Selectively Adjustable With Linearly Slidable Member (e.g., Telescopically Extendible) Patents (Class 473/273)
  • Patent number: 11883715
    Abstract: An exercise assembly for assisting a user in performing squats and other exercise maneuvers is presented herein. The exercise assembly includes a substantially planar base platform, at least one riser bracket fixed to a top surface of the base platform, and a plurality of risers each selectively and removably disposable in a vertically stacked orientation within a channel of the at least one riser bracket to define a height-adjustable support block. Selective removal of one or more of the risers from the vertically stacked orientation within the channel will serve to lower the height-adjustable support block for the performance of more challenging squat exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Inventors: Phillip Andrew Howard, Christopher Harold Arbogast, Eric Nicholas Attinger
  • Patent number: 11351438
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are related to a football training tool with an angled head, a rectangular frustum body, a pair of upper lateral rails, a pair of bottom lateral rails and a bottom. The upper later rails, defined as arms, include foot angle guides. The football training tool may also include a top alignment notch on its head and a bottom alignment notch on its bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Inventors: Michael Ellis Dunham, Daniel Lundy, Nick Warren Dunham
  • Patent number: 11167194
    Abstract: A golf training apparatus is provided for placement in-between a golfer's feet while the golfer is swinging a club and hitting golf balls to provide both resistance and feedback on the application of ideal foot pressure and ideal lower body force in ideal directions during their golf swing. The apparatus is fabricated from two boards that are adjustably connected and slide along two slots to create different board length dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Inventor: Daniel E. Schmitt
  • Patent number: 11033793
    Abstract: A golf training device may aid both left and right-handed golfers to ensure proper stance width using a numbering system based on shoulder width. The training device may ensure proper ball placement off the golfer's front heel to ensure consistent ball striking location in swing. The training device may further ensure proper front foot angle along a swing path for full, pitching, and/or chipping swings and proper rear foot offset from the target line and stance width to ensure consistent swing arch based on the selected club. The training device may be flipped over depending on which hand the golfer uses, and it may be separated or collapsed to be placed in the golfer's bag for storage and/or transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Stance Caddy LLC
    Inventor: Brian Smith
  • Patent number: 11000749
    Abstract: Golf putting training devices are disclosed that include a toe line alignment rod that is perpendicularly connected to a lead foot alignment rod. The devices include a lead toe indicator rod, which is perpendicularly connected to the lead foot alignment rod through a first sliding connector. The devices also include a ball position indicator that is perpendicularly connected to the toe line alignment rod through a second sliding connector. The lead toe indicator rod and first sliding connector are configured to slide along an axis of the lead foot alignment rod to assist the golfer in identifying an optimal distance from a golf ball, while the ball position indicator and the second sliding connector are configured to slide along an axis of the toe line alignment rod to assist the golfer in identifying an optimal position of the golf ball relative to the golfer's left and right feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Inventor: Robert Forney
  • Patent number: 9855483
    Abstract: A golf swing training device comprising has a support base for contacting a support surface, such as the ground. There is a vertical support element extending upward from the support base having a lateral support arm transverse on the vertical support element with a relatively left side and a relatively right side. The lateral support arm has two directional arms extending in a forward direction away from the lateral support arms. The lateral support arm has a rotation-enabling connection to the vertical support element so that the relatively left side can be elevated above the relatively right side, and alternatively the relatively right side may be elevated above the relatively left side to alter the individual respective heights of the two arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Eric Steven Chiles
  • Patent number: 9808700
    Abstract: A golf swing training device for controlling head movements of a golfer during a swing includes a vertical support assembly, a horizontal arm coupled to the vertical support assembly, and a head engaging assembly carried by the horizontal arm. The head engaging assembly includes a generally U-shaped collar divided into two half portions hingedly coupled together and movable between an open position and a closed position. At least one of the two half portions has a coupling removably receiving the horizontal arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Kerry Potter
  • Patent number: 9750997
