Attachable To Foot Patents (Class 473/217)
  • Patent number: 11812821
    Abstract: A shoe for golf including an upper, a midsole, and an outsole arranged to form an enclosure adapted to receive a foot of a wearer, and a toe area disposed at a front of the shoe and adapted to house toes of the wearer, where the toe area has an oblique shape delimited by an outer radius of the outsole of greater than zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: SQAIRZ LLC
    Inventors: Robert Winskowicz, Joseph Napurano
  • Patent number: 10814204
    Abstract: A golf directional aid that is attached to each shoe of the two shoes of an individual who is playing golf, to visually assist the individual physically align his/her feet with respect to an intended target (e.g., fairway, green, hole, etc.) quickly and easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Inventor: Frederick Leslie Ball
  • Patent number: 10681958
    Abstract: An athletic shoe includes an upper section, a mid-sole, an outsole, and an extension. The outsole is coupled to the upper section and the mid-sole. The extension is coupled to the outsole and/or the mid-sole. The extension is on a medial side of the athletic shoe when worn on a dominant side and it extends from a toe section of the athletic shoe to a mid-foot section of the athletic shoe and, from a bottom perspective, extends beyond the upper section to provide an increase in force during performance of a rotational athletic task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Inventor: Michael Toschi
  • Patent number: 10625109
    Abstract: An exerciser that is discreet, portable, wearable, and easy-to-install and remove is presented. It is designed to custom-fit to the body for isometric and isotonic exercises to strengthen and develop the upper torso and leg muscles through resistive movement of opposing muscle groups. One example of the exerciser consists of support and grip straps and 360° swivel. The support strap is a loop that is fastened to either or both wrists, arms, legs, or ankles with a buckle or equivalent closure, and designed to form fit to the appendages with ½-inch spaced holes. The grip strap is a continuous loop used as a grip for the hands. The exerciser can facilitate many range-of-motion exercises in the frontal, sagittal and transverse planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Inventor: Joseph J. Bytella
  • Patent number: 10421000
    Abstract: The present invention is a golfer's foot stabilizing device that stabilizes golfer's front foot by arresting foot movement for achieving desired angular position of golfer's body during golf swing and is easily portable. Golfer's foot stabilizing device includes arresting member and securing element. Arresting member includes base member having openings, foot arrestor member and hinge connection that pivotally connects base member and foot arrestor member such that base member is selectively folded and un-folded with respect to foot arrestor member. Securing element includes support element and projections. Projections are introduced in the ground after passing through openings such that support element arrests movement of base member on the ground. Front foot of user is positioned on base member and during swing movement of user front foot is arrested by foot arrestor member thereby achieving desired angular position. Arresting member is provided with handle that facilitates easy lifting and carrying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Inventors: Erma Marin, Frank Marin
  • Patent number: 10286285
    Abstract: A display method includes acquiring first attitude information of the hands of a subject holding an exercise equipment during standing still on the basis of an output from an inertial sensor (sensor unit) which measures a swing action of the subject (user) performing a swing with the exercise equipment (golf club) and is attached to at least one of the exercise equipment and the subject, acquiring second attitude information of the hands of the subject holding the exercise equipment at impact on the basis of an output from the inertial sensor, and displaying at least one of the first attitude information and the second attitude information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Ito, Kazuhiro Shibuya, Kenya Kodaira
  • Patent number: 9833679
    Abstract: The golf shoe holder with dismountable threaded cleats prevents the supporting foot of a person from moving when attempting to hit the golf ball with a golf club. This is achieved as the holder has two holes with different diameters: the large diameter is to be held between the cleats and the golf shoe sole, by means of the threads that both parts have, and the small diameter is where it holds on to the grass by means of a tee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Inventor: Roberto Serrano Cruz
  • Patent number: 9139274
    Abstract: An attachment system for attaching shoes having toe and heel areas to a wide variety of sports equipment, in particular to a rowing boat or a rowing machine. The system includes an attachment device that is connected to or otherwise a part of the equipment, and a shoe block assembly that accepts the attachment device. These parts generally removably lock together for use of the equipment, which provides users custom features, better control over the force applied to the equipment via the shoe, and automatic emergency functions. An adjustment device generally fits into the shoe block assembly and is fixed to the shoe block assembly with screws or any other attachment methods, or could be formed as a part of the shoe block assembly, and the shoe block assembly is removably attachable to the attachment device by magnetic force or non-magnetic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Inventor: Stephen R. West
