AU2012266017A1 - Flexible weight pad - Google Patents
Flexible weight pad Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- AU2012266017A1 AU2012266017A1 AU2012266017A AU2012266017A AU2012266017A1 AU 2012266017 A1 AU2012266017 A1 AU 2012266017A1 AU 2012266017 A AU2012266017 A AU 2012266017A AU 2012266017 A AU2012266017 A AU 2012266017A AU 2012266017 A1 AU2012266017 A1 AU 2012266017A1
- Authority
- AU
- Australia
- Prior art keywords
- pad
- bodies
- user
- holding medium
- holding
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000009182 swimming Effects 0.000 claims description 14
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 14
- 210000003205 muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 14
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 8
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 8
- JVTAAEKCZFNVCJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N lactic acid Chemical compound CC(O)C(O)=O JVTAAEKCZFNVCJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 8
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 8
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 235000014655 lactic acid Nutrition 0.000 description 4
- 239000004310 lactic acid Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 3
- 210000003414 extremity Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 3
- DQXBYHZEEUGOBF-UHFFFAOYSA-N but-3-enoic acid;ethene Chemical compound C=C.OC(=O)CC=C DQXBYHZEEUGOBF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000005038 ethylene vinyl acetate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000005304 joining Methods 0.000 description 2
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001200 poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000029058 respiratory gaseous exchange Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910001018 Cast iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 206010017533 Fungal infection Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229910001335 Galvanized steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 208000008454 Hyperhidrosis Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000031888 Mycoses Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229920002334 Spandex Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004904 UV filter Substances 0.000 description 1
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000017531 blood circulation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910010293 ceramic material Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000013013 elastic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005674 electromagnetic induction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000000245 forearm Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000008397 galvanized steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000001307 helium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052734 helium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- SWQJXJOGLNCZEY-UHFFFAOYSA-N helium atom Chemical compound [He] SWQJXJOGLNCZEY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000006698 induction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000015181 infectious disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 210000000876 intercostal muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000003127 knee Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000000696 magnetic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001092 metal group alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000000554 physical therapy Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004576 sand Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002210 silicon-based material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002356 single layer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035943 smell Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004759 spandex Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 208000013460 sweaty Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000001225 therapeutic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002560 therapeutic procedure Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003856 thermoforming Methods 0.000 description 1
- WFKWXMTUELFFGS-UHFFFAOYSA-N tungsten Chemical compound [W] WFKWXMTUELFFGS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052721 tungsten Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010937 tungsten Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000007666 vacuum forming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
- A63B21/0601—Special physical structures of used masses
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
- A63B21/065—User-manipulated weights worn on user's body
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2208/00—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
- A63B2208/03—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player the user being in water
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/10—Characteristics of used materials with adhesive type surfaces, i.e. hook and loop-type fastener
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
- A63B2225/60—Apparatus used in water
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
- A63B2225/60—Apparatus used in water
- A63B2225/605—Floating
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2244/00—Sports without balls
- A63B2244/20—Swimming
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
- Percussion Or Vibration Massage (AREA)
- Radar Systems Or Details Thereof (AREA)
- Details Of Garments (AREA)
- Orthopedics, Nursing, And Contraception (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to a pad (10), or weight (10), for providing resistance to movement, wherein the pad comprises a holding medium (12, 14) and a plurality of bodies (16). The holding medium surrounds at least part of the bodies and retains them therein. The holding medium is substantially flexible so as to allow the pad to substantially flex to reflect a contoured surface of the user when in use. Additionally, the pad is provided with at least one substantially porous region (20) to provide air-flow and the egress of water vapour from one side of the device to the other. The invention also extends to an attachment device for attaching a pad to a user.
