Portable Physical Fitness Device

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S. C. Section 119(e) to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/325,837, entitled “Portable Physical Fitness Device” and filed on March 31, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention is related to exercise equipment, in particular, to a portable physical fitness device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Walking and hiking are excellent forms of exercise, and can be done by almost anyone, of any age. However, these activities primarily work the lower body muscles, especially the legs. In order to work the upper body muscles, especially the arms, at the same time, a walker may carry free weights. The free weights can be carried in the hands or weights, such as ankle weights or wrist weights, can be strapped on the legs or arms. This is cumbersome, is limited by the amount of weight the person can carry, and does not provide a tension workout. [0003] Therefore, there is a need for a new and novel exercise device that solves these issues.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention are described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any one particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0005] The invention is a portable physical fitness device that allows for a cardio engagement of the upper body and upper muscle groups while walking or hiking. It allows the user to efficiently and effectively work both the upper and lower parts of the body, thus also increasing aerobic output. The invention is also universal in that it can fit and work for almost anyone, of any age or size.

[0006] It can also be used stationary, almost anywhere, allowing for a resistance and tension workout at any time. Further, unlike current resistance bands that need to be attached to a wall, bench, door, beam, or other fixed structure, this invention does not require attachment to any external structure.

[0007] Various embodiments of the invention also provide additional back support for the user and attachment options for accessories. The portable physical fitness device can fold up and out of the way, making it fashionable and not bulky. The invention can be used to target a wide variety of upper body muscle groups and is light and convenient.

[0008] The invention comprises a waist belt with two resistance bands attached to it, one for each arm. Each resistance band has a handle end and a connecting end. The resistance bands are long enough to allow the user to hold the resistance band handles and fully extend their arms.

[0009] In one embodiment, the resistance bands are removably attached to a waist belt such that a first resistance band is located on a user’s right side and a second resistance band is located on a user’s left side when the waist belt is worn. The first resistance band passes through a first waist belt opening and the second resistance band passes through a second waist belt opening. The first resistance band and second resistance band are attached to the waist belt by placing a knot in each connecting end of each resistance band or using a connector for each connecting end to prevent the connecting ends from passing backward through the waist belt openings. The resistance bands are long enough to allow the user to hold the resistance band handles and fully extend their arms. The user may remove the resistance bands by undoing the knots or other connectors and may replace the resistance bands with other resistance bands of different lengths or tensions.

[0010] In another embodiment, the resistance bands fit inside a receptacle, such as a ratchet, or ratchet device, attached to the waist belt, so that the resistance bands are stored in the ratchet or ratchet device on the waist belt when not extended or not in use. When the user is ready to use the resistance bands, the user can pull the resistance bands out from the waist belt using the ratchet devices. The ratchet devices can also allow the user to create different tensions in the resistance bands by pulling the bands out of the ratchet devices at different distances. The ratchet devices can also have release buttons to release the resistance bands so they retract into the ratchet devices.

[0011] In another embodiment, the resistance bands are replaced with resistance coils. [0012] In various embodiments, this invention can also include a gel-fdled spine support, a smartphone pocket, a battery charger for a smartphone or other electronic device, a zippered pocket for small items, Velcro® or other hook-and-loop material attachments, a water bottle holder, sensors that connect to a mobile application for monitoring heartrate or calories burned, different resistance bands with different tensions that are interchangeable, loops to provide different angles of resistance.

[0013] In various embodiments, this invention can also include muscle activators such as muscle activators for abdominal muscles, which would cover a wider area across the user’s abdomen than a waist belt without an abdominal muscle activator.

