Training Platform with Attachable Accessories that Direct Ground Reaction Forces

Abstract

The training apparatus includes a semi-rigid platform with upper and lower mounting surfaces, and a first training accessory having a flat base, an attachment portion for mounting to either the upper or lower mounting surface, and a lobe portion extending outwardly. The first training accessory is positioned at a first target location on the platform to direct a ground reaction force opposite to a force applied by a trainee standing on the platform. This setup allows for targeted training by providing resistance in a specific direction to enhance the effectiveness of exercises and the trainee's balance and strength.

Claims

1. A training apparatus comprising: a. a platform that is semi-rigid, the platform comprising: i. an upper mounting surface; ii. a lower mounting surface; b. a first training accessory comprising: i. a flat base; ii. an attachment portion mounted to the flat base and structured to attach to one of the upper mounting surface and the lower mounting surface; iii. a lobe portion extending outwardly from the flat base; and c. wherein the first training accessory is mounted at a first target position on the platform to direct a ground reaction force in opposite direction of a force application vector directed by a trainee standing upon the platform.

2. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the upper mounting surface and the lower mounting surface further comprise: 1. a plurality of apertures spaced at regular intervals that define a plurality of target positions.

3. The training apparatus of claim 2, wherein the attachment portion is a peg structured to be removably received by one of the plurality of apertures.

4. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the platform further comprises: iv. a plurality of peripheral apertures; v. a plurality of primary apertures side-to-side offset from the plurality of peripheral apertures and corresponding to an average stance width of the trainee; and vi. a plurality of central apertures centrally disposed and side-to-side offset between the plurality of primary apertures.

5. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the platform is slanted from between 1 degree to 20 degrees with the first training accessory mounted upon the lower mounting surface.

6. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein a plurality of training accessories are mounted to the lower mounting surface to slant the platform front-to-back and side-to-side.

7. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lobe portion is deformable between 20% to 60% in any given dimension.

8. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lobe portion has a semi-spherical shape.

9. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lobe portion has an oblate semi-spherical shape.

10. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lobe portion is longitudinally elongated.

11. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lobe portion is multi-lobed having a plurality of lobes radially connected by arms to a central lobe.

12. The training apparatus of claim 1, wherein a curvature of the lobe portion defines directionality of the ground reaction force relative to a point of application made by the trainee upon the first training accessory.

13. A training method comprising the steps of: a. mounting a first training accessory to a platform that is rigid at a target position on at least one of an upper mounting surface of the platform and a lower mounting surface of the platform to define a force application vector upon a trainee standing upon the platform, wherein the first training accessory comprises: i. a flat base; ii. an attachment portion mounted to the flat base and structured to attach to one of the upper mounting surface and the lower mounting surface; iii. a lobe portion extending outwardly from the flat base; and b. directing, by the first training accessory, a ground reaction force in opposite direction of the force application vector directed by the trainee standing upon the platform.

14. The training method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of: c. mounting a second training accessory to the platform at a second target position on at least one of the upper mounting surface and the lower mounting surface; and d. directing a second ground reaction force in opposite direction of a second force application vector directed by the trainee standing upon the platform.

15. The training method of claim 13, further comprising the step of: c. directing, by a second training accessory, a second ground reaction force in opposite direction of a second force application vector directed upon by the platform supporting the trainee.

16. The training method of claim 13, wherein a curvature of the lobe portion defines directionality of the ground reaction force relative to a point of application made by the trainee upon the first training accessory.

17. The training method of claim 13, further comprising the step of: c. directing a magnitude of the force application vector relative to a firmness of the lobe portion of the first training accessory.

18. The training method of claim 13, further comprising the step of: c. slanting the platform with the first training accessory mounted at the target position on the lower mounting surface.

19. The training method of claim 13, wherein the force application vector directed by a ball of a lead foot of the trainee against the first training accessory creates a vertical ground reaction force.

20. The training method of claim 13, wherein the force application vector directed by an arch of a trail foot of the trainee against the first training accessory creates a lateral ground reaction force.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] Aspects are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0025] FIG. 1 is an upper side perspective view of a platform of the training apparatus

[0026] FIG. 2 is an upper side perspective view of a first training accessory.

[0027] FIG. 3 is an upper side perspective view of a second training accessory.

[0028] FIG. 4 is an upper side perspective view of a third training accessory.

[0029] FIG. 5 is an upper side perspective view of a fourth training accessory.

[0030] FIG. 6 is an upper side perspective view of a fifth training accessory.

[0031] FIG. 7 is an upper side perspective view of a plurality of training accessories disassembled from the platform.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a lower side perspective view of the plurality of training accessories disassembled from the platform.

[0033] FIG. 9 is an upper side perspective view of the plurality of training accessories assembled onto the platform.

[0034] FIG. 10 is an upper back perspective view of the training apparatus being utilized by the trainee.

