Abstract: A kit of parts for playing a capture the flag game in low-light conditions is disclosed herein. The kit can include a number of flags, each of the flags carrying one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) operable to provide a visual signal; a number of territory markers, each of the territory markers carrying one or more LEDs operable to provide a visual signal; and a number of jail markers, each of the jail markers carrying one or more LEDs operable to provide a visual signal. The flags, the territory markers, and the jail markers are configured to be selectively disposable upon or attachable to the terrain.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure can comprise systems and devices for improving a player's tennis swing timing. In some embodiment, the systems and devices can comprise a first band having a first sleeve affixed thereto and a second band having a second sleeve affixed thereto. An inner tubing can extend substantially between the first end of the first sleeve and the first end of the second sleeve. Additionally, the first sleeve can house a first magnetic component and the second sleeve can oppose the first sleeve and house a second magnetic component. The first and second magnetic components can be configured to transition the first and second sleeves from an unconnected state, in which at least a portion of the inner tubing is disposed between the first sleeve and the second sleeve, to a connected state.

Abstract: Training devices, methods of using training devices and systems involving training devices are described. Training devices may include an attachment unit which includes a swivel, a plurality of support members, a first member and a second member. A training device may be configured to a first device, the first device may be moved with the training device configured to it in a desired motion and in as many repetitions as desired, and the training device may be removed from the first device. Training devices may be used in conjunction with hand units, strap units and other devices and/or appendages.

Abstract: An electronic device that automatically counts and measures power of the impacts of a tennis ball with a tennis racket during play. The housing of said device comprises a mounting apparatus which is mechanically configured so that a player using said device will be able to easily mount said device on a tennis racket or on the player's arm. Said device is electronically configured so that a player using said device is able to keep a count of the type of tennis strokes that are struck by the player during the course of play. Said device is further configured so that it is able to count the total number of strokes hit by a tennis player. Said device is further electronically configured so that a player using said device is able to determine the amount of force that a tennis ball makes against a tennis racket with each contact with a tennis ball. Said device is further configured with a display that will allow for a player using said device to read information provided by said device.

Abstract: In a first aspect, a system for monitoring a swing is provided that includes a wireless device adapted to couple to a swinging object and to provide information indicative of a characteristic of the swinging object. The wireless device is a cellular telephone or personal digital assistant (PDA). Numerous other aspects are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and a method for gathering ball game data and in particular tennis match data in real time. To this end the system comprises a hands-free voice receiving means (4) adapted to receive words spoken by the player (2) wearing the receiving means. The words are then analyzed by an analyzing means adapted to analyze a dedicated ball game vocabulary used by the player. The analysis of the spoken words translates these words into digital match data. This data can be displayed, at least as score of the game by a display (10). More elaborate match data information can be gathered. Such data may be fed to an expert system giving back advice to the player.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for capturing tennis play data is preferably in the form of an apparatus which can be worn on the body of the player, particularly with an armband (12) on an arm of the player. By way of example, it comprises a voice recognition device with a microphone and particularly also motion sensors or further sensors. The sensors can record and later evaluate data from the player which are relevant to tennis play.

Abstract: A tennis training aid can be used to teach proper wrist and racket position for swings such as a forehand ground stroke, two-handed backhand stroke, or volley. Such a tennis training aid is provided herein and includes a forearm attachment member operable to be releasably attached to a forearm of a player. In some implementations, the tennis training aid may also include a tether attachment having a first and second end, such that the first end is attached to the forearm attachment member and the second end is attached to a tennis racket throat in order to hold the wrist of the forearm holding that racket at a desired angle so as to allow the player to practice a plurality of different tennis strokes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and a device for practicing a tennis serve, learning how to perform a tennis serve, and for teaching a student how to perform a tennis serve. The method includes placing an indicator band on the server's thumb joint, placing a positioning indicator on the throat of the server's racquet, standing at the baseline in a serving position, bringing the racquet to the tossing hand and physically touching the positioning band on the thumb with the indicator band on the racquet, dropping both hands together, one hand holding the ball and one hand holding the racquet, then extending the throwing hand skyward and releasing the ball with the palm of the hand up, and bringing the racquet around and striking the ball at the apogee of its arc.

