BALLY HOOP

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technology described herein relates to methods for improving motor skills and dexterity by using a hoop with a freely moving ball mounted in the central cavity of the hoop.

BACKGROUND

The methods as described herein relate to methods with a hollow hoop with a ball enclosed inside, where the methods keep the ball moving in a circumferential path while the body is in various positions and movement paths for uses in entertainment, training, and therapy.

SUMMARY

Methods for keeping a ball moving within a hollow hoop in a circumferential path while the body is in various positions and movement paths for uses in entertainment, training, and therapy.

One aspect as described herein relates to a method, comprising providing a closed, hollow hoop that houses at least one ball within an interior hollow channel of the hoop; grasping the hoop by, or fixing the hoop to, a body of a user of the hoop along at least one point on the hoop's outer circumference; and moving a part of the body or at least one limb of the body in a movement path to cause the ball within the interior channel to move continuously in a circumferential path about the channel while the movement path is maintained.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the method further comprises responsive to the moving, changing the moving to change the movement path to a second movement path to cause the ball to reverse direction as the ball moves continuously about the channel; and adjusting a position of the body responsive to or during the moving while keeping the ball in continuous movement in the circumferential path.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the moving includes changing a rate of the movement path, stopping the movement path, or changing a direction of the movement path to cause the ball to speed up, slow down, or change direction inside the channel.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the method is carried out by sitting in place, standing in place, or by moving parts of the body other than the part of the body.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the movement path is one of clockwise or counterclockwise, and the second movement path is the other of clockwise or counterclockwise.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the ball includes one of a metal ball, a plastic ball, or a lighted ball.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the fixing includes attaching an apparatus to the at least one point on the hoop and to the part of the body or the limb.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the method further comprises tossing an object into the air while carrying out the moving and then catching the object while causing the ball to move in the circumferential path.

One aspect as described herein relates to a method, comprising: providing a closed, hollow hoop that houses a ball within an interior hollow channel of the hoop; moving a part of the body or at least one limb of the body in a movement path to cause the ball within the interior channel to move continuously in a circumferential path about the channel while the movement path is maintained; and juggling at least one item simultaneously with the moving.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the method further comprising responsive to the moving, changing the moving to change the movement path to cause the ball to reverse direction as the ball moves in the circumferential path; and adjusting a position of the body responsive to or during the moving while keeping the ball in continuous movement in the circumferential path.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the juggling at least one item on the same arm that is moving the hoop.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the juggling at least one item on the opposite arm that is moving the hoop.

In one embodiment in any one of the aspects as described herein, the item is bounced off of a surface while juggling 104.

One aspect as described herein relates to a method, comprising: providing a closed, hollow hoop that houses at least one ball within an interior hollow channel of the hoop; grasping the hoop by, or fixing the hoop to, a body of a user of the hoop along at least one point on the hoop's outer circumference; and moving a part of the body or at least one limb of the body in a movement path to cause the ball within the interior channel to move continuously in a circumferential path about the channel while the movement path is maintained; and positioning a part of the body or the entire body to cause the part of the body or the body to adopt a different configuration while causing the ball to move continuously about the channel.

In one embodiment in any of the aspects as described herein, the method further comprising responsive to the moving, changing the moving to change the movement path to cause the ball to reverse direction as the ball moves in the circumferential path; and adjusting a position of the body responsive to or during the moving while keeping the ball in continuous movement in the circumferential path.

In one embodiment in any of the aspects as described herein, the moving includes changing a rate of the movement path, stopping the movement path, or changing a direction of the movement path to cause the ball to speed up, slow down, or change direction inside the channel.

In one embodiment in any of the aspects as described herein, the positioning includes balancing, stretching, or shrinking the part or another part of the body or the entire body.

In one embodiment in any of the aspects as described herein, the positioning includes one of a child pose, a deer pose, a cat pose, a lotus pose, or a shoulder stand.

In one embodiment in any of the aspects as described herein, the positioning includes one of a tree pose, a warrior pose, a dancer pose, a standing backbend, a chair pose, or a lord of dance pose.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 describes the process for using the hoop.

FIG. 2A-2L illustrate different methods of holding or grasping the hoop.

FIG. 2A illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold’ which is standing up with the hoop at or above the waist.

FIG. 2B illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold’ which is kneeling down with the hoop at or above the waist.

FIG. 2C illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold’ which is cross leg sitting right leg on top of left foot with the hoop at or above the waist.

FIG. 2D illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold which is cross leg sitting left foot in front of right leg with the hoop at or above the waist.

FIG. 2E illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold’ which is sitting feet together with the hoop at or above the waist.

FIG. 2F illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold’ which is child's pose yoga with the hoop stretched out above the floor.

