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

Abstract: A device is disclosed to improve the accuracy of a sport participant in the kicking or handling of a ball. A first version includes a ball attached by a tether to a vertical pole. The pole and tether limit the ball's freedom and allows the ball to rotate about the pole and return to a trainee after being struck by the trainee. A second version provides a frame mounted on the pole whereby the tether is attached to a top section of the pole. A third version includes a frame that rotates about the pole and may accept a plurality of tether attachments. Another version includes a single or double loop attached to the ball through which the tether extends. Yet another version includes a harness that encircles a ball. The ball may be a soccer ball, a baseball, a volleyball, an American football, a medicine ball or a basketball.

Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods are disclosed herein for aiding a user in learning and practicing techniques for performing a volley kick of a soccer ball. A volley kick training apparatus, as disclosed herein, is configured to position and hold a soccer ball to simulate to a user the scenario of kicking a soccer ball while in mid air to perform and achieve the volley kick.

Abstract: A sensor based tennis serve training apparatus includes a stand, a ball tosser coupled to said stand, an optical marker coupled to said stand and in electronic communications with said ball tosser, the optical marker to mark a ball strike zone, an ultrasonic tennis arm movement detector attached to said stand and in electronic communication with said ball tosser to detect arm movement, and a selectively timed ball discharging magazine attached to said stand and in electronic communication with said ball tosser. Said apparatus can further include an electronic communication control box coupled to said stand and mediating electronic communication between said magazine, ball tosser, ultrasonic tennis arm movement detector, and optical marker.

Abstract: A shuttlecock launching apparatus which comprises a storage for shuttlecocks, first and second launching wheels, a transfer assembly for transferring a single shuttlecock from the storage to the launching wheels, the transfer assembly being controlled by a cam wheel and cam follower which causes and guides the horizontal movement of the transfer assembly.

Abstract: A teaching aid device that helps baseball players learn how to properly swing and hit a ball includes a pair of batting tees placed in a linear pattern parallel to the bat swing. The batter contacts one ball and then the other during one swing. With balls on both tees and the tees at the same height, the hitter is aligned to hit the back or rear baseball up the middle. By hitting the rear ball, and then extending through contact and hitting the front ball, the hitter teaches him or herself to “get extension” through the baseball. If the hitter does not hit the front ball squarely, the device will indicate that he or she does not “follow through”. If the hitter hits the back ball only, this device provides instant feedback that the swing is not level.

Abstract: A soccer training device has a deployment trough defining a ball support surface for supporting a plurality of soccer balls, at least one sidewall, a deployment opening, and a back end opposite the deployment opening. The sidewall(s) of the deployment trough are constructed and arranged to restrain soccer balls between the deployment opening and the back end of the deployment trough. The training device has a plurality of legs connected to the deployment trough to suspend the deployment trough at a height above ground level. The training device has a release guide connected to the deployment trough proximate to the deployment opening. The release guide has a rolling surface and extends from the deployment trough. The release guide is constructed and arranged to guide each soccer ball from the deployment trough to the ground along the rolling surface.

Abstract: A weighted apparatus, such as a bat, bar, stick, racket, or club, includes added weight in one end of the apparatus to create an obviously heavy end, and thereby an unbalanced apparatus. The unbalanced apparatus gives the user the ability to create a heavy load to build strength by holding the light end of the device and a light load to build speed, endurance, and flexibility by holding the heavy end of the device. When swung holding the heavy end, such an unbalanced apparatus is uniquely effective for various sports practice regimens, certain game play, general exercise, physical rehabilitation, etc., to improve the user's strength and overall conditioning levels, to build hand speed and to promote a proper swing.

Abstract: A swing training method using a “flat bat” that breaks down swing motion into individual components. The flat bat has a handle connected to a flat member. The flat member has opposing flat surfaces that are beneficially color-coded to remind a user how to swing through a contact zone and follow through with a swing.

Abstract: A training device guides the throwing arm of a person in a ball throwing movement in a forward throwing direction. The training device comprises a base arranged to be supported on the ground, an upright support member extending upwardly from the base and a guide member on the upright support member which has a generally concave inner surface extending upwardly and forwardly from a generally vertical starting end to a generally horizontal releasing end. The user grasps a ball in the hand of their throwing arm and displaces the ball alongside the guide member from the starting end to the releasing end in a ball throwing movement to throw the ball in the forward throwing direction of the training device.

