Patent Application
20190275403
The present disclosure is related to the field of materials for enhancing physical exercise, in particular, compressible materials that can be incorporated into athletic footwear, apparel and equipment and provide a proprioceptive effect on a person when worn during physical exercise.
It is often difficult for people who are not in the best of physical shape to improve their physical well-being and health. Also, those who were more physically active and fit when they were younger have a tendency to become more sedentary as they age, and their physical well-being and health can decline. In addition, those who have suffered a physical injury, notwithstanding that they may have been physically fit and healthy prior to the injury, may find it difficult to continue exercising as they could prior to their injury. In all of these cases, there is a need for improved physical fitness footwear, apparel and equipment that can enable anyone to enhance their exercise regime by causing them to use additional muscles to maintain their balance while exercise while lowering the amount of weight or force required so as to not overtax the person's joints and muscles and improve proprioception, especially if they had been previously sedentary or are recovering from an injury.
In The Role of Proprioception in the Management and Rehabilitation of Athletic Injuries (SM Lephart et al., The American Journal of Sports Medicine, Vol. 25, No. 1) proprioception is defined as a specialized sensory modality of touch and encompasses the sensations of joint movement and joint position. Proprioception contributes to motor programming for neuromuscular control required for precision movements and also contributes to muscle reflexes, providing dynamic joint stability. Proprioceptive receptors found in the skin, muscles and joints provide input to the central nervous system (“CNS”) and, along with visual and vestibular centres, contributes afferent information to the CNS regarding body position and balance. A sports injury or other musculoskeletal trauma can lead to proprioceptive defects. Proprioceptive rehabilitation seeks to retrain altered afferent pathways to enhance sensation of joint movement. There is a need for improved physical fitness footwear, apparel and equipment that can enable anyone to train or retrain afferent pathways to improve functional stability of the person's joints and body.
It is, therefore, desirable to provide compressible materials that can be incorporated into athletic footwear, apparel and equipment to enhance the effects of physical exercise.
A compressible material for athletic footwear, apparel and equipment is provided to enhance the effects of physical exercise. In embodiments, compressible protrusions can be added to the anterior (palm) or dorsal (top) region as well as on the phalange region of gloves used for exercising, weight lifting or running, to the soles, toes or instep of shoes used for exercising, weight lifting or running, to the soles of galoshes that can be slipped onto regular shoes, to the soles of insoles for shoes, to the bottom of exercise mats, to the equipment side of barbell wraps, to the outside of joint wraps for use with elbows or knees, athletic apparel such as pants, tights, leggings, shirts, hoodies or one-piece exercise clothing, to footwear such as socks, shoes, or shoe covers, and to fitness or gym flooring. The addition of the compressible protrusions can operate similarly to exercise equipment that comprise compressible spheres or hemispheres, such as used in Pilates and in other forms of exercising. The compressible hemispheres can also cause the user to actively hold the muscles, joints and body in a proper alignment providing proprioceptive feedback to the CNS. These voluntary movements can be repeated and stored as central commands. This patterning of the brain allows various skills to be performed without continuous without continuous reference to consciousness and can increase the conscious and unconscious awareness of the joint or limb in motion.
The placement of compressible protrusions on the bottom of weight lifting shoes on a person lifting weights, as an example, requires the person hold the body in proper alignment, adding proprioceptive elements to the exercise to assist in proper patterning of the CNS and to exert additional effort and use other muscles, such as their core muscles, to maintain balance in addition to the weight lifting exercise they are carrying out, such as bicep curls, front and side dumbbell lateral raises and the like. In such shoes, the sole can have one or more different sized compressible hemispheres, such as larger diameter hemispheres under the ball or heel of the shoe, and smaller diameter hemispheres disposed between and around the larger hemispheres. In some embodiments, a running shoe can comprise one or more compressible hemispheres disposed on the sole, facing downwards. In some embodiments, compressible hemispheres can be placed on the bottom of galoshes, which can be slipped onto regular shoes. In other embodiments, an insole having compressible hemispheres on the bottom thereof, facing downwards, can be used in regular shoes to similar effect.
In some embodiments, exercise equipment can comprise such compressible hemispheres. In one example, bar wraps can have one or more such compressible hemispheres disposed on one side of the wrap, the side that faces outwardly towards the user such that the user contacts the compressible hemispheres directly when grabbing the bar. In other embodiments, a workout mat or floor covering can comprise one or more compressible hemispheres extending upwards from the floor when the mat or floor covering is laid out for use on the floor. In some embodiments, a joint wrap for elbows or knees can comprise one or more compressible hemispheres extending outwardly from the wrap. The joint wrap can be comprised of an elastic tube that can stretch and slip onto a person's arm or leg. The placement of the compressible hemispheres can enable the user to perform exercises where contact by the elbows or knees to a hard surface, such as a floor or wall, via the compressible hemispheres.
