Golf Training Equipment

Abstract

A golf stroke training device is described that includes a light source that is attached to the golfer's chest. The light shines toward a visible surface, whereby observation of the light provides information about chest movement. Inference can be made as to how the golfer generates club movement with respect to factors such as rotation about the spine or movement at other joints such as the shoulders or hands. The invention is particularly useful for putting, but can also guide chest movement in other golf strokes.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Golf requires a coordinated swing or stroke to perform a variety of shots. For almost every shot, part of the body movement required is a controlled rotation of the upper body about the upper thoracic spine. In a full shot, the lower body moves so that the base of the spine is also moved. However, for shorter shots such as putting, all that may be required is a relatively slight rotation of the chest and limbs about the axis of the upper spine. Despite the apparent simplicity of the putting stroke, expert opinions as to the correct method have changed over the years.

[0002] At the turn of the twentieth century, golf guru Dave Pelz promoted a putting stroke that was relatively straight back and straight through, with the putter face held pointed toward the target throughout. This putter movement pattern, as viewed from above, is shown in Figure 1. Although the putter face is kept as aligned as possible with the target, it is clear to many players that the stroke feels unnatural and requires manipulation of the putter.

[0003] Since then, golf analysis has been improved by technologies such as video and computer imaging, and more recently by systems such as the SAM PuttLab (https: / / www.scienceandmotion.com / puttlab / ), which uses ultrasound to measure and display putter motion with great accuracy.

[0004] After much observation of advanced golfers, golf authorities now recommend a different motion pattern. When viewed from above, the putter head should move in a circular arc, coming inside the target line on the backswing and coming inside again on the follow-through. To the target, the putter face appears open on the backswing and closed on the forward swing. However, the putter face remains perpendicular to the path of the putter head. Importantly, the putter face is perpendicular to the target line at the moment of impact. This motion pattern is shown in Figure 2.

[0005] Video camera analysis can also show a view from behind the golfer, with the best putters being seen to keep the putter shaft in the "plane" established at address throughout the stroke. (The term plane is used widely in golf stroke analysis and is the imaginary flat surface along which the club shaft is seen to move, from the perspective of an observer or camera behind the golfer in that plane.)

[0006] The ideal pattern for this movement can theoretically be produced by a simple rotation of the upper body about the axis of the upper thoracic spine. The chest rotates while the shoulder blades (posterior scapular) remain in place against the posterior chest wall, so that the shoulders, arms, and hands are held in a constant position relative to the chest. Meanwhile, the head, neck, and lower body are held still. The upper spine in the chest must be the axis, since it is continuous with the spine in the neck.

[0007] However, many players find this technique difficult to apply. The potential reasons for this are explored. First, an analysis is made of how difficult it is for the golfer to get into the correct set-up or position, and the second part of the analysis is the movement patterns.

[0008] A first, fairly obvious reason for failure may be the inability to accurately align the body, particularly the upper chest and spine. Golf is a game played with the body at "right angles" to the target, which means, in the anatomical sense, that the frontal plane of the body should be aligned parallel to the intended path of the golf club, and in effect, parallel to the target line or the line from the ball to the target. This can be surprisingly difficult to achieve even when close to the hole when putting. This may be because the eyes cannot be aligned with the target.

[0009] Although the physics may not be immediately understood, there are other, more subtle reasons why technique can fail. When a golfer sets up to stroke a putt, if the angle of the thoracic spine in the sagittal plane is not matched with the angle of the putter shaft, as the torso rotates around the spine, the golfer's hands will not move in the plane of the putter shaft. A diagram is used to illustrate this interaction, using average proportions for the body and putter.

[0010] FIG. 3 shows the ideal position. The putter shaft has a typical "lie angle" of 70 degrees relative to the ground. The upper thoracic vertebrae can be said to have a lie angle of 20 degrees, as shown by the angle of the dotted line. Note that the spine and putter shaft are perpendicular to each other, so that as the torso rotates around the spine, the hands will move in the same plane as the putter shaft. The putter will move in an arc determined by both the height of the thoracic spine and the angle it makes with the ground. The putter face will naturally open and close throughout the stroke, with no manipulation required to try to keep the face perpendicular to the path of the putter. Note also that there is no unwanted rotational force on the putter that can be felt by the golfer's hands. It should be possible to feel control of the putter head with a light grip (as an advanced player would describe it).

