JP7527290B2 - Exercise machine controls - Google Patents

Description

(Technical field)
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This application relates generally to the field of exercise equipment and related methods. In particular, this application relates to executable controls and control methods associated with exercise machines.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This international application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 16/217,548, filed December 12, 2018, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 15/863,057, filed January 5, 2018, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 15/686,875, filed August 25, 2017, which is a non-provisional application of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/380,412, filed August 27, 2016 (the entire contents of each of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference).

Exercise has become an increasingly important component of daily life, and most exercise regimens typically include the use of exercise machines, such as elliptical machines, cycling machines, rowing machines, treadmills, and the like. Such exercise machines are typically designed for use in gyms or other athletic facilities. Also, such exercise machines are configured to allow a user to use the machines to participate in various exercise classes, training programs, or other activities. Specifically, such exercise machines typically include one or more buttons, switches, knobs, levers, or other mechanisms that allow a user to adjust various parameters of the machine during use. For example, a treadmill includes one or more controls for increasing or decreasing the incline of the treadmill deck, increasing or decreasing the speed of the treadmill belt, or modifying other parameters of the treadmill as the user walks, jogs, sprints, or engages in various other activities on the treadmill. Similarly, a cycling machine includes one or more controls for increasing or decreasing the braking resistance of the bicycle's flywheel, increasing or decreasing the bicycle's pedaling speed or cadence, or modifying other parameters of the cycling machine during use.

While such controls are common on treadmills, cycling machines, elliptical machines, and other known exercise machines, such controls may, in some cases, be difficult to use. For example, due to the dynamic nature of the motion-based activities (e.g., running, cycling, etc.) typically performed on such exercise machines, it may be difficult for a user to operate such controls while exercising. Furthermore, even if a user is able to operate such controls while running, cycling, or performing other motion-based activities, such controls may not be optimized to allow a user to accurately select particular settings or other parameters of the exercise machine while performing such motion-based activities.

The exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure aims to solve one or more of the problems of conventional exercise machines described above.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method is provided that includes a processor associated with an exercise machine receiving electronic content over a network, the electronic content including an exercise class; the processor receiving user data associated with a user participating in the exercise class using the exercise machine; the processor generating executable controls for a user interface based at least in part on the user data; and the processor generating executable controls for the user interface based at least in part on the user data. The method of the present disclosure further includes providing executable controls via a display of the exercise machine while the user is participating in the exercise class. In such an example, the executable controls may operate to modify parameters of the exercise machine while the user is participating in the exercise class.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an exercise machine is provided that includes a processor operably connected to a network, a display operably connected to the processor and configured to display electronic content received by the processor over the network, the electronic content including an exercise class, and a deck configured to change the inclination of the deck relative to a support surface supporting the exercise machine. The exercise machine of the present disclosure further includes a belt rotatable around the deck, a first motor operably connected to the processor and configured to drive the belt, and a second motor operably connected to the processor and configured to change the inclination of the deck relative to the support surface. In such an embodiment, the processor is configured to display the electronic content including the exercise class on the display, receive user data associated with a user participating in the exercise class using the exercise machine, and generate executable controls based at least in part on the user data. The processor is also configured to cause the display to display the electronic content and provide the executable controls via the display. In such an example, the executable controls can operate to change a parameter of the exercise machine.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method is provided that includes capturing audio and video content corresponding to an exercise class performed by an instructor, at least a portion of which is performed on a first exercise machine. The method of the present disclosure further includes creating a video file including the audio and video content, generating an executable control corresponding to the exercise class, the executable control being operable to modify a parameter of a second exercise machine different from the first exercise machine, and associating the executable control with the video file such that the executable control is displayed on a display of the second exercise machine when a processor of the second exercise machine causes a display of the second exercise machine to play at least a portion of the video file. The method of the present disclosure also includes providing the executable control, along with the video file, over a network to a processor of the second exercise machine.

The detailed description will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the leftmost digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers in different drawings indicate the same or similar elements.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary exercise machine of the present disclosure with a user. 2 is another diagram of the exemplary exercise machine shown in FIG. 1 , illustrating the first and second rotary controls and the display. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating exemplary components used in creating and/or distributing content. FIG. 1 illustrates an example user interface of the present disclosure showing exercise classes and a scorecard. FIG. 13 illustrates another example user interface of the present disclosure showing exercise classes and a leaderboard. FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary method of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary method of the present disclosure.

The following description is presented to enable those skilled in the art to make and use aspects of the exemplary embodiments described herein. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. Descriptions of specific embodiments or applications are provided only as examples. Various modifications to the embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Moreover, the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include exercise machines, networked exercise machines, and corresponding methods. Exercise machines of the present disclosure include one or more exercise machines, such as a treadmill, rowing machine, cycling machine, elliptical trainer, or any other suitable device. Exercise machines of the present disclosure include an associated local system that allows a user to fully participate in a live or recorded exercise class from any location that has access to a suitable communications network. Exemplary exercise machines of the present disclosure also include one or more displays configured to provide various controls operable to modify parameters of the exercise machine. In particular, displays of the present disclosure are configured to provide a user interface including one or more executable controls operable to modify parameters of the exercise machine while a user of the exercise machine is participating in an exercise class and/or otherwise using the exercise machine.

Such executable controls may be generated by a processor of the exercise machine and/or by one or more servers of a networked exercise system located remotely from the exercise machine. In particular, such executable controls may be generated based on user data indicating one or more preferences of the user, one or more previous exercise machine settings selected by the user during one or more previous workouts, one or more exercise machine settings previously specified by the user as preferences and/or as part of a user-specific user profile, and/or other user-specific information. Additionally and/or alternatively, such executable controls may be generated based on one or more instructions issued by an instructor of an exercise class. In some examples, such executable controls may include settings that correspond to relatively specific instructions given by an instructor, while in other examples, such executable controls may include settings that correspond to relatively vague or abstract instructions given by an instructor during an exercise class. In yet another example, one or more executable controls of the present disclosure may operate to modify parameters of the exercise machine to assist a user in achieving one or more goals or athletic objectives stored in a memory associated with the exercise machine.

Accordingly, the exercise machines, executable controls, and corresponding methods described herein enable a user to easily and precisely modify one or more parameters of the exercise machine while participating in an exercise class in accordance with a user's specific personal control settings. Various aspects of such exercise machines and executable controls are described in more detail below.

1 and 2, in various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a local system 100 includes an exercise machine 102, such as a treadmill, that has integrated or connected digital hardware and that includes one or more displays 104 for use in connection with an instructor-led exercise class and/or for displaying other digital content. Although the exercise machine 102 is described or referred to herein as a "treadmill" as described above, the exemplary exercise machine 102 of the present disclosure may be any suitable type of exercise machine, including a rowing machine, a cycling machine, an elliptical trainer, a stair climber, and the like. Thus, any of the examples described herein may be applicable to, incorporate, execute, or otherwise relate to a treadmill, a rowing machine, a cycling machine, an elliptical trainer, a stair climber, and the like. However, for ease of description, unless otherwise noted, references hereinafter will be made to an exercise machine 102 that includes a treadmill.

In various exemplary embodiments, the one or more displays 104 may be directly attached to the exercise machine 102 or may be otherwise positioned within the field of view of the user 106. In various exemplary embodiments, the one or more displays 104 enable the user 106 to view content related to a selected exercise class while exercising on the exercise machine 102 and while exercising at one or more locations close to or adjacent to the exercise machine 102. In some examples, the exercise machine 102 may also include a hinge, joint, pivot, bracket 138 or other suitable mechanism that allows adjustment of the tilt or orientation of the display 104 relative to the user 106, regardless of whether the user 106 is exercising on or close to or adjacent to the exercise machine 102.

In an exemplary embodiment in which the exercise machine 102 includes a treadmill, the exercise machine 102 generally includes a lower assembly 108 and an upper assembly 110. The lower assembly 108 generally includes a deck 112 of the exercise machine 102 that supports the user 106 during the user's exercise on the exercise machine 102, as well as other components of both the lower assembly 108 and the upper assembly 110. For example, the deck 112 supports a first motor (not shown) of the exercise machine 102 configured to increase, decrease, or otherwise change the inclination of the deck 112 relative to a support surface on which the exercise machine 102 is placed. The deck 112 also includes one or more linkages 116 connected to the motor and configured to raise or lower the deck 112, for example, by acting on the support surface when the motor is activated. The deck 112 also includes a second motor (not shown) configured to increase, decrease, or otherwise change the rotational speed of a belt 120 connected to the deck 112. The belt 120 is rotatable relative to the deck 112 and is specifically configured to rotate or otherwise move completely around (i.e., complete a circle) the deck 112 during use of the exercise machine 102. For example, in an embodiment in which the exercise machine 102 includes a treadmill, the belt 120 supports the user 106 and repeatedly circles the deck 112 as the user 106 runs, walks, or otherwise exercises on the treadmill. The exemplary belt 120 includes one or more tracks (not shown) movably coupled to gears, flywheels, pulleys, and/or other components of the deck 112. In this example, the gears, flywheels, pulleys, and/or other components of the deck 112 are coupled to an output shaft or other component of the second motor described above. In this example, rotation of the output shaft or other component of the second motor drives a corresponding rotation of the belt 120.

The belt 120 also includes a plurality of laterally aligned slats 126 coupled to the one or more tracks. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, each slat 126 extends substantially parallel to at least one adjacent slat 126. Each slat 126 is further coupled to one or more tracks of the deck 112 by one or more respective couplings, hinged, pivotally, or otherwise movably coupled to the one or more tracks of the deck 112. The couplings may include, for example, brackets, pins, screws, clips, bolts, and/or one or more other fastening components configured to secure the respective slats 126 to the tracks, which allow the slats 126 to pivot, rotate, or otherwise move relative to the tracks while the belt 120 rotates about the deck 112.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 1, the exercise machine 102 also includes one or more sidewalls 128 coupled to the deck 112. For example, the exercise machine 102 includes a first sidewall 128 on a left side of the deck 112 and a second sidewall 128 on a right side of the deck 112. The sidewall 128 may be made from fabric, foam, plastic, rubber, polymer, and/or other similar materials, and in some examples, the sidewall 128 may help to dampen or reduce noise generated by one or more of the motors and/or other components of the deck 112.

The exercise machine 102 also includes one or more posts 130 extending upwardly from the deck 112. For example, the exercise machine 102 includes a first post 130 on the left side of the deck 112 and a second post 130 on the right side of the deck 112. The post 130 may be made of a metal, alloy, plastic, polymer, and/or other similar material that may be used to manufacture the deck 112, the slats 126, and/or other components of the exercise machine 102. In this example, the post 130 is configured to support the display 104, and in some examples, the display 104 is directly coupled to a crossbar 132 of the exercise machine 102, the crossbar 132 is coupled to the post 130, or is otherwise supported by the post 130. For example, the crossbar 132 may include one or more hand rests or handles useful for supporting the user 106 during exercise. In some examples, the crossbar 132 may be substantially C-shaped, substantially U-shaped, and/or any other configuration. In any of the examples described herein, the crossbar 132 extends from the left post 130 to the right post 130. Additionally, in some examples, the post 130 and the crossbar 132 comprise a single integrated component of the upper assembly 110. Alternatively, in other examples, the post 130 and the crossbar 132 comprise separate components of the upper assembly 110. In this example, the upper assembly 110 includes one or more brackets 134, end caps 136, and/or additional components configured to help couple the one or more posts 130 to the crossbar 132.

As described above, the exercise machine 102 also includes hinges, joints, pivots, brackets 138, and/or other suitable mechanisms that allow the tilt or orientation of the display 104 to be adjusted whether the user 106 is walking, jogging, running, or otherwise exercising on or in close proximity to the exercise machine 102. For example, the bracket 138 includes at least one component rigidly coupled to the crossbar 132. The bracket 138 also includes one or more additional components rigidly coupled to the display 104. In this example, the component coupled to the display 104 of the bracket 138 is movable with the display 104 relative to the component coupled to the crossbar 132 of the bracket 138. The component includes one or more dovetail slider mechanisms, channels, and/or other components that allow the display 104 to controllably slide or otherwise move relative to the crossbar 132. This component also allows the user 106 to fix the tilt of the display 104 relative to the crossbar 132 after the user 106 has adjusted the position of the display 104 as desired.

1 and 2, the exercise machine 102 also includes one or more controllers 144, 146 configured to receive input from the user 106. The exercise machine 102 further includes one or more sensors 147 configured to sense, detect, or otherwise determine one or more performance parameters of the user 106 before, during, or after the user 106 participates in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102. In any of the examples described herein, the controllers 144, 146 and the one or more sensors 147 are operatively or otherwise connected to one or more controllers, processors, and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102.

