Abstract: A performance monitoring system includes a pitching mound, one or more processors, and a memory. The pitching mound includes a piezoelectric film associated with a pitching rubber, one or more rubber layers covering the piezoelectric film, a transmitter electrically coupled to the piezoelectric film, and a power source powering an amplifier associated with the piezoelectric film. The piezoelectric film generates electrical signals in response to pressure exerted on the pitching rubber. The processors are configured to receive the electrical signals generated by the piezoelectric film and transmitted by the transmitter. The processor is configured to analyze the received electrical signals based on training data using machine learning algorithms to determine at least one performance characteristic of the pitcher. The processors are configured to display on a display device the determined at least one performance characteristic in real-time.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a portable golf swing plane training device having a base support, alignment rods, and a golf club insert member for receiving a golf club. The golf club, when applied to the golf club insert member, acts as a weight and support member to stabilize and firmly hold the portable golf swing plane training device to a golf playing surface.

Abstract: The present invention is a training apparatus and method-of-use for developing a hockey player's stick handling techniques to carry the puck forward and perform a variety of shots. The apparatus includes a collapsible platform which is utilized by athletes and trainers that includes drills and guides that promote stickhandling skills, teach proper techniques in four different categories of shooting, and encourage correct posture for skating and stickhandling motion.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is automated guidance information regarding the stance or swing of golf player's as a function of each user's body type information, feet indicia, for indicating pre-determined positions on the ground to place the user's feet relative to one another; ball lines, and peg indicia, for guiding the movements of the user's body, or the user's golf club, relative to the peg indicia. Given the body type information of the user, body type specific information referencing a select body type specific feet indicia, a select body type specific ball line, or a select body type specific peg indicia is provided. Further disclosed are: (a) determining body type criteria information; (b) determining body type information using the body type criteria information; and (c) selecting from a plurality of body type specific information using the body type information.

Abstract: A golf training assembly has a plate structure configured for placement on a golf surface, such as a putting green. The training assembly has a mouth for receiving a rolling golf ball. The mouth guides the golf ball against a stop member for stopping and holding the golf ball in place allowing a golfer to practice putting.

Abstract: A golf swing guide tool is configured for use with a golf tee, and includes an elongated pointer body having a front end, a medial portion and a rear end, the pointer body having a longitudinal axis. The front end of the pointer body is tapered to a point at a tip portion thereof which is disposed on the longitudinal axis. The medial portion of the pointer body has a central hole formed therein which is aligned with the longitudinal axis, and which is configured to slidably receive a shaft portion of a golf tee therein to form a working configuration in which the tee is oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pointer body. A method of using the golf swing guide tool is also described.

Abstract: A shoulder motion exercise device and method of use having a retainer, a connector, an extender, and a slider. When the user mimics a golf swing, the device aids in the stretching and exercise of at least a shoulder and a portion of the torso.

Abstract: An elongate substrate strip of durable material with a top side having a linear arrangement of equally spaced circles each representing a regulation size golf ball; the circles being numbered consecutively for use as a reference to indicate ball position and/or foot position. The linear strip may be formed in two segments that are pivotally attached to one another to allow for pivotal swinging movement of one segment relative to the other so that the segments can be extended to a straight linear configuration, a right angle (90 degree) configuration and to a collapsed low profile configuration. The device provides an aid for proper target alignment, body and feet alignment and ball alignment when practicing various golf shots with all types of clubs including woods, short/mid/long irons, wedges and putter. The device also serves as a reference for analyzing divots (i.e., fat, thin, pull, hook) after each practice golf shot.

Abstract: A system for a racket comprises an inertial sensor for coupling to the racket, a processor connected to the inertial sensor, and a memory device connected to the processor. The inertial sensor includes an accelerometer array with three degrees of freedom in acceleration and a gyro array with three degrees of freedom in rotation. The processor is configured to generate stroke profiles describing acceleration and rotation of the racket based on signals from the accelerometer and the gyro arrays, and the memory device is configured to store the stroke profiles.

Abstract: A golf swing alignment and swing-aiming device is disclosed. An embodiment of the device includes a main elongated member, an aim arm that is pivotally connected to the main elongated member, an aiming strip that is pivotally connected to the aim arm, and a ball positioning arm that is pivotally connected to the main member at a location near the second end of the main member. The device collapses so that it can fit inside a club sheath in a golf bag, and can be unfolded to allow the user to position the aiming strip in a parallel arrangement with the main member, so that the aiming strip can be used to guide the swing of a golf club while positioning one's feet along the main member.