In some embodiments, athletic apparel such as pants, tights, leggings, shirts, hoodies or one-piece exercise clothing can comprise one or more compressible hemispheres extending outwardly from the apparel. The compressible hemispheres can be affixed to the apparel. In some embodiments the compressible hemispheres can be removably attached to the apparel. In some embodiments the apparel can comprise pockets for removably attaching the compressible hemispheres at the desired locations. In other embodiments the compressible hemispheres can be attached using Velcro™, hooks, buttons, snaps, straps or other suitable removable attachment as well known to those skilled in the art. The placement of the compressible hemispheres can enable the user to perform exercises where there can be contact by the elbows, knees or other body part to a hard surface, such as a floor or wall, via the compressible hemispheres.
In some embodiments, a sock, shoe cover, or other foot covering can comprise one or more compressible hemispheres disposed on the sole, the toe portion, the heal portion, the leg portion or elsewhere on the foot covering, protruding outward.
In some embodiments, compressible material can be positioned so as to be between the toes. The compressible material between the toes can activate the nerves in the toes and provide proprioceptive feedback to the CNS.
In some embodiments, the compressible hemispheres can be comprised of an elastomeric material, as well known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the elastomeric material can comprise can comprise one or more of a group comprising of rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer. In further embodiments, the exterior of the compressible hemisphere can be composed of a durable material, such as plastic or synthetic fiber and the interior of the compressible protrusion can comprise one or more of a liquid, a gel and a gas, such as air or combinations thereof.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a sheet material can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the sheet material comprising: a sheet of planar material comprising a first elastomeric material; and at least one protrusion extending from a first side of the sheet of planar material, the at least one protrusion comprising one or both of the first elastomeric material and a second elastomeric material, wherein the sheet material is configured to be disposed between the person and a piece of exercise equipment or a hard surface.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a glove can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the glove comprising at least one compressible protrusion disposed on the glove extending outwardly from the glove.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the glove can comprise an anterior region and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from the anterior region.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the glove can comprise a dorsal region and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from the dorsal region.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the glove can comprise a plurality of phalange regions and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from at least one of the plurality of phalanges regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of phalange regions can comprise a fingertip region and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from at least one of the fingertip regions of the plurality of phalanges regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of phalange regions can comprise an anterior phalange region and the at least one compressible protrusion can comprise a first anterior compressible protrusion and a second anterior compressible protrusion each can extend outwardly from at least one of the anterior phalange regions of the plurality of phalanges regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the first anterior compressible protrusion and the second anterior compressible protrusion can be connected by an anterior connecting material.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of phalange regions can comprise an dorsal phalange region and the at least one compressible protrusion can comprise a first dorsal compressible protrusion and a second dorsal compressible protrusion each can extend outwardly from at least one of the dorsal phalange regions of the plurality of phalanges regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the first dorsal compressible protrusion and the second dorsal compressible protrusion can be connected by a dorsal connecting material.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one compressible protrusion can comprise one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the glove can comprise at least one pressure sensor which can be disposed between the glove and the at least one compressible protrusion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the glove can comprise a microcontroller, the microcontroller can comprise: a processor; at least one memory module; at least one communication module; an analog to digital converter; and a power supply, wherein the at least one pressure sensor can be operatively coupled to the analog to digital converter.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the glove can further comprise further comprising weights disposed on one or both of a back of the glove and a backside of one or more digits of the glove.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a shoe can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the shoe can comprise at least one compressible protrusion which can be disposed on the shoe extending outwardly from the shoe.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can comprise a sole region and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from the sole region.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can comprise an instep region and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from the instep region.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can comprise a plurality of toe regions and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from at least one of the plurality of toe regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of toe regions can comprise a tiptoe region and the at least one compressible protrusion can extend outwardly from at least one of the tiptoe regions of the plurality of toe regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of toe regions can comprise a sole toe region and the at least one compressible protrusion can comprise a first sole toe compressible protrusion and a second sole toe compressible protrusion each can extend outwardly from at least one of the sole toe regions of the plurality of toe regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the first sole toe compressible protrusion and the second sole toe compressible protrusion can be connected by a sole toe connecting material.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, each of the plurality of toe regions can comprise an posterior toe region and the at least one compressible protrusion can comprise a first posterior toe compressible protrusion and a second posterior toe compressible protrusion each can extend outwardly from at least one of the posterior toe regions of the plurality of toe regions.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the first posterior toe compressible protrusion and the second posterior toe compressible protrusion can be connected by a posterior toe connecting material.