Digital hardware 148 (shown in phantom in FIGS. 1 and 2) associated with exercise machine 102 may be connected or integrated with exercise machine 102 or may be located remotely and connected to exercise machine 102 by wired or wireless means. Digital hardware 148 includes digital storage (e.g., hard drives or other such memory), one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors) or other similar computers or controllers, communications hardware, software, and/or one or more media input/output devices, such as a display, camera, microphone, keyboard, touch screen, headset, and/or audio speakers. In various exemplary embodiments, these components are connected or otherwise integrated with exercise machine 102. All communications between the components of digital hardware 148 are multi-channel, multi-way, and wireless or wired communications using any suitable protocol or technology. In various exemplary embodiments, the digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 includes associated mobile and web-based application programs that provide a user with access to account, performance, and other related information from a local or remote exercise machine, processor, controller, personal computer, laptop, mobile device, or any other digital device or digital hardware. In any of the examples described herein, one or more controllers, processors, and/or other digital hardware 148 associated with the exercise machine 102 may operate to perform one or more functions associated with the control logic of the exercise machine 102. This control logic includes one or more rules, programs, or other instructions stored in memory of the digital hardware 148. For example, one or more processors included in the digital hardware 148 may be programmed to perform operations in accordance with the rules, programs, or other instructions of the control logic, and the processor may also be programmed to perform one or more additional operations in accordance with, or at least in part in response to, inputs provided by one or more of the controls 144, 146 provided by the display 104, one or more of the sensors 147, and/or received by the various controls, user interfaces, or other components. In any of the examples described herein, the display 104 includes a touch screen, a touch-sensitive (e.g., capacitance-sensitive) display, and/or other device configured to display content and receive input (e.g., touch input, tap input, swipe input, etc.) from the user 106.

In any of the examples described herein, one or more of the controls 144, 146 associated with the exercise machine 102 includes an endless wheel type control. This control is useful in varying or otherwise controlling other parameters of the exercise machine 102, such as those related to the incline of the deck 112, the speed of the belt 120, and/or incremental increases or decreases. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the controls 144, 146 associated with the exercise machine 102 includes a rotary dial coupled to a corresponding rotary encoder. In this example, the rotary encoder includes one or more detents or other components/structures that are adjusted to a desired incremental change in the corresponding parameter of the exercise machine 102. For example, the rotary encoder is adjusted such that each detent correlates for a 0.5% increase or decrease in the incline angle of the deck 112. Alternatively, the rotary encoder is adjusted such that each detent correlates for a 0.1 mph increase or decrease in the speed of the belt 120. In yet another example, percentages, speeds, and/or other increments greater or less than the above increments are selected. Additionally, one or more of the controls 144, 146 may include one or more additional buttons, wheels, touch pads, levers, knobs, or other components configured to receive additional input from the user 106, which provide the user 106 with finer control over the corresponding parameters of the exercise machine 102. One or more of the controls 144, 146 may also include respective controller housings configured to facilitate attachment of the controls 144, 146 to the crossbar 132 or other components of the exercise machine 102.

1 and 2, in various exemplary embodiments, one or more sensors 147 of the exercise machine 102 are configured to sense, detect, measure or otherwise determine various user data, parameters of the exercise machine 102 and/or other information, either instantaneously or over time, from both the exercise machine 102 and the user 106. For example, the exercise machine 102 includes one or more sensors 147 that measure the inclination of the deck 112, the speed of the belt 120, the load applied to the deck 112, the belt 120, one or more of the motors and/or other components of the exercise machine 102, the amount of energy expended by the user 106, the power output of the exercise machine 102, the user's weight, the number of steps, distance, total motion, repetitions, the amount of resistance applied by one or more of the motors and/or other components of the exercise machine 102, pedal cadence, braking force or resistance, and any other information related to, for example, a treadmill, a bicycle machine or other exercise machine 102. The exercise machine 102 also includes sensors 147 for measuring the user's heart rate, respiration, hydration, calorie burn, or any other physical performance metrics, or for receiving this information from sensors provided (e.g., worn) by the user 106. Optionally, this information may be calculated as current/instantaneous values, maximum, minimum, average, or totals over time, or using any other statistical analysis. Trends may also be determined, stored, and displayed to the user, instructor, and/or other users. The sensors 147 communicate with memory and/or processors of digital hardware 148 associated with the exercise machine 102, either locally or remotely, using wired or wireless connections. The sensors 147 and/or digital hardware 148 processors also communicate with one or more processors located remotely from the exercise machine 102, using wired or wireless connections.

In various exemplary embodiments, the exercise machine 102 also includes one or more indicators (not shown) for providing information to the user 106. The indicators may include lights, a projected display, a speaker for audio output, or other output devices that may provide signals to the user 106 to provide the user 106 with information such as when to perform an exercise, when to start or stop an exercise, or other informational indicators. For example, the indicators (e.g., lights or projected displays) may display information regarding the number of sets and repetitions performed by the user 106 in a location visible to the user 106 during the performance of the associated exercise.

2, as described above, the display 104 of the exercise machine 102 includes or is driven by a user input device, such as a touch screen, mouse, voice control, or other suitable input device. In some examples, the display 104, or at least a portion thereof, includes a touch screen configured to receive touch input from the user 106. The display 104 may be of any size, but is optimally large and oriented to display a variety of information, including one or more video streams, various performance metrics corresponding to the user 106, various additional performance metrics associated with one or more additional users exercising on the exercise machine remote from the exercise machine 102, and various controls. In various exemplary embodiments, some or all areas of the display 104 project an image of the user 106 to provide the user feedback regarding the user's form and performance in various activities.

In various exemplary embodiments, the user 106 may use the display 104 or one or more user interfaces 200 displayed on the display 104 to selectively present various information, including live or archived video, performance data, and other user and system information. In any of the examples described herein, the user interface 200 may provide various control and information windows that may be accessed and removed individually or as groups by click, touch, voice prompts, or gestures. In various exemplary embodiments, the windows provide information regarding the user's own performance and/or the performance of other participants in the same exercise class, both past and present.

The exemplary user interface 200 presented by the display 104 is used to access member information, log in and out of the local system 100, and access live content, such as live and archived exercise classes, or other content. User information is displayed in a variety of formats and may include past and current performance and account information, social networking links and information, achievements, and the like. The user interfaces described herein may also be used to access the local system 100 to update a user profile (e.g., a user profile specific to a user 106) or member information, manage account settings, such as information sharing, or change the settings of one or more of the controls included in the user interface 200.

The exemplary user interface 200 may also be displayed on one or more displays 104 to allow the user to select information to display and adjust how that information is displayed on the displays 104. The user interface 200 presents multiple types of information overlaid such that different types of information may be easily selected or deselected by the user 106. For example, performance metrics and/or other information may be displayed over video content using semi-transparent or partially transparent elements such that video behind the information elements may be viewed along with (i.e., simultaneously with) the performance metrics and/or other information itself. Additionally, the exemplary user interface 200 presents the user 106 with various screens that the user 106 may quickly change using the provided user input devices, including providing touch input via the displays 104.

In any of the examples described herein, the processor and/or other components of the digital hardware 148 control or otherwise cause the display 104 to display various user interfaces 200 of the present disclosure. For example, the processor or other components of the digital hardware 148 cause the display 104 to display the user interface 200, including a home screen that provides basic information about the local system 100 and/or exercise machine 102, as well as available options. The home screen provides direct links to information such as scheduled exercise classes, archived exercise classes, leaderboards, instructors, and/or profile and account information. The home screen may also display direct links to content, such as a link to join a particular exercise class. The user 106 can navigate between various portions of the home screen by selecting this link using an appropriate input device, such as touching the display 104 at the indicated location or swiping to display a new screen. The exemplary user interface 200 that provides this home screen may also provide other information relevant to the user 106, such as social networking information, and navigation buttons that allow the user to quickly navigate between various screens within the user interface 200.

In various exemplary embodiments, one or more of the user interfaces 200 include various components configured to provide information to the user 106 while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class. For example, as described in more detail below, one or more of the exemplary user interfaces 200 include a timeline 202 (e.g., a segmented timeline) showing the portion of the exercise class being displayed on the display 104, as well as a position and/or location within the timeline that corresponds to the current portion of the exercise class being displayed. The exemplary user interface 200 also includes a scorecard 204, leaderboard or other component that provides rankings, outputs, exercise machine parameters, user data and/or other information related to other users participating (in real time or previously) in the exercise class being displayed on the display 104. The exemplary user interface 200 further includes various display bars 206 or other components that provide performance metrics, performance information and/or other user data related to the user 106. This information may include, for example, various settings or other parameters of the exercise machine 102 (e.g., the current incline of the deck 112, the current speed of the belt 120, the current pedal cadence of the bike, the current braking force or resistance of the bike, etc.), the power of the user 106, and/or other information corresponding to the user 106 participating in an exercise class. Additionally, in some examples, the user interface 200 includes one or more executable controls 210 operable to change the incline of the deck 112, the speed of the belt 120, the pedal cadence of the bike, the braking force or resistance of the bike, and/or other parameters of the exercise machine 102 while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class. As shown in at least FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the timeline 202, scorecard 204, leaderboard, indicator bar 206, executable controls 210, and/or other components of the user interface 200 are displayed on the display 104 along with (e.g., simultaneously with) content 208 including the exercise class in which the user 106 is currently participating.

In various exemplary embodiments, the user interfaces 200 described herein are executed by a local program or application using a local operating system, such as an Android or iOS application, or by a browser-based system. Any of the performance metrics or other information described herein with respect to the various user interfaces 200 may be accessed remotely by any suitable network, such as the Internet. For example, a user 106 may access a website from a tablet, cell phone, computer, and/or any other digital device, through which the user 106 may view historical information, communicate with other participants, schedule exercise classes, access instructor information, and/or any of the information described herein with respect to the various user interfaces 200.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example networked exercise system 300 of the present disclosure, including one or more exercise machines 102 communicating over an example network. The example networked exercise system 300 may be used, for example, to capture or otherwise generate audio, video and/or other content corresponding to exercise classes conducted by one or more instructors. The networked exercise system 300 may be configured to generate video files and/or any other electronic, digital, or other files that include the captured audio and video content. In some examples, the networked exercise system 300 may be configured to generate one or more of the executable controls 210 described herein with respect to the user interface 200 (FIG. 2), associate the executable controls with a video file, and display the executable controls 210 by playing at least a portion of the video file by a processor of the exercise machine 102 (e.g., by the display 104 of the exercise machine 102). In any of the examples described herein, content captured or distributed by the networked exercise system 300 may include live or archived exercise classes, live or archived educational content such as video content explaining how to properly perform exercises, landscape or map-based content, videos, and/or animations that may be rendered in three dimensions from any angle, which may be created and stored at various local or remote locations and shared across the networked exercise system 300.

In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system 300 is managed by one or more networked back-end servers 302. The exercise system 300 also includes various databases 304 for storing user data, system information, performance information, archived content, and the like. The exemplary local system 100 (FIG. 1) communicates with the networked back-end servers 302 by any suitable network 306 (e.g., content distribution network 306), including, but not limited to, the Internet. As an example of an alternative distribution approach, various exemplary embodiments may eliminate the back-end servers 302 and communicate data throughout the system in a distributed or peer-to-peer manner without a central server network. In this networked exercise system 300, user data (e.g., performance data) is broken into smaller packets or "fragments" and distributed among user devices so that a complete data set can be rapidly delivered to all devices and displayed as needed.

Content for distribution over the network 306 may be created in a variety of ways. Content recording locations include professional content recording studios, amateur and home-based locations, gyms, and the like. In various exemplary embodiments, the recording studio may be a studio with live studio participation with space for live instructor-led exercise classes, or a dedicated studio without live studio participation without space for live instructor-led exercise classes. As shown in FIG. 3, a recording device including one or more video cameras 308, microphones 310, mp3 players or other music players 312, and/or other components may be used to capture the instructor and/or participants during the exercise class. Multiple cameras 308 may provide various views, and a 3D camera 308 may be used to create 3D content. In various exemplary embodiments, the content may be generated locally by the user 106. For example, the exercise machine 102 may be equipped with a recording device including a microphone 310 and a camera 308. Users 106 generate live or recorded exercise classes that can be transmitted or stored by the networked exercise system 300 and distributed over the network 306.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, content for the exercise class is generated by providing the output of one or more video cameras 308, microphones 310, and/or music players 312 as inputs to an audio mixer 314. The audio mixer 314 outputs the content to an analog-to-digital converter 316, which provides the converted data to a production switcher 318. The production switcher 318 sends the production video to a video encoder 320, which may store the encoded video on a local storage device 322 and send the encoded video to a video transcoder 324.

