Field

The present disclosure relates to an exercise apparatus. Definition

In the specification the term "comprising" shall be understood to have a broad meaning similar to the term "including" and will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. This definition also applies to variations on the term "comprising" such as "comprise" and "comprises".

Background

Resistance exercises are acknowledged as providing valuable health and fitness benefits.

Many resistance exercise devices have been proposed in the past. Some such as resistance machines or free weights are bulky and/or heavy, and may therefore be difficult to transport. Some, such as resistance bands, are easily portable, but are limited in the range of motion that they allow a user to easily employ. Some are relatively inflexible in the amount of resistance they can provide, or require inconvenient reconfiguration to provide even small differences in the amount of resistance provided.

The present inventor has determined that an improved exercise apparatus is desirable. The reference to prior art or other background in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that the referenced prior art or other background forms part of the common general knowledge in Australia or in any other country.

Summary According to a first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an exercise apparatus comprising: a handle portion; and at least two angularly spaced resistance elements which, in use, are attached to the handle portion for providing resistance to movement through a liquid.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus can be reconfigured between a working, or in use, configuration and a storage configuration. Reconfiguring the apparatus from a working, or in use, configuration to a storage configuration may comprise detachment of the resistance elements from the handle portion.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus can be disassembled to a compact storage configuration. In an embodiment the handle portion is provided with at least one retention arrangement for retention of at least one resistance element.

In an embodiment the at least one retention arrangement is adapted to releasably retain at least one resistance element.

In an embodiment each resistance element is detachable from the handle portion. In an embodiment at least two angularly spaced resistance elements are, in use, attached to the handle portion to provide an array of adjacent angularly spaced resistance elements.

In an embodiment the array of angularly spaced resistance elements comprises at least three resistance elements. In an embodiment the array of angularly spaced resistance elements comprises four resistance elements.

In an embodiment the array of angularly spaced resistance elements is generally cruciform.

In an embodiment the array of angularly spaced resistance elements is detachable from the handle portion.

In an embodiment the array of angularly spaced resistance elements is adapted to be disassembled into a plurality of pieces. At least one of said pieces may be substantially planar in form. At least some of said pieces may be substantially planar in form. Each of said pieces may be substantially planar in form. At least one of said pieces may comprise a resistance member.

In an embodiment, in use, the exercise apparatus comprises at least two spaced apart arrays of angularly spaced resistance elements.

In an embodiment, in use, the exercise apparatus comprises at least two spaced apart arrays of at least three angularly spaced resistance elements.

Providing one or more arrays of resistance elements which can be disassembled into a number of substantially planar pieces can assist in providing an apparatus which can be disassembled to a compact storage configuration.

In an embodiment the handle portion is elongate.

In an embodiment at least one retention arrangement is provided at an end region of the handle portion.

In an embodiment the retention arrangement is adapted to retain the at least one resistance element while preventing rotation of the at least one resistance element relative to the handle portion.

In an embodiment retention of at least one resistance element to the retention portion comprises insertion of a part of one of the resistance element and the retention portion into a recess provided on the other of the resistance element and the retention portion so that rotation of the resistance element relative to the handle portion is prevented.

In an embodiment the retention arrangement comprises at least one recess.

In an embodiment the at least one recess is adapted to retain at least one resistance element.

In an embodiment the at least one recess comprises a slot defined by the retention arrangement. In an embodiment the at least one slot extends substantially transverse to a direction of elongation of the handle portion.

In an embodiment the at least one slot extends from an end of the handle portion towards the longitudinal centre of the handle portion. In an embodiment the retention arrangement comprises at least two slots.

Such an embodiment may allow the retention arrangement to retain at least two resistance members.

In an embodiment each of the at least two slots extends substantially transverse to the direction of elongation of the handle portion. In an embodiment at least two said slots intersect.

In an embodiment at least two said slots intersect substantially at a longitudinal axis of the handle portion.

In an embodiment the at least two slots are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other. In an embodiment at least two slots each extend from an end of the handle portion towards the longitudinal centre of the handle portion.

In an embodiment the retention arrangement comprises an attachment portion for attachment of a retaining member for retaining at least one resistance element to the retention arrangement. In an embodiment the attachment portion comprises a threaded region.

In an embodiment the retention arrangement further comprises a retaining member for retaining at least one resistance element to the retention arrangement.

In an embodiment the retaining member comprises a threaded region for cooperation with the threaded region of the attachment portion. In an embodiment the threaded region of the retaining member comprises a female threaded region. In an embodiment the threaded region of the attachment portion comprises a male threaded region.

In an embodiment the handle portion is generally cylindrical.

In an embodiment the handle portion is between 10 cm and 60 cm in length. In an embodiment the handle portion is between 60 cm and 150 cm in length.

In an embodiment a retention arrangement for retaining at least one resistance element may be provided at each of first and second end regions of the handle portion.

In an embodiment a retention arrangement for releasably retaining at least one resistance element may be provided at each of first and second end regions of the handle portion. In an embodiment a retention arrangement for retaining at least two angularly spaced apart resistance elements may be provided at each of first and second end regions of the handle portion.

In an embodiment a retention arrangement for releasably retaining at least two angularly spaced apart resistance elements may be provided at each of first and second end regions of the handle portion.

The retention arrangements spaced at first and second end regions of the handle portion may each have any one or more of the features or characteristics of the retention arrangement set out above.

In an embodiment the resistance elements are vane-like in form. In an embodiment the resistance elements are generally planar in form.

In an embodiment the resistance elements are generally rectangular in form.

In an embodiment the resistance elements are provided on a plurality of resistance members.