Abstract: A training device includes a plate assembly pivotally connected to a support member. The plate assembly includes an angled top plate that is removably mounted onto a flat balance plate. The support member includes a rectangular mounting bracket that is transversely disposed across an enlarged base, the balance plate directly teetering on the mounting bracket. In use, the training device can be used to train a hitter to maximize lower body power using sensory and auditory feedback. Specifically, the hitter centers his rear foot on the angled top plate which promotes weight loading on the inner portion of the rear leg. The hitter then initiates the hitting process by driving the lower body forward until the balance plate pivots forward and strikes the base, thereby providing the user with audible and tactile response. This lower body drive creates significant momentum that powers rotation of the bat through the hitting zone.

Abstract: A soccer training apparatus comprises a net capable of being placed in a deployed position, connected to or located adjacent a soccer goal frame and above a soccer playing surface, so as to cover a portion of a target opening bounded by the soccer goal frame and soccer playing surface. The net includes a peripheral edge located relative to the soccer goal frame so as to form a gap which extends around the net in the deployed position which permits a soccer ball to pass through and enter the soccer goal area.

Abstract: A batting practice apparatus able to be installed on any flat surface includes a base, a batting unit, an air-pump unit and at least one suction unit. The batting unit is mounted on the topside of the base while the air-pump unit is installed in the interior of the base and connected with the batting unit, and the suction unit is also positioned in the base and communicates with the air-pump unit. When receiving external force to swing, the batting unit will actuate the air-pump unit to pump air out of the suction unit and form a vacuum chamber between the suction unit and the flat surface, able to increase the suction strength of the suction unit and lighten the batting practice apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device designed to increase the accuracy of both the throwing, bouncing, propelling by stick and kicking of a baseball, football, lacrosse ball or soccer ball. The apparatus is constructed of a frame, for example of aluminum tubing. A net is attached to or hung over the aluminum tubing to provide a series of pouches aligned horizontally at various heights. These pouches provide target areas for a ball. The pouches may be designed to allow the ball to drop from a pouch it enters into a second pouch or to the bottom of the device for easy removal. The device is held by a base that may have wheels and may be steadied by one or more transverse supports running across the bottom or the back of the base.

Abstract: A sport instruction system for use in training for a sport requiring use of equipment having a gripping handle comprises a plurality of flexible equipment handle cue bands, each cue band displaying a unique visual cue, each cue band sized for securement to the gripping handle of the equipment in a location visible to the player of the sport when holding the gripping handle of the equipment, a plurality of sport specific instruction cards, each card having training theme indicia corresponding to one of the visual cues on the equipment handle cue bands, performance problem indicia related to the training theme indicia, and training instruction indicia related to the performance indicia, such that viewing the visual cue on one of the cue bands during training focuses the players attention on training instructions conveyed by the training instruction indicia on the instruction card having training theme corresponding to the visual cue.

Abstract: A sports training device comprising a handle of a sporting implement with a flexible, elastic band attached at one end at or proximate to one end of the handle. The opposite end of the band comprises a clip, loop, hook, or other fastening device, or combination thereof. The size, weight, and general configuration of the handle varies depending on the sport, and is generally intended to simulate the user holding the corresponding sporting equipment (e.g., baseball bat, softball bat, golf club, tennis racquet, hockey stick, lacrosse stick, cricket bat, and the like). During use, the band is attached to a relatively stable and fixed object, and the user performs the swing against the resistance created by the elastic band.

Abstract: A variable inertia bat weight training aid having a sleeve with radially divided, elongate pockets in which are permanently captured a plurality of weights. One end of the sleeve has a diameter sufficient to receive the barrel of a baseball bat but the other end of the sleeve includes a restricting band having a diameter sufficient to receive the handle of the bat but insufficient to pass over the barrel of the bat. Each weight within an associate pocket may be adjustably positioned along the length of the sleeve and secured in place by a restraining strap in order to vary the inertial resistance of the baseball bat and the perceived weight a batter experiences for warm-up and strength training exercises.