  • Patent number: 8992351
    Abstract: A golf ball kicking device having hands-free interchangeability of golf club heads comprising a mounting plate secured to the shoe and a retaining member affixed to the mounting plate and having a pivoting lever with a release member in communication with a rear face of a club head. The mounting plate has a magnet and the rear face of the club head is constructed of a magnetic material so as to releasably mount the club head onto the mounting plate. When the club head is secured against the magnet, the club head impacts upon the release member so as to pivot the pivoting lever to a first position. When sufficient force is applied to the pivoting lever, the pivoting lever pivots to a second position thereby directing the release member to impact upon the club head and dislodge the club head from the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Nicholas D. Manou
  • Patent number: 8864597
    Abstract: A weight shift feedback apparatus senses a weight shift in a golf swing motion of the user, collects, synchronizes and stores the sensed weight shift information, analyzes a weight value applied to each foot of the user with respect to time based on the stored data, and extracts important points of a swing. The weight shift of the user may be evaluated based on an address point, a backswing top point, an impact point, and a point where the weight value applied to each foot has a maximum value, and the feedback information for the evaluation may be provided to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Jin Wook Kim, An Jin Park, Hyeong Rae Choi, Sung Kuk Chun, Dong Hoon Kang
  • Patent number: 8641546
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer readable media for changing and controlling settings for adjustable golf clubs are described. Such setting adjustment systems may alter one or more of: lie angle, loft angle, face angle, shaft stiffness, shaft kickpoint location, weighting, weight positioning, face flexibility, maximum face flex location, etc. These systems and methods may use various types of information to determine the appropriate settings, such as: ball launch monitor data, swing path data, weather input data, course condition input data for a location of play, course design input data for a location of play, daily course layout input data for a location and a time of play, golfer past performance data (e.g., recent past performance, past performances at the location of play, past performance during an ongoing round of golf (i.e., on earlier played holes), etc.), current adjustable club setting information, and information indicating specific holes to be played.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. Rauchholz
  • Patent number: 8641547
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer readable media for changing and controlling settings for adjustable golf clubs are described. Such setting adjustment systems may alter one or more of: lie angle, loft angle, face angle, shaft stiffness, shaft kickpoint location, weighting, weight positioning, face flexibility, maximum face flex location, etc. These systems and methods may use various types of information to determine the appropriate settings, such as: ball launch monitor data, swing path data, weather input data, course condition input data for a location of play, course design input data for a location of play, daily course layout input data for a location and a time of play, golfer past performance data (e.g., recent past performance, past performances at the location of play, past performance during an ongoing round of golf (i.e., on earlier played holes), etc.), current adjustable club setting information, and information indicating specific holes to be played.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: William F. Rauchholz, James A. Niegowski
  • Patent number: 8636603
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer readable media for changing and controlling settings for adjustable golf clubs are described. Such setting adjustment systems may alter one or more of: lie angle, loft angle, face angle, shaft stiffness, shaft kickpoint location, weighting, weight positioning, face flexibility, maximum face flex location, etc. These systems and methods may use various types of information to determine the appropriate settings, such as: ball launch monitor data, swing path data, weather input data, course condition input data for a location of play, course design input data for a location of play, daily course layout input data for a location and a time of play, golfer past performance data (e.g., recent past performance, past performances at the location of play, past performance during an ongoing round of golf (i.e., on earlier played holes), etc.), current adjustable club setting information, and information indicating specific holes to be played.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. Rauchholz
  • Patent number: 8574090
