CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is a non-provisional of United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/713,372 titled“Exercise Device and Methods of Use”, filed August 1, 2018, which is incorporated herein as if set out in full.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Many of the largest and strongest muscles in the body act on, or attach around, the hip structure. This results in the hips and core being the primary power source for many movements in sports. In addition, the hip joint is a ball and socket joint and the second most mobile joint within the body. Due to the sitting demands of today’s society as well as much of our life and activities being in the sagittal (straight forward/backward) plane, there is often dysfunction in strength and mobility around the hips.

[0003] Weakness of the hip and core have been linked to multiple injuries and pain symptoms of the lower extremity and lumbar spine. Hip weakness combined with poor trunk control (core stability) are considered the largest modifiable risk factor in non-contact knee injury. Specifically, weakness of hip abduction and external rotation results in what is termed“dynamic valgus”. This position can be seen in athletes who lack appropriate lumbopelvic and hip control when performing foundational athletic movements like squatting, cutting or landing from a jump.

[0004] Weakness of the hip musculature, particularly hip abductors and external rotators, have been associated with many lower extremity injuries. Poor lumbopelvic control has been linked to increased risk of ACL injury, patella tendinopathy/tendonitis, meniscus injury, patellafemoral pain syndrome, hip impingement and labral tears, Achilles tendonapthy/tendonitis, and ankle sprains. Due to the fact that the hip is a ball and socket joint, there are multiple degrees of freedom (planes of motion). The knee has less degrees of freedom and can become stressed and painful when there are faulty movements at the hip joint. The hip joint is home to the body’s largest and strongest muscles in the entire body; because of this, much of the power generated for sports comes from the hip and pelvis region. Without proper mechanics of motion and stability, this power will be lost due to poor direction of force, poor energy transfer and an increased risk of injury.

[0005] What is needed is an exercise device that addresses the basic but essential components of proper hip and core function. Such a device should function as a movement primer to stimulate neuromotor control and activation of the essential muscles and planes of motion that are foundational to all athletes. While these exercises won’t replace sport specific warm-ups, they should be the catalyst to increase blood flow, neuromuscular activation and optimize function within the key muscles of the hip and core in order to maximize the remainder of the warm-up in preparation for best performance.

SUMMARY

[0006] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary, and the foregoing Background, is not intended to identify key aspects or essential aspects of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, this Summary is not intended for use as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] The present disclosure provides various embodiments of an exercise device and methods of use. The exercise device includes a deformably resilient, continuous looped cord, a sleeve disposed coaxially about the cord, and first and second pads disposed coaxially about the cord and sleeve. In some embodiments, the cord is formed from latex tubing or bands. The sleeve, in particular embodiments, is formed from a nylon material. In various embodiments, each pad is formed from a high density closed cell foam. The first and second pads are positioned to be the outmost layer of the exercise device to engage the user’s skin. [0008] In various embodiments, the total length of the two pads equals or approaches 100% of the length of the cord. In some embodiments, the total length of the pads, falls in the ratio of 65% to 100% of the length of the cord or various smaller ranges up to a ratio of 95% to 100% of the length of the cord.

[0009] In various embodiments, the exercise device is constructed to exhibit a 4: 1 stretch ratio with regard to the length of the sleeve. The 4: 1 stretch ratio means that the sleeve surrounding the cord will stretch four times the length of the un-stretched cord. It is contemplated, however, that some embodiments of the exercise device will have a stretch ratio of 2: 1 to 5: 1 ratio.

[0010] In various embodiments, the color of the pad signifies a different resistance. For example, in one particular embodiment, blue signifies super heavy resistance, yellow signifies medium resistance, red signifies heavy resistance, and purple signifies light resistance. In such embodiments, the different colored pads denote cords having different lengths. It is contemplated that the variance in resistance can be provided by length of cord, its thickness, type of material comprising the cord, or a combination thereof.

[0011] These and other aspects of the present system and method will be apparent after consideration of the Detailed Description and Figures herein. It is to be understood, however, that the scope of the invention shall be determined by the claims as issued and not by whether given subject matter addresses any or all issues noted in the Background or includes any features or aspects recited in this Summary.

DRAWINGS

[0012] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present invention, including the preferred embodiment, are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified. [0013] Figure 1 depicts a plan view of one embodiment of the exercise device of the present technology.

