Abstract: A ball travel-modifying device comprising a sail and a strikeable object modifies a travel distance and a rate of travel of a struck or thrown object and returns the strikeable object to an initial rest position after each hit or throw. The shape of the sail is triangular, quadrilateral, or other shapes and may be symmetric or asymmetric. The sail may be formed with a flat or curved surface and straight or curved edges. Multiple sails of the same or varying size and shape may be slidably adjusted along a suspension line. One or more apertures may be formed in the sail to modify a speed or a direction of a moving strikeable object. An adjustable aperture permits adaptation to various strikeable objects having a variety of sizes and weights or to cause a strikeable object to move in a preferred direction or with a preferred rate of travel.

Abstract: A sports training device may take the place of cones to create the illusion of defenders and/or obstacles. The sports training device may be collapsible so that it is easy to transport and store when it is not in use. The sports training device may be formed as a cylindrical structure having a top portion formed of a taut material with a steel wire frame and a bottom portion attached to a weighted base. The sports training device also may include straps that may secure the sports training device when it is in a collapsed state. The sports training device may further include one or more handles to facilitate transport of the sports training device.

Abstract: A batting swing training device is provided to train a batter in bat and ball sports to properly swing a bat. The device includes three weighted portions, one near the knob of the bat, one near the distal end of the bat, and one near the center of the bat. The weights near the knob and center of the bat force the batter to lead the swing with the knob. The weight near the distal end of the bat trains the batter to properly snap the bat through or release the bat at the time of contact. Each weighted portion may include cavities to accept the weights. The handle may have an oval-shaped cross-section to reinforce the proper grip and knuckle alignment and a plurality of finger grooves, which also reinforce the proper grip and knuckle alignment.

Abstract: A training device is disclosed that has a depressable element and an indicator element that provides a perceivable indication, for example an audible alarm, to a user when an amount of force being applied to the training device along the major axis of the training device is less than a desired amount of depressing force. In some embodiments, the training device is in the shape of a prolate sphere and approximates the size and shape of a ball typically used in American football. The training device may be configured so that no perceivable indication is provided while either little to no force is being applied to the training device along its major axis or while an adequate amount of force is being applied to the training device along the major axis thereof.

Abstract: A system and method for pitching balls, particularly footballs and other football-shaped balls. The system and method are flexibly designed to simulate different types of pitches including but not limited to passes, punts, kick-offs and snaps. A cradle for use in the system and method holds the ball in any one of a number of positions such that when it is fed into the system, the ball is propelled to simulate a different type of pitch. The apparatus and system for pitching balls includes a support for a ball throwing head, two opposing variable speed motor powered wheels that can be tilted in relation to each other to control the spin and distance, a slide configured to present the ball on the cradle into the wheels at different angles to provide right or left handed spirals and end over end pitches, and adjustments for height and horizontal pivot. A removable throwing head allows balls to be pitched from different heights from ground level to an upright arm motion to simulate different types of pitches.

Abstract: A sports ball training assembly for repetitively practicing sporting techniques in a small area, such as, hitting a golf ball, kicking a soccer ball, or batting a baseball. A telescoping arm attaches to the ball, extending and retracting to create different positions to strike the ball. A spring attaches to the telescoping arm. The spring has sufficient elasticity to return the ball to equilibrium position after the ball is propelled forward. The elasticity of the spring and the elevation of the ball can be adjusted by enclosing various sections of the spring with a tube that slides along the longitudinal axis of the spring. As the rigid tube moves along the spring, the spring's characteristics change. A second spring portion enhances stability and control of the ball, and allows the ball to return to the user. A base and a base shaft provide structure to the assembly.

