Importance

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Abstract

A lightweight exercise device offers variable resistance, including assisted resistance, for strengthening and conditioning various parts of the body. The device may be strapped to the user's back and is provided with rollers for contact with a wall, door, pad, or floor. The rollers, are mounted on rotatable axles on the rear face of the device and operate in conjunction with a tensioning system which uses durable elastic cords or bands. As the rollers are rotated in one direction, the cords or bands wind about the axles thereby progressively increasing the cord or band tension. This increased tension thereby increases the resistance to rotation of the axles and the rollers mounted thereon. As the rollers are rotated back, the cords or bands unwind and the roller resistance decreases. The cords or bands may be wound by rolling the rollers or, in one embodiment, by turning a tension preadjustment crank connected to an intermediate axle. In one embodiment of the invention, the cords are connected to cams maintained on the axles. The cords or bands are easily connected to the axles so that the range of resistance provided by the device may be changed simply by changing the size and flexibility of one or more cords or bands. The device is of particular use in performing exercises for the legs, shoulders, and abdomen.

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First Claim