Patent Application
20140162849
The present invention relates generally to training and exercise devices. More particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a training device to aid in proper positioning and muscle memory for different sports related actions.
Strength training is becoming much more than the simple pumping iron that it used to be. The top athletes in the world have started participating in full body cardio/strength training combined workouts, and the idea has begun to trickle down to high school sports teams, as well as to the general public. Various sports, such as football, rugby, wrestling, hockey, basketball, lacrosse, and baseball, may require an athlete to exert force to move an opposing athlete, or to resist the opposing athlete's movement. For example, a football player on one side attempts to move (block) another player, while the second player is attempting to resist movement while also attempting to move the first player. Similarly, a baseball catcher attempting to tag a base runner may be called upon to resist the base runner's efforts to collide with the catcher with sufficient force to dislodge the baseball from the catcher's grasp.
In many sports, including those not explicitly mentioned, the movement or resistance of movement may be increased by the proper technique, as well as strengthening muscles associated with the proper technique and movement/resistance. For example, it is known that is ideal to lower one's center of gravity to either begin action to move another, or to resist movement. The lowered center of gravity creates a stronger base for resisting movement and/or beginning to thrust at another. Repetition of lowering one's center of gravity before contacting another creates muscle memory and also increases muscle mass, while decreasing muscle fatigue for the muscles associated with the action.
Therefore, the present invention provides for a training device, system, or apparatus, which provides for repetitive training for athletes and non-athletes alike, to train the muscles of the individuals in the proper technique.
It is therefore an object, feature, and/or advantage of the present invention to provide a training device for providing proper technique and muscle training
It is another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present invention to provide a training device that promotes a user to maintain a low stance and to keep one's head up controlling where he/she is going.
It is yet another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present invention to provide a training device that is be able to be kept out exposed to the weather for extended time without deteriorating its quality/function and be easily transportable for times of relocation.
It is still another object, feature, and/or advantage of the present invention to provide a training device that is modular in that it can be set up to be used by a single person or by up to five or more persons at a time.
It is a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present invention to provide a training device that is weight adjustable to allow users of various sizes and abilities to be able to operate.
It is still a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present invention to provide a training device that is at least bi-directional in use.
It is yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present invention to provide a training device that can be used by one person at a time or multiple people at the same time.
These and/or other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The present invention is not to be limited to or by these objects, features and advantages. No single embodiment need provide each and every object, feature, or advantage.
Generally, the disclosed invention is a training and exercise device that mimics or otherwise is similar to a rolling log. The core of the device is a cylindrical object laid horizontally on the ground. The cylinder can be moved (preferably pushed) by a user as a means of exercise and as a means of training for certain physical attributes, such as hand/foot co-ordination, cardiovascular exercise, strength training, that can be useful in certain sports, such as football, rugby, wrestling, hockey, basketball, lacrosse, and baseball, or for general physical training.
In some embodiments, an axle runs along the axis of the cylinder. This axis can then be linked to a sled or sleds or other devices that increase resistance for the user. In some instances, these sleds or other devices can have a means to have adjustable resistance, such as vertical pegs to receive and hold free weights. Additional embodiments include addition of tires, or containers to hold water, sand, or other readily available heavy materials. The log itself can be hollow, allowing for the introduction of additional weight, such as through the addition of water or sand.
The sled or sleds, which are bi-directional sleds, disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with the log roll device, but may also be able to be used independently with other training devices or methods. Further, the system could be modified to allow for improved indoor usage. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, the addition of material underneath the resistance devices or sleds to reduce abrasion against flooring, such as hardwood/parquet floors commonly found in basketball gyms. For example, carpet, felt, blankets, cotton, silk, or some similar cloth material can be secured around the base of the bi-directional sleds.
Therefore, according to some aspects of the invention, a training device is provided. The training device includes, at least in part, a cylindrical member, and at least one sled operatively attached to the cylindrical member. The at least one sled is movable in both a forward and rearward direction. Furthermore, the at least one sled is moved in a direction relative to the direction of rotation of the cylindrical member. The cylinder may include a compliant cover, such as a closed cell foam material, substantially covering the outer surface area of the cylinder. The sled, which may be multiple sleds, can be adjusted to increase the resistance provided by the sled or sleds for a user attempting to move the training device. This can be done by adding weights to the cylindrical member and/or sled or sleds.