Abstract: A swing analyzing apparatus 2 includes: a three-axis acceleration sensor 28 attached to a tennis racket, for measuring accelerations in the directions of three axes when a swing for hitting a tennis ball is taken with the tennis racket; a three-axis gyro sensor 30 attached to the tennis racket, for measuring angular speeds about the three axes; and an analyzing device 8. The analyzing device 8 has a receiving function to receive data regarding the accelerations and the angular speeds from the three-axis acceleration sensor 28 and the three-axis gyro sensor 30; a coordinate axis conversion function to convert relative coordinate axes that are the three axes for the accelerations into absolute coordinate axes on the basis of the angular speeds; and a calculation function to calculate an index of the swing on the basis of accelerations resulting from the coordinate axis conversion.

Abstract: The present invention is a sport swinging, hitting and throwing assistance device that includes a cumber bun base belt that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's waist and chest area while the athlete is swinging, hitting or throwing a piece of sports equipment, an arm loop that is attached to the cumber bun base belt by an expandable guide arm and receives the athlete's middle arm area that is inserted through the arm loop and a buckle. The device can also be a vest style base device that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's torso or a panty style base device that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's torso while the athlete is swinging, hitting, or throwing a golf club or other piece of sports equipment.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present baseball training bat is comprised of a hollow tube with a handle portion and a knob attached at the proximal end. A hitting portion is attached at the distal end of the tube that provides two elongated, opposed striking surfaces that are narrower than the striking surface of a conventional baseball bat, and are offset from the axis for improving swing accuracy and wrist control. The relative weights of the components combine to produce a training bat that is substantially similar in overall weight and balance to a conventional baseball bat. The face of each narrow striking surface is substantially similar in convexity to the striking surface of a conventional baseball bat, thereby providing a familiar feel and sound to the hitter when used to hit a ball.

Abstract: A glove made from narrow strap material. Glove advantages when used with a striking tool: improved control, improved striking force, improved tool head acceleration, improved energy transfer, reduced hand fatigue, improved grip, and reduced vibration shock. It can be configured for 1, 2, 3 or 4 fingers plus the thumb. The glove forms a web between the thumb and fingers. The width of the web and the tightness of fit on the thumb and fingers is controlled by a single pull-tab type of adjustment. The adjustment is secured by a contact friction loop which increases in friction during impact force use. The glove can be worn on a bare hand or over the top of a more conventional type of glove while still providing the same advantages.

Abstract: A system and training method adapted to assist an individual in improving his or her basketball shooting skills and accuracy. The system includes an apparatus and glove that can be used independently or together. The apparatus is adapted for mounting to a basketball rim and includes flexible paddles for mounting to the rim so that the paddles project upwardly from the rim. The glove is adapted to be worn on the shooting hand and includes fingers, wrist and backhand portions. The fingers portion has three separate sleeves interconnected by elastic webs therebetween. The backhand portion interconnects the fingers portion to the wrist portion. The glove is configured so that the three middle fingers of the shooting hand are individually inserted into the sleeves and elastically held together by the webs, while allowing the thumb and outer finger of the shooting hand to spread outward and support the basketball during shooting.