Description
WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 5 10 -1 FLEXIBLE WEIGHT PAD Field of the Invention 15 This invention relates to exercise apparatus, including weighted exercise equipment, including clothing, and swimming apparatus, including swimwear. Background to the Invention 20 A problem with existing weights for use during exercise is that they are often cumbersome and awkward to hold. Additionally, weights are generally rigid, thereby making them uncomfortable for the user, especially when running. Where the weights are hand-held, the user is then limited in what further activities they can perform, causing 25 problems the user changing music tracks on their portable music player as many people do when exercising. Existing water filled weights comprise a single chamber, usually made of non-breathable plastics material, wherein the water congregates at the lowest point making the weight 30 biased according to its position. Furthermore, when a user's limb is on an angle away from horizontal, the congregation of the water can lead to the weight moving along a 1 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 limb, thereby creating an undesirable change in the position of the resistance experienced by the user. Furthermore, devices for weight training are often not 'breathable', making them 5 uncomfortable when a user perspires. The restricted air-flow over a user's skin creates sweaty regions, which may lead to unpleasant smells and fungal infections. Weight vests are vests into which weights or sand can be put. These are often uncomfortable or are designed to apply a large weight around the upper body. The 10 distribution of the weight is designed to aid with developing bulky muscle rather than lean muscle. Additionally, weight vests may inhibit deep breathing as they apply pressure on the chest and can restrict movement of the ribs and intercostal muscles. Summary of the Invention 15 Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a pad for providing resistance to movement, wherein the pad comprises a holding medium and a plurality of bodies, the holding medium surrounding at least part of the bodies and retaining them therein, the holding medium being substantially flexible so as to allow the pad to substantially flex to 20 reflect a contoured surface of the user when in use, wherein the pad is provided with at least one substantially porous region to provide air-flow and the egress of water vapour from one side of the device to the other, wherein the bodies are substantially solid, substantially spherical metal balls retained in individual pockets and wherein the surface of the pad intended to face a user comprises a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions 25 corresponding positions of the balls, wherein, when in use, the protrusions contact the user and a gap is created between the user and at least part of the holding medium to provide a ventilation channel through which air can flow. Because the pad comprises a plurality of bodies and can flex, it provides a comfortable fit 30 against the user. Also, because the weight is in the form of a pad, it can assist with creating lean muscle rather than bulk muscle. Furthermore, because the pads are flexible and comprise a plurality of bodies that can flex according to the user's movements, 2 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 breathing is less inhibited. The pads can flex in three dimensions thereby not unduly restricting any movement of the user. The pad can be attached to a user's body in order to leave their hands free. Additionally, 5 because the pad flexes to reflect the shape of the part of the user's body to which it is attached, the user can wear the pads under clothing to enable weight to be applied during the working day. A further advantage is that the pads can be used during yoga, thai chi, pilates and similar exercises to enhance the exercise without being unduly bulky. 10 The outer protrusions of the pad provide a space between the user and the holding medium to assist with air-flow around the pad. The protrusions comprise a point contact against the user and so create channels between the pad and the user's skin, thereby allowing air to flow in those channels. This makes the user more comfortable and leads to a more hygienic situation. Additionally, the protrusions can provide a massaging effect 15 when pressed or rubbed against a user. Where a substantially elastic material is used, the protrusions are compressed against the user's muscles, when in used, which keeps the protrusions in place and provides a massaging effect, which may help to remove lactic acid from the muscles. The provision 20 of compression therapy may be useful both during and after exercise and may assist in speeding up recovery. In one construction according to the present invention the bodies are substantially unreleasbly retained within the holding medium. By sealing in the bodies the pad is a 25 known and unchangeable weight. Furthermore, the risk of the bodies falling out during exercise is reduced. It is advantageous that the protrusions are dull. Although it may be desirable to have sharp or pointed protrusions, for example for improving grip, dull or rounded protrusions 30 are preferable. Dull protrusions allow the pad to more easily move over the user's muscles. Additionally, they provide a smoother and more comfortable feeling when the pad is in contact with a user. The massaging