In an embodiment each resistance member comprises at least two resistance elements. In an embodiment each resistance member is generally planar in form. In an embodiment each resistance member has a length, a width and a thickness, the thickness being the smallest dimension. In an embodiment the maximum thickness of each resistance member is less than 5 cm. In an embodiment the maximum thickness of each resistance member is less than 2 cm. In an embodiment the maximum thickness of each resistance member is less than 1 cm. In an embodiment the maximum thickness of each resistance member is approximately 0.5 cm. In an embodiment the maximum thickness of each resistance member is less than a transverse width of the handle portion.

In an embodiment each resistance member is generally rectangular in form. In an embodiment each resistance member defines a recess which receives part of another resistance member in use.

In an embodiment each resistance member provides a first resistance element projecting away from the recess in a first direction and a second resistance element projecting away from the slot in a second direction. In an embodiment the first and second directions are mutually opposed.

In an embodiment, when a part of a resistance member is received in the recess of another resistance member the two resistance members provide an array of angularly spaced resistance elements.

In an embodiment the array of angularly spaced resistance elements comprises four resistance elements.

In an embodiment the array of angularly spaced resistance elements is generally cruciform.

In an embodiment each recess defined by a resistance member comprises a slot.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus comprises a number of resistance elements of different sizes, such that differently sized resistance elements may be selected for retention to the handle portion, to provide different amounts of resistance to movement through the liquid.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus comprises a plurality of resistance elements of a first size, and a plurality of resistance elements of a second size. In an embodiment the exercise apparatus comprises a plurality of resistance elements of a third size.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus comprises at least four resistance elements of a first size, and at least four resistance elements of a second size. In an embodiment the exercise apparatus comprises at least four resistance elements of a third size.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus comprises at least eight resistance elements of a first size, and at least eight resistance elements of a second size.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus comprises at least eight resistance elements of a third size.

In an embodiment the resistance elements provide resistance surfaces which extend in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the handle portion.

In an embodiment the resistance elements provide resistance, in use, to movement of the apparatus through a fluid in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the handle portion.

In an embodiment the apparatus further provides one or more longitudinal resistance components which provide resistance surfaces which extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the handle portion.

In an embodiment the longitudinal resistance components are for providing resistance to movement of the apparatus in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the handle portion.

In an embodiment each longitudinal resistance component comprises a platelike member with an attachment configuration provided at a generally central region thereof for facilitating attachment to the rest of the apparatus. In an embodiment the attachment configuration comprises an aperture.

In an embodiment the attachment configuration comprises an aperture for receiving at least part of a handle member of the apparatus therein. In an embodiment the apparatus provides a retainer for securing a longitudinal resistance component against one or more resistance elements.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method of using an exercise apparatus comprising immersing an exercise apparatus in a liquid, holding a handle portion of the exercise apparatus and exercising by moving the exercise apparatus against resistance provided by the liquid.

In an embodiment the method comprises submerging the entire exercise apparatus in the liquid, and exercising by moving the entirely submerged exercise apparatus against resistance provided by the liquid. In an embodiment the method comprises provision of a plurality of angularly spaced resistance elements as part of the exercise apparatus.

In an embodiment a substantial part of the resistance provided by the liquid is fluid drag on the resistance elements.

In an embodiment the method comprises at least partial immersion of the user in the liquid.

In an embodiment the method comprises attachment of at least some of the resistance elements to the handle portion.

The attachment of at least some of the resistance elements may be prior to exercising by moving the exercise apparatus against resistance provided by the liquid. In an embodiment the method comprises detachment of at least some of the resistance elements from the handle portion.

The detachment of at least some of the resistance elements may be subsequent to exercising by moving the exercise apparatus against resistance provided by the liquid.

In an embodiment the exercise apparatus is an exercise apparatus in accordance with the first aspect.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an exercise apparatus comprising: a handle portion; and at least two resistance members for attachment to the handle portion for providing resistance of the apparatus to movement through a liquid; wherein each resistance member is generally planar and comprises first and second resistance elements connected by a bridging portion, and defining a slot provided adjacent the bridging portion, and wherein two resistance members are connectable by location of the bridging portion of each of the two resistance members at least partially within the slot of the other of the two resistance members, to provide an array of resistance elements for providing resistance of the apparatus to movement through a liquid. The apparatus of the third aspect may incorporate any one or more of the features or characteristics set out in above in relation the first aspect, or defined in the dependent apparatus claims.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments will be described below, in detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The primary purpose of this detailed description is to instruct persons having an interest in the subject matter of the invention how to carry the invention into practical effect. However, it is to be clearly understood that the specific nature of this detailed description does not supersede the generality of the preceding broad description. In the accompanying diagrammatic drawings: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exercise apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure, in a working configuration;

Figures 2(a) and 2(b) are, respectively, perspective and top views of a handle portion of the apparatus of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of resistance elements of the apparatus of Figure 1 , which provide resistance to movement of the exercise apparatus through a liquid;

Figures 4(a), 4(b) and 4(c) are, respectively, perspective side and end views of retaining elements of the apparatus of Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 is an end view of the apparatus of Figure 1 showing three different, alternative, sizes of resistance elements that may be selected and used; Figure 6 is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 showing three different, alternative, sizes of resistance elements that may be selected and used;

Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of the apparatus of Figure 1 , including the different sizes of resistance elements shown in Figure 5, in a storage configuration, retained in a container;

Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of the apparatus of Figure 1 , including the different sizes of resistance elements shown in Figure 5, in a storage configuration, retained in an alternative container;

Figure 9 is an illustration of an alternative size and shape of resistance element; Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of representative parts of an alternative embodiment;

Figures 1 1 (a) and 1 1 (b) are schematic plan views of two respective sizes of longitudinal resistance components for providing resistance to movement in the longitudinal direction of the exercise apparatus;

Figures 12(a) and 12(b) are, respectively, a perspective view and a transverse cross sectional view of a retainer member for retaining a longitudinal resistance component on the exercise apparatus; and

Figure 13 shows the longitudinal resistance component of Figure 1 1 (a) and the retainer member of Figures 12(a) and 12(b), in cross section, in use on an exercise apparatus.