[0014] For example, in one embodiment, a portable physical fitness device is disclosed comprising a waist belt for fitting around a user’s waist comprising a first waist belt opening, a second waist belt opening, a first waist belt end, and a second waist belt end; a pocket; an adjustable waist belt closure; a first resistance band comprising a first handle end, a first handle comprising a first gripping portion, a first strap portion, a first fastener, and wherein the first fastener attaches the first handle to the first resistance band at the first handle end; a first connecting end wherein the first resistance band passes through the first opening in the waist belt to removably attach the first resistance band to the waist belt with a first resistance band knot; a second resistance band comprising a second handle end, a second handle comprising a second gripping portion, a second strap portion, a second fastener; and wherein the second fastener attaches the second handle to the second resistance band at the second handle end; a second connecting end; and wherein the second resistance band passes through the second opening in the waist belt to removably attach the second resistance band to the waist belt with a second resistance band knot. [0015] In this embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can further comprise wherein the adjustable waist belt closure comprises a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, a buckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, wherein the buckle attaches to the buckle strap, and wherein the connection portion is configured to be inserted through the buckle for securing the portable physical fitness device to the user; wherein the adjustable waist belt closure comprises a first fastener strap at the first waist belt end, a second fastener strap at the second waist belt end wherein the first fastener strap and the second fastener strap overlap, a plurality of snaps, each one of the plurality of snaps comprises a socket located on the first fastener strap and a stud located on the second fastener strap, and wherein the waist belt is configured to be secured to around the user’s waist by closing at least one of the plurality of snaps; wherein the adjustable waist belt closure comprises a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, the connection portion comprising a plurality of notches, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, the buckle comprising a prong, a bar, and wherein the prong is movably attached to the bar to allow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notches on the connection portion of the fastener strap for securing the portable fitness device around the user’s waist; or wherein the adjustable waist belt closure comprises a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end, the buckle strap comprising a first loop, a second loop, and wherein the fastener strap is looped over the first loop and under the second loop to secure the portable fitness device around the user’s waist. [0016] In this same embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can also further comprise a slot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack; a magnetic plate for attaching magnetized accessories; a securing plate for attaching accessories; a sensor for monitoring heart rate; a sensor for calculating calories burned; or one or more loops on the waist belt.

[0017] In another example embodiment, a portable physical fitness device is disclosed comprising a waist belt for fitting around a user’s waist comprising a first receptacle mounted on the waist belt; a second receptacle mounted on the waist belt; a first waist belt end; a second waist belt end; an adjustable waist belt closure; a first resistance band comprising a first handle end, a first handle comprising a first gripping portion, a first strap portion, a first fastener, and wherein the first fastener attaches the first handle to the first resistance band at the first handle end; a first connecting end attached to the first receptacle, and wherein the first resistance band is extendable from the first receptacle and retractable into the first receptacle; a second resistance band comprising a second handle end, a second handle comprising a second gripping portion, a second strap portion, a second fastener, and wherein the second fastener attaches the second handle to the second resistance band at the second handle end; and a second connecting end attached to the second receptacle, and wherein the second resistance band is extendable from the second receptacle and retractable into the second receptacle.

[0018] In this embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can further comprise a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, wherein the buckle attaches to the buckle strap, and wherein the connection portion is configured to be inserted through the buckle for securing the portable physical fitness device to the user; a first fastener strap at the first waist belt, a second fastener strap at the second waist belt end, wherein the first fastener strap and the second fastener strap overlap, a plurality of snaps, each one of the plurality of snaps comprising a socket located on the first fastener strap, and a stud located on the second fastener strap, and wherein the waist belt is configured to be secured around the user’s waist by closing at least one of the plurality of snaps; a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, the connection portion comprising a plurality of notches, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, the buckle comprising a prong, a bar, and wherein the prong is movably attached to the bar to allow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notches on the connection portion of the fastener strap to secure the portable fitness device around the user’s waist; a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end, the buckle strap comprising a first loop, and a second loop, and wherein the fastener strap is configured to be looped over the first loop and under the second loop for securing the portable fitness device around the user’s waist.

[0019] In this same embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can also further comprise a slot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack; a magnetic plate for attaching magnetized accessories; a securing plate for attaching accessories; a sensor for monitoring heart rate; a sensor for calculating calories burned; one or more loops on the waist belt; wherein the tension of the first resistance band is adjusted by using the first receptacle to control a usable length of the first resistance band; wherein the tension of the second resistance band is adjusted by using the second receptacle to control a usable length of the second resistance band; or wherein the first receptacle comprises a ratchet and wherein the second receptacle comprises a ratchet. [0020] In another example embodiment, a portable physical fitness device is disclosed comprising a waist belt for fitting around a user’s waist comprising a first receptacle mounted on the waist belt, a second receptacle mounted on the waist belt, a first waist belt end, a second waist belt end, and an adjustable waist belt closure; a first resistance coil comprising a first handle end, a first handle comprising a first gripping portion, a first strap portion, a first fastener, wherein the first handle attaches to the first resistance coil at the first handle end with the first fastener, a first connecting end attached to the first receptacle, and wherein the first resistance coil is extendable from the first receptacle and retractable into the first receptacle; a second resistance comprising a second handle end, a second handle comprising a second gripping portion, a second strap portion, a second fastener, and wherein the second handle attaches to the second resistance coil at the second handle end with the second fastener; a second connecting end attached to the second receptacle; and wherein the second resistance coil is extendable from the second receptacle and retractable into the second receptacle.