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one compressible protrusion can comprise one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can comprise at least one pressure sensor can be disposed between the shoe and the at least one compressible protrusion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can comprise a microcontroller, the microcontroller can comprise: a processor; at least one memory module; at least one communication module; an analog to digital converter; and a power supply, wherein the at least one pressure sensor can be operatively coupled to the analog to digital converter.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a shoe can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the shoe comprising a sole further comprising a ball portion, a heel portion and a remainder portion, the improvement comprising: at least one first compressible protrusion disposed on one or both of the ball portion and the heel portion, extending downwardly therefrom; and at least one second compressible protrusion disposed on the remainder portion, extending downwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one first compressible protrusion can be larger in volume than the at least one second compressible protrusion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the weight lifting shoe can comprise at least one third compressible protrusion, extending downwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one third compressible protrusion can be substantially hemispherical in configuration, and can further be smaller in diameter than one or both of the at least one first compressible protrusion and the at least one second compressible protrusion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can be a cycling shoe and the sole region can further comprise a ball portion and the at least one compressible protrusion can comprise at least one first compressible protrusion disposed on the ball portion, extending downwardly therefrom, the at least one first compressible protrusion can be configured to contact the pedal of a bicycle.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the ball portion can further comprise a cleat for use with a clipless pedal system and the at least one first compressible protrusion can be positioned around the cleat such that the at least one first compressible protrusion contacts a pedal of the clipless pedal system when the cleat is engaged with the pedal.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved insole can be provided for a shoe for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the insole comprising an upward-facing surface and a downward-facing surface, the improvement comprising at least one compression member disposed on the downward-facing surface, extending downwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved workout mat can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the mat comprising an upward-facing surface and a downward-facing surface, the improvement comprising: at least one first compression member disposed on the upward-facing surface, extending upwardly therefrom; and at least one second compression member disposed on the upward-facing surface, extending upwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved bar wrap can be provided for use with free weights or exercise equipment comprising a bar or a handle, the improved bar wrap for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the improved bar wrap comprising an equipment side for contacting the bar or handle and a user side for the person to grip once the wrap has been wrapped onto the bar or the handle, the improvement comprising: at least one first compression member disposed on the downward-facing surface, extending downwardly therefrom; and at least one second compression member disposed on the downward-facing surface, extending downwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved joint wrap can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the wrap comprising an elastic tube configured for placement on an elbow or a knee of the person, the improvement comprising at least one compression member disposed on the elastic tube, extending outwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved workout garment can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the workout garment comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, the improvement comprising at least one compression member disposed on the outer surface, extending outwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments the garment can be configured as a suit covering both an upper body portion and a lower body portion of a person.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one first compression member can be substantially hemispherical in configuration.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one compression member can be removably attached to the outer surface.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the improved workout garment can comprise at least one pocket on the outer surface wherein the at least one compression member can be removably attached to the outer surface by inserting the at least one compression member into the pocket.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the garment can be fitted to a lower body portion of the person.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the garment can be fitted to an upper body portion of the person.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the inner surface and the outer surface can further comprise a hood portion wherein the at least one compression member is disposed on the hood portion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one compressible member can removably attached to the inner surface and extends downward along the inner surface so as to be positioned along the intergluteal cleft of the person.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one first compression member can comprise one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the garment can further comprise weights disposed thereon.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the weights can be disposed on a limb portion of the garment.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved workout sock can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the foot covering comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, the improvement comprising at least one compression member disposed on the outer surface, extending outwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one first compression member can be substantially hemispherical in configuration.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, one or both of the at least one first compression member and the at least one second compression member can comprise one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved shoe cover can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the foot covering comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, the improvement comprising at least one compression member disposed on the outer surface, extending outwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one first compression member can be substantially hemispherical in configuration.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, one or both of the at least one first compression member and the at least one second compression member can comprise one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved floor covering can be provided for enhancing the effects of physical exercise for a person, the floor covering comprising an upward-facing surface and a downward-facing surface, the improvement comprising at least one first compression member disposed on the upward-facing surface, extending upwardly therefrom; and at least one second compression member disposed on the upward-facing surface, extending upwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, one or both of the at least one first compression member and the at least one second compression member can be substantially hemispherical in configuration.