Detailed description of embodiments With reference to Figures 1 to 7 an embodiment of an exercise apparatus, generally designated 1 , will be described.

The exercise apparatus 1 is for use in water. More particularly, the exercise apparatus 1 is generally in the form of a dumbbell, and provides a handle portion in the form of a generally cylindrical handle member 10, having a first end 1 1 and a second end 12. However, unlike a dumbbell, rather than providing weights at first and second ends, the exercise apparatus 1 provides a plurality of angularly spaced resistance elements, in this embodiment in the form of first to fourth paddles or vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23 at the first end 1 1 , and a further plurality of angularly spaced resistance elements, in this embodiment in the form of fifth to eighth paddles or vanes 30, 31 , 32, 33 at the second end 12. The first to fourth paddles or vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23 are retained by a retaining member in the form of a first retaining cap 40 which can be attached to the first end 1 1 of the handle member 10. The fifth to eighth paddles or vanes 30, 31 , 32, 33 are retained by a retaining member in the form of a second retaining cap 42 which can be attached to the second end 12 of the handle member 10.

In use, when submerged in water and moved by a user, the apparatus 1 offers resistance to movement by virtue of the fluid resistance to the passage of the apparatus 1 , and especially the passage of the paddles or vanes, therethrough. The apparatus 1 may be utilised by a user who is standing in a body of water, such as, for example, a swimming pool, although other modes of use, for example whilst swimming, are possible.

As can be best seen in Figures 2(a) and 2(b), the handle member 10 provides a generally central handle part 10A. The generally central handle part 10A may be provided with a grip, such as a sleeve (not shown) which may be of neoprene or the like, for improved grip and/or comfort. At the first end 1 1 , the handle member 10 provides first and second slots 13, 14, which are oriented across perpendicular diameters of the handle member 10, and which extend from the first end towards the middle of the handle member 10. In this embodiment the slots extend a little less than a third of the length of the handle member 10. In use, as will be described in more detail hereafter, the slots 13, 14 retain the first to fourth paddles or vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23. Further, at the first end 1 1 of the handle member 10 there is provided a region with a first male screw thread 15, which is used for attachment of the first retaining cap 40.

The second end 12 of the handle member 10 corresponds generally to the first end, and provides third and fourth slots 16, 17, in an arrangement corresponding to that of the first and second slots 13, 14, and a second male screw thread 18, which is used for attachment of the second retaining cap 42.

The first to fourth paddles or vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23 are illustrated in Figure 3. The fifth to eighth paddles or vanes 30, 31 , 32, 33 correspond to the first to fourth paddles or vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23 and will not be separately described. The paddles or vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23, 30, 31 , 32, 33 will henceforth be referred to as vanes for convenience. As best seen in Figure 3 the first and third vanes 20, 22 are provided by a first vane member 24. In this embodiment the vane member is generally rectangular. The first vane member 24 provides a central slot 25 between the first vane 20 and the third vane 22, and a bridging portion 26 which connects the first and third vanes 20, 22. The central slot 25 extends approximately half the width of the first vane member 24 from a first side of the first vane member 24 to the centre thereof, and the bridging portion 26 is coaxial with the slot 25 and extends approximately half the width of the first vane member 24, from the centre of the first vane member 24 to a second opposed side thereof. The width of the slot 25 is substantially the same as the thickness of the first vane member 24 and, more specifically, is substantially the same as the thickness of the bridging portion 26.

As can also be appreciated from Figure 3 the second and fourth vanes 21 , 23 are provided by a generally rectangular second vane member 27. In this embodiment the second vane member 27 is substantially identical to the first vane member 24. Thus the second vane member provides a central slot 28 between the second and fourth vanes 21 , 23, and a bridging portion 29 which connects the second and fourth vanes 21 , 23. The central slot 28 extends approximately half the width of the second vane member 27 from a first side of the second vane member 27 to the centre thereof, and the bridging portion 29 is coaxial with the slot 28 and extends approximately half the width of the second vane member 27, from the centre of the second vane member 27 to a second opposed side thereof. The width of the slot 28 is substantially the same as the thickness of the second vane member 27 (and of the first vane member 24) and, more specifically, is substantially the same as the thickness of the bridging portion 29 (and of the bridging portion 26).