Abstract: A shoulder motion exercise device and method of use having a retainer, a connector, an extender, and a slider. The extender is gripped in one hand, the slider, which is in slidable engagement with the extender, is held in the other, and the slider is attached to the retainer at, or above, the elbow of an intended user. When the user mimics a golf swing, the device aids in the stretching and exercise of at least a shoulder and a portion of the torso.

Abstract: A device for practicing putting of a golf ball includes: an elongate base with opposed first and second ends and an upper surface; an elongate rail with an upper surface and opposed first and second ends, the rail mounted to the base such that the upper surface of the rail is positioned above and generally parallel with the upper surface of the base; a locating feature positioned adjacent the first end of the rail, the locating feature configured to provide a resting place for a golf ball; and a target area positioned near the second end of the base panel located adjacent the second end of the rail. Such a device can provide immediate and accurate feedback on putting errors committed by the user.

Abstract: A putting alignment device includes a base, a cap mounted to the base for rotation with respect to the base, and alignment indicia on the cap which indicates a target line for putting a golf ball. A remote control unit is coupled in communication to the base to issue instructions to the base. The device includes drive means in the base which rotate the cap with respect to the base in response to a signal communicated from the remote control unit, so as to move the alignment indicia according to instructions carried in the signal from the remote control unit.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a golf training apparatus comprising: a motion-generating (MG) device comprising an arcuate swinging arm and a swinging cart secured to the swinging art, wherein the swinging arm rotates around a swing axis that defines a path generally perpendicular to a swing plane, a hip control device configured to cooperate with a trainee and configured to change a position of a trainee's hips as the swinging arm swings the grip portion of the golf club, one or more motors cooperated with the swinging arm to cause the swinging arm to rotate about the swing axis; and a computer system communicationally coupled with the one or more motors and configured to control the one or more motors to swing the swinging arm.

Abstract: A system for a player to play golf includes a member having a surface. A colored area is disposed on the surface of the member, the colored area is yellow which when stared at will produce a violet afterimage. The member or a printed representation thereof is placed on and article of wearing apparel worn by the player so that the player can see the colored area. Prior to hitting a golf ball, the player stares at the colored area for a few seconds, closes his/her eyes and sees the violet afterimage, then opens his/her eyes. The player then hits the golf ball.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of systems and methods related to a golf alignment aid that focuses on providing repeatable ball positions for creating a more consistent, predictable, and solid golf shot. The golf alignment aid may comprise a planar element comprising a grid and a set of telescopic arms moveably attached to the planar element. The set of telescopic arms are configured to extend outwardly from the planar element along the longitudinal axis of the planar element.

Abstract: A practice aid for use by a golfer practicing hitting a golf ball (B) out of a sand trap. A disc (D) of predetermined diameter is placed on the top of the sand (S) with its leading edge either touching the underside of the golf ball or resting slightly behind it. When practicing a bunker shot, the golfer swings their club so it enters the sand immediately behind the trailing edge of the disc and passes through the sand beneath both the disc and the golf ball. The force imparted to the sand by the club causes the ball to fly out of the bunker on a cushion of sand. The disc provides an indication to the golfer as to how far behind the golf ball their club should enter the sand in order to hit the golf ball out of the sand trap.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a golf ball having multiple indicia for aiding a golfer in positioning the golf ball with the intended ball path. In one embodiment, the golf ball has at least three distinct primary indicia aligned on the golf ball within a quarter of the circumference of the golf ball. The primary indicia includes a first primary indicia which is spaced a first distance from a second primary indicia, and a third primary indicia which is spaced a second distance from the second primary indicia. In an embodiment, the two distances are different. In another embodiment the distances are the same. Other versions have supplemental indicia positioned between the primary indicia and/or can be positioned proximate the first and/or third primary indicia. The supplemental indicia are preferably lighter in color intensity than the primary indicia so that the primary indicia is more readily visible to a golfer when the golfer is ready to putt.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for training golf swings. A device may be provided with a visual guide that assists golfers with practicing different shot types. The visual guide may include one or more shot arrow and corresponding clubface lines for different types of shots. The visual guide may also include one or more alignment indicators which may be used by the golfer to orient the golfer's stance. The device may be a portable mat, and its position may be adjustable to orient the mat for different shot types.