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one first compression member can be larger in volume than the at least one second compression member.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, one or both of the at least one first compression member and the at least one second compression member can comprise one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a shoe can be provided for enhancing proprioceptive feedback to a person, the shoe can comprise: a sole portion which can comprise a sole inner surface, a toe region and one or more inter-toe compressible members; and an upper portion which can comprise an upper inner surface, the sole inner surface and the upper inner surface can define a foot cavity for receiving the foot of the user, and the one or more inter-toe compressible members can be coupled to and extend upwards from the inner surface of toe region of the sole to the inner surface of the upper, the one or more inter-toe compressible members can be configured to fit between the toes of the person when the person's foot is placed inside the shoe.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an insole can be provided for enhancing proprioceptive feedback to a person, the insole can be configured to fit inside a shoe, the insole can comprise: an upper surface; a toe region; and one or more inter-toe compressible members, the one or more inter-toe compressible members can be coupled to and extend upwards from the upper surface of toe region of the insole, the one or more inter-toe compressible members can be configured to fit between the toes of the person when the person's foot is placed inside the shoe containing the insole.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a sock can be provided for enhancing proprioceptive feedback to a person, the sock can comprise: an instep region; and two or more toe regions which can be coupled to the instep region and configured to receive at least one toe of the person; and one or more inter-toe compressible members, the one or more inter-toe compressible members can be coupled to each of the adjacent two or more toe regions one or more inter-toe compressible members.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved pedal for a bicycle can be provided, the pedal can comprise a spindle; and a housing, the housing can comprise a platform, the improvement can comprise at least one compression member disposed on the platform, extending upwardly therefrom.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an insert for shoe can be provided for providing a proprioceptive effect on a person wearing the shoe, the insert comprising a loop of a compressible material that can be configured in the shape of a shoe insole so that the loop can be inserted and disposed around an interior perimeter within the shoe, the loop comprising: a toe perimeter portion; an outer perimeter portion; a heel portion; and an inner perimeter portion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a shoe can be provided for providing a proprioceptive effect on a person wearing the shoe, the shoe comprising an insert further comprising a loop of a compressible material that can be configured in the shape of a shoe insole so that the loop can be inserted and disposed around an interior perimeter within the shoe, the loop comprising: a toe perimeter portion; an outer perimeter portion; a heel portion; and an inner perimeter portion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the inner perimeter portion can further comprise an arch support.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the heel portion can further comprise an elevated heel support.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the insert can further comprise a toe cap disposed on the toe perimeter portion, wherein the toe cap is configured to cover at least a portion of at least one of the person's toes when wearing the shoe with the insert disposed therein.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the toe cap can further comprise at least one toe divider extending downwardly therefrom, and configured to separate at least one pair of toes of the person when wearing the shoe with the insert disposed therein.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the compressible material can be comprised of one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can further comprise at least one protrusion extending downwardly from a sole of the shoe, the at least one protrusion comprised of the compressible material.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can further comprise at least one pressure sensor disposed between the shoe and the at least one protrusion, or within the at least one protrusion.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can further comprise a microcontroller, the microcontroller comprising: a processor; at least one memory module; at least one communication module; an analog to digital converter; and a power supply, wherein the at least on pressure sensor is coupled to the analog to digital converter.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments a shoe can be provided for enhancing proprioceptive feedback to a person wearing the shoe, the shoe comprising a sole; an upper disposed on the sole; a strap comprising a first end and a second end, the first end operatively attached to a lateral edge of the sole, the strap configured to move from a first position wherein the strap wraps over the upper, wherein the second end comprises a fastener for fastening to the upper and wherein the second fastens to the upper, to a second position where the strap wraps under the sole, wherein the second end fastens to the upper; and a plurality of compressible members disposed on the strap.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the fastener on the shoe can comprise one or more of a group comprising of hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons and buckles.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the shoe can further comprise a heel compressible member configured for removably attaching to a heel of the shoe.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, a sports helmet can be provided for providing proprioceptive feedback to a person's head when the person is wearing the helmet, the helmet comprising: an outer shell comprising a cavity therein; an inner liner disposed in the cavity and configured to receive the head; and at least one compressible member disposed on the inner liner, wherein the at least compressible member contacts the head when the person places the helmet on their head.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the at least one compressible member can be disposed on one or more of a forehead portion, a rear portion, a top portion and side portions of the liner.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, an improved free weight comprising a pair of end weights and a handle disposed therebetween can be provided, the improvement comprising a plurality of compressible members disposed on an external surface of the handle.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, the plurality of compressible members can be disposed on the handle in one or more arrangements comprising a circumferential arrangement around the handle, a spiral arrangement around the handle, and a cross-hatch pattern around the handle.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of compressible members can be hemispherical-shaped.
Broadly stated, in some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of compressible members can be comprised of one or more of a group comprising rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin and thermoplastic elastomer in any of the foregoing described embodiments.