[0021] In this embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can further comprise a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, wherein the buckle attaches to the buckle strap, and wherein the connection portion is configured to be inserted through the buckle for securing the portable physical fitness device around the user’s waist; a first fastener strap at the first waist belt end, a second fastener strap at the second waist belt end, wherein the first fastener strap and the second fastener strap overlap, a plurality of snaps, each snap comprising a socket located on the first fastener strap, and a stud located on the second fastener strap, and wherein the waist belt is configured to be secured around the user’s waist by closing at least one of the snaps; a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, the connection portion comprising a plurality of notches, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, the buckle comprising a prong, a bar, and wherein the prong is movably attached to the bar to allow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notches on the connection portion of the fastener strap for securing the portable fitness device around the user’s waist; or a fastener strap at the first end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, and a buckle strap at the second end, the buckle strap comprising a first loop, and a second loop, and wherein the fastener strap is looped over the first loop and under the second loop to secure the belt and adjust the tightness

[0022] In this same embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can also further comprise a slot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack; a magnetic plate for attaching magnetized accessories; a securing plate for attaching accessories; a sensor for monitoring heart rate; a sensor for calculating calories burned; one or more loops on the waist belt; wherein the tension of the first resistance band is adjusted by using the first receptacle to control a usable length of the first resistance band; wherein the tension of the second resistance band is adjusted by using the second receptacle to control a usable length of the second resistance band; or wherein the first receptacle comprises a ratchet and wherein the second receptacle comprises a ratchet.

[0023] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a portable physical fitness device with resistance bands with the belt fastener in a partially loosened position. [0025] Figure 2 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness device with retractable resistance bands with the belt fastener in a tightened position.

[0026] Figure 3 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness device having a center back support and retractable resistance bands with the belt fastener in a tightened position.

[0027] Figure 4 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness device with retractable resistance bands and with magnetic plates on the belt to attach magnetized accessories.

[0028] Figure 5 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use with the user performing a shoulder raise exercise.

[0029] Figure 6 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use with the user performing a back-spread exercise.

[0030] Figure 7 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use with the user performing a chest press exercise.

[0031] Figure 8 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use with the user performing a shoulder press and triceps extension exercise.

[0032] Figure 9 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use with the user performing a bicep curl exercise.

[0033] Figure 10 shows a resistance band inside a ratchet device for the portable physical fitness device shown in FIG 2.

[0034] Figure 11 shows an alternate embodiment of a fastener for the portable physical fitness devices shown in FIG. 1 and FIG 2. [0035] Figure 12 shows another alternate embodiment of a fastener for the portable physical fitness devices shown in FIG. 1 and FIG 2.

[0036] Figure 13 shows another alternate embodiment of a fastener for the portable physical fitness devices shown in FIG. 1 and FIG 2.

[0037] Figure 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the portable physical fitness device shown in FIG. 2 with spring resistance coils.

[0038] Figure 15 shows one example embodiment of a loop for the portable fitness device of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The following is a detailed description of embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrate aspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. The scope of the invention is limited only by the claims.

[0040] While numerous specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the invention, the invention may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details.

[0041] Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. References made to particular examples and implementations are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0042] Portable Physical Fitness Device 10 [0043] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of portable physical fitness device 10. Portable physical fitness device 10 comprises waist belt 20 that can be secured around a user’s waist. Waist belt 20 comprises first waist belt end 22 and second waist belt end 23.

[0044] In one example embodiment, waist belt 20 is about four to six inches wide and fits around the waist of an average person with sufficient length for waist belt 20 to fasten. Waist belt 20 comprises first waist belt end 22 and second waist belt end 23. One of skill in the art will understand that waist belt 20 can be shorter for use by a person with a waist smaller than an average person or longer for use by a person with a waist larger than an average person.

[0045] Portable physical fitness device 10 further comprises adjustable waist belt closure 29. As shown in FIG. 1, adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to buckle strap 26.

[0046] In one embodiment, fastener strap 24 is attached to waist belt 20 at a position on first waist belt end 22 to the right of the user’s front center and buckle strap 26 is attached to waist belt 20 at a position on second waist belt end 23 to the left of the user’s front center as portable physical fitness device 10 is worn by the user.