[0035] FIG. 11 is an upper side perspective view of a training apparatus being utilized by a trainee.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The golf training apparatus includes a semi-rigid platform with upper and lower mounting surfaces. A plurality of training accessories may removably mount with either the upper or lower mounting surfaces. The training accessories apply counterforces to a trainee's movements, helping the trainee to develop proper weight transfer and body rotation. A training accessory has a flat base, an attachment portion for mounting, and a lobe portion extending outwardly opposite the attachment portion. The attachment portion may be a peg structured to be removably received by the upper and lower mounting surfaces at a plurality of target locations. The plurality of target locations may be defined by a plurality of apertures spaced at regular intervals in the upper and lower mounting surfaces. The training accessory may mount at a target location on the upper mounting surface to direct a ground reaction force in the opposite direction of a force vector applied by a trainee standing on the platform. The training accessory may mount at a target location on the lower mounting surface to direct a force vector applied by a trainee standing on the platform in the opposite direction of a ground reaction force so that the platform slants front-to-back and/or end-to-end. The magnitude and directionality of the force vector applied may be based on the firmness and curvature, respectively, of the lobe portion of the training accessory. The structural configuration of the training apparatus enhances the effectiveness of utilizing ground reaction forces to target specific training techniques so that the trainee receives kinesthetic feedback on swing mechanics and balance.

[0037] Now referring to the figures, a top perspective view of an example of a platform 100 of the training apparatus 1000 is shown in FIG. 1. Platform 100 may be an elongated flat, thin or thick board of a semi-rigid material, such as wood, metal, rubber, plastic, or a composite of such materials, separate or blended, to ensure a stable and stiff training platform having some bend for training feedback when used by a trainee. In one example, the semi-rigid material composing platform 100 is acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) which is a common thermoplastic polymer that may be formed by injection molding and extrusion applications. In another example, platform 100 is made from a rubberized plastic polymer that is hardened, which provides increased traction and rigidity for trainee standing upon platform 100.

[0038] Engineering plastics, like ABS material, allow for low production costs and efficient machining by manufacturers. The ease of manufacture of platform 100 by such applications may be completed without hindering properties, such as the impact resistance, structural stiffness, performance strength and durability, or the ability to coat or ingrain texture on mounting surfaces of platform 100.

[0039] Platform 100 has a first end 112 and a second end 114 that may be adjacent and parallel. A first edge 116 and a second edge 118 extend along a length of the platform 100 between the first end 112 and the second end 114. The first edge 116 and second edge 118 may be adjacent and parallel to form a generally rectangular shape with the perpendicular ends. Platform 100 has generally square corners at the intersections of the edges and ends. Platform 100 may have other shapes, such as an oval that is elongate, circle, hexagon, triangle, or other shape. The first edge 116 and second edge 118, or the first end 112 and second end 114, or a combination of the edges and ends, may be reinforced to prevent buckling or twisting of platform 100.

[0040] Platform 100 may be made from a single, integral board of semi-rigid material or be composed of multiple layers of semi-rigid material(s) fastened together by screws, brackets, VELCRO, tongue and groove joints, glue, and other adhesives or means for fastening. Platform 100, as shown in FIG. 1, has a first platform layer 120 and a second platform layer 130. Having multiple platform layers may contribute to the overall rigidity of platform 100. However, platform 100 may allow for slight flexion when utilized during training.

[0041] Dimensions, such as width, length, and thickness of platform 100 may be based on a size of the trainee to be trained. For example, for an adult trainee, platform 100 may be based on average standing stance so that platform 100 has a widthfront-to-backof approx. 20 inches and a lengthend-to-endof approximately 30 inches.

[0042] In cases where a trainee is to stand on platform 100, mounting surfaces may be ingrained with an anti-slip texture(s) or sprayed with an anti-slip coating(s) to prevent slippage on or off platform 100 by a trainee. Mounting surfaces may utilize any anti-slip patterns or grip textures utilized for slip resistance on common surfaces of today.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, an upper side 124 of platform 100 has an upper mounting surface 122. Upper mounting surface 122 may be an exteriorly exposed surface of the first platform layer 120. Upper mounting surface 122 may comprise anti-slip features. A lower side 134 has a lower mounting surface 132 (not shown in FIG. 1). Lower mounting surface 132 may be an exteriorly exposed surface of the second platform layer 130. Lower mounting surface 132 may also comprise anti-slip features.

[0044] Training apparatus 1000 (shown assembled in FIG. 9) utilizes various configurations of training accessories. Training accessories disposed on the mounting surfaces of platform 100 direct ground reaction forces to cause specific physical resistances upon the trainee during application of training protocols. The design of training apparatus 1000 allows for removable adjustment (shown disassembled in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8) of training accessories. Training accessories may be repositioned at specified target positions on mounting surfaces of platform 100 to accommodate different exercises that are engaged during various training protocols.

[0045] In some cases, training accessories are mounted on platform 100 in specified target positions to aid exercises. Training accessories include lobe portion(s) extending outwardly at different heights from a flat base to create varying levels of resistance to the trainee. Other structures may extend outwardly from the flat base, opposite the lobe portion(s), to mount training accessories in fixed positions on platform 100. Different configurations of training accessories on platform 100 challenge the trainee's balance, stability, and strength by directing ground reaction forces in specific directions to engage different muscle groups.

