Training machine

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a training machine in which a back pad is locally in contact with the back, thereby making it easy to be aware of the orientation or position of the trunk via skin sensation or pressure sensation and in which a user performs postural control, thereby making it easy to maintain a trunk-extended position. [Solution] Provided is a training machine for performing training while being seated with the trunk substantially perpendicular to the floor surface, said training machine comprising a back pad which is capable of locally pressing the back in a seated state. A user performs postural control such that the back pad is always fitted to the back, thereby making it easy to maintain a trunk-extended position. Stretching of core muscles around the scapula required to exert physiologically large energy is effectively facilitated. The pad is in contact with the back, thereby making it possible to have a function such as an indicator which makes it easy to be aware of the orientation or position of the trunk via skin sensation or pressure sensation, and making it possible to further promote learning of how to use the trunk part.

Description

Training Machine

[0001] The present invention relates to a training machine used for seated training, and in particular to a training machine that allows users to assume a trunk extension position (a posture in which the back is straight, the chest is out, and the waist is slightly arched; the same applies hereinafter) necessary to train users how to use their bodies in a way that effectively generates energy flow from the trunk to the limbs and greatly accelerates the extremities (fingers) by first causing postural control, which is an important element for efficient human body movement.

[0002] In recent years, interest in training machines designed to enhance the function of the neuromuscular system has grown. It is known that the human neuromuscular system adapts to the amount and content of exercise performed, and the effects of training also depend on the actual training conditions, such as the speed and angle of the training movements. Considering the specificity of this training from the perspective of motor control, it is important to conduct training that takes into account the characteristics of human physical movement in order to improve training efficiency. (Note: "Motor control" refers to an academic field that explores how humans control and adjust their bodies to perform optimal exercises for specific purposes. For example, when maintaining a stable posture and preventing a fall, the function of the bodily control system that enables humans to maintain posture is explored.)

[0003] When humans exert force or exercise, the roles of each part of the body can be broadly divided into those for exerting force and those for maintaining posture. Regarding the role of maintaining posture, the trunk plays a central role in stable postural control. In other words, when humans exert force, the trunk and lower limb muscles are activated first to establish a stable posture, which not only forms a foundation for efficient force exertion but also generates a large amount of energy. The energy generated by the trunk is transferred to the limbs, which then accelerate them. This coordination pattern between the trunk and limbs is found in movements such as pitching, batting, running, and jumping. For example, in pitching, the trunk leads translational and rotational movements, and the generated energy is transmitted via the shoulder joint to the throwing arm, which then accelerates and bends like a whip, transmitting force to the ball. This postural control function, necessary for efficient body use, is not limited to sports activities but is also found in a wide range of daily activities.

[0004] Regarding the role of maintaining posture, the muscle groups involved in postural adjustment activate first, stabilizing the position of the body segments involved in maintaining posture and enabling the provision of physical energy through positional changes. Therefore, in order to effectively accelerate the limbs, it is important for the energy flow from the trunk to the limbs to transmit the energy generated in the trunk to the extremities, and it is also important to adjust the trunk's posture to generate stable force prior to limb movement.

[0005] As an example of conventional technology relating to maintaining posture during training, Patent Document 1 describes a training machine for training specific muscles, particularly the deltoid (anterior), pectoralis major, and triceps brachii, which is equipped with a back support pad that is placed against the user's back when training in a seated position.

[0006] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-319524

[0007] In a training machine with a back pad such as that described in Patent Document 1, it is considered important that the back pad be in local contact with the back in order to adjust the posture of the trunk prior to limb movement, which is important for effectively accelerating the limbs. This is because the back pad's local contact with the back makes it easier for the user to be aware of the posture and position of the trunk through skin sensation and pressure sensation, and it is thought that adjusting the user's posture makes it easier to maintain an extended position of the trunk.

[0008] However, the purpose of the invention described in Patent Document 1 is merely to enable training of the deltoid (anterior), pectoralis major, and triceps brachii muscles according to the trainee's physique (see the abstract, paragraph

[0008] of the specification, etc.), and there is no mention of the purpose of facilitating posture control for effectively accelerating the limbs by having the back pad locally contact the back, or facilitating maintaining an extended trunk position. Furthermore, since there is no such purpose, naturally, a configuration in which the back pad locally contacts the back is not disclosed or suggested, and the drawings in the document only show a back pad shaped to contact almost the entire back (see Figures 1 and 6 of the document).

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a training machine in which a back pad makes it easier for the user to be aware of the posture and position of the trunk through skin sensation and pressure sensation by locally contacting the back, and by allowing the user to adjust their posture, they can easily maintain an extended position of the trunk.

[0010] In order to solve the above problems, the first invention of the present invention provides a training machine in which the user sits with their torso approximately perpendicular to the floor and performs training, and which has a back pad that can apply localized pressure to the back while the user is seated.

[0011] A second invention provides a training machine based on the first invention, wherein the back pad is a back pad that can apply pressure to the back in a point-like or / and linear manner.

[0012] A third invention provides a training machine based on the first invention, in which the back pad has a position adjustment portion for adjusting the position at which the torso is pressed.

[0013] A fourth invention provides a training machine based on the second invention, in which the back pad has a position adjustment portion for adjusting the position at which the torso is pressed.

[0014] The fifth invention provides a training machine based on any one of the first to fourth inventions, in which the back pad has a protrusion adjustment portion for adjusting the amount of protrusion from the back side.

[0015] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a training machine based on any one of the first to fourth aspects of the present invention, in which the back pad has a pressure adjustment portion for adjusting the pressure.

[0016] The seventh invention provides a training machine based on either one of the first to fourth inventions, further comprising an applied pressure measuring unit for measuring the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad.

[0017] The eighth invention provides a training machine based on any one of the first to fourth inventions, in which a plurality of back pads can be installed.

[0018] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0019] A tenth aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the second aspect of the present invention.

[0020] An eleventh aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the third aspect of the present invention.

[0021] A twelfth aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the fourth aspect of the present invention.

[0022] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the fifth aspect of the present invention.

[0023] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the sixth aspect of the present invention.

[0024] A fifteenth aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the seventh aspect of the present invention.

[0025] A sixteenth aspect of the present invention provides a training method using the training machine according to the eighth aspect of the present invention.

[0026] According to the training machine of the present invention, the back pad makes localized contact with the back, making it easier for the user to be aware of the posture and position of the trunk through cutaneous sensation and pressure sensation, and by assisting the posture adjustment function, it is possible to provide a training machine that makes it easier for the user to maintain an extended trunk position. This also makes it possible to provide a training machine that further promotes the user's learning how to use the trunk.

[0027] FIG. 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of the training machine in embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in embodiment 1.

[0028] 0100 Training machine 0101a Frame (pillar) 0101b Frame (beam) 0101c Frame (base part) 0110 Chair 0111 Seating part 0112 Support pillar 0120 Back weight 0130 Arm unit 0131 Vertical cylinder 0132 Horizontal cylinder 0140 Grip part 0150 Arm unit guide pillar 0160 Weight stack guide pillar 0170 Wire 0180 Pulley 0190 Back pad 0291 Pressing part 0292 Support rod 0293 Support rod 0294 Protrusion amount adjustment part 0294a Stopper (protrusion amount adjustment part) 0295 Position adjustment part 0295a Stopper (position adjustment part) 0392a Rod-shaped part of support rod 0392b Cylindrical part of support rod 0398 Pressing force adjustment part 0692c Connecting rod 0692d Pull spring 0692e Joint 0692f Pull spring fixing part 0893a Locking hole (position adjustment part) 0992a Locking hole (protrusion amount adjustment part)

[0029] The following describes embodiments of each invention. The relationship between the following embodiments and the claims is as follows: Embodiment 1 mainly relates to claims 1, 8, etc.; Embodiment 2 mainly relates to claims 2, etc.; Embodiment 3 mainly relates to claims 3, 4, etc.; Embodiment 4 mainly relates to claims 5, etc.; Embodiment 5 mainly relates to claims 6, etc.; Embodiment 6 mainly relates to claims 7, etc.; Embodiment 7 mainly relates to claims 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 11, 16, etc. However, the present invention should not be limited to these embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. <Embodiment 1: mainly relates to claims 1, 8, etc.>

[0030] <Outline of First Embodiment>

[0031] The training machine of this embodiment is a training machine in which the user sits with their trunk oriented approximately perpendicular to the floor and performs training, and is equipped with a back pad that can locally apply pressure to the back while the user is seated. Training machines configured to accommodate multiple back pads are also included in this embodiment.

