SWING TRAINING DEVICE FOR A SPORTS IMPLEMENT

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application makes a claim of domestic priority under 35 U.S. C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 63/706,230 filed Oct. 11, 2024 and to U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 63/722,955 filed Nov. 20, 2024. The contents of both of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Sports implements, such as but not limited to baseball and softball bats, tennis and pickleball racquets, cricket bats, golf clubs, polo mallets, etc., are often provided with a handle and a striking surface to enable a user (player) to strike a ball or other game object in play.

An ideal swinging form is often defined that enables the user to articulate the implement to strike, launch and/or otherwise manipulate the game object with optimum force and trajectory. Swing training is a process whereby a player repetitively performs the swinging form associated with a particular type of implement in order to refine the swing and achieve increased consistency through muscle memory and feedback techniques.

A number of swing training mechanisms have been proposed in the art. While operable, such training mechanisms are often cumbersome, mechanically or electrically complex, and expensive. Moreover, many existing training mechanisms have only limited effectiveness since the player cannot use the actual sports implement the player is accustomed to using in actual game play.

As such, there remains a continued need for improvements in the manner in which swing training is provided to a player, and it is to such improvements that various embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directed.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directed to an apparatus and method for enabling a player to engage in swing training with a sports implement.

Without limitation, some embodiments provide a swing training device with a cup recess portion secured to a proximal end of a sports implement adjacent a handle thereof. A barrel portion has a proximal end connected to the cup recess portion and an opposing distal end. An effective length of the barrel portion is selected to be of sufficient length to provide sensory feedback to the player with regard to the position and orientation of the implement during the swing. The sports implement can be a baseball, softball or cricket bat, pickleball or tennis racket, lacrosse or hockey stick, etc. In some embodiments, the sports implement is a baseball bat and the effective length is in the range of about 10-15 inches.

These and various other features and advantages can be understood with a review of the following detailed description in conjunction with a review of the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic representations of a player engaged in swing training using a swing training device constructed and operated in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a schematic depiction of a swing training device generally corresponding to the device in FIGS. 1A-1B in some embodiments.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate aspects of the swing training device of FIG. 2 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D illustrate aspects of another swing training device in accordance with further embodiments.

FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C illustrate aspects of yet another swing training device in accordance with further embodiments.

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict additional swing training devices in accordance with further embodiments.

FIG. 7 shows aspects of a telescopic swing training device in accordance with further embodiments.

FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C show another swing training device in accordance with further embodiments.

FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C show another swing training device in accordance with further embodiments.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E and 10F show additional sports implements with which various swing training devices can be used in accordance with further embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating steps that may be carried to perform swing training in accordance with various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directed to a swing training device and associated method of use.

As explained below, the swing training device as variously embodied herein can be attached to a proximal end of a sports implement, such as a knob of a baseball bat, to provide immediate tactile feedback to the player during a swing with regard to the employed technique. The sports implement has a proximal end and a distal end, with a user grip or handle adjacent the proximal end and a striking surface adjacent the distal end.

The swing training device is affixed to the proximal end of the sports implement and operates as an extension member that lengthens the overall sports implement, but otherwise enables the player to grasp and swing the implement in a normal fashion. The length of the swing training device is selected such that, when swung properly, the implement passes along a desired arcuate path and the device passes in clearing relation to a torso (body portion) of the player.

The swing training device can take any number of shapes and sizes based on the type of implement, the age, size or skill level of the player, the type of swing employed, and so on. Regardless, in at least some cases the swing training device has two main elements: an attachment assembly (clamp portion) and a barrel assembly (extension portion). The clamp portion is configured to fixedly attach to the proximal end of the implement, such as the knob of a baseball bat, and the barrel portion extends axially away from the clamp portion in a direction generally toward the player.

The barrel portion has a selected elongated shape, such as cylindrical, and may be fixed in length or may be adjustable in length. The overall extension length of the barrel portion from the end of the sports implement will vary, but in some cases can be from about 8 inches, in. to upwards of 24 in or more. Other lengths can be used including values above, below or within this range. Extension lengths of from about 10-15 in. have been found to be particularly suitable in some embodiments. The barrel portion is axially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the implement. In this way, use of the device is somewhat similar in some ways to a baseball batter “choking up” on a bat, but with the use of a standard baseball bat.

The training sequence as variously embodied herein involves attachment of the training device to the implement (in this case a baseball bat) by securing the clamp portion to the knob of the bat and, as required, affixing the barrel portion to the clamp portion. The player begins practicing swings from a normal batting stance. During each swing, the device provides sensory feedback to the player and, as required, other observers such as a coach with regard to the swing mechanics employed by the player. The sensory feedback can include visual feedback and tactile feedback.

