Balance training apparatus

Abstract

A therapeutic and/or exercise apparatus is provided for use in connection with structured, multiaxial, multi-pattern movement that aids in rehabilitation or enhances conditioning. The apparatus generally includes a base and a support bar that is attached to and extends upwardly from the base. The support bar is affixed to a top surface of the base and can be removable or collapsible for ease of storage. The top surface of the base also includes one of a variety of balance training devices such as a stepping blocks, balance beams, soft surfaces and/or other proprioceptive tools. This feature provides a much more balanced exercise process while also naturally working the entire set of muscle groups related to the exercise rather than simply isolating a single motion or muscle.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . An exercise apparatus comprising:
 a base portion having a top surface;   a support bar affixed to the base portion and extending upwardly therefrom;   at least one proprioceptive tool affixed to said top surface of said base portion, wherein said proprioceptive tool is adapted to enhance a user's balance.   
     
     
         2 . The exercise apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein said proprioceptive tool is a soft surface. 
     
     
         3 . The exercise apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein said proprioceptive tool is a plurality of stepping blocks. 
     
     
         4 . The exercise apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein said proprioceptive tool is a balance beam. 
     
     
         5 . The exercise apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein said proprioceptive tool is a balance board. 
     
     
         6 . The exercise apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein said proprioceptive tool can move relative to said base. 
     
     
         7 . The exercise apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a first proprioceptive tool on one side of said support bar; and   a second proprioceptive tool on a second side of said support bar.   
     
     
         8 . The exercise apparatus of  claim 7 , wherein said first and second proprioceptive tools are selected from a group consisting of: a plurality of stepping blocks, a balance beam and a balance board.