    Abstract: A rotating foot anchor comprises a base, a pivot pin, and a spring strap. The foot of a user is placed on the base and beneath the spring strap. The foot anchor provides smooth rotation of the user's foot during a follow-through of a golf swing. The pivot pin comprises a downward pointed protrusion which penetrates a ground surface to further secure the device. As the user swings a golf club, the pivot pin enables the foot anchor along with the user's foot to rotate and therefore relive stress applied to the player's knees and back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph R. Veres
  • Publication number: 20130210536
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a golf shot alignment and support system using golf shoes which have at least a portion of the front portion of the sole or welt, or both, of the shoe squared off, and aligning the squared off portion to help set up golfer's feet parallel toward an intended target. The golf shoes further provide a point of balance for the golfer at the end of the golf swing. The present disclosure also provides for methods of their use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Winskowicz
  • Patent number: 8485913
    Abstract: A swing training apparatus includes a rotation mechanism and a wearable shoe attachment device. The rotation mechanism includes a first plate connected to a second plate so that the first plate rotates with respect to the second plate about a shared plate axis of rotation. The wearable shoe attachment device is connected to the first plate. The wearable shoe attachment device positions a shoe of an athlete so that as the athlete rotates a foot and the shoe enclosing the foot with respect to a part of the foot and about a foot axis of rotation, the foot axis of rotation and the plate axis of rotation coincide. The wearable shoe attachment device connects to the first plate so that the swing training apparatus moves with the foot while walking or running. The wearable shoe attachment device includes three straps that secure a shoe snuggly to the rotation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Antolick
  • Publication number: 20120329567
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide devices for stabilizing the foot of a golfer during a swing to improve the golfer's form. Embodiments disclose a variety of strap designs to hold a spike, such as a golf tee, underneath the sole of the golf shoe. The spike engages the ground to limit the movement of the foot during a swing to improve the mechanics of a golfer's swing. Some embodiments include a strap to which the golf tee is removably secured. Other embodiments provide for golf shoe designs which incorporate the spike or an attachment mechanism for a spike.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Adan Anastasios RAMMOS, Jared James Tavares
  • Publication number: 20120264533
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a golf swing trainer for improving a golfer's drive, posture, and technique when swing a golf club. The golf swing trainer includes a base, two lateral arms, and inside and outside guides which form a corridor through which a golf club is swung. Other elongated members are disclosed for securing a golfer's waste with a harness, bracing their leg, and the like. These components allow a golfer to simulate a golf swing and practice posture and technique preparatory to driving an actual golf ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Quentin Sasser
  • Patent number: 8177653
    Abstract: A swing training apparatus includes a first plate, a second, plate, a moveable joint, and an angular resistance mechanism. The movable joint connects the first plate to the second plate so that the first plate can rotate with respect to the second plate and about a shared plate axis of rotation. The angular resistance mechanism is connected between the first plate and the second plate. It increases angular resistance between the first plate and the second plate as an angle of rotation about the plate axis of rotation is increased. A shoe of an athlete contacts the first plate. The shoe is positioned on the first plate so that, as the athlete rotates a foot and the shoe enclosing the foot with respect to a part of the foot and about a foot axis of rotation, the foot axis of rotation and the plate axis of rotation coincide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Antolick
  • Patent number: 8065105
    Abstract: A system including a platform having a receptacle adapted to a bottom of a shoe or foot; securing mechanism, associated therewith; a sole for contacting a ground surface; a mechanism associated with the sole and a platform bottom, including: motor and a thrusting element, activated by the motor, the thrusting element adapted to move between the sole and the platform to apply an upward force against the platform bottom, thereby changing a platform height with respect to the sole; a sensor device adapted to associate with a lower limb, and to produce a locomotion data signal, and a microprocessor, operatively connected to the sensor device and motor, adapted to: receive locomotion information based on the signal; process the locomotion information to determine a locomotion phase, and control a timing of the mechanism, based on the determination, to change the height during a locomotion swing phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Step of Mind Ltd.