[0032] <Configuration of First Embodiment: Example of Overall Configuration>

[0033] The training machine of the first embodiment includes a chair for performing training in a seated position and a back pad that can locally apply pressure to the back of the user in the seated position.

[0034] First, an example of the overall configuration of a training machine in this embodiment, which adds optional configurations to the above configuration, will be described with reference to the drawings, taking an example of a pull-down type training machine.

[0035] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a training machine (0100) according to this embodiment. In the following description, the Y direction in the diagram is defined as upward, the X direction as forward, and the Z direction as left.

[0036] The training machine (0100) shown in this figure comprises a frame consisting of a pillar (0101a), a beam (0101b), and a base (0101c), an arm unit (0130), a gripping portion (0140) provided on the arm unit, a back weight (0120), a wire (0170), a pulley (0180), a chair (0110), and a back pad (0190). The frame supports the entire structure of the training machine (0100). The arm unit (0130) is connected to one or more back weights via the wire (0170) and is configured to be movable up and down along a guide support.

[0037] The frame is provided with two guide pillars, one on the front side and one on the rear side. The front guide pillar (0150) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "arm unit guide pillar") is inserted into the arm unit (0130) and supports it so that it can move up and down. As will be described later, the arm unit (0130) consists of a vertical cylinder (0131) and a horizontal cylinder (0132) connected to it by an axis, and the guide pillar is inserted into the arm unit (0130) at the vertical cylinder part. Details of the arm unit (0130) will be described later.

[0038] The rear guide pillar (0160) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "weight stack guide pillar") is inserted into the back weight (0120) and supports it so that it can move up and down.

[0039] The back weight (0120) is a weight that serves as a load during training, and is made of metal such as cast iron or steel. The back weight is configured as a weight stack, which is a stack of multiple plates (weights), so that the weight of the load can be adjusted freely. Furthermore, each plate (weight) may be configured to be selectable from 1.0 kg, 2.5 kg, or 5.0 kg.

[0040] The arm unit and the back weight are connected by a wire (0170). That is, one end of the wire (0170) is connected to the arm unit (0130) at the front side, and the other end is connected to the back weight (0120) at the rear side. The wire (0170) is configured to be movable along a pulley (0180), and when a user performs a downward movement, which is an action of grasping the gripping portion (0140) provided on the horizontal cylinder (0132) of the arm unit (0130) and pulling it down, the wire (0170) moves along the pulley (0180) toward the arm unit (0130), and the back weight (0120) connected to the wire (0170) on the opposite side is lifted.

[0041] The training machine of this embodiment is also provided with a chair (0110) for the user of the training machine to sit and train while facing forward. This chair (0110) is made up of a seat (0111) and a support (0112) supporting the seat, and is mounted on a frame (0101c) constituting a base so as to be centrally located between the two arm unit guide supports (0150).

[0042] Furthermore, the training machine of this embodiment is provided with a back pad (0190) at the rear (backward direction) of the chair (0110) that allows the user to adjust their seating position and posture; the specific configuration of this will be explained in the next section.

[0043] <Configuration of First Embodiment: Back Pad>

[0044] Next, the structure of the back pad, which is the main component that characterizes the training machine of this embodiment, will be described in detail.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the back pad in this embodiment. In FIG. 2(a), the back pad consists of a pressing portion (0291), a support rod (0292), and a support pillar (0293). The pressing portion (0291) is the portion that directly presses the back. It is desirable that its surface portion be made of a relatively soft material such as soft resin, rubber, leather, or cloth. The support rod (0292) is supported in an approximately horizontal direction by the support pillar (0293), and the pressing portion (0291) is attached to its tip and used to support it. The support pillar (0293) is used to support the support rod (0292) to which the pressing portion (0291) is attached.

[0046] The back pad (0290) is configured to be able to locally press the back when the user is seated with the trunk (not shown; see FIG. 5) oriented approximately perpendicular to the floor (0202). Note that although the drawing shows an example of a pull-down type training machine as the training machine, the training machine of this embodiment is not limited to this.

[0047] FIG. 5 is also a diagram (including a diagram of the trunk) for explaining the outline of the back pad in this embodiment. As shown in this diagram, "substantially vertical" refers to a state in which the user of the training machine can stand with their back (0503) in a self-supporting position. In other words, it refers to a state in which the back (0503) is stretched straight and approximately perpendicular to the floor (0502). However, because the spine (0504), which determines the posture of the back (0503), naturally forms an S-shape when viewed from the side of the trunk, the trunk being "substantially vertical (to the floor)" does not mean that all parts of the spine are approximately vertical. It means, for example, that the imaginary line (Y) connecting the center of the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) and the center of the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) is approximately vertical. If the range of "approximately vertical" is expressed numerically, it means, for example, that the inclination of the line (A) connecting the center of the 12th thoracic vertebra and the center of the 5th lumbar vertebra with respect to the vertical imaginary line (Y) is within 10 degrees in any direction, front to back, left to right, and more preferably within 5 degrees. In other words, the state of sitting in the above posture corresponds to "a state of sitting with the trunk in an approximately vertical direction relative to the floor surface." However, the method of measuring "approximately vertical" is not limited to these.

[0048] Being able to "locally" press means being able to press only a part of the back, rather than the entire back. Specific locations to be pressed include, for example, the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) to the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10) on the back, which is at the same height as the xiphoid process (the small protruding bone at the bottom of the sternum, the bone in the center of the chest), or the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11) to the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12), just before the point where the kyphosis of the spine changes to lordosis. Therefore, being able to "locally" press in a more preferred sense means being able to press only a very small range, such as the locations exemplified above as suitable locations to be pressed.

[0049] The reason for "localized" pressure is that, in light of the purpose of providing a back pad, which is to make it difficult for the trunk to assume a bent posture, it is necessary and sufficient to apply pressure to the part of the back that can effectively achieve this.

[0050] Returning to Figure 2, there are no particular limitations on the shape of the pressure portion (0291) or the shape and area of ​​the pressure portion that contacts the back, as long as it can achieve the above-mentioned purpose of preventing the trunk from bending. For example, the shape of the pressure portion (0291) can be approximately spherical, approximately hemispherical, approximately cylindrical, approximately polygonal prism, etc. Furthermore, the shape of the pressure portion can be dotted, linear, or planar. An example in which the pressure portion (0291) of the back pad is dotted and / or linear will be described later in another embodiment (see embodiment 2).

[0051] The pressure should be strong enough to make the user aware that the back pad is in contact with their back, but not so strong that they feel the pressure is strong. This is because simply making the user aware of this is usually enough to prevent the trunk from bending. Also, if the pressure is too strong, it will restrict the movement of the upper limbs during training and hinder the freedom of movement of the shoulder joints and scapula.

[0052] The specific numerical value indicating this "level of force that allows the user to be aware that the back pad is in contact with their back" is something that should be designed appropriately depending on the expected physique and physical condition of the user, the contact area of ​​the back pad's pressing part, etc., but as an example based on testing using a testing machine, it is thought to be around 10 Newtons, assuming that the natural S-shape of the spine is maintained.