    Abstract: A pitching training device generally having a platform with a generally T-shaped end and a raised pitchers rubber configured to support the pitcher during delivery of the underhanded pitch, and a pair of removable heel guides to inhibit rotation of a drive foot of the pitcher. A stride section, removably connected to and positioned to extend longitudinally from said generally T-shaped end. A goal post assembly configured to movably position a stride bar across the stride section. The stride bar is positioned as a target for a drive foot of the pitcher to clear a predetermined height during the underhanded pitch. The device is lightweight and portable, useable indoors or on a practice field and is operable for left or right handed pitching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Inventor: Mark Frampton
  • Patent number: 9492727
    Abstract: A tee-ball apparatus having two foot pads which can be adjusted for each batter is disclosed. Once adjusted, the foot pads are not displaced by normal batter actions but can be quickly readjusted for other batters when needed. The tee-ball apparatus can be used with either leftie or rightie batters. The post may be displaced by an errant swing and returned to its normal upright position. The post may also be removable from the rest of the apparatus to allow the batter to practice swinging at pitches while still utilizing the foot pads to maintain proper stance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Inventor: Aaron Brossman
  • Patent number: 9486683
    Abstract: Device and methods for teaching batting skill are disclosed having front and rear foot pads and at least one release point. A stride pad may be included and aligned with the rear pad and a pitching location/source. The front rear pad provides for adjustment out of linear alignment with the rear pad and the stride pad to accommodate open and closed stances. The device admits to multiple position settings and variable stances, and the related methods will help teach baseball and softball players to adopt and use a correct and confident stance, stride and swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Inventor: Keith Brady Goodgame
  • Patent number: 8951140
    Abstract: A golf swing stance trainer has a hub and a central telescoping arm connected to the hub. Side telescoping arms are connected to the hub for swinging outward to positions perpendicular to the central arm. The hub has ground-engaging cleats on a lower surface. The central arm is selectively extended outward for position with respect to a ball position. The side arms are selectively extended outward to indicate desired foot positions. The central arm has an extension with a pivot for sliding outward from the central arm for training position and direction of a golf ball and direction and extent of a swing. Arm extensions are related to an individual user and club selection. The arms are telescoped inward and the side arms are swung inward for carrying. The hub includes a hinge rod with a central receive through which a connected on the central arm slides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Richard Kim
  • Publication number: 20140179457
    Abstract: A portable golf alignment training aid comprises a pair of telescoping sticks that can be extended to different lengths and optionally connected together. The telescoping sticks can be easily stored and transported in a pocket of a conventional golf bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventor: Edward Shore
  • Patent number: 8696484
    Abstract: A golf aid is disclosed for providing a unique method of aiming and aligning a golf shot. The golf aid comprises an elongated base having a plurality of apertures and a plurality of elongated rods adapted to fit within the apertures. By inserting the elongated rods into the apertures in a pre-determined orientation, the present invention can assist the golfer with aiming, alignment, swing mechanics, backswing accuracy, follow-through accuracy, opening/closing their stance, and more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventors: Sean Shahi, Peter Shahi
  • Patent number: 8574090
    Abstract: A rotating foot anchor comprises a base, a pivot pin, and a spring strap. The foot of a user is placed on the base and beneath the spring strap. The foot anchor provides smooth rotation of the user's foot during a follow-through of a golf swing. The pivot pin comprises a downward pointed protrusion which penetrates a ground surface to further secure the device. As the user swings a golf club, the pivot pin enables the foot anchor along with the user's foot to rotate and therefore relive stress applied to the player's knees and back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph R. Veres
  • Patent number: 8371954
    Abstract: A golf swing instruction tool for positioning a golfer in accordance with a golf schematic representing a preferred golf swing includes an elongated shaft having a plurality of sides, a series of ball position circles, a pair of stance lines, a plurality of posture sight lines, a takeaway sight line, a downswing sight line, and a follow through sight line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Gary Anderson
  • Patent number: 8287397
    Abstract: The present invention is an instructional golf device allowing a golfer to bring a golf club back correctly. The device is portable, can be used on level or rough terrain and on a variety of surfaces including grass, artificial ground, or even concrete or pavement. The golfer can hear the device make a sound when the golf club follows the correct path during the back swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Robert A. Hill
  • Patent number: 8246482