According to at least some experts, a correct baseball bat swing involves the batter thrusting the knob of the bat in a direction towards the pitcher, so that the barrel and end of the bat naturally swing around in an arc for contact with the ball as the wrists snap around. The wrists should be sufficiently forward of the torso of the batter such that, as the bat snaps around, a distal end of the barrel portion passes in close albeit clearing relation to the torso. The hips should rotate first, followed by the shoulders. The hands should stay inside the ball, meaning that the hands travel closely to the torso rather than looping or being cast away, and the knob of the bat leads the hands toward the ball. The back armpit remains closed and the bat and hands are close to the body. This is sometimes referred to as staying connected, which is considered the opposite of casting.

Contrawise, if the batter is holding the bat with an improper stance and/or follows through with an improper form such as too closely to the torso, the improper swinging of the bat may result in nonpainful and non-injurious contact by the training device with the torso of the batter. Such tactile reinforcement can help the batter learn to properly hold and swing a bat with which the batter is familiar and with which the batter may subsequently use in a regular regulation contest (game). Even if contact is not made between the device and the player during a swing, the distal end of the device provides a visual indicator of the axial movement of the bat during the swing in relation to the body of the player, providing valuable feedback with regard to the propriety and effectiveness of the swing.

Once attached, the training device can be swung freely along with the sports implement, or can be used during actual batting practice so that contact with a pitched ball can be carried out with the training device attached.

The attachment portion of the training device can take a variety of forms, but in at least some embodiments is a cup shaped member that plasticly deforms onto the knob end of the bat or other implement. Because there are a variety of shapes and sizes of knobs, some variability may be built into the device to accommodate different sized bats. Similarly, different batters (e.g., male v. female, youth v. adult, large person v. small person, etc.) may necessitate shorter or longer extension lengths. Other features include an optional telescopic barrel portion, a soft cushion member at the distal end of the barrel portion, and so on.

Without limitation, a suitable extension length for a youth baseball player may be on the order of around 6-10 inches, whereas suitable extension lengths for an adult baseball player may be anywhere from 10-27 inches. Other lengths can be used such as from 8-28 inches, 10-15 inches, 15-25 inches, etc. Shorter and longer lengths can also be used, depending upon the requirements of a given application. Generally, a too-short extension length may reduce the effectiveness of the device in providing sensory feedback to the player, whereas a too-long extension length may be cumbersome and distracting to the player. Extension lengths in the range of about 10-15 inches have been found to be particularly suitable for a wide range of players.

While baseball bats are envisioned as a particularly suitable type of sports implement with which various embodiments can be practiced, other forms of implements may be used as well, such as but not limited to softball bats, cricket bats, tennis racquets, pickleball racquets, lacrosse sticks, hockey sticks, golf clubs, etc.

These and other features and advantages of various embodiments can be understood beginning with a review of FIG. 1A which provides a schematic depiction of a player (user) 10 in an initial (preparatory) swinging stance. In this example, the player 10 is a baseball player and the stance in a batting stance in preparation for hitting a pitched baseball.

As such, the player 10 grasps a handle portion of an otherwise conventional baseball bat 20 in preparation for a swing. A swing training device 30 is attached to and extends from the knob end of the baseball bat 20.

The subsequent swing by the player is shown in FIG. 1B. Ideally, during this swing the bat 20 should move along an arcuate path 40 in front of the player while a distal end of the training device 30 passes adjacent, and in clearing relation to, a torso region 50 of the player 10. It will be noted that, as the bat 20 is moved along path 40, the distal end of the training device 30 will move in an opposing arcuate path 60.

It is contemplated that the training device 30 will contact the torso region 50 if the player 10 uses an improper swinging technique (e.g., incorrect wrist action and/or arm extension, etc.), whereas the training device 30 will pass in close, non-contacting relation to the torso region 50 if the player uses a proper swinging technique. Such contact between the training device and the body of the player can provide immediate tactile feedback to the player, enabling the player to adjust the swinging technique during subsequent attempts.

Moreover, the device provides valuable visual feedback to the player during each swing. For example, a proper initial orientation in FIG. 1A may involve pointing the distal end of the device 30 toward the catcher's glove (or region where such glove would normally be located during a game). During the initial swing as the player 10 rotates the hips and shoulders and brings the implement 20 around, the distal end of the device 30 may be nominally thrust forward in an axial direction towards the pitcher (or region where the pitcher would normally be located).

While not limiting, in some cases the position at which the player 10 ideally strikes a pitched ball, represented by circle 70, will generally coincide with a position at which the distal end of the training device 30 is closest to the torso of the player 10 as the player 10 snaps the wrists around. As such, the swing can be understood as beginning with the player in a preparatory initial stance (position) at FIG. 1A, after which the player continuously moves through the swing to a contact position as shown at FIG. 1B, after which the swing continues to a final position (not shown) at the conclusion of path 40. It will be appreciated that the player 10 can practice correct swing mechanics with or without the presence of the ball 70.