[0053] The back pad may have a position adjustment section for adjusting the position of pressure on the trunk. This is to allow the pressure position to be changed depending on the user's physique, etc. A configuration in which the back pad has a position adjustment section will be described later in another embodiment (see embodiment 3).

[0054] The back pad may have a protrusion adjustment portion for adjusting the amount of protrusion from the back side. A configuration in which the back pad has a protrusion adjustment portion will be described later in another embodiment (see embodiment 4).

[0055] The back pad may have a pressure adjusting portion for adjusting the pressure. A configuration in which the back pad has a pressure adjusting portion will be described later in another embodiment (see embodiment 5).

[0056] The back pad may have an applied pressure measuring unit for measuring the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad. The configuration of the back pad having an applied pressure measuring unit will be described later in another embodiment (see embodiment 6).

[0057] The back pad may be one that can be installed in multiple positions. This allows posture adjustment by providing multiple back pads (0190) and pressing the back at multiple locations. For example, although not shown, it is conceivable to provide three back pads, each pressing the eighth thoracic vertebra (T8), the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10), and the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12). The advantage of using multiple back pads to press the back is that it is easier to maintain the S-shape of the spine compared to using only one back pad. Another advantage compared to using linear pressure portions is that, since spinal shapes vary from person to person, if a position adjustment portion or protrusion adjustment portion (described below) is provided, it is easier to accommodate these individual differences by adjusting the position and protrusion amount of each pressure portion.

[0058] <Effects of First Embodiment>

[0059] When the trunk is in a flexed position, not only is the movement of the scapula and shoulder joint restricted, but the activity of the trunk muscles, particularly those in the abdominal region, is also suppressed. However, according to this embodiment 1, by adjusting the user's posture so that the back pad (0190) is placed against the back, it is possible to achieve the excellent effect of making it easier to maintain an extended trunk position. Furthermore, the back pad's contact with the back acts as an indicator that makes it easier to be aware of the posture and position of the trunk through cutaneous and pressure sensations, further promoting learning how to use the trunk. This is a significant effect not expected from conventional training machines, and its range of application is wide, not limited to training machines. <Embodiment 2: Mainly relates to claim 2, etc.>

[0060] <Outline of Second Embodiment>

[0061] The present invention provides a training machine based on the first embodiment, in which the back pad is capable of applying point-like and / or linear pressure to the back. The following describes in detail how the back pad is configured to apply point-like and / or linear pressure to the back. The remaining configuration is the same as that described in the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described again.

[0062] <Configuration of Second Embodiment>

[0063] 3 and 4 are diagrams showing examples of the shape of the back pad in embodiment 2. Of these, the one shown in FIG. 3 is an example in which the pressure portion (0391) of the back pad (0390) is configured to be able to apply point-like pressure to the back. As mentioned above, the preferred position on the back to be pressed by the back pad is a position between the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) and slightly below the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10). When applying pressure to such a narrow range, by making the tip of the back pad point-like, the user becomes more aware of the contact of the back pad with the back, and therefore becomes more aware of the posture and position of the trunk through skin sensation and pressure sensation.

[0064] In this embodiment, "point-like" does not refer to a point in the strict sense (having only a position and no length or width), but rather to a state having a certain amount of area. The specific area of ​​the pressing portion that contacts the back when applying pressure can be, for example, a roughly circular shape with a diameter of 1 to 20 centimeters, and more preferably 1 to 10 centimeters. These values ​​indicate the area of ​​the pressing portion that contacts the back, but when viewed in terms of the shape of the tip of the back pad including the pressing portion, "point-like" refers to a roughly spherical shape with a diameter of 1 to 20 centimeters, and more preferably 1 to 10 centimeters, or a roughly cylindrical, semispherical, or polygonal prism shape of roughly the same size.

[0065] Next, Figure 4 shows an example in which the pressure portion (0491) of the back pad (0490) is configured to be able to apply linear pressure to the back. For example, when applying pressure to the back over a certain length along the spine, such a device capable of applying linear pressure is used. This type of device has the advantage that it comes into contact with the back in a larger area than a point-like device, making it easier to adjust the posture to maintain the shape of the back. It is particularly suitable for users who have difficulty maintaining the natural S-shape of the spine with only point-like pressure.

[0066] In this embodiment, "linear" does not refer to a line in the strict sense (having only position and length, without width, etc.), but rather to a state having a certain area. The specific area of ​​the pressure portion that contacts the back during pressure application can be, for example, a roughly rectangular shape with a length of 10 to 80 centimeters, more preferably 10 to 40 centimeters, and a width of 1 to 20 centimeters, or 1 to 10 centimeters. In this case, it is desirable for the pressure portion to be curved into a roughly S-shape or a partial S-shape to conform to the curvature of the torso. These values ​​indicate the area of ​​the pressure portion that contacts the back. However, when viewed in terms of the shape of the tip of the back pad including the pressure portion, "linear" refers to a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape with a length of 10 to 80 centimeters, more preferably 10 to 40 centimeters, and a width and thickness of 1 to 20 centimeters, or a roughly cylindrical or polygonal shape of approximately the same size.

[0067] <Effects of Second Embodiment>

[0068] According to this embodiment, depending on the user's circumstances, such as the difficulty of maintaining a natural S-shape of the spine during training, the user can be more aware of the back pad contacting their back. Therefore, it is possible to provide a back pad with a shape and area that makes it easier to be aware of the posture and position of the trunk through cutaneous and pressure sensations, thereby providing a training machine that allows the user to adjust their posture and easily maintain an extended trunk position. <Embodiment 3: Mainly relates to claims 3, 4, etc.>

[0069] <Outline of Third Embodiment>

[0070] The invention of this embodiment provides a training machine based on embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, in which the back pad has a position adjustment unit for adjusting the position at which the trunk is pressed. The following describes in detail the structure of the back pad with the position adjustment unit for adjusting the position at which the trunk is pressed. The remaining structure is the same as that described in embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0071] <Configuration of Third Embodiment>

[0072] As shown in FIG. 2( a), the back pad of this embodiment has a position adjustment unit (0295). In this example, the position adjustment unit (0295) comprises the support columns (0293) of the back pad, the base portion (0201c) of the frame, and a stopper (0295a) for engaging these together. The position adjustment unit is used to adjust the trunk pressure position. The adjustment here refers to adjusting the height according to differences in the height of the trunk pressure position. The adjustment according to differences in the front and rear of the trunk pressure position is performed by the protrusion adjustment unit, which will be described later. As mentioned above, the height of the preferred trunk pressure position (e.g., a position slightly below the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) to the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)) from the seating surface varies depending on individual physiques. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to adjust the height of the trunk pressure position of the back pad. Therefore, the position adjustment unit is provided in this embodiment as a mechanism for this purpose.

[0073] The specific configuration of the position adjustment unit is not particularly limited as long as it can be adjusted to the optimal trunk pressing position for most users, but in the example shown in the figure, a telescopic mechanism is used. More specifically, the support pillars (0293) of the back pad are slidably fitted inside the approximately rectangular cylindrical frame (base part) (0201c), and the support pillars (0293) can be locked at any position using stoppers (0295a) such as screws.

[0074] Figure 8 shows an example of the specific configuration and adjustable range of the position adjustment unit in this embodiment. This figure is an enlarged view of the area roughly circled (a) in Figure 2(a). As shown in this figure, the stopper (0895a) has a male thread, and the support post (0893) has multiple female thread-shaped locking holes (0893a). By sliding the support post (0893), any locking hole (0893a) is aligned with the position of the stopper (0895a) to engage the two. For example, four locking holes (0893a) are provided, evenly spaced 3 centimeters apart. The back pad (0890) is attached 20 centimeters from the top locking hole. (Note that this figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.)