Abstract: A training device to limit or restrict a portion of a person's field of vision to improve a skill or the ability to perform a task. The training device assists in the training, practicing or learning various skills related to a certain activity, such as sports. The device includes a restrictor component and a control component. The control component is configured to be positioned in the mouth of a person such that the restrictor component extends outward to limit the field of vision.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to basketball shooting training articles. The article includes a sleeve having an elongate cylindrical body with an opening at a proximal end and an opening at a distal end for passage of a player's arm therethrough. The sleeve includes release indicia located adjacent the proximal end of the article so that when the article is worn the release indicia is located between the player's elbow and shoulder, preferably at the player's bicep, and more preferably at the upper portion of the player's bicep. The sleeve may also include alignment indicia for aligning the player's arm and basketball with a target. A method for training proper basketball shooting technique and a method of constructing a basketball shooting training device are also provided.

Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a sports training apparatus for accurately simulating the football maneuver known as the ‘cut-block.’ The present invention comprises a track, a rolling cart fitted to the track, an upright blocking pillar connected to the cart, and a triggering system for lowering and raising the blocking pillar at specified intervals in order to simulate the cut-block maneuver. The present invention additionally includes a stopping mechanism for stopping the movement of the cart.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various inventive methods and apparatus related to an apparatus and method for teaching bunting techniques to baseball or softball players. A bunting mat may be provided that contains a plurality of lines that aide a player in better understanding bunting techniques, including aiding a player with appropriately positioning their feet for a bunt.

Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for improving performance in sports where a swinging motion is needed. In some embodiments, a swing resistance device may be attached to or be built into elongated sport apparatus, such as racquets, clubs, bats, sticks, and the like, configured to resist a swinging motion of the sport apparatus by capturing air and utilizing a force of air resistance, similar to a parachute. The swing resistance device is generally attached to the elongated sport apparatus by coupling components, such as bearings, that allow the swing resistance device to freely rotate around the effective longitudinal axis of the elongated sport apparatus. During a swing, air resistance creates dynamic forces that over time may improve swing power and path.

Abstract: A sports activity swing trainer having a concave curved surface area on which a person stands to practice a swing for a sports activity.

Abstract: A structure motivated by an impulse to slide over a surface, including: an impulse-receiving portion for receiving the impulse, the impulse-receiving portion defining a section of a generally semi-hemispherical structure and produced from a foam material patterned to represent at least a portion of a sports ball; and a sliding portion, coupled to the impulse-receiving portion, for sliding contact with the surface on a contact surface of the sliding portion responsive to the impulse the contact surface having a generally planar smooth surface having a periphery surrounded by an extension of the impulse receiving portion, wherein a tumbling of a coupled combination of the impulse-receiving portion and the sliding portion is inhibited by shifting a center of gravity downward by a greater weighting of the sliding portion relative to the impulse-receiving portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a softball/baseball pitcher's pitching practice device, and to a method for using the device. It is a simple and inexpensive pitching practice device useful for indicating the boundaries of a typical strike zone to softball and baseball pitchers. More particularly, this invention relates to a pitching practice device having a strike zone indicator that can be conveniently adjusted to simulate the strike zones of batters of various heights.

Abstract: A strike training device having a rectangular front face, on which are positioned a plurality of graphic striking targets and an visibly defined strike zone. The batter is able to train to mentally envision the strike zone with the help of the visual aids on the front surface. The batter increases in strength and stamina by hitting into the shock absorbing striking surface. The batters judgment and accuracy are improved by quickly identifying a designated striking target, determining if the target is inside the strike zone, and if so, hitting the target.

Abstract: A swing training system for improving muscle memory and weight transfer during a swinging motion. The swing training system comprises a first device and a second device for a user to stand upon raised flat summits on each device placed approximately shoulder width apart. The user then performs a swinging motion corresponding to a sport such as golf, tennis or baseball while maintaining balance on the devices. Such balance will be committed to muscle memory and will allow for better swings when in actual play.

Abstract: A system and method for improving a player's efficiency in shooting by providing a player with various shooting challenge routines at which a player makes either a total number of shots or a total number shots in a row. Statistics regarding the player's performance are stored, printed and/or evaluated and the player can use the information to improve his or her efficiency at one or more of the plurality of different locations where the player shoots the basketball.