FIG. 2 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional view of a training system 100 generally corresponding to FIGS. 1A-1B. The training system 100 includes a conventional baseball bat 101 and a swing training device 102. The baseball bat 101 is similar to the bat 20 in FIGS. 1A-1B and has a knob 101A from which extends an elongated body portion with a handle region 101B.

While not shown in FIG. 2, it will be understood that the elongated body portion continues to extend from the handle portion 101B to a barrel portion that provides an annular striking surface designed for contact with a pitched baseball, as generally illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B. The handle portion 101B may have an elastomeric outer grip surface formed of tape or other material to enable the batter to grasp the bat 101 with both hands in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1A-1B.

The training device 102 as embodied in FIG. 2 has two main elements: an attachment assembly 104 and a barrel assembly 105. The attachment assembly 104, also sometimes referred to as an attachment portion, a clamp portion, or a recess cup portion, is a cup shaped member configured to receive and attach to the knob 101A.

A variety of attachment assembly configurations are envisioned and will be discussed below in turn. At this point it will be appreciated that the attachment assembly 104 may be formed of elastomeric or other conformal material, and is provided with securement features to ensure the swing training device 102 remains affixed to the bat 101 during use. At the same time, the attachment assembly 104 allows the device to be subsequently removed from, and attached to, the same bat or a different bat as required.

The barrel assembly 105, also sometimes referred to as a barrel portion, is an elongated member that extends from the attachment assembly 104. The embodiment of FIG. 2 shows the barrel portion 105 to include telescopic members 106 and 108, each of which may take the form of a cylindrical hollow tube, although other configurations can be used. The barrel portion 105 is adjustable in length, so that the barrel member 106 is a first barrel member and a second barrel member 108 can be slidingly retracted into or extended from the first barrel member 106. In this way, the swing training device 102 can be adjusted to different overall lengths for the barrel assembly 105. However, the barrel portion 105 can alternatively be a fixed length barrel portion that is not adjustable in length (or can be cut to length).

For reference, the term “extension length” will be used herein to describe the overall projection length of the swing training device 102 beyond the proximal end of the sports implement; that is, how far the device 102 projects beyond the implement in a direction towards the player during the swing (see FIG. 1B). In FIG. 2, this extension length is denoted by arrowed line 105A, and represents the distance interval from the proximal end of the knob 101A to the distal end of the barrel portion 105 (including end cap 109, when used).

As will be appreciated, an effective extension length is generally required in order for the swing training device to provide effective training to the player. Ideally, the extension length 105A should be set such that, when proper swing mechanics are employed, the distal end of the barrel portion 105 comes in close relation to the torso of the player. Clearance distances of from about 1-10 inches are contemplated as particularly suitable, but other clearance distances are contemplated greater or lesser than this range.

In some embodiments, each of the first and second barrel members 106, 108 can be formed of any suitable rigid, semi rigid or flexible material(s) including but not limited to plastic, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, metal, plastic tubing, hose, foam, paper (such as a cardboard tube), etc.

While not necessarily required, in some cases it may be advantageous to use a lightweight material to reduce the mass of the swing device so as to have negligible effect upon the center of mass and other native characteristics of the bat 101 during use. The barrel portion 105 may be hollow, solid, perforated, latticed, etc. While the barrel portion 105 is cylindrical, other cross-sectional shapes can be used such as square, curvilinear, rectilinear, etc. The barrel portion 105 can be straight or curved, or take any other suitable shape depending on the requirements of a given application.

The barrel portion 105 can be permanently attached to the attachment assembly 104, or the barrel portion can be configured to be removed from and reattached to the attachment assembly. In one non-limiting example, disposable barrel assemblies such as in the form of cardboard tubes (such as paper towel tubes) can be used, since contact with the torso region during a swing may be immediately apparent through damage or deflection of the tube. Other configurations can be used.

While not limiting, the embodiment in FIG. 2 contemplates the barrels 106, 108 are formed of PVC pipe, with the barrel 106 having a nominal OD of about 1.660 in. (Schedule 40 1¼″) and the barrel 108 having a nominal OD of about 1.315 in. (Schedule 40 1″ pipe). These are merely illustrative, as other respective sizes and materials can be used. In one embodiment, each of the barrels 106, 108 are approximately 12 in. in length, permitting fixed extension length of about 12 in. (e.g., by removal of barrel 108) and variable lengths of from about 13 in. to about 23 in. (with the use of barrel 108). Other lengths can be used as desired.

Continuing with FIG. 2, an end cover 109 can be optionally provided to the distal end of the barrel assembly 105. The cover 109 can provide further protection against discomfort or injury to the player in the event of inadvertent contact with the training device. The cover can be a soft compliant member such as a rubber or other elastomeric end piece.

