FR3046357A1 - PHYSICAL EXERCISE ATTACHMENT FOR SURROUNDING A BODY SEGMENT AND METHOD FOR SETTING THE SAME - Google Patents

Abstract

Physical exercise accessory for surrounding a body segment and method of setting it up. A physical exercise accessory for surrounding a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a flexible main panel (1) and a plurality of coupling means (211, 222, 221, 210) positioned relative to one another. to others so as to be able to maintain said main panel (1) closed on itself to form a loop around said body segment: - by matching the first and second complementary coupling means (211, 222), - or by matching said second and third coupling means (222, 221) so as to locally form a double panel (6), which is adapted to be folded against said outer face (11) and thereby held down by matching said fourth coupling means (210) and first coupling means (211), at the option of the user. Exercise accessories.

Description

PHYSICAL EXERCISE ATTACHMENT FOR SURROUNDING A BODY SEGMENT AND METHOD FOR SETTING THE SAME

The present invention relates to the general field of physical exercise and more specifically the field of accessories intended to surround a body segment in the context of the practice of physical exercises.

More particularly, the invention relates to a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a flexible main panel comprising on the one hand an outer face extending longitudinally between a first free outermost zone. and a second outer free-end zone and, on the other hand, an opposite inner face intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face extending longitudinally between a first inner free-end zone disposed facing said first free outermost zone and a second inner free end zone, said first free outermost zone and second inner free end zone respectively comprising a first coupling means and a second complementary coupling means. The invention also relates to a method of placing a physical exercise accessory for surrounding a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a flexible main panel comprising on the one hand an outer face extending longitudinally between a first outer free extremal zone and a second outer free extremal zone and, on the other hand, an opposite inner face and intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face extending longitudinally between a first free inner extremal zone arranged opposite said first outer free-end zone and a second inner free-end zone, said first free outermost zone and second inner free-end zone respectively comprising a first coupling means and a second complementary coupling means.

As part of the practice of physical exercises, it is known to use straps to encircle certain parts of the body to connect them to a frame and this in particular to perform stretching exercises (also referred to by the English term " stretching "). To this end, it has been proposed to a user a device for successively or simultaneously stretching the lower limbs and / or the pelvic region of his body composed of different accessories including among others a belt intended to be placed around the waist of the user and different straps, of smaller diameter, intended to be in particular positioned around the leg of the user. Each of these belts and straps is provided with an attachment point for receiving a rope, itself connected to a pulley system and then to a frame. The user can then pass the belt around his waist and one or more straps around one or his legs, and then attaching one or more strings to the points of attachment of these accessories, perform stretching exercises of his lower limbs and pelvic area.

More specifically, the belt and known straps are equipped with self-hanging elements, for example those offered under the trademark "t / e / cro®" to facilitate the introduction and removal of these accessories (belt and straps) around the user's body. The self-latching elements are then arranged, in a manner known per se, at two distinct ends of the opposite faces of the belt or straps, so as to allow the user to quickly and easily close the belt or the strap respectively. around his pelvis or leg, by joining the end of the inner side with the end of the outer face, thus forming a loop around his body. Conversely, when the user wishes to remove this accessory, it is sufficient for him to move said ends away by exerting a pulling force on one of the ends.

These known accessories give a relative satisfaction when used in conjunction with the known apparatus but have no fewer disadvantages, Indeed, these accessories are neither modular nor interchangeable: an accessory (the belt) is designed to be placed around the waist of the user and an accessory (the strap) is designed to be placed around the user's leg.

In other words, these known accessories are for specific use: a belt to perform the stretching of the pelvic area and one or more straps to perform stretching of the lower limbs. It is therefore not possible to use the same accessory for the leg and for the size, given the difference in significant diameter that exists between these two parts of the body, forcing the user to acquire different accessories. he wants to practice stretching on different parts of his body which turns out to be a cumbersome solution, uneconomical and impractical to use (purchase and storage of several accessories).

In addition, these accessories and this known apparatus are not designed to allow the user to perform stretching of the upper limbs of the body (arm, wrist, neck, shoulder, etc.) which considerably limits the diversity of areas of the body. body that the user can stretch, as part of his exercise practice.

In addition, the known stretching device is a complex device, bulky and requiring several different accessories (belt, straps, ropes, etc.) which requires the user to place this device and its accessories permanently in a single and same place, like a gym for example. It is then difficult or impossible for the user to consider nomadic use of the device and its known accessories, and therefore a practice of physical exercises in different places, such as his home or garden.

The objects assigned to the present invention therefore aim to remedy the various disadvantages listed above and to propose a new exercise accessory designed to surround a body segment that is universal and versatile.

Another object of the invention is to propose a new exercise accessory that is particularly flexible.

Another object of the invention is to propose a new exercise accessory that is perfectly adapted to different body segments.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new exercise accessory that is particularly safe, robust and reliable.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new exercise accessory that is particularly easy to use, suitable for a multitude of users and for performing a multitude of physical exercises.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new physical exercise accessory that is particularly inexpensive.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new exercise accessory that is particularly easy to use.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new exercise accessory that is particularly comfortable for the user and does not present a risk of injury vis-à-vis the body segment that is surrounded.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new exercise accessory that is particularly ergonomic.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new exercise accessory that can be used in different environments, including in a private setting and outdoors.

