Striking Patents (Class 482/83)
  • Patent number: 6152865
    Abstract: A working element, such as a ball (4) is held at a preselected position in front of a user exercising abdominal muscles. The ball is supported (9, 31a, 31b, 44) by a positioning device (6) for positioning lower members of the user. The lower member positioning device includes at least one of a user knee positioning member (11, 15, 74) and a foot or ankle positioning member (10). A frame or other connecting element (21, 22, 40, 42, 61, 71) interconnects the foot and knee positioning elements in a preselected relationship. A flexible or spring mounting (14) or flexible straps (31a, 31b, 44) permit the ball (4) to be resiliently displaced during exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Bruno Beauvoir
  • Patent number: 6149554
    Abstract: An exercise machine (1) having a cable (16) connected at a first end to a longitudinally reciprocable target pad (13) and sequentially extending around a first pulley (57) located on a lower crossbar (56) of the machine (1), underneath the target pad (13), and then connected to a spring (17) anchored to a support (18). A pair of handles (14, 15) is attached to legs (4, 5) which support the frame (3) of the machine (1). A user (2) is able to kick the target pad (13) and thereby strengthen muscles and develop coordination needed in the martial arts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Jack Ferguson
  • Patent number: 6149553
    Abstract: A portable, free-standing martial arts board holding device. The device includes a backboard and a pair of elongate members on which boards to be struck and broken by a practitioner are supported against spaced from the backboard. An extension member permits additional boards to be held on the device. The elongate members includes holes to allow tubular members to pass therethrough. A wide range of desired heights of the backboard can be selected by the practitioner by passing the backboard through the holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Nicholas Antoszewski
  • Patent number: 6139328
    Abstract: Disclosed is a grappling dummy is useful as a mock opponent for exercise or practice for athletes training for competitive martial art or wrestling purposes, as well as for practicing self-defense moves. The dummy is given a life size stature (for example, five foot ten inches or 178 cm), but a relatively diminutive weight:--e.g., about forty pounds or 18 kg for the given example. By giving the grappling dummy such a relatively diminutive weight, it happens to just "feel" right to the user who is practicing or exercising with the dummy. To preserve strength and toughness but conserve on weight, the dummy is produced substantially from soft materials including paper (as newspaper and computer paper, in some uses it is shredded, in others not), the plastic film of waste grocery sacks, burlap (in some uses in sack format, in others plain cloth), garden hose, braided nylon rope, poly strapping, cellophane tape, and duct tape. The sum total of hard elements can be limited to just eight pieces of pine 2.times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Brettco, Inc.
    Inventor: Brett H. Picotte
  • Patent number: 6117054
    Abstract: A ball therapy device for providing a means of exercise for improving strength, range of motion, and coordination. The ball therapy device includes a generally U-shaped frame with a first and a second leg and a cross member extending between upper ends of the legs. Third and fourth legs are pivotally coupled to the upper ends of the first and second legs. A pair of spacing arms are provided. One of the spacing arms is selectively slidably positionable along the first leg and the associated third leg. The other of the spacing arms is selectively slidably positionable along the second leg and the associated fourth leg. A support arm extends between the spacing arms. A ball sleeve rotatably extends around the support arm. The ball sleeve has a cord extending therefrom. A tether ball is coupled to the cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Nahid Soltanpour
  • Patent number: 6110079
    Abstract: A kick-boxing exercise device includes a weighted base unit which supports a target section. The target section having an appearance of a head, neck and torso of a human. The target section is vertically adjustable on the base unit and includes a plurality of target areas. A plurality of LEDs are mounted within the target areas which illuminate as the specific target areas are to be punched or kicked by a user. A foam pad is attached to the target section for cushioning the punch or kick of the user. An electronic control unit illuminates the LEDs in a preprogrammed punch or kick sequence. Various skill levels are provided to sequentially illuminate the LEDs at various speeds. The electronic control unit includes a scoring system which allows the user to evaluate his or her performance. A sensor detects contact with the target section and triggers illumination of the next LED in the sequence. A sensor adjustment dial allows the sensitivity of the sensor to be adjusted by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Fitness Quest, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam A. Luedke, Louis F. Polk, III, Kim M. Parmater
  • Patent number: 6106443
    Abstract: A punching bag includes a base, a punch body and an outside bag. The base includes a base envelope and a weighing member filled in the base envelope. The punch body is disposed above the base, and includes a punch envelope and a fluid filled in the punch envelope. The punch body is lighter than the base. The bag includes a lower enclosing portion filled by the base and having a first joint end with stitching holes, an upper enclosing portion filled by the punch body and having a second joint end with stitching holes, and a cord threading through the stitching holes and fastening together the first and second joint ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: James Y. C. Kuo