[0011] Figure 4 shows the misalignment of the spine and putter shaft angles. The golfer is in a bent position so that the spine is relatively flat relative to the putter shaft. The putter lie angle is 70 degrees and the golfer can be said to have a spinal lie angle of 10 degrees. As the torso rotates around the spine, the hands move in a steeper vertical plane than the putter shaft.

[0012] Figure 5 shows the mismatch between the spine and the putter shaft angle, but here the golfer has a more upright posture so the upper thoracic spine is relatively vertical to the putter shaft. The spine has a 30 degree lie angle so as they rotate around the spine the hands move in a more horizontal plane than the putter shaft.

[0013] So a golfer can be set up to make what appears to be a relatively simple stroke, such as a short putt. However, if there is a pivotal misalignment of the upper spine, in one or the other of the frontal or sagittal planes, the stroke may become mechanically compromised. A golfer could move the putter in the correct path with the upper chest not well aligned in the frontal plane. A golfer could also move the putter in a particular plane despite being in a posture where the upper chest and upper spinal axis of rotation are not properly aligned with the sagittal plane. However, in both of these examples (which can coexist), there will be some manipulation of the putter by other means than a simple rotation of the upper chest around the spine.

[0014] Thus far, the problems golfers face can be summarized as arising from the golfer not being in the correct posture with proper alignment. The second part of the problem is that golfers are so accustomed to moving their shoulders, arms and hands in other golf strokes that these movements can be difficult to control, especially for delicate short shots.

[0015] The putting stroke is often described as essentially a swinging movement of the shoulders with the arms and putter moving under the shoulders like a pendulum in the plane. This pattern of movement is exactly what happens when the upper chest rotates around the upper spine while the shoulders are in a fixed relationship to the chest. As previously discussed, this appears to be the pattern of movement of an advanced putter. However, there are other patterns of movement that look very similar but have potentially very different results. This is a swinging movement of the shoulders but is generated by the sliding of the shoulder blades (scapular) on the chest wall. This may of course be accompanied by some rotation of the chest. It should be noted that it may be difficult for both the individual making the movement or an observer (even with a video camera) to tell if there is any additional movement of the shoulder blades (scapular) on the chest wall. Furthermore, the movement of the upper arm at the shoulder joint is not easily discernible. Other parts of the movement that may be undesirable, such as at the hand / wrist and elbow, are generally easier to observe.

[0016] Thus, while a rocking shoulder motion is widely believed to be the basis of a good putting stroke, the two methods for achieving it, as described, have quite different effects on the way the putter moves. Only with a stroke based on rotation about the thoracic spine will the putter move in an arc defined by the position of the spine, with the putter face remaining perpendicular to the arc throughout (these are highly desirable properties, as discussed above). However, when the stroke is based on a sliding motion of the shoulder blades, which do not necessarily move in sync, there is no rational reason for the putter to move in a particular arc, nor for the putter face to open or close in any defined relationship to the path of the putter.

[0017] Thus, although various training aids are available to help develop a repeatable putting stroke, none appear to be based on the golfer's anatomical characteristics or take into account the mechanical issues noted above.

[0018] Thus far, the background to the present invention has been focused on putting. This analysis reveals that what may seem like the simplest part of the game can be quite complicated since many physical factors may interact. Psychological concerns can arise as the putting stroke becomes unreliable. Many golfers at all levels find it frustrating and difficult. Some become so affected that they give up the game.

[0019] There are many examples of golf training devices in the prior art, most of which are aimed at either assisting the player in aiming the ball at a target or facilitating the best way to hit the ball (i.e., the correct swing motion). One such example is the device shown in European Patent Publication EP0427770, which describes a golf training device with a laser light generating mechanism within the grip of the training device that generates a laser light beam that projects outward from above the grip. In this device, collimated light emanating from the grip provides the golfer with a precise line of light that is visible during the backswing and downswing, providing golfer feedback prior to impact with the ball and allowing the golfer to correct their swing before hitting the golf ball.

[0020] Another example is the device proposed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0221116, which teaches a golf training club device with a light beam generator along the shaft that generates light beams directed toward inner and outer positions corresponding to the head and toe of the club head. The laser beam 28 traces a laser beam path 30 on the ground 32 as the golfer makes a swing.

[0021] Finally, International PCT Patent Publication WO2015118465 discloses a laser path guide intended to be attached to a glove worn by a user during a stroke. When wearing the glove training device, a golfer can take a stance with respect to one or more reference lines drawn on a practice surface, align a laser beam generated by the laser path guide directed to the reference points drawn on the practice surface, and practice a golf swing. During the practice of the golf swing, the laser beam should follow the reference lines drawn on the practice surface. When the laser beam follows the reference lines, a proper golf swing is produced.