Another object of the invention is to provide a new exercise accessory that is compatible with other physical exercise accessories known as such.

Another object of the invention is to propose a new method of setting up a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment, which is particularly simple to implement.

Another object of the invention is to propose a new method of setting up a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment, which is particularly rapid to implement.

Another object of the invention is to propose a new method of setting up a fitness accessory that is particularly safe and reliable.

Another object of the invention is to propose a new method of setting up a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment, which is adapted to a multitude of users and a multitude of body segments.

Another object of the invention is to propose a new method of setting up a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment, which is compatible with other physical exercise accessories known as such.

The objects assigned to the invention are achieved by means of a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a flexible main panel comprising on the one hand an outer surface extending longitudinally between a first outer free-end zone and a second outer free-end zone and on the other hand an opposite inner face intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face extending longitudinally between a first inner free-end zone arranged in view of said first free outermost zone and a second inner free end zone, said first outer freemost zone and second inner free end zone respectively comprising a first coupling means and a second complementary coupling means, said accessory being characterized in that said first inner free end zone comprises a third coupling means complementary to said second coupling means, and in that said outer face comprises a fourth coupling means complementary to said first coupling means, said first coupling means second, third and fourth coupling means being positioned relative to each other so as to maintain said main panel closed on itself to form a loop around said body segment: - by matching said first and second means of complementary coupling such that said first outer free end zone and second inner free end zone overlap, or by matching said second and third coupling means so that said first and second inner free end regions overlap so as to train lo a double panel, which is adapted to be folded against said outer face and thus held down by matching said fourth coupling means and first coupling means, at the option of the user.

The objects assigned to the invention are also achieved by means of a method of placing a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a flexible main panel comprising on the one hand an outer surface extending longitudinally between a first outer free end zone and a second outer free end zone and, on the other hand, an opposite inner face and intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face extending longitudinally between a first inner free-end zone disposed facing said first free outermost zone and a second inner free-end zone, said first free outermost zone and second inner free-end zone respectively comprising a first coupling means and a second second freezing means; complementary coupling ires, said method being characterized in that said first inner free end zone comprises a third coupling means complementary to said second coupling means, and in that said outer face comprises a fourth coupling means complementary to said first means of coupling. coupling and in that it comprises a step of closing said accessory during which the user folds said main panel on itself to form a loop around said body segment by matching said second and third coupling means of whereby said first and second inner free end regions overlap to locally form a double panel. Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent and will appear in more detail on reading the description given below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, given solely by way of illustrative and non-limiting example, in which: Figure 1 shows an outer face of an accessory according to the invention in a front view. - Figure 2 shows an inner face of the accessory visible in Figure 1 according to a front view. - Figure 3 shows a first method of closing the accessory visible in Figures 1 and 2, in a perspective view. - Figure 4 shows a first step of a second method of closing the accessory visible in Figures 1 and 2, in a perspective view. FIG. 5 represents a second step of the second closure mode visible in FIG. 4; FIG. 6 represents a third step of the second closure mode visible in FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 7 represents the accessory visible in FIGS. 1 and 2 positioned around the wrist of a user according to the second closure mode shown in Figures 4 to 6. - Figure 8 shows the accessory visible in Figures 1 and 2 positioned around the biceps of a user according to the second embodiment 4 to 6. FIG. 9 represents the accessory visible in FIGS. 1 and 2 positioned around the ankle of a user according to the second mode of closure visible in FIGS. 4 to 6. FIG. the accessory visible in Figures 1 and 2 positioned around the thigh of a user according to the first closure mode visible in Figure 3. The invention relates as such an exercise accessory physics. Preferably a "physical exercise accessory" means an instrument that allows a user to practice physical exercise or physical or sport training. The term "physical exercise" or sporting exercise refers to physical exercise or sport in general, that is, physical activity or sport in the broad sense. The latter can be in the form of various physical exercises, such as stretching exercises (often referred to by the English term "stretching"), pull-ups (designed to lift with the strength of the arms alone), squatting (often referred to by the English term "squats"), bodybuilding movements aimed for example to overcome the resistance of an elastic band or a weight, etc.

More specifically, the physical exercise accessory according to the invention is intended to surround a body segment of a user, that is to say to be positioned around said body segment, by covering locally, for example to the way of a belt that is placed around the waist. The term body segment can designate any segment, or any part of the body and in particular a body segment of large diameter such as the stomach, pelvis or torso. But the term bodily segment may also designate an area where a particular muscle of the body is located, said area then having a diameter smaller than the above-mentioned parts, for example the areas where the biceps, the quadriceps, or the twins are located ( calf area). Alternatively, said body segment may also designate a joint, whose diameter is possibly even smaller, such as the ankle, wrist, knee, neck, etc. Preferably, said body segment has a perimeter in a range that may range from ten centimeters, or even a few centimeters, (for example for the wrist) to a hundred centimeters, as for example for the belly), while being perfectly compatible with the use of said accessory.