    Inventors: Simona Bar-Haim, Mark Belokopytov
  • Publication number: 20110230274
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for providing coaching, training, or equipment specification information to individual golfers based on data generated during their individual golf swings. Additionally, data hubs are described that provide information and services to individuals based on data collected for a community of multiple golfers. Such community data hub systems and methods may provide one or more of the following: (a) storage of scoring data, swing data, ball flight data, and/or equipment data for multiple golfers; (b) at least some level of individual access to the stored data for the community; and/or (c) electronic interaction between golfers within the community.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Mario A. Lafortune, James A. Niegowski
  • Publication number: 20110230985
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for providing coaching, training, or equipment specification information to individual golfers based on data generated during their individual golf swings. Additionally, data hubs are described that provide information and services to individuals based on data collected for a community of multiple golfers. Such community data hub systems and methods may provide one or more of the following: (a) storage of scoring data, swing data, ball flight data, and/or equipment data for multiple golfers; (b) at least some level of individual access to the stored data for the community; and/or (c) electronic interaction between golfers within the community.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: James A. Niegowski, Mario A. Lafortune
  • Publication number: 20110230273
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for providing coaching, training, or equipment specification information to individual golfers based on data generated during their individual golf swings. Additionally, data hubs are described that provide information and services to individuals based on data collected for a community of multiple golfers. Such community data hub systems and methods may provide one or more of the following: (a) storage of scoring data, swing data, ball flight data, and/or equipment data for multiple golfers; (b) at least some level of individual access to the stored data for the community; and/or (c) electronic interaction between golfers within the community.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: James A. Niegowski, Mario A. Lafortune
  • Publication number: 20100311514
    Abstract: A swing training apparatus includes a first plate, a second, plate, a moveable joint, and an angular resistance mechanism. The movable joint connects the first plate to the second plate so that the first plate can rotate with respect to the second plate and about a shared plate axis of rotation. The angular resistance mechanism is connected between the first plate and the second plate. It increases angular resistance between the first plate and the second plate as an angle of rotation about the plate axis of rotation is increased. A shoe of an athlete contacts the first plate. The shoe is positioned on the first plate so that, as the athlete rotates a foot and the shoe enclosing the foot with respect to a part of the foot and about a foot axis of rotation, the foot axis of rotation and the plate axis of rotation coincide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Antolick
  • Patent number: 7758438
    Abstract: The golf aid apparatus provides for instant fit and removal from either of a golfer's shoes, left or right. The apparatus fits the toe of the employed shoe and provides for a golfer to properly align feet, with the telescopic rod aimed toward an intended target of the golf swing. The apparatus is useful for proper alignment in any swing, including putting strokes. Fitting the toe provides for best visual alignment while also providing ease of fit and removal. The combined loop is slideably fitted around the telescopic rod so that a user has even more freedom in positioning the rod as desired. The rod is adjustable up to 20 inches in length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: Maria R. Colomberti
  • Patent number: 7758436
    Abstract: A swinging and hitting training aid for batters and golfers having first, second and third attachment members that attach to a person's arm, calf, and foot respectively. The training aid includes an stretchable band of resistance tubing that provides a visible indicator between the first and second attachment members. The visible indicator includes a pair of abutting sleeves that form a separable cover about the resistance tubing. The visible indicator is connected to the first attachment member by a first tether, and the second attachment member is connected to the third attachment member by a second tether. The tethers may be fixed or variable length and may include resistance tubing of greater resistance than the stretchable band of the visible indicator portion of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Launch Pad 39A, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Reynolds
  • Patent number: 7662048
    Abstract: The present invention is a golf swing training device which guides the golfer's leading leg in an arc around the trailing heel, maintaining a minimum distance between the leading leg and trailing heel. This device guides the golfer's leg action in a 3-dimensional manner to produce a coiling motion on the backswing, which maintains a consistent spine angle as recommended by modern golf instructors. This device comprises a leg brace with flexible cuff which attaches to a golfer's leading leg above the knee, an adjustable strut, and a heel base for the golfer's trailing foot which tilts slightly in the leading direction. For left-handed golfers, this device substitutes a heel base with opposite swivel placement and tilt. This invention resets automatically to the correct position during practice sessions. The benefit for a golfer of using this invention is increased consistency, accuracy, and power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventors: Jason Armas Libby, William C. Libby