  • Patent number: 6090018
    Abstract: A mount for securing a punching bag or other exercise equipment to a support structure has a helical spring nested around a rotatable, slidable rod. The resulting structure relieves torsional stresses and absorbs longitudinal forces experienced by the punching bag or other exercise equipment during its use, thus prolonging the life of such bag or equipment. The nested or non-serial connection of elements in the mount shortens the operative length of the mount, which is advantageous when the vertical mounting location for the bag or equipment is limited, such as by the presence of a standard ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Balazs Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew R. Laudenslager, Peter B. Pecsvaradi
  • Patent number: 6080089
    Abstract: The invention described in the specification relates to the art of fitness training and in particular to a training bag apparatus which comprises a training bag support base having a planar, substantially circular bottom portion, a dome-shaped upper portion attached to the bottom portion defining a substantially closed cavity therebetween. The upper portion having a dome-shaped outer surface contains a centrally positioned support collar attached thereto and at least two support ribs radiating from the support collar along at least a portion of the outer surface of the upper portion. The support collar and ribs are integrally molded with the upper portion. The base further includes a centrally positioned upstanding projection attached to the bottom portion and a substantially rigid elongate tube removably fitted over the upstanding projection and extending at least from the bottom projection to the support collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Bollinger Industries
    Inventor: Robert Steven Nicholson
  • Patent number: 6077204
    Abstract: A martial arts practice apparatus which supports a hand-held striking target, called a focus pad, in a variety of positions corresponding to parts of a person's body. The apparatus generally comprises an arm adapted to hold a focus pad at its distal end and a base which pivotally supports the arm and absorbs the force of the blows delivered to the focus pad. An axle disposed through the middle of the base and the bottom end of the arm allows the arm to be pivoted over the base, and a removable pin may be inserted through the arm and one of the holes formed at regular intervals through the top edge of the base at a uniform radial distance from the axle to secure the arm in a fixed position. A spring loaded resistance system or a resilient top portion of the base allows the base to absorb the force of the blows delivered to the focus pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: George S. Dickinson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6063011
    Abstract: A portable martial arts training device having the ability to be removably attached to a support structure such as a heavy punching bag or another verticle support structure like a tree. The device has a main body, which after being strapped to a vertical support such as a heavy punching bag, can be used to absorb kicks and punches. A plurality of cylindrical targets, extend from and are horizontally supported by the main body, and simulate human arms and legs. These targets are removably and multipositionally connected to the main base. The targets can be unmounted, then wrapped within the base, and the entire device fastened by straps thus allowing the device to be transported by the practitioner as would a duffle bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: William S. Pelchat
  • Patent number: 6056674
    Abstract: An apparatus for boxing. The apparatus includes clothing adapted to be worn by a boxer which protects the boxer from punches of another boxer. The apparatus includes a sensor mechanism which senses when a punch contacts the clothing. The sensor mechanism is in contact with the clothing. The apparatus includes a display mechanism which identifies when a punch contacts the clothing. The display mechanism is in communication with the sensor mechanism. A method for boxing. The method comprises the steps of punching clothing on a boxer which protects the boxer from punches. Then there is the step of sensing with a sensor mechanism in the clothing when a punch having at least the predetermined level of force contacts the clothing. Next there is the step of displaying with a displaying mechanism when a punch having at least the predetermined level of force contacts the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Arnold J. Cook
  • Patent number: 6042522
    Abstract: A releasable connecting member for a mannequin having a resiliently deformable first contact member with a contact area, connected to one of a support end and object attachment end, and a second contact member, connected to the other of the support end and object attachment end, contacting the contact area. The first contact member includes an adjuster for adjusting the mass of the first contact member in the contact area. The force required to overcome the contact force between the contact area and the second contact member is increased or decreased with a corresponding increase or decrease of mass of the first contact member at the contact area by the adjuster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Medical Plastics Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas William Farenholtz
  • Patent number: 6033349