Abstract: A golf swing stance trainer has a hub and a central telescoping arm connected to the hub. Side telescoping arms are connected to the hub for swinging outward to positions perpendicular to the central arm. The hub has ground-engaging cleats on a lower surface. The central arm is selectively extended outward for position with respect to a ball position. The side arms are selectively extended outward to indicate desired foot positions. The central arm has an extension with a pivot for sliding outward from the central arm for training position and direction of a golf ball and direction and extent of a swing. Arm extensions are related to an individual user and club selection. The arms are telescoped inward and the side arms are swung inward for carrying. The hub includes a hinge rod with a central receive through which a connected on the central arm slides.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a golf shot set up and aiming aid. The aid comprises a direction sensing means (104) and at least one illumination means (106), whereby the illumination means is capable of projecting a set-up line (200, 202) and aiming line (230, 204) on a playing surface for the user, and, the illumination means is rotatable about a substantially vertical axis (110) in response to feedback from the direction sensing means. In this manner, after acquisition of an intended target by the user along an imaginary target line, the direction sensing means can be used to detect if the aid is moved or rotated in such a manner as to no longer face towards the intended target. If so, the illumination device which is rotatable will be turned to account for any rotation imparted to the aid. Therefore, once the target has been acquired, the user can place the aid onto the ground without worrying about rotating the aid inadvertently as the aid is placed on the ground.

Abstract: The present invention is a golf training aid designed to completely and effectively instruct a golfer how to setup for a successful golf shot. The golf training aid includes a substrate having a predetermined geometrical shape, preferably rectangular, having visual indices, preferably imprinted on a top surface of the substrate, to aid the golfer in addressing a golf ball or setting up to execute a golf shot. The visual indices include a plurality of club head/ball alignment indices, a hand alignment indicator, a feet alignment indicator, an eye alignment indicator, a stance width indicator, and a directional indicator.

Abstract: The present invention is a golf swing training aid having a takeaway bar, a spine angle alignment guide, a position “A” bar, and a hands placement guide. The takeaway bar may be connected adjacent an end of the spine alignment guide. The apparatus is adjustable, and is suitable for practicing with every club in the bag, from the driver to the putter to improve distance and consistency. The apparatus may be used on the ground or a mat at a driving range.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a golf shot set up and aiming aid. The aid comprises a direction sensing means (104) and at least one illumination means (106), whereby the illumination means is capable of projecting a set-up line (200, 202) and aiming line (230, 204) on a playing surface for the user, and, the illumination means is rotatable about a substantially vertical axis (110) in response to feedback from the direction sensing means. In this manner, after acquisition of an intended target by the user along an imaginary target line, the direction sensing means can be used to detect if the aid is moved or rotated in such a manner as to no longer face towards the intended target. If so, the illumination device which is rotatable will be turned to account for any rotation imparted to the aid. Therefore, once the target has been acquired, the user can place the aid onto the ground without worrying about rotating the aid inadvertently as the aid is placed on the ground.

Abstract: A template for teaching a golfer a proper swing includes a false target disposed on a first portion of the template for positioning a golfer at a start of teaching a proper swing. A real target for being struck by the golfer during teaching is not disposed on the first portion of the template. A first marking is disposed on the first portion of the template, the first marking being disposed behind the false target and indicating a position for placing the real target off of the first portion of the template.

Abstract: The present invention is a golf training aid designed to completely and effectively instruct a golfer how to setup for a successful golf shot. The golf training aid includes a substrate having a predetermined geometrical shape, preferably rectangular, having visual indices, preferably imprinted on a top surface of the substrate, to aid the golfer in addressing a golf ball or setting up to execute a golf shot. The visual indices include a plurality of club head/ball alignment indices, a hand alignment indicator, a feet alignment indicator, an eye alignment indicator, a stance width indicator, and a directional indicator.

