Abstract: A push apparatus attachment can include a frame connecter for connecting at two points to a push apparatus frame; a height-adjustment frame pivotally connected to the frame connector; and a pivot assembly structured and configured to be gripped by a user's hands. The pivot assembly can include a swing bar pivotally connected to the height-adjustment frame and a grip bridge having at least two hand grips, one on each end of the grip bridge, the grip bridge being pivotally connected to the swing bar. The various pivot connections enable the device to accommodate users of different heights, enable the pivot assembly to remain parallel to the ground when the height-adjustment frame rotates relative to the frame connector, and enable free movement of the outer ends of the grip bridge in three dimensions to allow for a user to maintain natural running form while pushing the push apparatus.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise system includes a pool and an aquatic exercise apparatus positioned in the pool. The aquatic exercise apparatus includes a base and an aquatic exercise pole having a first substantially straight section, a second substantially straight section, and a curved transition section between the first substantially straight section and the second substantially straight section. The curved transition section includes a bend, and the aquatic exercise apparatus is positioned in the pool such that bend is above a surface of water in the pool.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to an assembly for engaging an end of a vaulting pole, wherein the assembly comprises a base section comprised of a frame configured to be at least partially recessedly installed in the ground. A platform is connected to the base and comprises a top surface comprising a planar surface configured to enable receipt of an end of a vaulting pole during a pole vault plant and at least one padding tray adjacent to a perimeter of the planar surface, which is configured to receive padding. Optionally, a collar of additional padding may be provided comprising at least one padding, wherein the collar is configured for operative coupling to the top surface of the platform.

Abstract: The competitor starting device in a sports competition is a starting block device. It includes one rear base for holding the device on a competition surface, a force detection sensor connected to a processing circuit, and two starting blocks for competitor's feet. Each block is adjustably mounted on a longitudinal bar, which is connected to the base and activates the sensor to determine a response time at the competition start. The longitudinal bar is connected to an H-shaped structure having two strips, spaced apart. The strip ends are rigidly connected to an immobile portion of the rear base, while a central bar connecting the strips is secured to the rear end of the longitudinal bar. When a force is applied to the block(s), the central bar is pushed in one direction via the bending of the strips to activate the sensor to determine a response time at the competition start.

Abstract: Folding hurdles are disclosed. Some example folding hurdles may include a generally horizontal bar. A first leg may be pivotably coupled to a first end of the generally horizontal bar. The first leg may include a generally horizontally extending first foot and/or may be pivotable between an erected position in which the first foot is oriented generally perpendicular to the generally horizontal bar and a folded position in which the first foot is substantially coplanar with the generally horizontal bar. A second leg may be pivotably coupled to a second end of the generally horizontal bar. The second leg may include a generally horizontally extending second foot and/or the second leg may be pivotable between an erected position in which the second foot is oriented generally perpendicular to the generally horizontal bar and a folded position in which the second foot is substantially coplanar with the generally horizontal bar.

Abstract: A single-handed overspeed trainer system that detachably tethers an athlete to a trainer through a substantially quiet, non-hook and loop material, release structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the athlete wears a belt with a substantially rigid loop extending therefrom. The trainer holds one end of a tether that contains a retractable pin toward its opposite end. The pin holds the rigid loop of the belt until the pin is retracted by the trainer, preferably when the tether's handle is released by the trainer.

Abstract: A training ladder formed of a plurality of substantially rigid polygon-shaped segments detachably secured together with segment connectors extending therebetween. The sides of each segment are substantially the same to allow the segment connector to join any sides between two adjacent segments. Accordingly, the path through the ladder can be varied. In one disclosed embodiment, the segments are octagon shaped and pivotally secured to the segment connectors, thereby allowing the ladder to collapse into a stack when not in use and allowing some of the segments to extend substantially vertically, thereby defining a hurdle or other possible vertical structure.