[0046] Each of the training accessories, together or individually may have a semi-spherical lobe portion that extends outwardly from a flat base. The semi-spherical lobe portion is designed to particularly direct a ground reaction force in opposite direction to a force application vector resulting from a trainee's action force being applied at a point of application upon the semi-spherical lobe portion. The specific curvature of the semi-spherical lobe portion defines the directionality of the ground reaction force relative to the point of application made by the trainee upon the training accessory. The semi-spherical lobe portion may be structured to have any color, shape, size, height, length, and diameter so that dimensions of the training accessory adequately direct ground reaction forces in accordance with specific training applications.

[0047] The semi-spherical lobe portion, a portion of the training accessory, or the entire training accessory may be made from higher resilient, low to medium compression set resistance materials. The higher resilient material may be a high-density, low porous, low pliable, firm foam, sponge, rubber, plastic, silicone, or a composite of such materials, separate or blended, to provide support and a given amount of resistance with pressure applied to semi-spherical lobe portion. The given amount of resistance may be expressed as a percentage of firmness, or expressed inversely as a percentage of compressibility (deformability). Assigning percentages of firmness or deformability to training accessories allows for selection of the amount of resistance and feedback to trainee.

[0048] Resistance from the semi-spherical lobe portion against applications of force made by a trainee provides feedback on ground reaction forces back to the trainee. Increased resistance provides greater feedback on ground reaction forces. Increased deformability provides greater movement against resistance of the training accessory. A blended combination of these materials or other specialty resilient materials having characteristics of medium to low to non-sponginess may be utilized to provide specific resistances for feedback.

[0049] Closed cell foam materials having high-density, such as foams from the family of polymers comprising polyethylene, polyurethane, silicone, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) may be utilized. Elastomers, like ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) and Neoprene sponge having closed cells may be utilized. Elastomers like expanded closed cell silicone sponge materials made from gum-based polydimethylsiloxane (PMDS) may be utilized. Elastomers outside of the foam and sponge categories, like butyl rubber, cork, and cork rubber may be utilized. In one example, the material composing the semi-spherical lobe portion may be food grade silicone, such as material commonly used in spatulas. Injection molding and extrusion applications may be utilized to form pliable and durable training accessories in high volumes, such as from liquid silicone rubber. Engineering higher resilient materials, such as silicone, allows for low production costs and efficient manufacturing of training accessories. The ease of manufacture of training accessories by such processes may be completed without hindering properties, such as firmness, resistance performance, and durability.

[0050] Now referring to FIG. 2, a top perspective view of a training accessory 200 is shown. The training accessory 200 is shown with a lobe portion 220. Lobe portion 220 may be colored black for identification purposes. The lobe portion 220 may have a semi-spherical body 210 shaped like an oval that is elongated along a central longitudinal axis 225 of the training accessory 200. The length of the training accessory 200 may be approx. 20 inches. The semi-spherical body 210 may have a length that is between approximately 10 inches to 20 inches. The length of the semi-spherical body 210 may be approx. 15 inches. In one example, the semi-spherical body 210 has a length of 18 inches. The semi-spherical body 210 extends upwardly from a flat base 230 at a lobe height 205. The semi-spherical body 210 may have a lobe height 205 that is between approximately 1 inch to 3 inches. The lobe height 205 of the semi-spherical body 210 may be approx. 2 inches. In one example, the semi-spherical body 210 has a lobe height 205 of 2 inches.

[0051] An upper side 224 of the semi-spherical body 210 may have flat exterior surface 222. The flat exterior surface 222 is shown disposed opposite and parallel with the flat base 230 disposed on a lower side 234 of the semi-spherical body 210. A lateral side 226 of the semi-spherical body 210 may have a curved exterior surface. The upper side 224 and lateral side 226 may define directionality of a ground reaction force in the opposite direction of a force application vector applied relative to a point of application made by the trainee upon the lobe portion 220 of the training accessory 200. The lobe portion 220, which comprises semi-spherical body 210, may be deformable (i.e. compressed) in any given dimension relative to the trainee's point of application upon training accessory 200.

[0052] The lobe portion 220 may have a factor of firmness or compression that is based on the type of material selected or an internal structure of the semi-spherical body 210. The lobe portion 220 may be deformable between approximately 20% to 60% in any given dimension. The deformability of lobe portion 220 may be further between approximately 30% to 50%. The lobe portion 220 may be inwardly deformable by about 40% from an uncompressed state. In one example, the semi-spherical body 210 has a firmness factor of 60%.

[0053] Now referring to FIG. 3, a top perspective view of a training accessory 300 is shown. The training accessory 300 is shown with a lobe portion 320. Lobe portion 320 may be colored green for identification purposes. Lobe portion 320 may have a semi-spherical body 310 shaped like a circular hemisphere. The semi-spherical body 310 of lobe portion 320 extends upwardly from a flat base 330 at a lobe height 305. The semi-spherical body 310 may have a lobe height 305 that is between 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches. The lobe height 305 of the semi-spherical body 310 may be approx. 1 inch. In one example, the semi-spherical body 310 has a lobe height 305 of 0.8 inches. The semi-spherical body 310 may have a diameter of between approximately 2 inches to 4 inches. The diameter of the semi-spherical body 310 may be approx. 3 inches. In one, the semi-spherical body 310 has a diameter of 3 inches.