Figures 4(a), 4(b) and 4(c) show a first retaining cap 40, and it will be appreciated that second retaining cap 42 is substantially identical thereto and will not be described in detail separately. First retaining cap 40 comprises a generally circular end wall 43, having a generally cylindrical side wall 44 depending perpendicularly therefrom. An outer surface of the generally cylindrical side wall 44 is provided with a roughened surface 45 to facilitate gripping of the first retaining cap 40. An inner surface of the generally cylindrical side wall 44 is provided with a female screw thread 46. The first retaining cap 40 is adapted to be screwed onto the first end 1 1 of the handle member 10, so that the female screw thread 46 cooperated with the first male screw thread 15. It will be appreciated that the exercise apparatus 1 , as illustrated in Figure 1 , comprises the handle member 10, four vane members (being the first and second vane members 24, 27 which together provide the first to fourth vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23, and two further vane members, being third and fourth vane members which provide the fifth to eighth vanes 30, 31 , 32, 33 and which may be substantially identical to the first and second vane members 24, 27) and the first and second cap members 40, 42. In this embodiment the exercise apparatus 1 can be readily assembled from these component parts, for use, and readily disassembled, for storage and/or transportation. It is envisaged that the apparatus will be provided in a disassembled condition, which allows easy and efficient storage prior to purchase by a user, and facilitates distribution and supply to a purchaser, for example, by mail. Further, it is envisaged that most users will disassemble the apparatus 1 after use to facilitate transportation, for example in a sports bag. In this embodiment the vanes, and vane members, are substantially flat and planar, which facilitates compact storage of the apparatus when disassembled. Assembly of the exercise apparatus 1 from the component parts can be performed as follows.

As illustrated schematically in Figure 3, the first and second vane members 24, 27 are oriented so that they are mutually perpendicular with the openings of the slots 25, 28 facing each other, and are then moved together so that the bridging portion 26 of the first vane member 24 is received within the slot 28 of the second vane member 27, and the bridging portion 29 of the second vane member 27 is received within the slot 25 of the first vane member 24. Because the widths of the slots 25, 28 correspond to the thicknesses of the bridging portions 26, 29, and the walls defining the slots 25, 28 are substantially perpendicular to the surfaces of the vane members 24, 27, this retains the first and second vane members 24, 27 in a mutually orthogonal, or cruciform, arrangement. This arrangement provides the first to fourth vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23 in an angularly spaced apart arrangement, with each vane angularly spaced by approximately ninety degrees from each neighbouring vane.

The first and second vane members 24, 27, once connected to form a cruciform arrangement of vanes as described above, are then inserted into the first and second slots 13, 14 at the first end 1 1 of the handle member 10, so that the bridging portions 26, 29 are provided in the space defined by the intersection of the first and second slots 13, 14. The first retaining cap 40 is then screwed onto the first male screw thread 15 at the first end 1 1 of the handle member 10. This assembles the first end of the exercise apparatus 1 , with the first to fourth vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23 retained on the handle member 10 by the first retaining cap 40. The second end of the apparatus 1 is assembled in a corresponding manner. That is, third and fourth vane members (not shown) providing the fifth to eighth vanes 30, 31 , 32, 33 are connected to provide a cruciform arrangement of vanes, the cruciform arrangement of the fifth to eighth vanes 30, 31 , 32, 33 is inserted into the third and fourth slots 16, 17 and The second retaining cap 42 is then screwed onto the second male screw thread 18, at the second end 12 of the handle member 10 to retain the fifth to eighth vanes 30, 31 , 32, 33. This completes assembly of the exercise apparatus 1 .

Disassembly is substantially the reverse of assembly. That is, for each end of the apparatus 1 , the first or second retaining cap 40, 42 is removed, the vane members, e.g. 24, 27, are withdrawn from the slots 13, 14, 16, 17, and the vane members, e.g. 24, 27, are then separated.

Of course, it will be appreciated that some variations from the sequences of assembly or disassembly set out above may be employed. For example, both of the pairs of vane members may be assembled into their cruciform arrangements before either is connected to the handle portion. Other variations are possible. The assembled apparatus 1 provides resistance to movement through a liquid, such as water, as described above. The resistance provided depends on the size of the vanes. Different amounts of resistance may be required at different times, or by different users. An embodiment may therefore provide different sizes of vanes which may be selected and fitted to the handle member 10. Fig.s 5 and 6 illustrate three different alternative sizes of vanes in an assembled exercise apparatus. The first size of vane 20, 21 , 22, 23, 30, 32 provides the least resistance, and corresponds to the size of the first to eighth vanes 20, 21 , 22, 23, 30, 31 , 32, 33 (thus corresponding reference numerals are used) shown in Figure 1 . In this embodiment each vane of the first size is approximately 48 mm by 80 mm, and approximately 5mm in thickness. The first size of vanes may be provided by vane members 24, 27 each approximately 100 mm by 80 mm in size (providing a 5mm bridging portion between the vanes). The middle parts of each vane member will, in use, be secured within the slots of the handle member 10. In this embodiment the handle portion has a diameter of 28 mm. Thus each of the vanes of the first size projects approximately 36 mm from the handle member, offering an area susceptible to fluid drag of approximately 36 mm by 80 mm. The second size of vane 20A, 21 A, 22A, 23A, 30A, 32A provides an intermediate level of resistance, by providing an area greater of that of the vanes of the first size, which can be resisted by drag when the exercise apparatus is moved through the liquid. In this embodiment each vane of the second size is approximately 73 mm by 80 mm, and approximately 5mm in thickness. The second size of vanes may be provided by intermediate sized vane members, e.g. 24A, 27A, similar to the vane members 24, 27, but larger. In this embodiment each intermediate sized vane member 24A, 27A is approximately 150 mm by 80 mm in size (providing a 5mm bridging portion between the vanes). The middle parts of each intermediate sized vane member 24A, 27A will, in use, be secured within the slots of the handle member 10. Thus each of the vanes of the second size projects approximately 61 mm from the handle member, offering an area susceptible to fluid drag of approximately 61 mm by 80 mm.