    Abstract: A joint for releasably and pivotally connecting a mannequin to a support structure as might be used, for example in simulating martial arts skills such as those associated with judo, wrestling, jujitsu, akido, karate, taekwon do, etc. and other body contact sports including football, rugby and the like and in related testing, training and rehabilitative programs. The support structure includes a pivot member connected to the mannequin having a semispherical shaped pivot contact surface and an annular ring connected to the support having an annular ring contact surface for receiving the pivot member which permits circumductal rotation of the pivot member in the ring. A connector connects the pivot member to a resisting force which acts to constrain the pivot member within the ring against the ring contact surface and to permit pivotal movement of the pivot member within the ring against the force of the resisting force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignees: PTM Equipment Inc.,, Medical Plastics Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas William Farenholtz
  • Patent number: 6033348
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a martial arts practice device which includes a housing member adapted to be mounted onto a support and having at least one receiving portion, a striking member adapted to be mounted onto the housing member and a joint member positioned between the housing member and the striking member and having a first joining member captured in the receiving portion on the housing member and a second joining member mounted to the striking member. The second joining member of the joint member is deflectable relative to the first joining member of the joint member in all directions to provide the necessary tension both as for resistance of striking forces as well as for the return of the striking member to its original position after it is struck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Matthew S. Warshauer
  • Patent number: 6030321
    Abstract: The invention is an exercise apparatus for athletes who engage is sports that require a strong, quick kick. A pair of cables extend from a platform and contain cuffs for strapping to the athletes ankle. Below the platform is a mechanism, including a reel for storing each cable, mounted on a common shaft, through a one way clutch. Each reel is connected to a recoil spring which retracts the cable when any force withdrawing the cable is relaxed. An adjustable friction brake is attached to the common shaft for controlling the force required to withdraw the cable from the stored condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Joe A. Fuentes
  • Patent number: 6010435
    Abstract: A bag-shaped sword blade section having a throttled opening formed of a sealing and elastic material such as rubber is fitted onto and closely attached to a tip end of a cylindrical-shaped grip formed of a hard material such as wood, a hard rubber, plastics and metals. A gas such as air is filled in the sword blade section to define a cavity. Accordingly, a soft sword is made uniform in quality, and undergoes less degradation in quality even after an extended use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Tetsundo Tanabe
  • Patent number: 5984842
    Abstract: A boxing exercise apparatus is mounted on a stand. A pivoted support arm provides a strike absorbing means. In a first embodiment, the support arm is connected to the stand with a spring joined to a rigid rod. The rigid rod is preferably positioned in a neutral position with an integral positioning means. Displacement of the support arm away from the neutral position toward a rocked-back position is counteracted by the spring. In a second embodiment, the apparatus further includes a second spring joining segments of the stand so as to bias lateral movement of the support arm. When the support arm is deflected, the first spring and the second spring retards the motion of the support arm within two degrees of freedom. A friction adjustment is provided so as to adjust motion stiffness. This adjustment provides a novel approach using a friction washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Fitness Botics, Inc.
    Inventor: Yong S. Chu
  • Patent number: 5971398
    Abstract: A training mannequin for sparring and self-defense training is disclosed which employs a life-size mannequin torso in place of the traditional punching bags. The mannequin torso provides more realistic training and provides anatomically correct references as well as lifelike reaction and feel when struck. The mannequin is made from an outer skin filled with a flexible interior foam. The outer skin is formed from a flexible material which returns to its original shape even after it is deformed by a strong blow. This resilience allows the mannequin to absorb virtually unlimited blows without losing its shape, structure or feel. Further, the three dimensional nature of the mannequin allows training in realistic circumstances and from angles not possible with traditional punching bags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Medical Plastics Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: David N. Broussard, Danny Ray Smith, Clinton H. Evans
  • Patent number: 5964683
    Abstract: A martial arts training device is provided by the present invention. The martial arts training device includes an integrally constructed target pad and striking glove. The target pad is provided for protecting a wearer's forearm when an opponent strikes the pad. The striking glove is provided for protecting the wearer's hand when the wearer strikes another combatant or another target pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Round One, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry Lee Norblom
  • Patent number: 5961426
    Abstract: A pneumatic bop bag which rests on the ground and simulates a humanoid figure having a head, the bag being normally erect. When a player punches the head, the bag is caused to swing to a degree that depend on the force of the punch, the bag then swinging back to resume its erect position. The bag is formed by a collapsible fabric casing having an upper head zone, an intermediate torso zone and a base zone that rests on the ground. The head and torso zones are occupied by an inflated balloon which conforms to the contours of these zones to cause the bag to assume a three-dimensional shape. Confined within the base zone is a weighted convex dish whose center pole which engages the ground is normally aligned with a vertical axis. When the bag is punched and swings away from this vertical axis, the gravitational force imposed on the dish causes the bag to return to its normal position whereby it is again erect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Donald Spector