  • Patent number: 7610688
    Abstract: A shoe with a leveling instrument for detecting a relative height and a gradient of a ground to step thereon with the shoe, includes an outsole disposed at a lower portion of the shoe, an upper disposed at an upper portion of the outsole, an x-direction leveling instrument formed or affixed at the girth (i.e., an upper strip portion or welt) of a front end portion of the outsole or the upper, a top surface thereof being externally exposed, and a y-direction leveling instrument formed or affixed at the girth of a side portion of the outsole or the upper thereof, a top surface thereof being externally exposed. Accordingly, the shoes having the leveling instrument can detect the relative height and the gradient around the ground stepped by a user, whereby helping to correct a swing posture of a golfer, conduct a measurement operation of various engineers in architectural and civil engineering etc., and correct a walking posture of a walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Ji Hae Yun
  • Publication number: 20090118027
    Abstract: A golf alignment device for use to obtain correct alignment of a golfer's feet with respect to a golf ball and intended target before execution of a golf swing. The golf alignment device (50) is attached to the front (70) of the golfer (100) and is positioned in front of the golfer and an intended target (60). The alignment device comprises: a feet alignment member (12) configured to allow a golfer to align the golfer's feet (56) perpendicular to the length of the member; and a target member (10) configured to be pointed at the target and in a direction different to the feet alignment member in accordance with a deviation angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald John Safstrom
  • Publication number: 20090098945
    Abstract: The present invention relates to devices more specifically for use in sports training in the fields of baseball, softball, golf, tennis, and other sports requiring control of, and the accuracy of a swing of the wrists, the positioning and follow through of the foots, and the positioning of the body when developing its precision and its reactions to moving objects. Important to the concept is the location of the pivot point or “center of action” associated with the muscular control developed when using this device. By attaching the resistance bands at the waist, proper control and muscle development relating to improved performance is accomplished.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventor: Nathaniel L. George
  • Patent number: 7468004
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for correcting golf swing posture. The device includes a footboard which is formed so that a foot is seated and supported thereon, and has a pair of facing locking brackets and a foot support part for supporting a foot. A support cuff is provided at an end of the footboard to support a leg, a lower surface of the support cuff, which contacts the footboard, being formed to be convex such that the support cuff rotates within a range of swing motion, the support cuff having locking recesses which are coupled to the locking brackets and a leg support part for supporting the leg. A fastening means detachably fastens the locking brackets of the footboard to the locking recesses of the support cuff. Thereby, the support cuff rotates about the fastening means at a predetermined angle as swing motion is conducted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Buhm Soo Kim
  • Patent number: 7335117
    Abstract: A device for practicing an address stance and ball-hitting motion in sports such as baseball, softball and tennis. A hitter stands on a step plate (30) and a swivel plate (31) mounted on a flat base (12). The plates have adjustable separation, with the step plate fixable in a plurality of locations relative to the swivel plate. The plates align the hitter's feet using toe stops (36). The step plate (30) has a foot guard (34) that forces the hitter to step toward the pitch. The swivel plate (31) rotates about a vertical axis, and has foot-retaining straps (38, 39) that allow the heel to lift. The hitter learns to step toward the ball and swivel the back foot while swinging, turning the body, and shifting weight toward the ball. The foot plates (30, 31) are reversible on the base (12) for right or left-handed use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Debra R. Reason-Kerkhoff
  • Publication number: 20080015042
    Abstract: The Golfer's Sway Detector is a golf aid that attaches to the golfer's shoe and provides Immediate audio feedback as soon as the they start to sway as they go into their back swing. It is comprised of a pressure sensor switch that detects any increase in vertical load at the base of the user's 5th metatarsal head. It in turn activates a speaker that then emits an audio signal alerting the golfer that he or she is starting to sway. The pressure sensor switch can also be placed under the base of the user's 1'st metatarsal head to indicate that proper push off is occurring off the toe during their down swing thus adding power to their stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventor: Alvin Glass
  • Patent number: 7163464
    Abstract: A novel system and method for controlling and stabilizing the swing mechanics of a golfer is disclosed. More specifically, a system for and method of stabilizing the right knee (the left knee for left handed golfers) of a golfer such that a critical knee flexion angle is maintained throughout the golf swing, the weight of the golfer is properly transferred, and the right hand side (left hand side for left handed golfers) is properly loaded for a reliable, consistent, controlled, and safe golf swing. The system and method further comprise use of a putting attachment that can be removably secured to a primary apparatus for controlling a golfer's stance through all phases of a putting stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Brian P. McKeon
