Exercise training apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to an exercise training apparatus and more specifically to a martial arts / boxing training apparatus which overcomes the problems associated with existing devices in that it provides the user with the ability to hone in on skills such as speed, power, accuracy and blocking, and also simulate the unpredictable nature of a real-life sparring partner The apparatus includes a base plate for mounting the apparatus to a surface, a support member, and one or more padded balls that are adapted to move about the support member through connecting arms whose height is adjustable. In one form of the invention, the arms are rigid structures which rotate in a horizontal plane about the support member whereby the length of each arm is adjustable. This embodiment is especially useful when a user wishes to hone in on a particular skill which does not require the element of surprise. In a further form of the invention, the support member includes a flexible arm mounted thereto which is not only capable of rotational movement in a single plane, but is also capable of tiltable and pivotable motion relative to the support member which adds a further dimension to the training apparatus. This embodiment is especially useful when the unpredictable nature of a real-life sparring partner is required.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an exercise training apparatus and in particular, to an apparatus for use in the development of skills such as speed, accuracy and blocking in various full-contact sports such as boxing and martial arts. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Boxing, martial arts and other full-contact sports are possibly the most gruelling of any other physical exercise in that they require the sportsman participating to be at peak physical fitness. For example, in the sport of boxing, speed is required so that a fighter can punch an opponent or dodge an opponent's punch as swiftly as possible; power is required so that maximum force can be used when punching; accuracy is required so that when a punch is thrown the boxer has a greater chance of hitting a target; and obviously the skill of blocking is required to avoid being hit in areas such as the face and abdomen. [0003] All of the abovementioned skills require dedicated training and hard work on behalf of the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0022] Preferably said arm includes an arm locking means adapted to lock said first arm member and said second arm member relatively. This allows the user to set each arm of the apparatus at their desired level so that differing reaches of an opponent may be simulated.

[0026] Advantageously said ball is made up of a soft, padded material. This ensures that the ball will not harm the user.

[0036] In preference said practice component includes a circular bearing which is journaled around an outer surface of said shaft and provides for smooth movement of said component.

[0043] Preferably said resilient arm includes a circular bearing-which is journaled around an outer surface of said shaft and provides for smooth movement of said arm.

Problems solved by technology

Boxing, martial arts and other full-contact sports are possibly the most gruelling of any other physical exercise in that they require the sportsman participating to be at peak physical fitness.

A freestanding upright bag serves virtually the same purpose as a suspended bag and use of the bag does little to develop skills in the boxer.

There are currently no devices known to the applicant allowing the user to simultaneously improve on skills such as speed, accuracy and blocking whereby a target, typically balls are positioned and configured so that, when struck, a simulation of both the high and low targets and the high and low counter punches of a real-life sparring partner occurs.

There are further no current devices known to the applicant which enable three-dimensional movement of the ball once struck, that is rotational, tiltable and pivotable motion, thereby providing the user with the unpredictable nature of a real life opponent.

Images