FIG. 2G illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold’ which is standing up with the hoop half above head.

FIG. 2H illustrates a ‘Basic lower hold’ which is standing up with the hoop straight above head.

FIG. 2I illustrates a ‘Basic middle hold’ which is standing up with the hoop below waist.

FIG. 2J illustrates a ‘Basic upper hold’ which is standing up with the hoop near the upper body.

FIG. 2K illustrates a ‘Basic upper hold’ which is standing up with the hoop below the waist.

FIG. 2L illustrates a ‘Basic lower hold’ which is standing up with the hoop near mid body.

FIG. 3A illustrates attaching the hoop at the ankle (110) or foot (112).

FIG. 3B illustrates gripping the hoop with both hands with the thumbs of both hands closest to the top of the hoop (FIG. 4).

FIG. 3C illustrates gripping the hoop with both hands with the thumbs of both hands closet to the bottom of the hoop (FIG. 4).

FIG. 3D illustrates gripping the hoop with both hands: the right hand positioned with the thumb closest to the top of the hoop (FIG. 4) and the left hand positioned with the thumb closest to the bottom of the hoop (FIG. 4).

FIG. 3E illustrates gripping the hoop with both hands: the left hand positioned with the thumb closest to the top of the hoop (FIG. 4) and the right hand positioned with the thumb closest to the bottom of the hoop (FIG. 4).

FIG. 4 illustrates all of the different locations on the hoop and their notations where the hand, the ankle, or the foot can be gripped or attached to the hoop.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without undue experimentation and without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. The means, materials, and steps for carrying out various disclosed functions may take a variety of alternative forms without departing from the invention.

Thus the expressions “means to . . . ” and” means for . . . ”, or any method step language, as may be found in the specification above and/or in the claims below, followed by a functional statement, are intended to define and cover whatever structural, physical, chemical or electrical element or structure, or whatever method step, which may now or in the future exist which carries out the recited function, whether or not precisely equivalent to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed in the specification above, i.e., other means or steps for carrying out the same functions can be used; and it is intended that such expressions be given their broadest interpretation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The technology described herein relates to methods utilizing a hoop with a ball freely moving in an inner chamber of the hoop, where movements involving the hoop require the ball to move circumferentially in either a clockwise or counterclockwise motion. Movements either be in place or actively moving the rest of the body.

Definitions

As used herein, the term “hoop” refers to, according to the present invention, formed of a tube comprising of an inner diameter, an outer diameter, and an internal hollow channel. The tube can be formed in the shape of a circle, of an oval, or of a figure-8. The tube can be made of any material. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to such as a resinous plastic material of the type commonly employed in similar hoops. For example, it is contemplated that a relatively stiff polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, vinyl, polystyrene, or other similar resin may be utilized for this purpose. The tube can either be transparent or opaque. Preferably, the hoop will be made of semi-rigid plastic. The tube can comprise of an inner diameter between about 0.2 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.3 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.4 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.4 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.5 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.6 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.7 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.8 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.9 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 1.0 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 1.1 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 1.2 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 1.3 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 1.4 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 1.5 inches and about 1.6 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.2 inches and about 1.3 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.5 inches and about 1.2 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.8 inches and about 1.1 inches, an inner diameter between about 0.9 inches and about 1.1 inches. Preferably, the inner diameter of the ball is 1.0 inches. The tube can comprise of an outer diameter between about 0.5 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 0.6 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 0.7 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 0.8 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 0.9 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.0 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.1 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.2 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.3 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.4 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.5 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.6 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.7 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.8 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.9 inches and about 2.0 inches, an outer diameter between about 0.5 inches and about 1.7 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.0 inches and about 1.7 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.3 inches and about 1.6 inches, an outer diameter between about 1.4 inches and about 1.6 inches. Preferably, the outer diameter of the tube is 1.5 inches.

In accordance with conventional practice, the ends of the tube are joined together or “closed” to form the hoop by a connector plug (not shown), wherein the connector plug may optionally be itself hollow so that the particulate material within the tube may optionally flow past the connector plug. In accordance with standard practice, the connector plug has an outer dimension sufficiently close to the internal dimensions of the tube so as to provide a good tight friction fit. Alternatively, or in addition to the friction fit, two 1 and ½ pieces in length duct tape is wrapped around the tube or staples are driven through the tube or the connector plug from the exterior of the tube.

A strap can be attached to any point along the outer circumference of the hoop. The strap can be affixed around the upper torso of the user, on the ankle of the user, on the foot of the user, on the wrist of the user, or on the hand of the user. Preferably, the strap is placed around the ankle or foot. The strap can be of any material. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to cloth, plastic, duct tape, hook and fastener, and rope. The strap can be held together by a fastener. Exemplary fasteners include a button, a hook and fastener, a zipper, an adhesive, a stitch, etc.