[0054] An upper side 324 of the semi-spherical body 310 may be oblate, having a flat exterior surface 322. The flat exterior surface 322 is shown disposed opposite and parallel with the flat base 330 disposed on a lower side 334 of the semi-spherical body 310. A lateral side 326 of the semi-spherical body 310 may have a curved exterior surface. The upper side 324 and the lateral side 326 may define directionality of a ground reaction force in the opposite direction of a force application vector applied relative to a point of application made by the trainee upon the lobe portion 320 of the training accessory 300.

[0055] The lobe portion 320 may have a factor of firmness or compression that is based on the type of material selected or an internal structure of the semi-spherical body 310. The lobe portion 320 may be deformable between approximately 55% to 95% in any given dimension. The deformability of lobe portion 320 may be further between approximately 65% to 85%. The lobe portion 320 may be inwardly deformable by about 75% from an uncompressed state. In one example, the semi-spherical body 310 has a firmness factor of 25%.

[0056] Now referring to FIG. 4, a top perspective view of a training accessory 400 is shown. Training accessory 400 is shown with a lobe portion 450. Lobe portion 450 may be colored red for identification purposes. Lobe portion 450 has a central semi-spherical body 420. The central semi-spherical body 420 of lobe portion 450 extends upwardly from the flat base 455 with a first lobe height 407. The central semi-spherical body 420 may have a first lobe height 407 that is between approximately 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches. The first lobe height 407 of the central semi-spherical body 420 may be approx. 1 inch. In one example, the central semi-spherical body 420 has a first lobe height 407 of 1.2 inches. In another example, the central semi-spherical body 420 has a first lobe height 407 of 0.6 inches. In another example, the central semi-spherical body 420 has a first lobe height 407 of 0.8 inches.

[0057] Lobe portion 450 may be multi-lobed. Lobe portion 450 may be hub-and-spoke shaped with a plurality of arms that radiate outwards from the central semi-spherical body 420. A plurality of peripheral lobes may be radially connected by the plurality of arms to the central semi-spherical body 420. The plurality of arms may radiate outwards from the central semi-spherical body 420 at an angle () of between approximately 45 to 135. In one example, six arms radiate outwards about the central semi-spherical body 420 at an angle () of 60. In another example, four arms radiate outwards about the central semi-spherical body 420 at an angle () of 90. In another example, three arms radiate outwards about the central semi-spherical body 420 at an angle () of 120.

[0058] Central semi-spherical body 420 is shown in FIG. 4 with three arms that radiate outwards at an angle () of 120 from the central semi-spherical body 420. A first arm 415 radiates outwardly and connects with a first peripheral semi-spherical body 410. A second arm 435 radiates outwardly and connects with a second peripheral semi-spherical body 430. A third arm 445 radiates outwardly and connects with a third peripheral semi-spherical body 440. The first arm 415, second arm 435, and third arm 445 may each, together or individually, have a concave surface that decreases in taper laterally outwards perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis 425 that runs between the central semi-spherical body 420 and a peripheral semi-spherical body.

[0059] The first peripheral semi-spherical body 410 of lobe portion 450 extends upwardly from the flat base 455 with a second lobe height 405, as shown in FIG. 4. The second lobe height 405 may be less than the first lobe height 407 of the central semi-spherical body 420, and vice versa. Each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies may have a second lobe height 405 that is between approximately 0.2 inch to 1.5 inches. The second lobe height 405 of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies may be approx. 0.5 inch. In one example, each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies has a second lobe height 405 of 0.4 inches. In another example, each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies has a second lobe height 405 of 0.8 inches. In another example, each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies has a second lobe height 405 of 0.6 inches. Alternatively, each of the semi-spherical bodies of lobe portion 450 may each, together or individually, have a different lobe height.

[0060] Each of the semi-spherical bodies of the training accessory 400 may be shaped like a circular hemisphere. Each of the semi-spherical bodies may have a diameter of between approximately 1 inch to 3 inches. The diameter of each of the semi-spherical bodies may be approx. 2 inches. In one example, the central semi-spherical body 420 has a diameter of approx. 2.5 inches and each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies have a diameter of approx. 1.5 inches. In another example, the central semi-spherical body 420 has a diameter of approx. 1.5 inches and each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies have a diameter of approx. 2.5 inches. In one example, each of the semi-spherical bodies has a diameter of 2 inches. Alternatively, each of the semi-spherical bodies of lobe portion 450 may each, together or individually, have a different diameter.

[0061] Upper sides of each of the semi-spherical bodies may be oblate, having flat exterior surfaces 412, 422, 432, 442. The flat exterior surfaces 412, 422, 432, 442 are shown disposed opposite and parallel with the flat base 455 disposed on a lower side 434 of the training accessory 400. Lateral sides of each of the semi-spherical bodies may have a curved exterior surface. Upper and lateral sides may define directionality of a ground reaction force(s) in the opposite direction of a force application vector(s) applied relative to a point of application(s) made by the trainee upon the lobe portion 450 of the training accessory 400.

