U.S. patent application number 13/599232 was filed with the patent office on 2014-03-06 for boxing simulating exerciser.
The applicant listed for this patent is Saadin B. SOLAH. Invention is credited to Saadin B. SOLAH.
Application Number | 20140066267 13/599232 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50188331 |
Filed Date | 2014-03-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140066267 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SOLAH; Saadin B. |
March 6, 2014 |
BOXING SIMULATING EXERCISER
Abstract
An exercise apparatus includes a frame having a lower support
member, an upper support member and a pair of horizontal support
members. The lower support member is secured to a base and includes
an extension mechanism for raising and lowering the frame. The
frame further including a support member and a pair of angled
support members operably secured to the frame for supporting a
plurality of target pads, each of the target pads positioned to
assist a user in executing punches.
Inventors: |
SOLAH; Saadin B.; (Cumbaya,
EC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SOLAH; Saadin B. |
Cumbaya |
|
EC |
|
|
Family ID: |
50188331 |
Appl. No.: |
13/599232 |
Filed: |
August 30, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/83 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/74 20200801;
A63B 69/0053 20130101; A63B 2071/0625 20130101; A63B 69/34
20130101; A63B 24/0062 20130101; A63B 2225/09 20130101; A63B
2220/17 20130101; A63B 2220/801 20130101; A63B 24/0075 20130101;
A63B 2220/62 20130101; A63B 2230/75 20130101; A63B 71/0669
20130101; A63B 21/1627 20130101; A63B 2225/093 20130101; A63B
71/0622 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/83 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/34 20060101
A63B069/34 |
Claims
1. An exercise apparatus comprising: a frame; a plurality of target
pads affixed to said frame; a frame for supporting each of the
target pads; a plurality of brackets attached to the frame for
removably securing the exercise apparatus into a doorframe; a base
being adjustable to selectively raise said frame to selectively
secure said exercise apparatus into a said doorframe, and to
selectively lower said frame to selectively release said exercise
apparatus from said doorframe.
2. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the plurality
of target pads includes a center pad positioned to receive a
properly thrown jab.
3. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the plurality
of target pads includes at least one pad positioned to receive a
properly thrown hook punch.
4. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the plurality
of target pads includes at least one pad positioned to receive a
properly thrown uppercut punch.
5. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the plurality
of target pads includes a center pad positioned to receive a
properly thrown jab punch, at least one pad positioned to receive a
properly thrown hook punch and at least one pad positioned to
receive a properly thrown uppercut punch.
6. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the exercise
apparatus further includes a control panel.
7. An exercise apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the control
panel is electrically connected to a plurality of lights, each
light associated with a said target pad.
8. An exercise apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the control
panel is electrically connected to a plurality of force sensors,
where a force sensor is positioned within each of the target
pads.
9. An exercise apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the
microprocessor further includes an interactive training system.
10. An exercise apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the
microprocessor further communicates with a display.
11. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the target
pads are adjustable.
12. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the base
includes a mechanism to assist in raising the frame.
13. An exercise apparatus comprising: a frame including a lower
support member and a pair of horizontal support members; said lower
support member secured to a base for positioning the exercise
apparatus against the ground, at least one of the base and the
lower support member being selectively adjustable for raising and
lowering the frame; said horizontal support members being
selectively extendable and having a bracket for cooperating with
and securing the frame within a doorframe; a support member and a
pair of angled support members operably secured to the frame for
supporting a plurality of target pads, said target pads positioned
to assist a user in executing punches.
14. An exercise apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the
exercise apparatus further includes a control panel.
15. An exercise apparatus according to claim 14 wherein the control
panel is electrically connected to a plurality of lights, each
light associated with a said target pad.
16. An exercise apparatus according to claim 14 wherein the control
panel is electrically connected to a plurality of force sensors,
each force sensor positioned within each of the said target
pads.
17. An exercise apparatus according to claim 14 wherein the control
panel further includes an interactive training system.