[0075] The adjustable range of the position adjustment unit desirably covers a range that includes the optimal trunk pressure position for many users with different body sizes while seated (e.g., a position slightly below the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) to the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)). While the specific range should be appropriately designed taking into account the expected body sizes of the users, the above example dimensions indicate that the adjustable range of the position adjustment unit is 9 centimeters. If the lowest hole is located 15 centimeters above the seat of the chair (0810), the height from the seat to the back pad can be adjusted between 35 centimeters and 44 centimeters in this example. Also, unlike the example shown in the figure, for example, instead of engaging a stopper with the locking hole in the support column, a male-threaded stopper can be tightened and locked onto the surface of the support column, allowing for stepless locking. Furthermore, if the chair height is adjustable, this range can be matched to the adjustable range of the position adjustment unit, making it possible to accommodate an even wider range of user sizes.

[0076] <Effects of Third Embodiment>

[0077] According to this embodiment, the height of the back pad can be adjusted to apply pressure to the optimal trunk pressure position for each user, depending on the user's physique. Therefore, it is possible to provide a back pad equipped with a position adjustment mechanism that allows more users to be more aware of their trunk posture and position through cutaneous and pressure sensations. This makes it possible to provide a training machine that allows users to adjust their posture and maintain an extended trunk position more easily. <Embodiment 4: Mainly relates to claim 5, etc.>

[0078] <Outline of Fourth Embodiment>

[0079] The present invention provides a training machine based on the first to third embodiments, in which the back pad has a protrusion adjustment portion for adjusting the amount of protrusion from the back. The following describes in detail the configuration of the back pad with the protrusion adjustment portion for adjusting the amount of protrusion from the back. The remaining configuration is the same as that described in the first to third embodiments, and therefore will not be described again.

[0080] <Configuration of Fourth Embodiment>

[0081] As shown in FIG. 2( a), the back pad of this embodiment has a protrusion adjustment portion (0294). In the example shown in this figure, the protrusion adjustment portion (0294) is composed of the support rods (0292) and support columns (0293) of the back pad, and a stopper (0294a) for engaging these with each other. The protrusion adjustment portion (0294) is used to adjust the amount of protrusion from the back side. This configuration is also primarily intended to accommodate differences in the preferred trunk pressure position depending on the user's physique (e.g., a position slightly below the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) to the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)). However, unlike the adjustment in Embodiment 4, which is related to vertical height, this adjustment primarily adjusts the trunk pressure position forward and backward to accommodate differences in trunk thickness and seating position in the front and back of the chair.

[0082] There are no particular limitations on the specific configuration of the protrusion amount adjustment unit as long as it can be adjusted to the optimal trunk pressing position for most users, but in the example shown in this figure, a configuration is used that is generally similar to the specific configuration of the position adjustment unit shown in Figure 2(a) in embodiment 3. That is, a through-hole in the front-to-rear direction is provided near the upper end of the support column (0293) of the back pad, and a support rod (0292) is slidably fitted in the through-hole, and a stopper (0294a) such as a screw can be used to lock the support rod (0292) at any position.

[0083] Figure 9 shows an example of the specific configuration of the protrusion amount adjustment unit and its adjustable range in this embodiment. This figure is an enlarged view of something roughly similar to that shown in Figure 2(a). As shown in this figure, it has a stopper (0994) with a male screw shape, and the support rod (0992) is provided with a plurality of female screw-shaped locking holes (0992a), and the support rod (0992) is slid onto the support column (0993) to align any of the locking holes (0992a) with the position of the stopper (0994) and engage the two.

[0084] The adjustable range of the protrusion adjustment unit is preferably large enough to cover a range that provides optimal trunk pressure for many users of different builds when seated (e.g., a position between the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) and slightly below the tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)). The specific range should be appropriately designed taking into account the expected build of the user. For example, the distance from the back surface (0991b) of the back pad's pressure portion (0991) to the closest hole (0992a) could be set to approximately 16 centimeters, with four holes spaced equally 2 centimeters apart from that point. This allows the distance from the back surface of the back pad's pressure portion to the stopper position to be adjusted from approximately 16 centimeters to approximately 22 centimeters at 2 centimeter intervals (note that this diagram shows the stopper not inserted in any of the holes). Also, unlike the example shown in this figure, for example, instead of fitting a stopper into a hole in the support rod, a male screw-shaped stopper may be tightened and engaged on the surface of the support rod, allowing for stepless engagement.

[0085] The adjustable range of the protrusion amount adjustment unit described above is based on the premise that the pressing portion of the back pad is at the same height as the optimal trunk pressing position. Therefore, when actually making an adjustment, it is desirable to first use the position adjustment unit to adjust the pressing portion to the same height as the optimal trunk pressing position, as necessary, and then use the protrusion amount adjustment unit to adjust the pressing portion to a position that presses against the optimal trunk pressing position.

[0086] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2( b ), the protrusion adjustment unit (0294) may be installed at an angle by providing a tilt angle adjustment unit (0296). The angle of inclination must be within a range that allows the back pad to accurately press against a substantially vertical back, preferably within a range of 30 degrees up or down. From the same perspective, the shape of the pressing portion of the back pad is preferably substantially spherical or a shape similar thereto. Furthermore, although not shown, a position adjustment unit (0295) may be connected to the chair (0210) and the chair (0210) may be rotated in the forward or backward direction instead of the tilt angle adjustment unit (0296), thereby making it possible to change the forward or backward position of the back pad. The pressing direction of the back pad does not necessarily have to be perpendicular to the torso surface, but may be oblique.

[0087] <Effects of Fourth Embodiment>

[0088] According to this embodiment, the front and rear positions of the back pad can be adjusted to apply pressure to the trunk pressure position that is optimal for each user, depending on the user's physique. Therefore, it is possible to provide a back pad equipped with a position adjustment mechanism that allows more users to be more aware of their trunk posture and position through cutaneous and pressure sensations, thereby providing a training machine that allows users to adjust their posture and easily maintain an extended trunk position. <Embodiment 5: Mainly relates to claim 6, etc.>

[0089] <Outline of Fifth Embodiment>

[0090] The present invention provides a training machine based on the first to fourth embodiments, in which the back pad has a pressure adjustment unit for adjusting the pressure. The following describes in detail the structure of the back pad with a pressure adjustment unit for adjusting the pressure. The remaining structure is the same as that described in the first to fourth embodiments, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0091] <Configuration of Fifth Embodiment>

[0092] As shown in Figure 3, the back pad (0390) of this embodiment has a pressure adjusting part (0398) for adjusting the pressure.

[0093] The main reason for providing a pressure adjustment unit is as follows: During training, the user's back typically moves slightly forward and backward. Specifically, for example, during a lowering motion, the back weight is lifted, and the trunk typically receives the load and moves forward and backward, causing the back to move forward and backward. Furthermore, during an extension motion while accelerating the elbow joint, the trunk typically moves forward and backward to maintain balance, and the back typically moves forward and backward accordingly. At the start of training, the position adjustment unit and protrusion adjustment unit can be used to position the pressure portion of the back pad at an optimal trunk pressure position. However, the position adjustment unit and protrusion adjustment unit alone cannot allow the pressure portion to follow the back movements during training. Therefore, from the viewpoint that it is desirable to always maintain the pressure portion of the back pad in an optimal trunk pressure position even during training, the present embodiment provides a pressure adjustment unit as a means to achieve this.

[0094] The specific configuration of the pressure adjustment section is not particularly limited as long as it can keep the pressure section of the back pad in the optimal trunk pressure position at all times during training.