A ball, as described herein, will be found within the internal hollow chamber of the hoop. The ball can be made of any material. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to metal, plastic, wood, rubber, or the like. Preferably the ball will comprise of steel. Preferably the ball will have one component comprise of a luminescent quality. The ball can comprise of a diameter of between about 0.1 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.2 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.3 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.4 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.5 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.6 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.7 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.8 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.9 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 1.0 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 1.1 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 1.2 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 1.3 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 1.4 inches and about 1.5 inches, a diameter between about 0.1 inches and about 1.4 inches, a diameter between about 0.3 inches and about 1.3 inches, a diameter between about 0.4 inches and about 1.2 inches, a diameter between about 0.7 inches and about 1.0 inches, a diameter between about 0.8 inches and about 1.0 inches, a diameter between about 0.8 inches and about 0.9 inches. Preferable the ball will comprise of a diameter of about ⅞ inches.

The movement path of the ball can be either in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction, which is also known as the circumferential path and will be referred to herein as “circumferential path”. The movement path of the hand, foot, or fixed part on the hoop's circumference will be referred to as “movement path” herein. As used herein, the term “move continuously” refers to the ball making a 360° motion in the hollow chamber either in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

The movement path can undergo a change of rate of speed caused by the grasping of fixed part on the hoop. This change of rate includes stopping the movement path or changing a direction of the movement path to cause the ball to speed up, slow down, or change direction inside the channel. The speeding up, slowing down, or changing direction of the ball inside the channel is part of the circumferential path of the ball.

As used herein, the term “channel” refers to the space in the inner diameter of the tube. The channel will be hollow.

As used herein, the term “grasping” refers to at least a hand, a foot, or a strap being fixed to one point on the hoop's outer circumference (102 in FIG. 1). The point of fixation can be along any point of the hoop's outer circumference. An angle of a circle is an angle that is formed between the radii, chords, and tangents of a circle. A central angle is formed between two radii, and its vertex lies at the center of the circle. The angles from the hoop are central angles, unless otherwise noted. Two hands can grasp the hoop at least 0.5° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 1° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 2° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 3° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 4° angle from the center of the hoop, at least 5° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 10° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 15° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 20° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 25° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 30° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 35° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 40° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 45° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 50° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 55° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 60° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 65° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 70° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 75° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 80° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 85° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 90° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 95° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 100° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 105° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 110° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 115° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 120° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 125° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 130° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 135° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 140° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 145° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 150° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 155° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 160° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 165° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 170° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 175° angle from the center of the hoop, at least a 180° angle from the center of the hoop.

The grasping by a hand or both hands of the hoop can be with the thumb facing straight up, relative to the palm. The grasping both hands of the hoop can be with one thumb facing straight up, relative to the palm, and one thumb facing straight down, relative to the palm. The grasping by a hand or both hands of the hoop can be with the thumb facing straight down, relative to the palm. The grasping can occur with the crossing of arms or legs. The hoop can be grasped by a hand, both hands, by a foot, or both feet at least 0° angle relative to the floor (parallel), at least 5° angle relative to the floor, at least 10° angle relative to the floor, at least a 15° angle relative to the floor, at least a 20° angle relative to the floor, at least a 25° angle relative to the floor, at least a 30° angle relative to the floor, at least a 35° angle relative to the floor, at least a 40° angle relative to the floor, at least a 45° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 50° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 55° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 60° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 65° degree angle relative to the floor, at least 70° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 75° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 80° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 85° angle relative to the floor, at least a 90° degree angle relative to the floor, at least a 95° angle relative to the floor, at least a 100° angle relative to the floor, at least a 105° angle relative to the floor, at least a 110° angle relative to the floor, at least a 115° angle relative to the floor, at least a 120° angle relative to the floor, at least a 125° angle relative to the floor, at least a 130° angle relative to the floor, at least a 135° angle relative to the floor, at least a 140° angle relative to the floor, at least a 145° angle relative to the floor, at least a 150° angle relative to the floor, at least a 155° angle relative to the floor, at least a 160° angle relative to the floor, at least a 165° angle relative to the floor, at least a 170° angle relative to the floor, at least a 175° angle relative to the floor, at least a 180° angle relative to the floor (flipped over from its original position). Exemplary grasping of the hoop is shown in FIGS. 3B-3E and FIG. 4.