  • Patent number: 5944639
    Abstract: An apparatus for practice and demonstrating defense arts, such as karate, includes a vertical wall-mounted main frame unit assembled of a pair of vertical, symmetrical, cylinder shaped tubes secured to three horizontally extending wall mounting brackets or to a free standing frame unit. The purpose of the invention is to support a height adjustable hanging target, such as a speed bag or heavy bag, which the artisan strikes with various human appendages, such as the hand or foot and other certain appropriate weapons. The hanging target is supported by a striking bag carriage assembly and a striking bag platform as it rides along the vertical tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Randy Ray
  • Patent number: 5941801
    Abstract: An improved exercise bag that freely allows a person to throw all variations of punches and kicks in combination. The flexibility is made possible by the internal structure of the bag and allows for a reaction of the directed punch or kick. Therefore, the bag has the ability to provide a person with a follow through, if so desired. Furthermore, the bags design allows for the placement of a variation of punches and kicks. Unique to this bag, it incorporates multiple uses of equipment into one bag. The bag is free standing enabling a person to exercise 360 degrees around the bag. Furthermore, the bag may also be made adjustable in height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Louis D'Alto
  • Patent number: 5921895
    Abstract: A martial arts striking device using a pair of spaced and heavy duty spring assemblies with a top bracket having a centered opening for receiving an upright post supporting a resilient striking bag. The lower ends of the spring assemblies are secured to a bottom bracket, which is fastened to a firm footing such as a floor. The wire making up the springs are of such a diameter that the springs have a low spring constant, meaning the springs are highly resistive to impacts against the bag and will return to an upright position without undue oscillation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventors: John R. Lynch, Thomas G. Coleman
  • Patent number: 5921896
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided having a resilient or flexible front impact surface and a plurality of identification indicia for identifying target areas on the flexible impact surface. The exercise device preferably utilizes lights as the identification indicia that are resiliently mounted to the exercise device which are sequentially operated by a microprocessor to force an athlete to contact the identified area on the impact surface while speed, strength and agility may be measured and analyzed by the microprocessor. The software for operating the microprocessor provides a wide range of workout levels and routines and imparts the ability to identify weak areas in the performance of the athlete and provide specific future training routines to improve overall performance in speed, agility and power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: Kevin O. Boland
  • Patent number: 5902217
    Abstract: A device for physical training, such as in martial arts, boxing and similar disciplines that involve punching, kicking, wing chun kung fu drills, etc. These training and drills are performed without the need for a partner by the use of a training accessory that mounts to a heavy training bag and which provides targets or wing chun type blocking arms which the trainee can punch, kick, or block, for example. The training accessory has a frame that mounts to the heavy bag by use of cinch straps, and includes a pair of depending bars positioned one on each side of the bag. Accessory arms selectively mount to the depending bars and carry or define punching, kicking, or striking targets or wing chun blocking arms. Straps are secured to the heavy bag to prevent its twisting undesirably in response to torque generated by impacts and blocking movements of the trainee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventors: Matthew S Schechner, Allen T Adams
  • Patent number: 5899835
    Abstract: A multifunctional training device (10) comprising a base (12) adapted to be placed upon a horizontal support surface (14). A stanchion (16) is also provided. A main coil spring (18) has two ends (20) and (22). The first end (20) is fixedly attached to the base (12), while the second end (22) is fixedly attached to the stanchion (16). A body bag unit (24) is removably attachable onto the stanchion (16) to receive strikes from a trainee. A punching bag striking unit (26) is removably attachable onto a top end (28) of the stanchion (16) to receive strikes from the trainee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Dennis C. Puranda
  • Patent number: 5897466
    Abstract: A new heavy bag and support mechanism for allowing a bag to move in a variety of ways after being struck. The inventive device includes a support beam having an I-shaped cross-section. A swiveling rail support is coupled to the support beam. A rolling assembly is slidably coupled with the support beam. A height adjustment tube is swively secured to the rolling assembly. A heavy bag is provided having a wide upper portion and a narrow lower portion. An upper surface of the wide upper portion is swively coupled with a free end of the height adjustment tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: James F. Capach
  • Patent number: 5897465
