Patent Application
20160175677
The present invention relates generally to an athletic training apparatus, and more specifically, to a martial arts training device including a platform and mount configurable into multiple variations of striking elements. The various configurations of the device provide a means of training for different exercises and combat strategies.
A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.
Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or registered trademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with the applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of example and should not be construed as descriptive or to limit the scope of this invention to material associated only with such marks.
Fitness training spans many purposes, including health and wellbeing as well as improving skill in a particular sport or athletic competition. Among the many athletic activities for which extensive training is desirable, if not required, is the martial arts.
Martial arts may refer to any number of codified systems for combat, whether developed for competition, self-defense, or physical and spiritual wellbeing. Numerous combat systems exist, including unarmed systems that focus on striking techniques such as boxing, kickboxing, Wing Chun, Taekwondo, Karate, Muay Thai, or Sanshou, and systems that focus on grappling such as hapkido, judo, sambo, sumo, aikido, jiu-jitsu, or wrestling. Other systems focus on a hybrid of these techniques. Today, a number of sports and combat competitions have been recognized by the mainstream. A popular example is the full contact sport of mixed martial arts (MMA), which has risen to global popularity.
Competing in a hybrid combat system, MMA fighters implement both striking and grappling techniques from different martial arts sources, thus implementing fighting styles that require standing and on-the-ground positions. Regardless of the style chosen by a student of this art, the various techniques often require different opponents (i.e. that are knowledgeable in a particular discipline) or different training equipment, particularly because of the wide range in styles often adopted by an MMA fighter. Furthermore, because the mixed martial arts or hybrid combat styles are often continuously evolving, as new techniques emerge there is often a need for new training styles and new training equipment.
Ground and pound may refer to an overall strategy of taking a combat opponent down in order to knock him out or induce submission—the technique involving first strikes from a dominant position typically above the grounded opponent. More specifically, ground and pound may involve establishing a dominant position by side mounting, half mounting, or otherwise mounting an opponent, followed by reigning down strikes including punches, elbows and forearm strikes to the downed fighter. As with other less complicated striking techniques, students of this technique would benefit from equipment that simulates or aids the student fighter to hone in on the relevant skills required to properly execute the strategy.
Conventional heavy punching bags, speed bags, and other striking equipment may be suitable for some basic training, but as a student or fighter desires to develop the more complicated techniques, it becomes exceedingly difficult to rely on prior art equipment. For example, the prior art does not disclose athletic training equipment that adequately engages the skills required for techniques such as the ground and pound strategy.
Therefore, there exists a previously unappreciated need for a new and improved athletic training apparatus that helps an athlete to hone in on a variety of striking moves suitable for developing a variety of fighting techniques.
It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.
To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize other limitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present invention describes an athletic training apparatus, and more specifically, to a training device including a platform configurable into multiple forms of striking targets for training according to various martial arts techniques.
A training apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a planar platform; a spring member protruding from a top surface of the planar platform; a striking element supported by the spring protruding from the planar platform; and a base coupled to a bottom surface of the planar platform, the base including an angle adjustment mechanism for adjusting an angle position of the planar platform.
Another training apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a circular or octagonal planar platform; a spring support protruding from a top surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform; a striking element supported by the spring support protruding from the circular or octagonal planar platform; a base coupled to a bottom surface of the platform, the base including an angle adjustor for varying the angle position of the circular or octagonal planar platform; one or more track receiving members coupled to the bottom surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform, wherein the height of the base is greater than the height of the one or more tack receiving members.
A training assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprises: one or more longitudinal support members configured to attach to a vertical support structure or a wall; a lateral support structure removably coupled to the one or more longitudinal support members in a manner so that a height of the lateral support structure may be adjusted; one or more height adjustors for adjusting the height of the lateral support structure; one or more tracks situated on the lateral support structure; and a training apparatus configured to register with the one or more tracks of the lateral support structure, the training apparatus comprising: a circular or octagonal planar platform; a spring support protruding from a top surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform; a striking element supported by the spring support protruding from the circular or octagonal planar platform; a base coupled to a bottom surface of the platform, the base including an angle adjustor for varying the angle position of the circular or octagonal planar platform; one or more track receiving members coupled to the bottom surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform, wherein the height of the base is greater than the height of the one or more tack receiving members, the track receiving members configured to register with the one or more tracks of the lateral support structure.
It is an objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that aids a fighter's development of different striking techniques.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide versatile training apparatus for mixed martial arts skills such as punching, kicking, and other striking strategies.
It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a training apparatus that may be easily re-locatable.
It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus that may be converted to varying configurations for providing different striking platforms.
It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a training apparatus that may be easily used within a limited space.
It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a means to train for the ground and pound strategy.
These advantages and features of the present invention are not meant as limiting objectives, but are described herein with specificity so as to make the present invention understandable to one of ordinary skill in the art.
Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale in order to enhance their clarity and improve understanding of the various embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, elements that are known to be common and well understood to those in the industry are not depicted in order to provide a clear view of the various embodiments of the invention. The drawings that accompany the detailed description can be briefly described as follows:
In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments and applications of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying figures, which form a part thereof. Depictions are made, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced; however, it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Generally, the invention involves an athletic training apparatus relevant in the art of fitness training and martial arts, the device including a platform and mount configurable into multiple variations of striking elements. In an exemplary embodiment, the training apparatus may be configured to train for the ground and pound mixed martial arts strategy. Such configuration includes a platform with a spring component that supports a striking element. The platform is further supported by a base coupled to a bottom surface of the platform, wherein the base includes an angle adjustment mechanism for adjusting an angle position of the platform, whereby the striking element may be positioned at a desired angle. In exemplary embodiments, a track receiving member may be implemented with the platform, in order to transform the platform to a standing striking platform, for training or developing alternative striking strategies. In such embodiment, the platform may be removably coupled to a vertical mount or longitudinal free-standing structure via a lateral mounting that facilitates hanging the platform in an alternative configuration (i.e. with the bottom surface facing upwards, and the striking element hanging down)—this may enable, for example, using the striking element as a standing speed bag; alternatively, the platform may be removed from the mounting structure, and the implementation of a hanging striking element may be achieved instead. Hence, a training apparatus in accordance with the present invention may be versatile so as to provide multiple forms of striking targets for training according to various martial arts techniques.
Turning now to the figures,
Platform 101 may be constructed of any material that is durable, strong, and suitable for high impact training exercises. Since platform 101 may be exposed to high impacts from kicks or punches, damage may result to otherwise weak constructions; as such, platform 101 is typically constructed strong material such as a strong wood or plywood, aluminum, fiberglass, plastics, other metals, or combinations thereof. Platform 101 supports a flexible striking element and serves as the target for a variety of striking exercises or combat techniques. Typically, platform 101 may circular or polygonal without deviating from the scope of the present invention. In an exemplary embodiment, platform 101 is constructed of wood and circular in shape. In another exemplary embodiment, platform 101 is constructed of high-grade carbon fiber and Kevlar, which make for a tough durable surface with a light-weight construction. Of course other materials may be used without deviating from the scope of the present invention.
Traction component 102 typically comprises of a rim that envelopes a perimeter or circumference of platform 101, and adds a traction element to training apparatus 100. Traction component 102 may provide different functions: for example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, traction component may be implemented with a circular version of platform 101. In such embodiment, traction component 102 may include a tire-tread shape and composition including rubber, or similar traction element that allows a user to roll the apparatus across a gym's floor. Moreover, in alternative embodiments, for example wherein platform 101 includes an octagonal shape, traction component 102 may provide a source of a frictional force (μs) that prevents training apparatus 100 from slipping backwards or sideways as platform 101 is submitted to the impacts typical of the exercises for which the device is designed.
Spring component 103 may be any spring or spring activated component that may be configured to support a striking element. Spring component 103 may be any durable high energy spring suitable for receiving high impacts. Alternatively, spring element 103 may include any other component that provides a springing force capable of supporting a striking element during an impact and bringing the striking element back to a resting position after receiving the impact. Various well known springs typically used in gyms may be implemented without limiting the scope of the present invention.
Striking element 104 may include a variety of striking targets including any type of speed bag, cushion device, hitting element or any other type of component designed or suitable for receiving repeated impacts. As such, striking element 104 should be constructed so that it is durable, but flexible enough so as not to damage a user striking the component. Striking element 104 may be constructed of leather, synthetic plastics, or any other component suitable for striking repeatedly. Typically, striking element 104 is supported vertically above platform 101 with spring component 103, which protrudes from a center portion of platform 101. As such, platform 101 becomes the general target for various forms of exercise, and striking element 104 comprises the bull's-eye.
Base 105 is a supporting structure for platform 101, and provides a foundation to lay the apparatus atop a suitable training surface. Moreover, base 105 comprises several components: hinge mechanism 105a, and adjustment mechanisms 105c, 105d, and 105e. These components enable platform 101 to be adjusted at a variable angle in order for a user to practice striking strategies including the ground and pound fighting technique. Although several alternatives to base 105 may be provided, in the shown embodiment, base 105 includes several protrusions that form concaved recess configured to receive adjustment mechanism 105e. While hinge mechanism 105a allows platform 101 to swing upwards towards a perpendicular to surface 110, adjustment mechanism 105b and 105c allow platform 101 to maintain a fixed position by interlocking adjustment mechanism 105e with base 105 as shown. Of course, other designs that achieve the same purpose may be implemented without deviating from the scope of the present invention, including the use of other types of hinges, levers, springs or the like that may be implemented to raise platform 101 and keep it fixed and sturdy at a desired angle in relation to surface 110. Furthermore, locking mechanisms that keep base 105 locked against platform 101 may also be desirable to, for example, prevent hinge 105a from swinging open when training apparatus is lifted off surface 110. In order to achieve this, a clamp, lock, or any other type of locking mechanism may be implemented either on a bottom surface of platform 101, on hinge mechanism 105a, or in any other conceivable way of locking base 105 in place.