[0095] An example of a specific configuration of the pressure adjustment unit in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the pressure portion (0391) of the back pad (0390) has a shape that allows it to apply point-like pressure to the back. In this case, the support rod constituting the pressure adjustment unit (0398) has a dual structure consisting of, for example, (1) a rod-shaped portion (0392a) to the tip of which the pressure portion of the back pad is attached, and (2) a hollow cylindrical portion (0392b). A compression spring (0398a) is housed inside the cylindrical portion (0392b), and the rod-shaped portion (0392a) is attached to the tip of the compression spring. Alternatively, instead of a configuration in which a compression spring is housed in the cylindrical portion of the support rod, a damper may be used. In this case, the elastic member inside the damper may be made of, for example, rubber, polyurethane, silicone, or the like.

[0096] In addition, in Fig. 3, the pressing portion (0391) of the back pad (0390) is shown as being capable of pressing the back in a point-like manner, but it is not limited to this, and for example, as shown in Fig. 4, the pressing portion (0491) may be capable of pressing the back in a line-like manner, or although not shown, it may be capable of pressing in a planar manner. The configuration shown in Fig. 4 is the same as that shown in Fig. 3 except for the pressing portion (0491). Alternatively, although not shown, spring steel may be used to utilize the flexibility of the entire mechanism.

[0097] Furthermore, Figure 6 shows another example of the specific configuration of the pressure adjustment unit. Unlike the example using a compression spring described above, this example uses a tension spring (0692d). As shown in this figure, the back pad's pressure portion (0691) is connected to a hollow support rod (0692) via two connecting rods (0692c). A tension spring (0692d) is attached within the support rod (0692), and the rear end of the tension spring is connected to a common joint (0692e) with the ends of the two connecting rods (0692c). This tension spring does not begin to extend unless pulled with a certain force or more. For example, by using a spring constant of 1.38 N / mm, it can begin to extend only when pulled with a force exceeding 9.8 Newtons. Therefore, for example, when the pressure portion (0691) of the back pad is pushed backward (to the right as indicated by the white arrow in this figure) by the user's back, the two connecting rods (0692c) are pushed in and their ends try to move backward (to the right), causing the end of the extension spring connected to the common joint to try to extend backward (to the right). In this case, the extension spring (0692d) does not extend while being pushed in with a force of 9.8 Newtons or less, but when pushed in with a force exceeding 9.8 Newtons, the extension spring begins to extend, and as a result, the two connecting rods (0692c) also move backward (to the right), and the pressure portion (0691) of the back pad is pushed in by the user's back. At this time, since the front (left) end of the pull spring is fixed to the pull spring fixing part (0692f), the force of the pull spring as it tries to contract causes the pressing part (0691) to move forward (to the left), pushing back the user's back, making it easier for the user to maintain correct posture.

[0098] The following is a specific explanation of how the pressure force is adjusted using the pressure force adjustment unit, using a pressure spring as an example (the same applies to other configurations as well). For example, when the pressure portion of the back pad is placed against the user's back at the start of training, the pressure spring is compressed to a certain extent, and the spring's biasing force against the back is acting. If the position of pressure on the back moves backward during training, the spring is further compressed, and the biasing force of the spring against the back increases, the pressure force adjustment unit has adjusted the pressure force in a stronger direction. On the other hand, if the position of pressure on the back moves forward during training, the spring is extended, and the biasing force of the spring against the back decreases, the pressure force adjustment unit has adjusted the pressure force in a weaker direction.

[0099] The range of pressure that can be adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit is preferably within a range of pressure that is close to the "level at which the user can be aware that the back pad is in contact with the back," even if the pressure position on the back moves back and forth during training. As mentioned above, an example of a specific numerical value that indicates the "level at which the user can be aware that the back pad is in contact with the back" is thought to be about 10 Newtons, assuming that the natural S-shape of the spine is maintained. Based on this premise, the adjustment of the pressure by the pressure adjustment unit can be said to be preferably an adjustment that, if the position of the user's back moves backward during training, pushes it back to the correct position and again provides a pressure of about 10 Newtons.

[0100] For example, when performing upper limb exercises using a pull-down training machine equipped with a pressure adjustment unit according to this embodiment, the range of forward and backward movement of the trunk pressure position during one complete cycle is typically considered to be within a range of 2 to 5 centimeters from the trunk pressure position at the start of the exercise. Furthermore, in a test using a prototype machine, the pressure changed from 10 to 50 Newtons until the back pad was pressed 25 millimeters backward from a 10 Newton pressure. Therefore, a suitable example of the pressure range that can be adjusted by the pressure adjustment unit is approximately 10 to 50 Newtons, or 10 to 100 Newtons, which is considered to be the pressure range required to adjust the user's normal back movement during training to return them to a correct posture.

[0101] In consideration of the function of the pressure adjustment unit as described above, this unit may also be called a "back contact follow-up mechanism unit."

[0102] <Effects of Fifth Embodiment>

[0103] According to this embodiment, the user's back can move back and forth during training, allowing the pressure portion of the back pad to remain in the optimal position for pressing the trunk. This makes it possible to more effectively achieve the object of the present invention of making the user more aware of the posture and position of the trunk through cutaneous and pressure sensations, thereby providing a training machine that allows the user to adjust their posture and easily maintain an extended trunk position. <Embodiment 6: Mainly relates to claim 7, etc.>

[0104] <Outline of Sixth Embodiment>

[0105] The present invention provides a training machine based on the first to fifth embodiments, and further including an applied pressure measuring unit for measuring the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad. The following describes in detail the configuration of the training machine's applied pressure measuring unit for measuring the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad. The remaining configuration is the same as that described in the first to fourth embodiments, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0106] <Configuration of Sixth Embodiment>

[0107] The back pad of this embodiment has an applied pressure measuring section for measuring the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad.

[0108] The applied pressure measuring unit is provided, for example, on the back side of the pressure adjusting unit in the support rod of the back pad. The installation position of the applied pressure measuring unit is not limited to the back side of the pressure adjusting unit, as long as it is a position where the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad can be measured as stress. For example, it may be located at the tip of the back pad or on the front side of the pressure adjusting unit. Also, it is not necessary to provide a pressure adjusting unit.

[0109] The applied pressure measuring unit may be of any type, such as an electrical type, a mechanical type, or any other type. Examples of such sensors include a semiconductor piezo-resistive diffusion pressure sensor and a capacitance-type pressure sensor. A semiconductor piezo-resistive diffusion pressure sensor is a pressure sensor that utilizes the piezo-resistive effect, which is the change in electrical resistivity of a semiconductor due to stress. In this sensor, a semiconductor strain gauge is formed on the surface of a diaphragm, which is a thin film micro-fabricated on a silicon substrate. Pressure is measured by utilizing the phenomenon in which mechanical strain generated when the diaphragm is deformed due to an external force (pressure) manifests as a change in electrical resistance due to the piezo-resistive effect. A semiconductor piezo-resistive diffusion pressure sensor can detect even minute pressure changes with high accuracy. Furthermore, since resistance changes in response to diaphragm deformation are instantly converted into an electrical signal, it has excellent high-speed response, making it a suitable specific example of the applied pressure measuring unit in this embodiment.

[0110] A capacitance pressure sensor is a capacitor formed by opposing two electrodes: a fixed glass electrode and a movable silicon electrode. When an external force (pressure) is applied to the capacitor, one electrode deforms, changing the distance to the other electrode, which in turn changes the capacitance. This is converted into an electrical signal to measure pressure.

[0111] The applied pressure measuring unit outputs the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad as an electrical signal based on the electrical signal obtained from the pressure sensor. This makes it possible to electrically record the measured value of the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad in a memory device. It can also be recorded in a memory device provided in a mobile information terminal via short-range wireless communication, etc.