    Abstract: A martial arts practice device that includes a standard and a means for supporting the standard in a substantially vertical position. The invention provides a system of inter-fastened pads to mount a striking pad to the standard. The standard has a front side and two lateral sides. An elongated pad is positioned on the standard so that its two longitudinally oriented cushions cover the two lateral sides of the standard. The two longitudinally oriented cushions define an opening through which the front side of the standard is accessible. Several protective pads are mounted to the longitudinally oriented cushions to cover the opening and fix the elongated pad to the standard. At least one striking-pad plate is mounted on the standard and each such plate is used to mount a striking pad to the standard. The striking-pad plate has a fitting for receiving a flexible member. Each striking pad has a central bore with a fabric collar around the top of the central bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Hautamaki
  • Patent number: 5863279
    Abstract: A martial arts apparatus for mounting a breaking board with respect to a ground surface or another suitable structural member. A backing frame is adjustably mounted with respect to the structural support member. A back plate is adjustably mounted with respect to the backing frame. A front plate is adjustably mounted to rotate with respect to the back plate. A pair of arms are each pivotally attached with respect to the front plate. Each arm preferably has a front portion pivotally attached with respect to a rear portion. A plurality of clamping members mechanically cooperate with the front portions of the arms to clamp the breaking board between the clamping members and the front portions of the arms. The martial arts apparatus according to this invention is capable of rotating a breaking board within a plane, and rotating the breaking board into and out of a plane established by the breaking board which can be generally vertical with respect to a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Ronald Stephen Pouliot
  • Patent number: 5863278
    Abstract: A boxing drill device comprises a base having two support rods which are braced by a connection rod and are provided respectively with long segment and a short segment. A support frame is mounted uprightly on the base such that the bottom end of an upright rod of the support frame is fastened between two short segments of the support rods. The upright rod of the support frame is provided at the top thereof with a first suspension rod fastened therewith and a second suspension rod fastened therewith. The first suspension rod is provided with a sand bag fastened thereto while the second suspension rod is provided with a hammer ball fastened thereto. The upright rod of the support frame is braced by two reinforcing rods so as to give the upright rod an added support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: James Chen
  • Patent number: 5836853
    Abstract: A system for the detection and signalling of his in fencing is characterized in that its main components are portable hit detection units (1) each carried by a fencer and electrically connected to the corresponding weapon (2), at least one central (3) hit discrimination and signalling unit electrically connected to the conductive strip (4) and shoes with conductive soles (5) carried by each fencer and allowing an electrical connection between the conductive strip (4) and the hit detection units (1) and eventually the conductive valid hit surfaces worn by each fencer (6) (foil and saber).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Computer Masters International
    Inventor: Frederic Marciano
  • Patent number: 5803875
    Abstract: An apparatus for wrestling training includes a first elongated member having a first end and a second end. The first elongated member is generally L-shaped and is sized and shaped so as to simulate the lower portion of a human leg. The apparatus also includes a second elongated member having a first end and a second end. The first end of the first elongated member is pivotally connected to the first end of the second elongated member by a central linking member. The central linking member is flexible to enable the first elongated member to pivot in both anterior-posterior and rotational relation relative to the second elongated member to closely simulate the range of motion of a human leg. The second end of the second elongated member is shaped to form a handle which enables said apparatus to be hand held during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Carmine Colace
  • Patent number: 5803877
    Abstract: A punching bag is suspended from a from a motion device that moves the punching bag vertically and horizontally simulating the motions of an opponent boxer. The programmable sparing partner is operated from a control panel from which difficulty levels are selectable and feed back such as force of punch, number of punches, over all score are provided. The panel also has speed and motion controls. A free standing housing is described which is designed to be installed with modification to the building structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas Franey
  • Patent number: 5800319
    Abstract: A sparring device comprising a columnar member and a sparring member is disclosed. The sparring member includes a belt portion which is fastened upon the columnar member. The sparing member also includes at least one arm portion which is normally disposed in a horizontal direction with its inner end joined to the belt portion and its outer end in at least one arcuate path the radius of which extends from the inner end of the arm portion. The sparring member may also be separable from the columnar member by unfastening the belt portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: Brian W. Choate
  • Patent number: 5800320