The third size of vane 20B, 21 B, 22B, 23B, 30B, 32B provides the greatest level of resistance, by providing an area greater of that of the vanes of the first and second sizes which can be resisted by drag when the exercise apparatus is moved through the liquid. In this embodiment each vane of the third size is approximately 98 mm by 80 mm, and approximately 5mm in thickness. The third size of vanes may be provided by larger sized vane members, e.g. 24B, 27B, similar to the vane members 24, 27, 24A, 27A but larger. In this embodiment each larger sized vane member 24B, 27B is approximately 200 mm by 80 mm in size (providing a 5mm bridging portion between the vanes). The middle parts of each larger sized vane member 24B, 27B will, in use, be secured within the slots of the handle member 10. Thus each of the vanes of the third size projects approximately 86 mm from the handle member, offering an area susceptible to fluid drag of 86 mm by 80 mm.

The different sizes of vanes and vane members, e.g. 24, 27, 24A, 27A, 24A, 27B, are each attachable to the handle member 10 in a similar manner (described above).

The sizes mentioned above are by way of example only, and it will be appreciated that vanes, and vane members, of different sizes may be provided as desired. By way of non-limiting example, for still greater resistance than that offered by the larger sized vane members 24B, 27B, it has been found useful to provide one or more vane members approximately 300 mm length by 80 mm wide. When used with the embodiment described above these provide vanes approximately 148 mm by 80 mm in size, which each project approximately 136 mm from the handle member, offering an area susceptible to fluid drag of 136 mm by 80 mm.

The other components may also be of any suitable sizes. By way of example, in an embodiment consistent with those illustrated in Figures 1 to 6, the handle member 10 has a length of approximately 360 mm, and the slots 13, 14, 15, 16 have lengths of 100 mm, of which, in use, 80 mm accommodates the vane members and 20 mm corresponds to the axial end regions of the handle member where the threads 15, 18 are provided (so that when the retaining caps 40, 42 are located on the handle member 10 the vane members are restricted to the aforementioned 80 mm of the slots that are without the threads 15, 18). In an embodiment the central part of the handle member, which provides the generally central handle part 10A, has a length of 160 mm. Correspondingly, in this embodiment the retaining caps 40, 42 may be approximately 25 mm in length, with the end walls 43 having a thickness of about 5 mm and the female screw threads 46 having a length of about 20 mm, corresponding to the lengths of the male screw threads, 15, 18. This allows the retaining caps 40, 42 to be screwed tightly onto the handle member without applying excessive undesirable compressive forces to the vane members. The external diameter of the retaining caps may be approximately 38 mm, although other external diameters, and external shapes other than circular, could be used. Of course, many variations are possible, and in one variation, intended for use with both hands, the handle member may have a length of between 500 mm and 1200 mm, for example between 700 mm and 1000mm, and the vanes and vane members may be larger to provide greater resistance. These and other features and parts may be varied in size as desired.

The vanes, and vane members, illustrated are generally rectangular. In the illustrated embodiments the vanes have radiused corners (for example with a radius of curvature of about 20 mm) to avoid having sharp corners which could present a danger in use. It will be appreciated, however, that alternative shapes of vane and vane members could be used. The exercise apparatus 1 , in this embodiment, is adapted to be used in one hand. It may therefore be desirable to provide a user with two such exercise apparatuses so that both hands and arms can be exercised in a similar manner simultaneously.

A kit comprising two such exercise apparatuses 1 will therefore comprise two of each of the components described above, and/or illustrated by Fig.s 1 to 4 or 5 to 6 (or implicit from the Figures and description).

That is a kit providing a single size of vane may provide: two handle members 10; two first retaining caps 40 and two second retaining caps 42, totalling four retaining caps; and two vane members for each end of each of the two handle members, totalling eight vane members.

A kit providing three sizes of vane may provide: two handle members 10; two first retaining caps 40 and two second retaining caps 42, totalling four retaining caps; and two vane members of each of the three sizes for each end of each of the two handle members, being eight vane members of each size, or twenty four vane members in total. Because the vane members of the above described embodiment are substantially in the form of flat plates, the entire apparatus (or kit of two apparatuses), is compact and easy to transport and/or store when disassembled. The disassembled apparatus(es) may, for example be conveniently stored in a bag for transportation by a user to and from the facility where exercise using the apparatus(es) is performed. The bag may be a mesh bag (not shown), and may be conveniently put in a sports bag for storage and transportation. Use of a mesh bag allows evaporation and dispersal of any residual water or dampness on the apparatus(es), and allows the contents to be seen and easily identified.

Further the compact nature of the apparatus(es) allows initial provision of the apparatus(es) in a compact box facilitating distribution and supply to a purchaser, for example, by mail, as foreshadowed above.

Figure 7 illustrates a kit comprising two disassembled (or not yet assembled) exercise apparatuses, each in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 5 and 6 (and each providing three alternative sizes of vane member) packed in a box 100, in plan view and with the lid removed. The box 100 comprises a number of partitions which define areas in which the components can be stored. In this embodiment the box is generally rectangular in plan view. A first area 101 , for accommodating the two handle members 10 extends all the way along one long side of the box and is approximately 380 mm by 40 mm.

A second area 102 for accommodating the eight vane members, e.g. 24, of the first (smallest) size (80 mm by 100 mm) extends along a first short side of the box and is approximately 86 mm by 106 mm.

A third area 103 for accommodating the four retaining caps 40, 42 extends along the remainder of the first short side of the box and is approximately 86 mm by 54 mm.

A fourth area 104 for accommodating the eight vane members, e.g. 24B, of the third (largest) size (80 mm by 200 mm) extends along a second short side of the box and is approximately 206 mm by 86 mm.

A fifth area 105 for accommodating a mesh bag (not shown) extends the remainder of the way along a second short side of the box and is approximately 206 mm by 74 mm.