Abstract: A training device providing positive feedback teaching the proper execution of a technique such as shooting a basketball, producing a proper golf swing as well as a proper baseball or softball swing. A flexible band of material encircles a portion of each of an individual's arms. Each of the bands includes a V-shaped arm attached to the band having a free end. Located at the free end of each of the V-shaped arms is a magnetic device in the form of a magnet or ferromagnetic body. The free end of both of the arms will remained attached to one another via magnetic attraction when the particular sports technique is properly practiced. However, improper practice of that particular sports technique results in the free ends becoming disengaged from one another.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide apparatuses configured for improving a ball throwing technique of a user thereof. The apparatuses generally comprise one or more body portions configured to at least partially surround at least a first portion of an arm of the user, and one or more flexible portions configured to at least partially surround and secure at least a second portion of the arm of the user, the second portion being oppositely positioned relative to the first portion. The apparatuses may further comprise at least one connector element configured to selectively attach the one or more flexible portions to the one or more body portions. Various embodiments still further incorporate a wedge portion that creates a gap between a user's palm and the ball being thrown. Still other embodiments comprise extension and rotation mechanisms for apparatus adjustments. Methods of using the various apparatuses are also provided.

Abstract: A device to improve the swing of a baseball player is provided. The device is a flexible removable cone which is secured to the exterior surface of a baseball bat. The removable cone may have a temporary adhesive on the bottom which prevents the cone from sliding with respect to the bat. The removable cone has a plurality of colored zones which allows the user and/or a trainer to determine precisely where on the bat a ball is struck. The removable cone may have a carbon layer which allows the user to not only see exactly where on the bat the ball was struck, but to keep a record of the same.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for training a quarterback in skills necessary for the game of American football. The invention comprises a snap deck, targets, and blitz sticks, which all stand freely. The snap deck is a station that allows the user to create or modify play sequences, which are defined by selecting certain targets and blitz sticks to illuminate at certain times. The interface also includes displays showing session statistics. A play is initiated by removing the football from a holder on the snap deck. The targets illuminate according to the programmed play, representing open receivers, to which the user attempts to complete a pass. The blitz sticks illuminate according to the programmed play, signaling a blitz to the user, who reacts accordingly while attempting to complete a pass. If a successful pass is not completed within the time limit, all targets illuminate red and an alarm sounds.

Abstract: A training apparatus for use on a training surface is disclosed. The training apparatus includes a sport-projectile stopping member and an elongated body substantially transverse to the sport-projectile stopping member. The elongated body has a first section, a second section, and a transition section between the first and second sections. A portion of the first section is positioned on the sport-projectile stopping member, and the first section is sized such that the sport-projection stopping member, the first section, the training surface and the transition section define an orifice through which a sport-projectile can pass through.

Abstract: A batting tee system includes a batting tee assembly that may be used with conventional balls or with the ball described as an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, the batting tee assembly may be used with a netting system that provides feedback to a batter based on a trajectory of the ball after it has been struck by a bat and leaves the batting tee assembly. In one embodiment, the batting tee assembly includes a support base coupled to a swing arm, which in turn is coupled to an adjustable-height batting tee. The batting tee system may be configured for both left and right handed batters and also placed in a portable or storable configuration.

Abstract: A bunt training device includes a shield with opposite ends which is mounted to a baseball or softball bat using one or more straps. The device is mounted on the bat in a position which allows a batter to slide his or her top hand to the end of the device adjacent the barrel of the bat for bunting practice. The shield protects the batter's top hand from a pitched ball and thereby eliminates or reduces the fear a batter may have when bunting. The device may be formed as a separate shield to be mounted on a conventional bat, or the shield and bat can be formed as a single unit for bunting practice.

Abstract: An athletic paddle training apparatus 10 includes an elongate handle portion 20, a coupling region 30 at a distal end 22 of the paddle portion, and a game play head 40 operatively coupled with the handle portion 20 at the coupling region 30. The elongate handle portion is configured to be gripped by an associated user. The game play head 40 has first 46 and second 48 game play regions on opposite first 42 and second 44 sides thereof. The first game play region 46 defines a substantially planar first game play surface 56 on the first side 42 and the second game play region 48 defines a substantially spherical second game play surface 58 on the second side 44 of the game play head 40. In an example embodiment, the second game play surface 58 has a likeness of a #5 soccer ball.

