Abstract: A method of locating properly and comfortably a protective helmet on the head of a person. A fit, locating and comfort band is mounted around the persons head, namely adjacent the ears and the back of the head and over the forehead. Thereafter, a protective plastic helmet having a foam lining is mounted over the band as a separate and distinct operation. The method further comprises employing a harness above the band to aid in keeping it in place while the helmet is subsequently mounted, and to protect the top of the head from discomfort caused by a central foam element of the helmet. The apparatus comprises the band and harness and helmet employed in combination with each other, but with no need for the band or harness to be connected to the helmet. In accordance with another aspect of the method and apparatus, an inflatable bladder is employed to aid in maintaining the band and helmet in the desired positions.

Abstract: A method for training and warming-up baseball pitchers, using an apparatus comprising a closed loop of stretchable cord having a baseball or a simulated baseball mounted thereon. In accordance with one aspect of the method, the cord is secured to an anchor point spaced above the ground, and the pitcher slowly performs a simulated pitching movement while standing with his back to the anchor point and at a distance therefrom determined by the desired tension in the cord. In accordance with another aspect of the method, the pitching motion is performed without turning the pitching arm and wrist, and it is ascertained whether turning has occurred by sensing whether or not the upper fingers of the gripping hand of the pitcher engage portions of the cord at the baseball.