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: An apparatus for teaching and practicing the proper positioning of the hands and/or wrists relative to the arms in the performance of an athletic maneuver is disclosed. The apparatus includes a brace to be positioned on the forearm and extend across the wrist and at least partially along the hand. A securing mechanism can be included for selectively attaching the brace to the forearm. A rod extends from the brace and is configured to be gripped by the user while wearing the device. The rod can also receive athletic related devices. The device can be adapted to teach a user the proper positioning of the hands and wrists relative to the arms throughout an athletic maneuver.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a volleyball instructional apparatus and methods of using such apparatus, more particularly to a volleyball instructional apparatus that provides assistance with training a user how to establish proper hand, forearm, and/or body positioning when bumping or striking a volleyball during different volleyball motions. The instructional apparatus comprises a first hand member, a second hand member and an element for maintaining said first and second hand members.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a volleyball instructional apparatus and methods of using such apparatus, more particularly to a volleyball instructional apparatus that provides assistance with training a user how to establish proper hand, forearm, and/or body positioning when bumping or striking a volleyball during different volleyball motions. The instructional apparatus comprises a first hand member, a second hand member and an element for maintaining said first and second hand members.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and a device for practicing a tennis serve, learning how to perform a tennis serve, and for teaching a student how to perform a tennis serve. The method includes placing an indicator band on the server's thumb joint, placing a positioning indicator on the throat of the server's racquet, standing at the baseline in a serving position, bringing the racquet to the tossing hand and physically touching the positioning band on the thumb with the indicator band on the racquet, dropping both hands together, one hand holding the ball and one hand holding the racquet, then extending the throwing hand skyward and releasing the ball with the palm of the hand up, and bringing the racquet around and striking the ball at the apogee of its arc.

Abstract: Training device to improve tennis skills. The training device includes an umbilical having a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to a wristband for encircling the wrist of a user and the second end is attached to a tennis racquet.

Abstract: Training device to improve tennis skills. The training device includes an umbilical having a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to a wristband for encircling the wrist of a user and the second end is attached to a tennis racquet. The umbilical is under constant tension during use to encourage the movement of a user's hands in unison in carrying out the tennis stroke.

Abstract: A training system used in sports or other training that where a participant wears a device with a visual indicator such as a device emitting colored light and an optional signaling device like a vibrator or beeper. The device can be worn on the head, elbow, wrist, waist, knee, ankle or foot or be part of an participant's attire. The device can optionally be embedded in or on a shoe. A motion or position sensor can cause the visual indicator to change color or indication when the wearer is not moving correctly. Also, in some embodiments, a vibration can signal can be commanded by a coach or instructor to show that the player is not properly moving. An embedded processor can optionally set up various rhythm patterns used in practice. The device, wherever it is worn or disposed, can optionally be controlled remotely by a coach or instructor using a wireless transmission such as digital or analog radio or light to establish certain rhythms or to signal certain participants.

Abstract: A training device properly develops a sports equipment swing, particularly for golf equipment, to counter an overpowered back-swing that results in an uncontrolled out-of-plane downswing. The device may comprise a strap having one end secured to a latch plate, and the other end securable to a latch that releasably receives a portion of the latch plate. At least one bungee cord may have one end attached to the strap at a position relative to the latch, being approximately 4-12 inches displaced therefrom. The other bungee cord end may have a cinching device located thereon to adjustably secure the bungee cord therein to engage a golf club shaft or shaft of a sports racquet, bat or stick. The bungee cord may comprise first and second cord portions being joined together, where the first cord portion has a low elastic modulus, and the second cord portion a high elastic modulus.

Abstract: A Laser Toss Assist is a wristband with a distinguish colored line on a back surface coming from one end to another and flexible plastic tube having a laser pointer device inside. A flexible plastic tube attached to an inner, upper side, straight under a colored line of a wristband. When Laser Toss Assist on a tossing hand can be seen a laser spot on a ball in time of a tossing action for control of direction, proper ball position, timing of a serve, palm and fingers position, body movements and successful serve. A wristband colored line makes visible and imaginable straight line going through a hand, wrist, laser beam and a ball in time of tossing action. When Laser Toss Assist on a hitting hand possible practice a hand and eyes control by quick point a laser spot on a target.

Abstract: A grip trainer for positioning a user's hand on a sports racquet includes a base configured to be removably attached to the sports racquet handle in a plurality of different positions that correspond to different grips related to the sport for which the racquet is designed for use, a finger positioning device that includes a generally cylindrical projection extending upwardly from the base and configured to position the user's hand on the racquet handle in one of the plurality of positions. A method of positioning a user's hand in any of the forehand, backhand, and service position on a tennis racquet also is disclosed.