effect can assist with blood flow as well and the draining of lactic acid from the muscle. Whilst the protrusions may be dull, they still 3 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 provide a point contact with the user, rather than a substantially flat contact that will remove air-flow between the user's skin and the device. It is preferable that the bodies are substantially solid. By employing solid bodies the 5 density can be maximised, thereby increasing the mass of the weight. The bodies comprise a metal or metal alloy, and in particular, the bodies are substantially spherical steel balls. Metals have a relatively high density and are therefore advantageous for increasing mass of the pads without unduly increasing the size of the 10 pad. Steel balls are a relatively low cost body with which to fill the pad. Other suitable metals include lead, cast iron, stainless steel, galvanized steel, zinc and tungsten. Alternatively, ceramic material may be used. Where magnetic materials are used, the material may be magnetised to provide a therapeutic effect. 15 Preferably, the pad is provided with integral attachment means. Such an arrangement may be particularly advantageous in the case of a joint support, such as a knee support. The device may be in the form of bodies sandwiches between two layers of material, wherein the material forms part of a wearable item. In such an embodiment, breathable materials may be selected for comfort. 20 The invention extends to an attachment device intended for attaching a pad according to the present invention to a user. In order to allow for the pads to be replaced quickly and easily positioned, it may be useful for the pad to be attached to a user via an attachment device. Such a device can allow for the mass of the device to be altered by replacing the 25 pad, rather than replacing the whole weight and attachment system. The bodies may be retained in a cast rubber resin and an attachment device used to connect the device to the user. Preferably, the attachment device is selected from a group comprising a strap; a joint 30 support; a substantially tubular sleeve; a sock; a band; a corset; and a harness. Multiple attachment devices may be used in combination, for example to specifically work on a limb or particular muscle group by applying a plurality of pads. The attachment device is adapted for use in combination with the pad such that it holds the pad in place and firmly 4 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 against the user. The protrusions in the device may be positioned over the muscle groups and avoid any bony regions or joints in order to provide the most advantageous weight distribution. 5 Alternatively, the device may be in the form of a body suit comprising means for retaining the pad thereon, or therein. Additionally, the pads may be attached to clothing such as shorts, socks, underwear or outer clothing. In a preferred construction, the suit comprises releasably salable pockets for retaining the 10 pad. Where the pockets can be opened and the pads removed, the weight can be varied according to the requirements or the user. Additionally, it may be desirable to remove any pads prior to washing in order to prolong the life of the suit and the pads and to reduce the risk of damage to a washing machine. It may be desirable for the pads to be permanently attached to the attachment device rather than being removable. 15 The invention also extends to an exercise kit comprising a pad according to the present invention and an attachment device according to the present invention intended for attaching a pad to a user. Preferably, the pad and attachment device both are provided in together in the form of a kit. Additional pads might be included in such a kit so as to be 20 able to vary the weight as required. The invention extends to a swimming device similar to the weighted device but comprising bodies that are less dense than water. 25 Advantageously, the swimming device comprises a holding medium and a plurality of bodies, the holding medium surrounding at least part of the bodies and retaining them therein, the holding medium being substantially flexible so as to allow the pad to substantially flex to reflect a contoured surface of the user when in use, wherein the device further comprises a plurality of bodies contained within a holding medium, 30 wherein the bodies are closed bodies and are less dense than water. The use of a plurality of closed bodies allows the material of the device to be more flexible that bodies that are joined. 5 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 Alternatively, the swimming device comprises a body having at least two substantially hemispherical protrusions on at least one surface and a first layer of holding medium on a first side and a second layer of holding medium on the second side, wherein the first holding medium is bonded to the second holding medium such that the body is retained 5 therebetween, and wherein the body is a close body is less dense than water. A one-piece body comprising a plurality of protrusions allows for a more simple construction method and results in a more buoyant device due to the increased amount of buoyant material. Preferably, the device the body, or the at least two bodies, comprises a fluid within it so as 10 to reduce its density. Where the bodies either substantially evacuated or filled with air, the pad is provided with significant buoyancy such as to