Abstract: A weight sled for fitness training that uses a plurality of resistance mechanisms to allow for adjustment of resistance. Depending on the configuration, wheel skid or slippage control may be provided by electronic monitoring of the angular velocity of one or more wheels and electronic adjustment of the resistance of any skidding or slipping wheels, bias correction and directional control may be provided by using a plurality of resistance mechanisms via differential adjustment of the resistance of the plurality of resistance mechanisms, and differential adjustment of the resistance mechanisms may be used to manually or automatically offset a directional bias in the sled, ground surface, or the athlete's abilities to keep the sled moving in a linear motion, and to prevent wheel skid on surfaces with differing friction coefficients.

Abstract: A training device that is easily and temporarily attachable to any existing sled training device. The training device includes a flexible, elongated plank that resides between an athlete's legs and helps train the athlete to maintain a proper stance width while blocking or pushing a sled. An embodiment includes a magnet secured to the plank at a first end of the plank. The magnet engages the sled and is detached from the sled when the athlete pushes the sled with an improperly narrow stance width. As a result, the athlete experiences a tactile and visual aid to distinguish between proper and improper stance width while pushing a sled.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus with base horizontal members forming a base polygon and ceiling horizontal members forming a ceiling polygon and a plurality of vertical members mounted at their lower ends to the base polygon and mounting the ceiling polygon spaced from the base polygon. A human interface permits athletes to exercise, and wheels mounted to the base polygon permit transport of the apparatus and attached equipment to a field or court. The base polygon includes two parallel skids and the human interface may be a pad permitting an athlete to push the apparatus horizontally when none or two of the wheels contact the ground. When no wheels contact the ground, the apparatus may be used in the manner of a weight rack, because the apparatus will not move along the ground without substantial force being applied.

Abstract: A training sled configurable for adding weights in some embodiments to increase friction and provide for weight-training by lifting portions of the sled. Sled components are slidably or pivotably connected to permit lifting a shoulder member of the sled to different heights and to achieve an optimal training angle. The training sled having an accelerometer, sensor unit and display for sensing, determining and displaying the force of impact and movement of the training sled.

Abstract: A sledmill exercise apparatus. The apparatus has a frame with two spaced apart upright supports, which is stabilized to prevent tipping. The frame has a spacer bar between the supports and is moveably connected to it to vary the distance between the bar and the ground. The frame has two handles moveably connected to the bar to vary the distance between the handles. The bar is lockable in one position and the handles are lockable in a holding position. An endless drive belt with a driving surface contacts a user's foot. The supports are sufficiently spaced apart to permit location of the belt adjacent the frame. The bar position and the holding position are such that the user achieves a desired biomechanical position which allows forward and backward resistant movement of the belt relative to the frame.

Abstract: A weight training sled 100 characterized by one or more of (A) rotatable wheels 130 in contact with ground, (B) curvilinear push handles 140 with comfortably spaced, and inwardly and/or downwardly angled hand grips 143, and (C) an elevated tow hook 160.

Abstract: A mobile exercise device having a front wheel connected via a front wheel mount to a weight carriage that extends rearwardly from the front wheel mount. A weight loading member is mounted to the weight carriage and is operable to receive exercise weights and to support the exercise weights so that the exercise weights move as the weight carriage moves. A user engagement member includes a first end for engaging hips of a user and a second end for connecting to the weight carriage. Lifting the weight carriage via the user engagement member causes the weight loading member to be lifted and to rotate with respect to the front wheel.

Abstract: Apparatus for teaching proper tackling technique to a football player includes a number of framework segments pivotally connected at framework segment ends. A latch mechanism in the framework is disengaged during tackling to prevent pivoting between two of the framework segments until a third segment with a tackling pad pivots a predetermined degree.