Abstract: A training system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The training system includes a method of training an athlete to use an article of footwear with a traction system to help enhance speed and agility. The method can be implemented on a computer, mobile device or as an instruction booklet. The training system provides a total training solution for an athlete that is designed to enhance specific athletic skills.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tennis training systems. Methods of practicing and teaching tennis are also provided herein. In one aspect, the training system employs an elongated, elastic cord having a proximal end and a distal end, a vibration dampener configured to be received within a string bed of a racket and operatively connected to the proximal end of the cord, and a connection disc operatively connected to the distal end of the cord. The vibration dampener is connected to the proximal end of the cord by means of an integral loop. Optionally, the connection disc is releasably connected to the distal end of the cord by means of an integral loop.

Abstract: A tennis training aid can be used to teach proper wrist and racket position for swings such as a forehand ground stroke, two-handed backhand stroke, or volley. Such a tennis training aid is provided herein and includes a forearm attachment member operable to be releasably attached to a forearm of a player. In some implementations, the tennis training aid may also include a tether attachment having a first and second end, such that the first end is attached to the forearm attachment member and the second end is attached to a tennis racket throat in order to hold the wrist of the forearm holding that racket at a desired angle so as to allow the player to practice a plurality of different tennis strokes.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a volleyball instructional apparatus and methods of using such apparatus, more particularly to a volleyball instructional apparatus that provides assistance with training a user how to establish proper hand, forearm, and/or body positioning when bumping or striking a volleyball during different volleyball motions. The instructional apparatus comprises a first hand member, a second hand member and an element for maintaining said first and second hand members.

Abstract: A device and method of use in learning, practicing and perfecting softball pitching motions comprising, a practice glove worn on the pitching hand having multiple finger portions each with an extending indicator element removably positioned thereon. The indicator elements extending as independent elongated flexible bands removably secured and attached on the ends of index finger portion tabs of the adjacent finger portion. By practicing the pitching motion, the relative position of the indicator bands will confirm and teach proper pitching arm and hand position through the multiple underhand pitching sequence of softball pitching action.

Abstract: A muscle memory training glove for basketball having a palm portion for covering the palm of the wearer's hand formed with a first opening for receiving the fingers and hands. A plurality of finger coverings communicate with the palm portion at a first end of the palm portion opposite the first opening. Each finger covering has an opening at a distal end thereof allowing the fingers of a user to extend therebetween. A separating structure maintains a respective one of each finger covering a predetermined spaced distance from an adjacent finger covering.

Abstract: A device and method of use in learning, practicing and perfecting a baseball pitching motion comprising, a practice glove worn on the pitching hand having a pair of finger portions and a pair of extending directional indicator elements removably positioned thereon. The indicator elements extending as independent elongated flexible band ribbons attached on the ends of the index finger portion and adjacent finger portion. By practicing the pitching motion, the relative position of the indicator bands will confirm and teach proper pitching arm and hand position through the multiple pitching sequence of the pitching action.

Abstract: A tennis training aid can be used to teach proper wrist and racket position for swings such as a forehand ground stroke, two-handed backhand stroke, or volley. Such a tennis training aid is provided herein and includes a forearm attachment member operable to be releasably attached to a forearm of a player. The tennis training aid also includes a tether attachment having a first and second end, such that the first end is attached to the forearm attachment member and the second end is attached to a tennis racket throat in order to hold the wrist of the forearm holding that racket at a desired angle so as to allow the player to practice a plurality of different tennis strokes.