provide resistance to movement in water. It is advantageous that the body, or the at least two bodies, is substantially solid. This 15 allows the body, or bodies, to retain their shape more easily, especially in the case where the user's may fall and impact the body or bodies. It is especially advantageous that the body is, or bodies are, substantially elastically yieldable. This allows the bodies to change shape if they are impacted and so can 20 disperse some of the force, thereby providing protection to a user. The bodies can then return to their original shape thereafter. In an particularly advantageous embodiment, the body, or the at least two bodies, comprises a close cell foam. A closed cell foam protects the body or bodies from the 25 ingress of water should the device become punctured or damaged. Alternatively, the body may comprise sponge or open cell foam. Preferably, the protrusions provide a substantially point contact with the user. By providing a point contact, air is allowed to flow around the device and water can drain 30 through the device, thereby making the user more comfortable and reducing the risk of infection of the user. 6 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 The swimming device may be incorporated into a swim suit or, alternatively, may be in the form of a buoyancy aid. By incoproating the device into a swim suit, it will be easily worn by a user and will be relatively unnoticeable in addition to being aesthetically attractive. Alternatively, the device may be a buoyancy aid to allow a user to remove it 5 should they wish to become less buoyant. Additionally, because it is removable it can be used by a non-competent swimmer until they are sufficiently able to swim without it, at which point it may be removed. The device may comprise a UV filter in order to provide protection against the sun. This 10 is especially advantageous where the device is for use by young children during outdoor activities. The invention extends to a method of making a exercise apparatus according to the present invention. 15 The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a first layer of holding medium; b) positioning a plurality of substantially spherical bodies onto the first holding medium, or positioning a single body comprising a plurality of substantially hemispherical 20 protrusions onto the first layer of holding medium; c) positioning a second layer of holding medium over the body or bodies; and d) bonding the first layer of holding medium to the second layer of holding medium. The bodies or protrusions are retaining in individual pockets within the layers of holding 25 medium. As such, they have a range of movement that is limited by the size of the pocket in which they are retained. This range of movement assists in the massaging effect of the device. The second layer of holding medium may be a different section of the first holding 30 medium that has been folded over to create a sandwich using a single piece of material. The holding medium may comprise an elastomeric material such as polyurethane or ethylene vinyl acetate. 7 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 Preferably, the bonding method is selected from a group comprising: high frequency welding; ultrasonic welding; stitching; heat welding or using adhesive. 5 Brief Description of the Drawings An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a diagram showing an exploded view of a first embodiment of a device 10 according to the present invention; Figure 2 is a diagram showing a top view of the device shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a diagram of a suit according to the present invention for use in combination with the device of Figures to 3; Figure 3A is an enlarged view of a pocket of the suit shown in Figure 3; and 15 Figure 4 shows a wearable device with integrated weight pads according to the present invention. Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments 20 Figures 1 and 2 show a weight 10, constituting a pad, comprising a lower holding part 12, an upper holding part 14 and a plurality of bodies in the form of steel balls 16. The lower holding part 12 and upper holding part 14 each comprise a layer of soft elastomer material, such as rubber, neopreme, fabric, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane, Spandex 25 or silicon material, and comprise a plurality of concave recesses 18 that are each suitably sized to receive a hemisphere of the balls 16. The recesses 18 are positioned in parallel rows, each row being off-set with respect to the next. The off-set parallel lines are intended to increase the number of balls 16 that can be comfortably fitted onto the weight 10 as compared to the rows being in phase. The upper holding part 14 and lower holding 30 part 12 are provided with holes 20 between the position of the recesses 18 through which air and water vapour can pass. 8 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 During manufacture, adhesive is applied to the lower holding part 18 and the steel balls 16 are placed into the concave recesses 18 of the lower holding part 12. The upper holding part 14 is placed over the lower holding part 12 and the balls 16 such that the balls are received within the concave recesses 18 of the upper holding part 14. Once the balls 16 5 are held within the upper and lower holding parts 12 and 14, the adhesive is allowed to set such that the balls 16 are retained within the lower holding part 12 and the upper holding part 14, which are substantially unreleasably sealed together. In such a construction, the 14 upper holding part and the lower holding 12 part form an outer skin to the pad weight 10. 