In some examples, the video encoder 320 receives input from one or more users of the backend server 302 including instructions to associate the executable control 210 with a video file created by the networked exercise system 300. In this example, the video encoder 320 embeds or otherwise associates the executable control 210 at a desired location within the video file. Alternatively, the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the backend server 302 identify verbal instructions from an instructor leading an exercise class. In this example, the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the backend server 302 identify verbal instructions contained in audio content received from the microphone 310 and/or video camera 308. The instructions correspond to parameters of the exercise machine 102 (e.g., the incline of the deck 112, the speed of the belt 120, the pedal cadence of the bike, the braking force or resistance of the bike, etc.). In this example, the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the backend server 302 identify a timestamp associated with the instruction (e.g., a timestamp of the video content and/or audio content corresponding to the instruction). In this example, the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the backend server 302 associate the executable control 210 with the video file by linking the executable control 210 to the portion of the video file that corresponds to the timestamp. Further, in any of the examples described herein, the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the backend server 302 identify the verbal instruction through natural language processing software or techniques.

Additionally, the video transcoder 324 outputs the transcoded data to a video packetizer 326, which transmits the packetized data stream over the network 306 to the remote user 106. In various exemplary embodiments, the instructor and/or user 106 are provided with access to a content creation platform that can be used to assist them in creating content. The platform provides tools for selecting and editing music, managing volume control, and chatting or other communications to the user 106.

1 and 2, through the display 104 and/or other user interfaces of the exercise machine 102, the user 106 may access a list, calendar, and schedule of live and recorded exercise classes available for delivery by the display 104. In various exemplary embodiments, when the user 106 selects an exercise class, the local system 100 accesses or displays a primary data stream for the exercise class, which may include video, music, audio, text, or other data, to display the live or previously recorded exercise class. Based on existing technology, the local system 100 includes hardware video acceleration encoding/decoding to manage high-definition video quality, up to 1080 pixels. The local system 100 automatically adjusts the bit rate/quality of the data stream for the exercise class to provide participants with the highest quality video according to the user's bandwidth/hardware limitations.

In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system 300 and method of the present disclosure includes multi-way communication and data transfer capabilities that allow for the sharing of video, audio, voice, and data among all users 106 and/or instructors. This allows users 106, regardless of location, to access and view multi-way video and audio streams from instructors and/or other users, and to establish direct communication with other users 106 for private or conference video and/or voice communications during a live or recorded exercise class. This data stream may be established by the local system 100 for display on one or more displays 104 and by one or more of the user interfaces 200 described above. In various exemplary embodiments, the user 106 may manage multiple data streams to select and control inputs and outputs. The local system 100 allows the user 106 to control the volume of the primary audio stream for the exercise class as well as other audio channels for other users, and even audio streams unrelated to the exercise class, such as a phone call or the user's own selected music. For example, this allows user 106 to lower the volume of the instructor to facilitate conversation with other users.

For live exercise classes, in various exemplary embodiments, the instructor can communicate with the entire exercise class simultaneously or contact individual users to solicit feedback from all users in real time regardless of location. For example, the instructor can ask users verbally or text a pop-up message to the users 106 to solicit feedback on difficulty, music selection, terrain, etc. The users 106 can then respond through components of the local system 100 by selecting an appropriate response or providing verbal feedback. This allows the instructor to use crowdsourcing to improve the exercise class by tailoring it to the needs of the participants or by soliciting feedback or votes on specific exercise class features or elements.

In various exemplary embodiments, the instructor may also set performance goals, and the system may measure and display to the user 106 and the instructor performance against the goals. For example, the instructor may set goal metrics, such as target power and speed, and then display color coding next to the user's measurements to indicate whether the user achieved this goal. The system may allow the instructor to remotely adjust exercise machine settings for individual users 106. In various exemplary embodiments, the exercise machine 102 may automatically adjust based on information from the user 106, the instructor, or performance. For example, the exercise machine 102 adjusts difficulty to maintain a particular performance parameter, such as heart rate, within a particular range or to achieve a particular performance goal. Any of the executable controls described herein may be generated or configured to change parameters of the exercise machine 102 to assist the user 106 in achieving or exceeding this performance goal or goal.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 3, in various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system 300 described herein allows the user 106 to create an account (e.g., a user profile) and store and manage user data (e.g., performance data). As described above, the system allows the user 106 to view a schedule of upcoming live exercise classes, sign up for future live streaming exercise classes, and set reminders. The user 106 can also invite others to join the live exercise classes and set text, email, voice, or other notifications and calendar entries. The user 106 can access the system, account, performance, and all other data through a web-based or application-based interface for desktop and/or mobile devices in addition to the local system 100 user interface associated with the exercise machine 102.

In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system 300 provides for simultaneous participation by multiple users in recorded exercise classes synchronized by the system, allowing access to all of the same communication and data sharing capabilities available in live exercise classes. This capability allows participants participating simultaneously in the same archived exercise class to compete against each other, as well as against past performances or "virtual" participants in the same exercise class. In some of the examples described herein, one or more executable controls are generated or configured to modify parameters of the exercise machine 102 to help the user 106 match this past performance, "virtual" participant, and/or other performance objectives or goals.

In some examples, the networked exercise system 300 is configured to provide synchronized live or archived video content and live or archived sensor data to users over the network 306. In various exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the networked exercise system 300 is configured with multiple user exercise machines 102 in communication with a video content delivery network 306. The user exercise machines 102 may be in communication with various other networks and servers. Additionally, in any of the examples described herein, a control station (not shown) may provide signals over the network 306 to control the collection, storage, and maintenance of data (e.g., user data, video content, audio content, various exercise machine 102 parameters, etc.) throughout the networked exercise system 300.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary user interface 400 of the present disclosure, which is similar and/or the same as the user interface 200 described above with respect to FIG. 2. In this example, the user interface 400 is provided to the user 106 during a selected exercise class. When an exercise class is being displayed or otherwise provided by the user interface 400 via one or more displays 104, in various exemplary embodiments, the primary video feed is shown as background video full screen or in a sub-window on the display 104. Information elements are provided in various portions of the display screen to show any performance metrics, including total time, time elapsed, time remaining, distance, speed (e.g., speed of the belt 120), mile pace of the user 106, incline (e.g., incline of the deck 112), height, resistance, braking force, power, total work, energy expended (e.g., power), cadence (e.g., pedal cadence), heart rate, respiration, hydration, calorie burn, and/or a custom performance score that may be improved. The displayed information may include trends or relationships of various performance metrics. For example, the display 104 may show certain metrics with a color that indicates current performance compared to average performance for an exercise class or over time (e.g., red to indicate that the user's 106 current performance is below average, or green to indicate that the user's 106 current performance is above average). Trends or relative performance may also be displayed using colors and symbols, such as a red down arrow to indicate that current performance is below average.

In various exemplary embodiments, the display 104 may display information that supports or supplements the information provided by the instructor. An example includes one or more segmented timelines 402 shown in the user interface 400 along with at least a portion of a selected exercise class. As shown in at least FIGS. 4 and 5, the exemplary segmented timeline 402 includes one or more segments 404a, 404b, 404c, ..., 404n (collectively "segments 404") corresponding to respective portions, parts or other exercise segments of the selected exercise class. The size, length, width, height, relative position, color, opacity and/or other configuration of the segments 404 may represent, for example, the length of the corresponding portion or part of the selected exercise class. The segmented timeline 402 may provide an indication 406 of the elapsed and/or remaining time of the current workout segment and/or the general exercise class. The segmented timeline 402 may include one or more visual markings 408a, 408b, 408c, ..., 408n (collectively "markings 408") indicating activity requirements (e.g., running, jogging, sprinting, lifting weights, etc.), equipment requirements (e.g., dumbbells), and/or other requirements associated with each exercise segment of the selected exercise class. For example, marking 408a indicates that segment 404a includes a walking segment, marking 408d indicates that segment 404c includes a running segment, and marking 408b indicates that weights are required for at least a portion of segment 404a. In any of the examples described herein, the segmented timeline 402 also includes one or more lists or windows that identify or describe upcoming workout segments or features, instructional information such as symbols or videos showing how to properly perform an exercise, or other information associated with the exercise class in progress. This segmented timeline 402 may provide or otherwise include information 409 indicative of the current segment of the exercise class and/or the current activity that the instructor is requesting the user 106 to perform.

As shown at least in FIG. 4, the user interface 400 includes a primary window 410 configured to display live or archived exercise classes or other content selected by the user 106. In various exemplary embodiments, the user interface 400 further includes one or more performance metrics windows 412 (e.g., a "scorecard" as shown in FIG. 4) overlaid on or otherwise displayed with the primary window 410. The performance metrics windows 412 display rankings, total power, current power, incline, belt speed, mile pace, and/or other specific performance metrics for the user's current exercise class, past exercise classes, or other performance information. The performance metrics windows 412 are present anywhere on the display 104 and are user selectable to be displayed or removed by screen touch or gesture.

The user interface 400 also allows the user 106 to toggle between displaying maximum, average, and total results of various performance metrics. Additionally, the user interface 400 allows the user 106 to hide or display information elements including performance metrics, video streams, user information, etc., all at once or individually. Performance metrics and/or other performance information may also be displayed in various display bars 414, 416, which may be hidden or displayed, either as a group or individually. The user interface 400 provides full control of audio volume, input and output, as well as display output characteristics.

In any of the examples described herein, the user interface 400 may include one or more additional windows 418 overlaid on or otherwise displayed with the primary window 410, the additional windows 418 including one or more executable controls operable to modify parameters of the exercise machine 102 while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the additional windows 418 include a number of executable controls configured to modify the speed of the belt 120, the incline of the deck 112, the resistance associated with the belt 120, the pedal cadence of the cycling machine, the braking force or resistance of the cycling machine, and/or other parameters of the exercise machine 102. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, in an embodiment in which the exercise machine 102 includes a treadmill, the window 418 includes an executable control 420 for "jogging," an executable control 422 for "running," an executable control 424 for "sprinting," and/or other executable controls configured to modify the speed of the belt 120. In particular, the executable controls are configured to receive one or more inputs from the user 106 while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102. The "jogging" executable control 420, the "running" executable control 422, and the "sprinting" executable control 424 may be operable to modify the speed of the belt 120 based at least in part on the inputs.

In this example, the "jogging" executable control 420 is associated with a first speed of the belt 120 such that upon receiving a touch input via the executable control 420, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 controls a motor of the deck 112 that drives the belt 120 to rotate the belt 120 around the deck 112 at a speed corresponding to the jogging pace of the user 106. In some examples, the speed associated with the "jogging" executable control 420 is a default jogging pace stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 or associated with the executable control 420. Alternatively, in other examples, the speed associated with the "jogging" executable control 420 is customized, programmed, entered, or otherwise selected by the user 106 when establishing a user profile specific to the user 106, before the user 106 begins participating in a current exercise class, while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class, or at any other time. Thus, in this example, user 106 selects the desired speed at which belt 120 rotates when the user selects or otherwise provides touch input via "jogging" executable control 420. In this example, the speed of belt 120 and/or other parameters of exercise machine 102 associated with "jogging" executable control 420 are stored as part of a user profile of user 106 in memory associated with digital hardware 148 or other memory associated with, for example, database 304 and/or one or more servers 302 of exercise system 300 (FIG. 3).

In a further example, the speed associated with the "jogging" executable control 420 is a speed identified, calculated, selected or otherwise determined, for example, by a processor of the exercise machine 102 and/or a processor or other component of one or more servers 302. In this further example, the speed associated with the "jogging" executable control 420 is determined based on aggregate user data, for example, related to past user selections, past user performance or other previous workouts of the user 106. In this example, for example, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 senses, collects or otherwise determines user data including a belt speed typically selected by the user 106 during participation in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102. In this example, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 stores this user data in a memory associated with the digital hardware 148. The processor may select, identify or otherwise determine a belt speed frequently selected by the user 106 based at least in part on this user data and associate the selected speed with the "jogging" executable control 420. For example, the selected speed may be associated with a warm-up period/segment of a previous exercise class in which the user 106 participated, including the speed most frequently selected by the user 106 during the previous warm-up period/segment. As described in more detail below, in further examples, one or more additional methods may be used by the processor of the digital hardware 148 in determining the speed to associate with the "jogging" executable control 420.

It will be appreciated that the "running" executable control 422, the "sprinting" executable control 424 and/or other controls included in the window 418 may be configured in a similar manner. For example, the "running" executable control 422 is associated with a second speed of the belt 120 that is greater than the first speed described above with respect to the "jogging" executable control 420. In this example, when the executable control 422 receives a touch input, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 controls a motor of the deck 112 that drives the belt 120 to rotate the belt 120 around the deck 112 at a speed corresponding to the running pace of the user 106. In some examples, the speed associated with the "running" executable control 420 is a default running pace stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 or associated with the executable control 422. Alternatively, in another example, the speed associated with the "running" executable control 420 is input or otherwise selected by the user 106 before the user 106 begins participating in the current exercise class, while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class, or at any other time when establishing a user profile specific to the user 106. Thus, in this example, the user 106 selects the desired speed at which the belt 120 rotates when the user selects or otherwise provides a touch input via the "running" executable control 420. In this example, the speed of the belt 120 and/or other parameters of the exercise machine 102 associated with the "running" executable control 420 are stored as part of the user's 106 user profile in memory associated with the digital hardware 148 or other memory associated with, for example, the database 304 and/or one or more servers 302 of the exercise system 300 (FIG. 3).