Abstract: A training sled including a pair of nonlinear runners is disclosed arranged in parallel relative to a center axis and a plane. A head crossbar may extend between first ends of the runners and may be joined thereto so as to form a U-shaped member with the runners. A weight bearing member may be affixed to and extend between the pair of nonlinear runners near mid-sections thereof. A rear crossbar may extend between and may be disposed above the plane of the runners proximate second ends thereof and may be joined thereto opposite the head crossbar.

Abstract: A training and exercise device is provided to aid in proper positioning, technique, and muscle memory for different sports and exercise related activities. The training device includes a cylindrical barrel member. A sled or sleds are connected to the barrel member such that rotation and movement of the barrel member will in turn move the sled or sleds. The sleds are bi-directional such that they are able to move in both forward and rear directions, which will allow the training device to be used in multiple directions without having to reorient the entire device between exercises. The barrel device, sled or sleds may also be configured to adjust the weights thereof to increase or decrease the resistance of the movement of the training device to accommodate for different user's size, abilities, and intended outcome.

Abstract: An apparatus for muscle conditioning comprises a supporting body, a hood-shaped pad, moveable relative to the body, and resistive means in the form of a weight stack and suspension mechanism. The weight stack is coupled to the hood-shaped pad via the suspension mechanism, such that a resistive force can be applied against movement of the hood-shaped pad from a first position relative to the body to a second position relative to the body. The apparatus enables the conditioning of the muscles required for successful rugby scrummaging.

Abstract: A training sled and service promote proper form when running. The training sled is configurable for adding weights in some embodiments to increase friction and provide for weight-training by lifting portions of the sled. Sled components are slidably or pivotably connected to permit lifting a shoulder member of the sled to different heights for exercise, and to achieve an optimal training angle for an athlete to train.

Abstract: A training system and method for a football blocking sled having a plurality of vertically extending, laterally spaced apart pads supported on a base. At least one sensor is provided for each pad and a communications link is provided from each sensor to a control and display device. A player is positioned in front of each pad, and a common start signal is generated, prompting the players to simultaneously contact the respective pads. The sensors measure the elapsed time between the prompt signal and the respective contacts. The device displays a figure of merit commensurate with the measured elapsed times, indicating deviation from simultaneous contact. In a preferred embodiment, differences of impact force and blocking power among players can also be displayed.

Abstract: A mobile blocking trainer allows offensive football players to practice blocking a defender by moving the blocking trainer in the in the manner required to properly execute different blocks. The mobile blocking trainer includes a strike area intended to simulate an opponent's shoulder area, the target for a proper block. A fabric jersey may be added to this strike area. A wider base is mounted on wheels permitting movement in any direction. Weights are added for resistance, and the weights may be shifted to simulate different types of resistance exerted by an opponent. A flap may be attached to and detachable from the base so that proper footwork can be developed.

Abstract: Tackle practice apparatus (1) comprises an inflatable dummy element (3) in the shape of a person, and is releasably coupled to an inflatable ground engaging sled (4) from which a rope (5) extends to a harness (6) which is releasably coupleable to a person for pulling the tackle practice apparatus across a playing pitch for tackle practice by a player. The dummy element (3) comprises a base element (9) and an inflatable central bladder (7) extending upwardly from the base element (9). Two inflatable lower peripheral bladders (10) and two inflatable upper peripheral bladders (13) extend around the central bladder (7). The lower peripheral bladders (10) are located below a waist high position (14). The base element (9) comprises an inflatable first base bladder (15) which is inflatable with water to provide ballast to the dummy element (3), and an inflatable second base bladder (16) above the first base bladder (15) from which the central bladder (7) extends.

Abstract: An apparatus for training an athlete. The apparatus comprises an arm frame having a first and second end, wherein the first end contains a wheel unit and the second end contains an engaging pad member, and a support frame attached to the arm frame. The support frame has an upper lateral member in axial alignment with the wheel unit and a leg member, wherein the leg member contains a distal end that is attached to the arm frame and a proximal end that engages the ground. A horn is included on the lateral member and is adapted to receive a weight.