Protective clothing and padding should always be worn by the player, including during swing training using the training device. This will protect the player against the possibility of discomfort or injury from inadvertent contact with the distal end of the device. In some cases, the cover 109 can be coated with chalk or other transferrable material to provide feedback to the player during training, since marks on the protective clothing will indicate not only contact took place, but where on the torso region the contact took place. This can provide the player and/or coaching staff with further feedback to assist in swing form improvements.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show another swing training device 110 in accordance with some embodiments. The swing training device 110 has a “slip-on clamp” configuration, and generally comprises a one piece elastomeric clamp member 111 formed of a suitably compliant material to provide a cup shaped portion for engagement with a sports implement. In this case, the member 111 is formed of silicone, but other materials can be used.

The member 111 is formed of a single unitary piece with an annular main body portion 112 and a tapered coupling portion 114. A knob recess 116 is formed within the main body portion 112, and a barrel recess 118 is formed in the coupling portion 114.

As best viewed in FIG. 3B, the material is sufficiently compliant to stretch, allowing the knob 101A to be slipped into the knob recess 116. The conformal shape and high surface friction are sufficient to retain the clamp member 111 on the knob, as well as to accommodate a wide variety of different sizes, styles, shapes and dimensions of knobs.

A proximal end of a barrel 119 is slidingly received into the barrel recess 118. While not separately shown, a securement mechanism can be used to permanently or removably attach the barrel to the coupling portion 114. Suitable mechanisms can include adhesive, fasteners, grooves, threads, clips, rivets, etc. A compressive friction engagement of the barrel portion 119 within the barrel recess 118 can also be used. In some embodiments, the player may install the clamp member 111 onto the knob 101A, after which the player inserts the barrel portion 119 into the recess 118 to attach the barrel portion to the clamp member.

It will be appreciated that the clamp member 111 can take other forms, shapes and configurations as required so that the embodiment of FIGS. 3A-3B is merely illustrative and is not limiting. The clamp member 111 can readily be incorporated in any of the various swing devices described herein, including the fixed length swing device depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B or the adjustable length swing device depicted in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 4A through 4D show another swing training device 120 in accordance with further embodiments. The device 120 includes a cup-shaped attachment assembly 121 with a “compressive collar” configuration to provide a cup recess as before. The assembly 121 has a main body 122 with segmented fingers (retention tabs) 124. In the example of FIG. 4A, a total of three (3) tabs 124 are provided, although other numbers of tabs and spacings can be used. In this case, a deformable plastic or similar material is suitable for use to form the main body 122. A tapered extension portion 122A extends from the main body 122.

As best shown in FIG. 4C, the main body 122 is hollow and has a single passageway 126 extending therethrough. The passageway 126 is bounded by an upper knob aperture 128 and a lower barrel aperture 130. An annular retention groove 131 (FIG. 4C) extends around an outer surface of each of the respective retention tabs 124. The groove 131 is sized to receive and retain an adjustable strap 132, as best depicted in FIG. 4B. the strap 132 may use hook and loop fasteners or similar to secure the main body 122 to the knob 101A (see FIG. 4D). Other configurations can be used, however, such as an elastomeric ring, etc.

The swing training device 120 is fairly characterized as a three-piece assembly. To install the attachment assembly 121, the user deflects the retention tabs 124 to insert the knob 101A into a cup shaped recess of the passageway 126 through the knob aperture 128. The tabs deflect and spring back into place, and the user attaches the strap 132 to secure the knob laterally within the main body 122.

A threaded barrel assembly 134 includes a cylindrical body portion 136 and a threaded shaft portion 138. As before, the barrel assembly 134 can be formed of any suitably rigid material such as metal, plastic, etc. To complete installation of the attachment assembly 121, the user threadingly advances the threaded shaft portion 138 up through the barrel aperture 130 to engage a set of internal threads 139. The barrel assembly 134 continues to be advanced until a distal end 1310A of the threaded shaft portion 138 contactingly engages a lower surface 101C of the knob 101A.

In this way, the attachment assembly 121 is lockingly secured to the knob 101A, both laterally via the fingers 124 and strap 132, and axially via the fingers 124 and the shaft portion 138. The assembly 121 can be subsequently removed by reversing the foregoing operations. As with the assembly 110, the assembly 121 can accommodate a wide range of different styles, sizes and dimensions of knobs. While not necessarily required, it is contemplated that the player will secure the attachment assembly 121 to the implement (e.g., knob), threadingly insert the barrel 136, then affix the strap 132.

FIGS. 5A through 5C show yet another swing training device 140 that can be used for swing training as disclosed herein. The device 140 is characterized as having a “threaded coupling configuration” and uses a threaded collar arrangement to both secure the barrel assembly and the knob of the bat.