A sixth area 106 for accommodating the eight vane members, e.g. 24A, of the second (intermediate) size (80 mm by 150 mm) is provided between the second and third areas, on one side thereof, and the fourth and fifth areas, on the other side thereof, and is approximately 88 mm by 160 mm.

For each of the areas described above the first dimension given is in the direction of the longer sides (i.e. the length) of the box and the second dimension given is in the direction of the shorter sides (i.e. the width) of the box. The dimensions given include the thickness of the partitions so that the areas themselves may actually be 1 mm to 4 mm smaller than the dimensions stated by way of example above, but it will be appreciated from consideration of the sizes of the components and the above stated sizes of the areas 101 to 106, that the areas are nonetheless amply able to accommodate the components. Of course, it will be appreciated that the dimensions provided are by way of illustration, and may be varied according to the thickness of the partitions and/or exterior walls of the box, and the sizes of the objects to be accommodated.

The vane members of each size are stacked when accommodated in the described areas. As each vane member is substantially flat and planar (in this embodiment) and is approximately 5 mm thick (in this embodiment), each stack of eight vane members will be approximately 40 mm high.

The external dimensions of the box, in this embodiment, are approximately 380 mm by 200 mm. The internal space defined by the box must be at least 40mm deep to accommodate the stacks of vane members, and if the handle members 10 are vertically stacked, the depth must be at least 56mm. Allowing for the thickness of the material of which the box is made (e.g. corrugated cardboard) and some play, the external depth of the box may be between about 70 mm to 80 mm. The box 100 may thus be 380 mm long by 200 mm wide by 70 - 80 mm deep, which is a convenient size for storage or distribution. A DVD 407, or other data carrying medium, which details exercises which can be performed using the exercise apparatuses, may be laid over two or more of the storage areas.

Figure 8 illustrates an alternative box 200 for accommodating apparatuses in accordance with the present disclosure in disassembled (or not yet assembled) configurations. The layout of different storage areas is considered self-explanatory in view of the description provided above in relation to Figure 7, and it will be appreciated that the box 200 may accommodate the same contents as the box 100, except that box 200 is not intended to accommodate a mesh bag. The box 200 may have external dimensions of approximately 470 mm by 220 mm by 50 mm. These dimensions are not very different from those of some tennis racquet heads, and the length of the box 200 is considerably shorter than that of a tennis or squash racquet. The box 200 would fit comfortably in a sports bag, and could be used instead of a mesh bag for transportation of the apparatus(es), in a sports bag, by a user to and from the facility where exercise using the apparatus(es) is performed. The box 200 could be moulded from a plastic material, and have moulded recesses defining the areas which accommodate and position the components, in a manner known per se, and sometimes used in boxes for storing ratchet socket sets or other tools. The box 200 could be provided with a hinged lid (not shown) for convenience, and/or with openings to allow evaporation and dispersal of any residual water or dampness on the apparatus(es). Figure 9 illustrates an alternative shape of vane member, and shows first and second vane members, generally designated 300 and 320. The vane members 300, 320, are similar in configuration and use to vane members 24 and 27, in that each provides two resistance elements in the form of vanes 301 , 302, 321 , 322, with a bridging portion 303, 323 connecting the vanes and a slot 304, 324 between the vanes. Further, the vane members 300, 320, are adapted to be fitted together to provide a cruciform array of vanes 301 , 302, 321 , 322. However, vane members 300, 320, differ from vane members 24 and 27, in that each of the vanes 301 , 302, 321 , 322 is provided with an additional area to which a liquid may apply drag, by provision of an extension part 305, 306, 325, 326, which in use projects away from the central region of the handle member (not shown, but may correspond to handle member 10). In this embodiment the extension parts 305, 306, 325, 326, in use, project past the retaining caps (not shown, but may correspond to retaining caps 40, 42). The extension parts 305, 306, 325, 326 are shaped in order that they do not interfere with attachment of retaining caps to the handle member. In this embodiment the extension parts 305, 306, 325, 326 of each vane member 300, 320 are provided with a recess 307, 327 therebetween, which provides enough space for the retaining caps to be operated without undesirable interference from the extension parts 305, 306, 325, 326, or any other parts of the vane members 300, 320.

The provision of extension parts 305, 306, 325, 326 allow the vanes 301 , 302, 321 , 322 to be enlarged compared to, for example rectangular vanes which project a similar transverse distance from the axis of the handle member, providing an additional option for providing increased resistance, while maintaining a configuration which assists in avoiding the vanes interfering with a user or a user's movements, and which avoids the vanes being made so long that they become difficult to store or prone to breaking under load (for example if moved quickly through the water. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 9, the vanes 301 , 302, 321 , 322 may be considered to project a similar transverse distance from the axis of the handle member as do the third size of vanes provided by the larger sized vane members 24B, 27B, discussed above. An outline equivalent to the shape and dimensions of the outlines of the vane members 24B, 27B is shown by broken lines designated 24B, 27B in Figure 9 by way of comparison. It should be appreciated that this illustration of the increased functional size of the vane members 300, 320 compared to the vane members 24B, 27B is provided by way of example and illustration only, and that the vane members 300, 320 could be of any suitable and desired size. The vane members 300, 320 may be of particular use for a stronger user and/or with an embodiment intended for use with both hands. It will be appreciated that the generally rectangular vane members 24, 27, 24A, 27A, 24B, 27B, are essentially 'direction independent' in that they do not extend further in one axial direction of the apparatus than in the other. Thus the slot of any one of these vane members can be faced in either direction (as necessary to cooperate with the slot of another vane member) so that the generally rectangular vane members of each size may be substantially identical. However, the extension parts 305, 306, 325, 326 of vane members 300, 320 are adapted to extend away from the centre of the handle member rather than towards the centre of the handle member, which determines the orientation of the vane members 300, 320. Thus the vane members 300, 320 are proved as two types, differing in that the first type, e.g. vane member 300, are adapted to have their openings facing away from the centre of the handle member, and the second type, e.g. vane member 320, are adapted to have their openings facing towards the centre of the handle member. Thus the slots of the two types can interact to allow provision of a cruciform arrangement in which all the extension parts 305, 306, 325, 326 extend away from the centre of the handle member.