Abstract: A training sled including a pair of nonlinear runners of tubular construction arranged in parallel relative to a center axis and a plane. A head crossbar of tubular construction may extend between first ends of the runners and may be joined thereto so as to form a continuous tubular U-shaped member with the runners. A weight bearing member may be affixed to and extend between the pair of nonlinear runners near mid-sections thereof. A rear crossbar of tubular construction may extend between and may be disposed above the plane of the runners proximate second ends thereof and may be joined thereto opposite the head crossbar, so as to present a rearward facing surface against which force may be applied. The training sled may include a removable handlebar in a variety of configurations. A ski accessory may be configured to removably attach to the training sled. The ski accessory may include a pair of nonlinear skis arranged in parallel relative to a center axis and a plane.

Abstract: A blocking sled includes an arm movable relative to a sled frame and a blocking pad movable relative to the arm.

Abstract: A range of motion assembly for a blocking sled includes a pivot assembly to provide a range of motion and a cartridge system to restrict the range of motion.

Abstract: The disclosure includes a variety of thrustback sleds. In one embodiment, the disclosure provides a thrust back training sled, including a base including a plurality of horizontal runners, a generally horizontal rail assembly disposed on the base, a trolley assembly disposed on the generally horizontal rail assembly, the trolley assembly including a plurality of rollers received by the rail assembly, the trolley being adapted to translate from a first, forward position to a second, rearward position along the generally horizontal rail assembly.

Abstract: A practice dummy comprising a remotely controlled, self-propelled base unit supporting a detachable upper body enables athletes to practice football skills against a dummy that can simulate the speed and mobility of a human player.

Abstract: A motion tackler for simulating an opponent during tackle training. The motion tackler has an elongated frame with a first side and a second side. A dummy module is attached to the first side of the elongated frame. A handle frame is attached to the second side of the elongated frame. A plurality of wheels are attached to the elongated frame. The motion tackler further has a resistance bar capable of engaging with the ground upon the dummy module being lifted.

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: A blocking sled includes a sled frame, an arm mounted to said sled frame and a blocking pad having at least one handhold mounted to the arm.

Abstract: Tackle practice apparatus (1) comprises an inflatable dummy element (3) in the shape of a person, and is releasably coupled to an inflatable ground engaging sled (4) from which a rope (5) extends to a harness (6) which is releasably coupleable to a person for pulling the tackle practice apparatus across a playing pitch for tackle practice by a player. The dummy element (3) comprises a base element (9) and an inflatable central bladder (7) extending upwardly from the base element (9). Two inflatable lower peripheral bladders (10) and two inflatable upper peripheral bladders (13) extend around the central bladder (7). The lower peripheral bladders (10) are located below a waist high position (14). The base element (9) comprises an inflatable first base bladder (15) which is inflatable with water to provide ballast to the dummy element (3), and an inflatable second base bladder (16) above the first base bladder (15) from which the central bladder (7) extends.

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: The football pass receiving trainer includes a cord extending between a first support and a second support and includes a pad selectively positionable along the length of the cord, wherein the pad is sized so a receiver must catch a football around the pad with the hands and extended arms and elbows. The cord stretches upon contact with the foam pad and is selectively tensioned between the first support and the second support. The football pass receiving trainer is usable as a stand-alone unit via a free-standing base and plurality of slidingly engageable feet or through use of a hook and stabilizing cord that cooperate to selectively secure the support to the chain link fence.

Abstract: A blocking sled includes a first main blocking pad reciprocable on a frame between extended and retracted positions. When a lineman hits the main blocking pad, it is moved to the position of retraction and when the lineman releases the pad, it extends back to its original un-retracted position. In association with each main blocking pad, an auxiliary pad is provided that in one position closely overlies and extends forward of the main blocking pad in its extended position. The auxiliary blocking pad is pivotably mounted to the frame and is latched in the position closely overlying and extending forward of the main blocking pad. An actuator facilitates release of a latching mechanism for the auxiliary pad and moves along with a support rod for the main blocking pad. When the rod is reciprocated, eventually it engages the latch of the auxiliary pad and releases that latch causing a biasing means to pivot the auxiliary pad up and forward with respect to its position when latched.