In this description, references to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “embodiments” mean that the feature or features being referred to are included in at least one embodiment of the technology. Separate references to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “embodiments” in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and are also not mutually exclusive unless so stated and/or except as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description. For example, a feature, structure, act, etc. described in one embodiment may also be included in other embodiments, but is not necessarily included. Thus, the present technology can include a variety of combinations and/or integrations of the embodiments described herein.
In some embodiments, a compressible protrusion can be provided. The compressible protrusion can comprise a planar surface and a protrusion from said planar surface. The compressible protrusion can be configured to be disposed between a person and a piece of exercise equipment or any hard surface. The compressible protrusion can be configured such that it can be attached to a shoe, glove, garment, sock, shoe cover or other exercise apparatus.
In some embodiments, the compressible protrusion can comprise a suction cup or adhesive coupled to the planar surface. The compressible protrusion can then be fixed to a surface using the suction cup or adhesive.
In some embodiments including those described herein, the compressible protrusions can improve the user's body positioning when performing exercises or other activities. The compressible protrusions can cause the user to actively hold the muscles, joints and body in a proper alignment providing proprioceptive feedback to the CNS. These voluntary movements can be repeated and stored as central commands. This patterning of the brain allows various skills to be performed without continuous without continuous reference to consciousness and can increase the conscious and unconscious awareness of the joint or limb in motion.
In some embodiments, including those described herein, the compressible protrusions can be comprised of an elastomeric material that has physical properties that enable it to be compressed under force and to substantially return to its original shape when the force is released. Such materials can include rubber, thermoplastic rubber, foam rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic resin, thermoplastic elastomers and any other material having similar physical properties as well known to those skilled in the art. In further embodiments, the exterior of the compressible hemisphere can be composed of a durable material, such as plastic or synthetic fiber and the interior of the compressible protrusion can comprise one or more of a liquid, a gel and a gas, such as air.
Though the compressible protrusions in this application are at times described as hemispheres, for the purposes of this specification and the claims herein, it shall be understood that any compressible protrusion described as a hemisphere or as being hemispherical can be substituted with other shapes such as a hemi-ovoid, hemi-ellipsoid, tetrahedron, trapezoidal prism or other similarly curved or polyhedral surface, or other suitable shape as well known to those skilled in the art.
Gloves can be provided which comprise at least one compressible protrusion. In configuring gloves in this manner, instability can be created when the protrusion is located between the users hand and a surface such as when gripping a barbell or dumbbell, or other like weight/resistance equipment, performing floor exercises or other stretching activities, or squeezing the protrusion with the fingers to enable exercise of muscles in the fingers and forearms while running or other lower body activity, which can allow additional muscles to be used during a weight lifting exercise without comprising the joints of the person lifting the weight. This can also cause the user to actively hold the muscles, joints and body in a proper alignment providing proprioceptive feedback to the CNS. These voluntary movements can be repeated and stored as central commands. This patterning of the brain allows various skills to be performed without continuous without continuous reference to consciousness and can increase the conscious and unconscious awareness of the joint or limb in motion.
Referring to
Referring to
In configuring gloves 10 in this manner, instability can be created when gripping a barbell or dumbbell, or other like weight/resistance equipment, which can allow additional muscles to be used during a weight lifting exercise without comprising the joints of the person lifting the weight. This can also cause the user to actively hold the muscles, joints and body in a proper alignment providing proprioceptive feedback to the CNS. These voluntary movements can be repeated and stored as central commands. This patterning of the brain allows various skills to be performed without continuous without continuous reference to consciousness and can increase the conscious and unconscious awareness of the joint or limb in motion.
Referring to
Referring to
Each phalange region 2310, 2312, 2314, 2316, and 2318, can comprise a posterior phalange region such as posterior thumb phalange region 2310A, posterior index phalange region 2312A, posterior middle phalange region 2314A, posterior ring phalange region 2316A, and posterior little phalange region 2318A, coupled to and extending outwardly from the dorsal region 2302. Posterior thumb phalange region 2310A can extend outwardly from the dorsal region 2302 and can comprise one or more posterior thumb phalange protrusions 2330 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of posterior thumb phalange region 2310A. Posterior index phalange region 2312A can be disposed adjacent to thumb phalange region 2310, and posterior index phalange region 2312A can comprise one or more posterior index phalange protrusions 2332 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of posterior index phalange region 2312A. Posterior middle phalange region 2314A can be disposed adjacent to index phalange region 2312, and posterior middle phalange region 2314A can comprise one or more posterior middle phalange protrusions 2334 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of posterior middle phalange region 2314A. Posterior ring phalange region 2316A can be disposed adjacent to middle phalange region 2314, and posterior ring phalange region 2316A can comprise one or more posterior ring phalange protrusions 2336 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of posterior ring phalange region 2316A. Posterior little phalange region 2318A can be disposed adjacent to ring phalange region 2316, and posterior little phalange region 2318A can comprise one or more posterior little phalange protrusions 2338 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of posterior little phalange region 2318A.