[0047] In an alternative embodiment fastener strap 24 is attached to waist belt 20 at a position to the left of the user’s front center and buckle strap 26 is attached to waist belt 20 at a position to the right of the user’s front center as portable physical fitness device 10 is worn by the user. [0048] In one example embodiment, waist belt 20 is made of a sturdy material, such as leather, synthetic leather, a sturdy fabric, or a tough-flexible material such as cotton and elastic blends, canvas, or neoprene, which is a type of synthetic, flexible rubber.

[0049] Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that can pass through buckle 28. Unattached end 25 of connection portion 27 can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitness device 10 around a user’s waist. Tn one example embodiment, fastener strap 24 and buckle strap 26 are made of a strong, flexible fabric material.

[0050] In one example embodiment, connection portion 27 comprises a connecting material that can fold back on itself. In one example embodiment, the material that can fold back on itself for connection portion 27 is a hook and loop material. In an example embodiment, the hook and loop material is Velcro®.

[0051] In one example embodiment, waist belt 20 further comprises at least one pocket 37 attached to the exterior surface of waist belt 20 as shown in FIG. 1 to hold items such as a smartphone, a battery charger for a smartphone or other electronic devices, or sensors that connect to a mobile application for monitoring bio data such as heartrate or exertion of calories. Alternatively, other attachments mechanisms (not shown) on the exterior surface of waist belt 20 such as hooks, loops, magnets, Velcro® or other similar attaching apparatuses can be used to attach such devices to waist belt 20.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 1, portable physical fitness device 10 further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each have handle end 32 and connecting end 34. Resistance bands 30 and 31 are removably attached to waist belt 20 at locations that correspond to the user’s right side and left side, respectively, as portable physical fitness device 10 is worn by the user.

[0053] In an example embodiment, first resistance band 30 passes through first waist belt opening 35 and second resistance band 31 passes through secondwaist belt opening 36 in waist belt 20. First resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31 are attached to waist belt 20 with knot 38 in connecting end 34 of resistance bands 30 and 31 to prevent resistance bands 30 and 31 from passing back through waist belt openings 35 and 36. [0054] Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46. Fastener 46 can be a ring, loop, oval connector, or other hardware device that fits through openings in base handle ends 32 and openings in strap portions 44.

[0055] One of skill in the art will understand that resistance bands 30 and 31 are long enough to allow the user to hold the resistance band handles 42 and fully extend their arms.

[0056] In one embodiment, gripping portion 42 can be made of a soft cloth or foam material covering a metal core for attaching handle 40 to one or more magnets (not shown) on waist belt 20 for storage when not in use. In another embodiment, gripping portion 42 can include Velcro® or other similar attaching material to attach handle 40 to waist belt 20 for storage when not in use. Strap portion 44 can be made from a strong cloth or fabric material.

[0057] Each handle 40 is connected to one of resistance bands 30 and 31 at resistance band handle end 32 by fastener 46. The user may remove resistance bands 30 and 31 by untying resistance band knots 38 and may replace resistance bands 30 and 31 with other resistance bands of different lengths and tensions.

[0058] Resistance bands 30 and 31 are preferably made of rubber such as heavy-duty latex rubber, or any other similar material that has elasticity and strength.

[0059] In order to use portable physical fitness device 10, the user places waist belt 20 around the user’s waist. First waist belt end 22 and second waist belt end 23 meet or overlap in front of the user’s body. The user then fastens portable physical fitness device 10 by inserting fastener strap 24 through buckle 28, and securing or attaching connection portion 27 of fastener strap 24 to tighten and secure portable physical fitness device 10 to fit snuggly around the user’s waist. [0060] Once fastened and secured, the user may perform a variety of exercises, including shoulder raises, back spreads, chest presses, shoulder presses or triceps extensions, and bicep curls, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, respectively. Other exercises or other variations of these exercises may also be performed.

[0061] Alternative portable physical fitness devices 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110

[0062] FIG. 2 shows an alternative embodiment of a portable physical fitness device, portable physical fitness device 60, in a tightened position. Portable physical fitness device 60 is similar to portable physical fitness device 10 except first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31 are retractable. Portable physical fitness device 60 comprises waist belt 62 that can be secured around the user’s waist.

