U.S. patent application number 12/714862 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-01 for apparatus and method for swing training.
Invention is credited to William M. Adkins.
Application Number | 20110212797 12/714862 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44505574 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110212797 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Adkins; William M. |
September 1, 2011 |
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SWING TRAINING
Abstract
An apparatus and method for training an individual to employ
proper swing technique in baseball, softball, and other similar
sports involving a swinging instrument, a ball, and contact between
the swinging instrument and ball.
Inventors: |
Adkins; William M.; (South
Riding, VA) |
Family ID: |
44505574 |
Appl. No.: |
12/714862 |
Filed: |
March 1, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/451 ;
473/422 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/0002 20130101;
A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 21/4009 20151001; A63B 21/0442
20130101; A63B 2069/0008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/451 ;
473/422 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for training comprising: a vertical section coupled
to a horizontal platform; a raised step bordering the platform; an
angled stop surface travelling across the width of the platform; a
tether coupled at one end to the vertical section and at the other
end to a harness; and an adjustable strap coupled to the vertical
section at one end and adapted to be attached to a swinging
instrument.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vertical section may be
adjusted to accommodate a left-handed or right-handed user.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tether may be adjusted to
be substantially parallel to the platform.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the tether is adjustable from
a height of about 2.0 feet to about 6.0 feet.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the raised step is at least
0.1 inch above the platform.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the raised step is from about
0.05 inch to about 2.00 inches above the platform.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the adjustable strap comprises
an elastic material.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the adjustable strap forms an
angle with the pole between about 30.degree. to about
45.degree..
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the platform is at least about
0.1 inches above the ground.
10. A method for training a swing comprising the steps of:
attaching a vertical section to a platform to form a right angle
with the platform; attaching a tether to the vertical section;
attaching the tether to the user; and attaching one end of an
adjustable strap to the vertical section and the other end of the
adjustable strap to a swinging instrument.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising the steps of:
positioning the heels of the user's feet on a raised step; and
positioning the back foot of the user against a stop surface.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein the adjustable strap comprises
an elastic material.
13. The method of claim 10, wherein the tether is coupled to a
harness worn by the user.
14. The method of claim 10, further comprising the step of
adjusting the height of the tether to a position on the vertical
section wherein the tether is substantially parallel to the
platform.
15. The method of claim 10, wherein the adjustable strap forms an
angle of between about 30.degree. and 45.degree. with the vertical
section.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the swinging instrument is
initially held by the user substantially parallel to the adjustable
strap.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for training
an individual to employ proper swing technique. In particular, the
method and apparatus are beneficial for training an individual to
use proper form for baseball and softball swings.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Baseball and softball players train for hours to achieve a
proper swing. From an early age, players are taught certain
fundamentals of the swing that, if followed, result in more power
and an increased likelihood of making contact with the ball.
However, players often develop bad habits that detract from the
ideal swing. These bad habits result in a loss of power and an
inconsistent swing that decreases the likelihood of making good
contact with the ball.
[0003] Some common bad habits that players develop include: lunging
or leaning forward (to the left for a right handed person), casting
(extending arms too soon), bailing out (stepping back with the
front foot), and dropping the hands or back shoulder too soon. All
of these habits result in a loss of power and a decreased
likelihood of making contact with the ball.
[0004] Many "swing aids" and training methods have been developed
over the years to reinforce the fundamentals of a proper swing.
However, these swing aids often require the use of complex
contraptions that a player can not utilize without the assistance
of another individual. Other devices require structural assistance
such as a fence, doorway, or other structure in order to use the
device, thereby limiting the area that can be used for training. In
addition, many of these swing aids require the player to use
specific equipment. As such, the player is prohibited from
incorporating their own equipment into the training session.
Further, most swing aids are only designed to fix one swing error.
Therefore, a player may be forced to purchase several devices to
fix a plurality of problems, and the multiple swing aids may not be
compatible for combined use.
[0005] Finally, other devices are limited in the amount of feedback
given to the user if improper mechanics or fundamentals are
implemented by the user. And, many of the devices do not provide
the user with instant feedback.