Abstract: A collapsible ladder for use primarily for athletic training and the like has a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid rungs secured with collapsible connectors to a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid spacers extending therebetween. In one disclosed embodiment, the collapsible connectors are strips of flexible material extending between the rungs and spacers. Another disclosed embodiment has a second set of rungs aligned substantially parallel to the plurality of spaced-apart rungs along a common central set of spacers. The collapsible connectors allow the ladder to be quickly and easily transitioned between an extended, operational position, and a collapsed, storage position.

Abstract: A system and method are provide for an obstacle course including first and second lanes associated with first and second difficulty ratings, respectively. The first lane includes a first plurality of obstacles associated with the first difficulty rating and the second lane includes a second plurality of obstacles associated with the second difficulty rating. The first difficulty rating indicates greater difficulty than the second difficulty rating.

Abstract: A safety collar for a vault box reduces the risk of catastrophic injury if the pole vaulter lands directly onto the vault box, but does not make it more difficult for the pole vaulter to plant the pole into the vault box. The safety collar overlies the vault box and an area to the rear and the sides of the vault box. The collar has a front, a rear, a left side, a right side, and an opening extending from the front to the rear that overlies the recess of the vault box. The collar also has a left wing extending downwardly against the left wall of the vault box part way to the bottom surface and part way to the rear wall and a right wing extending downwardly against the right wall of the vault box part way to the bottom surface and part way to the rear wall.

Abstract: Exercise equipment is adaptable to a variety of resistance and acceleration configurations which are used improve an individual's start in the forty yard dash, and to improve an individual's performance in a variety of other exercises.

Abstract: A collapsible ladder for use primarily for athletic training and the like has a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid rungs secured with collapsible connectors to a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid spacers extending therebetween. In one disclosed embodiment, the collapsible connectors are strips of flexible material extending between the rungs and spacers. Another disclosed embodiment has a second set of rungs aligned substantially parallel to the plurality of spaced-apart rungs along a common central set of spacers. The collapsible connectors allow the ladder to be quickly and easily transitioned between an extended, operational position, and a collapsed, storage position.

Abstract: A weighted vest includes a pair of mirror image front panels joined to a back panel to form a sleeveless weight supporting vest. A plurality of pliable easily conformed weight packets are secured within the vest interior by fabric attachment pads together with a combination of elastic bands and belts. The vest provides weight distribution particularly suited to activities of substantial acceleration such as sprint starting, American football or the like. A porous liner and mesh outer layer over certain areas of the vest allow heat to be vented from the vest interior. A pair of variable spring rate expansion joints are coupled between the front panels and the back panel passing over the shoulder, neck and collar bone region of the athlete's body to provide reduction of localized stress upon the athlete.

Abstract: A collapsible ladder for use primarily for athletic training and the like has a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid rungs secured with collapsible connectors to a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid spacers extending therebetween. In one disclosed embodiment, the collapsible connectors are strips of flexible material extending between the rungs and spacers. Another disclosed embodiment has a second set of rungs aligned substantially parallel to the plurality of spaced-apart rungs along a common central set of spacers. The collapsible connectors allow the ladder to be quickly and easily transitioned between an extended, operational position, and a collapsed, storage position.

Abstract: A single-handed overspeed trainer system that detachably tethers an athlete to a trainer through a substantially quiet, non-hook and loop material, release structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the athlete wears a belt with a substantially rigid loop extending therefrom. The trainer holds one end of a tether that contains a retractable pin toward its opposite end. The pin holds the rigid loop of the belt until the pin is retracted by the trainer, preferably when the tether's handle is released by the trainer.

Abstract: A hip thrust sled may include a pair of spaced apart runners configured in generally parallel relation to each other. A first cross member extends between and is connected to the spaced apart runners proximate to a distal end of the hip thrust sled. A second cross member extends between and is connected to the spaced apart runners near a proximal end of the hip thrust sled to receive removable weights. A pendulum arm is rotatably attached at its distal end to the first cross member and is configured at a proximal end to move vertically relative to the spaced apart runners. The pendulum arm extends towards the proximal end of the hip thrust sled at an upward angle. An adjustable stop may limit the vertical movement of the pendulum arm. A handlebar may be attached to the proximal end of the pendulum arm.