[0062] The lobe portion 450 may have a factor of firmness or compression that is based on the type of material selected or an internal structure of each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies 410, 430, 440. The lobe portion 450 may be deformable between approximately 45% to 85% in any given dimension. The deformability of lobe portion 450 may be further between approximately 55% to 75%. The lobe portion 450 may be inwardly deformable by about 65% from an uncompressed state. In one example, each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies 410, 420, 430, 440 has a firmness factor of 35%. Alternatively, each of the peripheral semi-spherical bodies, together or individually, may have a different factor of firmness.

[0063] In one example, central semi-spherical body 420 has a firmness factor of 45%, while the first peripheral semi-spherical body 410, second peripheral semi-spherical body 430, and third peripheral semi-spherical body 440 have a firmness factor of 35%. In another example, central semi-spherical body 420 has a firmness factor of 35%, while the first peripheral semi-spherical body 410, second peripheral semi-spherical body 430, and third peripheral semi-spherical body 440 have a firmness factor of 45%.

[0064] Now referring to FIG. 5, a top perspective view of a training accessory 500 is shown. The training accessory 500 is shown with a lobe portion 520. Lobe portion 520 may be colored gray for identification purposes. Lobe portion 520 may have a semi-spherical body 510 shaped like an oval. The semi-spherical body 510 of lobe portion 520 extends upwardly from a flat base 530 at a lobe height 505. The semi-spherical body 510 may have a lobe height 505 that is between 0.5 inch to 2 inches. The lobe height 505 of the semi-spherical body 510 may be approx. 1 inch. In one example, the semi-spherical body 510 has a lobe height 505 of 1.25 inches. The semi-spherical body 510 may have a diameter of between approximately 2 inches to 6 inches. The diameter of the semi-spherical body 510 may be approx. 4 inches. In one example, the semi-spherical body 510 has a diameter in width of 3.5 inches and a diameter in length of 5 inches.

[0065] An upper side 524 of the semi-spherical body 510 may be oblate, having a flat exterior surface 522. The flat exterior surface 522 is shown disposed opposite and parallel with the flat base 530 disposed on a lower side 534 of the semi-spherical body 510. A lateral side 526 of the semi-spherical body 510 may have a curved exterior surface. The upper side 524 and the lateral side 526 may define directionality of a ground reaction force in the opposite direction of a force application vector applied relative to a point of application made by the trainee upon the lobe portion 520 of the training accessory 500.

[0066] The lobe portion 520 may have a factor of firmness or compression that is based on the type of material selected or an internal structure of the semi-spherical body 210. The lobe portion 220 may be deformable between approximately 25% to 65% in any given dimension. The deformability of lobe portion 220 may be further between approximately 35% to 55%. The lobe portion 220 may be inwardly deformable by about 45% from an uncompressed state. In one example, the semi-spherical body 210 has a firmness factor of 55%.

[0067] Now referring to FIG. 6, a top perspective view of a training accessory 600 is shown. Training accessory 600 may have a cylindrical body 610. Cylindrical body 610 may be colored purple for identification purposes. The cylindrical body 610 is shown with a first end 620 and a second end 630. The cylindrical body 610 may have a height 605 that is between 0.5 inch to 3 inches. The height 605 of the cylindrical body 610 may be further between approx. 1 inch to 2 inches. In one example, the cylindrical body 610 has a height 605 of 1.5 inches. The cylindrical body 610 may have a diameter of between approximately 0.25 inch to 2 inches. The diameter of the cylindrical body 610 may be approx. 1 inch. In one example, the cylindrical body 610 has a diameter 0.5 inch.

[0068] An upper end 624 of the cylindrical body 610 may be oblate, having a flat exterior surface 622. The flat exterior surface 622 may be disposed opposite and parallel with the base disposed on a lower side 634 of the cylindrical body 610. A lateral side 626 of the cylindrical body 610 has a curved exterior surface. Cylindrical body 610 may serve as markers to guide positioning of a trainee's feet in a particular stance, represent ball or club placement, or to direct ground reaction forces.

[0069] Training accessory 600 may have a factor of firmness or compression that is based on the type of material selected or an internal structure of the cylindrical body 610. Training accessory 600 may be deformable between approximately 10% to 50% in any given dimension. The deformability of lobe portion 320 may be further between approximately 20% to 40%. The lobe portion 320 may be inwardly deformable by about 30% from an uncompressed state. In one example, the semi-spherical body 310 has a firmness factor of 70%.

[0070] Now referring to FIG. 7, an exploded, top-down perspective view of the training apparatus 1000 with a plurality of training accessories disassembled from platform 100 is shown. Platform is shown with lettering along the first end 112 and numbering along the first edge 116. The lettering and numbering may be incorporated into platform 100 by being etched, notched, stamped, affixed, or otherwise fastened to the mounting surfaces of platform 100. The lettering and numbering may assist assignment of training accessories into target positions based on training protocols selected for a training session.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 7, the plurality of apertures 700 are shown disposed through both the first platform layer 120 and second platform layer 130 so that the plurality of training accessories may be mounted on either the upper mounting surface 122, lower mounting surface 132, or both mounting surfaces. Platform 100 may be drilled with the plurality of apertures 700 across the width and length of platform 100 for easy mounting and alignment of the plurality of training accessories to platform 100. The plurality of apertures 700 may define a target coordinate grid for mounting the plurality of training accessories at a plurality of target positions.