Once in place at a desired angle, a user may proceed to lean, kneel, or stand above platform 101 and directly punch or strike striking element repeatedly throughout an exercise routine. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, training apparatus 100 comprises: a planar platform; a spring member protruding from a top surface of the planar platform; a striking element supported by the spring protruding from the planar platform; and a base coupled to a bottom surface of the planar platform, the base including an angle adjustment mechanism for adjusting an angle position of the planar platform.
Additionally, in exemplary embodiments including the embodiment shown in
Turning to the next two figures,
More specifically, a side view of platform 101 illustrates base 105l comprising two parallel support members 111 (only one visible in this view). A support member 111 may have any shape, although the shape should provide an angled position that is desirable for a particular exercise. For example, support member 111 may have a general u-shape as shown, or other similar shape, with generally curved components that include a flat portion 112 at a bottom portion of the support members, which facilitate the platform to remain steady while at the fixed angle by providing a flatter surface that meets the ground. Further, support member 111 may be coupled to a bottom portion of platform 101 via adhesive means, bolts, screws, or any other means generally known in the art, so long as the attachment means, or coupling means allows for a sturdy design capable of withstanding the force of strikes from a user. In the shown embodiment, this may be achieved at portions 114 of support member 111. Furthermore, support member 111 may include traction components 113 to provide traction and prevent platform 101 from sliding when in use. Traction components 113 may be implemented in a variety of configurations such as around portion 112, or may be integral with or even surround the bottom portion of support member 112 (i.e. similar to how traction component 102 wraps around a portion of platform 101).
Turning now to the following figures, alternative embodiments for platform 101 include a circular platform as well as an octagonal platform.
Furthermore, although these embodiments show platform 101 including traction component 102 around a rim of platform 101, other embodiments may exclude this component without deviating from the scope of the present invention. In the following figures, training apparatus 100 is depicted without traction element 102.
Thus, another training apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention may comprise of: a circular or octagonal planar platform; a spring support protruding from a top surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform; a striking element supported by the spring support protruding from the circular or octagonal planar platform; a base coupled to a bottom surface of the platform, the base including an angle adjustor for varying the angle position of the circular or octagonal planar platform; one or more track receiving members coupled to the bottom surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform, wherein the height of the base is greater than the height of the one or more tack receiving members.
Lateral supports 201a and support members 201b may be constructed of a tough durable material such as a strong metal alloy. Of course, any other materials known in the art may be implemented without deviating from the scope of the present invention. Support members 201b typically provide stability as well as sturdiness to mounting structure 200. In exemplary embodiments such as the one shown, support members 201b should be strong enough to support a heavy punching bag (i.e. see
Tracks 202 may include any type of structure configured to register or mate with a complementary track receiving member—for example, track receiving members 106 of training apparatus 100. Thus, tracks 202 enable the two components 100 and 200 to assemble together in order to provide a different type of training structure. Although in the shown embodiment tracks 202 are used, other coupling means may be implemented, such as rails, clamps, hooks, or any other interlocking mechanisms known in the art, without deviating from the scope of the present invention.
Longitudinal members 203, which may connect substantially perpendicular with tracks 202 of lateral supports 201a, are configured to support lateral supports 201a and support members 201b, and are typically mountable to a wall or vertical support structure such as wall 210. This way, when training apparatus 100 registers or couples with mounting structure 200, training apparatus 100 may be positioned substantially parallel to the ground.
Component 204 may include any adjustment mechanism suitable for adjusting a height of the assembly (assembly 200a; see
Assembly 200a provides a training apparatus for different types of exercises, including striking and kicking exercises. Furthermore, other components may be added or substituted to aid in exercises that may be facilitated by assembly 200a—for example, and without deviating from the scope of the present invention, other striking elements may be coupled to platform 101, including target paddle pads, flat power strike paddles, spin kick targets, kicking paddle targets, heavy bags, double end bags, speed bags, dummies bags, or any other type of striking element suitable for using with the standing configuration provided by assembly 200a.
Thus, an athletic training assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, may comprise of: one or more longitudinal support members configured to attach to a vertical support structure or a wall; a lateral support structure removably coupled to the one or more longitudinal support members in a manner so that a height of the lateral support structure may be adjusted; one or more height adjustors for adjusting the height of the lateral support structure; one or more tracks situated on the lateral support structure; and a training apparatus configured to register with the one or more tracks of the lateral support structure, the training apparatus comprising: a circular or octagonal planar platform; a spring support protruding from a top surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform; a striking element supported by the spring support protruding from the circular or octagonal planar platform; a base coupled to a bottom surface of the platform, the base including an angle adjustor for varying the angle position of the circular or octagonal planar platform; one or more track receiving members coupled to the bottom surface of the circular or octagonal planar platform, wherein the height of the base is greater than the height of the one or more tack receiving members, the track receiving members configured to register with the one or more tracks of the lateral support structure.
Turning to the last figures or sketches,
An athletic training apparatus has been described. The foregoing description of the various exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and disclosure. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching without departing from the spirit of the invention.
The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/093,337 filed on Dec. 17, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62093337 | Dec 2014 | US |