Abstract: A hitting apparatus is provided, including a supporting unit, at least a linking unit, and an attaching device. The apparatus includes foldable supporting legs, an adjustable supporting rod, an adjustable hanging arm, an adjustable extension arm, connection elements, attaching elements and attaching ball. The adjustable extension arm is flexible, which can be adjusted at any direction by hand, or foreign force. The connections between connection elements are detachable and releasable upon hit by bat or other subjects. The hanging arm is engaged to the top of supporting rod, and adjustable in length and angles and easy to be detached from the support rod to become a hand held hitting training apparatus. The attaching parts of hook/loop, magnets, adhesive or rubbers holding the ball with minimum detaching releasable force required, The present invention can enhance the focus of the batter on the ball and have a clear hit on the ball.

Abstract: The reconfigurable sports training device includes a main base frame, a plurality of primary attachment components, a plurality of secondary attachment components, and a plurality of accessories so that one or more of the attachment components and accessories can be selectively coupled to the main base frame to form a user-defined sports training device. The main base frame includes a movable rack having a plurality of shelves for storing balls thereon and hollow corner posts. Each corner post has an attachment fixture disposed at the top to enable selective coupling of the attachment components and accessories in various combinations. When assembled, the primary and secondary attachment components form a framework to which the accessories can be mounted.

Abstract: A hockey-stickhandling-tool, methods of use, and a system for improving a player's hockey stickhandling strength and/or speed are described and disclosed. The hockey-stickhandling-tool may comprise: a puck-receiver and a stick-attachment-means. The puck-receiver may be sized to removably hold the at least one hockey-puck, by the puck-receiver providing at least one wall to partially enclose the at least one hockey-puck. The stick-attachment-means may be configured to removably attach to the hockey-stick. The puck-receiver and the stick-attachment-means may attached to each other such that use of the puck-receiver does not interfere with the stick-attachment-means and use of the stick-attachment-means does not interfere with the puck-receiver.

Abstract: Systems and methods for training and improving overhand throwing. A first embodiment of a system includes at least one upper arm that extends from a central body. A pathway marked by indicia extends down the upper arm curving to indicate the correct motion for a desired overhand throw. A flexible slap card may be located along the pathway for use in a first training exercise. The body may include a hole for positioned and sized for use as a target for a second training exercise. Support structures for maintaining the system in a desired position may be included. Methods for training with overhand throwing exercises using the systems are also included.

Abstract: A warm-up and training bat includes a tubular shell with a handle section, a barrel section, and a tapered section connecting the handle section with the barrel section. The handle is attached at an end of the handle section of the bat. An end cap is attached at an end of the barrel section of the bat. A sliding weight mechanism is entirely contained within a pipe disposed within the barrel section of the bat. The sliding weight mechanism can be held in place at an end of the pipe proximate the handle. When a centripetal force is applied during a swing, the sliding weight mechanism moves to a distal end of the pipe. The weight may make a sound or the user may feel the weight shift, helping them perfect their swing.

Abstract: We disclose an apparatus for improving passing skills in soccer, consisting of one or more triangles that can be placed on the ground to demarcate regions and boundaries on a playing field within which player movement is constrained or otherwise guided. The triangle edges are made from a flexible or extensible material and are attached at the triangle vertices by some type of joining device. The triangles can be placed on any surface suitable for soccer and held in place with stakes or other means. Multiple triangles can be placed on the ground to create a variety of demarcated regions and boundaries. This apparatus can be used for basic practice or to play various skill-enhancing games in which the ball is passed into and out of, or between, a triangle or a set of triangles.

Abstract: A portable training apparatus for assisting a user in developing ball batting skills is provided for use by either right or left handed batters. The apparatus releasably attaches to an existing structure, such as a chain-link fence. A post has a foot and a plurality of stabilizing members for attaching the post to a fence. A rotational means supplies the user a ball to hit.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the first time a hitting device having a plural ended pedestal. The plural ended pedestal includes at least one end having a pedestal for supporting objects and at least one end having a smaller pedestal for supporting smaller objects.

Abstract: A sports training device is provided that includes a housing. The housing has a size, shape and configuration that mimics the size, shape and configuration of a sports equipment member such as a baseball or football. A sensor is provided for sensing an impact on the sports training device and a signaling device is in communication with the sensor for selectively emitting and not emitting the human detectable display in response to an impact sensed by the sensor. A timer is provided that is in communication with the sensor and the signaling device for controlling the timing of the signaling device.