18. An exercise apparatus according to claim 14 wherein the control
panel further includes a display screen.
19. An exercise apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the target
pads are adjustable.
20. An exercise apparatus comprising: a frame; a plurality of
target pads connected to the frame including a center pad, a left
angle pad, a right angle pad, a left wing pad and a right wing pad,
wherein: the center paid is mounted approximately parallel to an
x-y plane and perpendicular to a z axis; the left angle pad is
mounted at approximately 38.degree. below the x-axis in the x-z
plane; the right angle pad is mounted to mirror the left angle pad;
the left wing pad is mounted at approximately 32.degree. below the
x axis in the x-y plane and 63.degree. below the z axis in the z-y
plane; and the right wing pad is mounted to mirror the left wing
pad; a plurality of brackets attached to the frame for removably
securing the exercise apparatus into a doorframe; and a selectively
adjustable base for selectively raising said frame.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to a training device
and, more particularly, to an exercise apparatus which allows a
user to simulate the basic punches used in boxing.
[0002] For many individuals, boxing is an exercise activity which
provides an intense muscular and cardiovascular workout; it is
often practiced as a contact sport, for self-defense and/or for
general fitness. Boxing is a particularly attractive sport because
it allows individuals to develop strength, agility and endurance at
their own pace. Specifically, a boxer uses their fists to
strategically throw punches at an opponent. Three of the generally
recognized punches in boxing are the cross, jab and uppercut, with
variations deriving therefrom. Employing these punches often
requires the boxer to engage his or her body, planting the legs and
bending the knees to provide a stable foundation; keeping a
straight back and being aware of the core muscles as the twisting
motion generates power, making the punches more effective. Then,
when throwing a punch, the boxer extends one arm in the desired
position and rotates the upper body to effectuate force. Employing
a variety of punches, switching between one arm and the other, as
desired, creates an intense workout which requires the use of
entire muscular system.
[0003] However, proper technique when throwing the various types of
punches is extremely important. As with many physical activities,
improper form can increase the chances for physical injury, and can
lead to reduced speed, power and accuracy of the punches being
thrown. Therefore, people who box--even those who merely use boxing
for exercise rather than for competition and actual fighting--need
to consistently practice proper mechanics.
[0004] Individuals who participate in boxing typically belong to a
gym where they may spar with an opponent or practice with an
experienced trainer. Experienced trainers are well versed in the
proper form for throwing the various punches, and often use focus
mitts at various positions and angles, as punching targets to
promote proper form and reflexes. Focus mitts are padded gloves
that are worn by a training partner, either a trainer or a sparring
partner. Using focus mitts is a very effective training technique
because it offers the trainee a chance to practice with a moving
target. However, gym memberships can be costly and there is no
guarantee that a particular gym will offer facilities for and/or
instruction in boxing that an individual desires. Furthermore, due
to location and/or time constraints, it may not be possible for
individuals to go to gyms which have boxing facilities and/or
boxing instruction. Moreover, many individuals prefer to exercise
on their own, as their schedule permits, without being constrained
by a gym's traditional hours, which may not be accommodating to a
variety of individuals' busy schedules. Thus, a need exists for an
exercise apparatus that has certain improved features employing an
electronic training system which allows a user to simulate the
different punches used in boxing.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention is directed to a training device and,
more particularly, to an exercise apparatus which allows a user to
simulate the basic punches used in boxing. The exercise apparatus
includes a frame for providing support to the structure rigidly
within the confines of a doorframe. The frame may further include a
lower support member, the lower support member being attached to a
base which extends down to rest on the floor. The base may include
a mechanical mechanism which may be used to adjust the height of
the exercise apparatus. The frame may further include a pair of
selectively extendable horizontal support members, allowing the
exercise apparatus to be temporarily secured within the
doorframe.
