US20060135330A1

US20060135330A1 - Apparatus and method for a grip for an exercise device

Info

Publication number: US20060135330A1
Application number: US11/018,802
Authority: US
Inventors: Michael Clark; Detlev Smith
Original assignee: Fitness Quest Inc
Current assignee: Fitness Quest Inc
Priority date: 2004-12-21
Filing date: 2004-12-21
Publication date: 2006-06-22

Abstract

A handle grip for an exercise apparatus has a curvilinear body having a shaft and a gripping portion. The gripping portion has a plurality of concave indentations arranged in series. Each of the indentations is adapted to receive an associated finger of a user's hand. The gripping portion is disposed at a distal end of the shaft. The curvilinear body is selectively flexible such that the body bends as force is applied to the gripping portion. The gripping portion further comprises a first exterior surface having a bulbous shape so as to fit an associated contour of a user's palm. The configuration and flexibility of the present invention provides for an ergonomic handle grip for an exercise apparatus, which enables the user to focus on their exercise regiment rather than discomfort.

Description

I. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Field of Invention
This invention pertains to the art of methods and apparatuses for a grip utilized with an exercise device. More specifically, the present invention pertains to grips that are ergonomic to the user and can be used with a variety of exercise devices such as, but not limited to, stationary bicycles and elliptical machines.
B. Description of the Related Art
A regular exercise regiment is necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Consumers regularly choose exercise equipment for cardiovascular exercise or other types of training. However, if a piece of exercise equipment is uncomfortable to use, the consumer may become easily discouraged and not use the exercise equipment. Not only is this a loss of the benefit of exercise, but it is a monetary loss as well if the consumer purchased the equipment that will no longer be used, or does not take advantage of equipment at a local gym for which they pay membership fees.
Comfort is also key to achieve an optimum workout. When parts of the body are comfortable, such as the hands, feet, or back, the consumer can focus on the exercise routine to ensure they have proper posture and body position, rather than being distracted by an uncomfortable hand grip, for example.
For exercise equipment such as stationary bicycles, elliptical machines, row machines, and others, handles or a handle bar are provided for the user to rest their hands. Often, the user grips the handles or handle bar. Most handles are generally cylindrical in shape with no consideration for optimum hand position, namely, the fingers and palm. Further, most handles and handle bars are rigid. Without any degree of flexibility, the consumer may experience unneeded discomfort during their exercise routine.
Based upon the foregoing, there is a need in the art for an improved grip for an exercise device that is comfortable to use by providing optimum hand position with the fingers and palm, as well as flexibility.

II. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, a new and improved handle grip for an exercise device is provided which has a curvilinear body having a shaft and a gripping portion. The gripping portion may have a plurality of concave indentations arranged in series. Each of the indentations is adapted to receive an associated finger of a user's hand. The gripping portion may be disposed at a distal end of the shaft. The curvilinear body may be selectively flexible such that the body bends as force is applied to the gripping portion. The gripping portion may further comprise a first exterior surface having a bulbous shape so as to fit an associated contour of a user's palm. The configuration and flexibility of the present invention provides for an ergonomic handle grip for an exercise apparatus, which enables the user to focus on their exercise regiment rather than discomfort.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the body may be adapted to flex in a forward direction.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the gripping portion may have a first exterior surface, the first exterior surface may be adapted to fit the contour of an associated user's palm of a hand.
Further, another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the body may have a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, the plurality of concave indentations may extend from the first exterior surface and into the second exterior surface.
Still yet, another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the body may have a length l, a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface may define a body thickness t, wherein the body thickness may vary along the length l.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the second exterior surface may have at least two concave portions.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a grip, wherein the body may have a first half and a second half, and a handle member may be positioned between the first half and the second half.
Further, another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the handle member may be a component of an exercise device.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein each of the indentations may have a first end, a second end, a first lateral side, and a second lateral side, the first and second lateral sides may extend between the first end and the second end, wherein each indentation may be curvilinear from the first lateral side to the second lateral side and each indentation may be curvilinear from the first end to the second end.
Still, another object of the present invention to provide a grip wherein the gripping portion may have a width w1, and the shaft may have a width w2, wherein w2<w1.
Further yet, anther object of the present invention is to provide a grip which may be used on the handle member of a stationary bicycle.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a grip which may be used on the handle member of an elliptical machine.
Still other benefits and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains upon a reading and understanding of the following detailed specification.

III. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a right side view of FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 is a left side view of FIG. 2.
FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the present invention taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5.
FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the inside of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is another front perspective view of the inside of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the handle member of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is an elevational view of FIG. 9.

IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating a preferred embodiment of the invention only and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIGS. 1-10 show the present invention. The present invention is a handle grip 10 intended to be used with a variety of exercise devices, such as stationary bicycles, elliptical machines, and rowing machines, but not limited thereto. The present invention may be used with any type of exercise device where the user generally rests their hands on handles or a handle bar.
With reference to FIGS. 1-5, the exterior of the handle grip is shown. Generally, the handle grip 10 may be a shell with a thermoplastic rubber overmold. However, it is also contemplated that the grip 10 not have the rubber overmold. The handle grip 10 comprises a body 11 having a shaft 12 and a gripping portion 14. The gripping portion 14 is disposed at a distal end of the shaft 12. The gripping portion 14 has a width w1 and the shaft 12 has a width w2. In one embodiment of the present invention, it is contemplated that w2 be less than w1. The gripping portion 14 may be smooth, or it may have a plurality of concave indentations 18 arranged in series. The gripping portion 14 has a first exterior surface 20 and a second exterior surface 22. The first exterior surface 20 may be a bulbous shape so as to fix the contour of a user's palm.
With specific reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the plurality of concave indentations 18 will now be discussed in further detail. As shown in the FIGURES, the plurality of concave indentations 18 has an overall convex shape, which is also the general curvature of a user's hands when the fingers are bent slightly inward. As such, each of indentations 18 is adapted to receive a user's finger. Because of the convex shape of the gripping portion 14, the user's fingers rest in a natural position, thus, providing increased comfort during exercise. Each of the indentations 18 has a first end 30, a second end 32, a first lateral side 34 and a second lateral side 36. The first and second lateral sides 34, 36 extend between the first end 30 and the second end 32. Each indentation 18 may be curvilinear from the first lateral side 34 to the second lateral side 36. Further, each indentation may be curvilinear from the first end 30 to the second end 32. In another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of concave indentations may be lined with a cushion material to increase comfort to the user.
With continuing reference to FIGS. 1-8, the body 11 of the handle grip will now be discussed in further detail. The body 11 may be curvilinear in shape. Although not required, the body 11 may be comprised of a first half 26 and a second half 28. The first half 26 and the second half 28 may define a cavity 29 therebetween. This configuration enables easy attachment of a handle assembly 40, which will be described in further detail below. It should be understood that the first half 26 and the second half 28 may be solid pieces such that no cavity is defined when they are mated together. As shown in FIG. 4, the first half 26 comprises the first exterior surface 20 and a first interior surface 21. The first exterior surface 20 may be a different material, such as a thermoplastic rubber overmold, or a different structural component than the first interior surface, as shown in FIG. 6, although this is not required. The first interior surface 21 may comprise two fastener receiving members 50. Projections 52 may also extend along a length l of the first half 26. As shown in the FIGURES, the projections 52 are disposed between the fastener receiving members 50, although this is not required. Any position may be chosen in accordance with sound engineering judgment provided the handle grip 10 is securely attached to the handle assembly 40. A tab 53 may be disposed between the projections 52. The tab 53 is adapted to receive wiring for pulse monitors 51, which may be positioned on the first half 26. It is also contemplated that the pulse monitors 51 may be positioned on the second half 28. In another embodiment of the present invention, the first exterior surface 20 may further comprises a pivot point P, which is positioned in the gripping portion 14. The pivot point may take the form of a slit or a notch in the first exterior surface 20, so that there is flexibility in the grip 10 when a user exerts force on the gripping portion 14. Any means chosen with sound engineering judgment may be utilized to impart flexibility in the gripping portion 14 of the present invention.
With reference to FIGS. 4-6, the second half 28 comprises a second exterior surface 22 and a second interior surface 23. The second exterior surface 22 may be a different material, or a different structural component than the second interior surface 23, as shown in FIG. 6, although this is not required. The second exterior surface may have two concave portions 24. The second half 28 also may have two holes 53 for receiving fasteners. The second interior surface 23 comprises projections 54, which may be positioned between the holes 53. The holes 53 align with the fastener receiving members 50 of the first interior surface. Similarly the projections 54 may align with the projections 52.
With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the side view of the body 11 is shown. With the first half 26 and the second half 28 mated together, it can be seen that the plurality of concave indentations 18 extends from the first exterior surface 20 and into the second exterior surface 22. Further, the body has a length l, and the first exterior surface 20 and second exterior surface define a body thickness t. As shown in the FIGURES, the body thickness may vary along the length l. With reference to FIGS. 3, 4, and 6, the body 11 may have a collar 60, which may be angled as shown in FIG. 3. The body may be made with any material chosen with sound engineering judgment, such as, but not limited to plastic.
With reference to FIGS. 9 and 11, the handle assembly 40 will now be described in further detail. The handle assembly may comprise a hollow tubular member 42 and a handle member 44. While the tubular member 42 is shown to be circular in cross section, and cross sectional shape may be chosen in accordance with sound engineering judgment. Further, the tubular member 42 need not be hollow. What is important is that the tubular member be able to receive the handle member 44. The tubular member operatively connects to the exercise device. The handle member is adapted to attach to the tubular member 44 through any mechanical means, such as, but not limited to welding. The handle member 44 may comprise two holes 46, which are adapted to align with the fastener receiving members 50. In one embodiment of the present invention the body 11 is adapted to pivot about its central axis. In other words, the handle member 44 may pivot or rotate relative to the tubular member 42. The handle member 44 may have a width that is smaller than a width of the tubular member. As such, an edge 48 of the tubular member forms a shelf, which is adapted to mate with the collar 60 of the body 11. The handle member 44 may be made of any material chosen with sound engineering judgment, such as, but not limited to steel. What is important is that it imparts sufficient rigidity to the handle grip 10.
In order to assemble the present invention, the holes 46 of the handle member 44 are positioned over the fastener receiving members 50 of the first interior surface 21. The second half 25 of the body 11 is positioned over the first half 26. Fasteners press through the holes 53 and secure the first half 26 and the second half 28 together. In the manner, the handle member 44 is securely positioned within the handle grip 10. Projections 52, 54 further aid in securing the position of the handle member 44 within the body 11. With this configuration, the handle grip 10 is adapted to rotate about the tubular member 42 in order for the user to obtain optimal hand position.
The preferred embodiments have been described, hereinabove. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods may incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of this invention. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations in so far as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.
Having thus described the invention, it is now claimed:

Claims

1. An apparatus, comprising:

a body having a shaft and a gripping portion, said gripping portion having a plurality of concave indentations arranged in series, said gripping portion disposed at a distal end of said shaft.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of concave indentations is adapted to receive a finger.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body is adapted to flex.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein is selectively flexible such that said body bends as force is applied to said gripping portion.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gripping portion has a first exterior surface, said first exterior surface adapted to fit the contour of an associated user's palm of a hand.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body has a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, said plurality of concave indentations extending from said first exterior surface and into said second exterior surface.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body has a length l, a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface defining a body thickness t, wherein the body thickness varies along the length l.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second exterior surface has at least two concave portions.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a handle member, wherein said body further comprises a first half and a second half, wherein the handle member is positioned between said first half and said second half.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the handle member is a component of an exercise device.

11. A handle grip for an exercise apparatus, the handle grip comprising:

a body having a shaft and a gripping portion, said gripping portion disposed at a distal end of said shaft, said body being a shell having a thermoplastic overmold operatively connected thereto.

12. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said body has a central axis and is selectively pivotable about said central axis.

13. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said gripping portion further comprises a first exterior surface having a bulbous shape so as to fit an associated contour of a user's palm.

14. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said gripping portion has a plurality of concave indentations arranged in series, each of said indentations adapted to receive an associated finger of a user's hand, wherein each of said indentations has a first end, a second end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side, said first and said second lateral sides extending between said first end and said second end, wherein each indentation is curvilinear from said first lateral side to said second lateral side and each indention is curvilinear from said first end to said second end.

15. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said gripping portion has a width w1, said shaft has a width w2, wherein w2<w1.

16. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said body is curvilinear.

17. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said exercise device is a bicycle.

18. The handle grip of claim 11, wherein said exercise device is an elliptical machine.

19. A handle grip for an exercise device, comprising a curvilinear body having

a shaft; and

a gripping portion, said gripping portion having a plurality of concave indentations arranged in series, each of said indentations adapted to receive an associated fingers of a user's hand, said gripping portion disposed at a distal end of said shaft, said gripping portion further comprising a first exterior surface having a bulbous shape so as to fit an associated contour of a user's palm, each of said indentations having a first end, a second end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side, said first and said second lateral sides extending between said first end and said second end, wherein each indentation is curvilinear from said first lateral side to said second lateral side and each indention is curvilinear from said first end to said second end, said gripping portion has a width w1, said shaft having a width w2, wherein w2<w1,

wherein said body is selectively flexible such that said body bends as force is applied to said gripping portion, the body has a length l, a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface defining a body thickness t, wherein the body thickness varies along the length l, wherein the second exterior surface has at least two concave portions.