According to additional embodiments of the invention, a training device is provided. The device includes, at least in part, a cylindrical member, an axle extending at least partially through the axis of the cylindrical member and being operatively connected to the cylindrical member such that the axle is able to rotate independently thereof, and at least one sled operatively attached to the axle. The at least one sled is movable in both a forward and rearward direction, and is capable of being moved in a direction relative to the direction of rotation of the cylindrical member.
According to additional embodiments of the invention, a training device is provided. The training device includes, at least in part, a hollow cylindrical member including a compliant member substantially covering the outer surface area of the cylindrical member, an axle extending at least partially through the axis of the cylindrical member and being operatively connected to the cylindrical member such that the axle is able to rotate independently thereof, a first sled member operatively connected to a first end of the axle, and a second sled member operatively connected to a second end of the axle. The first and second sled members capable of sliding in either forward or backward directions based upon the direction of movement of the cylindrical member.
Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the invention. Figures represented herein are not limitations to the various embodiments according to the invention and are presented for exemplary illustration of the invention.
The present invention relates to a training and/or exercise device 10, which mimics or otherwise is similar to a rolling device, such as a log. Components of the training and/or exercise device 10 include a cylindrical object 12, which may also be known as a log or a barrel. The cylinder 12 is laid upon a surface, such as the ground. A user pushes the cylindrical device 12 to roll the cylinder as a means of exercise and training for certain physical attributes, such as hand foot coordination, cardiovascular exercise, strength training, or technique training. In addition, a sled or sleds are attached to the cylindrical object 12, such that the sleds provide some resistance to the rolling of the cylindrical object 12. For example, there may be first and second sleds 32, 34, which are attached at opposite sides of the cylindrical object 12 to provide resistance when a user is pulling, pushing, or otherwise rolling the cylindrical device 12. In addition, an aspect of the invention provides that the sled or sleds may be bi-directional, such that the training device 10 can be used in either a forward or a reverse direction. This is advantageous over previous training devices in that the training device 10 does not have to be rotated or re-oriented to use in a different direction. Thus, when the training device is used in an area with limited space, the device can be used in a back and forth direction to optimize the limited amount of space for training and/or exercising. The bi-directional aspect of the training device 10 also increases the number of drills, exercises, etc. that can be done using the training device 10.
Therefore, the figures show various aspects, components, and embodiments of the training device 10 according to the present invention. For example,
In addition, when a PVC pipe or other material having a low coefficient of friction, is used to form the cylindrical object 12, a cover 14 may be positioned generally around the outer surface area of said pipe. The cover 14 is used to provide greater friction between the barrel device 12 and the ground. For example, PVC has a lower coefficient of friction than rubber, such that the PVC material may slip when rolled on some surfaces. The addition of a cover 14 will increase the coefficient of friction between the barrel device 12 and the ground such that the barrel device 12 will roll easily without or with mitigating slippage.
In addition, the cover material 14 can be selected such that it provides some comfort for a user of the training device 10. Therefore, the present invention contemplates that the cover can be used with any material used for the barrel 12. Some embodiments contemplate that the cover 14 comprises hydro turf or other polymer. The hydro turf material is a soft, durable, and weather resistant material. Other types of materials considered to be used as a cover 14 for the barrel device 12 may include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. Such type of foam is a closed cell foam type material, which increases comfort while providing a water resistant material. It should be appreciated that other types of materials not specifically mentioned may also be utilized with the invention, including various types of foam, rubber, plastic, or other composite. In addition, instead of having a cover material surrounding the PVC pipe creating the barrel device 12, it is contemplated that the barrel device 12 comprises a compliant or otherwise semi-rigid material. For example, the invention contemplates that the barrel device 12 comprises a rubber material with or without tread thereon. The rubber material will provide comfort to a user, while also providing friction between the barrel device 12 and the ground. Still further types of materials are contemplated to be used as both the cover and/or barrel device. Such materials may include, but are not limited to, foams, rubbers, plastics, or other composites.