[0006] Therefore, a need remains for a single, portable apparatus
that can eliminate multiple improper swing tendencies of a player
while allowing the player to train with their own equipment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention is directed to an apparatus for
training comprising: a vertical section coupled to a horizontal
platform; a raised step bordering the platform; an angled stop
surface travelling across the width of the platform; a tether
coupled at one end to the vertical section and at the other end to
a harness; an adjustable strap coupled to the vertical section at
one end and adapted to be attached to a swinging instrument.
[0008] In one embodiment, the vertical section is adjustable to
accommodate a left-handed or right-handed user. In another
embodiment, the tether is adjustable to be substantially parallel
to the platform and/or adjustable from a height of about 2.0 feet
to about 6.0 feet.
[0009] In this aspect of the invention, the raised step may be at
least 0.1 inch above the platform. For example, the raised step may
be from about 0.05 inch to about 2.00 inches above the platform.
The platform itself may be at least about 0.1 inches above the
ground.
[0010] The adjustable strap may be formed from an elastic material.
In addition the adjustable strap may form an angle with the pole
between about 30.degree. to about 45.degree..
[0011] The present invention also relates to a method for training
a swing comprising the steps of: attaching a vertical section to a
platform to form a right angle with the platform; attaching a
tether to the vertical section; attaching the tether to the user;
and attaching one end of an adjustable strap to the vertical
section and the other end of the adjustable strap to a swinging
instrument.
[0012] In one embodiment, the method further includes the steps of:
positioning the heels of the user's feet on a raised step; and
positioning the back foot of the user against a stop surface. The
adjustable strap may be formed from a variety of materials
including elastic materials. The tether may be coupled to a harness
worn by the user.
[0013] In another embodiment, the method may further include a step
of adjusting the height of the tether to a position on the vertical
section wherein the tether is substantially parallel to the
platform. The adjustable strap may form an angle of between about
30.degree. and 45.degree. with the vertical section. The swinging
is initially held by the user so that it is substantially parallel
to the adjustable strap.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Further features and advantages of the invention can be
ascertained from the following detailed description that is
provided in connection with the drawing(s) described below:
[0015] FIG. 1 is an elevated side view of the platform according to
the invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is an elevated side view of the platform and stop
according to the invention;
[0017] FIG. 3 is an elevated side view of the platform and vertical
section according to the invention;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a side view of the vertical section, tether, and
harness according to the invention;
[0019] FIGS. 4a and 4b are exploded side views of the vertical
section and adjustable tether according to the invention shown in
FIG. 4;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a side view of the vertical section and adjustable
strap according to the invention; and
[0021] FIGS. 5a and 5b are exploded side views of the adjustable
strap and the coupling of the adjustable strap to the vertical
section according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The present invention relates to a training device for
baseball, softball, or other sports that require a player to swing
an instrument at a ball or other object. In particular, the device
is designed to reinforce the fundamental principles of a swing.
[0023] As discussed above, failure to follow the basic swing
fundamentals leads to a reduction in power for the swing as well as
a decreased likelihood that contact will be made with the ball.
There are many swing flaws that can occur when the proper
fundamentals are not reinforced through practice and repetition.
For example, "lunging" occurs when a player transfers his weight
from the rear foot toward the front foot. This action results in a
significant loss of power. Further, "bailing out" occurs when a
player steps away from the ball with the leading foot. This
practice not only decreases the power of the swing, but also
significantly reduces the chance of making contact with the ball.
"Casting" refers to the habit of extending the arms prior to making
contact with the ball, which reduces the power of the swing.
Finally, dropping the hands or dipping the shoulder early in the
swing also affects the power and likelihood of making contact with
the ball.
[0024] Without being bound to any particular theory, the swing
training aid discussed herein trains a player to retain the
fundamentals of the swing and prevents the player from adopting the
swing flaws discussed above. The swing training aid includes a
platform, a vertical section, a tether, and means to restrict a
swinging instrument.
[0025] The platform 10 is wide enough to accommodate a player's
foot. Preferably the platform is at least about 18 inches wide. In
one embodiment, the platform is raised above the ground enough to
allow the player to feel a noticeable difference when stepping off
the platform. For example, when the swing training aid of the
present invention is in use, the player is provided with instant
feedback when the player steps off the platform due to stepping
into the ball. Thus, the player can self-diagnose whether the
player has acquired the tendency of "bailing out" as described
above.