10 The weight 10 can be attached to a user by various known methods in order to apply weight to a specific part of a user's body. Additionally, due to the shape of the balls 16, the weight can provide a massaging effect, which can be applied during exercise or as a separate operation subsequent to exercise in order to aid with draining lactic acid from the 15 user's muscles. In a further construction based on that shown in Figures 1 and 2, the holding parts may each partially enclose the body. For example, the holding parts 12 and 14 may comprise apertures instead of concave recesses. In such a situation, the diameter of the recesses 20 (equivalent to the openings of recesses 18 on Figures 1 and 2) in the holding parts is less that the diameter of the body 16. When the two retaining parts 12 and 14 are sealed together, the body is then retained in the holding parts as it cannot pass through the apertures 18 due to the differences in diameter, thereby retaining the body without completely enclosing it. The bodies 16 will protrude through the retaining material 12 25 and 14. In such a construction, an outer skin (not shown) may be applied to the pad. The holding parts 12 and 14 may be vacuum sealed (using vacuum forming or thermoforming) in order to wrap closely around the bodies. In such a situation the holding parts may be constructed from plastics material which is non-permeable to air. 30 Subsequent to vacuum wrapping the bodies 116, areas of the material of the holding parts 12 and 14 may be perforated or removed to allow the flow of air through the pad. Alternatively, 'breathable' holding materials 12 and 14 may be wrapped in non-permeable material (not shown) during the manufacture process in order to seal the bodies 16 and the 9 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 non-permeable material later removed. In a further possible construction, the pad may be formed by heat shrinking outer holding parts 12 and 14 around the bodies 16. Other bonding techniques may be employed to join the holding parts 12 and 14, such as 5 bonding using chemicals or heat. Alternatively, moulding, especially injection moulding may be used, which may incorporate over-moulding to encapsulate the bodies 16 without the use of adhesive. Figure 3 shows a suit for use with weights according to the present invention. The suit 50 10 comprises pockets 52 positioned in various locations on a user's body. The Figure is not intended to be limiting and further locations may be suitable in conjunction with an appropriate attachment device; for example, weights could be positioned on a user's head using a head-band or hat. A partial or full-body suit may be constructed with attachment means for attaching weights to a user. The attachment means may be in the form or a 15 pocket or other means for keeping the weight in position during exercise. Figure 3A shows a close-up view of a pocket 52 of Figure 3, more clearly showing that the pocket 52 is provided with a zipper 54 into which a weight may be placed and the zipper 54 sealed to retain it within the pocket 52. The pocket 52 may be provided with a transparent outer surface. The opening to the pocket 52 may be in the form of a flap, and particularly 20 a V-shaped flap. Figure 4 shows a body suit 110 comprising a base material 112 and incorporating pad regions 114. The pad regions 114 comprise a plurality of bodies sandwiches between layers of base material, thereby retaining them in individual pockets. Sections of the suit 25 110 comprising the integrated pad regions 114 may be used in place of a whole suit 110, for example, a sleeve for providing weight to the forearm only. As an example, the weight 10 may range from 100 grams to 500 grams each depending upon their intended location. Therefore, a suit such as that show in Figure 3 or Figure 4 30 might have a total weight of 10 kilograms. This is merely an example and other weights and total masses are considered to be within the scope of the invention. 10 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 The retaining parts may comprise any suitable materials, for example a plastics material, or a combination of multiple materials which may be natural or synthetic. The upper and lower holding parts may comprise substantially flat material and upon being wrapped around the bodies any required recesses may be formed, rather than the recesses being 5 pre-formed. The upper and lower parts may be in the form of an envelope rather than being separate parts. This is particularly advantageous when a chamber to retain the bodies is required. The bodies may be connected to the pad by adhesion to one or more surface or by being retained within a substrate without the need for adhesive. The pad may comprise a single layer of material to which the bodies are adhered. 