[0072] The distance between individual apertures within a grid section of the target coordinate grid may be between approximately 0.5 inch to 3 inches. In one example, the distance between individual apertures within a grid section may be between approximately 1 inch to 2 inches. In a one example, the distance between individual apertures within a grid section is approximately 1.5 inches. Individual apertures may have a diameter of between approximately 0.25 inch to 2 inches to cooperatively engage with individual attachment portions of a training accessory. The diameter of an aperture may be approx. 1 inch. In one example, each of the apertures has a diameter of approx. 0.5 inch to receive and retain attachment portion of the training accessories by friction fit.

[0073] The target coordinate grid may be divided into grid sections so that the plurality of apertures 700 are separated into rows or columns. Additionally, separations between grid sections, where no apertures exist, may enhance the overall rigidity to platform 100. In the example shown, the plurality of apertures 700 are divided into columns having sections of a plurality of peripheral apertures 702, a plurality of primary apertures 704, and a plurality of central apertures 706. The columns of apertures are aligned perpendicular to the length of platform 100.

[0074] The plurality of peripheral apertures 702 are shown divided into two sets. The first set of peripheral apertures, which comprises two columns of apertures, is disposed on the first end 112 of platform 100. The second set of peripheral apertures, which comprises two columns of apertures, is disposed on the second end 114 of platform 100. The first and second sets of peripheral apertures on the upper mounting surface 122 may correspond to target positions for positioning training accessories within an above average stance width of a trainee.

[0075] The plurality of primary apertures 704 are shown divided into two sets. The first set of primary apertures, which comprises four columns of apertures, is disposed offset, side-to-side, from the first set of peripheral apertures on the first end 112 of platform 100. The second set of peripheral apertures, which comprises four columns of primary apertures, is disposed offset, side-to-side, from the second set of peripheral apertures on the second end 114 of platform 100. The first and second sets of primary apertures on the upper mounting surface 122 may correspond to target positions for positioning training accessories within an average stance width of a trainee. Also, having four columns instead of two columns increases the width for mounting attachments to accommodate an average foot width of a trainee.

[0076] The plurality of central apertures 706 are disposed centrally between and offset, side-to-side, by the first and second sets of the primary apertures. The plurality of central apertures 706 on the upper mounting surface 122 may correspond to target positions for positioning training accessories to guide placement of a ball or club.

[0077] Now referring to FIG. 8, each of the plurality of training accessories are structured with an attachment portion(s) to secure the training accessory to platform 100. Attachment portion(s) may be mounted to the flat base of each training accessory. Attachment portion(s) may be structured to attach to one of the upper mounting surface 122 and the lower mounting surface 132, or both mounting surfaces, to secure the training accessory against platform 100. The attachment portion(s) may be a peg structured to be removably received by one of the plurality of apertures 700. The attachment portion may be an integral part of the semi-spherical body, such as may be manufactured from injection molding. The attachment portion may have a diameter of between approximately 0.25 inch to 2 inches to cooperatively engage with individual apertures disposed in platform 100. The diameter of an attachment portion may be approx. 1 inch. In one example, the attachment portion has a diameter of approx. 0.5 inch to be insertable into an aperture and be retained within the aperture by friction fit.

[0078] Alternatively, other attachment types might be utilized for attachment portion(s) of a training accessory. Attachment portion(s) may comprise strips of hook-and-loop fasteners (i.e. VELCRO), buttons, adhesives, zippers, clasps, adhesives, and/or other fastener solutions that allow for removable attachment of the training accessory. The attachment portion(s) may be structured for easy mounting and removal of the training accessory with platform 100. In the alternative, when utilizing other attachment types, a plurality of attachments may be disposed on platform 100 in place of the plurality of apertures 700 and would be compatible with the attachment portions. The plurality of attachments may comprise any number of securements, such as screws, brackets, VELCRO, tongue and groove joints, glue, and other adhesives or fastening means. Such design of the training apparatus 1000 allows trainees to easily remove and position training accessories across platform 100 at varied target positions on the target coordinate grid to perform different exercises and activate different muscle groups.

[0079] As shown in the figures, the plurality of apertures 700 are disposed through platform 100 from the upper mounting surface 122 to the lower mounting surface 132. The plurality of apertures 700 accommodate receipt of attachment portions extending outward from flat bases, opposite the lobe portions, of the training accessories. Dimensions of the training accessory may be selected in relation to how the trainee's stance will be affected. A training accessory may be mounted at a target position on the upper mounting surface 122 of platform 100 to affect the trainee's stance when in contact with the trainee's feet on the upper side 124.