Abstract: A blocking sled includes a first main blocking pad reciprocable on a frame between extended and retracted positions. When a lineman hits the main blocking pad, it is moved to the position of retraction and when the lineman releases the pad, it extends back to its original un-retracted position. In association with each main blocking pad, an auxiliary pad is provided that in one position closely overlies and extends forward of the main blocking pad in its extended position. The auxiliary blocking pad is pivotably mounted to the frame and is latched in the position closely overlying and extending forward of the main blocking pad. An actuator facilitates release of a latching mechanism for the auxiliary pad and moves along with a support rod for the main blocking pad. When the rod is reciprocated, eventually it engages the latch of the auxiliary pad and releases that latch causing a biasing means to pivot the auxiliary pad up and forward with respect to its position when latched.

Abstract: A range of motion assembly for a blocking sled includes a pivot assembly to provide a range of motion and a cartridge system to restrict the range of motion.

Abstract: A blocking sled includes an arm movable relative to a sled frame and a blocking pad movable relative to the arm.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing and/or training persons, particularly athletes, with regard to reaction time, peripheral vision, foot speed, agility and (in some cases) strength of hand punch/speed or impact. In addition to testing and training persons, the method & apparatus can improve response and/or reaction time to verbal/audible stimuli. Testing and training can be applied in similar fashion to individuals, or groups of individuals, e.g. part or all of a sport team, under direction of a coach or of a testing operator/technician. An initiating stimulus (illumination of a light signal or motion of a ‘mounted” ball) provides a start signal to test subjects, who respond to the stimulus, as by touching or striking a blow to a target. Either of these actions will initiate one or more conditions which occur in a predetermined pattern, e.g. to start a timer which is halted by sensing the touch or blow.

Abstract: A motion tackler for simulating an opponent during tackle training. The motion tackler has an elongated frame with a first side and a second side. A dummy module is attached to the first side of the elongated frame. A handle frame is attached to the second side of the elongated frame. A plurality of wheels are attached to the elongated frame. The motion tackler further has a resistance bar capable of engaging with the ground upon the dummy module being lifted.

Abstract: The tackling dummy includes a slide having a ground-engaging skid and an upward extending frame configured to receive a channel formed in an anthropomorphic body having a front side and a relatively narrower profile side. The channel extends upwardly into the anthropomorphic body from a lower side thereof and engages the upwardly extending frame for positioning the anthropomorphic body in one of two primary configurations relative to the slide. These configurations are rotationally spaced about the longitudinal axis of the channel approximately 90° from one another.

Abstract: A weight sled apparatus useful for strength training and simulating the resistance of an opponent during a blocking event has a tubular construction forming a U-shaped member having a pair of parallel legs which serve as runners. A weight bearing member affixed to and extending between the pair of runners allows mounting of removable mount weights on a horn projecting therefrom. A crossbar extending between the runner ends presents a rearward facing surface at least 8 inches above the plane of the runners against which force may be applied. An optional handlebar attachment presents a rearward facing surface against which force may applied in a range from 8 inches to 40 inches above the plane of the runners and normal thereto. The weight sled affords a trainee multiple force application surfaces near the center of gravity of the sled and at differing vertical heights, enabling a more realistic simulation of the resistance presented during a blocking event.

Abstract: Disclosed is a training apparatus for training players involved in contact sports, such as football. The training apparatus includes a frame assembly, a first driving mechanism, a drifting mechanism, a second driving mechanism, and a dummy. The frame assembly is configured to support the first driving mechanism, the drifting mechanism, the second driving mechanism, and the dummy thereon. The first driving mechanism is configured to move the dummy in a longitudinal direction, the second driving mechanism is configured to move the dummy in a transverse direction, and the drifting mechanism is configured to move the dummy along a vertical axis of the frame assembly. Further disclosed is a training system including a training apparatus and a controlling module. The controlling module is operatively coupled to the training apparatus for controlling the longitudinal direction movement, the transverse direction movement, and the vertical axis movement of the dummy.