[0006] Each of the horizontal support members preferably has a side
bracket for securing the exercise apparatus into a doorframe. The
brackets are held substantially in place against the doorframe when
the side brackets are extended to secure against a doorframe. When
the side brackets are retracted, the exercise apparatus may be
removed from the doorframe and stored, making the doorway
accessible once more. The horizontal support members may be fixedly
connected to each other by a pair of vertical support members,
which are positioned substantially parallel to each other. A
T-shaped support member may be fixedly secured to the horizontal
support member and between the vertical support members. Each of
the vertical support members may further include an angled support
member extending outward from the frame.
[0007] A plurality of target pads may be fixedly secured to the
frame and positioned at specific angles to assist the user in
executing punches correctly. Each of the target pads may be secured
to either the t-shaped support member or to one of the angled
support members. Each target pad is preferably positioned and
angled to promote proper form for a specific punch. Each of the
target pads may further include a housing member extending from the
back face of each target pad, and may include sensors for
determining the timing of a punch. The exercise apparatus may also
further include a microprocessor operably connected to a plurality
of electronic mechanisms enclosed within each of the target pads
for providing an interactive training system. Specific advantages
and features of the present assembly will be apparent from the
accompanying drawings and the description of several illustrative
embodiments of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a front elevation view of one embodiment
of an exercise apparatus constructed in accordance with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the exercise apparatus of
FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the exercise apparatus
of FIG. 1 without the target pads.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.
1 without the target pads.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a close up front elevation view of a target pad of
the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a close up side elevation view of the exercise
apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the exercise apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0017] FIG. 10 is an environmental view showing the exercise
apparatus of FIG. 1 installed in a doorway.
[0018] It should be understood that the present drawings are not
necessarily to scale and that the embodiments disclosed herein are
sometimes illustrated by fragmentary views. In certain instances,
details which are not necessary for an understanding of the present
invention or which render other details difficult to perceive may
have been omitted. It should also be understood that the invention
is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments
illustrated herein. Like numbers utilized throughout the various
figures designate like or similar parts or structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] In this application for an exercise apparatus 10, a
dimensional coordinate system consisting of an x-, y- and z-axis,
is used for spatial reference, with the x-axis running parallel to
the ground and from left to right, the y-axis running perpendicular
to the ground and the z-axis running parallel to the ground and
perpendicular to the x-axis.
[0020] Referring now to the drawings, as best seen in FIGS. 1-3,
the exercise apparatus 10 includes a frame 12 for providing support
and to facilitate installation of the exercise apparatus 10 into a
doorframe, and a control panel 14 for displaying information or
entertainment to a user. The frame 12 may be fashioned from any
suitable material, including, but not limited to: metal, metal
alloy, plastic, plastic composite, wood, fiberglass and the like.
The frame 12 may further include a lower support member 16A and a
height adjustment member 16B which is selectively extendable from
the lower support member 16A, both positioned substantially along
the y-axis in line with one another. Adjustment holes 20 are
preferably positioned along the length of the height adjustment
member 16B to effectuate locking the height adjustment member 16B
at a user-selected position relative to the lower support member
16A, such as with a locking pin. The lower support member 16A may
be further attached to a base 18 which is provided to rest the
exercise apparatus 10 on the floor. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the
lower support member 16A may include a spring 19 to assist in the
extension of the height adjustment member 16B from the lower
support member 16A to effectuate raising of the exercise apparatus
10. Other mechanisms for assisting in the raising of the exercise
apparatus 10 may also be employed as would be understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art, including but not limited to a jacking
or ratcheting mechanism or the like.
[0021] As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the frame 12 may
further include a pair of horizontal support members 22A positioned
substantially parallel to each other and substantially along the
x-axis. Preferably, each horizontal support member 22A includes a
horizontal extension member 22B which can be selectively extended
from horizontal support member 22A. Adjustment holes 20 are
preferably positioned along the length of each horizontal extension
member 22B to effectuate locking of each horizontal extension
member 22B at a user-selected position relative to its respective
horizontal support member 22A, such as with a locking pin. Each of
the horizontal extension members 22B preferably includes at least
one front bracket 24A for engaging the front of a doorframe to
secure the exercise apparatus 10 therein. A fine adjustment
mechanism, such as a screw mechanism (not shown) as would be
understood, may also be included to further extend or retract the
front brackets 24A for firm engagement with a doorframe.