[0026] In this aspect of the invention, platform 10 is at least
about 0.1 inches above the ground. In another embodiment, the
platform is between about 0.2 inches and 2.0 inches above the
ground. In yet another embodiment, the platform is at least about
0.5 inches, preferably at least about 0.75 inches. In still another
embodiment, the platform is about 1.5 inches or less.
[0027] The platform surface may be any material suitable for swing
training. In one embodiment, the platform surface is selected from
non-slip materials including, but not limited to, synthetic field
grass and artificial turf, rubbers, epoxy slip-proof coatings,
paints with anti-slip additives, and combinations thereof.
[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, platform 10 may also be equipped with
raised step 20. In use, the player places the heels of the feet
onto raised step 20, which encourages the player to place weight on
the balls of the feet. The raised step may take the form of a
vertical step or an inclined surface. In one embodiment, raised
step 20 is at least 0.25 inches above the platform. In another
embodiment, the raised step is between about 0.05 inches and 2.0
inches above the platform. For example, the raised step may be
about 0.5 inches or more above the platform. In this aspect, the
raised step may be at least about 0.75 inches above the
platform.
[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, back foot stop 15 runs across the width
of the platform. Preferably, a portion of stop 15 is angled
downward toward the surface of platform 10. Without being bound by
any particular theory, the stop 15 functions as a support/guide to
train the player to raise the heel and turn the back foot toward
the front of the platform during the swing. Accordingly, in use, a
player places the back foot against stop 15. When performing a
swing, the angled surface of stop 15 forces a player to raise the
back heel and turn the back foot toward the front of the
platform.
[0030] In one embodiment, stop 15 forms an angle of at least about
15.degree. with platform 10. In another embodiment, stop 15 forms
an angle of between about 5.degree. and about 45.degree. with
platform 10. The height of stop 15 may be at least about 0.1 inches
above the surface of platform 10. In one embodiment, stop 15 has a
height between about 0.25 inches and about 2.0 inches above the
surface of platform 10.
[0031] The stop 15 may be mounted to the platform in a number of
ways. In one embodiment, the stop 15 may be affixed directly to the
platform 10 in a location that accommodates a wide range of stances
and strides. In addition, the stop 15 is preferably located at a
predetermined distance away from the vertical section 50, discussed
in greater detail below, to prevent interference with a swinging
instrument when used the apparatus is used correctly. In another
embodiment, the stop 15 is adjustably mounted so that the user can
modify the position of the stop 15 from the front of the platform
10. Those of ordinary skill in the art would be aware of suitable
methods to achieve an adjustably mounted stop 15. For example, the
stop 15 may rest upon a track that runs generally parallel to the
raised step of the platform and generally perpendicular to the
front edge of the platform 15.
[0032] Moreover, the stop 15 may be adjustably mounted such that
the location of the stop in relation to the raised step may be
modified to accommodate the user. In this regard, the stop 15 may
be mounted to a track that runs perpendicular to the raised step.
In yet another embodiment, the stop 15 is mounted to a track that
allows adjustment of the location of the stop 15 in directions
parallel to and perpendicular to the raised step.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, platform 10 is configured to allow for
vertical section 50 to be attached to the surface. In one
embodiment, the vertical section is a cylindrical pole. Those of
ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the vertical
section may take a variety of shapes within the scope and spirit of
the present invention.
[0034] Preferably, the vertical section 50 is adjustable to
accommodate both right-handed and left-handed swingers. In one
embodiment, vertical section 50 is removable and capable of being
placed in various locations on platform 50. In another embodiment,
vertical section 50 is coupled to a track and is adjustable along
the axis of the track. Vertical section 50 may also be collapsible
to allow for portability of the training system. Further, vertical
section 50 may comprise a series of telescoping sections to further
allow for portability. Vertical section 50 may be formed of a
variety of materials, including metallic materials, polymers such
as polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyethylene, and
polycarbonate, and combinations thereof.
[0035] To prevent the player from "lunging" at the ball, as shown
in FIG. 4, tether 90 is configured to be attached to vertical
section 50 at one end, and attached to a player at the other end.