In some embodiments, where there are two or more posterior phalange protrusions, posterior connecting material 2360 can extend from a first posterior phalange protrusion to a second posterior phalange protrusion. The posterior connecting material 2360 can be coupled to and extend along the exterior surface of the posterior phalange region 2310A, 2312A, 2314A, 2316A, or 2318A. The posterior connecting material 2362 can comprise the same materials used for the posterior phalange protrusions 2330, 2332, 2334, 2336, and 2338, as described above. The posterior connecting material can provide additional resistance when the user flexes its fingers which can require additional effort by the user.
Glove 2300 can comprise an anterior region 2304 adapted to cover the front or palmar region of a user's hand. Anterior region 2304 can comprise anterior protrusion 2320 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of anterior region 2304. Each phalange region 2310, 2312, 2314, 2316, and 2318, can extend outwardly from the dorsal region 2302 and can comprise an anterior phalange region such as anterior thumb phalange region 2310B, anterior index phalange region 2312B, anterior middle phalange region 2314B, anterior ring phalange region 2316B, and anterior little phalange region 2318B, coupled to or integral with and extending outwardly from the anterior region 2304. Anterior thumb phalange region 2310B can extend outwardly from the anterior region 2304 and can comprise one or more anterior thumb phalange protrusions 2340 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of anterior thumb phalange region 2310B. Anterior index phalange region 2312B can be disposed adjacent to thumb phalange region 2310, and anterior index phalange region 2312B can comprise one or more anterior index phalange protrusions 2342 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of anterior index phalange region 2312B. Anterior middle phalange region 2314B can be disposed adjacent to index phalange region 2312, and anterior middle phalange region 2314B can comprise one or more anterior middle phalange protrusions 2344 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of anterior middle phalange region 2314B. Anterior ring phalange region 2316B can be disposed adjacent to middle phalange region 2314, and anterior ring phalange region 2316B can comprise one or more anterior ring phalange protrusions 2346 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of anterior ring phalange region 2316B. Anterior little phalange region 2318B can be disposed adjacent to ring phalange region 2316, and anterior little phalange region 2318B can comprise one or more anterior little phalange protrusions 2348 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of anterior little phalange region 2318B.
In some embodiments, where there are two or more anterior phalange protrusions, anterior connecting material 2362 can extend from a first anterior phalange protrusion to a second anterior phalange protrusion. The anterior connecting material 2362 can be coupled to and extend along the exterior surface of the anterior phalange region 2310B, 2312B, 2314B, 2316B, or 2318. The anterior connecting material 2362 can comprise the same materials used for the anterior phalange protrusions 2340, 2342, 2344, 2346, and 2348, as described above. The anterior connecting material can provide additional resistance when the user extends its fingers which can require additional effort by the user.
In some embodiments, each phalange region 2310, 2312, 2314, 2316, and 2318, can comprise a fingertip region such as thumb phalange fingertip region 2310C, index phalange fingertip region 2312C, middle phalange fingertip region 2314C, ring phalange region 2316C, and little phalange fingertip region 2318C. One or more of the phalange fingertip regions 2310C, 2312C, 2314C, 2316C, and 2318C can comprise fingertip protrusions 2350 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of phalange fingertip region 2310C, 2312C, 2314C, 2316C, and 2318C.
In some embodiments, glove 2300 can further comprise weights placed on the back of the hand or on the backside of one or more of the digits of the glove, either as separate weights that can be inserted into pockets disposed on the gloves, or that can be attached to the gloves during their manufacture. In some embodiments, weight 800 can be added or disposed on dorsal region 2302, while in other embodiments, weights 802 can be added or disposed on the posterior phalange regions 2310A, 2312A, 2314A, 2316A and 2318A. By providing weights 800 and 802 on gloves 2300, the weights, even in small amounts, can intensify the effect of exercise using free weights or resistance training equipment. The inclusion of weights 800 and 802 on gloves 2300 can reduce the amount of free weight or resistance used by the person performing the exercise thereby allowing them to move more freely without restriction in a natural and functional way, which can be more athletic in nature.
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In some embodiments the protrusions can be coupled to glove 2300 with heat bonding, chemical bonding, adhesives, stitching, clasp type fasteners, clip type fasteners, rivet type fasteners, threaded type fasteners, other types of fasteners, or any other suitable joining method.
