based material including but not limited to a nylon, a polyester, a polypropylene, and a terylene. The attachment members 108 can be made of textile material that is soft, malleable, and durable. The attachment members 108 can be made of textile based material including but not limited to a nylon, a polyster, a polypropylene, and a terylene.

[0056] In an application, the device 100 can include the rope 200 (separate from the anchor strap) as shown in FIG. 3B. The incorporation of the rope 200 with the device 100 can help in keeping the device 100 secure while doing exercises, as the rope 200 can sit on either side of the users shoulder, and the user can grab the rope 200 with his hands to avoid pull or shift out of position of the rope 200.

[0001] In an embodiment, the device 100 can be operatively coupled to a resistance assembly (not shown) configured to regulate resistance for the cervical exercises. The resistance assembly can include at least one weight stack (simply referred as “weight stack” hereinafter). In some embodiments, the weight stack can include a plurality of weight plates,and a guide rod to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates without tilting or wobbling. The weight plates can be stacked vertically and can have a central hole that slides onto the guiding rod. This allows the weight plates to move up and down as the resistance is adjusted. The guide rod can be cylindrical shaft that can run parallel to the weight stack and allow the weight plates to slide up and down smoothly. The guide rod can be made from metal and can be designed to be durable and resistant to bending or warping. In some embodiments, the weight stack can include channels or guides to facilitate up and down movement of the weight plates. The weight stack can be made from durable materials such as steel or heavy- duty plastic, without limitations. Steel offers strength and stability, while plastic or composite materials can provide a lighter, corrosion-resistant option. In optional embodiment, the resistance assembly can include plate-loaded lever arms, or magnetic resistance units, without any limitations whatsoever.

[0057] In an embodiment, the at least one anchor strap 300 can include a first end 300a configured to be attached to any one of the plurality of attachment members 108, and a second end 300b, located opposite to the first end 300a, adapted to connect to the resistance assembly. The device 100 can be operatively coupled to the weight stack using a pulley and cable mechanism, wherein a cable can be attached to the second end 300b of the anchor strap 300. To perform the cervical exercises, the user wears the device 100 securely on the head using the head band 102 and chin strap, then connects the at least one anchor strap 300 to the cable of the resistance assembly. As the user moves their head through various motions such as flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral tilting, the resistance can be transmitted through the at least one anchor strap 300 and cable, engaging the cervical muscles against the adjustable load provided by the weight stack. This setup enables controlled and progressive resistance training of the neck in multiple directions, closely mimicking functional, real-world movement patterns.

[0058] Referring to FIGs. 4A to 4D, the possible motions or movements that can be performed by the user are disclosed. As shown in FIG. 4A, to perform the neck tilting exercise, the first end 300a configured of the at least one strap 104a can be attached to any one of the first attachment member 108a and the second attachment member 108b, and the second end 300b, can be crossed over the at least one strap 104a of the upper head piece 104 and thereafter attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck tilting exercise whilestabilizing the head of the user. Similar tilting exercise for tilting the neck towards left side can be done by attaching the anchor strap 300 or resistance band to the other lateral attachment members, such as the second attachment member 108b at the left lateral end.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4B, to perform the neck extension exercise, the first end 300a of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be attached with the first posterior attachment member 108d, and the second end 300b of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be routed across a midline region of the head of the user and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck extension exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 4C, to perform neck flexion exercise, the first end 300a of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be attached with any one of the first attachment member 108a and the second attachment member 108b, and the second end 300b of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be crossed circumferentially towards the second lateral end of the head band 102 and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck rotation exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 4D, to perform the neck rotation exercise, the first end 300a of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be attached to the third attachment member 108c configured at the frontal end of the head band 102, and the second end 300b of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be routed across the midline region of the head towards a rear side of the device 100 and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance to the neck flexion exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

[0062] Referring to FIGs. 4E-4F, to perform the head rotation exercises such as left side head rotation and right side head rotation exercises, the first end 300a of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be fixed to the third attachment member 108c, and the second end 300b of the at least one anchor strap 300 can be routed over a head band 102 around the head circumference toward the other side and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance to the head rotation exercises.

[0063] In some embodiments, to perform the neck shearing exercise, the first end 300a of the anchor strap 300 can be connected to any of the lateral members, and the second end 300b of the anchor strap 300 can be connected to the resistance assembly, routing over the upper head piece 104, to provide resistance to the neck shearing exercise, in which the user moves their head in sideways such as the left side, or the right side.

[0064] As can be seen, in each of the use case scenarios, the anchor strap 300 or resistance band can be routed over the head band 102 or the at least one strap 104a of the head piece 104.