Abstract: An electronic tracking and coaching system adapted for use in training for various sports is provided. The present invention includes a sports ball that contains a plurality of sensors, a wireless transceiver, a storage medium adapted to store voice commands or noises to be played upon the occurrence of a pre-determined event, and a speaker. The ball's sensors are adapted to monitor the movement of the ball, the level and direction of force applied to the ball, and other such variables relevant to playing a sport with a ball. The device further includes a monitoring apparatus that is worn by the user and tracks all of his or her movement and stores that movement data for later access. The voice commands of the ball provide coaching direction to the user and the user can upload the stored data to data visualization software to precisely monitor his or her actions.

Abstract: A sports training system having at least two target stations, each target station having a target support structure configured to support a target in a stationary position above a playing field, at least one light attached to the target in a vicinity of a periphery of the target, a target control module functionally connected to the target light, an activation control module located remotely from the target stations and in wireless communication with the target control module. The activation control module and the target control modules are configured and programmed so that activating a button on the activation control module results in activating a randomly selected target light on a randomly selected target station.

Abstract: Goal shot training systems and devices comprise a training covering having a top edge, a bottom edge, and side edges. The devices are configured to obscure a net of a goal, and the covering is composed of a knit material defining multiple openings such that air passes through the covering. The covering material creates negative viewing space by obscuring visual access behind the training covering and forms at least one user-configurable opening that allows visual access of positive viewing space including a portion of the net of the goal when the covering is affixed to the goal. A user may configure the covering to practice shots originating from different positions on a playing area by adjusting the location of the covering relative to the net of the goal.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the first time a swing trainer having a sheath with a core end and a protective end, the core end of the sheath has a cover attached.

Abstract: A method and system is provided for training athletes using films or videotapes of game situations so that a player's reaction can be applied to such situations. The videos are taken from the player's eye-level perspectives on the field or court. The method and system can be used for various sports, including basketball, football, baseball, hockey, soccer, volleyball, wrestling, and any other sport, particularly team sports. Using this system and method of the present invention will enhance and expedite training of athletes.

Abstract: A sporting ball training system and method. The sports training system and methods include a rod member, with one end attached to a handle for gripping. The other end is attached to one end of a guide member; the other end of the guide being attached to a ball that creates a tension during a simulated throw.

Abstract: A device (1) for ball-throwing training has a base (4) and at least two vertical guide posts (30, 31) longitudinally adjusted relative to each other. One end of one of the guide posts (30) is positioned at the base (4) and a distal end of another guide post (31) is positioned at the spacer element (35). A covering surface (2) is fixed to the spacer element (35) so as to at least partially obscure the view of a throwing target, and has an extendible screen (20) and a stretch frame (23). The spacer element (35) is arranged, on the side of the guide post (31) that lies opposite the stand base, in such a manner that the covering surface (2) normally is arranged at right angles to the spacer element (35). In that position, the ground projection areas of covering surface (2) and stand base (4) do not overlap.

Abstract: A training device to aid improving proper form and measuring directional accuracy when performing a training kicking. The device includes a base and a ball holder assembly coupled to the base. The ball holder assembly is configured to receive an attachable ball used for performing simulation kicks. A direction pointer is coupled either the ball holder assembly or the ball and is spaced from a direction template that is used to indicate a relative accuracy of the simulation kick. The device also includes a brake assembly that receives the direction pointer during the training kick to bring the ball holder assembly and the ball to a complete stop.

Abstract: A ball including a core, at least one layer of yarn surrounding the core, a cover assembly comprising panels joined by stitching and surrounding the at least one layer of yarn, a sensor to sense motion of the ball, a data output device carried by the ball and in communication with the sensor, and a light emitter coupled to the sensor.