    Abstract: An apparatus for practice and demonstrating defense arts, such as karate, includes a vertical wall-mounted main frame unit assembled of a pair of vertical, symmetrical, cylinder shaped tubes secured to three horizontally extending wall mounting brackets. The purpose of the invention is to support a height adjustable hanging target, such as a speed bag, which the artisan strikes with various human appendages, such as the hand or foot and other certain appropriate weapons. The hanging target is supported by a striking bag carriage assembly and a striking bag platform as it rides along the vertical tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: Randy Ray
  • Patent number: 5792032
    Abstract: A training system is formed by supporting a mannikin torso on a rigidly fixed base. The mannikin torso provides anatomically defined aiming references and may be attached to a frame which is supported by the base. The base allows the frame to be positioned either in a vertical or angled forward position to provide differing types of training. A harness is provided which is adapted to support the mannikin torso when it is detached from the frame and base. The harness has arm straps to allow a coach or trainer to move the mannikin torso to simulate more realistic sparring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Medical Plastics Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon A. Williams, Cassie M. Evans
  • Patent number: 5788612
    Abstract: A reactive means for a punching bag comprising a shaft for mounting the bag, a resinous resilient bearing and housing through which the shaft passes and in which the shaft pivots, an adjustable pressure plate for imparting a damping effect upon the motion of the bag by compressing the resinous bearing, and a supporting structure. Also disclosed are optional attachments of reactive and motivative devices to the shaft such as springs, weights, and fluid activated cylinders. The effect of the resinous bearing, and the reactive and motivative means attached to the shaft, is to cause the movement of the bag to mimic that of a human opponent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: A Leap Ahead, Incorporated
    Inventor: Mark Rennick
  • Patent number: 5788613
    Abstract: A portable and adjustable boxing speed bag apparatus comprising a hollow base having a chamber defined by a top wall and surrounding side walls and sized to fit over and accept a structure therein, first and second generally U-shaped support brackets mounted to the side walls of the base so that the first and second ends of the first bracket are aligned in vertical relation with each other and the first and second ends of the second bracket are aligned in vertical relation with each other, a punching bag, a generally flat mounting surface secured to the first and second brackets so that the mounting surface lies in a generally horizontal orientation when the structure is seated within the chamber, a generally S-shaped hook having an upper end zone attached to the mounting surface and an opposite lower end zone attached to the punching bag, and at least one strap for securing the base to a structure, such as a boxing heavy bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: John Grimaldi
  • Patent number: 5769761
    Abstract: An appendage for striking bags used in the training of the martial arts and boxing. A head-sized striking bag intended to be used in conjunction with a conventional, freely hanging training bag, thereby forming a simulated head on the training bag. The head-sized striking bag includes an axial tube, a foam head torus having a hole therethrough mounted on the axial tube, and an outer wrap of study fabric encapsulating the head torus. A suspension apparatus is threaded through the axial tube and provides the linkage from an overhead suspension to the training bag. To assure safety and accurate simulation, a neck torus is added to the lower section of the head torus and a skirt is added which extends from the neck torus to the training bag to assure the boxer does not entangle his glove into the suspension chains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Ronald Zagata, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5735775
    Abstract: A punching device comprised of a first component device and a second component device that closely simulates actual boxing by challenging a user with the combined tasks of striking at least one pad device while avoiding or preventing being struck by a rotating striking device. The first component device has an upstanding support that is mountable on a floor or to a wall with at least one pad device attached to the upstanding support. There may be six pad devices with three pad devices attached to the upstanding support in a generally horizontal row to form a top group and three pad devices attached in a generally horizontal row at a distance below the top group to form a bottom group. Each pad device has a spring extending from a back of a pad portion to the upstanding support. When struck by a punch, the pad devices compress and then spring back. The second component device is comprised of a motorized arm with a striking device such as a boxing glove attached to an end of the motorized arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventor: Gregory G. Miasserian
  • Patent number: 5728031
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for use in developing abdominal muscle. The exercise apparatus includes a supporting structure adjustably mounted on a platform and a lever structure mounted on the upper end of the supporting structure for pivoting about a horizontal axis. The lever structure has a first arm which is connected to a handle and a second arm which supports an impact member such as a medicine ball. The exercise apparatus is used by an individual by standing on the platform and pulling the handle toward his or her chest. The individual then pushes the handle away from his or her chest which causes the impact member to swing toward the individual's abdomen. The supporting structure is adjustable so that the impact member can be positioned to strike the abdomen of individuals of different height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: W. C. Honeycutt, Inc.
