Low-impact training ball

Abstract

A training ball having substantially the same size, and exterior construction and appearance as a regulation ball, but having a lighter weight than a regulation ball. The training ball is deformable upon contact with the fielder. The training ball includes an outer shell filled with a particulate material such as polypropylene beads, resulting in a ball having a lower coefficient of restitution than a regulation ball.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 564,124, filed Apr. 21, 2004, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] The present invention relates generally to a training device for baseball and softball players. The invention relates more particularly to a low-impact training ball of regulation size, for example regulation baseball size or regulation softball size, and having an exterior construction substantially identical to that of a regulation ball. The invention also relates to a training game developed using the low-impact training ball. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] The game of baseball has existed for more than one hundred years and is enjoyed by players and spectators of all ages. New players, and players of all skill levels are constantly seeking to improve their skills. Various practice drills and routines are carried...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] In example forms, the present invention is a training ball that is easier to catch than a regulation ball, and that produces less sensed impact when caught or otherwise contacted. In this manner, the present invention helps new players overcome fear of impact with a ball, builds confidence, and assists in the development of proper skills and technique. The present invention also allows new players and experienced players alike to hone their skills through realistic practice experiences, in fielding, batting and throwing.

[0009] The ball of the present invention also promotes fielding skill development and confidence building in a variety of users, due to its reduced coefficient of restitution, relative to regulation balls and other practice balls, which results in increased duration of ball contact with the fielder's glove. By remaining in contact with the fielder's glove for an additional increment of time, the fielder's reflexes can be honed to properly time squeezing of the ball within the glove pocket. And because fewer balls may be dropped, the user's confidence will be enhanced, possibly increasing a player's desire to practice further.

[0010] The present invention also provides new and improved training methods, utilizing a low-impact ball, and new and improved games played using such a ball. For example, use of the low-impact ball of the present invention enables play within a more confined area than practical using a regulation ball.

Problems solved by technology

One drawback to previously known practice methods is that the use of regulation balls during practice may actually hamper the development of proper form and technique, potentially reinforcing bad habits rather than teaching good ones.

This is especially so with younger and less experienced players who are most in need of skills development, but may also affect even the most experienced players.

The momentum and weight of a regulation ball can produce a considerable impact, resulting in pain or even injury if a ball is not properly fielded.

But practice drills using a regulation ball may simply reinforce the instinctive bad habits by repeatedly subjecting a player to impacts by the ball, before skills are sufficiently developed to properly field the ball on a consistent basis.

Thus, “practice” with a regulation ball may in some instances actually impair a player's fielding skills, or at least delay the player's development.

Batting practice using a regulation ball may also be less effective than desired, for similar reasons.

And even tee-ball players may receive negative feedback when the bat stings their hands after mis-hitting a ball, potentially slowing their development and resulting in less than optimal skills development.

However, the resilience of the materials these balls are constructed of can cause the ball to bounce out of a player's glove more quickly than a regulation ball, possibly leading to frustration and creating an unrealistic practice experience.

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