Abstract: The present invention is a golf training aid designed to completely and effectively instruct a golfer how to setup for a successful golf shot. The golf training aid includes a substrate having a predetermined geometrical shape, preferably rectangular, having visual indices, preferably imprinted on a top surface of the substrate, to aid the golfer in addressing a golf ball or setting up to execute a golf shot. The visual indices include a plurality of club head/ball alignment indices, a hand alignment indicator, a feet alignment indicator, an eye alignment indicator, a stance width indicator, and a directional indicator.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a golf swing training device that gives real-time visual feedback for obtaining correct golf club swing mechanics. Features and implementations include: (1) a number of alignment indicators such as disks or blocks capable of lying flat on the ground or a surface; (2) a cable, string, rope, or chain that connects the alignment indicators and that the alignment indicators are spaced along; (3) a positioning guide placed on the ground or a surface that indicates proper placement of the connected alignment indicators in order to create the proper arc shape of the connected alignment indicators; and (4) alignment markers on each alignment indicator to show the proper angle the golf club face should have at different points during a swing.

Abstract: A golf training aid has an elongated alignment guide. A plurality of club markings extends along a first edge of the guide. The club markings indicate the position of a golf ball along the guide when the ball is struck with a club corresponding to the marking. The club markings include markings for drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, irons and wedges. Sets of paired foot markings extend along the second edge. The paired foot markings are centered on one of the club markings and are equally spaced along the length of the guide from the centered club marking, with each pair of foot markings being spaced apart by a fixed distance larger than the prior pair.

Abstract: A golf accessory for determining a gimme status of a golf putt in the form of a device that includes areas and/or indicia relating to at least two preselected conditions and by which a gimme status of a golf putt may be determined. A method of using the device is disclosed in which the device permits the user to determine whether or not a golf ball is close enough to a hole to warrant a concession of a golf putt under at least one of the at least two preselected conditions.

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.

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.

Abstract: A golf training aid with indicia that directs a golfer to the proper address and impact positions for more accurate shots. The training mat allows a user to learn and develop muscle memory to the basics of how to compress a golf ball. In some of its many embodiments, the present general inventive concept comprises a golf practice mat/towel that provides indicia showing the proper foot stance, ball position and the appropriate club shaft position with respect to different types of golf clubs.

Abstract: A golf swing training device including a mat having a contact plate disposed therein over which the golf club passes during correct ball contact and a plurality of apertures disposed at predetermined locations in the mat in which pegs are inserted to arrange a desired swing path for a right-handed or left-handed golfer's club swing for either the woods and the driver or the irons. An alignment tube, which is fixed and alternately telescopic, attached to a cylindrical female connector on either of the mat right and left sides and a T-shaped tube connector to which a pair of alignment rods is attached align the golfer's feet in a position parallel to the mat sides. An alignment arrow on the mat top surface provides a visual cue for a correct forward follow through. Stakes driven through holes in the mat secure the mat to a ground surface for outdoor use.

Abstract: In accordance with the preferred embodiment and alternative embodiments described are embodiments of a system and method that automatically grading a golf swing, by grading components of a golf swing, relative to a perfect swing.

Abstract: A golf swing training aid in the form of a modified golf tee including an indicator for indicating the target line from the tee to the target and a second indicator for indicating the preferred swing path of a golf club for moving the ball toward the target line and in the direction of the target.

Abstract: A method of golf instruction utilizing a schematic represented by a plurality of vertical, diagonal and circular lines which demonstrate a preferred golf swing. A video recorder, processor and monitor can be used to record the golf swing of a student aligned within the schematic. Corrections to the students swing can be made based on the deviation from the schematic. Additionally, the flight path of the ball can be determined based upon the deviation from the schematic and the adjusted flight path can be displayed.

Abstract: A golf swing training device is provided. The device may have a rack providing support for the device. A swing motion track may be attached to the rack. The swing motion track may guide a golf club in a proper swing motion when swung by a user. The track may have a backswing motion portion, and a downswing motion portion different from the backswing motion portion. A club assembly may attach the golf club head to the swing motion track. The assembly may be attached to the track at one end and movable along the track.

Abstract: A collapsible putting practice apparatus designed to perfect a golfer's putting stroke, while being easily collapsible and portable. The collapsible putting apparatus incorporates multiple user positions, and includes design elements to conform the user's putting stroke to the apparatus's arced features.