As shown generally in
Whether or not a hollow barrel device 12 is used, the present invention contemplates the use of an axle 22 extending through the barrel device 12. The axle 22 includes a central portion 24 aligning generally with the central axis of the cylindrical barrel device 12. Furthermore, as shown in the figures, the axle 22 will extend beyond the length of the barrel device 12 and can include first and second bent portions 26, 28, along with the central portion 24. However, it should also be appreciated that the axle comprises multiple and/or separate sections. For example, instead of extending the length of the barrel and beyond, the axle may comprise shorter pieces that extend slightly into and away from the barrel 12. In both situations, the axle is able to rotate independently of the barrel device 12. The axle 22 shown in the figures is held in place by the use of a bearing member or assembly 16 positioned at or near the ends of the barrel 12. The bearing member 16 may be a single member with an aperture 18 therein, which is held in place by a plurality of spokes 20 spaced radially about the bearing member 16. For example, the spokes 20 may comprise turnbuckles, such that the precise length can be obtained for each of the spokes to center the bearing member 16 at or near the opposite ends of the barrel device 12. The turnbuckles would be set to the same length to position the axle in line with the axis of the barrel 12, and would be affixed to both the barrel member 12 and the bearing member 16. The bearing member 16 could also include ball bearings or other types of friction reducing members to further allow the independent rotation of the barrel device 12 relative to the axle 22. Thus, the axle 22 in the barrel device 12 will be able to rotate independent of one another during use of the training device 10.
In addition, the bearing member 16 may take the form of first and second spoke members 20, which are sized in length to the inner diameter of the barrel device 12. The spoke members 20 in
The axle 22 can comprise a coated steel pipe, which is also known as EMT pipe. A diameter of the axle 22 may be one and one-quarter inch, however, it is to be appreciated that additional diameters of pipes may be used, and the exact dimension of the axle is not essential to the invention. In addition, apertures, such as an aperture 30 shown in the figures, may be made in the axle 22 to allow the axle 22 to attach to other members of the training device 10, as will be described herein.
When the barrel device 12 is rolled in a particular direction, the independent connectivity of the axle 22 will provide that the axle 22 does not roll, which allows the axle 22 to pull the sled members 32, 34, which increases the resistance of the training device 10. Thus, the increased resistance of the training device 10 during operation provides for muscle training, cardio vascular training, and other muscle memory techniques to provide a user with a desired outcome of a workout. The sleds 32, 34 may be connected to the axle 22 via chain 48 or other connecting member, which can be attached to the axle aperture 30. As shown best in
The connection of the chain 48 at the sled member 32 will allow the wrapped portion of the chain 48 to move from one end of the sled member 30 (a front portion) to the opposite end of the sled member 32 (the rear portion). This allows the sleds 32, 34 to be bi-directional. The bi-directional features of the sled members 32, 34 allows the training device 10 to be used in a forward or reverse manner, which is advantageous over previous training devices, which can only be used in one direction. The training device 10 does not have to be rotated or otherwise re-oriented when reaching a certain location, and can simply be used in the opposite direction to provide for additional training or exercise drills. Furthermore, while a chain 48 is provided to attach the sled members 32, 34 to the barrel device 12, it should be appreciated that any connecting member can be used, which is able to withstand the forces acting upon said connecting member. A chain is but one member capable of meeting these requirements, but the present invention is not to be limited to said use of a chain. A steel chain is strong enough to tolerate the constant force applied during the exercise and use of the training device 10, and will not bind when switching directions from one direction to the opposite direction.
The sled members 32, 34, which are shown in
As shown throughout the figures, the first and second sled members 32, 34 are substantially identical to one another. Therefore, only one sled will be described with regard to the components thereof, with the other sled comprising substantially the same components in substantially the same manner. As shown in
Extending generally above and from the front of the sled 32 to the rear of the sled 32 is a connection or arched connection bar 42. As shown in
Also shown in the figures of the sled 32 is a plate member 44 extending generally from one slide bar 36 to the other. The plate may be attached to each of the slide bars 36, such as by welding. Attached to and extending from the plate 44 is a vertical bar 46. The plate 44 and vertical bar 46 may be used to increase the weight of the sled members 32, 34, which will increase the resistance of the training device 10. For example, as shown in some figures, a weight 54, such as a free weight, may be added to the sled members 32, 34 at the vertical bar 46. A free weight 54 can be slid upon the vertical bar 46 and rested on the plate 44. The vertical bar 46 will prevent the weight 54 from moving on the sled member 32 during use of the training device 10, and the plate 44 will provide a surface for the weight 54 to reside upon such that the weight 54 will not contact the ground. Thus, substantially the only portion of the sled members 32, 34 riding on the ground will be the sliding bars 36 and/or front or rear upward sloping portions 38, 40, which provides for the ideal or desired amount of resistance between the sled members 32, 34 and the ground.