Abstract: A jump training apparatus including a sleeve, a pipe, and an arm. Floor standing embodiments may also include a base that may be operably connected to a weight holder. Wall mounted embodiments may include a mounting bracket, mounting plate, or mounting clamps, for example. At least a portion of the pipe may be slideably inserted into the sleeve. The pipe may be operably connected to the arm. The vertical height of the arm may be adjusted through the movement of the pipe relative to the sleeve. According to certain embodiments, when the arm is positioned at the desired vertical height, the position of the pipe may be secured by operably engaging a fastening element. At least a portion of the arm may be covered by a cushion.

Abstract: A collapsible ladder for use primarily for athletic training and the like has a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid rungs secured with collapsible connectors to a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid spacers extending therebetween. In one disclosed embodiment, the collapsible connectors are strips of flexible material extending between the rungs and spacers. Another disclosed embodiment has a second set of rungs aligned substantially parallel to the plurality of spaced-apart rungs along a common central set of spacers. The collapsible connectors allow the ladder to be quickly and easily transitioned between an extended, operational position, and a collapsed, storage position.

Abstract: A sporting activity system comprising a plurality of stakes and a plurality of pods. The plurality of stakes each have a length and a cross-sectional configuration. Each pod includes a body and a member for interfacing with a stake. The body includes a lower edge, a side and a top surface. The interfacing member includes an opening disposed on one of the top and the sides configured to receive a stake, and, two channels disposed on the body spaced apart from the opening. Each of the at least two channels and the opening can accept a stake of the plurality of stakes simultaneously. Connectors may be provided releasably coupling two stakes of the plurality of stakes to each other.

Abstract: A single-handed overspeed trainer system that detachably tethers an athlete to a trainer through a substantially quiet, non-hook and loop material, release structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the athlete wears a belt with a substantially rigid loop extending therefrom. The trainer holds one end of a tether that contains a retractable pin toward its opposite end. The pin holds the rigid loop of the belt until the pin is retracted by the trainer, preferably when the tether's handle is released by the trainer.

Abstract: An exercise device having position verification feedback capabilities. In one embodiment, the exercise device generally includes a base unit defining a support surface, at least two position sensors arranged along a sensing plane relative to the support surface for detecting the presence of the user along the sensing plane, and a controller in communication with the position sensors to determine the user's position relative to the sensing plane. In another embodiment, the exercise device is configured to simulate the activity of jumping rope. In a further embodiment, an exercise device is provided that is capable of measuring one or more parameters associated with a user's vertical jumping ability.

Abstract: The present invention is an athlete training device and method useful in training athletes for track and field events including the high jump, pole vault, discus, long jump and shot put. The ramp may be adjusted to a number of discrete ramp angles with the use of either supports and stops or supports and channels.

Abstract: An air cushion for exercise in accordance with the present invention has a bladder (10) and a ballast stay (15) accommodated inside the bladder (10). The bladder (10) has a flat bottom (11) and a bulge top (12). The ballast stay (15) is thermally welded to the bottom (11) to stiffen the bottom (11) to make the air cushion stably placed on the ground. Combining the bladder (10) and ballast stay (15) in one piece makes the configuration of the air cushion simple and also simplifies the manufacturing process to reduce product cost of the air cushion.

Abstract: An adjustable step trainer including two straps and more than one slat through which the straps are passed. Each end of the slat has a fixing section through which the strap is passed. A press unit is disposed in a chamber of the fixing section for pressing and fixing the strap.

Abstract: A starting block is used by a runner in a track event. The starting block has five components, a rail, a left foot pedal assembly, a left connector, a right foot pedal assembly, and a right connector. The rail has two outwardly-positioned rows of upwardly directed teeth and two upwardly-projecting guides running parallel to and between the rows of teeth. Each connector has an engaging member for selectively engaging its respective row of teeth and a sleeve for enveloping and selectively engaging its respective guide.