10 Where suitable materials are used the pad can be heated or cooled so as to assist with hot and cold compressions. This may be especially useful during rehabilitation after injury. Additionally, the pad may be used in conjunction with induction loops in order to heat the bodies, or balls, using electromagnetic induction. Alternatively, the pad may be warmed 15 in a microwave, the pad manufactured using materials that are not dangerous in such situations. Cooling may be performed using a domestic freezer or other cooling techniques including chemical cooling techniques. It may be desirable to secure the metal balls in the holding medium using axles. The axles 20 allow the balls to rotate so that the weight is able to smoothly roll over a user's muscles. The axle may pass through the length of the pad and pass through all of the balls in a particular row. Alternatively, each ball may have its own individual axle, which is especially advantageous of the direction of rotation of different balls is to be varied across the pad. By attaching the balls in this way, the weight can be rolled over a user's muscles 25 post-workout in order to massage the muscles, reducing the build-up of lactic acid. When the weight is attached to the user, the axis of rotation of the balls may perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the user's body part to reduce the risk of the weight rolling along to the user's body part away from its intended position. 30 In respect of a swimming device, the device may be in the form of evacuated or gas filled bodies retained in a holding medium. Such a device may be advantageous for water based exercises, for example aqua-aerobics, wherein the user experiences resistance while the pad is underwater due to the buoyancy of the bodies within the pad. Gas filled bodies, for 11 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 example Helium-filled, may be especially advantageous for providing floatation assistance for children, especially when used in combination with a closed cell foam. Additionally, the device may comprise both evacuated and substantially solid bodies to enable use in and out of water. 5 The pad may be provided with bodies of varying size and/or shape to allow for varying weight or weight distribution and different protrusion shapes to allow for different massaging feelings. The bodies may be a combination of filled or dense bodies and unfilled or less dense bodies to provide an overall low weight but retain the shape and 10 massaging effects. The invention extends to a garment, for example a body suit, with pads incorporated or attached to it by conventional means. As an example, methods of attaching the pads to a suit or other attachment means for applying the pads to a user include: hook-and-loop 15 fasteners (Velcro@); zippers; buttons; poppers; bands; and adjustable straps. Other types of garment that might be adapted to receive the pads include: shorts; shirt; t-shirt; trunks; corset; legging; trousers; and jeans. This is not an exhaustive list and other attachment means may be used. 20 It may be desirable to 'layer' more than one pad so as to increase the mass of the weight. By providing a joining member to fit between the pads, the pads will hold together more easily. Such a joining member may be in the form of a layer of material that complements the profile of both the upper surface of one pad and the lower surface of the second pad. 25 The system disclosed herein may be used for exercise for fitness, prehabilitation, rehabilitation or physiotherapy. The soft elastomer may by transparent in order to be able to view the bodies so that a user can detect any damage thereto. 30 It is intended that the construction of the swimming device may be substantially the same as that of the weighted device but using a foam, and/or fluid, filled body or bodies in place of a weighted body or bodies. Therefore, the swimming device may appear 12 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255 substantially the same as that of the weighted device, one major difference being that it is buoyant in water. 13
Claims (14)
1. A pad for providing resistance to movement, wherein the pad comprises a holding medium and a plurality of bodies, the holding medium surrounding at least part of the 5 bodies and retaining them therein, the holding medium being substantially flexible so as to allow the pad to substantially flex to reflect a contoured surface of the user when in use, wherein the pad is provided with at least one substantially porous region to provide air flow and the egress of water vapour from one side of the device to the other, wherein the bodies are substantially solid, substantially spherical metal balls retained in individual 10 pockets and wherein the surface of the pad intended to face a user comprises a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions corresponding positions of the balls, wherein, when in use, the protrusions contact the user and a gap is created between the user and at least part of the holding medium to provide a ventilation channel through which air can flow. 15
2. A pad according to claim 1, wherein the bodies are substantially unreleasbly retained within the holding medium.
3. A pad according to any preceding claim, wherein the bodies are regularly spaced apart within the holding material and they are positioned in rows with adjacent rows are 20 offset with respect to one another.
4. A pad according to any preceding claim, wherein the pad is provided with integral attachment means for attaching the pad to a user. 25
5. An attachment device intended for attaching a pad according to any one of claims 1 to 4 to a user.
6. Attachment means according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the attachment means is selected from a group comprising a strap; a joint support; a substantially tubular sleeve; 30 a sock; a band; a corset; and a harness.