[0022] In operation, to install the exercise apparatus 10 in a door
frame, the exercise apparatus is preferably placed within a
doorframe. The height adjustment member 16B is raised or lowered
with respect to the lower support member, and is locked in place
via a locking pin to secure the exercise apparatus 10 at a proper
height for the user. The horizontal extension members 22B are then
extended from the horizontal support members 22A so that front
brackets 24A engage with or nearly engage with each of the sides of
the doorframe, and are locked in place with a locking pin. If any
fine adjustment is needed to properly engage such front brackets
24A with the doorframe, a fine adjustment mechanism may be used to
further extend or retract the brackets 24A so that they properly
engage the doorframe. The brackets 24A are thereby held
substantially in place against the doorframe, so as to secure the
exercise apparatus 10 in place from the sides.
[0023] Later, any such locking pins may be removed to allow the
height adjustment member 16B and/or the horizontal extension
members 22B to retract back into their respective housings. This
allows for removal of the exercise apparatus 10 from the doorframe.
making the doorway accessible once more.
[0024] As best shown in FIG. 4, the horizontal support members 22A
may be fixedly connected to each other by a pair of vertical
support members 26A and 26B. The vertical support members 26A and
26B may be positioned substantially parallel to each other and
substantially along the y-axis. An additional support member 28 may
be fixedly secured to the horizontal support member 22A and between
the vertical support members 26A and 26B. Each of the vertical
support members 26A and 26B may further include an angled support
member 30A and 30B extending outward from the frame. In one
embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 5, the inner angle formed by the
horizontal support members 22A, 22B and the angled support member
30A is preferably between 108.degree. and 128.degree., more
preferably at approximately 118.degree.. Likewise, the inner angle
formed by the horizontal support members 22A, 22B and the angled
support member 30B is preferably between 108.degree. and
128.degree., more preferably at approximately 118.degree..
[0025] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and 5-9, several target pads 32
may be secured to the frame 12 and positioned at specific angles to
assist the user in executing punches with correct form. The target
pads 32 may be fashioned from any suitable material, including, but
not limited to: plastic, plastic composite, padding, foam,
cellulose, polyurethane, rubber, elastomer and the like. In one
embodiment, each of the target pads 32 may be secured to either the
support member 28 or to one of the angled support members 30A or
30B. Each of the target pads 32 may further include a housing
member 34 extending from the back face of each target pad 32. In
one embodiment, each of the housing members 34 may be designed to
facilitate shock absorption when a target pad 32 is struck by the
user, and each housing member may thus further include a spring. In
yet another embodiment, each of the housing members 34 may be used
to adjust the position of the target pads 32, allowing users to
customize the angle of each of the target pads 32 as desired.
Alternatively, housing members 34 may be static with respect to
frame 12.
[0026] The target pads 32 may be positioned to facilitate a boxer's
ability to strategically throw punches at a target and to employ
the four generally recognized punches in boxing as well as
variations of such punches deriving therefrom. In one embodiment,
the target pads 32 may include a center pad 32A, a left angle pad
32B, a right angle pad 32C, a left wing pad 32D and a right wing
pad 32E. As can be best seen in FIG. 6, the center pad 32A may be
secured to t-shaped support member 28 and positioned generally
parallel to both the x-axis and y-axis and perpendicular to the
z-axis. This positioning of center pad 32A promotes proper form for
throwing a jab, as a jab should be a compact, straight punch.