In one embodiment, tether 90 is attached to the player via a
harness 100. In one embodiment, harness 100 is a strap that is
adjustable to be fit around a player's torso. For example, as shown
generally in FIG. 4b, the harness 100 may be a strap that is
adjustable to fit around a player's chest. In another embodiment,
tether 90 is fit around a player's waist. For example, harness 100
may be a belt that fits around a player's waist. The harness 100
may be made from a variety of materials including, but not limited
to, synthetic polymers such as linear polyamides, acrylics,
polyesters, rayons, other thermoplastic materials, and combinations
thereof.
[0036] In yet another embodiment, the tether 90 is attached to the
player via a vest (not shown). The vest may cover the majority of
the torso or portions thereof. Suitable vest materials may be
neoprene rubber, latex, and other similar materials.
[0037] In use, tether 90 allows for a batter to take a step toward
a ball, but keep the player's weight on the back foot. Preferably,
tether 90 is adjustable so that the player may move less than about
6 inches away from a starting position in a direction away from the
pole or toward an incoming pitch.
[0038] Preferably, vertical section 50 accommodates many locations
for tether 90 to be secured. In one embodiment, vertical section 50
has locations to attach tether 90 at 1 inch intervals between the
heights of about 3 feet and about 6 feet. Preferably, tether 90 is
substantially parallel to platform 10. In one embodiment (shown
generally in FIG. 4a), the vertical section has adjustment holes
150 positioned incrementally along the height of the vertical
section to accommodate the tether attachment. Preferably, tether 90
may be coupled to vertical section 50 at any location.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 5, an adjustable strap 200 is coupled to
vertical section 50. The strap is comprised of an elastic material,
such as latex or a non-latex rubber material. Strap 200 is
configured at one end to be coupled to vertical section 50 (FIG.
5b). At the other end, strap 200 is configured to be attached to
the swinging instrument. In fact, one advantage of the present
invention is the ability to incorporate a player's swinging
instrument into the invention. In contrast, many known swing aids
require the use of specified equipment, namely swinging
instruments. Therefore, the player is deprived of the ability to
train with the same equipment that will be used in a game
situation. As appreciated by players and coaches, the closer a
practice session can mimic game situations, the better the
practice. Therefore, it is crucial for a player to be able to train
with the same equipment that will be used in a game. As such,
adjustable strap 200 is configured to receive any swinging
instrument. Preferably, the adjustable strap is configured with a
hook and loop fastener at one end, as shown in FIG. 5a, although
any means of attaching a swinging instrument may be employed.
[0040] In one embodiment, a plurality of adjustable straps may be
used with the present invention. For example, an advanced or
stronger player may use a strap with more resistance to improve the
power of the swing. In the alternative, a strap with a lower
resistance may be used depending upon the relative strength and
desire of the user. According to one aspect of the present
invention, strap 200 may have a resistance of from about 5 pounds
to about 100 pounds. In one embodiment, strap 200 has a resistance
of at least 8 pounds.
[0041] In this aspect of the invention, the swing training
apparatus of the present invention may include a kit of straps that
allow the user to select the specific resistance to better aid
training. For example, in one embodiment, the kit includes a number
of bands, e.g., yellow, green, red, blue, black, and purple, which
each represent a different tension level from extremely light to
ultra heavy. In other words, the percent deformation (change in
length) may range from about 25 percent to about 250 percent among
the straps in the kit.
[0042] In one embodiment, strap 200 is adjustable to form an angle
of about 30.degree. to about 60.degree. with the vertical section.
In another embodiment, strap 200 is adjustable to form an angle
with the vertical section of about 35.degree. to about 45.degree..
Preferably, strap 200 is adjustable along the height of the
vertical section in the same manner that the tether is adjustable.
In one embodiment, the strap is adjustable in one inch increments.
In another embodiment, strap 200 is adjustable in any location
along the height of the vertical section.
[0043] Once attached to the strap 200, the swinging instrument is
positioned substantially parallel to strap 200. In this regard, the
strap 200 is not used with a full swing (e.g., with follow through
after contact). Rather, the swing taken when the swinging
instrument is attached to the strap 200 is referred to as a
practice swing or a swing to the point of contact. When a proper
practice swing is achieved, the strap is located below the swinging
instrument. However, if the player attempts to "cast" the swinging
instrument during a practice swing, the swinging instrument travels
under strap 200 and at least partially wraps around the swinging
instrument. Likewise, if the player drops the shoulder or hands in
a practice swing, the swinging instrument will travel under the
strap and result in the strap wrapping around the swinging
instrument. Thus, without being bound to any particular theory, the
strap 200 is instrumental in training a user to swing in the proper
direction and on the correct plane.