Figure 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment 401 , which provides an alternative connection arrangement for connecting vane members 424, 427 to a handle member 410. In this embodiment rather than having slots to allow connection, each vane member 424, 427 provides a bridging portion in the form of a collar portion 426, 429 adapted to fit around a connection portion 414 of handle member 410.

As in other embodiments, a means is provided to provide the vanes in a predetermined angularly spaced array, and to prevent relative rotation of the vanes in use.

In this embodiment the collar portions are provided with projections and recesses 427, 428, 430, 431 (schematically illustrated in Figure 10) so that they can fit together to provide an array of vanes in a predetermined angularly spaced array, and so that relative rotation of the vane members is prevented in use.

A means is also provides to prevent relative rotation of the vanes relative to the handle member in use.

In this embodiment the vane member 427 that is, in use, closer to the centre of the handle portion 410 is provided with a recess 412 into which a projection 413 provided on the handle portion 410 can be received. The means of retaining the vanes on the handle portion 410 is, in this example, provided by an aperture 415 at an end of the handle portion 410, which can receive a locking pin (not shown) to retain the vane members 424, 427.

Of course many variations are possible. For example, the means to prevent relative rotation of the vanes relative to the handle member in use could be a recess in the handle portion which cooperates with a projection on one of the vane members. Alternatively the means to prevent relative rotation of the vanes relative to the handle member in use could be provided by splines on the handle member and a complementary set of grooved provided on an interior wall surface of one or both of the collar portions. In a further alternative the collar portions could be provided with a screw thread for threaded connection to a complementary threaded part of the handle member. In a further variation one or more of the vanes could be integrally formed with the handle portion, and/or not detachable therefrom. If such vanes were substantially coplanar, a reasonably compact storage configuration could still be achieved, although such an arrangement may provide less flexibility in storage than the embodiments of Figures 1 to 6. (It will be noted that the vane members 424, 427 which have collar portions are considered to provide less flexibility for compact storage than the embodiments of Figures 1 to 6).

It will be appreciated that the embodiments described above can provide substantial resistance to movement through a liquid in the direction transverse to the direction of elongation of the handle member, but does not provide substantial resistance to movement through a liquid in the direction parallel to the direction of elongation of the handle member. In some circumstances it is desirable to provide resistance to movement in the direction parallel to the direction of elongation of the handle member. For example, it may be desired to provide resistance to movement of a user's arms when the arms of the user are being swung in a forwards and backwards direction by the user's sides with the backs of the user's hand facing outwards, such as when an exercise similar to, or simulating, a walking action is performed.

Embodiments and use of a resistance component which can be used to provide resistance in the direction parallel to the direction of elongation of the handle member are illustrated in Figures 1 1 (a) to 13, and described below. A first embodiment 500 of a longitudinal resistance component for use in providing resistance to movement in the direction parallel to the direction of elongation of the handle member, is illustrated in Figure 1 1 (a).

The longitudinal resistance component 500 is in the form of a generally flat disc-like plate 502 provided with a generally central aperture 504. The aperture 504 is provided to allow the longitudinal resistance component 500 to receive a portion of the rest of an exercise apparatus, in this embodiment to receive a portion of the rest of the exercise apparatus 1 . This allows connection of the longitudinal resistance component 500 to the rest of the apparatus. In this embodiment the aperture 504 is sized to receive an end cap 40, 42 and to fit closely around the end cap. Thus the aperture in this embodiment is substantially circular and has a diameter very slightly larger than the outer diameter of the end caps 40, 42. The outer diameter of the longitudinal resistance component 500 determines the amount of resistance provided in use (other factors being equal). For example, the longitudinal resistance component 500 may have a diameter of approximately 150 mm, although, of course, other sizes are possible.

It will be appreciated that although a generally circular or disc-like form is currently considered appropriate, one or more longitudinal resistance components of alternative shapes (for example, but not limited to, generally square or generally hexagonal) could be provided. It is preferred that the longitudinal resistance components are generally planar or flat. To facilitate storage when not attached to the handle portion. It is also preferred that sharp corners are avoided, for example by selection of an appropriate shape, and/or by radiussing of corners, fore safety reasons.