    Abstract: A golf swing stance trainer has a hub and a central telescoping arm connected to the hub. Side telescoping arms are connected to the hub for swinging outward to positions perpendicular to the central arm. The hub has ground-engaging cleats on a lower surface. The central arm is selectively extended outward for position with respect to a ball position. The side arms are selectively extended outward to indicate desired foot positions. Arm extensions are related to an individual user and club selection. The arms are telescoped inward and the side arms are swung inward for carrying. The hub includes a hinge rod with a central receive through which a connected on the central arm slides. The hinge rod has slots and holes through the slots at opposite ends. Side arm ends have complementary holes. Pins or screws extend through the holes, and washers allow turning the arms on the pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Kim
  • Publication number: 20120149484
    Abstract: A portable, expandable golf training device that can be placed on the ground to provide alignment. The present invention can supply a plurality of light beams produced by lasers or other light sources or a plurality of extendable tapes or tubes or rods to provide alignment both in the direction of play and perpendicular to it. The device can be used by placing it on the ground in front of the golfer (between the golfer's feet and the ball. Two lines can project outward perpendicular to the direction of play, and two or four lines can project into and away from the direction of play. These lines provide alignment for the golfer. The tapes can be a flat, elongated flexible tape similar to a measuring tape. The rods or tubes can be extendable and/or telescoping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: John A. Kuhlman, JR.
  • Patent number: 8182370
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing golf instruction includes an alignment rod and an instruction flag removably secured to the alignment rod. The alignment rod may be positioned on a ground surface to indicate a target path or otherwise provide a visual cue. The instruction flag includes instructional markings thereon to provide additional visual cues relating to one or more aspects of a golf swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Will Neel Golf Academy Inc.
    Inventor: William B. Neel, III
  • Patent number: 8065105
    Abstract: A system including a platform having a receptacle adapted to a bottom of a shoe or foot; securing mechanism, associated therewith; a sole for contacting a ground surface; a mechanism associated with the sole and a platform bottom, including: motor and a thrusting element, activated by the motor, the thrusting element adapted to move between the sole and the platform to apply an upward force against the platform bottom, thereby changing a platform height with respect to the sole; a sensor device adapted to associate with a lower limb, and to produce a locomotion data signal, and a microprocessor, operatively connected to the sensor device and motor, adapted to: receive locomotion information based on the signal; process the locomotion information to determine a locomotion phase, and control a timing of the mechanism, based on the determination, to change the height during a locomotion swing phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Step of Mind Ltd.
    Inventors: Simona Bar-Haim, Mark Belokopytov
  • Publication number: 20110224010
    Abstract: A golf training plate including a body rectangular in shape comprising a top surface, a left side, a right side, a forward side and a rear side having two foot placement cutouts extending from the rear side towards the forward side and an alignment arm in the shape of an “L” comprising a short portion adjacent the right side of the body and a long portion, substantially parallel to the forward side of the body defining a training space for placement of a ball. The body and the alignment arm each have a series of ball alignment lines to aid in placement of the ball relative to the foot placement cutouts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventor: John Conway
  • Patent number: 7927227
    Abstract: Golfers need and desire to practice and perfect their golf swings, and proper alignment of the golfer's body and the arc that the head of club travels are critical in this regard. The golf swing alignment training device provided allows golfers of different height and body proportions, and using a variety of different golf clubs to practice and perfect their swing. The device comprises a stance rule changeably marked to indicate proper location of the golfer's feet as required using different clubs, a connecting shaft perpendicular to the stance rule that can be moved as needed for clubs of different length, a swing guide governing the direction of the golfer's swing and the shape of its arc, a club face orientation indicator that can be adjusted to indicate proper club face orientation for different shots, and a ball position indicator which properly locates the ball in relation to the device and the golfer's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas L. Radcliffe, Judith Carpenter
  • Patent number: 7914392