Abstract: An apparatus, that places an object ball in the palm of both hands of an athlete, for training the athlete to catch a thrown sports ball with fingertips and thumb tips rather than palms. The size of the object ball can be increased as the athlete's skill level improves. This apparatus teaches the athlete to control the sports ball with the fingertips and thumb tips. Because this apparatus is small and lightweight it can be used for training as well as performance enhancement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices more specifically for use in sports training in the fields of baseball, softball, golf, tennis, and other sports requiring control of, and the accuracy of a swing of the wrists, the positioning and follow through of the foots, and the positioning of the body when developing its precision and its reactions to moving objects. Important to the concept is the location of the pivot point or “center of action” associated with the muscular control developed when using this device. By attaching the resistance bands at the waist, proper control and muscle development relating to improved performance is accomplished.

Abstract: A tennis training aid can be used to teach proper wrist and racket position for swings such as a forehand ground stroke, two-handed backhand stroke, or volley. A training aid includes a forearm attachment member that can be quickly and easily attached to a player's forearm. A wrist positioning member can be attached between the forearm attachment member and the player's racket to maintain proper wrist angle and racket position. A first wrist positioning member can be used for a forehand ground stroke or two-handed backhand stroke, while a second wrist positioning member can be used for volleys. The forearm attachment member can include a rotatable member, and the wrist positioning member can be slightly elastic, in order to allow the racket to move slightly with respect to the wrist, and to allow for slight wrist movement, in order to provide a natural feel for the player.

Abstract: A tennis training apparatus, and method of use thereof, for improving a forehand and/or backhand of a tennis player. The apparatus includes a wristband, an “L”-shaped bracket attached to the racket, and an inflexible strap linking the L-shaped bracket to the wristband. When the strap is tightened, it causes the wrist to bend backwards in extension at an approximately ninety degree angle to the forearm. A second component of the training aid is a restraining plate in the form of a torso attachment worn by the player, wherein the torso attachment retains alignment of the player's hand, hips and shoulders; thereby, forcing the player to rotate his hips to perform a stroke. An alternate training apparatus comprises a plate affixed to the base of the handle of the tennis racket. The player's forearm rests against the plate and the plate restrains the player's wrist angle at approximately ninety degrees.

Abstract: A tennis training aid can be used to teach proper wrist and racket position for swings such as a forehand ground stroke, two-handed backhand stroke, or volley. A training aid includes a forearm attachment member that can be quickly and easily attached to a player's forearm. A wrist positioning member can be attached between the forearm attachment member and the player's racket to maintain proper wrist angle and racket position. A first wrist positioning member can be used for a forehand ground stroke or two-handed backhand stroke, while a second wrist positioning member can be used for volleys. The forearm attachment member can include a rotatable member, and the wrist positioning member can be slightly elastic, in order to allow the racket to move slightly with respect to the wrist, and to allow for slight wrist movement, in order to provide a natural feel for the player.

Abstract: A racket swing training apparatus providing a user-chosen static positioning of a tennis racket in the hand, at angles to the forearm, which are determinable and repeatable. The device further provides components to set the face angle of the racket engaged to the device and visual indica to allow for the same positioning in subsequent uses. A planar member is removably engageable in a translatable engagement with a cuff adapted for engagement to the user's forearm. The planar member has an aperture opposite the cuff which is adapted to encircle the grip of a racket and sized to prevent rotation of the racket axis past predetermined limits relative to the axis of the planar member.

Abstract: A tennis training aid can be used to teach proper wrist and racket position for swings such as a forehand ground stroke, two-handed backhand stroke, or volley. Such a tennis training aid is provided herein and includes a forearm attachment member operable to be releasably attached to a forearm of a player. The tennis training aid also includes a tether attachment having a first and second end, such that the first end is attached to the forearm attachment member and the second end is attached to a tennis racket throat in order to hold the wrist of the forearm holding that racket at a desired angle so as to allow the player to practice a plurality of different tennis strokes.

Abstract: A tennis training apparatus and method of use thereof, for improving a forehand and/or backhand of a tennis player. The apparatus includes a wristband, an “L”-shaped bracket attached to the racket, and an inflexible strap linking the L-shaped bracket to the wristband. When the strap is tightened, it causes the wrist to bend backwards in extension at an approximately ninety degree angle to the forearm. A second component of the training aid is a restraining plate in the form of a torso attachment worn by the player, wherein the torso attachment retains alignment of the player's hand, hips and shoulders; thereby, forcing the player to rotate his hips to perform a stroke. The torso attachment may be subsequently employed or removed during two-handed backhand strokes. The tennis training apparatus significantly improves the power and control of strokes, and also reduces and/or prevents the risk of developing tennis elbow.