The swing training device provides a cup-shaped attachment assembly 141 with a main body 142 which, as before, provides a cup shaped recess 144 to receive the knob 101A. The main body 142 can be formed of flexible, elastomeric or rigid/semi-rigid material as required, including a single piece conformable arrangement as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B or a segmented finger-based arrangement as shown in FIGS. 4A-4D. As before, an extension portion 146 extends downwardly from the main body 142 and includes a lower barrel recess 148, as best viewed in FIG. 5B. A set of exterior threads 150 annularly extend about an exterior surface of the extension portion 146 as shown.

The device 140 is also characterized as a three-piece assembly, with a barrel 152 and a threaded collar 154 in addition to the main clamp portion formed from the main body 142 and extension 146. While the barrel 152 can be formed of any of the aforementioned materials, a flexible hose or similar construction is particularly suitable for this embodiment as well. The collar 154 can be formed of rigid/semi rigid material such as plastic or PVC, and includes an interior recess 156 with inwardly directed threads 158.

To attach the swing training device 140, the player inserts the knob 101A into the knob recess 144 as before (see FIG. 5C). The player next inserts a distal end 152A of the barrel 152 through the interior recess 156 of the collar 154 and into seated abutment within the barrel recess 148. The player next threadingly engages the collar 154 with the extension portion 146 to a fully tightened position. The tightening of the collar secures the barrel 152 and, in at least some cases, further secures the knob 101A within the main body recess 144. Additional securement mechanisms, such as the strap 132 in FIG. 4B, can be further used as desired.

A number of alternatives can be incorporated into these various configurations. For example, in some embodiments the main body of the attachment assembly can be open to one side to allow the player to deformably slide the knob (or the distal end of another sports implement) into the knob recess. In other embodiments, the retention ring or threaded collar can be sized to initially slide onto the handle portion of the bat (or other sports implement) and then be lowered for engagement. A split ring approach can be used, as can a radiator-style, threaded fastener actuated clamp. These and other alternative configurations will readily occur to the skilled artisan in view of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show additional views of swing training devices in accordance with further embodiments. FIG. 6A shows a fixed length device 160 with an attachment assembly 162 and elongated barrel assembly 162. In this case, the barrel assembly 162 is a single-piece element having a fixed length. Any suitable length can be used, such as but not limited to a range of from about 8 in. to about 28 in. Other lengths can be used outside of this range. The barrel assembly 162 can be cut to a desired length as well.

FIG. 6B shows a variable length device 170 with an attachment assembly 172 and elongated barrel assembly 174 made up of first and second telescopic barrel portions 176, 178. As before, the length of the device 170 can be adjusted over any suitable range. It will be appreciated that the respective swing training devices 160, 170 can incorporate any of the various clamp portions described above, or can use a clamp portion having a different but related configuration as required.

FIG. 7 shows aspects of another variable length device 180, which includes a first barrel portion 182 and a second barrel portion 184. It will be noted that either the outer first barrel portion 182 or the inner second barrel portion 184 can be attached to an associated clamp portion as desired. An interior retention feature 184 is affixed to and extends from an interior sidewall surface 185 of the first barrel portion 182. The retention feature can take any number of suitable forms including an embedded o-ring or other elastomeric member, a projection, a spring biased locking mechanism, etc.

A series of spaced apart retention grooves 186 extend into an outer sidewall surface 187 of the second barrel portion 184. In this way, the user can adjustably lock the relative insertion depth of the second barrel portion 184 into the first barrel portion 182 to adjust the overall length in selected gradients provided by the grooves 186. In some embodiments, the grooves are spaced about 1 in. apart, but other granularities of adjustment can be used, including infinite adjustments.

The respective tab and groove arrangement shown in FIG. 7 can be reversed so that the projection tab 184 extends from the outer surface 187 and the grooves 186 are formed in the inner surface 185. Other securement mechanisms to facilitate adjustments in the length of the barrel portion can be used including but not limited to detents, telescopic sliding arrangements, segments that can be attached or removed, etc., so the arrangement in FIG. 7 is merely exemplary and is not limiting.

FIGS. 8A through 8C show yet another embodiment for a swing training device 190 similar to the devices described above. The swing training device 190 is referred to as having an elastomeric sleeve configuration with a cup-shaped attachment assembly 192 and a barrel portion 194. The attachment assembly 192 (cup recess portion) takes the form of an elastomeric sleeve, which is cylindrically shaped and formed of a suitable elastomeric material (e.g., silicone, latex, etc.).

The sleeve 192 is slipped onto a knob 196 of a sports implement, and a threaded section 198 of the barrel portion 194 is threadingly advanced into a lower portion of the sleeve, as shown. The threaded portion 198 may be advanced until an upper end is brought into close relation to, or even contact with, a lower surface of the knob 196, as shown in FIG. 8C. The barrel portion 194 may be attached prior to or after attachment of the sleeve 192 to the knob 196. Once installed, the device 190 is aligned along a longitudinal implement axis 199 of the sports implement.