Abstract: An indoor walking workout facility has multiple pathways traversing several rooms, with elevated passageways accessed by elevated paths. The path sections are movable and re-configurable. Several locations along the paths are equipped with scenery, scenic images, sounds, climates and smells that complement a theme for the particular location, such as a mountain walk. The scenic images are displayed on available surfaces, such as walls and ceilings, in a manner tending to surround the walker. Intertwined with the thematic locations are bridges, tunnels, steps, inclines, rope ladders, simulated rock and hill climbs, and the like, that provide varying levels of exertion. Walker care stations are interspersed along the paths for rest and determining blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, calories burned, miles walked, and other information related to the walking activity.

Abstract: A stretching apparatus for use on a golf course provides a wall with a top ridge, a reclined plane and a curb platform, each capable of supporting all or part of a human body. The top ridge may have at its opposite ends, multiple horizontal levels of differing heights. The wall has an obverse surface against which the reclined plane is disposed, and a reverse surface against which the curb platform is disposed. The stretching center may have stilts that elevate the reclined plane above the ground. The preferred embodiment of the stretching center includes a balancing handhold at a centered portion of the wall midway between it opposite ends, extending higher than the multiple levels of the top ridge, for providing balancing support to persons performing stretching exercises on the wall or the curb platform.

Abstract: A non-slip exercise mat for use on multiple surfaces including at least one layer of material having a top surface, a bottom surface, and side surfaces. The mat also includes systems for removably securing the mat to carpeted surfaces and for preventing the mat from slipping on non-carpeted surfaces. Both systems can be joined with the bottom surface or joined on opposite surfaces of the mat. The mat may include shock absorbing materials as well as texturized, slip-resistant materials. The sides of the mat may be beveled. The mat may also include a cover for the system for removably securing the mat to carpeted surfaces.

Abstract: An exercise machine is disclosed. In an embodiment for an exercise machine in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the exercise machine includes a frame having a first axle support and a second axle support. A roller is disposed between the first axle support and the second axle support. An axle extends through the roller and includes a portion extending external to the second axle support. A variable resistance mechanism is coupled to the external portion of the axle.

Abstract: A top for a starting platform at one end of a swimming pool has an upper surface, which is adapted to support both feet of a swimmer in a starting position, and a lower surface, at which the top is mountable so that the upper surface slants downwardly and frontwardly. Ribs on the upper surface slant downwardly and laterally and channels between the ribs slant similarly so as to drain water from the upper surface. Along each lateral edge, an upper trough and a lower trough facilitate grasping by one hand of such a swimmer. The upper trough receives water drained by some of the channels. The front edge is connected to each lateral edge by a unitary grip, which a swimmer in a different position can grasp with one hand.

Abstract: The present invention provides performance enhancing shoe components and methods of using those shoe components to increase exercise performance. The shoe components comprise a layer of 1,4-polybutadiene and, optionally, a high energy returning rubber. A second layer of an energy returning rubber and/or a coating is optionally applied to the first layer. The invented shoe components may be formed as shoe inserts, insoles, midsoles, soles, or portions thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus for improving jumping skill including an adjustable height platform and a pad with a clock enabling an athlete to stand on the platform and jump onto the timing pad then immediately jump off the board. The contact time of the athlete on the board is recorded by the timing device.

Abstract: A system of monitoring impact stress, or acceleration forces on a user while exercising is disclosed. An exercise machine is equipped with sensing apparatus that measures the downward force exerted on the supporting surface by the lower extremities of the user. In this way, the corresponding impact forces are determined as a function of the user's body weight and communicated via a display monitor as “G-forces” or “Earth Gravity Units.” This allows the user to keep exercise impact within limits desired by the user, a physical therapist, or other qualified professional.

Abstract: An adjustable step trainer including two straps and more than one slat through which the straps are passed. Each end of the slat has a fixing section through which the strap is passed. A press unit is disposed in a chamber of the fixing section for pressing and fixing the strap.

Abstract: An inclined ramp is provided for practicing jumps and starts for track and field events. The inclined ramp includes a rigid inclined surface and is usable as part of two different training methods. The training method for jumps involves positioning the ramp near the landing zone with a lower end thereof nearest the approach area, while the training method for starts involves reversing the ramp so that the athlete's feet are on the higher upper end and the hands are on the low end.