In other words, the physical exercise accessory object of the invention is intended to be placed around virtually any part of the body of a user, regardless of its diameter and regardless of its position ( lower limb or upper body). The user can advantageously designate a human being, regardless of gender, size, age and advantageously regardless of his body size. Alternatively, the user may also be an animal, it being understood that certain animals (monkeys, dogs, etc.) have body segments more or less comparable to those previously mentioned (thigh, belly, arm, etc.).

Thus, the physical exercise accessory object of the invention is intended to surround a plurality of different body segments as diverse and varied as those mentioned above, belonging to users as different as children, the elderly, sportsmen and women. high level or persons practicing a sports rehabilitation, for example following an injury of one of the body parts mentioned above.

According to the invention, said accessory comprises a main panel 1, that is to say a main element giving said accessory all its mechanical strength and also serving as a support for other elements as will be detailed later, and as 1 to 10. Preferably, said main panel alone represents more than half thereof and advantageously more than three quarters of said accessory, whether from a point of view of its size, its structure or of its mass.

Still according to the invention, said main panel is flexible, that is to say it is not rigid, but on the contrary malleable and flexible, but not completely flaccid. In other words, it is possible for the user to deform said panel, in particular so as to give it the shape of a loop, as will be detailed later, and without any effort. Preferably, said main panel 1 is more easily malleable in the direction of its main length, that is to say in the direction of its greater dimension, than in the sense of its width, that is to say in the meaning of its smallest dimension.

Advantageously, the thickness of said panel is less than 3 mm and is substantially equal to 1 mm, which makes it possible to confer on said main panel 1 a flat shape and an excellent compromise between flexibility and mechanical strength.

Preferably, the length of said panel is substantially between 60 cm and 160 cm and advantageously between 90 and 110 cm, in particular so as to be able to surround the size or the belly of a user.

Preferably, the width of said panel is between 4 cm and 40 cm and advantageously varies between 9 cm and 20 cm depending on the length of said main panel, so as to provide a contact surface between said accessory and said sufficient body segment to correctly distribute the efforts related to the practice of physical exercise on said body segment of the user, in order to avoid any risk of injury or aggression on the latter. In other words, the width of said main panel 1 is not constant along its length. More specifically said main panel is advantageously in the form of a band which has a greater width in its center (that is to say in the middle of its length) than in its ends, as can be seen on FIGS. 1 and 2. Thus, according to this preferred embodiment, the dimensions of said main panel, and in particular its length and width variations, are particularly studied in order to enable said accessory to be placed in the most ergonomic manner possible around different body segments, as previously mentioned.

Advantageously, said main panel 1 has edges that are substantially rounded, or at least that do not have sharp shapes that could injure said body segment. Preferably, each of the borders of said main panel 1 has a continuous profile consisting of a plurality of arcs of circles, as illustrated for example in Figures 1 and 2. Any material can be used to make said panel 1 without leaving of the scope of the invention, since it is sufficiently strong, flexible and flexible to allow said main panel 1 to surround a body segment. Thus, it is quite possible to use a material of natural origin, such as for example leather or fabric to make said panel 1, but also a material of synthetic origin, and especially based on polyester and / or polyamide (as for example that proposed under the trademark "Nylon®").

Preferably, said main panel is designed to evacuate the perspiration emitted by said body segment during the physical exercise performed by the user, for example by being made of a porous material and / or having a plurality of holes allowing evacuation and / or evaporation of perspiration, thus providing the user with a greater comfort of use.

According to an advantageous embodiment, said main panel 1 is extensible longitudinally elastically, that is to say that it is possible to temporarily vary the length of said panel 1 under the effect of a tensile force. In other words, if a sufficiently large tensile force is exerted on the longitudinal axis of said panel 1, it will deform elastically, as long as the said force is present, then resume its initial length as soon as said effort will have ceased.

Such an elastic feature allows to confer on said exercise accessory a remarkable elasticity property to offer the user excellent ergonomic properties, especially from the point of view of maintaining the accessory in place around said body segment but also from the point of view of the blood circulation of the body limb of the user.

Indeed, the elastic properties of said accessory allow it in a first step, during the establishment around said body segment and under a tensile force of the user, temporarily increase (and only a few millimeters) the length of said accessory, then to resume its initial length, when the accessory is around said body segment and when the user releases its tensile force, which has the consequence of conferring on said accessory a slight residual clamping force around said body segment and thus to guarantee a perfect hold in place during the physical exercise (thus limiting the risks of injuries by friction for example). But this elastic property will also allow the accessory to momentarily deform, in particular under the effect of the blood pressure of said body segment, thus providing great comfort and great security for the user. In addition, this property of elastic deformation of said accessory also provides better ergonomics when said accessory is placed around a muscle or a joint whose average perimeter is likely to vary during movements related to the practice of exercise physical, such as the bicep that will contract, or simply under the effect of the user's breathing (if said accessory is for example positioned around the belly of the user).

Regardless, this elastic longitudinal extension of said main panel 1 can be obtained by the implementation of various methods, such as sewing methods for interposing an elastic weft 10 between different non-elastic sections, as can be seen for example in Figure 1.

According to the invention, said main panel 1 comprises an outer face 11 extending longitudinally between a first outer free-end zone 111 and a second outer free-end zone 112, said outer face 11 being in particular illustrated in FIG. 1. Said outer face 11 is therefore intended to be outside, that is to say not to be in contact with said body segment, when said accessory surrounds said body segment. The expression "free end zone" preferably denotes a zone, that is to say an area of several square millimeters or even square centimeters located at one end of said face of said main panel 1 and having the faculty of being freely manipulable by the user. In addition, it is in particular by one of these free end zones that the user grasps said accessory to put it in place around one of these body segments.