While not limiting, it is contemplated that the inner wall of the sleeve 192 is cylindrically shaped and sized to compressingly engage the threads of the threaded portion 198 so that the elastomeric material conforms to the threads as shown. This arrangement retains the engagement of the sleeve 192 with the barrel portion 194, even after multiple swings have been taken by the player during training.

Without limitation, in some embodiments the length of the sleeve 192 is about 4 inches, the length of the barrel portion 194 is about 10.25 inches, and the overall weight of the device is about 2.7 ounces (about 76 grams). The barrel portion 194 take a hollow, cylindrically shaped configuration as shown and is formed of a relatively lightweight material such as plastic, so that the barrel portion 194 accounts for less than 50% of the overall weight of the device. Other values can be used.

The sports implement in FIG. 8C is contemplated as comprising a baseball bat with a flared knob 196, rather than a standard knob as depicted previously. Any number of knob configurations can be accommodated by the various embodiments including cone knobs, bell knobs, flared knobs, etc. The bats may be wood, aluminum, composite, hybrid, etc. While not limiting, it is contemplated that the player will use a certified bat (or other sports implement) that is legal for normal competition and is the implement that the player is accustomed to using during games. The swing training device will not interfere with or alter the feel of the implement as perceived by the user, including altering (in any substantial way) the weight, mass, center of gravity, response, performance, etc. of the implement.

FIGS. 9A through 9C show another swing training device 190A somewhat similar to the various elements described previously, including the device 190 in FIGS. 8A-8C. The device 190A includes a cup-shaped attachment assembly 192A (cup recess portion) and a barrel portion 194A. As before, the attachment assembly 192A is affixed to a knob 196A of a sports implement (baseball bat). In this case, the assembly 192A includes deflectable tangs, or fingers 192B, which are secured using a securement strap 197A (see FIGS. 4A-4D).

The barrel portion 194A is again formed of a lightweight material and takes a hollow cylindrical configuration as shown. A threaded portion 198A extends from a proximal end to threadingly engage a lower recess portion of the attachment assembly 192A as before. Attachment of the device 190A is aligned along longitudinal implement axis 199A, as before.

Without limitation, in some embodiments the length of the cup portion 192A is about 2.9 inches, the length of the barrel portion 194A is about 10 inches, and the overall weight of the device is about 5.1 ounces (about 144 grams). As before, the barrel portion 194A is formed of a relatively lightweight material such as plastic, so that the barrel portion 194A accounts for less than 50% of the overall weight of the device. Other values can be used.

The various embodiments described thus far have generally been directed to a baseball (or softball) bat type sports implement. This is not limiting, as the various embodiments presented herein can be utilized in any number of other types of applications, as generally depicted by FIGS. 10A through 10F. It will be appreciated that the diagrams in these figures are of a schematic nature and are not represented to scale.

A pickleball training system 200 is depicted in FIG. 10A, with a conventional pickleball racquet 201 to which a training device 202 is attached. The training device 202 may be sized to accommodate the end portion of a handle 204 as before, with adjustments made due to the different diameter and shape of the pickleball racquet 201 as compared to the knob of a baseball bat.

It will be recognized that, unlike the baseball bat examples discussed above, the handle 204 is grasped by only a single hand of the player to manipulate a striking surface 206 using a forehand or backhand swing. As such, the training device 204 may be configured to have a sufficient length to ensure these and other motions by the player are sufficiently extended to avoid contact between the distal end of the training device 202 and the torso of the player.

FIG. 10B shows a tennis training system 210 with an otherwise conventional tennis racquet 211 to which is attached a tennis swing training device 212. As before, the device 212 is attached to a distal end of a handle 214. While tennis swings can be either single handed or double handed and can involve forehand, backhand, overhead and scooped movements, similar principles can be applied to establish an appropriate extension length for the device 202 during such motions.

In some cases, one particular swing type may require a first extension length while a different swing type may require a different, second extension length. As such, it may be particularly useful to provide tennis swing devices such as 212 with adjustability features as described above in FIGS. 2, 6A and 7 to accommodate different stroke types.

FIG. 10C is a cricket training system 220 having an otherwise conventional cricket bat 211 and cricket swing training device 222. As with the baseball bats discussed above, cricket bats such as 221 are normally grasped with both hands such as via handle 224 to enable the player to strike the ball via surface 226. As such, depending on the dynamics and style of play, suitable lengths can be provided for the training device 222.

FIG. 10D shows a lacrosse training system 230 and includes an otherwise conventional lacrosse stick 231 and lacrosse training device 232. The stick 231 has an elongated handle 234 and a striking surface 236 in the form of a shallow net. As such, unlike the previously described sports implements, a lacrosse player usually holds the stick 231 with hands relatively far apart, with one hand near the base (adjacent the device 232) and the other hand closer to the net 236. Nevertheless, the various motions employed to catch and throw a ball provide swing mechanics that can be improved through the use of a suitably sized device 232.