A second embodiment 500A of a longitudinal resistance component, which differs from the longitudinal resistance component 500 only in the size of the outer diameter, is illustrated in Figure 1 1 (b). Thus the longitudinal resistance component 500A is in the form of a generally flat disc-like plate 502A provided with a generally central aperture 504A. The aperture 504A is substantially identical in size and form to the aperture 504 of longitudinal resistance component 500. The resistance component 500A may have an outer diameter of approximately 100 mm. It will be appreciated that use of one or more longitudinal resistance components is optional for the apparatus 1 . One or more longitudinal resistance components may be provided as an option, and/or as an upgrade that can be retrofitted, to the apparatus 1 . The apparatus may comprise only a single longitudinal resistance component 500, 500A but preferably comprises at least two longitudinal resistance components, so that one can be at or towards each end of the apparatus or handle portion. Further the apparatus preferably comprises longitudinal resistance components of different outer diameters so that a suitably sized longitudinal resistance component can be selected for use, according to the desired level of resistance. Where more than one size of longitudinal resistance component is provided, the apparatus preferably comprises two longitudinal resistance components of each size. A kit comprising two of the apparatuses preferably comprises at least four longitudinal resistance components (e.g. 500, 500A) of each size, so that one can be fitted to each end of each of the two exercise apparatuses. It is considered desirable to provide three different sizes of longitudinal resistance component. Thus a kit comprising two of the apparatuses preferably comprises at least twelve longitudinal resistance components in total. The outer diameters of the three sizes of longitudinal resistance components may correspond substantially to the lengths of three sizes of vane member provided, so that the vane elements and the longitudinal resistance components 500 can be selected to extend substantially the same transverse distance from the handle portion of an apparatus. Like the vane members the longitudinal resistance components 500, 500A may be made of a suitable plastic, and may be about 5 mm in thickness.

Figures 12(a) and 12(b) illustrate an embodiment of a retainer 510 for retaining a longitudinal resistance component (e.g. one of resistance components 500, 500A or another selected longitudinal resistance component) on the rest of the apparatus. The retainer 510 is adapted to be fitted to one of the end caps 40, 42 to secure the longitudinal resistance component between the retainer 510 and at least one vane element (or other resistance element) of an exercise apparatus. In this embodiment the retainer 510 comprises a sleeve part 512 defining a cavity or passageway 514 therein, and an opening 516 at a first end thereof. The second end of the retainer could provide a further opening (for example the retainer could be in the form of a generally cylindrical tube) but in the illustrated embodiment the second end is closed off by an end wall 518. The retainer 510 is made from a deformable and at least somewhat resilient material and the passageway is adapted to receive one of the end caps 40, 42 at least partially therein and to be retained securely on the end cap due to an appropriately tight fit, the resilient/deformable quality of the retainer 510, and friction and/or interference between the outer surface of the end cap and an internal wall of the retainer which defines the cavity or passageway 514. One or both of the outer surface of the end cap 40, 42 and an internal wall of the retainer 510 which defines the cavity or passageway 514, may be provided with ridges grooves or projections, which enhance security of the friction/interference fit. However the connection is arranged so that the retainer 512 can be manually removed from the end cap 40, 42 when desired. The retainer 512 may be made of a suitable rubber, and may be similar in form to a commercially sold rubber 'foot' for attachment to the bottom of a leg of an item of furniture.

Figure 13 shows the longitudinal resistance component 500 of Figure 1 1 (a) and the retainer 510 of Figures 12(a) and 12(b), in cross section, in use on an exercise apparatus.

In use, the described embodiments provide exercise apparatus which can be used in water to provide resistance to movement of a user, and especially resistance to movement of a user's hands. This allows the arms to be effectively exercised. An effective mode of use is with a user standing in a body of liquid such as a swimming pool. The apparatus may be entirely immersed during use.

Without wishing to be limited by theory, fluid drag is often taken to provide a resistive force proportional to the square of the velocity of the object relative to the fluid. A considerable increase in the resistive force can therefore be obtained by increasing the speed of movement of the apparatus through the fluid. However, unlike weights, which are often used for resistance training, the apparatus allows a user to stop at any point during an exercise without concern that excessive force will be required to control the apparatus, since cessation of applied force will allow the movement of the apparatus through the liquid to slow or cease, reducing or negating the resistive force. The described embodiments can be converted from a working arrangement to transportation or storage arrangement without difficulty, adding to the convenience.

Further, a user may adjust the resistance to be provided at a given speed of movement through the liquid by selecting desired sizes of vane members prior to beginning exercise.

It will be appreciated that vane members of different sizes may be fitted together to provide a cruciform arrangement of vanes. For example, a level of resistance between that offered by a cruciform arrangement of two 100mm vane members and that offered by a cruciform arrangement of two 150mm vane members could be provided by a cruciform arrangement of one 100mm vane member and one 150mm vane member. Similarly a level of resistance between that offered by a cruciform arrangement of two 150mm vane members and that offered by a cruciform arrangement of two 200mm vane members could be provided by a cruciform arrangement of one 150mm vane member and one 200mm vane member. The differently sized vane members may be differently coloured to aid identification.

Further the apparatus may be made from a suitable plastic, so that it is light and easy to transport. In embodiments in which the vane members are substantially in the form of flat plates, the apparatus is compact when disassembled and easy to transport and/or store. It is preferred that the apparatus in use is substantially neutrally buoyant, so that the force to be overcome is substantially the resistance to movement provided by the liquid, rather than a result of the weight or buoyancy of the exercise apparatus. The resistive force will be in the direction opposite to the movement of the apparatus, allowing resistance to be provided in any direction.

In contrast, many known resistance exercise apparatuses provide resistance in a single direction. For example, weights rely on gravity and provide a downwards force against which a user may work. This means that a user lifting and lowering a weight in a simple motion will typically exercise the same muscles whether the weight is being raised or lowered. Pulley systems or the like can be used to allow resistance in other directions, but this adds to the complexity and cost. The elderly or infirm, or those utilising a great deal of weight may also encounter difficulty if it is desired to cease using a weight part way through a movement. Similarly, resistance bands provide a force in the direction of extension of the band, meaning that provision of resistance in different directions may require rearrangement of the band. Like weights, cessation of use of a resistance band part way through a movement may be problematic.

The described embodiments therefore provide definite advantages over these known types of resistance exercise apparatus.

Modifications and improvements to the described embodiments may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention.