Abstract: The disclosure sets forth an apparatus and method that is best used to train a player to swing a golf club. Specifically, the invention focuses upon how to train a golfer to assume a correct stance and posture from the point of addressing the ball through the swing and follow-through.

Abstract: A system and method for analyzing and improving the performance of an athletic motion such as a golf swing requires: instrumenting a user with inertial sensors and video cameras and monitoring a golf swing or such other athletic motion of interest; drawing upon and contributing to a vast library of performance data for analysis of the test results; the analysis including scoring pre-defined parameters relating to component parts of the motion and combining the parameter scores to yield a single, kinetic index score for the motion; providing a real-time, information rich, graphic display of the results in multiple, synchronized formats including video, color coded and stepped frame animations from motion data, and data/time graphs; and based on the results prescribing a user-specific training regime with exercises selected from a library of standardized exercises using standardized tools and training aids.

Abstract: The present invention provides a training apparatus and method for improving the stance of a golfer throughout the golfer's swing. The apparatus comprises a shaft pivotally connected to a base so that the shaft pivots about a pivot point along a plane to increase or decrease the angle formed by the base, the shaft, and the pivot point. A golfer stands on the base and straddles the shaft so that the leading foot is behind the shaft nearest the pivot point, and the non-leading leg is in front of the shaft thus preventing an over-rotation of a golfer's hips during the performance of a back swing and keeping the golfer's arms in front of the golfer's chest so that the golf club does not become trapped behind the golfer.

Abstract: Devices and methods for aligning an individual's golf swing have been developed. The devices and methods help a golfer to properly position a golf ball and to properly execute a swing, increasing the likelihood of an accurately hit golf shot. Golf swing alignment devices of the invention are collapsible such that they can be stored within a golf bag when not in use.

Abstract: A swing guide exerciser for training a golfer which comprises: a panel, substantially rectangular, an elongated bar, a coupler secured to the surface of the panel, adjacent a corner, for mounting an end of the bar on the surface wherein the bar forms an acute angle with the short dimension and is perpendicular to said long dimension. Various exercises performed include an exercise to increase back extension and develop increased velocity of the club head.

Abstract: An exercise device for exercising the major muscle groups of the middle and lower torso. The exercise device has a self-standing framework that includes a vertical post. A cross beam is provided that has two ends and a middle section. The middle section of the cross beam is connected to the vertical post with a pivot connection. The pivot connection enables the cross beam to move relative to the vertical post throughout a predetermined range of motion. A person exercises by grabbing and pulling a handle. The handle is attached to at least one resistance element. By adjusting the orientation of the cross beam, the handles and resistance elements can be selectively positioned at various heights and at various offset orientations relative to a support platform.

Abstract: A training aid for practicing a golf swing. Two laser pointers are mounted at opposite ends of a bar that is affixed to a hat. The laser pointers are horizontally and vertically adjustable and are adjusted such that the laser beams from the two laser pointers cross at a desired point in front of the user. While maintaining the proper stance for a golf swing, the beams are adjusted to intersect each other a short distance above the golf ball. Any movement of the head will cause the beams to shift. This provides immediate feedback to the user and is useful in training the user to execute a golf swing while keeping the head in a certain position and motionless.

Abstract: A golf putting and practice aid, which is a flat device having a pointer portion, a long shaft, a fin-shaped assembly and an elongate back bar portion, for visualizing, before making a putt, the desired trajectory and golf club head alignment for achieving such trajectory.

Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus includes a frame having a crosspiece interconnecting the upper ends of a pair of generally-parallel-spaced elongate supports, to thereby define a first frame portion extending along a generally horizontal first axis when the frame stands on a playing surface. Two axially-spaced, rigid cantilevered arms are mounted on the first frame section such that the free end of each arm is rotatable in a respective generally-vertical reference plane while resisting “lateral” horizontal movement. In use, the apparatus is positioned generally behind or, most preferably, generally in front of a golfer as the golfer addresses a golf ball, with each arm extending on a respective side of the golfer's head. During a swing, undesired lateral head movement is indicated by contact between the golfer's head and an arm, with the arm resisting such lateral movement to provide a proportional tactile feedback regarding such lateral head movement.

Abstract: A system, a computer program product and a method for registration and analysis of data from a practised stage, and for generation of action programs in dependence of said data. Preferably, the system and the method are adapted for the analysis of the player properties of a sports practiser (1500) and for the generation of an action program in the form of a training model for the player, whereby the player will, while practising (1501) the sport, register (1502) player data (101) and result data (102) in a registration unit (104). In a parameter processing unit (106), a player characteristics profile, depending of said registered data, is generated (1503), regarding various parameters, such as shot type, number of shots per shot type, etc., as well as a comparison profile by means of which a current player characteristics profile for a player is compared with a normal profile for an average player.

Abstract: A novel system and method for controlling and stabilizing the swing mechanics of a golfer is disclosed. More specifically, a system for and method of stabilizing the right knee (the left knee for left handed golfers) of a golfer such that a critical knee flexion angle is maintained throughout the golf swing, the weight of the golfer is properly transferred, and the right hand side (left hand side for left handed golfers) is properly loaded for a reliable, consistent, controlled, and safe golf swing. The system and method further comprise use of a putting attachment that can be removably secured to a primary apparatus for controlling a golfer's stance through all phases of a putting stroke.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the game of golf and golf accessories more particularly, to an alignment device for setting a player's stance. This invention relates to golf training devices and the method of using the devices. Specifically disclosed herein is a device for stabilizing a golfer's feet and stance while the golfer practices the swing. The device may be employed in the process of hitting a golf ball or executing a swinging motion of a golf club without actually contacting a golf ball or a golf ball being present.

Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus is intended for use in learning the proper technique of swinging a golf club to hit a golf ball and accelerate the golf ball along an intended path. The training apparatus includes a planar reflective panel, such as a mirror for visually identifying a users swing path. The training apparatus also includes a rigid panel for strengthening and supporting the reflective panel. The reflective panel includes markings that represent a person at the important golf club to golf ball impact stage so that a user may compare the user's positioning to that of the preferred positioning.

Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus increases the efficiency of the training process for a desired golf swing. Multiple training apparatus are mounted on a support base to define the proper golf swing path and corresponding body movement. The golfer strikes a barrier when the golf swing is performed in an undesirable manner, thus providing negative feedback in the training of the desired swing yet positive results. The apparatus allows a golfer to practice a selected swing without restraints to facilitate muscle memory of an optimal golf swing and with optimal body movement.

Abstract: An apparatus and methodology are provided for determining the proper set-up for a golfer. The methodology and apparatus set a golfer's hips parallel to his intended ball roll or flight line (target line) based upon his right or left hip rotation and shoulder width to determine his individualized stance address position to a golf ball. To this end, the apparatus includes a template “mat” placed on the ground which measures the width of a golfer's stance and rotation of a golfer's hips from the proposed path of the golf ball, also referred to as the “target line”, and an elongate bar affixed to a golfer's hips for visually indicating the golfer's hip rotation relative to the target line. The mat preferably includes a plurality of markings for measuring the width of a golfer's stance and for measuring the rotation of a golfer's hips.

Abstract: The present invention is a Golf learning, training, practice device utilizing a Magnetic Module, Swing Plate, Impact Form, and Ball Holder. The Magnetic Module is a shallow case enclosing a plurality of magnets, inserted flush with earth ground, or a board. The Swing Plate is a round or elongated disk with a plurality of apertures from left side to right, having printed location guides for ball or target positioning, used by laying selected aperture onto Magnetic Module. The Impact Form of a shape, of resilient material, or fabric becoming a target for practice golf swing. The Ball Holder, a form or shape, of resilient material, being concave, or cylindrical on top, to support a real, or practice golf ball. The selected aperture of Swing Plate, magnetically attracted to Magnetic Module, will also, within the same aperture, attract either Impact Form or Ball Holder. This device offers ball placement choices, swing approaches, orientation, and guidance, for practice swings and actual strokes with a golf ball.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a swing training device for golfers which allows a golfer to receive immediate visual feedback as to his stance, form, and technique. The training device includes a break-resistant mirror and long support legs mounted behind the reflective surface. These legs not only support the mirror in an upright position, but act as shock absorbers so that the golfer can repeatedly hit practice balls or throw a weighted training ball into the mirror. The legs deflect and then spring back, thereby reorienting the mirror back to its original position and allowing the golfer to remain in substantially the same location while training.

Abstract: A posture correcting tool is provided which allows a golf player to practice so that the forward inclination angle of the upper-half body when impacting on a ball with a club can be controlled appropriately and extend the ball flight distance. Being a posture correcting tool worn by a player when practicing club swings, it has a wearing unit which can be fixed to the player's waist, a back fitting unit which is rotatably joined with the wearing unit, arranged so that it can fit with the player's back when worn, and can regulate the forward inclination angle of the upper-half body when the player swings a golf club, and an angle indicating unit with which the forward inclination angle can be visually checked.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a body adapted for attachment to a waist of a golfer. A wand-form pointer is secured to the body and has a starting position extending outwardly from the body. The pointer is adapted to encroach into an inside downward swing path of the golfer. The pointer is capable of omni-directional movement, such that it deflects if struck. The pointer is biased to the starting position, such that, when struck, the pointer always returns to the starting position.

Abstract: A golf training machine for correcting the posture for addressing a golf ball and the golfer's swing is disclosed. The machine includes a supporting body including a flat plate and pillar vertically inserted and arranged on the plate, a pivot arm which is rotatably at one end around a shaft at an upper end of the pillar, a support rotatably attached at another end of the pivot arm for performing rotation of the hips of a golfer and an auxiliary support located at one side of the front of the pivot arm for supporting a side of the hips of the golfer.

Abstract: A multi-positional swing training device having adjustable configurations suitable for addressing a plurality of swing flaws, such as with a golf swing, is provided. The training device includes a base, and an upright member extending vertically from the base. An elongate arm extends from the upright member and a guide member extends from the distal end of the arm. The position of the arm and guide member relative to the base is adjustable into any variety of positions to address different swing flaws.

Abstract: A golf instructional system and method is provided for learning proper setup for swinging a golf club, such a system being customizable for an individual golfer by a professional golf instructor. Various embodiments utilize positioning markers, a mirror, an arm wedge, a wand, and an instruction manual.

Abstract: An aid for visual detection of a golfer's head movement, constructed of card or plastics sheet includes a black-faced sighting member that has a circular aperture there through and is hinged to a base member Adjustment of the inclination of the sighting member to the base member brings a black disc-marking line sight through the aperture. Lugs of a stay member which is hinged to the sighting member for setting the sighting-member inclination are held engaged in selected notches of the base member by a sprung-up tongue; in an alternative form of aid a stay member engages in transverse slots. Head movement is observed as apparent movement of the disc-marking within the aperture.

Abstract: An adjustable swing training aid for training an athlete to perform a desired swing. The swing training aid includes an adjustable stand having a pad connector; and a swing pad having an attachment spot for attaching the swing pad to the adjustable stand. The stand adjusts to move the swing pad into a desired position. The adjustable stand can include a base, a first arm of variable length, a second arm of variable length, a first adjustable connector, and a second adjustable connector. The first arm is coupled to the base. The first connector couples the first arm and the second arm, and adjusts the angle therebetween. The second arm is rotateable about the base. The second connector couples the second arm to the swing pad and adjusts the angle therebetween. The swing pad preferably includes a plurality of attachment spots for connecting to the pad connector.

Abstract: A laser alignment system comprises a rod, a casing removably couplable with respect to the rod, and a laser positioned within the casing.

Abstract: A rocking footplate alerts an athlete such as a golfer or a baseball player to the occurrence of improper rear foot weight placement. The footplate is placed under the athlete's rear foot and includes upper and lower plates which are joined by a hinge having an axis of rotation which is aligned with the center of the foot. The bottom of the device includes spikes which engage the ground to provide a stable base for the hinged top plate. The top plate is in the anatomical shape of a foot to aid proper foot placement on the device.

Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus increases the efficiency of the training process for a desired golf swing. Multiple training apparatus are mounted on a support base to define the proper golf swing path and corresponding body movement. The golfer strikes a barrier when the golf swing is performed in an undesirable manner, thus providing negative feedback in the training of the desired swing yet positive results. The apparatus allows a golfer to practice a selected swing without restraints to facilitate muscle memory of an optimal golf swing and with optimal body movement.

Abstract: The golf training device includes a foot alignment strip generally in the form of an arrow that can be pointed towards a target. A ball alignment marker extends perpendicularly from an intermediate position along the foot alignment strip and can be pointed towards the golf ball. A hand alignment guide defines an arc that extends from the ball alignment marker to provide a visible cue that identifies a preferred path of movement of the hand through a golf swing. The shaft alignment line extend transversely across the hand alignment marker to identify preferred shaft positions at various points during a golf swing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for assisting a golfer to improve his/her putting stroke. The apparatus comprises two elongate positioning members having two upper end portions which the golfer places between his/her upper arm portions and upper side torso portions. The shaft of the putter is connected to the two lower end portions of the positioning members. The golfer grasps the hand grip of the putter while his/her upper arms press against the upper end portions of the positioning members. Thus the golfer's upper torso portion, the two positioning members, and the putter, are substantially stationary relative to one another. Then the golfer properly executes the putting stroke by moving the upper torso to cause the golfer's arms, the positioning members and the putter to move as a unit with the golfer's upper torso portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a static pose fixture (10) used for measuring a subject (42) that is the object of a motion capture system. The static pose fixture (10) provides a means for holding the subject (52) in a static position by using various struts in order to automate the sizing of a computer generated model or to position and orient markers with respect to the model.

Abstract: A sport performance evaluation method and system. The method includes storing a user-defined physical profile, displaying a set of images where each image in the set depicts a different variation of an element of imperfect sport performance, and selecting at least one image in the set most closely depicting an element of imperfect sport performance exhibited by a user who is associated with the user-defined physical profile. The method also includes diagnosing at least one cause for the imperfect sport performance based upon the stored at least one selected image and the stored user-defined physical profile. The system can include a user-defined physical profile and at least one set of images depicting an element of imperfect sport performance where each image in the set depicts a different variation of the element. The system can also include at least one data repository and at least one computing device.

Abstract: A leg positioning and training device for a golfer is disclosed. The device is characterized by the structure including platform having a foot base plate rotatably mounted thereon for the golf's rear foot, wherein the foot base plate is adjustable in two planes. The footbase plate includes a segment that extends upwardly from the base plate in receiving relation to the user's foot and ankle, and this segment is angularly adjustable with respect to a plane that is substantially normal to the foot base plate. A strain gauge is operatively attached to that segment for receiving and measuring force applied by the user, and a display indicator is provided in operative connection to the strain gauge, whereby the user may see a representation of the force applied thereto during a golf swing.

Abstract: A novel apparatus and method for controlling and stabilizing the swing mechanics of a golfer is disclosed. More specifically, an apparatus for and method of stabilizing the right knee (the left knee for left handed golfers) of a golfer such that a critical knee flexion angle is maintained throughout the golf swing, the weight of the golfer is properly transferred, and the right hand side (left hand side for left handed golfers) is properly loaded for a reliable, consistent, controlled, and safe golf swing. The apparatus for controlling and stabilizing the swing mechanics of a golfer comprises upper and lower leg support members and an adjustable hinge about the knee flexion axis and that will accommodate variable degrees of flexion depending on golfer specific conditions (e.g. height, arm and leg length, weight, etc.) and environmental conditions (course conditions, ball lie, playing hazards, etc.).

Abstract: A small light weight golfers aide comprising a case about the size of a conventional telephonic pager attachable to a golfer and housing user programmable means for generating time duration controllable low level vibrations or light patterns indicative of a preferred golf swing tempo for the golfer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a static pose fixture (10) used for measuring a subject (42) that is the object of a motion capture system. The static pose fixture (10) provides a means for holding the subject (52) in a static position by using various struts in order to automate the sizing of a computer generated model or to position and orient markers with respect to the model.

Abstract: An apparatus for analyzing kinetic motion is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of video capture devices, such as high speed digital video cameras, a device for storing videos obtained by the video cameras, a video display device, and a computer. The computer is operatively connected to a display device for playing the video from each of the plurality of cameras simultaneously. Preferably the videos from each of the plurality of cameras are synchronized to play at the same time and show the same kinetic motion from different angles at the same time.

Abstract: A system for the enhancement of a televised golf broadcast, which requires: obtaining detailed topographic measurements of golf greens; inputting these data into a Geographic Information System (GIS) program, smoothing the data, and generating contours on a selected interval; storing and processing the contour data such that it may be viewed from various other perspectives; selecting a real-time televised image of a golf green from a plurality of camera positions; synchronizing and superimposing the contour database image over the televised feed; computing and processing equations of motion which take into account the location of the golf ball relative to the golf cup, the weight of the golf ball, the effect of the wind, the Stimpmeter speed of the green, and the gravitational influence of the slope of the green, to determine a path the putt can take to roll into the cup or to come to rest within 18 inches of the cup; and displaying the combined images along with the projection of the calculated ball path on

Abstract: A golf training apparatus that includes a first elongated flexible strip of a stance length, and a second elongated flexible strip of a ball distance length. According to an example of the invention, the first elongated flexible strip and the second elongated flexible strip include an area of loop-type material, or material that cooperates with hook-type material. The first elongated flexible strip and the second elongated flexible strip may then be joined to one another by providing a separate section of hook-type material or by incorporating hook-type material onto the first elongated flexible strip and the second elongated flexible strip.

Abstract: A golf stance coordinator template and method for using the same is provided for establishing and documenting a correct stance and for repeated positioning of the golf ball when utilizing assorted golf clubs. The device includes a foot positioning template having an E-shaped configuration when assembled for use. The foot positioning template includes first, second, and third vertical foot marker members which are pivotally secured to a horizontal foot marker member. The foot positioning template folds into an I-shaped configuration for ease in transportability. Indicia are provided to serve as golf stance indicator markers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a static pose fixture (10) used for measuring a subject (42) that is the object of a motion capture system. The static pose fixture (10) provides a means for holding the subject (52) in a static position by using various struts in order to automate the sizing of a computer generated model or to position and orient markers with respect to the model.

Abstract: A swing training device includes an adjustable belt, a base plate, a guide arm and a club connector. The base plate is secured to the user's torso with the adjustable belt. The guide arm attaches to the base plate so as to be hinged both horizontally and vertically. The golf club attaches to the guide arm opposite the base plate. The connecting mechanism contains a hinge that allows the golf club to move in an angular and rotational motion relative to the guide arm. When used properly, the swing training device will assist the user in developing muscle memory of a proper swing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a static pose fixture (10) used for measuring a subject (42) that is the object of a motion capture system. The static pose fixture (10) provides a means for holding the subject (52) in a static position by using various struts in order to automate the sizing of a computer generated model or to position and orient markers with respect to the model.

Abstract: A virtual coach is provided in the form of a master communications device and one or more player associated communications devices. The master communication device includes a processor which receives information on game play conditions and/or player and game object locations, analyzes the information, and formulates an appropriate coaching instruction which is transmitted to one or more selected players.

Abstract: A sports stance and follow through training apparatus is provided having a generally elongated, planar position platform for resting parallel to the ground. A foot guard is affixed to the upper resting surface of the position platform at the front, and is formed of a flexible, elastic member forming a concave receiving cap made from a material such as SPANDEX (™). An impingement spike formed of a vertically elongated tapered shaft is pivotally affixed to the lower ground contact surface to allow said position platform to pivot about a centerline of the spike.

Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus includes a base that has a top surface in which is defined a slot. A cover is movably mounted on the base and includes a top surface upon which is defined a second slot. The second slot of the cover is vertically aligned with the first slot of the base when the cover is mounted on the base. A light source is positioned in the base and transmits light through the first and second slots toward the eyes of a user. A number of color strips are positioned within the first slot such that the color of light witnessed by the user will vary depending upon the lateral position of the user's head relative to the center line of the second slot.

Abstract: A golf aid having a horizontally elongated body with a top surface, bottom surface, front surface, back surface and two opposing end surfaces. A plurality of lines are disposed upon the front, top and back surfaces. Two holes located adjacent to each end are defined between the top and bottom surfaces. The vertical element of a stabilizer having a vertical element and a horizontal element is inserted into each hole. The stabilizers are capable of rotating between a support position and a storage position.

Abstract: A golf putting training apparatus for a golfer to develop a pendulum stroke including a rigid, upright support and a shoulder engaging guide rotatably attached to the support. The shoulder guide is connected to a rotatable bearing positioned perpendicular to the ground, whereby the golfer's shoulders may only move in a vertical plane, ensuring that a pendulum stroke is achieved.

Abstract: A golf training device to help maintain the proper synchronous relationship between the movement of hands and hip rotation during a golf swing. In the event that the movement of the hands and hip rotation of the user are out of synchronization, the training device provides feedback to the user. The training aid device basically comprises a strap that secure a sheet to the rearward leg of the user. A trapezoid shaped panel is mounted to the sheet, which provides the user with a reference as to the proper positioning of a user's hands and the shaft of the golf club during address, and which provides a tactile feedback signal to the user, if the user's backswing is improper or if the user's hip rotation and movement of the user's hands are out of synchronization, by making contact with at least one of the user's hands.

Abstract: A pre-recorded video of a master's swing motion is stored as first frame sequences in computer memory. Target cues indicative of motion progress are associated with each first frame sequence. A video recording of the student performing the swing motion is stored in computer memory as second frame sequences. Reference cues indicating motion progress of the student are inserted into or associated with each student frame. The first frames are aligned with and normalized to the second frames, and then the first frames are synchronized to corresponding second frames using the target cues and the reference cues. The corresponding first and second frame pairs are superimposed, and immediately thereafter displayed to allow the student to analyze differences between his swing motion and the master's swing motion.

Abstract: A golf training system which utilizes a pair of hinged panels which are placed on the practice surface at a selected angularity in an inverted “V” to provide a reference for club path, stance and ball position to teach the student a repeatable proper swing. Preferably one of the sides of the panels carry grid-like indicia and the opposite sides only a ball position marked. The teaching method employs the panels and the position and angularity of the panels may be varied in accordance with the type of golf shot and physical characteristics of the golf student. For more advanced student, the panels are reversed so the sides substantially devoid of marking are displayed. The system may be used to teach virtually all golf shots including putting.