Abstract: A system and method for pitching balls, particularly round balls such as soccer balls. The system and method are flexibly designed to simulate different types of pitches including but not limited to kicks, throws, and headers. A main frame has a frame with a front panel, a rear panel and a top panel. A tubular chute is rotatably mounted in the interior portion of the main frame with a set of bearings. A pair of opposing ball throwing wheels are fitted to the rotatable tubular chute for launching the ball from the chute. Each wheel is driven by a variable speed motor that is controlled by a variable switch mounted to the main frame. A pair of caddy wheels is attached to the main frame for portability of the apparatus, along with a rear support having an adjustable extension to vary the height and angle of the rotatable tubular chute to adjust the trajectory of the ball. A ball feed chute is mounted to the main frame onto which balls are loaded to be pitched.

Abstract: An improved practice net includes a net body comprising a bottom net and a side net having a bottom connecting with the bottom net, wherein the side net has a sleeve portion at a central region of each of two lateral sides of the side net and at a central region of a back side of the side net, wherein the net body has a fastener at an end of each of the sleeve portions; three supporting rods each comprising multiple short rods connected in series with each other or one another by means of an elastic rope so as to form a foldable rod, wherein the sleeve portions of the side net receive the supporting rods and the supporting rods each have an end secured to one of the fasteners; and a fork junction connecting with the other ends of the three supporting rods.

Abstract: A training aid (10) provides real-time biometric feedback for swung or linearly accelerated implements where the feedback is provided above a user adjustable threshold. The training aid (10) includes a two-part housing (12) and mounting means for releasably mounting the housing to an implement. A battery (16) is located in the housing (12) with a buzzer (22) connected to the battery (16) through an electrical circuit. A force activated switch (14) in the electrical circuit is activated to energize the buzzer (22) to sound in response to displacement of the training aid. The force activated switch (14) has a force threshold at which the force activated switch (14) is activated to energize the buzzer (22) to sound. The force activated switch (14) is configured so that the force threshold is user adjustable.

Abstract: A training apparatus for use in training football basic technique is disclosed, comprising one opening on each side of the apparatus being adapted to entrance angles for at least one rail guiding a ball in a loop from one opening to the other, and a wall adjustable in height as well as sideways is fixed between said openings, where both openings for the ball can be used as entrance/exit and vice versa.

Abstract: A method of operating a training device includes measuring a force applied to a training ball including an outer skin surrounding an inner bladder, determining if a force applied to the training ball decreases below a predetermined threshold, and indicating when the force applied to the training ball decreases below the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A swing trainer for exercise contains a handle having a first end and a second end relative to the first end, and the second end having a screw rod; a body having a first segment and a second segment relative to the first segment, the first segment fitting with the second end of the handle, and the screw rod being inserted into the body, between the first segment and the second segment being axially defined a defining rail; a counterweight block fixed in the body, the counterweight block having a first screw orifice defined thereon to screw with the screw rod of the handle and a slot axially defined on a side of an outer surface thereof to match with the defining rail of the body; a limiting member for limiting a connection of the handle and the body so that the handle moves relative to the body.

Abstract: A hand grip for an article of athletic equipment includes a generally cylindrical member open at opposite ends and having an inner diameter corresponding with an outer diameter of the article of athletic equipment. The member is formed of a flexible material and includes bevels at opposite ends and a textured outer surface arranged between the bevels to improve gripping of the member by the user. When arranged on the article of athletic equipment and adjustably positioned to a desired location, the member indicates to the user where the article is to be gripped, thereby teaching users of the article where to properly grip the equipment.

Abstract: Tackle practice apparatus (1) comprises an inflatable dummy element (3) in the shape of a person, and is releasably coupled to an inflatable ground engaging sled (4) from which a rope (5) extends to a harness (6) which is releasably coupleable to a person for pulling the tackle practice apparatus across a playing pitch for tackle practice by a player. The dummy element (3) comprises a base element (9) and an inflatable central bladder (7) extending upwardly from the base element (9). Two inflatable lower peripheral bladders (10) and two inflatable upper peripheral bladders (13) extend around the central bladder (7). The lower peripheral bladders (10) are located below a waist high position (14). The base element (9) comprises an inflatable first base bladder (15) which is inflatable with water to provide ballast to the dummy element (3), and an inflatable second base bladder (16) above the first base bladder (15) from which the central bladder (7) extends.