FIG. 10E shows a golf training system 240 in which an otherwise conventional golf club 231 (in this case, a short iron such as a 9 iron or pitching wedge) has a golf swing training device attached to a handle portion 244 thereof. In this case, the golf club is a short iron (such as a 9 iron or pitching wedge) with an appropriately sized and angled striking surface (club face) 246. However, the swing device can be adapted for other clubs, including drivers and putters. As before, the device 242 can ensure full arm extension and other mechanics of the swing during training.

Finally, FIG. 10F shows a hockey training system 250 in which an otherwise conventional hockey stick 251 has a hockey swing training device 252 attached to a distal end of a handle portion 254 of the stick. As with the lacrosse stick 231 in FIG. 10D, the hockey stick 251 in FIG. 10F is grasped by the player with hands spaced apart to provide various movements and shots using both sides of a striking surface (blade) 256 to engage a puck (not shown). Appropriately sized devices 252 can be used for various shots, as before. Other forms of sports implements can be used as well. In each case, the effective length of the barrel portion of each of these various embodiments provides an effective length that is at least 80% of the overall length of the device.

FIG. 11 provides a flow chart for a swing training routine 300 carried out in accordance with the foregoing discussion. While the routine 300 can be used with any of the various sports implements depicted in FIGS. 10A-10F, for purposes of providing a concrete example, the routine will be discussed in the context of a player using a baseball bat as referenced previously. It will be appreciated that the various steps in FIG. 11 are merely exemplary and are not limiting, so that the steps may be omitted, appended, altered, performed in a different order, etc.

The routine 300 commences at step 302 where a swing training device is provided having a cup-shaped attachment assembly (also referred to as a cup recess portion) and a barrel portion, as variously described above. Without limitation, cup recess portions include elements 104, 111, 121, 141, 162, 172, and 192/192A, and barrel portions include elements 106, 108, 119, 136, 152, 164, 176, 178, 180 and 194/194A. These respective elements are also depicted in FIGS. 10A-10F for non-bat implements.

The cup recess portion may be slid, stretched, clamped, strapped, or otherwise attached to the proximal end of the implement, depending upon the configuration of the swing training device. It is contemplated that the cup recess portion can be subsequently removed from and replaced onto the implement as required without damage to or alteration of the implement, while serving to retain the device on the implement even after multiple swings.

Once the cup recess portion of the swing training device has been affixed to the handle-end of the bat, the barrel portion is affixed to the cup recess portion, as shown by step 304. Some embodiments contemplate that the cup recess portion will be attached first, after which the barrel portion will be secured to the cup recess portion. Other embodiments contemplate securement of the barrel portion to the cup recess portion first, after which the cup recess portion is affixed to the implement. In still further embodiments, the barrel portion is permanently affixed to the cup recess portion so that the device is a one-piece integrated device, and step 304 is omitted by the player.

As desired, the overall length of the barrel portion is optionally adjusted at step 306. If the barrel portion is a fixed length such as shown in FIG. 6A, this step may be omitted. On the other hand, if the barrel portion is configured to be adjustable, such as a telescopic arrangement as shown in FIG. 6B, the barrel portion may be adjusted to an appropriate length.

As noted above, the barrel portion is intended to be lightweight so as to add substantially no perceptible angular momentum or other forces to the implement. As such, the barrel portion may be formed of compliant material such as lightweight, hollow plastic tubing, etc., although other materials may be used. In this case, further embodiments may comprise providing the swing training device with a first overall length, and step 306 involves cutting the barrel portion to an appropriately shorter second overall length, to meet the requirements for a given player.

With the swing training device now appropriately configured and attached, the player proceeds at step 308 to assume a preparatory swing stance. This includes grasping the handle portion of the bat (or other implement) and orienting the body in preparation for a swing (see FIG. 1A). Care should be taken to perform step 308, and the subsequent steps, in a safe and open outdoor area that is free from personnel and obstructions. A batting cage or playing field is a suitable location, but not required.

As noted previously, in the context of a baseball or softball bat, the distal end of the barrel portion may be generally pointed at the location behind the batter where the catcher's mitt will be located. The extension of the barrel portion allows the player to quickly confirm through visual observation that the barrel portion is appropriately oriented (see FIG. 1A), since the barrel portion will nominally be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the implement (e.g., axes 199, 199A).

The player proceeds to swing the sports implement (e.g., bat) and swing training device together through a normal swing, step 310. This can include an attempt to strike a ball or other playing object, or can be a free-form practice swing.