Preferably, each of said first and second outermost zones 111, 112 extends longitudinally over a length substantially between 10 cm and 45 cm from one of the ends of said main panel 1, and is advantageously substantially equal to 28 cm. Alternatively, each of said first and second outermost zones 111, 112 extends longitudinally over a length substantially between 10% and 45% of the length of said panel 1 from one end of said main panel 1, and is advantageously substantially equal to 28% of the length of said panel 1. Preferably, the width of each of said outermost zones 111, 112 is substantially between 7 cm and 15 cm.

Still according to the invention, said main panel comprises an inner face 12 opposite to said outer face 11 and intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face 12 being illustrated in particular in FIG. 2. Said inner face 12 extends longitudinally between a first inner free-end zone 121 arranged opposite, that is to say symmetrically with respect to said panel 1, of said first free outermost zone 111 and a second inner free end zone 122. In other words, said inner face 12 has, positioned directly opposite (or below) of said first free outermost zone 111, a first inner free end zone 121, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2. The expression "extremal zone free "means as defined above.

Preferably, each of said first and second inner end zone 121, 122 extends longitudinally over a length substantially between 10 cm and 45 cm from one of the ends of said main panel 1. Alternatively, each of said first and second inner end zones 121, 122 extends longitudinally over a length substantially between 10% and 45% of the length of said panel 1 from one end of said main panel 1.

Preferably, the width of each of said first and second inner end zone 121, 122 is substantially between 7 cm and 15 cm.

According to the invention, said first free outermost zone 111 and second inner free end zone 122 respectively comprise a first coupling means 211 and a second complementary coupling means 222, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 to 3, FIG. 3 particularly illustrating the coupling proper of said first and second complementary coupling means 211, 222.

Said first and second coupling means 211, 222 may designate any means or elements which, being complementary to each other, make it possible to form a coupling, that is to say an assembly between said first and second means coupling 211, 222, and advantageously allow to achieve a flush connection. Advantageously, said coupling or assembly is a temporary coupling, that is to say reversible or removable. In other words, the user can at will, and preferably without particular efforts or tools, coupling or uncoupling (that is to say assemble or disassemble) said coupling means 211, 222.

Said coupling means 211, 222 may equally be constituted by any means, elements, parts, etc. when they are complementary so that they can constitute a coupling. For example, various systems known as such may alternatively constitute said coupling means 211, 222, such as for example a magnetic system, for example composed of magnets whose positive and negative poles are judiciously positioned, a staple system. or complementary hooks, or a male / female system such as a button and buttonhole system or a snap button system.

Advantageously, said coupling means 211, 222 are constituted by a system of layers of loops and complementary hooks, such as that marketed under the trademark "Velcro®".

Preferably, said first coupling means 211 extends over a length of between 10 cm and 45 cm and substantially equal to 28 cm. Alternatively, said first coupling means 211 extends over a length comprised between 10% and 45% of the length of said main panel 1 and substantially equal to 28% of the length of said main panel 1. Advantageously, said first means of coupling 211 extends over the entire length of said first free outermost zone 111, so as to substantially completely cover the latter.

Preferably, said second coupling means 222 extends over a length of between 10 cm and 45 cm and substantially equal to 19 cm. Alternatively, said second coupling means 222 extends over a length comprised between 10% and 45% of the length of said main panel 1 and substantially equal to 19% of the length of said main panel 1. Advantageously, said second means of coupling 222 extends over the entire length of said second inner free end zone 122, so as to substantially completely cover the latter.

According to the invention, said first inner free end zone 121 comprises a third coupling means 221 complementary to said second coupling means 222, and said outer face 11 comprises a fourth coupling means 210 complementary to said first coupling means 211. In other words, it is possible to make a coupling between said first inner free end zone 121 and said second inner free end zone 122 by means of said third and second coupling means 221, 222. In addition, it is also possible to make a coupling between said first outer free-end zone 111 and the outer face 11 by means of said first coupling means 211 and said fourth coupling means 210.

Preferably, said third coupling means 221 extends over a length substantially equal to that of said first coupling means 211, and advantageously over the entire length of said first inner free end zone 121.

Preferably, said fourth coupling means 210 extends over a length of between 15 cm and 45 cm and substantially equal to 25 cm. Alternatively, said fourth coupling means 210 extends over a length of between 15% and 45% of the length of said main panel 1 and substantially equal to 25% of the length of said main panel 1.

According to the preferred embodiment illustrated by the figures, said first and third coupling means 211, 221 are female coupling means, that is to say that they are advantageously intended to receive, to receive in their a male complementary part, while said second and fourth coupling means 222, 210 are male coupling means. In a particularly advantageous manner, said first and third coupling means 211, 221 may be constituted by similar female coupling means, while said second and fourth coupling means 222, 210 may be constituted by means of coupling means. male mating similar.

Preferably, said female and male coupling means are constituted respectively by loops and hooks, and more precisely by a multitude of loops and hooks distributed over the various zones previously described, as proposed by the system marketed under the trademark " Velcro® ".