In a further example, the speed associated with the "running" executable control 422 is a speed identified, calculated, selected or otherwise determined, for example, by a processor of the exercise machine 102 and/or a processor or other component of one or more servers 302. In this further example, the speed associated with the "running" executable control 422 is determined, for example, based on aggregated user data associated with past performance, selections or other workouts of the user 106. In this example, for example, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 senses, collects or otherwise determines user data including a belt speed typically selected by the user 106 during participation in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102. In this example, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 may select, identify or otherwise determine a belt speed frequently selected by the user 106 based at least in part on this user data and associate the selected speed with the "running" executable control 420. For example, the selected speed may be associated with a relatively long or sustained period/segment of a previous exercise class in which the user 106 participated, including the speed most frequently selected by the user 106 during that relatively long or sustained period/segment. As described in more detail below, in further examples, one or more additional methods may be used by the processor of the digital hardware 148 in determining the speed to associate with the "running" executable control 422.

It will be appreciated that a similar method and/or process may be used by the processor of the digital hardware 148 in determining a speed to associate with the "sprint" executable control 424. For example, this selected speed may be associated with a relatively short period/segment of a previous exercise class in which the user 106 participated, and this speed may include the highest speed most frequently selected by the user 106 during the previous relatively short period/segment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the window 418 may include a number of additional executable controls 426, 428, 430 and/or other executable controls configured to modify the incline of the deck 112 and/or other parameters of the exercise machine 102. In particular, the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may be configured to receive one or more inputs from the user 106 while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102, and the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may operate to modify the incline of the deck 112 based at least in part on the inputs. One or more of the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may be configured by a process similar to that described above with respect to the executable controls 420, 422, 424.

For example, executable control 426 is associated with a first incline of deck 112, executable control 428 is associated with a second incline of deck 112 that is greater than the first incline, and executable control 430 is associated with a third incline of deck 112 that is greater than both the first and second inclines. In this example, when executable control 426 receives a touch input, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of exercise machine 102 increases or decreases the incline of deck 112 by controlling motors of deck 112 that control the incline of deck 112 so that the incline of deck 112 matches the incline associated with executable control 426. The processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of exercise machine 102 may increase or decrease the incline of deck 112 in a similar manner in response to receiving touch input by executable controls 428, 430 by controlling motors of deck 112 that control the incline of deck 112.

In some examples, the respective inclinations of the deck 112 associated with the executable controls 426, 428, 430 include respective default inclinations stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 or otherwise associated with the executable controls 426, 428, 430. Alternatively, in other examples, the respective inclinations of the deck 112 associated with the executable controls 426, 428, 430 are entered, customized, or otherwise selected by the user 106 when establishing a user profile specific to the user 106, before the user 106 begins participating in a current exercise class, while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class, or at any other time. Thus, in this example, the user 106 selects the respective inclinations at which the user 106 desires the deck 112 to be positioned relative to the support surface on which the exercise machine 102 is positioned when the user 106 selects or otherwise provides touch inputs via the various executable controls 426, 428, 430. In this example, the respective tilts of the deck 112 associated with the executable controls 426, 428, 430 are stored as part of a user profile for the user 106 in memory associated with the digital hardware 148 or other memory associated with, for example, the database 304 and/or one or more servers 302 of the exercise system 300 (FIG. 3).

In a further example, the respective inclines of the deck 112 associated with the executable controls 426, 428, 430 include inclines that are identified, calculated, selected, or otherwise determined, for example, by a processor of the exercise machine 102 and/or a processor or other component of one or more servers 302. In this further example, the respective inclines of the deck 112 associated with the executable controls 426, 428, 430 are determined based on aggregated user data associated with past performance or other workouts of the user 106, for example. In this example, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 senses, collects, or otherwise determines user data including deck incline settings typically selected by the user 106 during participation in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102. In this example, the processor and/or other digital hardware 148 of the exercise machine 102 stores this user data in a memory associated with the digital hardware 148. The processor may select, identify, or otherwise determine a deck incline frequently selected by user 106 based at least in part on the user data and associate one or more of the deck inclines with a respective executable control 426, 428, 430. For example, during a warm-up period/segment of multiple previous exercise classes in which user 106 participated, the user may select to jog at a relatively flat deck incline. In this example, the deck incline most frequently selected by user 106 during the previous warm-up period/segment is about 0.0 (e.g., a deck attitude substantially horizontal with respect to the support surface on which exercise machine 102 is placed). In this example, the processor of digital hardware 148 may select, identify, or otherwise determine the deck incline frequently selected by user 106 based at least in part on user data collected by exercise machine 102 across multiple exercise classes in which user 106 participates. The processor of digital hardware 148 may associate the deck incline with a respective one of the executable controls (e.g., with executable control 426 shown in FIG. 4). The processor of the digital hardware 148 may associate the deck slope with each executable control 428, 430 in a similar manner. As described in more detail below, in further examples, one or more additional methods may be used by the processor of the digital hardware 148 in determining the deck slope associated with the various executable controls 426, 428, 430 described herein. Additionally, as described above, any of the processes described herein with respect to configuring, generating, providing, displaying, or modifying one or more of the executable controls 420, 422, 424, 426, 428, 430 may be performed locally on the exercise machine 102 by a processor of the digital hardware 148, or may be performed remotely from the exercise machine 102 by one or more processors of the server 302, or by a processor of the digital hardware 148 operating in communication with or in combination with one or more processors of the server 302.

4, in some examples, the window 418 includes an executable control 432 operable to close the window 418 such that the window 418 (and the executable controls provided in the window 418) are no longer displayed on the display 104. Additionally, in any of the examples described herein, the window 418 and/or other portions of the user interface 400 include an executable control 434 operable to allow the user 106 to customize one or more of the executable controls 420, 422, 424, 426, 428, 430 provided by the window 418. For example, the executable control 434 is configured to receive a touch input from the user 106 indicating a request to change at least one setting of one or more of the executable controls 420, 422, 424, 426, 428, 430 provided by the window 418. Based at least in part on this input, the processor of digital hardware 148 provides one or more additional controls, windows or other components via user interface 400 to allow user 106 to increase or decrease a belt speed associated with one or more of executable controls 420, 422, 424, increase or decrease a deck tilt associated with one or more of executable controls 426, 428, 430, or change (e.g., customize) one or more settings associated with any of the other executable controls provided by user interface 400. It is understood that the changes may be saved or otherwise associated with a user profile of user 106 and may be accessed, recalled or otherwise utilized upon accessing a user profile of exercise machine 102 and/or other exercise machines 102. For example, the changed settings may be automatically used (e.g., automatically associated with one or more respective executable controls of user interface 400) when user 106 participates in future exercise classes via exercise machine 102. Additionally, in some embodiments, window 418 is omitted from user interface 400. In this embodiment, one or more of the executable controls 420, 422, 424, 426, 428, 430, 434 described above with respect to window 418 are displayed or otherwise provided by user interface 400 without window 418.

FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary user interface 500 of the present disclosure. In this example, the user interface 500 may be substantially similar to the user interface 400 described above with respect to FIG. 4 or may be substantially similar to the user interface 200 described above with respect to FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 5, the exemplary user interface 500 includes, among other things, a leaderboard 502, where the user 106 may view a display of the leaderboard 502 to view his or her performance relative to other users participating in the same exercise class. In various exemplary embodiments, the leaderboard 502 includes a separate window that is overlaid on or otherwise displayed with the primary window 410. The exemplary leaderboard 502 is configured to display the relative performance of all participants and/or one or more subgroups of participants. For example, the user 106 may select a leaderboard 502 that shows the performance of participants in a particular age range, male participants, female participants, male participants in a particular age group, participants in a particular geographic area, etc. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 5, the leaderboard 502 is configured to display the performance of a group of female participants in their twenties. The user 106 may curate or otherwise configure the leaderboard 502 individually, or the leaderboard 502 may be curated locally to the system 100 by selecting an appropriate group of participants associated with the user 106. By curating their own leaderboard 502 for a particular exercise class that has been previously recorded, the user 106 may create a leaderboard 502 that provides the user 106 with the greatest personal performance incentive.

The user 106 may also deselect the leaderboard 502 entirely and remove it from the user interface 500. In various exemplary embodiments, the exercise machine 102 incorporates various social networking aspects, such as allowing the user 106 to follow other participants or to create groups or circles of participants. The user lists and information may be accessed, sorted, filtered, and used in a wide variety of ways. For example, other users may be sorted, grouped, or categorized based on any characteristic, including personal information such as age, gender, weight, or based on performance such as current power, speed, or custom scores.

The leaderboard 502 may be fully interactive, allowing the user 106 to scroll up and down the participant rankings and select a participant to access detailed performance data, make a connection, such as choosing to follow that participant, or establish direct communication, for example, via an audio and/or video connection. The leaderboard 502 may display the user's personal best performance in the same or comparable exercise class, allowing the user 106 to compare their current performance to a previous personal best performance. In some examples, this performance information may be displayed in one or more of the display bars 414, 416. The leaderboard 502 may highlight a particular participant, such as a participant that the user 106 follows, or may provide other visual cues to indicate a connection or provide other information regarding a particular entry on the leaderboard 502.

In various exemplary embodiments, the leaderboard 502 also allows the user 106 to always see their position and performance information as they scroll through the leaderboard 502. For example, if the user 106 scrolls up toward the top of the leaderboard 502, such as by dragging a finger upward on the display 104, when the user's window reaches the bottom of the leaderboard 502, the leaderboard 502 locks in position and the remainder of the leaderboard 502 scrolls below. Similarly, if the user 106 scrolls down toward the bottom of the leaderboard 502, when the user's window reaches the top of the leaderboard 502, the leaderboard 502 locks in position and the remainder of the leaderboard 502 continues to scroll below. In various exemplary embodiments, performance information regarding other users may be presented on the leaderboard 502 or in any other format, including a format that allows sorting by relevant performance parameters. Users may choose whether to make their performance available to all users, selected users and/or instructors, or to keep it private so that no one else can see it.

As shown in FIG. 5, the exemplary user interface 500 may include one or more executable controls 504 that are generated based at least in part on verbal instructions from an exercise class instructor. For example, the executable controls 504 may correspond to a particular exercise class in which the user 106 is currently participating, and the executable controls 504 may be provided to the user 106 by the user interface 500 while the user 106 is participating in the exercise class using the exercise machine 102. Additionally, the executable controls 504 may be operative to modify one or more parameters of the exercise machine 102 in response to one or more touch inputs. In this example, the executable controls 504 are embedded, linked, or otherwise associated with a portion of a video file, including audio and video, of the exercise class being presented by the user interface 500. In particular, the executable controls 504 are linked to a portion of the video file of the exercise class that corresponds to a timestamp associated with the verbal instructions issued by the exercise class instructor. In this example, when an exercise class is displayed through the user interface 500 (e.g., when the exercise class is played back in substantially real time through live streaming or using an archived video file), the processor of the digital hardware 148 provides controls 504 executable by the user interface 500 at points during the exercise class when the instructor issues verbal instructions.

In an exemplary embodiment, the executable control 504 is substantially similar to or identical to one or more of the executable controls 420, 422, 424, 426, 428, 430 described above with respect to FIG. 4. For example, the executable control 504 may correspond to an exercise class currently being conducted by an instructor, and the executable control 504 may operate to change one or more parameters of the exercise machine 102 that the user 106 is using to participate in the exercise class. For example, the executable control 504 may be configured to change the speed of the belt 120 of the exercise machine 102 being utilized by the user 106, the inclination of the deck 112 relative to the support surface on which the exercise machine 102 is positioned, the resistance of the belt 120, the pedal cadence, the braking force or resistance, or any other parameter of the exercise machine 102.

For example, in some embodiments, the instructor issues relatively specific instructions during the exercise class. Examples of relatively specific instructions include, among others, "run 1 mile at a 6 minute pace," "set incline to 5.0," "power in zone 4 for the next 2 minutes," or any other relatively clear instructions corresponding to a desired speed of the belt 120, a desired running speed of the user 106, a desired incline of the deck 112, a desired power zone of the user 106, a desired power level of the user 106, a desired pedal cadence, and/or any other such parameters. The instructions correspond to a current segment and/or a current portion of the exercise class. In response, an operator of the server 302 and/or any other operator of a control station associated with the studio where the instructor is conducting the exercise class identifies the verbal instructions issued by the instructor and generates executable controls 504 based at least in part on the instructions.

