Exercise apparatus

Abstract

The exercise apparatus is a lightweight and portable exercise device that enhances the active care and rehabilitation of patients participating in programs of therapeutic exercise as other individuals who may wish to use the device for general physical fitness and exercise. The exercise apparatus comprises at least one resistance band secured to an anchor device, and handles with attachment rings, hooks, etc. to secure the handles to the resistance band(s). The anchor device is used to secure the exercise apparatus to either a door frame or to some other immovable object. The device is versatile enough to allow the user to employ a wide range of different type handles in order to achieve the desired exercise effect. Resistance can be easily varied and will increase linearly as the muscle shortens and becomes more efficient. The exercise apparatus can be used to exercise all areas of the spine as well as every major extremity joint from shoulders, elbows, and wrists to hips, knees and ankles without the need for rotating to different machines to exercise different body parts.

1 . An exercise apparatus comprising: 
 an anchor device;    at least one resistance band;    a plurality of handles; and    a fastening member corresponding to each of said handles wherein each of said handles is coupled to said at least one resistance band.    
   
   
       2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the anchor device contains a sewn tab.  
   
   
       3 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the anchor device contains a snap hook.  
   
   
       4 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one resistance band is elastic tubing.  
   
   
       5 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one resistance band is an elastic band.  
   
   
       6 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one resistance band is bungee cord.  
   
   
       7 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the anchor device can be adjusted up or down vertically to vary the angle of resistance.  
   
   
       8 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , and including a plurality of resistance bands, each having means to allow coupling to said handles.  
   
   
       9 . An apparatus for exercise, comprising: 
 means for securing the apparatus to a vertical structure;    means for providing variable resistance to exercises;    means for gripping the apparatus; and    means for coupling the gripping means to the resistance means.    
   
   
       10 . The apparatus of  claim 9 , further comprising means for securing the, apparatus to a door frame.  
   
   
       11 . The apparatus of  claim 9 , further comprising means for securing the apparatus to a wall.  
   
   
       12 . The apparatus of  claim 9 , further comprising means for adjusting the vertical height at which the apparatus is secured to a vertical structure.  
   
   
       13 . The apparatus of  claim 12 , further comprising means for securing the apparatus to a door frame.  
   
   
       14 . The apparatus of  claim 12 , further comprising means for securing the apparatus to a wall.