Advantageously, at least one of said second or fourth coupling means 222, 210 consists of a plurality of male elements distributed discontinuously in a plurality of separate strips 23, such as for example the strips marketed under the trademark "Velcro®", said strips 23 then being hooked to said main panel 1 by means of attachment, such as seams of coupling means 52. Preferably, said strips 23 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction longitudinal of said panel 1, as illustrated in particular in Figures 1, 7, 8, and 9. Preferably, the width of said strips is substantially between 2 cm and 4 cm. Preferably, said second and fourth coupling means 222, 210 consist of a plurality of male elements distributed discontinuously in a plurality of distinct strips 23, as illustrated for example in FIGS. 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9. Advantageously, said second coupling means 222 is constituted by four strips 23 separated by three substantially equal inter-band spaces and preferably substantially equal to 1 cm each, one of said strips 23 constituting in part a periphery of said second free inner end zone 122. Advantageously, said fourth coupling means is constituted by five strips 23 separated by four inter-band spaces, the latter preferably being at least 1 cm each.

Preferably, at least one of said first or third coupling means 211, 221 consists of a plurality of female elements forming a continuous web, such as for example the webs marketed under the trademark "Velcro®", said webs then being hooked to said main panel 1 by a hooking means, such as seams of coupling means 52, as illustrated for example in Figure 1. Preferably said sheet of female elements is intended to correspond with at least one of said strips 23 so as to be able to vary the diameter of said loop, as will be detailed later and as shown in Figures 3 to 10.

Preferably, each of said first, second, third and fourth coupling means 211, 222, 221, 210 is attached to said main panel 1 by means of a seam of coupling means 52, as illustrated for example in FIGS. and 2.

Alternatively, any other attachment means that is particularly robust and does not alter the flexibility or strength of said main panel can be used in place of said seams 52.

According to the invention, said first, second, third and fourth coupling means 211, 222, 221, 210 are positioned relative to each other so as to maintain said main panel 1 closed on itself to form a loop around said segment. bodily, as illustrated for example in Figures 3 to 10, and this: - by matching said first and second complementary coupling means 211, 222 so that said first free outermost zone 111 and second inner free end zone 122 overlap, that is to say in a coupling configuration where all or part of said second inner free end zone 122 covers all or part of said first free outermost zone 111, or by matching said second and third coupling means 222, 221 so that said first and second free end zone 121, 122 overlap so as to locally form a double panel 6, which is designed to be folded against said outer face 11 and thus kept folded by matching said fourth coupling means 210 and first coupling means 211, that is to say according to a coupling configuration where all or part of said first inner free end zone 121 covers all or part of said second inner free end zone 122, so as to substantially reduce the diameter of the loop and formed (relative to the previous overlap) by said accessory around said body segment, at the option of the user.

Thus, the physical exercise accessory object of the invention remarkably presents at least two modes of closure, or locking, offering the user the choice of the manner in which he wishes to close and keep closed said accessory around said body segment, and this according to the size of said body segment chosen by the user.

More particularly, if the user wishes to place said exercise accessory around a body segment of large diameter or perimeter, such as, for example, the waist, belly, or thigh, it will preferentially close said accessory by overlapping that is to say by bringing into contact, all or part of said second inner free end zone 122 with all or part of said first free outermost zone 111, as is for example illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 10. in other words, the user will choose to make a coupling between said first coupling means 211 and said second coupling means 222. In the advantageous case where the latter are constituted by coupling means similar to those marketed under the trademark "Velcro®", the user can advantageously, by modifying the length on which said second extremal zone l inner fiber 122 and first external free end zone 111 overlap, adjust precisely, that is to say, finely adjust, the diameter of the loop formed by said accessory so that it perfectly matches the diameter or the perimeter of said body segment. Preferably, the user will choose to close said accessory according to this first closure mode where a portion of the inner face 12 overlaps a portion of the outer face 11, when it wishes to position said accessory around a body segment of large diameter, that is to say, whose diameter is substantially between 20 cm 30 cm, such as when the user wishes to perform physical exercises by placing said accessory around his thigh, belly or waist. In other words, by choosing the overlap distance between said first internal free end zone 122 and said first free outermost zone 111, the user can adapt said accessory to its morphology, and especially to the diameter of said body segment surrounded by said accessory.

If the user wishes to place said exercise accessory around a body segment of small diameter or perimeter, such as the arm, wrist, calf or ankle, it will preferentially close said accessory by overlapping, that is to say by contacting, all or part of said first inner free end zone 121 with all or part of said second inner free end zone 122, as is for example illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 9. other words, the user will choose to make a coupling between said third coupling means 221 and said second coupling means 222. In the advantageous case where the latter are constituted by coupling means similar to those marketed under the trademark Velcro®, the user can advantageously by changing the length on which said first inner free end zone 121 and second internal free end zone 122 overlap, adjust precisely, that is to say, finely adjust the diameter of the loop thus formed by said accessory so that it perfectly corresponds to the diameter or the perimeter of said body segment . In addition, this closure mode allows the user to form a double panel 6, formed in this case of the first free end zone and the second free end zone of said main panel 1, coupled together by their respective inner faces. 121, 122, said double panel 6 then being designed to be folded and held against said outer face 11, by means of said fourth coupling means 210.