The various components of the sleds 32, 34, except for the plate, can comprise a coated steel pipe, such as an EMT pipe. However, other shapes and materials may also be used to make the sleds, such as square tubing, PVC pipes, or even other plastics, rubbers, or composites. The diameters of the steel pipe can vary depending upon the desired size of sled. The plate 44 may also comprise a steel material to be able to support a weighted member 54 held thereon. The portions of the sleds 32, 34 can be welded to one another to form the sleds. However, the smooth transition between the portions 38, 40 of the sleds 32, 34 may be desired or otherwise preferred. For example, as the connection chain 48 is configured to ride along the arched bar 42 of the sled members 32, 34, it will be preferred that the connection bar 42 does not include obstructions thereon, which could prevent or otherwise slow down or reduce the movement of the chain 48 on the connection bar 42. Furthermore, obstructions on the sliding bars 36 and/or front and rear bent 38, 40 or sloped portions of the sleds 32, 34 can increase the resistance between the sled members 32, 34 and the surface, which can cause unintended circumstances to arise when using the training device 10.
While the figures of the present invention include the use of first and second sled members 32, 34, it is contemplated that the invention includes only a single sled member. For example, another connection member (not shown) may extend from a portion of a first sled 32 to a portion of the second sled 34. For example, a connection member may rise from one of the sliding bars 36 of the first sled member 32, crossover, and then extend downwardly to a sliding bar of the second sled member 34. Such a bar could form an arch between the first and second sled members 32, 34. This would connect the sled members 32, 34 to provide only a single sled. The arched connection bar (not shown) between the first and second sled members 32, 34, could provide advantages to the training device 10. For example, the connection bar could be set at a height such that a user must remain below the height of the connection bar before contacting the barrel device 12. This would provide an additional training aspect to teach a proper technique to an individual using the training device 10 to stay low and to lower one's center of gravity while continually moving forward. The connection between the first and second sled members 32, 34 could also provide that the sled members 32, 34 will move in unison. For example, the invention contemplates that multiple users may use the training device 10 at the same time. Thus, the users will align side-by-side and will try to contact the barrel device 12 at the same time to begin movement thereof. Connecting the first and second sled members 32, 34 to form a single sled member will aid in keeping the sled members 32, 34 generally parallel to one another during rolling of the barrel device 12, regardless of whether one user is moving at a faster pace then said other user. Other advantages obvious to those skilled in the art may also arise from the use of connecting the first and second sled members 32, 34 to form a single sled member.
However, it is also contemplated that the sleds be designed such that they are best used in a mono-directional manner. For example, only one end of the sled or sleds need be upwardly sloped to be best moved in that direction. The opposite end may be any manner, such as ending at a portion that is substantially parallel to the ground. This would provide for ease of sliding in one direction, but not as much in the opposite direction. In addition, other variations of sleds can be used that do not have any sort of upward-sloped portion. The sleds are to be used for purposes of providing resistance, and in many instances, variable resistance, so as to provide a variable training device that can be used by persons of variable age, size, ability, strength, and/or other capabilities.
Other aspects of the invention are shown in the figures. For example, a strap or straps 56 may be connected to the axle 22, as is shown in
Furthermore, pieces of material may be added to the sliding bars 36, front slope bars 38, and/or rear slope bars 40 of the sled members 32, 34 to reduce or increase the friction between the sleds 32, 34 and a surface. In addition, material may be placed under the sled members 32, 34 to allow for greatly flexibility of use of the training device 10. For example, a cloth material or other material may be attached to the sled member on the bottom side thereof to allow the training device 10 to be used on an otherwise damageable surface, such as a hardwood, parquet, tiled, or other indoor surface. The training device 10 could be used in a larger number of areas, and in a greater number of weather conditions, such as during inclement weather when a user is not able to use the device outside. Some examples of materials that can be used with the training device may include carpet, felt, blankets, cotton, silk or some combination thereof that can be secured around the portions of the bi-directional sleds 32, 34 to allow the sleds to be used on the indoor surfaces, while mitigating the damage to the indoor surfaces. The addition of the cloth materials will not substantially decrease the resistance of the sleds such that the effective of the training device 10 will still be maintained. The sleds 32, 34 could also be manipulated to allow for indoor or outdoor use. As mentioned, the sleds may take different forms to provide resistance to the movement of the barrel member 12. Therefore, different forms of the resistance devices could be used depending on the surface to which the device 10 is to be used, so as to provide minimal damage and high benefits from use of the training device, no matter the location or surface. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the cover 14 of the barrel 12 will provide or otherwise allow the barrel 12 to be used on said damageable surfaces as well.