In some embodiments, glove 2300 can comprise one or more pressure sensors 2580, which can measure the pressure applied to each of the protrusions. The pressure sensors 2580 can be placed between the protrusions and the exterior surface of glove 2300 or embedded within the protrusions. In some embodiments, pressure sensors 2580 can comprise one of more of the following load sensing technologies: piezoresistive sensors, piezoelectric sensors, strain gauge sensors comprise wheatstone bridges, capacitive sensors, electromagnetic sensors, optical sensors, resistive sensors and any other load sensing technology as well known by those skilled in the art including, but not limited to, pressure sensitive fabric (see http://eeonyx.com/product_category/pressure-sensors/).
Shoes can be provided which comprise at least one compressible protrusion. In configuring shoes in this manner, instability can be created when the protrusion is located between the users foot and a surface such as when standing when lifting weights, using weight/resistance equipment, performing floor exercises or other stretching activities, which can allow additional muscles to be used during a weight lifting exercise without comprising the joints of the person lifting the weight. This can also cause the user to actively hold the muscles, joints and body in a proper alignment providing proprioceptive feedback to the CNS. These voluntary movements can be repeated and stored as central commands. This patterning of the brain allows various skills to be performed without continuous without continuous reference to consciousness and can increase the conscious and unconscious awareness of the joint or limb in motion.
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Each toe region 2710 can comprise a posterior toe region 2710A coupled to or integral with and extending outwardly from the instep region 2702. One or more posterior toe regions 2710A can extend outwardly from the instep region 2702 and can comprise one or more posterior toe protrusions 2730 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of posterior toe region 2710A.
In some embodiments, where there are two or more posterior toe protrusions 2730, posterior connecting material 2760 can extend from a first posterior toe protrusion to a second posterior toe protrusion. The posterior connecting material 2760 can be coupled to and extend along the exterior surface of the posterior toe region 2710A.
Shoe 2700 can comprise a sole region 2704 adapted to cover the sole or bottom region of a user's foot. Sole region 2704 can comprise sole protrusion 2720 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of sole region 2704. Each toe region 2710, can extend outwardly from the instep region 2702 and can comprise a sole toe region 2710B, coupled to or integral with and extending outwardly from the sole region 2704. Sole toe region 2710B can extend outwardly from the sole region 2704 and can comprise one or more sole toe protrusions 2740 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of sole toe region 2710B.
In some embodiments, where there are two or more sole toe protrusions 2740, sole connecting material 2762 can extend from a first sole toe protrusion to a second sole toe protrusion. The sole connecting material 2762 can be coupled to and extend along the exterior surface of the sole toe region 2710B.
In some embodiments, each toe region 2710 can comprise a tiptoe region 2710C. One or more of the tiptoe regions 2310C can comprise tiptoe protrusions 2750 coupled to and positioned on the exterior surface of tiptoe region 2710C.
In some embodiments, shoe 2700 can comprise one or more inter-toe compressible members 2780 between adjacent toe regions 2710. The inter-toe compressible members 2780 can be coupled to each of the adjacent toe regions 2710.
In some embodiments the protrusions can be coupled to the shoe 2700 with heat bonding, chemical bonding, adhesives, stitching, clasp type fasteners, clip type fasteners, rivet type fasteners, threaded type fasteners, other types of fasteners, or any other suitable joining method.
In some embodiments, the shoe 2700 can comprise one or more pressure sensors 2580, which can measure the pressure applied to each of the protrusions. The pressure sensors 2580 can be placed between the protrusions and the exterior surface of the shoe 2700 or embedded within the protrusions. In some embodiments, pressure sensors 2580 can comprise one of more of the following load sensing technologies: piezoresistive sensors, piezoelectric sensors, strain gauge sensors comprise wheatstone bridges, capacitive sensors, electromagnetic sensors, optical sensors, resistive sensors and any other load sensing technology as well known by those skilled in the art including, but not limited to, pressure sensitive fabric (see http://eeonyx.com/product_category/pressure-sensors/).
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Workout pants 130 can be comprised of any suitable material used for workout apparel as well known to those skilled in the art. The compressible hemispheres A can be disposed on workout pants 130 so as to be over or near the joints or other desired contact points of person P when workout pants 130 are worn. The compressible hemispheres A can contact the fitness equipment or other surface such as the floor during the workout. By configuring workout pants 130 in this manner, instability can be created when performing the workout which can allow additional muscles to be used and reduce strain on the joints of person P. Exercises such as “planking” or other floor exercises such as push-ups can be enhanced by having a compressible hemisphere placed between an elbow or knee or other contact point and the floor.
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In some embodiments, compressible hemispheres A can be integral with the workout garments. In some embodiments compressible hemispheres A can be removably attached to the workout garment. The workout garments can comprise pockets positioned at the desired location, as described above, for receiving the compressible hemisphere A. Other means of removable attachment of compressible hemispheres A can include Velcro™, hooks, buttons, snaps, straps or other suitable removable attachment as well known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments compressible hemispheres can be interchanged for compressible hemispheres of different sizes or with different compressibility properties.