[0014] Figure 2 depicts a perspective view of embodiments of the exercise device of the present technology and further depicts one embodiment of the manner in which the exercise devices may be used.

[0015] Figure 3 depicts a perspective view of embodiments of the exercise device of the present technology and further depicts another embodiment of the manner in which the exercise devices may be used.

[0016] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the exercise device of the present technology and depicts one manner in which the cord, sleeve, and pad can be coaxially disposed with respect to one another.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Embodiments are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying figures, which form a part hereof and show, by way of illustration, specific exemplary embodiments. These embodiments are disclosed in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. However, embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0018] Embodiments of the exercise device 10 are depicted in Figures 1-4. The exercise device 10 includes a deformably resilient cord 12, a sleeve 14 disposed coaxially about the cord 12, and a pair of pads 16 disposed coaxially about the cord 12 and sleeve 14. In particular embodiments, the cord 12 is formed to define a continuous loop. In at least one embodiment, the cord 12 has a circumferential length of approximately 30.5 inches in a relaxed state. Various embodiments of the cord 12 will have a circumferential length of approximately 24 inches to 28 inches. In some embodiments, the cord 12 is formed from latex tubing or bands. In other embodiments, the cord 12 is formed from an elastic fabric. In still other embodiments, the cord 12 is provided in the form of a spring, which could be comprised of various known materials including metal or plastic. The sleeve 14, in particular embodiments, is formed from a nylon material. In a particular embodiment, the sleeve 14 is provided with a length of approximately 89 inches. In various embodiments, the sleeve 14 will have a length of approximately 65 inches to 100 inches, depending on the length of cord 12 being used. In particular embodiments, each pad 16 is approximately 14.5 inches long. In various embodiments, the pad 16 will have a length of approximately 11 inches to 14 inches or 12.5 to 13.25 inches, depending on the length of cord 12 being used. Embodiments of the pad 16 are made of a high density closed cell foam, having an“A” density. Embodiments of the pad 16 may be formed to have a thickness of approximately 7 mm and an internal channel having a diameter of approximately 24 millimeters to 48 millimeters, depending on the thickness of the cord 12 being used. The pads 16 are positioned to be the outmost layer of the exercise device 10 to engage the user’s skin. In some embodiments, the pads 16 have a round or curvilinear cross-sectional shape. In various embodiments, the manner in which the cord 12, the sleeve 14, and pads 16 are coaxially coupled with one another permits the cord 12, the sleeve 14, and pads 16 to move with respect to one another.

[0019] In various embodiments, such as that described above, the total length of the two pads 16 are 29 inches or approximately 95% of the length of the 30.5 inch long cord. It is contemplated that the pads 16 could be shaped to provide a total length that equals or approaches 100% of the length of the cord 12. In some embodiments, the total length of the pads 16, falls in the ratio of 95% to 100% of the length of the cord 12. In other embodiments, the total length of the pads 16, falls in the ratio of 90% to 100% of the length of the cord 12. In yet other embodiments, the total length of the pads 16 falls in the ratio of 85% to 100% of the length of the cord 12. In still other embodiments, the total length of the pads 16 falls in the ratio of 80% to 100% of the length of the cord 12. In further embodiments, the total length of the pads 16 falls in the ratio of 75% to 100% of the length of the cord 12. In other embodiments, the total length of the pads 16 falls in the ratio of 70% to 100% of the length of the cord 12. In further embodiments, the total length of the pads 16 falls in the ratio of 65% to 100% of the length of the cord 12. It will be appreciated that the length ratios above will be more optimal for use with various exercises and less optimal with others when considering the advantages of relatively long pads 16, as described below.

[0020] In particular embodiments, the exercise device 10 is constructed to exhibit a 4: 1 stretch ratio with regard to the length of the sleeve 16. The 4: 1 stretch ratio means that the sleeve 16 surrounding the cord 12 will stretch four times the length of the un-stretched cord 12. With a relatively long sleeve 16, taller users may perform a greater range of exercises and not“bottom out” the sleeve 16 by reaching the fully extended length of the sleeve 16 before completing the desired movement. It is contemplated, however, that some embodiments of the exercise device 10 will have a stretch ratio of 2: 1 to 5: 1 ratio. Accordingly, where the cord measures 30.5 inches, for example, and the particular embodiment of exercise device 10 will have a 3.5: 1 stretch ratio, the sleeve length would be 106.75 inches. Similarly, where the stretch ratio is to be 4: 1, the sleeve 16 will be 122 inches in length. It is contemplated that the exercise device 10 can be configured for shorter users, such as children. In one such embodiment, the total length of the cord 12 could be 25 inches in total length. In embodiments where the exercise device 10 includes a 100 inch sleeve 14, the stretch ratio would be 4:1. It is contemplated that the pads 16 in such an embodiment would also be scaled to a shorter length of 11.75 inches.

