Method and apparatus for exercising the legs

DETAILED DESCRIPTION It is therefore one object of this invention to design a device capable of providing progressive resistance exercise isolated to the muscle groups responsible for flexion and extension of the leg while walking or performing other leg flexing exercises.
It is a related object of this invention to design the above device such that embodiments of the basic design may be easily modified for use in rehabilitative therapy, enhancement of aerobic conditioning activities, increasing muscular flexibility and joint mobility, or strength training, and similarly may be adjusted to accommodate users of various sizes and capacities.
It is another object of this invention to design the above device such that it may be utilized during light, moderate, or heavy aerobic activities to augment overall physical conditioning and strength training.
It is a distinct object of this invention to design the above device so as to minimize the rotational forces on the tibiofemoral (knee) joint, to thereby limit the potential for secondary injuries during rehabilitative therapy (including walking) and to provide support for the patella during aerobic activity and strength training.
Briefly described, the exercise device of this invention includes first and second collars for encircling the right and left legs of the user, respectively, and at least one resistance member extending between and connected to each of the collars to provide increasing resistance against angular separation of the legs through a range of flexion and extension motion.
Each collar is selectively securable in a predetermined position relative to corresponding leg, preferably surrounding the tibiofemoral (knee) joint and supporting the patella, or alternately surrounding the thigh or calf of the user.
The natural tension provided by the resistance member may be augmented using one or more layers of elastomeric material that provides graduated or progressively increasing levels of resistance.