As used herein, the phrase “responsive to the moving” refers to reacting to the motion of the hoop and the circumferential path of the ball. This responsive to the moving can include, but not be limited to, slowing down the grasping or fixing point on the hoop, stopping the grasping or fixing point on the hoop, speeding up the grasping or fixing point on the hoop, changing direction of the grasping or fixing point of the hoop. Additionally, the phrase “adjusting a position of the body responsive to or during the moving” refers to moving a position of the body from the initial position of the body when grasping or fixing the hoop's outer circumference. This adjustment can include, but not be limited to, raising or lowering a limb of the body, moving the center of mass closer to or away from the grasping or fixing point on the hoop, bending a leg or an arm that is grasping the hoop's outer circumference. The adjustment can be responsive to or carried out during the moving.

As used herein, the phrase “continuous movement” or “continuous motion” refers to the ball moving along the circumferential path, in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction at 360°, without stopping, though the ball's velocity can change throughout its journey along the circumferential path.

In some embodiments as described herein, the hoop can be placed in different body positions. These positions can be either performed lying on the floor, sitting, kneeling, or standing. The terms “middle”, “lower”, and “upper” refer to the positioning of the hoop relative to the waist of the subject operating the hoop. “Middle” refers to the positioning of the hoop at waist level of the subject operating the hoop. “Lower” refers to the positioning of the hoop below waist level of the subject operating the hoop. “Upper” refers to the positioning of the hoop above waist level of the subject operating the hoop. In all positions, the ball is kept in continuous motion. The feet of the subject operating the hoop can be placed right next to each other or with space in between each foot, unless otherwise noted. The arms of the subject operating the hoop can be at the side of the body, close to the body, or can be stretched fully outward. Exemplary body positions holds are shown in FIGS. 2A-2L.

As used herein, the term “juggling” 104 refers to continuously tossing an object or a number of objects into the air and catching the object or a number of objects so as to keep at least one in the air while handling the others.

Juggling can be carried out simultaneously or in sequence when the ball is undergoing continuous movement along the circumferential path 104. The juggling can be carried out on or by the same limb as the continuous movement or on or by an opposing limb as the continuous movement 104.

In some embodiments, the method can be performed as a solo activity. In some other embodiments, the method can be performed as a group activity. Examples include, but are not limited to a juggling troupe, a yoga studio, a ballet studio, and a gym workshop class.

The body can adopt different configurations while causing the ball to move continuously about the channel. Some of these configurations are yoga positions. Any yoga position that is recognized and that can be performed without physical harm to the user while operating the hoop can be used while causing the ball to move continuously about the channel. Some exemplary yoga positions are described herein. At a rest position 100 (see FIG. 1), the body is not actively causing the ball to move continuously about the channel while the hoop is grasped by both hands or fixed to one or both legs 102. The rest position can either be lying down, sitting, or standing, and the limbs can be at the side or stretched away from the body at various angles from the center of mass of the body. An exemplary rest position is Staff Pose, which begins in a seated position with the legs extended forward and then the hands are brought alongside the hips while the arms are straightened 108. Next, touch the big toes together and keep a small amount of spaces between the heels 108. Flex the ankles, drawing the toes back 108. Press forward with the big toe mounds and rotate the inner thighs in and down and press down with the femurs 108. Extend the sternum away from the navel and broaden the collarbones 108. Draw the heads of the upper back while softening the front ribs 108. To exit the Staff Pose, release the arms and shake out the legs.

Another exemplary rest position 100 is to sit on the floor in the Staff Pose, such as in FIG. 2C or FIG. 2D, except with the legs extended out in front, knees slightly bent, and the fingertips on the floor by the sides while grasping the hoop with both hands 102. Then, cross the shins to bend and widen the knees, bringing each foot beneath the opposite knee 106. Allow the feet to relax, rolling them onto their edges, allowing their inner arches to rest below the knees 106. There should be a comfortable gap between the feet and the pelvis, creating a triangle shape with the pelvis, knees, and calves 106. Place the hands wherever feels comfortable. That could be palms facing up or down on the knees, palms facing up or down on the thighs, hands resting on the pelvis, or in a prayer position in front of the chest. Draw the shoulder blades back to widen the chest, and lengthen the spine by lifting through the crown of the head 106. Hold this position for one to five minutes, and release by unwinding the shins and returning to Staff Pose 106.

If the body is not in rest position, it is in an active position that is causing the ball to move continuously about the channel. The positioning includes balancing, stretching, or shrinking the part or another part of the body or the entire body 108. The hoop can be held or attached on the torso, parallel to the waist but not around the waist, can be held or attached above the waist, or can be held or attached below the waist 102. The hoop can be held while performing various yoga poses 108. These yoga poses include, but are not limited to Deer Pose, Child Pose, Cat Pose, Lotus Pose, Shoulder Stand, Tree Pose, Warrior Pose, Standing Backbend, Chair Pose, or a Lord of Dance Pose 108. Any yoga pose used must include the ball moving in a continuous movement path 106.