[0112] <Effects of Sixth Embodiment>

[0113] As explained above, according to this embodiment, by analyzing the measurements obtained from the applied pressure measurement unit, for example, it is possible to utilize the fact that the pad in contact with the back can function as an indicator that makes it easier to be aware of the posture and position of the trunk through skin sensation and pressure sensation, and this can be used to provide feedback to the user as they learn how to use their trunk. <About the verification results>

[0114] From here on, in order to clarify the effect of the greatest feature of the present invention, "having a back pad that can locally press against the back while the user is seated with the torso approximately perpendicular to the floor," when training is performed based on the configuration and functions of the training machine of the present invention described in embodiments 1 to 7, we have verified the effects on the user's training movements and the user's subjective evaluation depending on whether or not a back pad is provided and the position of pressure on the torso when a back pad is provided, and we will now explain the results.

[0115] <Verification method>

[0116] The verification was carried out using the following method.

[0117] <Verification method: Subjects>

[0118] The subjects were seven adult men and women (five men, two women) with no injuries or disabilities in the upper limbs or trunk. All subjects understood the purpose of the training machine according to the present invention as explained in each embodiment and the training method described below, and had experience using the training machine for at least three months.

[0119] <Verification method: Verification conditions>

[0120] Using a training machine similar to those described in Embodiments 1 through 6, subjects were asked to perform training movements under four conditions: (a) with the back pad attached to the subject's back at the height of the solar plexus, (b) with the back pad attached to the subject's back at the height of the scapulae, (c) with the back pad attached to the subject's back at the height of the lower abdomen, and (d) without the back pad attached. Note that the "height of the solar plexus" corresponds to approximately the height of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10) on the back side. Furthermore, the "height of the scapulae" corresponds to approximately the height of the 4th to 6th thoracic vertebrae (T4-T6) on the back side. Furthermore, the "height of the lower abdomen" corresponds to approximately the height of the 3rd to 4th lumbar vertebrae (L3-L4) on the back side. The following points were taken into consideration: The back pad claimed in this patent is intended for use, for example, in a pull-down type training machine, and is used to adjust and stabilize the trunk posture when performing training movements using the machine. Placing the pad against the back at solar plexus height not only facilitates maintaining an extended spine position during training movements, but also encourages awareness of trunk extension. Placing the back pad at solar plexus height gently pushes forward from behind at the point where the thoracic kyphosis of the spine transitions from lumbar lordosis, preventing the S-shape (or other shape) of the spine from collapsing. Placing the pad at the height of the shoulder blades or lower abdomen would not achieve this purpose and would likely produce a different effect. Therefore, before performing each exercise, subjects were asked to adjust the height of the chair seat and back pad to suit the purpose of each condition. Furthermore, when not using the back pad, the back pad was shifted backward so that it did not come into contact with the back, allowing the subjects to train with nothing touching their back.

[0121] For the verification, the participants were asked to perform training movements under the four conditions above, and the downward rotational angular velocity of the upper arm (here, rotational angular velocity refers to the rotational velocity [angular velocity] that occurs when the upper arm segment undergoes a rotational motion [angular motion] in space) and the horizontal angular velocity of the forearm (the rotational velocity [angular velocity] that occurs when the forearm tilts horizontally to the body) were measured using sensors to evaluate the movements. After performing the training movements under each condition, the participants were also asked to perform a subjective evaluation of the skin sensation related to the training movements and an overall evaluation of the training under each condition. Details of the sensors used for measurement will be described later.

[0122] <Verification method: Training movement guidelines>

[0123] The training movement begins with the arm unit at its lowest position. The starting position is the forearm pronated, palm facing outward, and upper limb extended. At this point, the arm unit is rotated around its horizontal rotation axis, which is approximately perpendicular to the guide support that connects the arm unit vertically. Therefore, the gripping part connected to the arm unit is rotated inward with its rotation axis tilted slightly backward. The back weight then pushes the arm unit down, lifting the upper limb accordingly. During this lifting process, the elbow joint is slightly flexed and then extended again, while the upper limb simultaneously twists outward (shoulder joint external rotation and forearm supination). When the upper limb is raised to its highest position, the upper limb is extended with the palm facing inward, and the gripping part's rotation axis is vertical (the moment the training movement switches from lifting to lowering). The main movement, the lowering movement (pulldown movement), is then performed. The gripping part and the connected arm unit are pulled downward, mainly through scapular depression and shoulder joint adduction, while the elbow joint is slightly flexed and then extended again. At this time, the upper limb is twisted inward (internal rotation of the shoulder joint and pronation of the forearm), facilitating smooth extension. When this extension of the upper limb is performed beside the body during depression, the tip of the arm unit rotates around the horizontal axis of the arm unit, which is installed approximately perpendicular to the guide support, thereby returning to the starting position. This series of movements constitutes one cycle (one time), and each subject performed eight times for each of the four conditions, which differed in the presence or absence of the back pad and the pressure position described above. Before performing the training movements under each condition, the subjects were asked to confirm the movements two to three times before performing the actual exercise. <Verification Method: Evaluation Method of Training Movements Using an IMU Sensor>

[0124] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the attachment method of the IMU sensor used and the movements measured. To measure upper limb acceleration and angular velocity during training movements, an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor (manufactured by Tech Gihan Co., Ltd., product name IMS-SD) was used. For measurements, the sensors were attached to the subject's right upper arm and right forearm with double-sided tape, and an underwrap was wrapped around the arm to cover the sensors to prevent them from coming off during training movements. The sensor on the upper arm was attached to the center of the line connecting the right acromion and the lateral epicondyle of the right humerus, and the sensor on the forearm was attached to the center of the line connecting the lateral epicondyle of the right humerus and the styloid process of the ulna. In other words, the IMU sensors were attached to the lateral side of the right upper limb. The IMU sensor used in this verification is a device that detects translational and rotational motion along three orthogonal axes (X, Y, and Z axes), and can be evaluated by measuring acceleration and angular velocity. Therefore, the IMU sensor itself has three-dimensional axes. The X axis of the sensor attached to the upper arm is the line connecting the biceps and triceps, the Y axis is the line connecting the right acromion and the right lateral epicondyle of the humerus, and the Z axis is a line perpendicular to the surface of the sensor attached parallel to the upper arm. The positive axes are the biceps side, the right lateral epicondyle of the humerus, and the side away from the upper arm. The X axis of the sensor attached to the forearm is the line parallel to the line connecting the ulnar styloid process and radial styloid process of the wrist, the Y axis is the line connecting the lateral epicondyle of the right humerus and the ulnar styloid process, and the Z axis is a line perpendicular to the surface of the sensor attached parallel to the forearm. The X-axis was defined as the radial styloid process side, the Y-axis was defined as the ulnar styloid process side, and the Z-axis was defined as the side moving away from the forearm. In this study, the rotational angular velocity of the upper arm around the Z-axis was defined as the "upper arm downward rotational angular velocity," and the rotational angular velocity of the forearm around the X-axis was defined as the "forearm horizontal rotational angular velocity." The "upper arm downward rotational angular velocity" is defined as the rotational movement of the upper arm caused primarily by the adduction of the shoulder joint. During the pull-down movement, which is the main movement of the training machine of the present invention, the adduction of the shoulder joint, along with the depressing of the scapula, is the primary joint movement. Therefore, the higher this downward rotational angular velocity, the more the trunk (the joints of the trunk) are utilized.Additionally, the "forearm horizontal rotation angular velocity" was used to evaluate horizontal upper limb movement. The training machine used in this study has three rotational axes: (1) horizontal rotation of the arm unit around a vertical axis with the guide support as the center of rotation; (2) horizontal rotation of the gripper unit, which rotates parallel to the guide support; and (3) rotation around the arm unit's horizontal axis, which is approximately perpendicular to the guide support. This combination of three rotational motions allows for a high degree of freedom in upper limb movement, including twisting motion. These rotational motions increase the degree of freedom of the shoulder joint and upper limb girdle (a joint structure consisting of the clavicle and scapula) during lower limb extension, allowing for upper limb extension with twisting motion to the side of the body, resulting in smooth acceleration of the upper limb during lower limb extension. During this side extension, the forearm sensor rotates around the X-axis, and this value was used to evaluate the smoothness of the upper limb extension to the side of the body. In other words, it can be interpreted that the higher the value of the horizontal rotation angular velocity of the forearm, the smoother the upper limb movement to the side of the body. The measured waveform was sent from the transmitter in the sensor to a receiver inserted into a PC and recorded in dedicated PC software. The sampling frequency was 100 Hz (i.e., data was acquired 100 times per second). <Verification method: Subjective evaluation method>

