David Eastman ⋅ Gresham, OR Gamma Therapeutics, Inc. ⋅ 35 years experience

Zak,

Congratulations on your new invention. Inventions for working out are pretty common and so it is a highly competitive field, which means entry to this business is challenging. That said, it is also an industry that loves the latest new gadget that can help some one tone up, get healthy and build muscle. Plus, since it is fitness equipment it may have great carry over to the physical rehabilitation field and be used as a therapy tool.

I would do an extensive search of like equipment and ensure that yours is unique enough to patent. It is not necessary to patent everything that is invented if you are a first to market, one of a kind product, or you have signed with a fitness equipment mfg who can help you bring your idea to market.

I would definitely talk with fitness experts at spas and see what they think of the idea and that will give you a good clear idea as to its value.

You can seek money for this concept from Crowdfunding or FundMe websites.

Good luck. Being a fitness fanatic myself I wish you much success with your invention and potential business.

David
Former, US Navy Avionics

Prem Shanker ⋅ Bentonville, AR Walmart Stores, Inc. ⋅ 18 years experience

Thousands of inventions gather dust because they don't sell well. So please start "test marketing" right away while you are working on the patent process. Try selling it to your neighbors, relatives, friends, members at church/ religious place you visit, your local fitness stores etc. Keep the price low for now, but please don't give them away for free. 1) Test your product acceptance, and 2) your own ability to sell.

1) It is possible the initial test marketing may give you great insights about why people like it OR don't like it. Make modifications based on that.

2) It is possible you may realize direct selling is your strength or weakness. If it's the latter, then you need to consider alternate approaches. One of them may be to find sales partners on commission.

Best wishes!

Liz Campanelli ⋅ East Brunswick, NJ Johnson & Johnson ⋅ 25 years experience

Hi Zak,
Many thanks for your service and congrats on your invention! You would probably want to reach out to this group to see how you could go about getting a patent for your device. Google how to apply for patents. Knowledge is power. They can be costly but someone may be able to help where it is not so costly. Once your patent is pending, you should start the ball rolling on your business plan and how you can get that device manufactured and distributed. Then build your plan for sales planning. You want the patent so someone doesn't steal the idea from you and make a fortune... These are the preliminary steps.. I wish you luck and success!

Regards,

Liz Campanelli