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a golf practice system having a practice mat and first and second alignment devices. The first alignment device has a first light emitting device rotatably attached to a first housing and rotatable about a vertical axis. The first alignment device is secured proximate a first side of the mat. The first light emitting device projects a first light beam in a straight line extending outwardly in an adjustably selected first direction and defines a first visible reference line. The second alignment device has a second light emitting device rotatably attached to a second housing and rotatable about a vertical axis. The second alignment device is secured proximate a second side of the mat. The second light emitting device projects a second light beam in a straight line extending outwardly in an adjustably selected second direction and defines a second visible reference line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Deane O. Elliott
  • Patent number: 7758443
    Abstract: A golf work station having a base module with telescoping knee guides and adjustable target knee posts. A rear attachment module having a posture post is removably attached to the base module rear, said posture post being longitudinally extensible and angularly adjustable. A front attachment module having two adjustable swing plane tubes is removably attached to the base module front, said swing plane tubes being vertically and angularly adjustable. A putting module having an adjustable putter shaft slide is removably attached to the base module front, said putter shaft slide being vertically and horizontally adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: David D. Ford
  • Patent number: 7758438
    Abstract: The golf aid apparatus provides for instant fit and removal from either of a golfer's shoes, left or right. The apparatus fits the toe of the employed shoe and provides for a golfer to properly align feet, with the telescopic rod aimed toward an intended target of the golf swing. The apparatus is useful for proper alignment in any swing, including putting strokes. Fitting the toe provides for best visual alignment while also providing ease of fit and removal. The combined loop is slideably fitted around the telescopic rod so that a user has even more freedom in positioning the rod as desired. The rod is adjustable up to 20 inches in length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: Maria R. Colomberti
  • Publication number: 20100144458
    Abstract: Golfers need and desire to practice and perfect their golf swings, and proper alignment of the golfer's body and the arc that the head of club travels are critical in this regard. The golf swing alignment training device provided allows golfers of different height and body proportions, and using a variety of different golf clubs to practice and perfect their swing. The device comprises a stance rule changeably marked to indicate proper location of the golfer's feet as required using different clubs, a connecting shaft perpendicular to the stance rule that can be moved as needed for clubs of different length, a swing guide governing the direction of the golfer's swing and the shape of its arc, a club face orientation indicator that can be adjusted to indicate proper club face orientation for different shots, and a ball position indicator which properly locates the ball in relation to the device and the golfer's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas L. Radcliffe, Judith Carpenter
  • Patent number: 7607987
    Abstract: A guide for improving a golfer's stance and swing includes an elongated hollow member, an elongated insert member, and a connector. In golf-practice configuration, the hollow member and the insert member cross each other at 90 degrees and are adjustable relative to each other for different ball placement. In a storage configuration, the insert member is removed from the connector and slid and latched into an interior space of the hollow member. The hollow member and the insert member are preferably tubular so that the storage configuration is generally a tube-within-a-tube. The preferred connector is near the intersection of the hollow member and the insert member but does not require any structure to be between the hollow member and the insert member at or near the place where they cross each other, resulting in a low profile guide. Preferably, only a small portion of the connector contacts the practice mat or ground, resulting in minimal resistance to movement on the mat or ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Hobart L. Alter
  • Patent number: 7575522
    Abstract: A golf setup training device for training a golfer to take the best possible setup in relation to a ball when addressing the ball prior to hitting the ball. The device includes a pair of axially aligned foot-positioning bars and extending therefrom at right angles a ball-positioning bar that includes a fixed section and an extendable section. The extendable section is adjustably mounted to the fixed section to adjust the length of the ball-positioning bar according to the height of the golfer and/or for a chosen iron. The device may be easily partially disassembled for compact storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph A. Affrunti
  • Publication number: 20090197692
    Abstract: A golf swing connector training device for maintaining a user's upper arms and/or legs at a fixed distance relative to one another during a dual-arm swing. The golf swing connector training device having first and second arm/leg-receiving cuff assemblies and assembly-adjusting means, each cuff assembly comprising a band assembly, the band assemblies each having an are length and a longitudinal cuff axis. The assembly-adjusting means extending intermediate. The band assemblies enable the user to selectively and rigidly fix the distance intermediate the band assemblies. The assembly adjusting means includes two transverse members configured such that a first member receives a second member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Terrence P. Eck