[0125] Subjective evaluation was performed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for the five items listed below (1) to (5). Specifically, the subjects were asked to rate the sensations they felt during the training movements for each of these items on a scale of 0 to 10. After training, they were asked to mark the corresponding position on a 10-centimeter scale (representing 0 to 10) printed on paper by drawing a diagonal line and checking it. The distance from the leftmost mark (0) on the scale to the diagonal line drawn by the subject was then measured, and this value was used as the subjective evaluation value. The evaluation value was rounded to one decimal place.

[0126] (1) Ease of awareness of the core When the back pad touches the back during training movements, participants were asked to rate the ease of awareness of the core of the core (around the solar plexus on the back) (sense of the core of the core) with a "0" if they felt it was "not conscious at all" and a "10" if they felt it was "very easy to be conscious," with the number increasing as the ease of awareness increased (the results of the rating are shown in graph A in Figure 7 below).

[0127] (2) Ease of trunk extension When the trunk shifts slightly forward during the downward movement of the training movement, participants were asked to rate the ease of trunk extension when the trunk is extended. If the participant felt it was very difficult to extend, they were given a score of "0," and if the participant felt it was very easy to extend, they were given a score of "10." The greater the ease of trunk extension, the higher the score (the results of the evaluation are shown in graph B in Figure 7 below).

[0128] (3) Stretching sensation around the shoulder blades and sides Regarding the stretching sensation around the shoulder blades and sides, participants were asked to rate it as "0" if they "did not feel any stretching at all" and "10" if they "felt a very strong stretching sensation," with the stronger the stretching sensation, the higher the number (the results of the evaluation are shown in graph C in Figure 7 below).

[0129] (4) Acceleration sensation when pulled downwards Regarding the acceleration sensation when pulled downwards, participants were asked to rate it as "0" if they "did not feel any acceleration sensation at all" and "10" if they "felt a very smooth acceleration sensation," with the number increasing as the smoothness of the acceleration (acceleration sensation) increased (the results of the evaluation are shown in graph D in Figure 7 below).

[0130] (5) Smoothness of Movement The participants were asked to rate the smoothness of the movements during the training movements, with a "0" indicating that the movements were "not smooth at all" and a "10" indicating that the movements were "very smooth," with the higher the numerical value being, the smoother the movements (the results of the evaluation are shown in graph E in Figure 7 below).

[0131] (6) Overall evaluation

[0132] Furthermore, an "overall evaluation" item was added as a separate item from the evaluations (1) through (5) above, and participants were asked to comprehensively evaluate the sensations they experienced when performing the training movements under each condition. The reason for including this item separately from the evaluations (1) through (5) above is roughly as follows: Individuals may place greater importance on the sensations of each of the elements (1) through (5) above. A user who feels a certain element feels bad may immediately perceive the training machine as a whole as a bad sensation and dislike using it for that reason alone. To provide a machine that is easy for many users to use, it is important to evaluate whether the overall sensation is good. However, this overall sensation cannot be determined simply by evaluating the sensations of each element (1) through (5) above; it can only be determined by directly asking about the overall sensation as a separate item. For this overall evaluation, participants were asked to rate "0" for "completely unappreciable" and "10" for "highly appreciable," with higher numerical values ​​representing higher ratings (the evaluation results are shown in graph F in Figure 7 below).

[0133] <Verification method: Data analysis>

[0134] The measured angular velocity data was digitized within the measurement software, and after the verification experiment was completed, it was extracted as text data and then loaded into analysis software for analysis. Because the measured data contains a large amount of noise, it needs to be filtered. In this verification, the measured waveform was smoothed using a low-pass filter. The cutoff frequency for filtering was set to 6 Hz. The peak angular velocity within one cycle was detected from the filtered angular velocity data, and the average value of the peak angular velocity for eight cycles was calculated and compared between conditions (a. with back pad [height of the solar plexus], b. with back pad [height of the scapula], c. with back pad [height of the lower abdomen], d. without back pad).

[0135] <Verification Results> <Verification Results: Angular Velocity Peak Values ​​Measured by IMU Sensor> Figure 11 shows an example of a comparison of the upper arm downward rotation angular velocity (black bars A in the figure) and forearm horizontal rotation angular velocity (white bars B in the figure) during training movements across four conditions. Comparing the four conditions for the upper arm downward rotation angular velocity, the condition in which the back pad was pressed against the miso-ochi height, which is the condition set for the present invention, showed the highest peak value (242.5 deg / s), indicating that the muscle output of the trunk muscles involved in the adduction movement of the shoulder joint during pull-down movements was higher than the other conditions. The next highest peak value (235.6 deg / s) was observed when the back pad was not pressed against the back. The peak value was actually lower when the back pad was pressed against the back at the height of the lower abdomen and scapula, despite the back pad being pressed against the back. Similarly, when the horizontal rotational angular velocity of the forearm was compared, the condition in which the back pad was pressed at the height of the back scapula also had the highest peak value (130.2 deg / s), followed by the condition in which no back pad was pressed. The condition in which the back pad was pressed at the height of the shoulder blades had a peak value close to that of the condition in which no back pad was pressed, but like the lower abdomen, it showed a low value.

[0136] <Subjective evaluation>

[0137] Figure 7 shows the results of the subjective evaluation for each of the above items (1) to (6). As mentioned above, A to F correspond to (1) to (6), respectively, and each of A to F shows the results of comparing the evaluations of each of the trials (a) to (d).

[0138] Regarding A's "ease of focusing on the core," (a) the training movement with the back pad at solar plexus height was rated as the easiest to focus on. Next, (d) no back pad was rated as the easiest to focus on the core. Conversely, even though the pad was on the back, (b) the pad was placed at shoulder blade height and (c) the pad was placed at lower abdomen height, which resulted in a lower level of focus compared to no pad, with the pad placed at lower abdomen height being the lowest.

[0139] Similarly, the "ease of trunk extension" of B was rated higher when the pad was placed at (a) the height of the solar plexus, but when the pad was placed at (b) the height of the shoulder blades or (c) the height of the lower abdomen, the rating of ease of trunk extension was lower than when no pad was placed (d).

[0140] Next, for C's "sense of stretching (around the shoulder blades and sides)" and E's "smoothness of movement," the difference between trials became somewhat smaller, but (a) when the pad was placed at solar plexus height was still rated the highest.

[0141] Regarding D's "sense of acceleration (when pulled downward)," the evaluation was almost the same when (a) it was placed at the height of the solar plexus and when (d) there was no back pad. In comparison, the evaluation was significantly lower when the back pad was placed at the height of the shoulder blades or the height of the lower abdomen.

[0142] Furthermore, the smoothness of E's movements was rated as smoothest when the back pad was placed at solar plexus height, but the conditions in which the back pad was placed at shoulder blade and lower abdominal height also received relatively high ratings compared to other skin sensation evaluations.

[0143] In the overall evaluation of F, (a) the condition with the back pad at the height of the solar plexus was given a very high rating, followed by (d) the condition without a back pad.

[0144] In summary, when training movements were performed with the back pad attached to the back at the height of the solar plexus, as in the present invention, a higher angular velocity was observed in the downward rotation of the upper arm caused by shoulder joint adduction compared to when the back pad was attached at the height of the scapula or lower abdomen, or when no back pad was used. Similarly, the horizontal rotation angular velocity of the forearm, which is an indicator of the speed when the upper limb is extended to the side of the body, was also high. These results suggest that attaching the back pad to the height of the solar plexus increases muscle output in downward movements and the smoothness of upper limb extension. Furthermore, subjective evaluations also rated the pad highest in all categories, verifying the effectiveness of the present invention.

[0145] On the other hand, even when using a back pad, placing the pad at shoulder blade or lower abdominal height decreased training movement performance and subjective evaluation. The back pad of the present invention, placed at the level of the solar plexus, maintains the S-shape of the spine without curving the back, and is thought to have the effect of adjusting the trunk posture necessary for smooth, high-power output. Since stable posture adjustment and maintenance are necessary for smooth, efficient movement and high-power output, placing the back pad at the level of the solar plexus can be said to play an auxiliary role in helping the user stabilize their posture. The better results achieved without the back pad compared to the condition with the back pad placed at shoulder blade or lower abdominal height are likely due to the subjects' familiarity with the training machine of the present invention. Repeated training for at least three months likely allowed them to adjust their posture during training movements even without the back pad. In any case, it became clear that the back pad's function is not simply achieved by placing it on the back; it is also evident that it functions best when placed at the level of the solar plexus.

[0146] In other words, a training machine on which training is performed while seated with the torso approximately perpendicular to the floor, the training machine having a back pad that can apply localized pressure to a position on the back corresponding to the area around the solar plexus while seated, the back pad being a training machine that can apply point-like and / or linear pressure to the back, the back pad having a position adjustment unit for adjusting the position at which the torso is pressed, the back pad having a position adjustment unit for adjusting the position at which the torso is pressed, the back pad having a protrusion adjustment unit for adjusting the amount of protrusion from the back side, the back pad having a pressure adjustment unit for adjusting the pressure, the training machine further having an applied pressure measurement unit for measuring the applied pressure from the torso to the back pad, and the training machine on which multiple back pads can be installed.Training machines with the above configurations can be said to be suitable training machines.

[0147] <Conclusion>

[0148] From the above, it has been demonstrated that performing training movements with a back pad placed at the height of the solar plexus on the back improves the user's performance and subjective evaluation during training movements. <Embodiment 7: Mainly relates to claims 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, etc. Training Method>

[0149] This embodiment relates to a training method using the training machine described in the first to sixth embodiments. Such a training method will be described below. Note that in this example, the starting position of the training movement in the above-mentioned verification (when the arm unit is at the lowest position) is different from the starting position of the training movement, and the description will be made assuming that the arm unit is in an upper position. Therefore, in this example, one cycle of upper limb exercise is from the start of the lowering movement to the end of the fist-up movement.

[0150] Before starting training, the user first sits in the correct position on the chair. It is desirable to place the back pad at the height of the solar plexus, i.e., approximately the height of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10). This allows the user to begin training in a posture that maintains the natural S-shape of the spine. After starting training, the user first grasps the upper grip with their hand and forcefully pulls the arm unit (downward movement) to increase the acceleration of upper limb movement. To increase the muscle tension required to accelerate the upper limbs, it is better to utilize the stretch reflex, in which the muscle is stretched and then shortened like a rubber band, as in a jump using recoil, rather than simply contracting (shrinking) the muscle voluntarily. This series of muscle movements in which the muscle is stretched and shortened is called the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC). In other words, to increase the exerted muscle tension required to accelerate the upper limbs, the muscles undergo eccentric contraction in the latter half of the fist-up movement, while being stretched just before the point of change in movement (the moment when the direction of movement changes from fist-up to deceleration), and the resulting muscle movement flow that combines the resulting stretch reflex and concentric contraction due to voluntary muscle contraction is important, and since the fist-up movement of the arm unit is physically suppressed, it is stretched effectively, making it easier to take advantage of the characteristics of the stretch-shortening cycle. Here, the "fist-up movement" is primarily the reverse movement of the "deceleration movement," and refers to the movement of returning the arm unit to its original position while stretching the muscles.

[0151] This allows for instantaneous exertion of large muscle tension, and combined with a mechanism that physically facilitates acceleration of the arm unit in the downward direction, it concentrates force exertion at the beginning of the downward movement, exerting high energy, and allows for smooth upper limb movement without continuing to exert wasted force due to inertial motion caused by high acceleration. In this case, a weight distribution adjustment unit may be provided to apply a moment load to the center of gravity of the arm unit. Specifically, for example, placing a weight on a specific one of these weight distribution adjustment units tends to tilt the arm unit relative to the guide support, increasing the contact area between the guide support and the arm unit and increasing frictional resistance. Similarly, placing a weight on a specific one of these weight distribution adjustment units tends to tilt the arm unit relative to the guide support, increasing the centrifugal force that affects the arm unit's rotation around the guide support. Furthermore, by adding or removing weights from which of the weight distribution adjustment units, it is possible to adjust the frictional force that affects the up and down movement of the arm unit according to the user's experience and skill, and also to adjust the centrifugal force that affects the rotation of the arm unit.By using a training machine with this configuration, it is possible to provide a training method that increases the acceleration of upper limb movement, refines the use of the body, particularly the trunk, and enables efficient and smooth physical exercise with less unnecessary force and muscle tension.

[0152] Next, explosive force exertion generates high acceleration movement of the arm unit and upper limbs, but the downward movement of the arm unit slows down due to air resistance on the arm unit, frictional resistance at the insertion point where the arm unit guide support, which is the guide support for the arm unit, passes through, frictional resistance between the pulley and the tension member, and the weight of the back weight (weight stack), and eventually the speed in the downward direction reaches zero (the end of the movement) and the fist rises again. In this case, the arm returns to its original position while stretching the muscles.

[0153] This cycle, from the start of the lowering movement to the end of the fist-raising movement, constitutes one cycle. By repeating this movement an appropriate number of times, it is possible to effectively train the upper limbs. Through this training method, it is possible to easily learn how to use the body in a coordinated pattern in which energy generated in the trunk is transmitted to the upper limbs, causing them to accelerate.

Claims

1. A training machine in which the user sits with their torso approximately perpendicular to the floor and performs training, and which has a back pad that can apply pressure to the back in a seated position.

2. The training machine according to claim 1, wherein the back pad is a back pad that can apply pressure to the back in a point-like or / and linear manner.

3. A training machine according to claim 1, wherein the back pad has a position adjustment portion for adjusting the position at which the pad presses against the trunk.

4. A training machine according to claim 2, wherein the back pad has a position adjustment portion for adjusting the position at which the pad presses against the trunk.

5. A training machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the back pad has a protrusion adjustment portion for adjusting the amount of protrusion from the back side.

6. A training machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the back pad has a pressure adjustment section for adjusting the pressure.

7. A training machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an applied pressure measuring unit for measuring the applied pressure from the trunk to the back pad.

8. A training machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a plurality of back pads can be installed.

9. A training method using the training machine according to claim 1.

10. A training method using the training machine according to claim 2.

11. A training method using the training machine according to claim 3.

12. A training method using the training machine according to claim 4.

13. A training method using the training machine according to claim 5.

14. A training method using the training machine according to claim 6.

15. A training method using the training machine according to claim 7.

16. A training method using the training machine according to claim 8.

Images