In this example, the operator identifies a timestamp associated with the instruction (e.g., an elapsed time in a video file that includes audio content, video content, and/or other content corresponding to the exercise class) or otherwise identifies a point in time during the exercise class when the instructor issued the instruction. The operator embeds, links, or otherwise associates the executable control 504 with the video file that includes the exercise class. In particular, the operator may link the executable control 504 to a portion of the video file that corresponds to the timestamp. As a result, when providing the exercise class to the user 106 through the user interface 500 (e.g., when replaying the exercise class substantially in real time via live streaming or using an archived video file), the digital hardware 148 provides the executable control 504 through the user interface 500 at the point in time during the exercise class when the instructor issued the verbal instruction.

Additionally or alternatively, it will be appreciated that one or more of the executable controls 504 may be generated utilizing natural language processing software and/or other at least partially automated techniques. For example, the natural language processing software operating on the server 302 may identify verbal instructions issued by an instructor during an exercise class or after an exercise class is completed. In this example, the natural language processing software may provide an indication of the verbal instructions to the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the server 302 operable to generate the executable controls 504. In this example, the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the server 302 may generate the executable controls 504 based at least in part on this information. In some of these examples, the natural language processing software may provide an indication of the verbal instructions to one or more operators of the server 302, who may, for example, verify the accuracy of the identified verbal instructions and/or the placement of the corresponding executable controls 504 within the video file being generated by the server 302.

In additional embodiments, the instructor may issue relatively abstract or vague instructions during the exercise class. Examples of relatively abstract or vague instructions include, among others, "jog for a few minutes," "go up this hill," or any other instructions that may have different meanings to each user 106 participating in the current exercise class, but that correspond to the current segment and/or current portion of the exercise class being conducted by the instructor. In response, an operator of the server 302 and/or any other operator of a control station associated with the studio where the instructor is conducting the exercise class identifies the verbal instructions issued by the instructor and generates corresponding executable controls 504 based at least in part on the instructions.

In this example, the operator identifies a timestamp associated with the instruction (e.g., elapsed time in a video file containing audio content, video content, and/or other content corresponding to the exercise class) or otherwise identifies a point in time during the exercise class at which the instructor issued the instruction. The operator embeds, links, or otherwise associates the executable controls 504 with the video file containing the exercise class. The operator and/or server 302 further configures the executable controls 504 to affect corresponding parameters of the exercise machine 102 in a manner that is tailored to the preferences, previous activity, physical abilities, and/or other characteristics of the particular user 106 participating in the exercise class that best matches or most closely resembles the activity desired by the instructor. For example, the operator and/or server 302 may cause the processor of the digital hardware 148 to control or modify the speed of the belt 120, the incline of the deck 112, the pedal cadence of the bike, the braking force or resistance of the bike, and/or one or more other parameters of the exercise machine in a manner that most closely matches the instructor's intent and/or the contextual meaning of the instructions when the executable control 504 receives a touch input (e.g., when the executable control 504 is selected by the user 106).

For example, based at least in part on identifying the relatively abstract or vague instruction "jog for a few minutes," the operator generates executable controls 504 configured to rotate belt 120 at a four minute mile pace or another relatively common jogging pace. This setting of executable controls 504 comprises a default setting. This default setting may be utilized by the operator in situations where there is relatively little user data available corresponding to a particular user 106, where the user profile of user 106 does not include user data related to a preferred jogging pace, or in any other situation where the operator and/or server 302 is unable to access appropriate information corresponding to user 106. Alternatively, in instances where the user profile of the user 106 identifies a preferred jogging pace and/or the database 304 includes stored user data or other information indicative of a previously selected, previously customized, or previously entered jogging speed of a particular user 106, the weight, height, age, sex, or other physical characteristics of the user 106, or other such information, the operator generates executable controls 504 configured to rotate the belt 120 at a jogging pace corresponding to this user-specific information.

In particular, in any of the examples described herein in which a relatively vague or abstract instruction is identified, an operator of server 302 generates an executable control 504 corresponding to the instruction, and upon receiving a touch input via executable control 504, while an exercise class is being presented to user 106 by user interface 500, a processor of digital hardware 148 determines an appropriate response (e.g., an appropriate modification of one or more parameters of exercise machine 102) based on user data stored in a memory of digital hardware 148 or in a database 304 associated with server 302. As described above, this appropriate response may include default settings (e.g., a default jogging speed and/or a default deck inclination associated with jogging), previously selected, previously customized, or previously entered settings (e.g., a jogging speed and/or jogging deck inclination included in a user profile of the user 106), or settings determined by a processor of the server 302 based at least in part on the processor of the digital hardware 148 and/or user data stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 or stored in the database 304 (e.g., aggregated user data corresponding to users 106 who have participated in one or more previous exercise classes using the exercise machine 102).

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method 600 of the present disclosure. The exemplary method 600 is illustrated as a set of steps in a logical flow diagram, which represent operations that can be performed by hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the case of software, the steps represent computer-executable instructions stored in memory. The computer-executable instructions, when executed by, for example, a processor of the digital hardware 148 and/or one or more processors of the back-end server 302 described above, cause the processors to perform the operations (steps) described in the flow diagram of FIG. 6. Computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform a particular function or implement a particular abstract data type. The order of the operations (steps) described in the flow diagram of FIG. 6 is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of steps may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the method 600. For purposes of explanation, unless otherwise specified, the method 600 will be described with reference to the local system 100, the exercise machine 102, the user 106, the user interfaces 200, 400, and/or other components shown in FIGS. 1-5. Any portion and/or the entire method 600 may be performed by one or more processors of the server 302 and/or other components of the networked exercise system 300. However, for ease of explanation, the method 600 will be described as being performed by a processor of the digital hardware 148, unless otherwise specified.

6, at step 602, the processor of the digital hardware 148 receives user data associated with a user 106 participating in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102. For example, as described above, the exercise machine 102 includes one or more sensors 147 configured to sense, collect, measure, and/or otherwise obtain performance metrics of the user 106, parameters of the exercise machine 102, and/or other information. For example, such sensors 147 may include a heart rate monitor, a proximity sensor, and/or other biometric sensors configured to sense, collect, measure, and/or otherwise obtain a heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and/or other physical characteristics of the user 106 when the user participates in an exercise class using the exercise machine 102. The exercise machine 102 may also include one or more additional sensors configured to sense, collect, measure, and/or otherwise obtain the speed of the belt 120, the inclination of the deck 112, the resistance of the belt 120, the rotational speed of the output shaft of the motor used to drive the belt 120, the position of the output shaft of the motor used to change the inclination of the deck 112 relative to the support surface on which the exercise machine 102 is placed, the pedal cadence of the cycling machine, the braking force or resistance of the cycling machine, and/or other parameters of the exercise machine 102. In such examples, the one or more sensors 147 may include, among others, proximity sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and/or other sensors configured to obtain speed, motion, position, and/or other parameters. In any of the examples described herein, in step 602, the one or more sensors 147 provide signals (e.g., continuously, substantially continuously, and/or at regular intervals) including the user data and/or other information described above to the processor of the digital hardware 148.

Further, in step 602, the processor of the digital hardware 148 receives electronic content via the network 306 described above. In such an example, the electronic content may include, among other things, one or more signals from the server 302 and/or other components of the networked exercise system 300. In turn, the signals may include any of the user data described above. Additionally and/or alternatively, the electronic content may include, among other things, an exercise class. For example, the user 106 may use the exercise machine 102 to participate in a live exercise class that is streamed in substantially real-time. In such an example, the electronic content may include one or more video files (e.g., a live stream) that include audio, video, and/or other content associated with the live exercise class. Alternatively, the user 106 may use the exercise machine 102 to participate in an archival (e.g., previously recorded) exercise class. In such an example, the electronic content may include one or more video files that include audio, video, and/or other content associated with the archival exercise class.

Additionally, in any of the examples described herein, in step 602, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may receive a plurality of user data corresponding to various exercise classes. For example, in step 602, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may receive first user data corresponding to a first exercise class that the user 106 is currently participating in or has previously participated in using the exercise machine 102. Additionally, in step 602, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may receive other user data corresponding to one or more other exercise classes (e.g., a second exercise class, a third exercise class, etc.) that the user 106 has previously participated in using the exercise machine 102. In any of such examples, the user data received in step 602 may be stored locally (e.g., in the memory of the digital hardware 148) and/or remotely (e.g., in a database 304 associated with the networked exercise system 300). Additionally, it should be appreciated that the user data received at step 602 may include a set of belt speeds, deck inclines, belt resistances, and/or other parameters that the user 106 selects, inputs, and/or otherwise utilizes while participating in one or more exercise classes (e.g., exercise classes) using the exercise machine 102. Such user data is received at step 602 for each exercise class in which the user 106 participates.

In step 604, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines whether the amount of user data received in step 602 includes a minimum amount of user data required to generate an executable control of the present disclosure (hereinafter referred to as the "minimum required amount of user data"). For example, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines whether the minimum required amount of user data has been received to determine with a relatively high degree of confidence one or more settings of an executable control generated by the processor of the digital hardware 148. For example, in an embodiment in which the minimum required amount of user data is user data related to two exercise classes, but in which the processor of the digital hardware 148 received user data related to only one exercise class in step 602, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines that the amount of user data received in step 602 is less than the minimum required amount of user data (step 604: No). On the other hand, in an embodiment in which user data associated with three or more exercise classes (e.g., a combination of first user data associated with a first exercise class, second user data associated with a second exercise class, and third user data associated with a third exercise class) is received in step 602 when the required minimum amount of user data is associated with two exercise classes, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines that the amount of user data received in step 602 exceeds the required minimum amount of user data (step 604: Yes).

In step 606, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines whether the user data received in step 602 is characterized by, indicative of, and/or otherwise corresponds to one or more metrics that exceed a required threshold. For example, in embodiments in which more than the minimum required amount of user data is received in step 602 (step 604: Yes), such user data may or may not be sufficient to determine one or more settings of an executable control or to generate an executable control. For example, one or more minimum percentage thresholds, minimum time length thresholds, frequency ranges, minimum and/or maximum parameter values, and/or other metrics may be set or otherwise utilized in the process of generating an executable control. In any of the examples described herein, in step 606, the processor of the digital hardware 148 compares the user data received in step 602 to one or more of the thresholds and/or other metrics to determine whether the user data received in step 602 satisfies one or more of the thresholds and/or other metrics.

For example, in one embodiment, the one or more thresholds and/or other metrics may include a minimum percentage threshold (e.g., 20%, 25%, 30%, etc.) associated with the percentage of the total duration of the exercise class that the user 106 selects, enters, and/or otherwise utilizes a particular belt speed, deck incline, belt resistance, and/or other parameter of the exercise machine 102 while participating in the exercise class. In such an exemplary embodiment, if the user utilizes a particular belt speed (e.g., a speed corresponding to a 6 minute mile pace) for a percentage of the total duration of the exercise class corresponding to the user data determined in step 606 that exceeds the minimum percentage threshold (e.g., 20%) (step 606: Yes), the digital hardware 148 processor proceeds to step 608. On the other hand, if the user 106 utilizes a particular belt speed for a percentage of the total duration of the exercise class that corresponds to the user data being determined in step 606 that is equal to or less than the minimum percentage threshold (step 606: No), processing by the processor of the digital hardware 148 proceeds to step 602.

In another exemplary embodiment, the one or more thresholds and/or other metrics may include a minimum time (e.g., 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, etc.) within the total duration of an exercise class that the user 106 selects, enters, and/or otherwise utilizes a particular belt speed, deck incline, belt resistance, and/or other parameters of the exercise machine 102 while participating in the exercise class. In such an exemplary embodiment, if the user 106 utilizes a particular belt speed (e.g., a speed corresponding to a 6 minute mile pace) for a length of time that exceeds the minimum time within the duration of the exercise class (e.g., the exercise class corresponding to the user data to be determined in step 606) (step 606: Yes), the digital hardware 148 processor proceeds to step 608. On the other hand, if the user 106 utilizes a particular belt speed for a length of time that is equal to or less than the minimum time within the duration of the exercise class (step 606: No), the digital hardware 148 processor proceeds to step 602. In further exemplary embodiments, as described above, the one or more metrics or thresholds may include a belt speed range, a deck incline range, a belt resistance range, a pedal cadence range, a braking force or resistance range, and/or other parameter ranges associated with the exercise machine 102. Additionally and/or alternatively, maximum and/or minimum belt speeds, deck incline, resistance ranges, and/or other values corresponding to parameters of the exercise machine 102 may also be used by the processor of the digital hardware 148 for comparison purposes in step 606.