While the training device 10 of the invention may be used in any number of ways, a few exemplary methods of use will be provided. For example, the training device 10 can be positioned such that the barrel device 12 is positioned ahead of the sled members 32, 34 with the sled members 32, 34 attached to the axle 22 of the barrel device 12. Weights 54 can be added to the sled members 32, 34 and/or barrel device 12 to increase the resistance of the training device 10 for some users. A user may be positioned between or behind the sled members 32, 34 and facing the barrel device 12 in an athletic position. Upon an action, the user explodes or otherwise moves towards the barrel device 12, and begins contacting the barrel device 12 with the user's hands to begin rolling the barrel device 12. The connection of the barrel device 12 to the weighted sled members 32, 34 will increase the resistance felt by the user in attempting to rotate the barrel device 12 to move the training device 10. The movement is continued for a said amount of time and/or distance, upon which the user stops. Continued repetitions of said exercise can continue to provide training and/or exercise for a user.
In addition, due to the bi-directional functionality of the sleds 32, 34, the device 10 does not need to be rotated to be reoriented in the opposite direction, and instead can simply be pushed in the opposite direction quickly and easily. This allows for greater efficiency in training or using the training device 10 of the present invention. Furthermore, the bi-directional functionality of the training device 10 can be used in a training exercise for a single user or multiple users. For example, a user may begin pushing and/or rolling the device 10 in a forward direction for a predetermined distance, upon reaching said distance, the user may quickly re-orient themselves on the opposite side of the barrel device 12 and begin moving the device back in the opposite or rear direction thereof. The continued back and forth directional movement of the user and training device 10 will provide additional training and/or exercise. Furthermore, multiple people can use the training device 10 such that one user will move the device in a forward direction for a certain time and/or distance, upon which another user will begin moving the training device 10 in the opposite direction. Such a situation will provide for a greater amount of training for multiple users, while reducing the amount of time for the training and/or exercise.
Furthermore, as mentioned, the strap 56 may be utilized with the training device 10 to provide for additional training and/or exercise. The strap 56 allows a user to pull the training device 10, as opposed to pushing the barrel member to roll the barrel device 12. The pushing and pulling of the device 12 will work different muscles of the user, such that the same training device will provide a number of exercises to work various muscle groups of a user, which may be needed for different sports. As will be understood, the training device 10 is not to be limited to the specific exercises and/or training techniques described, and can be used in generally any manner to provide for training, technique, and exercise for a user.
A training device has heretofore been shown and described. It should be appreciated that many variations may be made to the training device of the present invention, some of which have not been explicitly stated. The description of the training device has been shown for exemplary purposes, and contemplates many variations. For example, the size of the various components of the training device may be varied according to a specific training for different sports and/or exercises. For example, when the training device is used to train for football related activities, the device may be varied in size accordingly. The length of the barrel device may be increased to provide for multiple users using the device at a single time. This would mimic an offense or defensive line working together to move the training device. Furthermore, the size of the training device may be varied according to user skill and/or level. As the training device will provide training for good technique for a variety of sports, it may be beneficial to begin using the device at a young age. However, as a youth may be smaller in stature, the components of the training device may be shrunk or otherwise sized accordingly to allow the youth to be able to use the device in a proper manner. The size and thus, weight of the device can be increased as a user increases in age, size, and athletic ability, to accommodate the ever-changing abilities of a user. Other variations apparent to those skilled in the art are also to be included as part of the invention.
This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to provisional application Ser. No. 61/734,004, filed Dec. 6, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61734004 | Dec 2012 | US |