Abstract: A training method for athletes that separates running into vertical and horizontal components. The athlete is positioned on a horizontal component training device in an upright position. The athlete contacts the horizontal component training device at a leg pad, a mid-torso location, and an upper torso location. The athlete sequentially trains for acceleration at least the hip flexor and the hip extensor muscles of each leg supramaximally against the leg pad through a sports specific motion. The athlete also sequentially trains the stretch-shortening cycle of at least the hip flexor and the hip extensor muscles of each leg supramaximally against the leg pad through a sports specific motion to train the stretch shortening component of hip flexion and hip extension. Training for acceleration is preferably against hydraulic resistance and training the stretch shortening cycle is preferably against isotonic resistance.

Abstract: An adjustable grid having a base with a predetermined width is disclosed. Two ends of the base has a respective fixing portion; each fixing portion having a through hole for being passed through by a rope. Each fixing portion having a clamping device for fixing the rope. By the pulling force of the rope, the base can be installed steadily. The base is pivotally installed with an adjustable grid. A positioning device is installed between the base and the grid for positioning the grid as the grid stands uprightly. Therefore, the users may stumble over the grid and the grid can fall down as it is collided.

Abstract: An agility ladder for athletic training and exercise use is shown and described. The ladder has at least two elongated parallel railings spaced by rungs extending between the railings. The railings are preferably flexible so that they may be folded to collect the rungs into a stacked or bundled configuration. The collected rungs may then be mounted on an elongated handle for storage purposes. The rungs are slidably mounted on the railings so that they may be repositioned thereon, but a locking arrangement is also provided to allow the rungs to be firmly fixed in place on the railings.

Abstract: A runners starting block is disclosed that can be used separate from an anchor bar, each block to be individually positioned on the track, each block capable of being adjusted over a wide range of foot support angles, the starting blocks usable on artificial surfaces as well as natural ones.

Abstract: An athletic training shoe that is designed to simulate beach training (exercising in sand) so as to provide the user with all of the positive effects of beach training which result in improved running speed, vertical jump, pedal agility and quickness. Such benefits are easily understood where greater demands are placed on an athlete's muscles when walking, running, or jumping on a beach as opposed to other common surfaces. The muscles of the lower leg are strengthened and elongated simultaneously as they are put through a broader range of motion. The athletic training shoe is comprised of a highly pliable, foot-receiving member which places the user's foot in an ample depth of sand simulating material contained by a material holding element, positioned specifically under the front portion of the user's foot. This causes the user's weight and momentum to be supported by the muscles of the lower leg and foot that control flexion of the foot and toes.

Abstract: A simple and economical yet effective training and exercising device is disclosed for sports such as golf wherein an implement such as a golf club is moved along a swing path. An elongated handle has a proximal end with a hand grip and a distal end with a weighted body. A foot plate, sized to receive a foot of the user, includes one or more connection features, preferably inverted-U-shaped hooks rigidly secured to the foot plate. A removable, stretchable tether is provided having a first end tied at a point between the proximal and distal ends of the handle and a second end tied to a connection point on the foot plate. The connection point on the handle is preferably a hook which doubles as a wrist indicator. The length of the tether is adjustable so as to resist upward movement of the handle when swung by the user to promote training and exercise with respect to the sport.

Abstract: An apparatus used to train pole vaulters to practice the swing and stretch of the vault from the pole plant and bend phase to the inversion phase which includes an upside down "U" shaped tube member with two short extensions protruding from a top surface of the upside down "U" shaped tube with steel straps extending from each extension with handles attached to the end of steel straps, the "U" shaped tube, extension and straps and grips are positioned so that the handles hang parallel, level but offset from each other about eight inches. The "U" shaped tube is swingingly attached to the horizontal bar by the use of velcro straps while a cloth mat is provided between the "U" shaped and the horizontal bar allowing the "U" shaped tube to swing freely around the horizontal bar. Safety wrist straps are attached to the hand grips assuring the athlete's safe grip during the training.