Advantageously, said first and second outer free-end zone 111, 112 extend on either side of an outer central zone 110, on which said fourth coupling means 210 is disposed. In other words, said face 11 comprises, preferably substantially equidistantly between said first outer free-end zone 111 and said second outer free-end zone 112, an outer central zone or portion 110 extending over several square centimeters, as illustrated for example in FIG. 1 .

Preferably, the three zones thus defined (first outer free-end zone 111, outer central zone 110, second free end zone 112) continuously and preferentially form said outer face 11.

Preferably, said outer central zone 110 extends over a length of between 20 cm and 70 cm and is advantageously substantially equal to 35 cm.

Alternatively, said outer central zone 110 extends over a length comprised between 20% and 70% of the length of said main panel 1 and is advantageously substantially equal to 35% of the length of said main panel 1.

Preferably said main panel 1 extends longitudinally along a substantially circular arc trajectory, said outer central zone 110 being on the perpendicular bisector defined by said inner free end zones 121, 122.

Indeed, such a non-rectilinear trajectory makes it possible to improve the ergonomics of said accessory, particularly when the latter is placed around a body segment of large periphery and / or diameter such as the size or the belly.

In the preferential cases where said main panel 1 extends longitudinally in a circular arc trajectory, and wherein said panel 1 also comprises an elastic frame 10, the latter follows a trajectory parallel to said string, so that the elastic elongation length of said main panel 1 is in a path parallel to a string said circle arc and not according to said arc. In other words, the elastic elongation of said main panel leads not only to an elongation of the length of said panel 1 but also to an increase in the diameter of said arc.

Preferably, said fourth coupling means 210 is disposed on said outer central zone 110, so as to decrease the diameter of the loop formed by said accessory when said double panel 6 is folded against said outer face 11 and hooked by the setting correspondence of said fourth coupling means 210 and first coupling means 211, as illustrated for example in Figures 6 to 9. In this preferred case, and in the advantageous case where said fourth coupling means is composed of a plurality of male elements distributed in a discontinuous manner in a plurality of distinct strips 23, said strips 23 are arranged so as to leave a space having no strip 23, and whose width is preferably substantially equal to 3 cm, situated substantially at middle of said central zone, that is to say substantially half the length of said main panel al 1.

Thus, the positioning of said fourth coupling means 210 on said outer central zone 110 will contribute to the formation of a fold 113 located on said outer face 11 so that, when said double panel 6 is folded down and hooked on said outer face 11, can significantly or substantially reduce the size of the loop formed by said accessory. More precisely, said fold 113, depending on the diameter of said body segment, can be positioned alternately on said first free outer extremal zone 111 if said body segment is of average diameter, or on said outer central zone 110 if said body segment is of diameter, as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8.

Thus, when said double panel 6 is folded down and hooked against said outer face 11, it overlaps, via said first free outermost zone 111, all or part of said outer central zone 110.

In other words, the positioning of said fold 113 is directly related to the diameter of the loop that forms said accessory, that is to say is directly related to the diameter or perimeter of said body segment around which is placed said accessory . Naturally, the positioning of said fold 113 is intimately related to the length over which said first free outermost zone 111 overlaps, that is to say partially or completely covers said outer central zone 110.

For example, when said accessory is positioned around a body segment of average diameter, that is to say substantially equal to a dozen centimeters, as is for example the case of the arm, said fold 113 is located on said first outer free-end zone 111 or on the boundary between the latter and said outer central zone 110. Consequently, said double panel 6 then only partially covers or overlaps said outer central zone 110, as illustrated by FIG. example Figure 8.

In another example, when said accessory is positioned around a body segment of a particularly small diameter, that is to say substantially less than ten centimeters, as is the case, for example, of the wrist, said fold 113 is located on said outer central zone 110. Therefore, said double panel 6 will then totally or almost totally cover, or overlap, said central outer zone 110, as illustrated for example in FIG. 7.

Thus, thanks to these different modes of closure (or overlap or locking) of said accessory described above, said user can indifferently position said accessory around a body segment having a particularly large diameter or perimeter, such as for example the thigh, the waist or the belly, but also around a body segment having an intermediate diameter, such as the arm or the calf, but also around a body segment having a particularly small diameter or perimeter, such as for example the wrist . This results in a great modularity and versatility of said accessory, which allows the user to have only one physical exercise accessory, but can position around virtually any body segment. In other words, thanks to the physical exercise accessory object of the invention, the user can perform physical exercises for both the upper body and lower body.

Advantageously, said inner face 12 comprises an inner central zone 120 situated substantially equidistant from said first and second inner free end zones 121, 122. In other words, said inner central zone is located opposite said central outer zone. 110.

Advantageously, said inner central zone 120 extends over a length of between 20 cm and 70 cm and is preferably substantially equal to 47 cm.

Alternatively, said inner central zone 120 extends over a length comprised between 10% and 70% of the length of said main panel 1 and is preferably substantially equal to 47% of the length of said main panel 1.

Preferably, said inner central zone 120 is covered with a fleece material intended to be in contact with said body segment, in order to absorb part of the efforts related to the practice of the user's physical exercise, thus improving the comfort of the latter.