In step 608, the processor of the digital hardware 148 generates one or more executable controls for the user interface 400 based at least in part on the user data received in step 602. For example, as described with respect to FIG. 4, the user interface 400 includes a window 418 that is overlaid on or otherwise displayed with the primary window 410. The window 418 includes one or more executable controls that are operable to modify parameters of the exercise machine 102 while the user 106 is participating in an exercise class. As shown in FIG. 4, the window 418 includes a number of executable controls configured to modify the speed of the belt 120, the incline of the deck 112, the resistance associated with the belt 120, the pedal cadence of the cycling machine, the braking force or resistance of the cycling machine, and/or other parameters of the exercise machine 102. For example, the executable controls may include a "jog" executable control 420, a "run" executable control 422, a "sprint" executable control 424, one or more deck incline executable controls 426, 428, 430, and/or other executable controls configured to change the speed of the belt 120 and/or the incline of the deck 112. In such examples, the speed associated with each of the executable controls 420, 422, 424 may be a default belt speed stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 and/or in the database 304. Similarly, the deck incline associated with each of the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may be a default deck incline height stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 and/or in the database 304. Alternatively, in other examples, the user 106 may input or select the speed associated with each of the executable controls 420, 422, 424 when setting up a user profile specific to the user 106, before the user 106 participates in a current exercise class, while the user 106 participates in an exercise class, and/or at any other time. Similarly, the deck incline associated with each of the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may be a deck incline height that is input or selected in a similar manner by the user 106. In yet another example, the speed associated with each of the executable controls 420, 422, 424 and/or the deck incline associated with each of the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may include a speed or deck incline that is identified, calculated, selected, and/or otherwise determined by, for example, a processor of the digital hardware 148 and/or a processor or other components of the one or more servers 302. In such an example, the speed associated with each of the executable controls 420, 422, 424 and/or the deck incline associated with each of the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may be determined in accordance with steps 604, 606 described above, for example, based on aggregated user data (e.g., user data received in step 602) related to the user's 106's past performance or other athletic activity. In any of the examples described herein, the one or more executable controls generated in step 608 may include data files, text files, digital files, metadata, settings, requirements, instructions, and/or any other electronic files executable by a processor of the digital hardware 148 to modify at least one parameter of the exercise machine 102.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, one or more of the executable controls generated in step 608 may include one or more settings associated with changing parameters of the exercise machine 102. For example, as described above, one or more of the executable controls 420, 422, 424 may be configured to change, set, and/or otherwise adjust the speed of the belt 120, in which case the speed associated with each of the executable controls 420, 422, 424 may include the respective settings of the executable controls 420, 422, 424. Similarly, one or more of the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may be configured to change, set, and/or otherwise adjust the incline of the deck 112, in which case the incline height associated with each of the executable controls 426, 428, 430 may include the respective settings of the executable controls 426, 428, 430.

Additionally, in some examples, the user interface 400 may include two or more executable controls configured to change certain parameters of the exercise machine 102. In such examples, one or more executable controls may exist as components of the user interface 400 before the one or more executable controls are generated in step 608. Thus, in step 610, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines whether the settings of one or more of the executable controls generated in step 608 are sufficiently different from the settings of one or more existing executable controls included in the user interface 400. For example, in some cases, the user interface 400 may include a first executable control (e.g., executable control 420) having a first setting corresponding to the speed of the belt 120 (e.g., a belt speed equal to a 6 minute mile pace). In such examples, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may generate a second executable control (e.g., executable control 422) having a second setting corresponding to the speed of the belt 120 (e.g., a belt speed equal to a 5.0 minute mile pace). In such an example, in step 610, the processor of digital hardware 148 determines whether the difference between the first setting of a first executable control (e.g., executable control 420) and the second setting of a second executable control (e.g., executable control 422) exceeds a predetermined threshold. In such an example, the threshold may have any desired value corresponding to parameters of exercise machine 102 associated with the various executable controls being determined in step 610, such as the age, sex, weight, health, fitness, and/or other physical condition of user 106, and/or any other characteristic associated with the exercise class in which user 106 participates. In such an example, if the processor of digital hardware 148 determines in step 610 that the difference between the first setting and the second setting does not exceed the predetermined threshold (step 610: No), the processor of digital hardware 148 proceeds to step 612. In step 612, the processor of digital hardware 148 then modifies the setting of the newly created executable control to satisfy the threshold. Alternatively, in step 612, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may delete the executable control generated in step 608. On the other hand, if in step 610, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines that the difference between the first setting and the second setting exceeds a predetermined threshold (step 610: Yes), the process of the processor of the digital hardware 148 proceeds to 614.

Further, as described above, in some examples of the present disclosure, one or more controls 434 included in the user interface 400 can be operative to receive one or more touch inputs indicating a request to customize and/or otherwise change one or more settings of the executable controls provided via the user interface 400. For example, in response to receiving touch input via the control 434, the processor of the digital hardware 148 provides one or more number pads, text entry fields, slider bars, control wheels, and/or other controls configured to receive further input from the user 106 via the user interface 400. In such examples, the processor of the digital hardware 148 can receive one or more touch inputs via such additional controls indicating a request for a change to the settings of at least one of the executable controls 420, 422, 424, 426, 428, 430 included in the user interface 400. In such an example, the processor of the digital hardware 148 changes the setting of at least one of the executable controls 420, 422, 424, 426, 428, 430 included in the user interface 400 based at least in part on one or more touch inputs received via such additional controls.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 6, in some examples, one or more of the executable controls generated in step 608 are provided to the user 106 via the user interface 400 regardless of the various configurations and/or requirements of the exercise class in which the user 106 is currently participating. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the processor of the digital hardware 148 considers one or more requirements associated with the particular exercise class in which the user 106 is participating when determining whether to provide executable controls and/or change one or more settings of the executable controls while the user 106 is participating in the particular exercise class. For example, an "advanced" exercise class may have higher difficulty requirements and/or other class-specific performance requirements than a "beginner" exercise class. For example, an exemplary performance requirement for an "advanced" exercise class may require the user 106 participating in the exercise class to sprint at a relatively fast speed, for a relatively long time, and/or at a relatively steep incline. On the other hand, the corresponding performance requirement for a "beginner" exercise class may be less demanding than an "advanced" exercise class. For example, an "Advanced" exercise class may specify performance requirements including a minimum belt speed corresponding to a 5.0 minute mile pace and/or a minimum deck incline that slopes to approximately 8 inches measured between the front end of the exercise machine 102 and the substantially horizontal support surface on which the exercise machine 102 is placed. Meanwhile, an exemplary "Beginner" exercise class may specify performance requirements including a minimum belt speed corresponding to an 8.0 minute mile pace and/or a minimum deck incline that slopes to approximately 3 inches measured between the front end of the exercise machine 102 and the substantially horizontal support surface on which the exercise machine 102 is placed.

In such an example, in step 614, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines whether the executable control setting (e.g., belt speed) generated in step 608 has a value equal to or greater than the performance requirement (i.e., class requirement) specified by the current exercise class. In such an example, if the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines in step 614 that the executable control setting generated in step 608 has a value less than the performance requirement specified by the exercise class (step 614: No), the processing of the processor of the digital hardware 148 proceeds to step 616. In step 616, the processor of the digital hardware 148 modifies the executable control setting generated in step 608 to satisfy one or more requirements of the exercise class. In step 616, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may also verify that the modification made to the executable control setting generated in step 608 does not contradict and/or violate the difference threshold (e.g., numerical difference) considered in step 610. In such an example, the processing of the processor of the digital hardware 148 then proceeds to step 618. On the other hand, in step 614, if the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines that the settings of the executable controls generated in step 608 have values equal to or greater than the performance requirements specified by the exercise class (step 614: Yes), the processing of the processor of the digital hardware 148 proceeds to step 618 without changing one or more settings of the executable controls generated in step 618.

As discussed above, an example exercise class of the present disclosure may include one or more exercise segments. Such exercise segments may be characterized by a desired athletic activity (e.g., jogging, sprinting, lifting weights, etc.) that an exercise class instructor instructs user 106 to perform during each exercise segment. In some examples, user interface 400 may include one or more timelines, such as segmented timeline 402. Exemplary segmented timeline 402 may include one or more segments 404 corresponding to each of the portions, parts, or other exercise segments of the exercise class in which user 106 is currently participating. Segmented timeline 402 may also include one or more visual indicia 408 indicating activity requirements (e.g., stretch, walk, run, sprint, lift weights, etc.), equipment requirements (e.g., dumbbells, yoga mat, etc.), and/or other requirements associated with each exercise segment of the exercise class. In an exemplary embodiment, the processor of digital hardware 148 considers one or more activity requirements and/or other requirements associated with each exercise segment of an exercise class when determining whether to provide the executable control generated in step 608 during user 106's participation in a particular exercise class and/or whether to store or delete the executable control. For example, such activity requirements for individual exercise segments may characterize the respective segment as a particular type (e.g., a stretching segment, a walking segment, a running segment, a sprinting segment, a weightlifting segment, etc.). In such an example, the processor of digital hardware 148 provides the executable control generated in step 608 only in the exercise segment to which the executable control corresponds or is associated. For example, an executable control generated in step 608 configured to move or rotate belt 120 of exercise machine 102 at a speed corresponding to a 5.5 minute mile pace does not correspond or be associated with a stretching segment, a walking segment, or a weightlifting segment. Thus, the processor of the digital hardware 148 does not provide executable controls during such exercise segments that do not correspond to or relate to the exercise segment, based at least in part on the respective activity requirements associated with the exercise segment.

For example, in step 618, the processor of the digital hardware 148 identifies an exercise segment of an exercise class in which the user 106 is participating and also identifies an activity requirement associated with the exercise segment. In step 618, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines whether the executable control settings (e.g., belt 120 speed, deck 112 incline, bike pedal cadence, bike brake force or resistance, etc.) generated in step 608 correspond to, relate to, and/or otherwise satisfy an activity requirement associated with the exercise segment. As described above, in such an example, the processor of the digital hardware 148 in step 618 determines whether the executable control settings are associated with the type of exercise segment in which the user 106 is currently participating. In such an example, the exercise segment may be characterized by or include metadata, classification tags, and/or other information that identifies the exercise segment as being of a particular type (e.g., a stretching segment, a walking segment, a running segment, a sprinting segment, a weightlifting segment, etc.). The executable controls generated at step 608 may also be characterized by or include metadata, classification tags, and/or other information that identifies the exercise segment as being of a particular type (e.g., a stretching segment, a walking segment, a running segment, a sprinting segment, a weightlifting segment, etc.), which may include one of the settings of the executable controls. Thus, in some examples, at step 618, the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines whether the settings of the executable controls (e.g., information identifying a particular type of executable control) correspond, relate, match, and/or otherwise satisfy the activity requirements (e.g., information identifying a particular type of exercise segment) of the exercise segment in which the user 106 is currently participating. If at step 618 it is determined that the settings of the executable controls do not correspond, relate, match, and/or otherwise satisfy the activity requirements (step 618: No), processing of the processor of the digital hardware 148 proceeds to step 620. Then, in step 620, the processor of the digital hardware 148 stores the executable controls in memory and/or database 304 associated with the processor of the digital hardware 148. On the other hand, if in step 618 the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines that the settings of the executable controls correspond to, relate to, match, and/or otherwise satisfy the activity requirements of the exercise segment (step 618: Yes), processing of the processor of the digital hardware 148 proceeds to step 622.

In step 622, the processor of the digital hardware 148 provides executable controls via the display 104 while the user 106 is participating in a particular exercise class. In such an example, as described above, the executable controls provided in step 622 may operate to modify one or more parameters of the exercise machine 102 while the user 106 is participating in the exercise class.

In step 624, the processor of the digital hardware 148 stores the executable controls in memory and/or database 304 associated with the processor of the digital hardware 148. In some examples, in step 624, the processor associates the executable controls stored in the memory and/or database 304 of the digital hardware 148 with a user profile specific to the user 106. For example, as described above, the user 106 can generate a user profile during a setup procedure for the exercise machine 102 and can continue to update the user profile over time with preferences, desired exercise machine settings, and/or other information specific to the user 106. In such examples, the user profile is configured such that when the user profile is accessed by the exercise machine 102 and/or one or more other exercise machines 102 as the user 106 participates in one or more additional exercise classes, the executable controls stored in association with the user profile are provided via the display 104 of the one or more additional exercise machines 102.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating another exemplary method 700 of the present disclosure. As with the method 600 above, the exemplary method 700 is illustrated as a set of steps in a logical flow diagram, which represent operations that can be performed by hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the case of software, the steps represent computer-executable instructions stored in memory. The computer-executable instructions, when executed by, for example, a processor of the digital hardware 148 and/or one or more processors of the back-end server 302 described above, cause the processors to perform the operations (steps) described in the flow diagram of FIG. 7. The order of the operations (steps) described in the flow diagram of FIG. 7 is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of steps may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the method 700. Additionally, the method 700 may include any operations described above with respect to the method 600 above (and vice versa). For purposes of explanation, unless otherwise specified, the method 700 will be described with reference to the networked exercise system 300, an instructor using a first exercise machine 102, a user 106 using a second exercise machine 102, one or more user interfaces 200, 400, 500, and/or other components shown in FIGS. 1-5. The instructor uses the first exercise machine 102 to conduct an exercise class in a studio or other location that includes one or more video cameras 308, microphones 310, and/or other components of the networked exercise system 300. Any portion and/or the entirety of the method 700 may be performed by a processor of the digital hardware 148. However, for ease of explanation, the method 700 will be described as being performed by one or more processors of the server 302 and/or other components of the networked exercise system 300, unless otherwise specified.