  • Publication number: 20090105005
    Abstract: The present invention is a golf swing training device which guides the golfer's leading leg in an arc around the trailing heel, maintaining a minimum distance between the leading leg and trailing heel. This device guides the golfer's leg action in a 3-dimensional manner to produce a coiling motion on the backswing, which maintains a consistent spine angle as recommended by modern golf instructors. This device comprises a leg brace with flexible cuff which attaches to a golfer's leading leg above the knee, an adjustable strut, and a heel base for the golfer's trailing foot which tilts slightly in the leading direction. For left-handed golfers, this device substitutes a heel base with opposite swivel placement and tilt. This invention resets automatically to the correct position during practice sessions. The benefit for a golfer of using this invention is increased consistency, accuracy, and power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Jason Armas LIBBY, William C. LIBBY
  • Patent number: 7226402
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Pedro Flores Joya
  • Patent number: 7025689
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Mark Steven Infalt
  • Patent number: 6669575
    Abstract: An improved golf training aid for right handed or left handed golfers that conditions the golfer through repetition and muscle memory to hit straight shots, controlled fade shots in varying degrees, and controlled draw shots in varying degrees without the need to use different golf swings for each shot or a different grip for each shot. The target arrow (12) is aimed at a chosen target and held into place by means of spikes (16). The invention aligns the golfers feet correctly for each shot by means of a body alignment shaft (60) and positions the golf ball correctly in relation to the golfers stance by means of a heel alignment block (50). The distance the golfers feet are from the ball is set by moving the heel alignment block (50) and the body alignment shaft (60) assembly either up or down the shot selection indicator shaft (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Walter Terry Marlette
  • Patent number: 6575844
    Abstract: The training device has a u shaped base comprised of a adjustable toe board strip, which is used to promote balance on the balls of the feet and keep the training device from tipping over. The adjustable knee brace, attached to one of three vertical mast, is positioned on the side of the body producing the back swing. The knee brace, contacts the side and back of knee, supporting the proper angle of the knee while controlling lateral and vertical movement. Adjustable upper support assembly, telescoping lateral bar, positions golfer in center of device. Telescoping horizontal back bar in conjunction with angled side bar, contact the lower lumbar of back and hips on side of body producing back swing, effectively controlling lateral and vertical movement. A angled padded vertical bar, positioned in the centered of the back promotes the proper spine angle and allows golfer to stay centered by rotating the upper body around the bar as axis of spine and clearing in the follow thru swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Richard R. Gray
  • Patent number: 6440004
    Abstract: A golf positioning and alignment device having a housing unit, guidance strips and spring loaded wound strip dispensers. More specifically, the present invention is a golf positioning and alignment device having three independently retractable guidance strips all contained within and mounted at the apexes of a substantially triangular housing unit. Each guidance strip is capable of being manually extended to a user-specified position and selectably locked or secured therein. The guidance strips are pulled through apertures or slits in the housing unit, wherein two opposing strips are pulled perpendicular to the golfer's stance and wherein the third strip is pulled forward and secured proximal the golf ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Ozzy Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 6343998
    Abstract: A golf swing practice apparatus for allowing a golfer to, practice his golf swing with a golf club. The golf swing practice apparatus comprises an elongated housing having a bottom edge, a tripod stand mounted near the bottom edge of the housing, a vertical rod mounted within the housing so that the rod extends upward from the housing, an extension pivotably mounted to the rod at its the center and a pair of swing arms pivotably mounted from the ends of the extension so that the swing arms may be extended at a right angle therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph Leonard Tarulli, Joseph Paul Ingarra
  • Patent number: 6196933
    Abstract: An adjustable golf swing training apparatus that provides a telescopic swing training arm for teaching a proper golf swing and indicating errors in a golf swing. The telescopic swing arm is magnetically biased toward a predetermined length and may expand and contract to indicate to a golfer that the golfer's swing is in or out of the swing plane. The adjustable golf swing training apparatus also provides an apparatus for repeatedly aligning a golfer in a two-dimensional stance plane in order to consistently utilize the golf swing training apparatus. Indicia are provided for recording the distance of the golfer and the ball from a support plane. In addition, indicia are provided for indicating the spacing between a golfer's feet wherein the distance between the golfer's feet correlate with an indicia that indicates lateral positioning of the golfer with regard to a vertical support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Swing Shaper, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee A. Hope, Charles E. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 6142883