Abstract: A finger position training sports device can include a surface for receiving at least a portion of a hand, a plurality of capacitance sensor areas formed on the surface, and a capacitance sense circuit attached to the sports device. The capacitance sense circuit can have an input coupled to each capacitance sensor area and a processor circuit that activates an indication value when predetermined sensor areas indicate contact with different portions of at least one hand.

Abstract: A training and coordination device including a projectile member such as a ball or sack secured to an elastic string is described. The first end of the elastic string is attached to a location and the second end is connected to the projectile member. At least an end portion of the elastic string secure to the projectile member comprises multiple strands of an odd number. The multiple strands of the elastic string in conjunction with the elasticity of the string generate a random motion of the sack when the sack moves relative to the string.

Abstract: A system and method is provided whereby a user selectively actuates one or more illumination devices that are incorporated on the jersey of a wearer.

Abstract: The present application is directed to an athletic training tool. The athletic training tool includes a ball and an elongated member attached thereto, the elongated member is attached to the ball in a manner effective to maintain the center of gravity of the ball. The elongated member may be visually observable during use of the athletic training tool.

Abstract: A system (234, 220, 200) for monitoring movements of one or more users and/or one or more projectiles during sports activities performed by the one or more users is provided. The one or more projectiles (200) incorporate sensors (202, 204) for sensing movements of the one or more projectiles (200) during the sports activities. A user interface (220) is used for presenting automated sports training services. A data processing arrangement (234, 232, 220) is used for analysing one or more records of the movements of the one or more projectiles (200) against reference data, for providing the automated sports training services to the one or more users via the user interface (220).

Abstract: An adjustable batting apparatus contains a spring, at least one batting pad, a belt, and a rolling device. The spring is cylindrical and including a plurality of coils, a first segment, a second segment, and the first segment is fixed on a fixing face of a base. The at least one batting pad is connected with the second segment. The belt has a first end coupled with the second segment of the spring and has a second end. The rolling device has the second end of the belt rolled therearound, and a part of the belt extends out of the rolling device so as to form an extending section, such that the rolling device controls a length of the extending section of the belt so as to adjust a distance between the plurality of coils of the spring, hence a bending flexibility of the spring is adjusted.

Abstract: An object designed to improve the hand-eye coordination of a user. The object comprising a plurality of distinct zones with each zone have a unique indicator. In use a user will verbally identify the indicator prior to catching the object. Preferably, the object is a spherical shaped ball.

Abstract: A beam (20) has an inclined section (20B) and lesser-inclined or non-inclined-section (20A), the sections being supported and held at respective desired heights by cross-members (18) and posts (12). A carriage (30) rides on the lower flanges (20C1) of the beam so that a tackling dummy (36), preferably connected by a locking swivel (34) to the carriage, starts at an elevated point on the inclined section, and picks up speed and momentum as it moves along the beam to the other section, whereupon the dummy may be blocked or tackled by a player in training. The dummy may carry a football (35) for training a player to strip a ball from an opponent, may have a forwardly-projecting arm for training a player in situations where an opponent may use stiff-arm tactics, or both. Thus, the tackling dummy and system provide for realistic training for blocking and tackling.

Abstract: A pitching screen which provides a support structure having an arcuate support element which defines the boundary of the pitching screen and about which a ball can be pitched toward a pitching target.

Abstract: The present invention is a device to be used to practice hitting a ball. The device according to the invention suspends a ball at a variety of positions movable along three axes. The ball is removably connected to a flexible line having a first side magnet thereon. The user can select if the first-end magnet will rise or fall when the removable ball is struck and the first-end magnet is hit and/or swings a predetermined amount by using either a counterweight or a connector-magnet attached to an adjustment peg fixedly attached to a vertical support. When using the connector-magnet, the user can also select the amount of force required to dislodge the connector-magnet from a metallic component on the vertical support. The present invention is also the ball having metallic components inside which can be safely used with or without the device. The device is safer than existing devices and it produces better results due to its configuration.