Patent attributes
An exercise device having therapeutic properties is provided. The device includes a first element and a second element relatively movable with respect to the first element. A resistance-generating mechanism links the first and second elements to impede the relative motion of the first and second elements so that the user must exercise or expend energy to overcome the resistance of the first and second elements. A first magnet is disposed in at least one of the first or second elements in a location where a user's body part contacts the first or second element during use. The magnetic field of the first magnet is directed into the user's body part for therapeutic effect, preferably from the north pole of the magnet. A second magnet or set of magnets may be employed for therapeutic effect and/or to increase the resistance of the device by using magnetic interaction (either attraction or repulsion) to further impede the relative motion of the first and second elements.