Preferably, said fleece material is furthermore an aerated material, that is to say that it is not completely watertight, for example by having a plurality of holes, and this, in particular in order to allow the transpiration generated by said body segment during physical exercise to evacuate and / or evaporate, also improving the comfort of the user.

Advantageously, the width of said main panel 1 is variable along its length, the width of each of said free end zones 111, 112, 121, 122 being smaller than said inner central zone 120, so as to maximize the contact area between said accessory and said body segment. Indeed, the more this contact surface will be important, the more the efforts related to the practice of physical exercise will be well distributed on said body segment, and the user comfort will be maximized. In addition, the risk of injury, including pinching are significantly reduced.

Preferably, said physical exercise accessory comprises a fastening element 31 constituted for example by a ring, a buckle, a carabiner, etc. Advantageously, said attachment element is made of a particularly rigid and resistant material, for example stainless steel to minimize its size while maximizing its strength.

Said fastening element 31 is advantageously attached to said outer face 11 as illustrated for example in Figure 1, preferably by means of an attachment strap 32 locally surrounding said fastening element, said strap 32 being advantageously folded and sewn on itself. Preferably, said strap 32 is attached to said outer face 11 by means of strap seams 53 visible in particular in Figure 1. According to one embodiment, said strap attachment 32 may constitute as such said element fastener 31, in particular by being folded on itself so as to form at its end a loop.

Said fastening element 31 is then preferably intended to receive a link for connecting said accessory to a frame, that is to say a fixed and robust element (specific structure, shaft, beam, etc.), said link being then for example constituted by a rope or a strap. Advantageously, the user can adapt said link according to the type of physical exercise he wishes to perform. For example, if he wishes to perform a physical exercise stretching type, the user will preferentially retain a non-stretchable link, such as a strap or a rope, in order to reflect to the frame the full weight of his body or said body segment. Conversely, if the user wishes to perform a physical exercise type bodybuilding, it will preferentially retain a link of elastic type, so as to overcome the resistance of the latter with his muscles, to develop and strengthen. In other words, thanks to said fastening element 31, the accessory object of the invention is particularly versatile insofar as the latter can be used to perform physical exercises as diverse and varied as stretching or stretching. bodybuilding, and this on a plurality of body segment, as mentioned above.

Preferably, said fastener element 31 has a substantially toroidal shape, the diameter of which is advantageously substantially between 2 cm and 6 cm so that it can indifferently receive a rope, a strap or any other type of connection.

Preferably, said fastening element 31 is attached at the edge of said outer central zone 110 and extends in the direction of said second free outermost zone 112, the latter advantageously having no coupling means, as illustrated by FIG. 1 More specifically, and as illustrated in FIG. 1, it is said tether strap that extends towards said second outer free-end zone 112, which thus gives said fastening element 31 a similar orientation, which which allows it to be accessible regardless of the closure mode used by the user to close said accessory, and regardless of the size of said body segment around which the accessory is located. In addition, this orientation also makes it possible to pass said link connecting said accessory to said frame at a place free of any coupling means, thus preventing said link from accidentally catching or catching in a coupling means, thus improving the security of use. In addition, the positioning of said fastening element 31 at the edge of said outer central zone 110 positions said fastening element 31 substantially facing said inner central zone 120 intended to be in contact with said body segment, thus transferring the forces of the body. physical exercise at said inner central zone 110, which is advantageously equipped with a fleece material as explained above, thus contributing to greatly improving the comfort of the user.

Preferably, said accessory comprises a border 4 positioned around said main panel 1 so as to cover the periphery of said outer face 11 and the periphery of said inner face 12, as illustrated for example in Figures 1 and 2. Advantageously, said edge 4 is composed of a strip of fabric folded on itself around the edge of said main panel so as to cover said peripheries, and attached to said main panel by an edge seam 54, the latter preferably extending continuously over substantially along the length of said web of fabric and passing through said outer 11 and inner faces 12. Thus, according to this preferred embodiment, said accessory comprises a border designed to protect the peripheries of the outer 11 and inner faces 12 of said main panel 1 and than its slice, thus avoiding that said main panel 1 is degraded by its edge and / or its peripheries during possible contact and friction with said body segment. In addition, said border is also intended to protect said body segment aggression of the edge of said main panel and thus provide the user with great security of use and comfort of use.

Advantageously, said border covers said peripheries over a distance substantially equal to 1 cm. In other words, the width of said fabric strip advantageously constituting said border is substantially equal to 2 cm. The invention also relates as such to a method of placing a physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a flexible main panel 1 comprising on the one hand an outer face 11 extending longitudinally between a first outer free end zone 111 and a second outer free end zone 112 and on the other hand an opposite inner face 12 and intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face 12 extending longitudinally between a first inner free-end zone 121 disposed opposite said first free outermost zone 111 and a second inner free-end zone 122, said first free outermost zone 111 and second inner free end zone 122 respectively comprising a first coupling means 211 and a second means of accomodation 222 complementary, as defined above. In addition, said first inner free end zone 121 comprises a third coupling means 221 complementary to said second coupling means 222, and said outer face 11 comprises a fourth coupling means 210 complementary to said first coupling means 211, such as previously mentioned.