[0027] Both the left angle pad 32B and the right angle pad 32C may
be positioned generally parallel to both the x-axis and the y-axis,
intersecting the z-axis, such that the left angle pad 32B and the
right angle pad 32C generally mirror each other. The left angle pad
32B may be secured to the angled support member 30A and positioned
such that the angle formed between the angled support member 30A
and the housing member 34 is preferably between 90.degree. and
110.degree., more preferably at approximately 100.degree.. This
positioning of the left angle pad 32B promotes the proper form for
a right-cross (or a right hook for a left handed boxer), as a right
cross should be substantially level with the ground, but at a
slight angle crossing in front of the body. Similarly, the right
angle pad 32C may be secured to the angled support member 30B and
positioned such that the angle formed between the angled support
member 30B and the housing member 34 is preferably between
90.degree. and 110.degree., more preferably at approximately
100.degree.. As above, the positioning of the right angle pad 32C
promotes the proper form for a left hook (or a left-cross for a
left handed boxer), as a left hook should also be substantially
level with the ground, but at a sweeping angle crossing in front of
the body.
[0028] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the left wing pad 32D may be
secured to the angled support member 30A and positioned such that
the angle formed between the angled support member 30A and the
housing member 34 is preferably between 68.degree. and 88.degree.,
more preferably at approximately 78.degree. in the x-z plane,
16.degree. below parallel with the x axis. The left wing pad 32D
may be positioned preferably between 22.degree. and 42.degree.
below the x-axis in the x-y plane, and more preferably at
32.degree. below the x-axis as shown in FIG. 7. As can be seen in
FIG. 8, the left wing pad 32D may be further positioned preferably
between 53.degree. and 73.degree. below the z-axis in the y-z
plane, more preferably at 63.degree. below the z-axis. The right
wing pad 32E preferably mirrors the positioning of the left wing
pad 32D. This slightly downward and inward positioning of the left
wing pad 32D and right wing pad 32E is designed to promote the
proper form for throwing left and right uppercuts, which should
begin low and be directed upward, while moving slightly across the
body. Thus, the left and right wing pads 32D, 32E are designed to
simulate a boxing training positioning his mitts low and at an
inward angle to allow a boxer to properly practice throwing
uppercuts.
[0029] As noted above, the exercise apparatus 10 may include a
control panel 14 associated with a microprocessor operably
connected to a plurality of lights and electronic mechanisms
enclosed within each of the target pads 32 for providing an
interactive training system. Electronic mechanisms within a target
pad may include pressure sensors to detect the timing of punches
thrown. By transmitting this information to the microprocessor, the
exercise apparatus 10 may monitor the number of punches landed in a
predetermined interval, and may award points based on predetermined
thresholds of either or both. Such a scoring system may allow
trainers to set goals for boxing students, and/or may create a game
out of practicing. For example, the control panel 14 may turn on
lights positioned near each pad indicating which punch should be
thrown next. Thereby, a trainer may create a workout routine,
instructing a student to punch certain targets in a given sequence
without actually being present. Alternatively, the control panel 14
may execute pre-loaded sequences, or may randomly create new
sequences.
[0030] The control panel 14 preferably includes a display screen
for displaying various information to the user, including, but not
limited to: a choice of interactive exercise programs, the level or
speed of the sequences, a timer, statistics about the user's
punches (accuracy, number of punches landed, etc.) and calories
burned, among other things. The control panel 14 may include a
digital music player, allowing the control panel 14 to sync the
lights, so as to signaling the user to punch with the beat of the
music.
[0031] Thus, there has been shown and described an embodiment of a
novel exercise apparatus. As is evident from the foregoing
description, certain aspects of the present invention are not
limited by the particular details of the examples illustrated
herein, and it is therefore contemplated that other modifications
and applications, or equivalents thereof, will occur to those
skilled in the art. The terms "having" and "including" and similar
terms as used in the foregoing specification are used in the sense
of "optional" or "may include" and not as "required". Many changes,
modifications, variations and other uses and applications of the
present invention will, however, become apparent to those skilled
in the art after considering the specification and the accompanying
drawings. All such changes, modifications, variations and other
uses and applications which do not depart from the spirit and scope
of the invention are deemed to be covered by the invention which is
limited only by the claims which follow.
* * * * *