Dynamic weight training apparatus

Abstract

A dynamic weight training apparatus is disclosed herein for improved calorie burning and muscle toning. The weight training apparatus generally includes a pendulum mass suspended, e.g., via a flexible shaft, from a handle or other securing mechanism. A user swings the weight in a pendulum motion when exercising (walking, jogging, stationary, sitting or standing) providing for increased resistance. A flexible shaft may advantageously dampen/reduce shock and strain associated with the pendulum motion.

1 ) A dynamic weight training apparatus comprising:
 a pendulum mass;   a handle; and   a connection arm   wherein the pendulum mass is suspended a distance from the handle by way of the connection arm, whereby a pendulum motion of the pendulum mass is configured to impart a torsion force proximal to the securing mechanism, and   wherein an angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that the pendulum mass is extended away from the handle substantially in-line with a user's forearm when the user grips the handle and the user's wrist is in a substantially neutral position.   
     
     
         2 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the connection arm exhibits elastic properties and acts as one of (i) a damper and (ii) a spring to dampen store or redistribute energy from a swinging motion of the mass. 
     
     
         3 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the length of the connection arm is adjustable. 
     
     
         4 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the flexibility of the connection arm is adjustable. 
     
     
         5 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the mass is integral with the connection arm. 
     
     
         6 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the connection arm extends from a bottom portion of the handle. 
     
     
         7 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein a weight of the mass is adjustable. 
     
     
         8 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein a balance of the mass is adjustable. 
     
     
         9 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the pendulum mass is suspended a fixed distance from the handle. 
     
     
         10 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the pendulum mass is suspended a variable distance from the handle. 
     
     
         11 ) The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the connection arm provides torsional resistance as between the pendulum mass and the handle. 
     
     
         12 ) The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the connection arm comprises a rigid lever. 
     
     
         13 ) The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that torsional forces are substantially zero when the handle is gripped by the user with the user's wrist and arm in neutral position. 
     
     
         14 ) The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the angle between the handle and the connection arm is between 80-100 degrees. 
     
     
         15 ) A method for exercising, the method comprising:
 providing a dynamic weight training apparatus including a pendulum mass suspended a distance from a handle via a connection arm wherein an angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that the pendulum mass is extended away from the handle substantially in-line with a user's forearm when the user grips the handle and the user's wrist is in a substantially neutral position; and   performing an exercise so as to cause the pendulum weight to swing in a pendulum motion, thereby imparting a torsion force proximal to the securing mechanism.   
     
     
         16 ) The method of  claim 15 , wherein the connection arm is a rigid lever. 
     
     
         17 ) The method of  claim 15 , wherein the connection arm is flexion lever which exhibits elastic properties and acts as one of (i) a damper and (ii) a spring to dampen store or redistribute energy from a swinging motion of the mass. 
     
     
         18 ) The method of  claim 15 , wherein the connection arm provides torsional resistance as between the pendulum mass and the handle. 
     
     
         19 ) The method of  claim 15 , wherein the pendulum motion results from the natural swinging motion of a user's arm while walking. 
     
     
         20 ) The method of  claim 15 , wherein the angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that torsional forces are substantially zero when the handle is gripped by the user with the user's wrist and arm in neutral position.