[0063] As with waist belt 20 of portable physical fitness device 10 (FIG. 1), waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 comprises first waist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23, and adjustable waist belt closure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to buckle strap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that can pass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27 comprises unattached end 25 that can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitness device 60 around the user’s waist. Portable physical fitness device 60 further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistance band handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

[0064] In one example embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected to waist belt 62 through receptacles, such as ratchet devices 64. Ratchet devices 64 are mounted on waist belt 62 at locations that correspond to the user’s right and left sides as portable physical fitness device 60 is worn. Resistance bands 30 and 31 are extendable from and retractable into ratchet devices 64.

[0065] FIG. 10 shows first resistance band 30 in a partially extended position where a portion of resistance band 30 is inside one ratchet device 64.

[0066] In one embodiment, ratchet devices 64 with ratchet teeth 65 allow the user to create different tensions in resistance bands 30 and 31 by pulling resistance bands 30 and 31 out of ratchet devices 64 at different distances.

[0067] In one embodiment, each ratchet device 64 can be a one-way ratchet. Ratchet devices 64 may also comprise release button 66 in ratchet cover 68 to release resistance bands 30 and 31 from ratchet devices 64 or retract resistance bands 30 and 31 back into ratchet devices 64.

[0068] Turning back to FIG. 2, in order to use portable physical fitness device 60, the user places waist belt 62 around the user’s waist, as described with respect to FIG. 1. Once fastened as described with respect to FIG. 1, the user can perform the exercises such as those shown in FIGS. 5-9. The user can adjust the tension of resistance bands 30 and 31 by lengthening (to decrease tension) or shortening (to increase tension) the length of resistance bands 30 and 31 by using ratchet devices 64 to retract or extend resistance bands 30 and 31 as described.

[0069] The user may remove resistance bands 30 and 31 from ratchet devices 64 to replace resistance bands 30 and 31 with other resistance bands 30 and 31 of different lengths or different tensions.

[0070] In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected to waist belt 62 as described in connection with portable physical fitness device 10 (FIG. 1). [0071] FTG. 3 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness device, portable physical fitness device 70, in a tightened position. Portable physical fitness device 70 is similar to portable physical fitness devices 10 and 60. Portable physical fitness device 70 comprises waist belt 72 that fits around the user’s waist.

[0072] As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2), waist belt 72 of portable physical fitness device 70 comprises first waist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23, and adjustable waist belt closure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to buckle strap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that can pass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27 comprises unattached end 25 that can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitness device 70 around the user’s waist. Portable physical fitness device 70 further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistance band handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

[0073] In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 70 further comprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 60.

[0074] In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected to waist belt 72 as described in connection with portable physical fitness device 10 (FIG. 1)

[0075] Waist belt 72 also comprises slot 74 located at the center back to hold a gel pack (not shown). The gel pack can be a standard gel pack that provides support for the user’s spine during exercise. [0076] In a further alternative embodiment, waist belt 72 with slot 74 at the center back to hold the gel pack (not shown) can also be used with portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 80 (FIG. 4), 90 (FIG. 11), 100 (FIG. 12), and 110 (FIG. 13).

[0077] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness device, portable physical fitness device 80, in a tightened position. Portable physical fitness device 80 is similar to portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, and 70. Portable physical fitness device 80 comprises waist belt 82.

[0078] As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2), waist belt 82 of portable physical fitness device 80 comprises first waist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23, and adjustable waist belt closure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to buckle strap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that can pass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27 comprises unattached end 25 that can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitness device 60 around a user’s waist. Portable physical fitness device 80 further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistance band handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

[0079] In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 80 further comprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 60.

[0080] In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected to waist belt 82 as described in connection with portable physical fitness device 10 (FIG. 2) [0081] Waist belt 82 further comprises at least one plate 84 located on fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, or on both fastener strap 24 and buckle strap 26 that allows the user to attach accessories, such as a smartphone or water bottle, to portable physical fitness device 80 and to secure handles 40 to portable physical fitness device 80 for storage when not in use.

[0082] In one embodiment, plate 84 can comprise a magnetic plate to allow the user to attach magnetized accessories. In another embodiment, plate 84 can comprise a plate with Velcro® or other hook and loop material for attaching accessories.

[0083] In a further alternative embodiment, plate 84 can also be used with portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, 90 (FIG. 11), 100 (FIG 12), and 110 (FIG. 13).

[0084] In another example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, portable physical fitness device 90 comprises waist belt 92.

[0085] As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2), waist belt 92 of portable physical fitness device 90 comprises first waist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23. Portable physical fitness device 90 further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistance band handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

[0086] In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 90 further comprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 60.