Yoga poses and positions promote strengthening the physical body and control, calm, and focus the mind. These poses and positions are grouped based on their energetic and physical effects on the body. Yoga poses and positions can be grouped as seated yoga poses, standing yoga poses, supine yoga poses, prone yoga poses, backbend yoga poses, balancing yoga poses, core strength poses, forward bending poses, hip opening poses, twisting yoga poses, side bending yoga poses. Yoga poses and positions can be categorized in multiple groups (e.g., the Tree Pose can be categorized as both a standing yoga pose and a balancing yoga pose).

Deer Pose comprises of starting from a seated position, such as shown in FIG. 2E, except the soles of the feet are brought together a comfortable distance away from the pelvis 100 while grasping the hoop with both hands 102. The body folds forward from the hips, allowing the spin to round and placing the hands in front of the body. The legs and spine are relaxed and the position is held for at least 3 minutes. In order to come out of the pose, the hands are used to push the body away from the floor and the spine slowly unrolls. The hands are used to bring the knees towards each other. The arms are placed behind the body and the torso leans back to release the hips and straighten the legs. One leg is swung behind the body. Ideally, both legs are a 90° angle. Once the legs are set, the ball can be continuously moving inside the channel of the hoop 106.

Shoulder Stand comprises of starting by fixing the hoop to an ankle, such as shown in FIG. 3A, and lying flat on the back 100. Keep the legs together and place the arms at the side. In one swift movement, lift the legs high into the air, so that the buttocks and lower back rise off of the mat. Support the lower body with the elbows and use the hands to support the back, if necessary. Straighten the spine and legs and try to move the elbows closer together and make sure the full body weight is being supported by the upper arms and shoulders, not the head or neck. Once this position has been set, the ball can be continuously moving inside the channel of the hoop.

Lotus Pose comprises of starting from a seated position, as shown in FIG. 2C, except with the legs straight out in front 100 while grasping the hoop with both hands 102. Place the hands palms down on the ground on either side of the body. The body should be erect, with the feet erect with toes pointing upward. Pull the left leg in so the left foot rests under the right thigh. Then, pull the right leg in so it rests under the left shin. Bend the right knee and hug it toward the chest. Then, bring the right ankle to rest on the crease of the left thigh with the sole of the foot facing upward. Bend the left knee and cross the left ankle over the top of the right shin with the sole of the left foot facing upwards as well. When in the position, the legs should be twisted into a pretzel shape, close to the body, with the soles of both feet facing upward. Once this position has been set, the ball can be continuously moving inside the channel of the hoop 106.

Child Pose comprises of kneeling, as shown in FIG. 2F, with the knees spread about as wide as the hips 100 while grasping the hoop with both hands 102. Exhale and lean forward all the way so the torso is laying between the thighs and the forehead resting on the floor, lay the arms next to the outer thighs with the palms facing up or extend them on the floor in front, over the head 108. Finally, rest, relax, inhale, and exhale slowly. With each exhale, slowly lengthen the spine, sinking deeper down into the pose. Hold for 3-5 minutes, breathing slowly and deepening the pose.

Cat Pose comprises of starting on the knees, as shown in FIG. 2B, except the individual is also on their hands, with the back straight in a table-top position 100 while fixing the hoop to the legs 102. The wrists should be directly beneath the shoulders and the knees directly below the hips. Inhale and arch the back by feeling a cord pulling the abdomen towards the ceiling 108. Hold for a count of ten. Exhale and release the arch in the back to return to kneeling on all fours with the knees aligned under the hips and the hands under the shoulders. Keep the back flat and the head and neck aligned with the spine. The back should form a completely straight line from the back of the skull to the top of the tailbone. This forms a neutral position to move into Cat Pose.

Standing Backbend Pose comprises of starting by standing, as shown in FIG. 2A, except with the feet close together so that the big toes touch, but with the heels slightly apart 100 while grasping the hoop with both hands 102. Rock slowly and gently back and forth or side-to-side as needed until the weight is evenly distributed over the feet 108. Relax the arms and face the palms forward in a gesture of openness. Straighten the body. Pull the shoulder blades back towards each other as the bottom part of the torso angles towards the ground. Place the palms on the lower back with the fingers pointed down. Press into the feet, pull up the knee caps, and squeeze the thighs and buttocks. Press the hips forward and begin to arch the torso backwards. Keep the head looking forward or let it drop all the way back. Use the arms to support the weight and keep the legs and buttocks engaged and strong. Once this position has been set, the ball can be continuously moving inside the channel of the hoop 106.

