Apparatus and method for static resistance training

Abstract

A system and method for performing static strength training. The system provides tactile feedback as well as directing the user in the proper application of sufficient and balanced force.

1 . An apparatus for personal strength training of a user, comprising: 
 an input means configured for receiving a static force application from a user during training;    a first static force registration sensor operable coupled to said input means for registering the level of force applied by the user;    a timing means;    a threshold selector configured for setting at least one target value of static force;    an audio or vibrational annunciator adapted for generating a first annunciation alerting said individual that said threshold has been reached or exceeded, and the time as registered by said timing means over which the user continues to apply force which has reached or crossed said threshold; and    a control circuit adapted for activating said annunciator in response to determining that the applied level of force registered by said static force registration sensor has exceeded the setting of said threshold selector.    
   
   
       2 . An apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein said control circuit comprises a programmable circuit element which executes a series of programmed instructions; wherein said timing means is incorporated within said programmable circuit element.  
   
   
       3 . An apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein said control circuit is further configured for generating a second annunciation in response to a registration of force by said static force registration sensor which exceeds said target value by a predetermined amount or an amount as selected by the individual; wherein the characteristics of said second annunciation are discernable from said first annunciation.  
   
   
       4 . An apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , further comprising a second static force registration sensor coupled to said control circuit; wherein said control circuit is configured to activate said audio or vibrational annunciation in response to a different between the force registered by said force registration sensors which exceeds a predetermined percentage of the target force value, a fixed level of force differential, or a force differential as defined by the individual.  
   
   
       5 . A starter pistol apparatus, comprising: 
 a housing adapted for being held by a race official;    a trigger on said housing configured for being activated by said race official;    an annunciator;    a timer means;    a control circuit coupled to said trigger, annunciator, and timer means, said control circuit is configured for activating utilizing said timer means for generating a predetermined number of periodic annunciations in response to detecting the activation of said trigger;    wherein the last of said annunciations is configured for outputting a sound that is sufficiently loud so as to be heard by participants and spectators.    
   
   
       6 . A starter pistol as recited in  claim 5 , further including a pyrotechnic device adapted for being fired in response to activation by said control circuit at the end of said timing intervals to produce the sufficiently loud annunciation to be heard by spectators.  
   
   
       7 . An apparatus for reproducing low frequency audio signals, comprising: 
 a housing configured with a cylindrical portion;    a plurality of electromagnets coupled within the cylindrical portion of said housing;    a slide assembly slidably retained within the cylindrical portion of said housing in proximity to said plurality of electromagnets;    one or more magnets coupled to a circumferential portion of said slide assembly;    a facing member covering the open end of said slide assembly in the form of one or more separate elements or formed integral to said slide-assembly;    a control circuit configured for selectively activating said electromagnets within said plurality of electromagnets in response to received audio information; and    whereby the activation of the electromagnets is operable to drive the movement of said magnets and attached slide assembly as well as the facing member which operates to push a volume of air in reproducing the received audio information.