[0065] Thus, the present disclosure provides the device 100 that can facilitate all possible movements of the neck to strengthen the muscles of the neck and improve neck flexibility. By enabling multi-directional resistance through a combination of the plurality of attachment members 108, the anchor strap 300, and compatibility with resistance assemblies such as weight stacks and pulley systems, the device 100 allows users to perform a comprehensive range of cervical exercises. The secure fit provided by the adjustable head 102 and the chin strap 106, along with the option to stabilize the device 100 using the rope 200, ensures consistent alignment and safety during dynamic motion. This enables effective training that replicates the natural loading patterns experienced during daily activities such as walking, running, and athletic movement.

[0066] A person skilled in the art would appreciate the proposed device 100 as an innovative solution for enhancing the safety, stability, and effectiveness of cervical neck exercises such as flexion, extension, rotation, and tilting. The integration of a head band 102 with strategically placed attachment members 108 allows for secure and versatile positioning of resistance band or anchor strap 300, while integration of a rope 200 enables the user to hold the rope 200 manually, thereby helping to keep the device 100 stable and correctly positioned during exercises. Furthermore, the inclusion of an adjustable chin band 106 ensures a snug, customized fit for various head shapes and sizes, thereby improving comfort and maintaining consistent positioning throughout exercise. This design not only facilitates correct biomechanical alignment but also addresses long-standing issues of strap displacement and user discomfort commonly encountered in conventional cervical resistance training apparatuses.

[0067] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability.

[0068] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A device to facilitate cervical exercises, the device comprising: a head band adapted to secure around head of a user; an upper head piece coupled to the head band, wherein the upper head piece comprises at least one strap covering at least a portion of the head of the user; a chin band coupled to lateral sides of the head band, and configured to extend beneath chin of the user to secure the device on the head of the user; and a plurality of attachment members configured circumferentially around the head band, wherein each of the plurality of attachment members are adapted to receive at least one anchor strap to facilitate the cervical exercises.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the head band comprises a first coupling end, and a second coupling end detachably coupled to the first coupling end to enable the head band to be secured around the head of the user.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the first coupling end and the second coupling end are detachably coupled to each other through a first set of hook and loop fasteners.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is adapted to perform the cervical exercises comprising any of a neck rotation exercise, a neck extension exercise, a neck flexion exercise, a neck tilting exercise, a neck shearing exercise, and a head rotation exercise.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of attachment members comprise a first attachment member and a second attachment member, and wherein the first attachment member is configured at a first lateral end of the head band, and the second attachment member is configured at a second lateral end, opposite to the first lateral end of the head band.

6. The device according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of attachment members comprise a third attachment member configured at a frontal end of the head band, and wherein the third attachment member is adapted to secure the at least one anchor strap during the neck rotation exercise.

7. The device according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of attachment members comprise: a first posterior attachment member configured at a posterior end of the head band, and adapted to secure the at least one anchor strap to enable the user to perform the neck flexion exercise and the neck extension exercise; and a second posterior attachment member configured at the posterior end of the head band, and adapted to secure a rope to enable the user to hold the rope and keep the device secured while performing the cervical exercises.

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the chin band comprises a first end, and a second end detachably coupled to the first end through a second set of hook and loop fasteners.

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the upper head piece comprises a cushioning layer beneath the at least one strap.

10. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one strap comprises a pair of securing loops configured at a center of the at least one strap, and wherein the pair of securing loops cross each other to form a cross-shaped structure.

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is operatively coupled to a resistance assembly configured to regulate resistance for the cervical exercises.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the at least one anchor strap comprises a first end configured to be attached to any one of the first attachment member and the second attachment, and a second end, located opposite to the first end, adapted to be crossed over the at least one strap of the upper head piece and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck tilting exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

13. The device according to claim 11, wherein the first end of the at least one anchor strap is attached with the first posterior attachment member, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap is routed across a midline region of the head of the user and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck extension exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

14. The device according to claim 11, wherein the first end of the at least one anchor strap is attached with any one of the first attachment member and the second attachmentmember, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap is crossed circumferentially towards the second lateral end of the head band and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the neck rotation exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

15. The device according to claim 11, wherein the first end of the at least one anchor strap is attached to the third attachment member configured at the frontal end of the head band, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap is routed across the midline region of the head towards a rear side of the device and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance to the neck flexion exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

16. The device according to claim 11, wherein the first end of the at least one anchor strap is attached to the third attachment member configured at the frontal end of the head band, and the second end of the at least one anchor strap is crossed circumferentially over the head band and attached to the resistance assembly, to provide resistance for the head rotation exercise while stabilizing the head of the user.

17. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of attachment members is arranged orthogonal to a circumferential direction of the head band.