Warrior Pose comprises of starting by standing, as shown in FIG. 2A, except with the feet close together so that the big toes touch, but with the heels slightly apart 100 while grasping the hoop with both hands 102. Rock slowly and gently back and forth or side-to-side as needed until the weight is evenly distributed over the feet. Relax the arms and face the palms forward in a gesture of openness. Straighten the body. Pull the shoulder blades back towards each other as the bottom part of the torso angles towards the ground. Centering the body, step the left foot forward about 3-4 feet and bend the leg so that shin and thigh make a 90° angle, without taking the knee past the ankle. Turn the right foot out 90°. Reach up high with the arms, either keeping the palms parallel or touching them together. The head can look upward or stay looking forward while continuously moving the ball inside the channel 106. Come back to the original position and repeat on opposite side.

An alternative Warrior pose comprises of starting by standing, as shown in FIG. 2A, except with the feet close together so that the big toes touch, but with the heels slightly apart 100 while grasping the hoop with both hands 102. Rock slowly and gently back and forth or side-to-side as needed until the weight is evenly distributed over the feet. Relax the arms and face the palms forward in a gesture of openness. Straighten the body. Pull the shoulder blades back towards each other as the bottom part of the torso angles towards the ground. Centering the body, step the left foot forward about 3-4 feet and bend the leg so that shin and thigh make a 90° angle, without taking the knee past the ankle. Turn the right foot out 90°. Reach the right arm straight forward and the left arm straight back, with the head facing forward, while continuously moving the ball inside the channel of the hoop 106. Come back to the original position and repeat on opposite side.

An alternative Warrior pose comprises of starting by standing, as shown in FIG. 2A, except with the feet close together so that the big toes touch, but with the heels slightly apart 100 while grasping the hoop 102. Rock slowly and gently back and forth or side-to-side as needed until the weight is evenly distributed over the feet. Relax the arms and face the palms forward in a gesture of openness. Straighten the body. Pull the shoulder blades back towards each other as the bottom part of the torso angles towards the ground. Move the right forward approximately 8-12 inches on the mat and slowly, but steadily move the body weight forward onto this leg. Inhale and bring the arms over the head. Slowly left the back left leg up and out and lower the torso and arms towards the yoga mat. When completed, the body should form a T with the arms stretching in one direction, the back left leg the other and the right leg forming the base. Once set, then the ball can be continuously moving inside the channel of the hoop 106. Exit the pose by inhaling, lowering the back leg and returning to the original position. Repeat all steps on the opposite side.

Tree Pose comprises of starting by standing, as shown in FIG. 2A, except with the feet close together so that the big toes touch, but with the heels slightly apart 100. Rock slowly and gently back and forth or side-to-side as needed until the weight is evenly distributed over the feet. Relax the arms and face the palms forward in a gesture of openness. Straighten the body. Pull the shoulder blades back towards each other as the bottom part of the torso angles towards the ground. Grasp hoop 102. Shift the entire body weight onto the left leg, then bend the right knee and draw the right foot slowly up the left leg towards the inner thigh. Carefully place the sole of the right foot against the inner left thigh, with the toes pointing towards the front of the mat, while ensuring that the pelvis remains pointing straight forward. Once set, then the ball can be continuously moving inside the channel of the hoop 106. The hoop can be raised high over the head and then lowered to in front of the chest during inhalation and exhalation 108. Exit the pose by unfolding slowly back into the original position and repeat with opposite leg.

Chair Pose comprises of starting by standing, as shown in FIG. 2A, except with the feet close together so that the big toes touch, but with the heels slightly apart 100. Rock slowly and gently back and forth or side-to-side as needed until the weight is evenly distributed over the feet. Relax the arms and face the palms forward in a gesture of openness. Straighten the body. Pull the shoulder blades back towards each other as the bottom part of the torso angles towards the ground, with the feet close to touching. Inhale and raise the arms perpendicular to the floor, keeping your arms parallel with each other. Exhale and bend your knees, sinking your pelvis straight down as you try to make your thighs as parallel with the floor as possible. The knees will project out over the feet, and the torso will lean slightly forward over the thighs until the front torso forms approximately a right angle with the tops of the thighs. Keep the inner thighs parallel to each other and press the heads of the thigh bones down toward the heels. Firm your shoulder blades against the back. Take your tailbone down toward the floor to keep the lower back long. Stay for 30 seconds to one minute while continuously moving the ball inside the channel 106. To come out of this pose straighten your knees with an inhalation, lifting strongly through the arms 108. Exhale and release your arms to your sides into the original position 108.