7, in step 702, the server 302 and/or other components of the networked exercise system 300 capture content related to an exercise class being conducted by an instructor. In such an example, the instructor conducts the exercise class using a first exercise machine 102, a studio, a gym, and/or other exercise facility. In such an example, in step 702, one or more video cameras 308, microphones 310, music players 312, audio mixers 314, and/or other components of the networked exercise system 300 are utilized by and/or in conjunction with the server 302 to detect, record, and/or capture content of the exercise class. For example, in step 702, the server 302 captures audio and video content corresponding to the exercise class being conducted by the instructor.

In step 704, the server 302 creates a video file that includes the audio content, video content, and/or any other content captured in step 702. For example, the audio content is captured in step 702 into an audio track, and the video content is captured in step 702 into a video track separate from the audio track. In such an example, the audio track and the video track are merged in step 704 by the analog-to-digital converter 316, the video encoder 320, the video transcoder 324, and/or other components of the server 302 to create a single digital video file. Additionally and/or alternatively, the audio content and the video content may be captured in step 702 using at least one analog device. In such an example, the analog content is converted to digital content in step 704 by the analog-to-digital converter 316 and/or other components of the server 302 to create a digital video file that includes the digital audio content and the digital video content. In yet another example, in step 702, the audio content and the video content may be captured in digital format in a single content capture (e.g., digital recording) process. In such an example, a video file (e.g., a digital video file) is created during and/or as part of the capture of the audio and video content in step 702.

In step 706, the server 302 identifies one or more performance instructions vocalized by the instructor during the performance of the exercise class. For example, natural language processing software and/or other speech recognition software operating on the server 302 identifies verbal instructions (voice instructions) vocalized by the instructor during and/or after the performance of the exercise class. In such an example, in step 706, the natural language processing software and/or other speech recognition software provides the verbal instructions to the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the server 302 operable to generate executable controls. In some examples, in addition and/or instead, the natural language processing software and/or other speech recognition software provides the verbal instructions to one or more operators of the server 302 (e.g., via a display or other output device operably connected to the server 302). The operator then, for example, confirms the accuracy of the identified verbal instructions and/or the placement of the corresponding executable controls in the video file created in step 704. In yet another example, in step 706, the performance instructions are identified and/or recognized by an operator viewing the exercise class (in real-time and/or during a playback of the exercise class) without the use of natural language processing software and/or other voice recognition software.

As discussed above, in some embodiments, the instructor vocalizes relatively specific instructions during the conduct of the exercise class. Examples of such relatively specific instructions include "run at a 6 minute mile pace," "set incline to 5.0," "power in zone 4 for the next 2 minutes," or other relatively clear instructions corresponding to a desired speed of the belt 120, a desired running speed of the user 106, a desired incline of the deck 112, a desired power zone of the user 106, a desired power level of the user 106, a desired braking force or resistance of the exercise machine 102, a pedal cadence of the user 106, and/or any other parameter. In such an example, in step 706, the server 302, an operator of the server 302, and/or other operator of a control station associated with the location (e.g., the exercise studio) where the instructor is conducting the exercise class, identifies the verbal instructions vocalized by the instructor. In some examples, at step 706, natural language processing software and/or other speech recognition software operating on the server 302 provides the verbal instruction to the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the server 302 operable to generate an actionable control. Additionally, at step 706, the server 302 may identify a timestamp (e.g., an elapsed time in the video file generated at step 704) associated with the verbal instruction. Such a timestamp identifies a time during the exercise class when the instructor spoke the verbal instruction.

In another embodiment, the instructor may vocalize relatively abstract or vague instructions during the performance of the exercise class. Examples of such relatively abstract or vague instructions include "jog for a few minutes," "go up this hill," or other instructions that may have different meanings to each user 106 participating in the exercise class, but that correspond to a current exercise segment and/or a current portion of the exercise class that the instructor is performing. In such an example, in step 706, the server 302, an operator of the server 302, and/or an operator of a control station associated with the location where the instructor is performing the exercise class (e.g., the exercise studio), identifies the relatively abstract verbal instructions vocalized by the instructor. In some examples, in step 706, natural language processing software and/or other speech recognition software operating on the server 302 provides the verbal instructions to the video encoder 320 and/or other components of the server 302 that are operable to generate executable controls. Additionally, in step 706, the server 302 may identify a timestamp associated with the relatively abstract instruction.

In step 708, the server 302 generates executable controls 504 that correspond to the exercise class conducted by the instructor and that are operable to modify parameters of the exercise machine 102 (e.g., a second exercise machine 102 used by the user 106 to participate in the exercise class). Specifically, in step 708, the server 302 generates executable controls 504 that correspond to the performance instructions identified in step 706. As described above, the one or more executable controls 504 generated in step 708 include data files, text files, digital files, metadata, instructions, and/or any other electronic files executable by a processor of the digital hardware 148 to modify at least one parameter of the second exercise machine 102. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, one or more of the executable controls 504 generated in step 708 include one or more settings associated with modifying parameters of the second exercise machine 102.

For example, in an embodiment in which the instructions identified in step 706 include relatively specific instructions, server 302 may configure executable control 504 such that, when executable control 504 is processed and/or executed by a processor of digital hardware 148 (e.g., of second exercise machine 102), the processor of digital hardware 148 operates a component of exercise machine 102 (e.g., a motor of deck 112 that controls the speed of belt 120) and/or performs an operation specifically defined by executable control 504. For example, in an embodiment in which an exemplary relatively specific instruction identified in step 706 includes "run at a 6 minute mile pace," in step 708 server 302 generates executable control 504 corresponding to the instructions, including instructions, metadata, and/or other information or components that, when executed by a processor of digital hardware 148, controls the speed of belt 120 by a motor of deck 112 to rotate belt 120 at a belt speed corresponding to a 6 minute mile pace. Similar instructions may be included in the executable controls 504 for specific power zones, specific inclines of the deck 112, specific pedal cadences, specific bike brake resistance, and/or any other parameters of the exercise machine 102.

On the other hand, in embodiments in which the instructions identified in step 706 include relatively vague or abstract instructions, the server 302 may configure the executable control 504 such that when the executable control 504 is processed and/or executed by a processor of the digital hardware 148 (e.g., of the second exercise machine 102), the processor of the digital hardware 148 determines an appropriate (e.g., optimal) response corresponding to the executable control 504, which then causes one or more components of the exercise machine 102 to operate in an altered manner. For example, in an embodiment in which the exemplary relatively abstract instructions identified in step 706 include "jog for a few minutes," in step 708, the server 302 generates the executable control 504 including instructions, metadata, and/or other information that, when executed on the exercise machine 102 (e.g., the second exercise machine 102), causes the belt 120 of that exercise machine 102 to rotate at a quarter-mile pace and/or other relatively general jogging speed. In this case, the settings of the executable control 504 may include default settings. Such default settings are associated with the executable control 504 in step 708 if relatively little user data corresponding to the particular user 106 is available, if the user profile of the user 106 does not include user data related to the user's 106 settings or preferences related to the abstract instruction identified in step 706, and/or in any other case in which the server 302 does not have access to appropriate information corresponding to the user 106. Alternatively, in examples in which the user profile of the user 106 identifies a preferred jogging pace and/or the database 304 stores user data or other information indicative of a particular user's 106's preselected, precustomized, and/or preentered jogging speed, weight, height, age, sex, or other physical characteristics, etc., the server 302 in step 708 generates the executable control 504 configured to rotate the belt 120 at a jogging pace corresponding to such user-specific information.

In any of the examples described herein in which relatively vague or abstract instructions are identified, the server 302 generates executable controls 504 corresponding to such instructions in step 708. The processor of the digital hardware 148 then determines an appropriate response (e.g., an appropriate modification of one or more parameters of the exercise machine 102) based on user data stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 and/or stored in a database 304 associated with the server 302 upon receiving touch input via the executable controls 504 while the exercise class is being presented to the user 106 via the user interface 500. As discussed above, such appropriate responses may include default settings (e.g., a default jogging speed and/or a default deck incline associated with jogging), preselected, precustomized, and/or preentered settings (e.g., a jogging speed and/or a deck incline associated with jogging included in a user profile of the user 106), and/or settings determined by the processor of the digital hardware 148 and/or the processor of the server 302 based at least in part on user data stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 and/or in the database 304 (e.g., aggregated user data corresponding to users 106 who have participated in one or more previous exercise classes using the exercise machine 102).

At step 710, the server 302 embeds, links, or otherwise associates the executable control 504 with the video file created at step 704 such that the executable control 504 is displayed when a processor of the digital hardware 148 (e.g., a processor of the second exercise machine 102) via the display 104 plays at least a portion of the video file. Specifically, at step 710, the server 302 links the executable control 504 to a portion of the video file that corresponds to a timestamp associated with the instruction identified at step 706. In such an example, the timestamp may include the elapsed time of the video file created at step 704 and/or the elapsed time during the exercise class when the instructor vocalized the instruction. As a result, when providing an exercise class to the user 106 via the user interface 500 (e.g., in substantially real-time via live streaming and/or during playback of the exercise class using an archived video file), the processor of the digital hardware 148 (e.g., the processor of the second exercise machine 102) can provide executable controls 504 at the time the instructor speaks verbal instructions during the exercise class.

At step 712, the server 302 provides the executable control 504 along with the video file generated at step 704 to the processor of the digital hardware 148. In such an example, the video packetizer 326 of the server 302 provides one or more signals to the exercise machine 102 (e.g., the second exercise machine 102) over the network 306. Such signals may include at least a portion of the video file and/or the executable control 504 embedded therein. In some examples, such as an example where the user 106 is live streaming an exercise class in substantially real time, the server 302 provides the video file created at step 704 and the executable control 504 created at step 708 over the network 306 as part of the live stream of the exercise class. Alternatively, in an example where the user 106 is participating in an archived exercise class, at step 712, the server 302 provides the video file created at step 704 and the executable control 504 created at step 708 over the network 306 as part of the transmission of the archived exercise class. It should be appreciated that upon receiving the executable control 504, the processor of the digital hardware 148 (e.g., the processor of the second exercise machine 102) causes one or more components of the exercise machine 102 to modify parameters of the exercise machine 102 based at least in part on the executable control 504.

Additionally, in step 714, the server 302 stores or otherwise stores the executable controls 504 generated in step 708 with the video file generated in step 704. In such an example, the executable controls 504 are linked to, embedded in, associated with, or otherwise stored with the video file such that upon playback of the video file, the executable controls 504 are displayed as part of the user interface 500 presented to the user 106 via the display 104. Additionally, although the disclosure above indicates that the server 302 performs one or more operations of the method 700, in any of the examples described herein, any of the above-described operations related to the method 700 may be performed in whole or in part by the server 302, an operator of the server 302, an operator of a control station at which the exercise class is conducted by an instructor, and/or any combination thereof.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating yet another exemplary method 800 of the present disclosure. As with the methods 600 and 700 above, the exemplary method 800 is illustrated as a set of steps in a logical flow diagram, which represent operations that can be performed by hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the case of software, the steps represent computer-executable instructions stored in memory. The computer-executable instructions, when executed by, for example, a processor of the digital hardware 148 and/or one or more processors of the back-end server 302 described above, cause the processors to perform the operations (steps) described in the flow diagram of FIG. 8. The order of the operations (steps) described in the flow diagram of FIG. 8 is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of steps may be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the method 700. Additionally, the method 800 may include any of the operations described above with respect to the methods 600 and 700 above (and vice versa). For purposes of explanation, unless otherwise specified, the method 800 will be described with reference to the local system 100, the exercise machine 102, the user 106, one or more user interfaces 200, 400, 500, and/or other elements shown in FIGS. 1-5. Any portion and/or the entire method 800 may be performed by one or more processors of the server 302 and/or other components of the networked exercise system 300. However, for ease of explanation, the method 800 will be described as being performed by a processor of the digital hardware 148 (e.g., the processor of the exercise machine 102 shown in FIG. 1) unless otherwise specified.