Abstract: One embodiment includes a swing aid to help athletes (e.g., golfers, batters, or tennis players) learn how to properly hinge their wrists during a swing of a golf club, bat, or racquet. A device comprises a plurality of weights (e.g., balls) included in a conduit. In a low first swing position the balls are located together at a distal end of the conduit. In a high second swing position the balls are located together at a proximal end of the conduit. When transferring from the second position to the first position the balls make a first sound (which indicates improper wrist action) or a second plurality of sounds (which indicates proper wrist action) based on when the user rotates the device about the proximal end of the conduit (e.g., unhinges the wrist). Other embodiments are described herein.

Abstract: A training aid is attached to the rear region of a user's helmet and alerts the player with an audible beep when the player's head drops into a downward unsafe or improper position. A printed circuit board containing a horn, battery and tilt switch is located within a protective housing attached by an adhesive to the rear region of the player's helmet. An external switch enables the player to manually turn the circuit ON or OFF.

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

Abstract: A swing analyzing apparatus includes at least an angular velocity sensor, an impact detection section, an angular velocity information calculation section, and an impact state judgment section. The impact detection section detects the timing of impact in a swing of a sporting good. The angular velocity information calculation section calculates at least one of the amount of change in angular velocity with respect to a predetermined axis in a predetermined period after the impact timing and the greatest value of the angular velocity based on data outputted form the angular velocity sensor. The impact state judgment section judges the state of impact based on the result calculated by the angular velocity information calculation section.

Abstract: A training device for ball sports includes a frame member which supports both an elastic surface for rebounding a ball, along with an inelastic surface which absorbs the kinetic energy of the ball and allows it to drop to the ground, which is designed as a combination apparatus that includes both a ball rebounding surface and a ball stopping surface, in order to provide a variety of training activities and which may be transported easily by a coach or an individual using it for practice.

Abstract: The Basketball free throw practice guide includes a flag that extends vertically from an assembly that attaches onto a basketball rim. The assembly includes a flag base, support, and main base that inter-connect via a bolt or screw. The main base has a groove that is sealed off via the flag base to enclose the cross-section of the basketball rim therein. The assembly is weighted and self-ballasts when installed upon said basketball rim such that the flag will return to a vertical position upon impact by an object such as a basketball. The flag acts as a guide to teach proper basketball trajectory into the basketball rim.

Abstract: The present invention is a training baseball. The training baseball includes elongated fins that cause the training baseball to have a curved flight when thrown in a straight-throw motion. The present invention also includes a method for using the training baseball.

Abstract: An inertia-based baseball bat swing indicator, whether built into a baseball bat or retrofitted onto an existing bat, which visually indicates by inertia-propelled beads in separate grooves along the apparatus whether the alignment and body mechanics of the batter are proper during the bat swing.

Abstract: A basketball return apparatus for collecting and returning basketballs includes a ball collector, with a top opening and a bottom opening, and a ball returner. The ball returner is connected to a base for receiving balls from the bottom opening of the ball collector and returning the balls to a user. A rotatable support mechanism connects the ball collector to the base so that the ball collector is rotatable with respect to the base and the ball returner.

Abstract: A baseball batting swing trainer teaches proper bat swinging and ball hitting technique. The swing trainer includes a first handle attached to the first end of a shaft. The second end of the shaft includes a head having a diameter greater than the shaft diameter and less than the diameter of the head of a conventional baseball bat. A cylindrical second handle slidable between the first and second shaft ends. The second handle is sized to accommodate all five fingers on one of the user's hands in a batting grip. A process for teaching a person the proper technique for swinging a baseball bat using the swing trainer is also provided. When performed properly, the process produces an audible sound by striking the second handle against the stop while the head of the bat is passing through the user's strike zone and directly over the user's forward foot.

Abstract: A hockey training device includes a substantially elevated panel and a substantially horizontally positioned board having a top playing surface on which a puck is to be moved, following instantly on-and-off conditions of lights distributed in desired locations on the playing surface. The elevated panel displays the locations of the lights with the instant on-and-off condition of the lights to guide the player in a head-up position, to move the puck to the location of the light which is currently turned on, on the playing surface.

Abstract: A lacrosse stick has four discrete optically discernible colored zones at specified positions along the shaft of the lacrosse stick corresponding to preferred hand positions for different lacrosse stick maneuvers. Zone stops are disposed between the different colored zones and are formed from a material that provides a unique tactile feel as compared to the colored zones. A coach can issue training instructions consisting of two colors corresponding to the colors of the zones to identify preferred hand positions for a lacrosse training exercise.