Lord of Dance pose comprises of starting by standing, as shown in FIG. 2A, except with the feet close together so that the big toes touch, but with the heels slightly apart 100. Rock slowly and gently back and forth or side-to-side as needed until the weight is evenly distributed over the feet. Relax the arms and face the palms forward in a gesture of openness. Straighten the body. Pull the shoulder blades back towards each other as the bottom part of the torso angles towards the ground. Slowly bend right leg backward and grab right ankle with right hand. Pull right leg upwards as far as possible, extending the left arm straight out in front. Hold pose for 30-60 seconds. Exit pose by returning to the original pose. Repeat on opposite side.

“Chair Yoga”, as used herein, is a form of yoga that is practiced sitting on a chair or standing using a chair for support. It is also known as adaptive yoga. Any yoga position that is recognized can be performed with chair yoga. However, these yoga positions, including the ones as described herein, have been adapted to allow an individual to either sit on the chair or use the chair as balance. Chair yoga is designed for people who are unable to follow a standard yoga class through age, illness, or disability. When moving the ball to run continuously around the inside of the hoop while the user is holding a yoga pose or moving from one yoga position to another, the individual may be using the chair to either sit or to balance using one or both arms.

“Goat Yoga”, as used herein, described a form of yoga where any yoga position is performed in the presence of live goats. The live goats can fully interact with the individual performing the yoga position; however the live goats can not interfere with the ball to run continuously around the inside of the hoop while the user is holding a yoga pose or moving from one yoga position to another.

In any of the yoga positions disclosed herein, the hoop can be grasped by the user by both hands in approximately the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions or fixed to the user's legs or arms as disclosed herein and manipulated by the user to cause the ball to run continuously around the inside of the hoop while the user is holding a yoga pose or moving from one yoga position to another. When the hoop is fixed to the legs, the user can also juggle three or more objects with their free hands while manipulating the hoop to cause the ball to run continuously around the inside of the hoop. The user can cause the ball to change directions by modifying the movement pattern of the hoop whilst holding a yoga pose or transitioning from one pose to another or completing a movement sequence of a yoga exercise.

The terms “increased,” “increase,” “increases,” or “enhance” or “activate” are all used herein to generally mean an increase of a property, level, or other parameter by a statistically significant amount; for the avoidance of any doubt, the terms “increased”, “increase” or “enhance” or “activate” means an increase of at least 10% as compared to a reference level, for example an increase of at least about 20%, or at least about 30%, or at least about 40%, or at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 90% or up to and including a 100% increase or any increase between 10-100% as compared to a reference level, or at least about a 2-fold, or at least about a 3-fold, or at least about a 4-fold, or at least about a 5-fold or at least about a 10-fold increase, at least about a 20-fold increase, at least about a 50-fold increase, at least about a 100-fold increase, at least about a 1000-fold increase or more as compared to a reference level.

As used herein the term “comprising” or “comprises” is used in reference to compositions, methods, and respective component(s) thereof, that are essential to the invention, yet open to the inclusion of unspecified elements, whether essential or not.

As used herein the term “consisting essentially of” refers to those elements required for a given embodiment. The term permits the presence of additional elements that do not materially affect the basic and novel or functional characteristic(s) of that embodiment of the invention.

The term “consisting of” refers to compositions, methods, and respective components thereof as described herein, which are exclusive of any element not recited in that description of the embodiment.

Example devices, methods, and systems are described herein. It should be understood the words “example,” “exemplary,” and “illustrative” are used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or feature described herein as being an “example,” being “exemplary,” or being “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or features. The example embodiments described herein are not meant to be limiting. It will be readily understood aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

Furthermore, the particular arrangements shown in the Figures should not be viewed as limiting. It should be understood other embodiments may include more or less of each element shown in a given Figure. Further, some of the illustrated elements may be combined or omitted. Yet further, an example embodiment may include elements not illustrated in the Figures. As used herein, with respect to measurements, “about” means +/−5%.

The particulars shown herein are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of various embodiments of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for the fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings and/or examples making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the terms “a” and “an” are taken to mean “one”, “at least one” or “one or more”. Unless otherwise required by context, singular terms used herein shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words ‘comprise’, ‘comprising’, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”. Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural and singular number, respectively. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” and “below” and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of the application.

The description of embodiments of the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. While the specific embodiments of, and examples for, the disclosure are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.

All of the references cited herein are incorporated by reference. Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the above references and application to provide yet further embodiments of the disclosure. These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of the detailed description.

Specific elements of any foregoing embodiments can be combined or substituted for elements in other embodiments. Moreover, the inclusion of specific elements in at least some of these embodiments may be optional, wherein further embodiments may include one or more embodiments that specifically exclude one or more of these specific elements. Furthermore, while advantages associated with certain embodiments of the disclosure have been described in the context of these embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the disclosure.

It will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited except as by the claims.