Abstract: A training device to improve tennis skills. The device includes wristbands for encircling each wrist of a user and a tension device with an umbilical attached to it and to the wristbands. The umbilical is under constant tension during use of the training device to encourage the movement of a user's hands in unison in carrying out a tennis stroke.

Abstract: A device and method are provided for training a person to swing a bat or club while rotating the person's hips. The device includes a belt for attaching around a person's hips, a restraint device attached to the back side of the belt, and an anchor system slidably attached to the restraint device. The restraint device can be a nylon strap sewn to the back side of the belt. The anchor system comprises a flexible member, such as a rope, with a first ring attached at one end for slidable attachment to the restraint device. The other end of the anchor system can be tethered to a stationary object or held by a coach. A clip can be attached to the restraint device for limiting the extent of movement of the anchor system along the restraint device and for providing a reference point for swing training.

Abstract: A racquet stroke training device adapted to “fix” a user's forehand racquet stroke comprises, in one embodiment, a band adapted to be worn on a user's arm above the user's elbow, a glove adapted to be worn on a user's hand, and a tether having a first end attachable to the band and a second end attachable to the glove. The tether has (or is dimensioned to have) a given length such that, during a practice stroke, the user's elbow is bent at a substantially 90° angle and the user's wrist is fixed in an upwardly-extending, wrist-locked position.

Abstract: A racket grip training apparatus providing user chosen static positioning of a tennis racket in the hand at angles to the forearm that are determinable and repeatable. The device further provides components to set the face angle of the racket engaged to the device and visual indica to allow for the same positioning in subsequent uses. A planar member is removably engageable to the user's forearm at a first end and has an aperture at an opposite end adapted to encircle the grip of a racket and sized to prevent rotation of the racket axis past predetermined limits relative to the axis of the planar member.

Abstract: Finger sleeve grip pressure tennis training device. An improved swing for tennis through the GRIP LOOSE finger sleeve-training device is provided through less grip pressure. When wearing the finger sleeve there is a sound when the tennis player grips the tennis racquet too tight. There is a battery, sound module, wire, and a snap disc sensor on the inside of the said finger sleeve.

Abstract: A firearm safety retaining glove or wristband includes an adjustable wristband or wristband portion releasably securable about a users wrist, a safety retaining strap attached at one end to the wristband or wristband portion, and extendable forwardly to and between a user's fingers and the trigger guard of a firearm held by the user, thence to the opposite side of the wristband or wristband portion, where it is releasably securable to the wristband, preferably by passing through a D-ring attached to the wristband, folded back on itself, and releasably secured to itself with a hook-and-loop closure.

Abstract: A tennis training device for training a user proper tennis strokes with a means for attaching the tennis training device to an upper arm of a tennis player, a means for connecting the means for attaching to a tennis racquet, and a means for restricting the position of the tennis racquet in relation to the tennis player.

Abstract: A ball game device comprising a body 10 adapted to receive a hand 24 and a wrist 25 of a user 26, the body 10 presenting two hitting surfaces 14 for hitting a ball 20. The body 10 comprises two panels 12 with a cavity 22 therebetween for receiving the hand 24 and wrist 25 through an opening 23. The device may also be supplied in kit form.

Abstract: A device and method of use in learning, practicing and perfecting a baseball pitching motion comprising, a practice glove worn on the pitching hand having a pair of directional indicator elements extending therefrom. The indicator elements extending as independent elongated flexible band ribbons attached to the end of the index finger portion and adjacent finger portion. By practicing the pitching motion, the relative position of the indicator strap ribbons will confirm and teach proper pitching arm and hand position through the multiple pitching sequence of the pitching action.