    Abstract: The golf alignment device of this invention is an adjustable frame, comprising a first side of said frame marked with indicia for positioning the forward foot of the golfer and being marked with indicia for placement of the rear foot according to the club to be used; a slotted second side of the frame extending from the end of the first side of the frame nearest the forward foot, which second side bears indicia for placement of the golf ball; a slotted third side extending from the other end of the first side; a fourth side joined to the ends of the second and third sides to form a frame; a first ball marker arm extending from the second side and within the frame, which arm is perpendicular to the second side and a pivotal second marker arm extending within the frame from the first side, the second marker arm being disposed such that an imaginary line extending from the center of its terminal end within the frame intersects a point just beyond the terminal end of the first marker arm situated within the frame
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph Ferrara
  • Patent number: 6106408
    Abstract: A golf stance training device comprises an elongated base strip and foot guide means extending rearwardly from said base strip and adapted to guide the placement of the front foot of a golfer. A lateral strip has one end adjustably pivotally connected to the front end of the base strip and extends laterally forwardly therefrom. A forwardly outwardly inclined diagonal strip is connected the other end of said lateral strip, with the lateral strip being adjustably moveable along said diagonal strip. A ball positioning strip, when in use, is fixed to the front end of said diagonal strip at a predetermined angle and extends rearwardly to establish a ball placement position. The lateral strip is adjustable with respect to the base strip and the diagonal strip so as to adjust the device for use by golfers of different heights. The ball positioning strip is substantially parallel to the base strip for all adjusted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Leonard W. Roman
  • Patent number: 6093110
    Abstract: A golf training kit for helping a golfer improve his or her overall game by helping improve alignment, putting stroke, pitching and chipping, and ball position. The inventive device includes a circular target, a line and putting guide, a putter trainer guide, a golf hole backstop that is positionable within a golf hole, an alignment guide that is adapted for illustrating proper ball placement for various shots, and an indoor putting ring adapted for securement to a carpeted surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Robert Q. Jones
  • Patent number: 6086483
    Abstract: Firstly and foremost, the invention is novel and non-obvious because no entity or person known to the inventor as of the filing date is marketing any system, product or series of products that links or integrates a set up instrument to custom fitted golf clubs. The inventor believes that to a very significant degree, the golfers set up predetermines the motion. A golfer may set up to the ball perfectly and swing perfectly but if the golf clubs don't fit the golfer, the flight of the ball will definitely be compromised in a variety of ways. Or, a golfer may obtain custom fitted golf clubs but if he or she doesn't have a way to duplicate and reproduce the set up, which predisposes the swing, the golfer's swing will probably change, primarily, because the set up changed. The invention herein is much needed for golf game improvement because it systematically controls the most critical variables in golf. The inventor believes the SET UP and CUSTOM FITTED CLUBS go hand in hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: Philip J. Brown
  • Patent number: 6077168
    Abstract: A swing-practicing device for golf, comprises a first shaft, a second shaft, a third shaft, a fourth shaft, a fifth shaft and a ball mount. Those shafts and ball mount are pivotally connected by bolt and clamping holes thereon. Whereby user can find a precise standing point and the golf ball can be positioned at a precise position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: Huei Yueh Huang
  • Patent number: 5976027
    Abstract: This invention relates to golf training devices, and in particular discloses a device for stabilizing a golfer's feet and stance while he practices his swing. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a substantially flat mat in which a left foot gripping element and a right foot gripping element are each slidably engaged. The gripping element have a front tongue and a rear tongue respectively engaged with a front groove in a raised front border and with a corresponding rear groove in a raised rear border of the flat mat. The gripping element can thus secure a golfer's feet parallel to each other in a given stance while the golfer practices a golf swing. The gripping element can be slid nearer or farther away from each other and locked in the selected position to provide a variety of widths of stance. The device is thus useful as a training device in order to prevent the golfer from getting his feet in the wrong orientation to each other during the course of his swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: John Kachmar
