Balance Training and Exercise Device and Method

Abstract

A novel balance exercise apparatus and method of training is disclosed which includes a spanning system which spans between two positions in space and supports a suspended system which is suspended between the two positions in space. A user trains their balance skills and exercises by positioning all or part of their body on the suspended system and then moves their body to maintain their balance while remaining in place or doing exercises. The suspended system creates a dynamic balance environment where the suspended system may move such as swing, bend, rotate, or twist, all controlled by the balance and movement of the user. The suspended system may consist of rigid and/or flexible devices that are supported by the spanning system above the ground. In addition, the spanning system and the suspended system may include devices to vary the nature and difficulty of the dynamic balance environment. The dynamic balance environment may range from stiff to very soft and incorporate variable spring and bounce properties. The dynamic nature of the balance environment makes this system a very effective and challenging balance training system.

1 . An apparatus for balance training and exercise comprising:
 a spanning system which creates two or more support positions in space and holds the positions apart; and   a stability system which holds the spanning system and maintains the support positions in space above the ground; and   a suspended system between the positions in space created by the spanning system such that a user may balance all or part of their body on the suspended system.   
   
   
       2 . An apparatus as described in  claim 1  where the spanning system and the stability system are combined in one structure. 
   
   
       3 . An apparatus as described in  claim 1  wherein the suspended system includes a flexible member stretched between the positions in space created by the spanning system. 
   
   
       4 . An apparatus as described in  claim 2  wherein the suspended system includes a device to adjust the tension of the flexible member. 
   
   
       5 . An apparatus as described in  claim 1  wherein the suspended system includes a rigid structure. 
   
   
       6 . An apparatus as described in  claim 1  wherein the spanning system flexes. 
   
   
       7 . An apparatus as described in  claim 1  wherein the spanning system is rigid. 
   
   
       8 . An apparatus as described in  claim 1  wherein the suspended system can swing. 
   
   
       9 . An apparatus as described in  claim 1  wherein the user stands on the suspended system. 
   
   
       10 . An apparatus for balance training and exercise comprising:
 a non-linear spanning system which includes connection points at either ends and holds the connection points above the ground; and   a suspended system which extends between two points in space such that a user may balance all or part of their body on the suspended system.   
   
   
       11 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the suspended system is held above the ground from less than 1 inch to greater than 36 inches. 
   
   
       12 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the height of the suspended system is adjustable. 
   
   
       13 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the suspended system is less than 1 inch to greater than 4 inches wide. 
   
   
       14 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the suspended system is a woven material. 
   
   
       15 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the suspended system can rotate. 
   
   
       16 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the spanning system folds and unfolds. 
   
   
       17 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the spanning system comes apart. 
   
   
       18 . An apparatus as described in  claim 10  wherein the apparatus includes a spanning system that can be positioned for use as a balance beam. 
   
   
       19 . A method of exercise including:
 placing all or part of the body on a suspended system supported by a spanning system;   and moving parts of the body to maintain balance and remain on the suspended system.   
   
   
       20 . A method of exercise as described in  claim 19  where the user stands on the suspended system. 
   
   
       21 . A method of exercise as described in  claim 20  wherein the axis of the pivot of the swing goes through the users body. 
   
   
       21 . A method of exercise as described in  claim 19  wherein the user positions part of their body on the ground and part of their body on the spanning system. 
   
   
       23 . A method of exercise as described in  claim 19  where the user bounces on the spanning system.