By configuring workout pants 3100 in this manner, instability can be created when performing a workout where the buttocks of the person are in contact with fitness equipment or other surface. Exercises can be enhanced by causing the person wearing the workout pants 3100 with compressible member 3104 to activate and engage the gluteus maximus muscles. Exercising using workout pants 3100 can cause the person to actively hold the muscles, joints and body in a proper alignment providing proprioceptive feedback to the CNS.
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In some embodiments, the embodiments described above can comprise one or more pressure sensors 2580, which can measure the pressure applied to each of the protrusions. The pressure sensors 2580 can be positioned so as to be under the compressible protrusion or embedded within the compressible protrusions. In some embodiments, pressure sensors 2580 can comprise one of more of the following load sensing technologies: piezoresistive sensors, piezoelectric sensors, strain gauge sensors comprise wheatstone bridges, capacitive sensors, electromagnetic sensors, optical sensors, resistive sensors and any other load sensing technology as well known by those skilled in the art including, but not limited to, pressure sensitive fabric (see http://eeonyx.com/product_category/pressure-sensors/).
The embodiments described above can also comprise a microcontroller 2600. As shown in
As mentioned, step 2616 can wait to receive a start transmission request from the connected device. The request can include a request to receive data from all or a subset of pressure sensors 2580. Step 2620 can transmit the requested sensor data to the connected device. Step 2624 can determine whether to stop the data transmission. Step 2624 can determine to stop transmission if a stop transmission request is received from the connected device, or alternatively, the transmission can be stopped if the connected device is disconnected. If step 2624 determines to stop transmission, the method can end at step 2644. In some embodiments, if step 2624 receives a stop transmission request from the connected device, the method 2600 can return to step 2616 to wait for a new start transmission request.
If no device is connected, step 2628 can initialize memory module 2540 to store the pressure sensor data. Step 2632 can wait to receive a start data capture request. The start data capture request can be a user input such as a button or switch. The start data capture request can also be determined by a threshold level on the pressure sensors 2580 where the data capture is initiated once a specified level of pressure is applied to any of the pressure sensors 2580. Step 2636 can store the sensor data to the memory module 2540. Step 2640 can determine whether to stop the data capture. Step 2640 can determine to stop capture if a stop capture request is received from the user. If step 2640 determines to stop the data capture, the method can end at step 2644. In some embodiments, if step 2640 receives a stop capture request, the method 2600 can return to step 2632 to wait for a new start capture request.
In some embodiments, as described below, compressible material can be positioned so as to be between the toes. The compressible material between the toes can activate the nerves in the toes and provide proprioceptive feedback to the CNS.
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In some embodiments, sock 3000 can comprise one or more inter-toe compressible members 3020 between adjacent toe regions 3010. The inter-toe compressible members 3020 can be coupled to each of the adjacent toe regions 3010.
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In some embodiments, toe dividers 524 can comprise compressible material positioned between the toes. The compressible material between the toes can activate the nerves in the toes and provide proprioceptive feedback to the CNS.
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In some embodiments, shoes can be provided that comprise at least one compressible protrusion extending downwardly from the soles. In configuring shoes in this manner, instability can be created when the protrusion is located between the users foot and a surface such as when standing when lifting weights, using weight/resistance equipment, performing floor exercises or other stretching activities, which can allow additional muscles to be used during a weight lifting exercise without comprising the joints of the person lifting the weight. This can also cause the user to actively hold the muscles, joints and body in a proper alignment providing proprioceptive feedback to the CNS. These voluntary movements can be repeated and stored as central commands. This patterning of the brain allows various skills to be performed without continuous without continuous reference to consciousness and can increase the conscious and unconscious awareness of the joint or limb in motion.
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Although a few embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to these embodiments without changing or departing from their scope, intent or functionality. The terms and expressions used in the preceding specification have been used herein as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, it being recognized that the invention is defined and limited only by the claims that follow.
This application claims priority of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/365,662 filed Jul. 20, 2016; Ser. No. 62/371,204 filed Aug. 4, 2016; Ser. No. 62/449,520 filed Jan. 23, 2017; and Ser. No. 62/516,937 filed Jun. 8, 2017, which are all incorporated by reference into this application in their entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/CA2017/050874 | 7/20/2017 | WO | 00 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62365662 | Jul 2016 | US | |
| 62371204 | Aug 2016 | US | |
| 62449520 | Jan 2017 | US | |
| 62516937 | Jun 2017 | US |