  • Patent number: 5951409
    Abstract: A golf swing training aid which has a base bar to align and position a user's feet in the proper position. A pair of bars are slidably attached to the base bar which allows the user to position the ball properly between his/her feet, to position his/her feet the proper distance apart on every swing, and a vertically telescoping assembly allows the golfer to position the golf ball the proper distance away from the user's body. The pair of bars and the vertically telescoping assembly have indicia thereon viewable through apertures in the base bar so the user will know exactly where to position his/her feet and the ball as well as aligning the clubface properly to the intended target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Nicholas O. Calley
  • Patent number: 5947832
    Abstract: A golf training aid for teaching an individual correct ball positioning when in a golfer's stance. The inventive device includes a pliable U-shaped member dimensioned for securement to a heel of a golfer's shoe. An aiming rod extends from the U-shaped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Raymond S. Gagne
  • Patent number: 5947834
    Abstract: An adjustable golf swing training apparatus is disclosed, the apparatus comprising a support structure for supporting the golf swing training apparatus in a support plane, and a telescopic swing training arm connected to the support structure and further connectable to a golf club shaft. The telescopic swing training arm is magnetically biased toward a predetermined length, whereby the swing training arm is urged toward the predetermined length in response to axial movement thereof in either first or second directions away from the predetermined length. The predetermined length is such as to accommodate a preferred path of travel for a golf club through a portion of a golf swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventors: Lee A. Hope, Charles E. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 5944613
    Abstract: A horizontal tube 1 having a mark 6 for the left foot position, and having a sequence of preferably three marks 3-5 for the right foot position for three ranges of club numbers. A shaft 10 is inserted transversely through the tube via one of three horizontal transverse holes 7-9 corresponding to the ranges of clubs indicated for the right foot. The shaft is tapered from end to end, and stops in a transverse hole at a position depending on the diameter of the hole. This position is designed such that the shaft extends forward a distance appropriate for ball placement for the given range of clubs. For adjustment, the user need only move the shaft to one of three holes. This configures the device for both the lateral and longitudinal placement of the feet relative to the ball, with minimal distraction and concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Enrique Dubois
  • Patent number: 5938539
    Abstract: A triangular guide placed horizontally on the ground between a golfer and a golf ball (11), having a base side (1) parallel to the desired trajectory line (14) for the ball, and left and right sides (4, 5) attached to the base side, converging to a front apex (6) pointing toward the ball. A golfer stands with the thighs, shoulders, and hips aligned with the base of the guide. On the back-swing, the golfer aligns the left forearm with the right side of the guide. On the follow-through, the golfer, aligns the right forearm with the left side of the guide. Labels on the guide remind the golfer of the use of the guide, and of certain aspects of the swing. A ball position indicator (20) may be attached to the practice aid to provide practice in ball placement relative to the golfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: David Paul Hamilton
  • Patent number: 5919099
    Abstract: A training aid for developing a golfer's swing which comprises a swing assembly having reference markings disposed thereon which define a desired swing path for a golf club relative to the reference markings. The training aid further comprises a light source which continually casts at least a portion of a golfer's shadow and a shadow of the golf club onto the swing assembly in general relation to the markings allowing the golfer to readily visualize and compare his/her swing path with an "ideal" swing path during a golfer's swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: John Woods
  • Patent number: 5860871
    Abstract: A golf swing trainer, and more particularly a kinesthetic golf swing plane training device and a method for golfers to train and perfect their swinging of a golf club is provided. The golf swing training device includes a training light adapted to be attachable to a shaft of a golf club. The training light is directed to project a head beam of light and a grip beam of light. The head beam of light projects parallel to the shaft of the golf club, toward the head of the golf club and the grip beam of light projects parallel to the golf club shaft, toward the grip of the golf club. The golf swing training device also includes a swing platform that includes a ground positioned pair of parallel tracks. An optically reflective means for reflecting the head beam of light as projected by the training light, and for reflecting the grip beam of light as projected by the training light is provided on the swing platform. The swing platform is preferably adjustable to suit various club lengths and club types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Inventor: David E. Marley, Jr.