Information and steps to patent or copywrite a teaching method using a simple item/tool, please.
I’ve developed a method and technique using a simple and versatile item/tool in aqua fitness classes that can also be used with land based classes. It adds resistance, muscle strength and endurance, core work, coordination, more range of motion, flexibility, and fun to classes.
I want to share my technique, skills, ideas and safe use pointers with others while having ownership, so to speak, to the method and ideas for it.
Thank you for any help you can offer. Charlie
Are you trying to bring a new product to market, or is the product already in the market and you’re developing a new way of using it? That will make a difference whether you’re patenting a product or trademarking a process.
Intellectual property protection can be tricky, and you don’t want to do it wrong. You will probably want to invest in an initial consultation with a patent attorney or a trademark attorney.
Thank you, Nancy. Good questions to consider. The product is already available, but it is not a fitness product. It is a more common everyday product. I’m considering specifying the measurements and such, with possibly a logo printed on it, but not a necessity. It would just make it easy to get ahold of the type I like best.
There are does and don’t that I would like to recommend and share with those interested in order to provide the best all around workout and prevent possible stress. I’d love to give workshops.
So, I’m not sure if I would want to trademark it or patent it.
Thank you for any more ideas and help you could offer about this.
Cheryl
Especially since the item you’re using is already on the market, don’t tell anyone what it is unless you have a non-compete agreement from them.
One company I used to work for brought a product to market, and the initial investment was over $100,000, but that was more of an apparatus not already available in the market, that had to be engineered, tested, and manufactured. Since your object is more readily available, I’m guessing it would be much cheaper. For example, small soft balls were already in the market when Leslee Bender introduced the Bender Ball. She just bought pretty green ones, put her logo on them, and developed great programming around it. Maybe you’re more likely to be successful in something like that. Get a custom color and perhaps a logo on your item, then really put your effort on programming, videos, CECs.
Did you see this thread on similar topic?
http://www.ideafit.com/answers/i-think-i-have-a-class-format-worth-paten…