  • Patent number: 7156747
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the game of golf and golf accessories more particularly, to an alignment device for setting a player's stance. This invention relates to golf training devices and the method of using the devices. Specifically disclosed herein is a device for stabilizing a golfer's feet and stance while the golfer practices the swing. The device may be employed in the process of hitting a golf ball or executing a swinging motion of a golf club without actually contacting a golf ball or a golf ball being present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: SM+C, Inc
    Inventor: Alvin Sharell Perry
  • Patent number: 6955616
    Abstract: An apparatus for modifying the stride of a baseball batter's swing motion, including means of capturing a lower portion of a baseball batter's foot and means of elastomerically tethering the capturing means to substratum, wherein the batter's leading foot is allowed to stride in any direction essentially free of substantial distal destabilizing hindrance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventors: Gary A Barth, Greg A. Barth
  • Patent number: 6672973
    Abstract: A golfer training device (50) is disclosed. The device (50) includes a first strap (52) which is fastened around a golfer's leg above the knee (36). A second strap (14) is fastened just above the ankle (38) and below the calf muscle of the same leg. A third strap (16) is joined to and interconnects both the first and second straps (52, 14), and runs vertically up behind the leg to a type of quick-release adjusting clasp (70). All three straps are made of a substantially inextensible, flexible material. The length of the third strap (16) can be shortened by pulling on an adjusting strap (30), thereby causing the leg to bend at the knee (36). A tube (64) behind the golfer's knee (36) ensures that there is also a horizontal pull on strap (52), which helps to securely hold strap (52) in place and prevent it from slipping down the leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Stellar Promotions Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Michael Cornelis Muntz
  • Patent number: 6638176
    Abstract: A sports stance and follow through training apparatus is provided having a generally elongated, planar position platform for resting parallel to the ground. A foot guard is affixed to the upper resting surface of the position platform at the front, and is formed of a flexible, elastic member forming a concave receiving cap made from a material such as SPANDEX (™). An impingement spike formed of a vertically elongated tapered shaft is pivotally affixed to the lower ground contact surface to allow said position platform to pivot about a centerline of the spike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventors: Cedric M. Hayes, Daniel Zolnier
  • Publication number: 20030134685
    Abstract: A golf-swing training device includes a neck strap for wearing about the neck of a golfer-under-training. A tether strap connects to a front part of the neck strap and has an adjustable length. A foot plate is connected to a distal end of the tether strap, and is intended to be held under a foot of the golfer-under-training. Such provides for the head and neck of the golfer-under-training to be held at a constant elevation during a swinging of a golf club. A clip may be attached to the middle of the tether strap and the clothing of the golfer-under-training so the tether strap will be kept close in and away from the swinging golf club.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: John Piatt
  • Patent number: 6432001
    Abstract: A foot position training apparatus for teaching proper foot position for batting a baseball includes a foot support member formed in the shape of the sole of a shoe. A toe portion is attached to a front edge of the support member and extends upwardly and rearwardly therefrom and defines a space for receiving the toes of a batter's foot and, more particularly, for receiving the toe portion of a batter's shoe. The toe portion restricts vertical movement of a batter's foot when batting a baseball. The apparatus further includes an upstanding wall extending along an outer edge of the support surface between the toe portion and a rear edge for restricting outward lateral movement of a batter's foot when batting a baseball. A plurality of cleats are threadably coupled to a lower surface of the foot support member for selectively engaging a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventor: Randall K. Pierce
  • Patent number: 6375582
    Abstract: A training device worn by a golfer includes a first shoe retainer that is secured to a first shoe of the golfer and a second shoe retainer that is secured to a second shoe of the golfer. In a first embodiment, a housing is pivotally mounted to a toe end of the first retainer and a post is mounted to the toe end of the second retainer. An axle is rotatably mounted in the housing and a first tape measure is coiled about the axle and has a first end secured to the axle. A second tape measure is coiled about the axle and has a first end secured to the axle in diametrically opposed relation to the first end of the first tape measure. The axle is biased so that both tape measures are coiled about it when in repose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: George P. Harris
  • Patent number: 6270432
    Abstract: A sports footwork training device that immediately alerts players if their weight is not on the balls of the feet includes a switch removably attachable to a rearward portion of a lower surface of a sole of a shoe. The switch is closable by application of pressure to a heel of the shoe. An alarm, electrically coupled to the switch, is triggered when the switch is closed. A method for training a sports participant to maintain weight on a forward part of a foot is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Linda T. Matlock