7. Attachment means according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the attachment means is a body suit comprising means for retaining the pad thereon, or therein. 14 WO 2012/168698 PCT/GB2012/051255
8. A device according to claim 7, wherein the suit comprises releasably salable pockets for retaining the pad. 5
9. An exercise kit comprising a pad according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and an attachment device according to claim 6.
10. A swimming device comprising a holding medium and a plurality of bodies, the holding medium surrounding at least part of the bodies and retaining them therein, the 10 holding medium being substantially flexible so as to allow the pad to substantially flex to reflect a contoured surface of the user when in use, wherein the device further comprises a plurality of bodies contained within a holding medium, wherein the bodies are closed bodies and are less dense than water. 15
11. A swimming device comprising a body having at least two substantially hemispherical protrusions on at least one surface and a first layer of holding medium on a first side and a second layer of holding medium on the second side, wherein the first holding medium is bonded to the second holding medium such that the body is retained therebetween, and wherein the body is a close body and is less dense than water. 20
12. A device according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the body, or the at least two bodies, comprises a close cell foam.
13. A swimming device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the 25 swimming device is incorporated into a swim suit.
14. A swimming device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the swimming device is a buoyancy aid. 30 15
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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GB1109518.9A GB2491817B (en) | 2011-06-07 | 2011-06-07 | Exercise apparatus |
GB1109518.9 | 2011-06-07 | ||
PCT/GB2012/051255 WO2012168698A1 (en) | 2011-06-07 | 2012-06-01 | Flexible weight pad |
Publications (1)
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AU2012266017A1 true AU2012266017A1 (en) | 2014-01-16 |
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AU2012266017A Abandoned AU2012266017A1 (en) | 2011-06-07 | 2012-06-01 | Flexible weight pad |
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US (1) | US20140302970A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2717975B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP6096765B2 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20140063561A (en) |
CN (1) | CN103717267A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2012266017A1 (en) |
BR (1) | BR112013031491A8 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2876030A1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB2491817B (en) |
RU (1) | RU2013158877A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2012168698A1 (en) |
ZA (1) | ZA201309340B (en) |
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2011
- 2011-06-07 GB GB1109518.9A patent/GB2491817B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2012
- 2012-06-01 BR BR112013031491A patent/BR112013031491A8/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2012-06-01 US US14/124,266 patent/US20140302970A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2012-06-01 WO PCT/GB2012/051255 patent/WO2012168698A1/en active Application Filing
- 2012-06-01 RU RU2013158877/12A patent/RU2013158877A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2012-06-01 CN CN201280038159.1A patent/CN103717267A/en active Pending
- 2012-06-01 AU AU2012266017A patent/AU2012266017A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2012-06-01 JP JP2014514145A patent/JP6096765B2/en active Active
- 2012-06-01 EP EP12726845.6A patent/EP2717975B1/en active Active
- 2012-06-01 KR KR1020147000078A patent/KR20140063561A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2012-06-01 CA CA2876030A patent/CA2876030A1/en not_active Abandoned
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2013
- 2013-12-10 ZA ZA2013/09340A patent/ZA201309340B/en unknown
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JP2014515968A (en) | 2014-07-07 |
CN103717267A (en) | 2014-04-09 |
CA2876030A1 (en) | 2012-12-13 |
JP6096765B2 (en) | 2017-03-15 |
GB2491817A (en) | 2012-12-19 |
KR20140063561A (en) | 2014-05-27 |
GB2491817B (en) | 2013-05-15 |
ZA201309340B (en) | 2014-08-27 |
EP2717975A1 (en) | 2014-04-16 |
WO2012168698A1 (en) | 2012-12-13 |
US20140302970A1 (en) | 2014-10-09 |
BR112013031491A2 (en) | 2016-12-20 |
RU2013158877A (en) | 2015-07-20 |
GB201109518D0 (en) | 2011-07-20 |
BR112013031491A8 (en) | 2017-12-19 |
EP2717975B1 (en) | 2017-08-09 |
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Legal Events
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MK4 | Application lapsed section 142(2)(d) - no continuation fee paid for the application |