Abstract: A weight sled apparatus useful for strength training and simulating the resistance of an opponent during a blocking event has a tubular construction forming a U-shaped member having a pair of parallel legs which serve as runners. A weight bearing member affixed to and extending between the pair of runners allows mounting of removable mount weights on a horn projecting therefrom. A crossbar extending between the runner ends presents a rearward facing surface at least 8 inches above the plane of the runners against which force may applied. An optional handlebar attachment presents a rearward facing surface against which force may applied in a range from 8 inches to 40 inches above the plane of the runners and normal thereto. The weight sled affords a trainee multiple force application surfaces near the center of gravity of the sled and at differing vertical heights, enabling a more realistic simulation of the resistance presented during a blocking event.

Abstract: A sport activity screen is disclosed for use in a selected sport to simulate the presence and position of actual players in that sport during training and practice exercises. A sports activity screen according to the present invention comprises a base unit which includes a main horizontal support bar and a plurality of bracing legs which are attached to the main horizontal support bar to support the main horizontal support bar. A sport activity screen according to the present invention also includes at least one frame structure where each said frame structure is operatively connected to the main horizontal support bar. In one embodiment, a sport activity screen according to the present invention comprises a plurality of frame structures which are operatively connected to the main horizontal support bar at spaced intervals along the length of the bar.

Abstract: A training device for use by a lacrosse player to practice checking an offensive player includes a main post extending upwardly from a base. An arm is operatively coupled to the main post and rotatable about a fixed point intermediate its proximal and distal ends. The arm includes a wrist near its distal end for holding a lacrosse stick. An activating member is mounted to the main post for separating a user from the arm's distal end. An actuator is coupled to the arm's distal member and to the activating member such that the arm is caused to move when a user attacks the activating member. The actuator may include rack and pinion gears for translating a linear force upon the activating member into a rotational force upon the arm. A spiral spring and cam provide for oscillating movement of the arm.

Abstract: A weight sled apparatus useful for strength training and simulating the resistance of an opponent during a blocking event has a tubular construction forming a U-shaped member having a pair of parallel legs which serve as runners. A weight bearing member affixed to and extending between the pair of runners allows mounting of removable mount weights on a horn projecting therefrom. A crossbar extending between the runner ends presents a rearward facing surface at least 8 inches above the plane of the runners against which force may applied. An optional handlebar attachment presents a rearward facing surface against which force may applied in a range from 8 inches to 40 inches above the plane of the runners and normal thereto. The weight sled affords a trainee multiple force application surfaces near the center of gravity of the sled and at differing vertical heights, enabling a more realistic simulation of the resistance presented during a blocking event.

Abstract: A method of training a user to swing a battering ram where the user is positioned at the forward end of a training device. The training device comprises a support frame, a piston rod slidably mounted to the support frame, and a striking plate affixed to the piston rod. The striking plate is positioned at a forward end of the training device when the piston rod is in a pre-impact position. The resistance of a secured door is replicated in the training device by biasing the piston rod toward the forward end of the training device. The piston rod slidably moves rearward upon each impact of the battering ram and then returns to its pre-impact position in time to receive the next impact of the battering ram. The user repeatedly swings the battering ram impacting the training device without stopping or pausing between swings to hone proper technique, mechanics and timing of the swings.

Abstract: Disclosed is a training apparatus for training players involved in contact sports, such as football. The training apparatus includes a frame assembly, a first driving mechanism, a drifting mechanism, a second driving mechanism, and a dummy. The frame assembly is configured to support the first driving mechanism, the drifting mechanism, the second driving mechanism, and the dummy thereon. The first driving mechanism is configured to move the dummy in a longitudinal direction, the second driving mechanism is configured to move the dummy in a transverse direction, and the drifting mechanism is configured to move the dummy along a vertical axis of the frame assembly. Further disclosed is a training system including a training apparatus and a controlling module. The controlling module is operatively coupled to the training apparatus for controlling the longitudinal direction movement, the transverse direction movement, and the vertical axis movement of the dummy.