  • Patent number: 6106408
    Abstract: A golf stance training device comprises an elongated base strip and foot guide means extending rearwardly from said base strip and adapted to guide the placement of the front foot of a golfer. A lateral strip has one end adjustably pivotally connected to the front end of the base strip and extends laterally forwardly therefrom. A forwardly outwardly inclined diagonal strip is connected the other end of said lateral strip, with the lateral strip being adjustably moveable along said diagonal strip. A ball positioning strip, when in use, is fixed to the front end of said diagonal strip at a predetermined angle and extends rearwardly to establish a ball placement position. The lateral strip is adjustable with respect to the base strip and the diagonal strip so as to adjust the device for use by golfers of different heights. The ball positioning strip is substantially parallel to the base strip for all adjusted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Leonard W. Roman
  • Patent number: 6001023
    Abstract: The angle activated training device, in one embodiment, is worn on the backside of a golfer's rearward shoe. In another embodiment, the training device is mounted onto the shaft of a golf club. The shoe device includes a compact container no larger than the backside of a golfer's shoe. The container is mounted on to the shoe via a clip-on mechanism. The container includes, in its interior, a power source, a control switch, an alarm consisting of either a vibratory alarm or an audible alarm and an angle activated switch. Since these items are electrically coupled together, when the control switch is closed, a vibratory or an audible alarm is issued when the backside of a golfer's shoe is in horizontal position at a final finish position of a golfer's strike. The angle activated training device mounted on the shaft of a golf club includes the same electrical components but the alarm is issued when the club passes through one of at least two horizontal positions when the club is properly swung by a golfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignees: Richard D. Sanchez, Gunther H. Steen
    Inventors: Richard D. Sanchez, Gunther H. Steen
  • Patent number: 5947832
    Abstract: A golf training aid for teaching an individual correct ball positioning when in a golfer's stance. The inventive device includes a pliable U-shaped member dimensioned for securement to a heel of a golfer's shoe. An aiming rod extends from the U-shaped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Raymond S. Gagne
  • Patent number: 5820476
    Abstract: A golf putter leveling system including a shoe level adapted for securement to a golf shoe. A putter level is provided that is adapted for securement to a shaft of a golf putter. The putter level includes a base portion having a lower arcuate recess and an upper arcuate recess. The lower arcuate recess has a pair of detents disposed on opposing sides thereof. The lower arcuate recess snapidly engages the shaft of the golf putter. The upper arcuate recess has a level portion disposed therein. A putter leveler is adapted for securement to the shaft of the golf putter. The putter leveler has an upper portion defined by an arcuate recess for engaging the shaft of the golf putter. The putter leveler has a lower portion defined by outwardly extending legs for supporting the golf putter at an even level so as to zero the putter level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Louis Amato
  • Patent number: 5810673
    Abstract: A golf-swing training apparatus includes a base, a rotator disk for receiving one foot of a user, and means for anchoring the apparatus to a playing surface. The rotator disk is pivotably coupled to the base by a screw. Friction reducing means is coupled between the rotator disk and the base to reduce rotational friction. Using the apparatus when making a golf swing, the user's foot will rotate on the rotator disk allowing the user to rotate her torso easily with minimal swaying. In addition, the user will be able to lift her heel while keeping the ball of her foot on the rotator disk. The position of the rotator disk can also be adjusted in relation to the position of the tee and the size of the mat. Preferably, a mat slip is utilized to securely anchor the golf swing apparatus to the playing surface of the practice mat without damaging the practice mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: David M. Castleberry
  • Patent number: 5651742
    Abstract: A golf ball placement device that is adapted to be mounted to a golfer's shoe for allowing the golfer to position a golf ball on a tee without bending over. The device includes a ball retaining member that has a top surface, a bottom surface, a front end and a rear end. Art elongated opening extends inwardly from the front end of the ball retaining member toward the rear end thereof. The ball placement device includes mating hook and loop type fasteners secured to the rear end of the device and the golfer's shoe in order to secure the golf ball placement device to the golf shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Edward V. Dickson
  • Patent number: 5564989
    Abstract: A sports training device particularly intended for use by golfers to teach the proper body rotation and weight shift during a golf swing. The device includes a pair of shoe inserts each having a tactile indicating member arranged in the heel area disposed toward the inner side of the insert. The insert may be covered or partially covered by a textured material. The tactile member may be a series of projections on a ring or disk or may be other shapes and forms such as integrally molded spikes or concentric rings. The golfer will be provided a positive sense or feeling as weight is applied to the inserts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventor: Erling A. Larsen