[0044] The present invention is also directed toward a method of
using a training apparatus. For the sake of brevity, the method of
use will be described for a right-handed player, although a skilled
artisan would recognize that the method is applicable to a left
handed player as well. The player assembles the vertical section
50, to form a right angle with platform 10. Next, the player steps
onto platform 10. The player's front foot (the left foot for a
right-handed player) is placed with the heel on raised step 20. The
player's rear foot (right foot) is positioned at the junction of
stop 15 and raised step 20 so that the player's heel is on raised
step 20, and the outside of the player's foot (right side) abuts
the stop surface. The player attaches one end of tether 90 to
vertical section 50 at a point that allows for tether 90 to be
substantially parallel to platform 10. Preferably, tether 90 is
attached to chest strap 100, which fits around a player's chest.
Next, the player attaches on end of adjustable strap 200 to the
vertical section, and the opposite end to the swinging instrument.
Preferably, adjustable strap 200 forms an angle of about 30.degree.
to about 45.degree. with vertical section 50.
[0045] The player may then begin a practice session with the swing
aid wherein the player swings at a ball, which may be stationary
(on a tee) or moving. If the player engages in any of the
detrimental swing flaws described above, the player is given
immediate feedback. For example, due to the positioning of the
heels of the feet on the raised step 20, any attempt to step back
out of the swing or "bail out" by moving the front foot in a
direction away from the pitch (to the left of an oncoming pitch for
a right-handed player) results in the front foot stepping off the
platform. The player can immediately notice that the front foot is
no longer on the platform and take corrective measures.
[0046] In addition, tether 90 prevents the player from "lunging" at
the ball. As described above, tether 90 prevents the player from
overstepping toward the ball, thereby transferring weight from the
back foot to the front foot. Thus, any attempt to lunge forward at
the ball results in increased tension and pressure on chest strap
100. The player is able to feel the increase in pressure from chest
strap 90, and is thereby afforded instant feedback.
[0047] The player is provided with instant feedback from the
adjustable strap if the player drops the shoulder or hands while
swinging the swinging instrument. If the player attempts to drop
the shoulder or hands, strap 200 will travel over the swinging
instrument, resulting in strap 200 wrapping around the swinging
instrument. When strap is wrapped around the swinging instrument,
the player is alerted that the swing is improper, and the player
may take action to remedy the swing flaw.
[0048] Finally, any attempt to "cast" the swinging instrument by
extending the elbows early in the swing and behind the players body
results in the bat either hitting vertical section 50 or strap 200.
As such, the proper swing mechanics are reinforced by forcing the
batter to begin the swing with the bottom of the swinging
instrument pointed in the direction of the oncoming pitch.
[0049] The present invention may be used in a variety of training
methods. For example, live or machine-automated pitching may be
employed when using the present invention. In addition, a tee may
also be used when using the present invention.
[0050] A player may disable one or more components of the invention
if it is desired to focus training on a specific flaw. For example,
if a player is primarily concerned about "bailing out" the player
may disable the vertical section and train without strap 200 or
tether 90. Likewise, if the elimination of "lunging" is the sole
concern, the player may choose to not connect strap 200. In
addition, the strap 200, when not attached to the swinging
instrument, may be used for strength training. However, to achieve
the total effect of the swing aid, all of the components are used
simultaneously.
[0051] Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters
setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations,
the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are
reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however,
inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the
standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
Furthermore, when numerical ranges of varying scope are set forth
herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these values
inclusive of the recited values may be used.
[0052] The invention described and claimed herein is not to be
limited in scope by the specific embodiments herein disclosed,
since these embodiments are intended as illustrations of several
aspects of the invention. Any equivalent embodiments are intended
to be within the scope of this invention. For example, the
apparatus of the invention may also be used for training in other
sports including softball, golf, tennis, and other sports requiring
swinging an instrument. Indeed, various modifications of the
invention in addition to those shown and described herein will
become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing
description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within
the scope of the appended claims. All patents and patent
applications cited in the foregoing text are expressly incorporated
herein by reference in their entirety.
* * * * *