It is contemplated that as the player (user) swings, the proximal end of the sports implement to which the swing training device is attached will be thrust in a forward direction by the hands of the player as the player successively pivots the hips and shoulders. The barrel portion again serves to provide a visual indication of the correct orientation of the implement as the player thrusts the knob of the bat toward the pitcher; ideally, the distal end of the barrel portion should be pointing toward the pitcher location during this initial part of the swing.

As the player continues with the swing, the striking surface of the sports implement will be brought around along an arcuate path (see FIG. 1B) and the distal end of the barrel portion will similarly be brought around in a corresponding arcuate path towards the torso of the player. The barrel portion thus continues to provide sensory feedback to the player through the swing, both in the form of visual feedback and, in some cases, tactile feedback with the torso of the player. It will be appreciated that, during a correct swing, a distal end of the barrel portion of the swing training device will pass in adjacent clearing relation to the torso region of the player, whereas during an incorrect swing, the distal end of the barrel portion may contact the torso region of the player or otherwise move in an undesired manner.

Decision step 312 thus determines whether correct barrel portion movement was obtained during the swing; if not, improper swing mechanics were employed, which will be noted by the player as shown by step 314. The player will evaluate the sensory feedback provided by the device, and make suitable adjustments to the swing to correct.

On the other hand, if placement and movement of the barrel portion was correct, the player will note that proper swing mechanics were employed, at least with respect to hand and arm placement relative to the torso. Further adjustments may be necessary to the swing mechanics, but the player will note that at least this portion of the swing is fundamentally sound, and both correct and incorrect axial positions of the implement during the swing can be evaluated and addressed.

Other feedback may be evident to the player as well as a result of step 316; for example, if the player is using the swing training device at a batting cage, the player may observe that balls are being struck correctly and satisfactory hits are being made by the player as a result of correct positioning and movement of the barrel portion throughout the swing. Indeed, it has been the personal experience of the inventor to observe numerous baseball and softball players, both young and old, exhibit immediate and drastic hitting improvement in a matter of a few pitches when using the swing training device for the first time in a batting cage.

Decision step 318 determines whether additional swings are desired; if so, the routine passes back to step 308 and the player prepares for a subsequent swing. This continues until the training session is concluded, as shown at step 320. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the device will be removed from the implement, and, as desired, the player will subsequently use the device in an official game.

It will be noted that the relative length of the device will be a function of a number of factors. In all cases, however, the device will have an overall extension length from the sports implement that is at least a minimum selected percentage of an overall length of the sports implement. This will tend to vary by type of sports implement.

For example, baseball bats come in a variety of lengths. Beginning players (such as t-ball and coach pitch players) in the age range of from 5-7 years may use bat lengths in the range of from about 24 in. to 26 in. Older youth players (8-10 years) may use bats with lengths of from about 26 in. to 30 in. Still older youth players (11-15 years) may use bats from about 30 in. to about 32 in. High school varsity, college and professional players will tend to use bats in the range of from about 33 in. to about 34 in.

Generally, the size (both length and weight) of a bat for a given player will be selected based on the physiology of that player, among other factors. As noted above, extension lengths may be in the range of 8-10 inches for youths and in the range of from 10-15 inches (or more) for adults. As such, for baseball bats and similar, an extension length of from about 30% (8/26) to about 45% (15/34) of the bat length may be appropriate in many cases, although other percentages can be used.

Other sports implements may have other effective length ratios. Shorter sports implements such as pickleball racquets are relatively short so the relative length may be upwards of 100% of the length of the racquet or more. Other, longer sports implements, such as hockey and lacrosse sticks, may use relatively shorter swing training devices with effective lengths of as little as about 20% of the overall length of the implement. Other ranges can be used. Nevertheless, because the swing training device is purposefully intended to pass closely to the torso which having minimal weight distal the cup attachment portion, minimum effective lengths of at least 20%, 30%, 50%, 75%, or even 100% of the overall length of the implement may be used in some embodiments. Similarly, effective lengths in absolute dimensions may be from 8-28 inches, with suitable lengths including within this range such as 10 inches, 12 inches, 15 inches, 25 inches, etc., or suitable lengths outside this range including lengths less than 8 inches and greater than 28 inches.

It will now be appreciated that the various embodiments presented herein provide a number of advantages and benefits over the existing art. The swing training device can be used with any number of different types of sports implements to provide tactile feedback to a player to help develop and improve a swing.

The player can use a familiar sports implement otherwise normally used during competition play, and the swing training device will not substantially alter the weight or center of gravity of the implement. In this way, the implement has the same feel to the player both with and without the attachment of the swing training device, unlike weights or other devices that intentionally change these dynamics. The barrel further provides visual feedback to the player of the axial alignment of the sports implement prior to and during the swing, and tactile feedback via contact (or lack thereof) with the torso of the player during an improper swing.

It is to be understood that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of various embodiments of the present disclosure have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of various embodiments of the disclosure, this detailed description is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of structure and arrangements of parts within the principles of the present disclosure to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.