Abstract: An apparatus for assisting an individual in training for a long jump, wherein the long jump includes a long jump runway and a long jump pit. The training apparatus includes a launching board positioned on the runway to propel a jumper into the apparatus. The apparatus has a frame assembly with a top portion, a bottom portion, a front portion, and a pair of opposing side portions. Each of the side portions has a lower flexible member extending therefrom which is positioned to allow a jumper's respective legs to pass thereover. The frame assembly also has an upper flexible member positioned to contact a jumper's chest. Alternatively, the training apparatus includes a plurality of separate movable elements, instead of an integral frame assembly.

Abstract: A new jogging exercise stroller for allowing joggers to move their arms in a more natural jogging motion. The inventive device includes a stroller portion defined by a frame member. The frame member has a pair of rear wheels and a forward wheel. The frame member has a seat portion disposed therein. The frame member includes a lower cross bar and an upper cross bar. The upper cross bar has a pair of annular recesses extending therearound at opposing ends thereof. A pair of arcuate handles are coupled with the stroller portion. The handles each have a lower end coupled with the annular recesses of the upper cross bar. A pair of shock absorbers extend between the pair of arcuate handles and the lower cross bar of the stroller portion.

Abstract: A modular playing aid strip that a user can join in any conformation desired. The strips are joined together by grommets and anchors and/or by Velcro. The strips can be easily removed from the playing surface, so that the user can quickly and easily change the layout. The strips are easy to store and transport.

Abstract: A contoured landing surface system and a method of making thereof are provided. The system matches landing surface or pit density to the force generated by an athlete's descending body to cushion the athlete's fall based on air displacement rather than foam characteristics. The system is designed to compensate for variables such a velocity, mass and surface area at the point of impact by utilizing a multi-layer structure, each layer having a plurality of patterned ridges thereon and a network of air channels therebetween. The ridges and air channels of adjacent layers extend perpendicular to the ridges and air channels of each other. Preferably, the landing surface is constructed using layers of foam having the same density.

Abstract: A modular playing aid strip that a user can join in any conformation desired, and are joined together by grommets and anchors or by Velcro. The strips can be easily removed from the playing surface, so that the user can quickly and easily change the layout. The strips are easy to store and transport.

Abstract: An interactive exercise monitor which computes and displays time, distance, pace, and energy expended by a user performing a repetitive workout around a predetermined course employs a stationary transmitter located along the workout course and a receiver carried by the user. The stationary transmitter emits a limited range signal that is detected by the receiver each time the user passes the transmitter during the workout. The receiver includes a central processing unit into which the precise distance of the course may be preprogrammed and that is then capable of computing distance accumulated by the user, elapsed time, and other desired parameters. In addition, the user may enter information such as his or her weight and a desired time, distance, and pace of the workout into the receiver.

Abstract: A method for conducting racing events begins with the determination of the number of lanes to be utilized in all of the individual races of the overall competition. Each racing competition includes a plurality of individual sprint races preferably equal in number to the predetermined number of lanes being utilized. Each competitor for the entire racing competition is assigned a predetermined speed ranking, and then the competitors are aligned for the individual sprint races. The competitor with the highest speed ranking is aligned in the first lane of the first sprint, and subsequent competitors in order of descending speed ranking are aligned in the first lane of subsequent sprints until the first lane of each individual sprint is filled. The remaining competitors are then aligned in the second lane of each sprint, again in descending speed ranking order. Any subsequent lanes are aligned in the same fashion.

Abstract: A playground base and standard assembly (10) includes a typical hollow traffic cone (28) having a top hole (20) for receiving a standard (12) into the cone (28). The cone (28) is modified by placing an insert (26) inside the cone for stabilizing the standard (12). The insert (26) is a solid polyethylene foam member shaped to fit snugly in the cone (28). The insert (26) has a hole (34) coaxial with a top hole (20) on the cone (28) for receiving and supporting any standard (12). One possible standard (12) includes telescoping members (40,42) for adjusting the height of the standard.