Abstract: A golf training system includes a wedge training aid adapted to help the user control the hitting range of each wedge accurately so that the user can drive the ball to the green easily for putting into the hole when playing a golf game at a golf course. The golf training system further includes a putting green training aid, a mat arranged between the wedge training aid and the putting green training aid, a ball collector arranged at the rear side of the wedge training aid, a track connected between the putting green training aid and the ball collector, and a guard net mounted at the putting green training aid. Thus, each ball been hit onto the putting green training aid or intercepted by the guard net can be collected by the ball collector for a next hitting practice.

Abstract: A portable putting practice system for users of all ages and skill levels, whereby the system enables a user to increase putting accuracy, improve range of motion for a putting swing, and develop consistent putting backswings of varying extensions corresponding to desired target distances.

Abstract: A golf swing instruction tool for positioning a golfer in accordance with a golf schematic representing a preferred golf swing includes an elongated shaft having a plurality of sides, a series of ball position circles, a pair of stance lines, a plurality of posture sight lines, a takeaway sight line, a downswing sight line, and a follow through sight line.

Abstract: A portable, expandable golf training device that can be placed on the ground to provide alignment. The present invention can supply a plurality of light beams produced by lasers or other light sources or a plurality of extendable tapes or tubes or rods to provide alignment both in the direction of play and perpendicular to it. The device can be used by placing it on the ground in front of the golfer (between the golfer's feet and the ball. Two lines can project outward perpendicular to the direction of play, and two or four lines can project into and away from the direction of play. These lines provide alignment for the golfer. The tapes can be a flat, elongated flexible tape similar to a measuring tape. The rods or tubes can be extendable and/or telescoping.

Abstract: Described is a portable and intuitive golf swing improvement device for indicating the proper shift of a golfer's body weight to the front foot during a down swing. More specifically, the swing improvement device measures the shift of the golfer's body weight during a golf swing and indicates when such shift is in accordance with a technically sound swing. Additionally, the swing improvement device is self-sufficient and portable such that the device is deployable almost anywhere. The swing improvement device also provides swing analysis in a manner that is immediately understandable to the golfer.

Abstract: A golf training aid having an alignment rod rotatably mounted to an elongated rail. The rail is pointed directly at the target while the rod is rotated and positioned along the rail pointing directly to the ball.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a golf swing training device that gives real-time visual feedback for obtaining correct golf club swing mechanics. Features and implementations include: (1) a number of alignment indicators such as disks or blocks capable of lying flat on the ground or a surface; (2) a cable, string, rope, or chain that connects the alignment indicators and that the alignment indicators are spaced along; (3) a positioning guide placed on the ground or a surface that indicates proper placement of the connected alignment indicators in order to create the proper arc shape of the connected alignment indicators; and (4) alignment markers on each alignment indicator to show the proper angle the golf club face should have at different points during a swing.

Abstract: A golfing training system consists of a trace mat made of non-resilient fiber material that shows the path of a golf club head brushed across it. The trace mat is mounted in a rectangular rubber frame with a top surface of artificial grass. Two string spools are mounted under the trace mat. A string alignment plate can be set to a training angle, then the trace mat is put in place over the alignment plate. Two alignment strings can be laid out. Then the player takes his swing, recording the club head path on the trace mat in relation to his two alignment strings.

Abstract: A golf swing stance trainer has a hub and a central telescoping arm connected to the hub. Side telescoping arms are connected to the hub for swinging outward to positions perpendicular to the central arm. The hub has ground-engaging cleats on a lower surface. The central arm is selectively extended outward for position with respect to a ball position. The side arms are selectively extended outward to indicate desired foot positions. Arm extensions are related to an individual user and club selection. The arms are telescoped inward and the side arms are swung inward for carrying. The hub includes a hinge rod with a central receive through which a connected on the central arm slides. The hinge rod has slots and holes through the slots at opposite ends. Side arm ends have complementary holes. Pins or screws extend through the holes, and washers allow turning the arms on the pins.

Abstract: A golf aid (10) comprising an elongate alignment member (12) provided with at least one through-hole (16) for receiving a golf tee. The golf aid can provide a golfer who is looking down at the ball (30) to ensure the club head (32) is correctly addressing the ball with an indication of the line along which the ball is intended to travel.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for correcting a golf pose, the apparatus including: a supporting member formed to be adjustable in length and angle; a leg member installed at one end part of the supporting member and supported on a ground; and an interfering member formed retractably in a lengthwise direction and detachably installed to the other end part of the supporting member through a detachable member.