According to the invention, said method comprises a step of closing said accessory during which the user folds said main panel 1 on itself to form a loop around said body segment by matching said second and third coupling means 222, 221 so that said first and second inner free end regions 121, 122 overlap so as to locally form a double panel 6.

Preferably, said method further comprises a folding step during which said double panel 6 is folded by the user against said outer face 11 and is thus held down by the matching of said fourth coupling means 210 and first means coupling 211, and advantageously, further comprises an attachment step during which the user connects said accessory to a frame by attaching a link between a fastening element 31 fixed to said outer face 11 and a frame, as explained previously.

Thus, said accessory and / or said method, thanks to the remarkable positioning of said first, second, third and fourth coupling means 211, 222, 221, 210 allows a use around a plurality of body segments, and what it it is a body segment of large diameter (such as the thigh), of intermediate diameter (such as the biceps) or small diameter (such as the wrist), by associating said coupling means for example according to Table 1 below, which relates to the matching of the different coupling means and the different areas of the accessory according to the diameter of the body segment surrounded (examples: thigh, biceps, wrist).

Table 1

Claims (12)

1 - Physical exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a main panel (1) flexible comprising on the one hand an outer face (11) extending longitudinally between a first free outermost zone (111) and a second external free end zone (112) and on the other hand an inner face (12) opposite and intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face (12) extending longitudinally between a first extremal zone internal free space (121) disposed opposite said first free outermost zone (111) and a second inner free end zone (122), said first free outermost zone (111) and second inner free end zone (122) respectively comprising a first coupling means (211) and a second coupling means (222) complementary, said accessory being characterized in that said first inner free end zone (121) comprises a third coupling means (221) complementary to said second coupling means (222), and in that said outer face (11) comprises a fourth means for coupling coupling (210) complementary to said first coupling means (211), said first, second, third and fourth coupling means (211, 222, 221, 210) being positioned relative to each other so as to be able to maintain said main panel (1) closed on itself to form a loop around said body segment: - by matching said first and second complementary coupling means (211, 222) so that said first free outermost zone (111) and second inner free end zone (122) overlap, or by matching said second and third coupling means (222, 221) so that the said first and second inner free end regions (121, 122) overlap to locally form a double panel (6), which is adapted to be folded against said outer face (11) and thereby kept folded by matching said fourth coupling means (210) and first coupling means (211), at the option of the user. 2 - Physical exercise accessory according to the preceding claim characterized in that said first and second external free end zone (111, 112) extend on either side of an outer central zone (110) on which is disposed said fourth coupling means (210). 3- exercise accessory according to one of the preceding claims. characterized in that said first and third coupling means (211, 221) are female coupling means, while said second and fourth coupling means (222, 210) are male coupling means. 4 - Physical exercise accessory according to the preceding claim characterized in that said coupling means female and male are respectively constituted by loops and hooks. 5 - Physical exercise accessory according to one of claims 3 or 4 characterized in that at least one of said second or fourth coupling means (222, 210) consists of a plurality of male elements distributed discontinuously in a plurality of discrete strips (23) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of said panel (1). 6 - Physical exercise accessory according to the preceding claim characterized in that at least one of said first or third coupling means (211, 221) consists of a plurality of female elements forming a continuous web and, intended to correspond with at least one of said strips (23) so as to be able to vary the diameter of said loop. 7 - Physical exercise accessory according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that said main panel (1) is expandable longitudinally elastically. 8 - Physical exercise accessory according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that it comprises a fastening element (31) attached to said outer face (11) and intended to receive a link for connecting said accessory to a frame . 9 - Physical exercise accessory according to claims 2 and 8 characterized in that the fastening element (31) is attached to the edge of the outer central zone (110) and extends towards said second free end zone outside (112). 10 - A method of placing an exercise accessory intended to surround a body segment of a user, said accessory comprising a main panel (1) flexible comprising on the one hand an outer face (11) extending longitudinally between a first outer free end zone (111) and a second outer free end zone (112) and on the other hand an opposite inner face (12) and intended to be oriented towards said body segment, said inner face (12) s extending longitudinally between a first inner free extremal zone (121) disposed opposite said first free outermost zone (111) and a second inner free extremal zone (122), said first outer free extremity zone (111) and second extremal zone free-wheel assembly (122) comprising respectively a first coupling means (211) and a second complementary coupling means (222) es, said method being characterized in that said first inner free end zone (121) comprises a third coupling means (221) complementary to said second coupling means (222), and in that said outer face (11) comprises a fourth coupling means (210) complementary to said first coupling means (211), and in that it comprises a step of closing said accessory during which the user folds said main panel (1) on itself; even to form a loop around said body segment by matching said second and third coupling means (222, 221) so that said first and second inner free end regions (121, 122) overlap to locally form a double panel (6). 11 - A method of setting up an exercise accessory according to the preceding claim characterized in that it further comprises a folding step during which said double panel (6) is folded by the user against said outer face (11) and is thus held down by the matching of said fourth coupling means (210) and first coupling means (211). 12-A method of setting up an exercise accessory according to the preceding claim characterized in that it further comprises a hooking step during which the user connects said accessory to a frame by attaching a link between a fastening element (31) attached to said outer face (11) and a frame.