EXAMPLES

What the invention looks like:

‘The Hoop’

Prototype components:

- 1. 6 ft plastic tube ID-1′inch OD-11/2 inch
- 2. ⅞ steel ball
- 3. Two 11/2 inches duct tape
- 4. Velcro adjustable strap for foot operated use

Basic premise: keep the ball in continuous motion 360° C. lockwise or counterclockwise.

Body Positions with basic protocol (keep the ball in continuous motion 360° C. lockwise or counterclockwise in all body positions):

- 1. ‘Basic middle hold’-standing up above waist
- 2. ‘Basic middle hold’-kneeling down
- 3. ‘Basic middle hold’-cross leg sitting right leg on top of left foot
- 4. ‘Basic middle hold-cross leg sitting left foot in front of right leg
- 5. ‘Basic middle hold’-sitting feet together
- 6. ‘Basic middle hold’-child's pose yoga
- 7. ‘Basic middle hold’-standing up pole half above head
- 8. ‘Basic lower hold’-standing up pole straight above head
- 9. ‘Basic middle hold’-standing up below waist
- 10. ‘Basic upper hold’-standing up upper body
- 11. ‘Basic upper hold’-standing up below waist
- 12. ‘Basic lower hold’-standing up mid body

Kinds of grips non-crossing:

- 13. ‘Basic middle grip’-handshake like
- 14. Upside down middle grip-‘Upside down handshake’
- 15. Mix basic/upside down middle grip-right hand is ‘handshake like’, left hand is ‘upside down handshake’
- 16. Mix basic/upside down middle grip-left hand is ‘handshake like’, right hand is ‘upside down handshake’
- 17. All of the grips: #13, 14, 15, and 16 can be applied in all areas of the hoop. Grips positions/hoops angles:
- 18. Hands together-top or bottom
- 19. Hands together can be applied in any area of hoop (all grips-#13, 14, 15, and #16)
- 20. All grips (#13, 14, 15, and 16) can be arms crossed in any areas of the hoop. The hoop can be held with one hand, the right or left hand.

Angles of the hoop:

- 21: 90° degrees
- 22: 45° degrees
- 23: flat 180° degrees

All degrees Can be applied to the above (180° degrees to 90° degrees).

Hoop planes/kinds of balls:

- 24. Frontal plane
- 25. Right sideways plane
- 26. Left sideways plane
- 27. All planes possible
- 28. One or multiple balls
- 29. Balls-steel or alternative metal construction. Can also include glow in the dark or LED powered light.
- 30. Comes in multiple diameters and weights of sizes

Other prototypes of the hoop:

- 31. FIG. 8 shape
- 32. Oval shape
- 33. Comes in multiple lengths, diameters, and weights to be used by users of multiple users and strengths

Purpose: What is it used for: Entertainment

Purpose What is it used for?

Multipurpose-An expanded version of the classic hoop to engage and motivate users of all ages and skills. The ball in constant motion keeps the user in constant motion too. The ball and hoop can be manipulated in nearly endless positions and motions.

- 1. Entertainment
- a. Lightshow
- b. circus prop
- c. parade prop
- Physical and Mental Training:
- 2. Sports Trainer

Increase sports performance by improving timing, balance, coordination, etc. Ball lighted or not, offers visual marker. Weight resistance is a well-recognized training enhancement.

- 3. Academic Trainer

Improve academic performance by brain stimulation, scientific references available

- 4. Fitness Trainer

Burn more calories, increase heart rate, improve overall fitness, etc.

Combine use with other devices:

- 6. Unicycle
- 7. Inline skates
- 8. Roller skates
- 9. Balance board
- 10. Snowboard
- 11. Bike (open space) or stationary
- 12. Ice skates
- 13. Skateboard
- 14. Razor Ripstik™
- 15. Ski
- 16. Power vibrator
- 17. Treadmill

Some special uses:

- 18. Medicine ball
- 19. Potential medical treatment-unverified potential to treat neurological disorders like Parkinson's, mental illness, Alzheimer's, etc.
- 20. Can be used with pets and other animals
- 21. Eye vision strengthener by following the ball. Strengthen eye muscles while focusing vision on ball while in motion. Similar to techniques such as “Magic Eye” and (the Bates Method)
- 22. Dancer: can be used for dance and entertainment in response to various rhythms and beats
- 23. Can be used in lieu of a simple hula hoop

Combine use with other devices for transportation:

- 24. Hoverboard
- 25. Segway™
- 26. One wheel board

Active sporting uses:

- 27. Swimming
- 28. Water ski
- 29. Pogo stick
- 30. Drywall stilts

Hand-eye coordination activities

- 31. Walking globe
- 32. Plate spinning
- 33. Balancing objects
- 34. Aerial juggling
- 35. Tight-rope/slack line

Information

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Date Filed

Date Published

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Abstract

Description

Claims