Abstract: An intra-digital orthosis for use in shooting a ball such as a basketball comprising: index and ring finger receptacles each having an aperture; a middle finger backstop; and first and second shafts joining the index and ring finger receptacles to the middle finger backstop. The orthosis preferably spaces apart and/or encourages flexion of the distal phalanges of at least a user's index and ring fingers and/or facilitates an arch angle between those fingers and the user's middle finger that approximates the curvature of the ball being thrown so as to facilitate and enhance the user's ability to position the hand when shooting the ball.

Abstract: Basketball training systems and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a basketball training apparatus includes a first rim and a second rim. The first rim has a center and the second rim has a center. The first rim rotates about its center and the second rim revolves about the center of the first rim.

Abstract: A batting or ball practice cage has one or more frame members with a net attached over the frame. Frame members may be assembled having springs or elbows at the corner. A pitching machine may be aligned with the cage at one end.

Abstract: The invention relates to a training device for training a person who uses the training device in a type of ball sport, said device having at least two ball receivers (11), which face the user and are intended to interact with a ball, and at least two ball dispensers (11) for conveying a ball to the user. The invention provides at least one optical and/or acoustic signal transmitter which, by emitting an optical and/or acoustic signal, indicates one of the ball receivers (11) to the user as the selected target for interacting with a ball conveyed to the user by one of the ball dispensers (11).

Abstract: An apparatus to allow a user to practice throwing a sports object without the need for multiple throwing objects or a throwing partner is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a sack having an open end and a closed end, and a strap attached to the open end. The user may insert his hand, holding the sports object, into the open end of the of the sack and then strap the apparatus to his or her wrist using the strap. The user can then repeatedly throw the sports object at full range of motion and the sports object will be deposited in the sack, easily retrievable by the user for repeated throwing.

Abstract: A rubber or synthetic texture sleeve that fits loosely over the existing grip. It is made from typical grip material for the application with the exception of having a smooth or textured interior and being oversized for the handle. The sleeve may be used with an interior liner between the handle and the grip for additional cushioning. The length of the sleeve will vary, but can be cut to fit the specific application. The sleeve fits loosely around the bat grip and does not replace or modify the existing grip or bat handle. The degree of twist is determined by the give in the material used allowing for a stronger grip because the friction normally generated from rotating hands around a stationary grip is reduced dramatically. The sleeve reduces vibration because of the increased padding and ability to have a stronger grip.

Abstract: A palm pad device, for use as a training device and to be fastened to the palm of a user, includes a segregate pad having a size-adjustable elastic pad and a fastening member for fastening the segregate pad onto the palm. The palm pad device further includes a sensing recorder disposed on the fastening member for sensing and recording movement data of the palm. The elastic pad includes a thickness pad and a width pad for allowing adjustments in the thickness and width of the segregate pad. A basketball training system using the palm pad device includes a basket sensor for recording the status of successful shots, a sensing recorder disposed on the palm pad device, and a central management apparatus for receiving data transmitted from the sensing recorder and the basket sensor for conducting analysis to thereby generate a corresponding feedback event.

Abstract: A training device for hitting a ball includes a spiral pipe and a base. The spiral pipe is composed of a plurality of dual-awl ring members connected together to form an adjustable pipe. The spiral pipe includes a top pipe at an upper end thereof to connect with a socket, a bottom pipe and a positioning sleeve at a lower end thereof to connect with a through hole and a stepped hole of the base. The base is in the shape of a home plate. The base has the through hole at a central portion thereof and the stepped trough underneath the through hole. The base includes at least two plates having relative connecting surfaces which are formed with notches and protrusions to engage with each other. The protrusions are engaged with the notches for assembling the two plates to become one-piece. The bottom pipe is inserted in the through hole with the first stop ring to be blocked on the through hole. The positioning sleeve is inserted in the stepped trough with the second stop ring being secured in the stepped trough.

Abstract: A device for training hockey goaltenders including a base having an ice engaging surface to reduce sliding on the ice, a plurality of side panels arranged around a perimeter of the base and secured directly or indirectly to the base, each side panel having an outer surface adapted to deflect a hockey puck directed at it, and wherein a first side panel outer surface is made of a material that is different from a second side panel outer surface.

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