Abstract: A football training system and method for training a player football technique, strength and endurance. The system provides an engagement member that can be engaged and driven upward and substantially simultaneously rearward. The system includes a life-size simulator, dummy or engagement member for providing a true-to-life training experience. The system is capable of providing increased resistance to the player as the player drives the dummy and also provides a speed and power indication to the player, his or her coach or trainer.

Abstract: A collapsible ball game practice device is comprised of a plurality of sections, each section above a lower section being substantially collapsible into the lower section. Detent structure is provided on an upper portion of each lower section and a lower portion of each upper section to secure each upper section when raised to its raised condition. A mounting structure is provided on the bottom of the lowermost section for releasably securing the device to a basketball playing surface. Arms may be rotated to various positions. The arms may be collapsed and slid on a carrier into the uppermost section. A head structure may also be slid into the uppermost section. The sections may be collapsed such that all of them may be collapsed into the lowest section. A handle is provided in the top of the head structure for carrying the entire assembly. The collapsed device may be easily transported and/or stored. The device is particularly useful as a defensive dummy in practicing the games of basketball and volleyball.

Abstract: A pass rush trainer has a rigid base that is height adjustable. Two coil torsion springs are mounted on the base and extend upwardly therefrom. At their upper extents, the springs are coupled to a frame including two outwardly extending arms which support the arms of a dummy or pad that is mounted on it. The distance between the arms is easily adjustable so that a pass rusher can practice against differing degrees of “wing span” of an offensive lineman. The pad itself includes a torso that is draped over the base and springs of the inventive device, has a portion simulating the shoulders and head of a pass blocker, and includes two padded arms mounted over the arms of the frame.

Abstract: A device which is utilized during practice or other informal situation to teach a football player such as a quarterback or kicker to deliver a football around or over one or preferably a group of linemen. In one embodiment, the device includes a mechanism capable of moving at least one figure, simulative of a human athlete, from an inactive position to an active position which is adapted to mimic predetermined characteristics of a defensive line.

Abstract: A football practice device having pads in the shape of a player with feet on the ground and leaning forward with bend knees. The device is preferably a sled having S-shaped pads with a resilient synthetic core in which an S-shaped steel support is centrally embedded.

Abstract: A football training sled for improving players blocking skills has an elongated main frame in the shape of a pan with a flat bottom and a tipped up rear end. A dummy module is secured to the front end of the main frame and a single wheel is mounted rearwardly of the front end and midway between the laterally opposite sides of the main frame. When a player strikes and raises the dummy of the dummy module, the front end of the sled is raised so as to be supported on its wheel as the player drives the sled rearwardly. Wings may be provided on the main frame to prevent the sled from being tipped over sideways. In a second embodiment of the invention two dummy modules are supported on the front of the main frame of the sled and a football position device is used to simulate the snap of a football.

Abstract: A sled exerciser used, for example, in tackling or blocking practice in football training, comprises a sled, slidably attached to a frame, where the sled includes padding on one side. An adjustable weight mechanism is attached to the sled and provides continuous resistance against an individual as the sled is pushed, as in tackle/blocking practice.

Abstract: A football training apparatus provides for simultaneous strength and technique training to improve player strength as applied functionally to blocking. A frame structure includes left and right movable arms with strike pads mounted on the distal ends thereof The height of the strike pads is adjustable for differently sized players. A variable resistance mechanism provides a quantitative resistance to rearward movement of the arms. The frame structure is mounted on left and right rear wheels. When the left and right strike pads are driven rearward a sufficient distance a brake actuator mechanism is engaged to release independently operable brake mechanisms in the left and right rear wheels, respectively. Handles, with hand brake release mechanisms, may be provided on the rear end of the frame structure to allow the apparatus to be pushed without engaging the strike pads.