    Inventor: W. C. Honeycutt
  • Patent number: 5725458
    Abstract: A stand base is bolted to a concrete floor. A center pole extends upward from the center of stand base. Four support struts are attached to the stand base and to center pole. At the upper portion of the center pole are several different types of exercising equipment. On side A, near the upper part of center pole, is an extension pole extending outward and supporting a heavy bag. On side B, is an adjustable crank, a back board and a speed bag attached to the back board. On side C of the center pole is a chin up bar. On one end of the chin up bar is a hand grip bar, and threaded into one end of the hand grip bar is an I-bolt. Directly below the I-bolt and located at the base of the stand is another I-bolt. The purpose of the two I-bolts is to attach flexible lines to the upper and lower I-bolts and a punching bag in the center of the two flexible lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventors: Jerry Newman, John N. Newman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5722920
    Abstract: A martial arts practice apparatus (12) comprising a support member (14). A facility (16) is for positioning the support member (14) vertically in a stationary manner. At least one target member (18) is provided. A structure (20) is for suspending the at least one target member (18) outwardly from the support member (14) in a height adjustable manner. An assemblage (22) between the suspending structure (20) and the at least one target member (18) is for returning the at least one target member (18) back to its original position after being struck and kicked by a martial artist (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: Vernon E. Bauer
  • Patent number: 5716302
    Abstract: A dummy which is constructed to register blows inflicted thereon, wherein the dummy includes one or more sensors at the location or those locations on the dummy where a blow or blows delivered thereto shall be registered, and wherein the sensor or sensors is/are adapted to deliver an electric signal to a computer. The sensor (3, 13, 14) includes a pressure sensor (5) which is adapted to deliver an electric signal which corresponds to the pressure generated in the pressure sensor in response to a blow landing on said sensor; and in that the surface of the sensor (3, 13, 14) parallel with the dummy surface on which the sensor is attached is divided into two or more sections (4), where each section (4) is adapted to deliver an electric signal when the blow lands on the section concerned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Lars Andersson
    Inventor: Stefan Andersson
  • Patent number: 5702327
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for martial arts training is disclosed which includes a pair of vertically aligned dummies having free ends which are spaced apart and detached. The opposing ends of the dummies are attached through pivot assemblies to a rigid frame so that the dummies may be struck by kicking without one dummy responding to the other. In this manner, the dummies may be kicked at high speeds to develop speed and control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventor: Marshall Fullbright
  • Patent number: 5700230
    Abstract: A martial arts training device (14) which comprises a movable mannequin (16) having a human appearance. A structure (18) is for supporting the mannequin (16) in a generally upright position from a floor (20). A facility (22) within the mannequin (16), is for showing a reaction movement of a portion of the mannequin (16), when another portion of the mannequin receives a blow thereto from a martial artist (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventor: Alfred M. Cardona
  • Patent number: 5700229
    Abstract: A martial arts target made of nested tubes filled with sand is disclosed. The target has loops of steel cable which allow the target to be attached to various stationary objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventor: Glenn Karnofsky
  • Patent number: 5697872
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a martial arts training device useful for developing skill in the martial arts by providing simulated arms and legs for practicing various martial arts techniques. The training device comprises an elongated tubular member having a first and second distal portions, wherein the tubular member has a first arcuate bend adapted to matingly engage an exterior of an associated, generally cylindrical heavy bag so as to engage at least a portion of the bag along a circumference thereof; an elongated elastomeric member having opposed ends fixed to the tubular member on opposite sides of the first arcuate bend so as to define an aperture therewith, whereby the elastomeric member is adapted to secure the tubular member about the bag by securing the bag via friction to the first arcuate bend; and a resilient cover disposed about at least a portion of the elongated tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventors: Joseph Stronsick, Jr., Edward A. Stronsick
  • Patent number: 5690597
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame which includes a first pair of tracks and a second pair of tracks. A first handle is received in the first pair of tracks, and a second handle is received in the second pair of tracks. A motion-resistant assembly is connected between the first handle and the second handle. A base member is provided, and a frame-to-base pivot assembly, which lies in a vertical plane, is connected between the frame and the base member. When the frame and the base member move relative to each other around the pivot assembly, they move in a horizontal plane. The frame-connected bracket assembly can include a first bracket member connected to the frame, a second bracket member received by the first bracket member and adjustable longitudinally therewith, and a bracket lock connected between the first bracket member and the second bracket member. A kick target assembly can be connected to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Inventor: Abbas Enfaradi