[0080] For example, now referring to FIG. 9, training accessory 200 may be mounted to platform 100 at a first target position so that attachment portions 242, 244, and 246 of training accessory 200 are received by a plurality of primary apertures 704 and a central aperture at target coordinates I5, I10, and I8, respectively. Training accessory 300 may be mounted to platform 100 at a second target position so that attachment portion 344 of training accessory 300 is received by a central aperture at target coordinate A8. Training accessory 400 may be mounted to platform 100 at a third target position so that attachment portion 444 of training accessory 400 is received by a peripheral aperture at target coordinate C14. Training accessory 400 may spin freely upon attachment portion 444 for placement of peripheral lobes in different directions on platform 100. Training accessory 500 may be mounted to platform 100 at a fourth target position so that attachment portions 542 and 544 of training accessory 500 are received by a plurality of primary apertures 704 at target coordinates C5 and CD, respectively. Training accessory 600 may be mounted to platform 100 at a fifth target position so that attachment portion 640 of training accessory 600 is received by a peripheral aperture at target coordinate K2. Receiving attachment portions into aperture(s) results in flat base 230, 330, 455, 530 of training accessory 200, 300, 400, 500 to come into contact with and be supported by the upper mounting surface 122. Many varied positions and combinations in placement of training accessories can be realized with training apparatus 1000.

[0081] Training apparatus 1000 helps trainees position various training accessories on the upper side 124 of platform 100 according to various training protocols to learn and use ground reaction forces kinesthetically. The magnitude and directionality of a ground reaction force in the opposite direction of a force application vector directed by a trainee may be based, at least partially, on the firmness and curvature of the lobe portion of the training accessory selected. The magnitude of the force application vector, and thus the ground reaction force in the opposite direction, may be relative to a firmness of the lobe portion of the training accessory. A curvature of the lobe portion may define the directionality of the ground reaction force relative to a point of application of the force application vector directed by the trainee upon the exterior surface of the training accessory. In the succeeding example, a first training accessory directs a first ground reaction force in the opposite direction of a first force application vector directed by a trainee standing on the platform. A second training accessory directs a second ground reaction force in the opposite direction of a second force application vector directed by the trainee standing on the platform.

[0082] Now referring to FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, a training apparatus 1000 is shown being utilized by a trainee 110 with a golf club 150 (both shown in phantom by dashed lines) that is left-handed. Placement of trainee's feet are guided by a plurality of accessory markers. Training accessory 600C may be mounted to platform 100 so that attachment portion of training accessory 600C is received by a primary aperture at target coordinate B13. Training accessory 600E may be mounted to platform 100 so that attachment portion of training accessory 600E is received by a primary aperture at target coordinate G13. Positioning of training accessory 600C and training accessory 600E may mark placement for a right foot 180 of trainee 110. Training accessory 600A may be mounted to platform 100 so that attachment portion of training accessory 600A is received by a primary aperture at target coordinate B3. Training accessory 600D may be mounted to platform 100 so that attachment portion of training accessory 600D is received by a primary aperture at target coordinate G3. Positioning of training accessory 600A and training accessory 600D may mark placement for a left foot 160 of trainee 110. Training accessory 600B may be mounted to platform 100 so that attachment portion of training accessory 600B is received by a central aperture at target coordinate A8. Training accessory 600B may mark placement for golf club 150.

[0083] Trainee 110 is depicted in a snapshot of time during the kinetic sequence of a golf swing where the golf club 150 has reached its maximum point of downswing. Training accessory 300 is mounted to platform 100 at a first target position on platform 100 so that attachment portion 344 of training accessory 300 is received by a primary aperture at target coordinate D13. At the first target position, trainee 110 standing on platform 100 is directing a first action forceshown as force application vector 1020upon training accessory 300. Specifically, force application vector 1020 is being directed vertically downward by ball of right foot 180 on the lead leg 140 against training accessory 300. The point of application of force application vector 1020 is upon the flat exterior surface 322 on upper side 324 of training accessory 300. A ground reaction force 1010 is created in the opposite direction of force application vector 1020 by trainee 110 standing upon training accessory 300.

[0084] Training accessory 500 may be mounted to platform 100 at a second target position so that attachment portions 542 and 544 of training accessory 500 are received by a plurality of primary apertures 704 at target coordinates D4 and E4, respectively. At the second target position, trainee 110 standing on platform 100 is directing a second action forceshown as force application vector 1040upon training accessory 500. Specifically, force application vector 1040 is being directed laterally inward by an arch of left foot 160 on the trail leg 125 against training accessory 500. The point of application of force application vector 1040 is upon the curved exterior surface on lateral side 526 of training accessory 300. A ground reaction force 1030 is created in the opposite direction of force application vector 1040 by trainee 110 standing upon platform 100.

[0085] Training apparatus 1000 also functions to train balance and stability with training accessories placed on the lower side 134 of platform 100. The duality of function, combined with specific shapes of the training accessories creates a comprehensive training apparatus for trainees. Separately or in addition with the preceding example, different training accessories may be selected and utilized on the lower side 134 to affect a degree of slant of platform 100. A training accessory, or a plurality of training accessories, selected may be based on the number of degrees platform 100 is to be slanted from side-to-side (i.e. first end 112 to second end 114, second end 114 to first end 112), front-to-back (i.e. first edge 116 to second edge 118), back-to-front (i.e. second edge 118 to first edge 116), or a combination thereof.