In any of the exemplary embodiments described herein, the local system 100 and/or the networked exercise system 300 may operate to assist the user 106 in achieving one or more athletic goals. An athletic goal may be, for example, the best 5-mile run time performed by a particular user 106, the longest distance run by the user 106 in a particular time (e.g., the longest distance run by the user 106 in 30 minutes), the highest power output or calorie burn of the user 106 in a particular time, the best 5-mile run time performed by another user 106 (e.g., a friend, favorite user, exercise partner, spouse, or coworker of the user 106), etc. In some examples, information related to the athletic goal is stored in the memory and/or database 304 of the digital hardware 148. In such examples, information related to the athletic goal is accessed and used by the processor of the digital hardware 148 and/or by the server 302 to generate and provide one or more executable controls corresponding to the athletic goal of the user 106.

For example, with reference to FIG. 8, in step 802, the processor of the digital hardware 148 provides a control menu via the display 104 of the exercise machine 102. In some examples, such a control menu may include, among other things, one or more windows, sections, and/or other portions of the user interface 400 displayed by the display 104. For example, in some embodiments, such a control menu may include one or more windows 418 displayed within the primary window 410. Such an example window 418 may be substantially similar and/or identical to the window 418 described above with respect to FIG. 4. In such examples, the window 418 may include, among other things, one or more executable controls corresponding to one or more goals of the user 106. For example, the one or more executable controls provided via the window 418 may operate to change parameters of the exercise machine 102 while the user 106 is using the exercise machine 102. In such examples, the window 418 may include one or more look-up menus. Each of the executable controls provided via the window 418 may correspond to, for example, a five-mile run previously performed by the user 106, the longest distance run by the user 106 in a particular time period, a workout corresponding to the user 106's highest power output or calorie burn, the best five-mile time performed by a friend, favorite user, exercise partner, spouse, or coworker of the user 106, a multi-session training and/or exercise program in which the user 106 may participate with one or more additional users 106, and/or other goals that the user 106 wishes to achieve. In such an example, information related to any of the goals described herein and/or machine parameters corresponding to such goals are stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 and/or in the database 304 of the networked exercise system 300. Additionally, executable controls corresponding to such goals are also stored in the memory of the digital hardware 148 and/or in the database 304. It should be understood that the method 800 may include any of the processes and/or other operations described above with respect to generating and/or providing such executable controls.

In step 804, the processor of the digital hardware 148 receives input corresponding to at least one of the executable controls provided via the user interface 400. For example, in step 804, the user 106 provides a touch input via the display 104 indicating a selection of one of the executable controls displayed on the display. In response, one or more components of the user interface 400 and/or the display 104 provide a signal to the processor of the digital hardware 148 indicating the selection of a particular executable control.

In step 806, the processor of the digital hardware 148 provides one or more user interfaces corresponding to the executable control selected in step 804. For example, in step 804, the user 106 selects an executable control displayed in the window 418 that corresponds to a previous 5-mile run performed by the user 106 (e.g., the best time of a previous 5-mile run performed by the user 106 on a particular course). In such an example, in step 806, the processor of the digital hardware 148 provides a user interface 400 corresponding to a particular goal associated with the selected executable control. In the above example, in step 806, the processor of the digital hardware 148 provides a user interface 400 corresponding to the best time of a previous 5-mile run performed by the user 106. Such a user interface 400 may include, for example, one or more visual images that reproduce roads, scenery, and/or other elements associated with the course of the target 5-mile run. Such a user interface 400 may also include a ghosted image of the user 106 performing the target 5-mile run along the course. Such a user interface 400 may further include information indicative of stored user data (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, cardiac output, calories burned, etc.) associated with the target 5-mile run and/or information indicative of current user data of the user 106 as the user 106 participates in the target exercise.

In step 808, the processor of the digital hardware 148 operates the exercise machine 102 in accordance with the executable control selected in step 804. For example, in an embodiment in which the user 106 in step 804 selected an executable control displayed in the window 418 corresponding to a 5-mile run previously performed by the user 106, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may control and/or modify one or more parameters of the exercise machine 102 to keep the user 106 on pace for the target 5-mile run, based at least in part on such input. For example, the processor of the digital hardware 148 may adjust the incline of the deck 112, the speed of the belt 120, the resistance of the belt 120, and/or any other parameter of the exercise machine 102 in accordance with the corresponding settings and/or parameters associated with the target 5-mile run. In this manner, the exercise machine 102 operates in real time according to all portions of the target run such that the user 106 can maintain or beat the target pace and such that the user 106 experiences the conditions and parameters of the exercise machine 102 that correspond to the target run.

Conclusion

The subject matter described above is provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Moreover, the subject matter described in the claims is not limited to implementations that solve any or all of the shortcomings described in any part of this disclosure. Various modifications and changes can be made to the subject matter described herein without following the examples and applications shown and described and without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (18)

receiving, via a network, electronic content including an exercise class, by a processor associated with the exercise machine;
receiving, by the processor, user data associated with a user participating in the exercise class using the exercise machine;
generating, based at least in part on the user data, executable controls specific to the user that are presented on a display of the exercise machine for operation by the user;
embedding said executable controls specific to said user in a video file;
providing, via the display, the executable controls embedded in the video file specific to the user while the user is participating in the exercise class, the executable controls specific to the user being operable by the user to modify parameters of the exercise machine while the user is participating in the exercise class;
A method comprising: 2. The method of claim 1 ,
the exercise machine comprises a first treadmill;
the exercise class includes a running class conducted at least in part by an instructor on a second treadmill different from the first treadmill;
The method, wherein the user data includes at least one of a belt speed associated with a deck of the first treadmill and an inclination of the deck. 2. The method of claim 1 ,
the exercise class includes a first exercise class of a plurality of exercise classes;
the user data includes first user data;
The method comprises:
receiving, by the processor, second user data associated with the user participating in a second exercise class of the plurality of exercise classes that is different from the first exercise class;
determining whether a combination of the first user data and the second user data includes a predetermined minimum amount of user data;
if it is determined that the combination of the first user data and the second user data includes a predetermined minimum amount of user data, generating an executable control specific to the user based at least in part on the determination;
The method further comprising: 4. The method of claim 3,
the first exercise class has a first duration that is a total duration of performance of the first exercise class;
The method comprises:
determining whether the first user data corresponds to a first length of time within the first duration;
determining whether the second user data corresponds to a second length of time that is greater than or equal to the first length of time;
determining whether the first length of time exceeds a predetermined length of time threshold;
if it is determined that the first amount of time exceeds a predetermined amount of time threshold, generating the executable control specific to the user based at least in part on the determination;
The method further comprising: 2. The method of claim 1 ,
the executable controls specific to the user include a first executable control specific to the user having a first setting value corresponding to the parameter of the exercise machine;
The method comprises:
providing a second executable control specific to the user via the display of the exercise machine while the user is participating in the exercise class, the second executable control specific to the user being operable by the user to modify the parameter of the exercise class during performance of the exercise class, the second executable control having a second set value corresponding to the parameter;
determining whether a difference between the first set value and the second set value exceeds a predetermined threshold, and if it is determined that the difference between the first set value and the second set value exceeds the predetermined threshold, providing the first executable control specific to the user based at least in part on the difference;
The method further comprising: 2. The method of claim 1 ,
The exercise classes are characterized by difficulty requirements;
the executable controls specific to the user include predefined settings corresponding to the parameters;
The method comprises:
determining whether the setting of the executable controls specific to the user meets the difficulty requirement, and if it is determined that the setting meets the difficulty requirement, providing the executable controls specific to the user based at least in part on the determination. 2. The method of claim 1 ,
the exercise class includes at least one exercise segment having a specific activity type requirement indicating that the exercise class is associated with a specific type of activity;
the executable controls specific to the user include predefined settings corresponding to the parameters;
The method comprises:
the method further comprising the steps of: determining whether the settings of the executable controls specific to the user meet the requirements of the particular type of activity of the at least one exercise segment; and, if it is determined that the settings meet the requirements of the particular type of activity of the at least one exercise segment, providing the executable controls specific to the user while the user is participating in the at least one exercise segment based at least in part on the determination. 2. The method of claim 1 ,
The executable controls specific to the user include:
receiving touch input from the user via the display;
configured to modify the parameters of the exercise machine based at least in part on the touch input while the user is participating in the exercise class;
The method, wherein the parameters of the exercise machine include at least one of a belt speed associated with a deck of the exercise machine and an inclination of the deck. 2. The method of claim 1 ,
the executable controls specific to the user include predefined settings corresponding to the parameters;
The method comprises:
receiving a touch input via the display indicating a request to change the setting of the executable control specific to the user;
modifying the settings of the executable controls specific to the user during the exercise class based at least in part on the touch input;
The method further comprising: 2. The method of claim 1 ,
further comprising associating, in a memory associated with the processor, the executable controls specific to the user with a user profile specific to the user;
The method, wherein the user profile is configured such that when the user profile is accessed on another exercise machine, the executable controls specific to the user are provided via the display of the other exercise machine when the user is participating in another exercise class. An exercise machine,
a processor operatively connected to the network;
a display operatively connected to the processor and configured to display electronic content received by the processor over the network, the electronic content including the exercise classes;
a deck configured to be able to change an inclination with respect to a support surface that supports the exercise machine;
a belt rotatable around the deck;
a first motor operatively connected to the processor and configured to drive the belt;
a second motor operatively connected to the processor and configured to vary the inclination of the deck relative to the support surface;
The processor,
displaying the electronic content, including the exercise class, on the display;
receiving user data associated with users participating in the exercise class using the exercise machine;
generating, based at least in part on the user data, executable controls specific to the user that are presented on the display of the exercise machine and operable by the user to modify parameters of the exercise machine;
configured to cause the display to display the electronic content and to provide the executable controls specific to the user via the display;
The exercise class is characterized by a difficulty requirement;
the executable controls specific to the user include predefined settings corresponding to the parameters;
The processor,
determining whether the settings of the executable controls meet the difficulty requirements;
if it is determined that the settings do not satisfy the difficulty requirement, modifying the settings of the executable controls specific to the user based at least in part on the determination.
Further configured as an exercise machine. 12. The exercise machine of claim 11,
The processor,
receiving an input via the display indicating a selection of an exercise class by an instructor, the exercise class including a running class, at least a portion of which is performed on a treadmill;
providing a request, including a request for the exercise class, to another processor over the network based at least in part on the input;
Further configured as an exercise machine. 12. The exercise machine of claim 11,
Further comprising a sensor,
the sensor is configured to detect at least one of a speed of the belt and an inclination of the deck relative to the support surface;
The user data includes at least one of a speed of the belt and an inclination of the deck. 12. The exercise machine of claim 11,
the executable controls specific to the user include a first executable control specific to the user having a first setting value corresponding to the parameter;
The processor,
providing a second executable control specific to the user via the display operable by the user while the user is participating in the exercise class to modify the parameter of the exercise class during the performance of the exercise class, the second executable control having a second setting value corresponding to the parameter;
determining whether a difference between the first set value and the second set value is less than a predetermined threshold value;
modifying the first setting of the first executable control specific to the user based at least in part on the difference;
Further configured as an exercise machine. 12. The exercise machine of claim 11,
the exercise class includes a first exercise class of a plurality of exercise classes;
the user data includes first user data;
the executable controls specific to the user include predefined settings corresponding to the parameters;
The processor,
receiving second user data associated with the user using the exercise machine to participate in a second exercise class of the plurality of exercise classes that is different from the first exercise class;
generating the executable control specific to the user based at least in part on the first user data and the second user data;
associating, in a memory associated with said processor, said executable controls specific to said user with a user profile specific to said user;
Further configured as an exercise machine. capturing audio and video content corresponding to an exercise class conducted by an instructor, the exercise class being conducted at least in part on a first exercise machine;
creating a video file including the audio content and the video content;
identifying verbal instructions from an instructor included in the audio content ;
generating user-specific executable controls based at least in part on user data associated with a user participating in the exercise class using a second exercise machine different from the first exercise machine and on verbal instructions of the instructor , the user-specific executable controls being presented on a display of the second exercise machine for operation by the user participating in the exercise class and operable to modify parameters of the second exercise machine corresponding to the verbal instructions of the instructor ;
associating the executable controls specific to the user with the video file such that, when a processor of the second exercise machine causes a display of the second exercise machine to play at least a portion of the video file, the executable controls specific to the user are displayed on the display;
providing the executable control along with the video file over a network to the processor of the second exercise machine;
The method includes: 17. The method of claim 16,
further comprising identifying a timestamp associated with the verbal instruction;
The method, wherein associating the executable control specific to the user with the video file comprises linking the executable control specific to the user to a portion of the video file that corresponds to the timestamp. 17. The method of claim 16,
identifying the verbal instructions through natural language processing;
and using an additional processor separate from the processor of the second exercise machine.

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