[0021] In various embodiments, the color of the pad 16 signifies a different resistance. For example, in one particular embodiment, blue signifies super heavy resistance, yellow signifies medium resistance, red signifies heavy resistance, and purple signifies light resistance. In such embodiments, the blue pad 16 is combined with a cord 12 having a length of 27 inches. The red pad 16 is combined with a cord 12 having a length of 26.5 inches. The yellow pad 16 is combined with a cord 12 having a length of 26.0 inches. The purple pad 16 is combined with a cord 12 having a length of 25.5 inches. It is contemplated that the variance in resistance can be provided by length of cord 12, its thickness, type of material comprising the cord 12, or a combination thereof. The length of the cord 12 may also be provided to be 24 inches to 25 inches in length for smaller exercise devices 10 intended for smaller users, such as children.

[0022] Testing of the exercise device 10 has demonstrated a number of advantages to having relatively high pad 16 to cord 12 length ratios, such as disclosed above. For example, these ratios allow the pads 16 to cover greater amounts of the sleeve 14 and reduce the incidents of engagement between the cord 12 or sleeve 14 and the user’s skin when using the exercise device 10. The ratios further help to create earlier resistance in the range of motion during the exercises. Where shorter pads 16 are used, the shape of the pads 16 tend to be circular, but longer pads 16 tend to be straighter. This helps provide tension earlier in the range of motion when the exercise device 10 is positioned around the ankles or thighs. The earlier resistance helps the pads 16 stay in place when using the exercise device 10.

[0023] Compared to fabric hip exercise devices, embodiments of the exercise device 10 provide variable resistance. Most of the fabric hip exercise devices are capable of a single resistance. The only way to increase the resistance of the fabric hip exercise devices is to make the circumference of the device smaller or larger. The exercise device 10 is also easily cleaned after each use. This is one of the biggest issues in commercial settings. In various embodiments, the pads 16 are made of a high density closed cell foam. This allows the pads 16 to be cleaned by wiping the pads 16 with a towel; whereas, fabric exercise deices require laundering. Moreover, with the exercise device 10, the length to tension relationship is improved because the fully stretched resistance is closer to the starting resistance (before being stretched). Elongation (how far the elastic member will stretch) is also improved.

[0024] Compared to latex products, embodiments of the exercise device 10 provides greater durability. The biggest complaint with latex bands is that they are not durable. In an outdoor setting, most such devices don’t last two weeks. UV rays break down latex. In embodiments of the exercise device 10, the sleeve 14 covers the latex tubing, which allows for outdoor use. The sleeve 14 also protects the latex tube from abrasions, cuts and other foreign substances. Additionally, the sleeve 14 serves as a barrier and protects users who are allergic to latex. Even where a latex allergy is not an issue, latex can easily irritate the skin.

[0025] Exercise device 10 is an effective tool to help promote proper movement in the hips and trunk. Its construction is more durable, comfortable, and sanitary (can easily be wiped down between participant uses) than other products. With multiple resistance options and fluid tension throughout the range of motion, it can easily be adapted for all strength levels. The exercise device 10 can be used to perform a wide variety of exercises that can be performed nearly anywhere.

[0026] Although the technology been described in language that is specific to certain structures, materials, and methodological steps, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific structures, materials, and/or steps described. Rather, the specific aspects and steps are described as forms of implementing the claimed invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be practiced without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended. Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions, such as those expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, etc. used in the specification (other than the claims) are understood as modified in all instances by the term“approximately.” At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims which is modified by the term“approximately” should at least be construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass and provide support for claims that recite any and all subranges or any and all individual values subsumed therein. For example, a stated range of 1 to 10 should be considered to include and provide support for claims that recite any and all subranges or individual values that are between and/or inclusive of the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 5.5 to 10, 2.34 to 3.56, and so forth) or any values from 1 to 10 (e.g., 3, 5.8, 9.9994, and so forth).