[0087] In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected to waist belt 92 as described in connection with portable physical fitness device 10 (FIG. 1).

[0088] Waistbelt 92 further comprises snapping adjustable waistbelt closure 122. Snapping adjustable waist belt closure 122 comprises first fastener strap 124 that is configured to overlap with second fastener strap 126. Snaps 129 are used to connect first fastener strap 124 with second fastener strap 126 where each snap comprises socket 127 located on first fastener strap 124 and stud 128 located on second fastener strap 126 as shown in FIG. 11.

[0089] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, portable physical fitness device 100 comprises waist belt 102. Waist belt 102 further comprises adjustable waist belt closure 222 with a plurality of notches 227 in connection portion 27 of fastener strap 24, and buckle 229 attached to buckle strap 26. Buckle 229 comprises prong 228 movably attached to bar 230 such that prong 228 slips into one of the plurality of notches 227 of fastener strap 24 to fasten portable physical fitness device 100 around the user. The plurality of notches 227 allows portable physical fitness device 100 to be tightened or loosened when worn by the user.

[0090] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, portable physical fitness device 110 comprises waist belt 112.

[0091] As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2), waist belt 112 of portable physical fitness device 110 comprises first waist belt end 22 and second waist belt end 23. Portable physical fitness device 110 further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistance band handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

[0092] In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 110 further comprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 60.

[0093] In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected to waist belt 102 as described in connection with portable physical fitness device 10 (FIG. 1). [0094] Waist belt 1 12 further comprises first loop 328 and second loop 329 connected to buckle strap 26 of looping adjustable waist belt closure 322. Fastener strap 24 is looped over first loop 328 and under second loop 329 to fasten waist belt 112 around the user to allow adjustment of the tightness.

[0095] In various embodiments, each of snapping adjustable waist belt closure 122, buckling adjustable waist belt closure 222, and looping adjustable waist belt closure 322 for securing the portable physical fitness device around a user’s waist that are shown in FIGS. 11-13 can be used with portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, or 80 in place of adjustable waist belt closure 29.

[0096] In other various embodiments, portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 may include pockets 37 as shown in FIG. 1 in waist belt 20. In one example embodiment, at least one pocket 37 may be a zippered pocket.

[0097] An alternate embodiment of a portable physical fitness device, portable physical fitness device 120 is shown in FIG. 14.

[0098] As with portable physical fitness devices 10 (FIG. 1) and 60 (FIG. 2), portable physical fitness device 120 comprises waist belt 62, and waist belt 62 comprises first waist belt end 22 and second waist belt end 23, and adjustable waist belt closure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to buckle strap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that can pass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27 comprises unattached end 25 that can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitness device 60 around a user’s waist.

[0099] Portable physical fitness device 120 further comprises spring resistance coils 130 and 131 instead of resistance bands 30 and 31 in portable physical fitness devices 10 and 60. In one embodiment, spring resistance coils 130 and 131 can be connected to waist belt 62 with ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 60. In another embodiment, spring resistance coils 130 and 131 can be connected directly to waist belt 20 through waist belt openings 35 and 36 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 10.

[0100] Resistance coils 130 and 131 each comprise coil handle end 132. Each resistance coil 130 and 131 comprises handle 40 attached at coil handle end 132. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

[0101] In one embodiment, spring resistance coils 130 and 131 can be covered in a casing, either fabric or a thin rubber.

[0102] Spring resistance coils 130 and 131 can also be used instead of resistance bands 30 and 31 in portable physical fitness devices 70, 80, 90, 100, or 110 using ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 60.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 15 for portable physical fitness device 10, portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 may also include loops 39, such as carabiners, connected to waist belts 20, 62, 72, 82, 92, 102, and 112, respectively, to provide different angles of resistance by passing resistance bands 30 and 31 or resistance bands 130 and 131 through at least one loop 39. In example embodiments, loops 39 can connect to waist belts 20, 62, 72, 82, 92, 102, and 112 through holes formed in waist belts 20, 62, 72, 82, 92, 102, and 1 12, through additional connection loops attached to waist belts 20, 62, 72, 82, 92, 102, and 112, or other mechanisms known in the art. [0104] Portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 may also include muscle activators (not shown) such as muscle activators for abdominal muscles, which would cover a wider area across the abdomen.

[0105] While the invention has been specifically described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation. Reasonable variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the foregoing disclosure and drawings without departing from the spirit of the invention.