[0086] Training protocols may be designed to train balance, stability, and stretching with training apparatus 1000. Trainee may stand upon platform 100 with both feet on either side of center or with one foot directly in the center to affect stability and balance of trainee to train ankle, knee, and hip alignment. For example, a plurality of training accessories 300 may be mounted to the plurality of central apertures 706 disposed in lower mounting surface 132 down the center from first edge 116 to second edge 118 of platform 100. In one training protocol example, a trainee may stand with both feet on either side of plurality of central apertures 706 on upper side 124 of platform 100 and attempt to keep first end 112 and second end 114 of the ground. In another training protocol example, trainee may stand with both feet on either side of plurality of central apertures 706 on upper side 124 of platform 100 and obtain feedback on the timing of pressure shift from a trail leg to a lead leg during a swing. In another training protocol example, a single training accessory 300 may be mounted on the lower mounting surface 132 at a central target position (target coordinate F8) on the lower side 134 so that a trainee standing on the upper side 124 may cause platform 100 to slant about the centrally located training accessory in any direction of 360 of rotation.

[0087] An individual training accessory, or a plurality of training accessories, mounted to lower mounting surface 132 may slant platform 100 at varied degrees front-to-back, back-to-front, side-to-side, and corner-to-corner based on positioning and dimensions of training accessory(s). Platform 100 may be slanted from between 1 to 20 in any direction by a training accessory, or a plurality of training accessories, mounted upon the lower mounting surface 132. The slant of platform 100 may be further between 2 to 18, between 4 to 20, between 6 to 20, between 8 to 20, between 10 to 20, between 10 to 18, between 8 to 16, between 6 to 14, between 4 to 12, between 2 to 10, between 4 to 16, between 6 to 12, between 8 to 10, between 8 to 18, between 6 to 16, between 4 to 14, or between 2 to 12.

[0088] A training accessory may be mounted at a target position on the lower mounting surface 132 of the lower side 134 of platform 100 to slant the platform 100 when in contact with the ground. A training accessory may be mounted to platform 100 at a target position on the lower mounting surface 132 so that attachment portion(s) of the training accessory is received by an aperture at a specified target coordinate. Receiving the attachment portion(s) into the aperture(s) results in a flat base of the training accessory to come into contact with the lower mounting surface 132 to support platform 100.

[0089] For example, referring now to FIG. 10, training accessory 200 may be mounted to platform 100 at a sixth target position so that attachment portions 242, 244, and 246 of training accessory 200 are received by a plurality of peripheral apertures 702 at target coordinates C14, F14, and I14, respectively. In this first slanted configuration, training accessory 200 slants platform 100 from side-to-side so that the second end 114 is raised above first end 112. The angle () by which platform 100 is slanted may be approximately 5 degrees. In another example, referring now to FIG. 11, training accessory 200 may be mounted to platform 100 at a seventh target position so that attachment portions 242, 244, and 246 of training accessory 200 are received by a plurality of primary apertures 704 and a central aperture at target coordinates J3, J6, and J8, respectively. In this second slanted configuration, training accessory 200 slants platform 100 from back-to-front (anterior downhill) so that second edge 118 is raised above first edge 116. The angle () by which platform 100 is slanted may be approximately 10 degrees.

[0090] Training apparatus 1000 has been designed to focus on ground reaction forces and force application vectors to enhance the effectiveness of physical training. Training apparatus 1000 may be utilized in tandem with a force plate system. Based on analysis of force plate results, training accessories may be placed at appropriate target positions on platform 100 to train specific deficiencies seen. Strategic placement of training accessories on platform 100 directs ground reaction forces in opposition to force application vectors applied by a trainee. Trainees that utilize training apparatus 1000 can engage the trainee in multiple and varied training positions to train specific muscle groups more effectively and efficiently. Training apparatus 1000 provides a comprehensive solution that combines the features described above to increase the trainee's ability to sense the affects different ground reaction forces have on their body's mobility, stability, flexibility, coordination, balance, counterbalance, stance and swing. Neural pathways will be established, and dynamic balance strengthened as the trainee practices with the training apparatus 1000.

[0091] It is understood that the invention is not confined to the particular construction and arrangement of parts herein described. That although the drawings and specification set forth a preferred embodiment, and although specific terms are employed, they are used in a description sense only and embody all such forms as come within the scope of the following claims.

[0092] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, are possible from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0093] For the convenience of the reader, the above description has focused on a representative sample of all possible embodiments, a sample that teaches the principles of the invention and conveys the best mode contemplated for carrying it out. Throughout this application and its associated file history, when the term invention is used, it refers to the entire collection of ideas and principles described; in contrast, the formal definition of the exclusive protected property right is set forth in the claims, which exclusively control. The description has not attempted to exhaustively enumerate all possible variations. Other undescribed variations or modifications may be possible. Where multiple alternative embodiments are described, in many cases it will be possible to combine elements of different embodiments, or to combine elements of the embodiments described here with other modifications or variations that are not expressly described. A list of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, nor that any or all of the items are comprehensive of any category, unless expressly specified otherwise. In many cases, one feature or group of features may be used separately from the entire apparatus or methods described. Many of those undescribed variations, modifications and variations are within the literal scope of the following claims, and others are equivalent.