[0022] While the above prior art examples each provide interesting examples of devices to assist golfers in perfecting their stroke, these devices do not take into account the importance of the relative motion of the upper chest and spine during the stroke. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0023] [Patent Document 1] EP0427770 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0221116 [Patent Document 3] WO2015118465 [Non-patent literature]

[0024] [Non-Patent Document 1] https: / / www.scienceandmotion.com / puttlab / Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0025] Thus, there is an advantage and rationale for improving the technique of a golf stroke, and novel apparatus and devices are described to assist in doing so. [Means for solving the problem]

[0026] In an embodiment of the invention, a teaching device is provided that includes a light source adapted to be secured around the front of a player's chest and configured to provide a visual indication of the rotation of the player's chest about the axis of the thoracic spine during movement while performing an actual or simulated golf stroke.

[0027] Preferably, the light source illuminates a surface that is visible to the player when making a stroke.

[0028] Preferably, the surface is the ground, a wall, a player's hands and / or arms, or a combination thereof.

[0029] Preferably, the light source illuminates the ground at a location adjacent or proximate to the club head of the golf club held by the player during the stroke.

[0030] Preferably, during the stroke, the player observes the comparative path of the light source to the ground surface relative to the path of the club head.

[0031] Preferably, the training aid comprises a light source support member adapted to secure the light source to the player.

[0032] Preferably the support member comprises a light source mounting means.

[0033] Preferably the mounting means comprises a threaded or clamping connection adapted to secure the light source to the support member.

[0034] Preferably, the attachment means comprises a magnet configured to magnetically couple to the light source.

[0035] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises one or more shoulder straps adapted to be secured to the light support member for securing the support member around a player's shoulders.

[0036] Preferably, shoulder straps are worn by the player and attached to a support member, the support member being positioned substantially across the midline of the sternum.

[0037] Preferably, the shoulder straps extend rearward and attach to a backboard that is positioned at the midline of the back.

[0038] In an alternative embodiment, the training device comprises a vest or holster adapted to be worn by the player, and the support member is attached to the vest or holster.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the attachment means is configured to secure the light source directly to the player's body.

[0040] Preferably, the mounting means further comprises an adjustment means adapted to vary the angle of the light from the light source relative to the housing.

[0041] More preferably, the adjustment means is adapted to vary the angle of light from the light source about the player's sagittal, frontal and transverse planes.

[0042] Preferably the light source is a collimated beam.

[0043] More preferably, the collimated beam is a laser.

[0044] Preferably, the training device comprises one or more first laser lines substantially along a line from the ball to the target and one or more second laser lines substantially transverse to the one or more first laser lines.

[0045] Preferably, the one or more first laser lines are substantially transverse to the face of the club used by the player.

[0046] In a further embodiment of the invention, the device further comprises at least one visual aid adapted to provide a visual reference for the movement of the light source during the stroke.

[0047] Preferably, the at least one visual aid comprises a first horizontal visual aid, the first visual aid being positioned on the ground surface at a position that is parallel to a line from the ball to the target of the stroke.

[0048] Preferably, the light source illuminates a laser line that is substantially parallel to the first visual aid or that is substantially above the first visual aid when the player is making a stroke.

[0049] Preferably, a second vertical visual aid is provided that is supported in a vertical plane.

[0050] In a further embodiment, the attachment means is further configured to secure an elongated rigid rod or pointer thereto.

[0051] Preferably, the elongate rod or pointer is adjustable in length.

[0052] In an embodiment of the invention, a golf stroke training device is provided that includes a light source adapted to be secured about the front of a player's chest and configured to provide a visual indication of the rotation of the player's chest about the axis of the thoracic spine during a stroke.

[0053] Preferably, the light source is configured to indicate the correctness of the upper chest set-up in the coronal plane and provide a means to distinguish errors in this respect from upper chest and upper spine tilt.

[0054] Preferably, the light source illuminates a surface that is visible to the player when making a stroke.

[0055] Preferably, the surface is the ground, a wall, a player's hands and / or arms, or a combination thereof.

[0056] Preferably, the light source illuminates the ground at a location adjacent or proximate to the club head of the golf club held by the player during the stroke.

[0057] Preferably, the light source illuminates the ground surface and is visible to the player when standing in position to stroke.

[0058] Preferably, the light source illuminates a ground surface adjacent or proximate to the player's club head.

[0059] Preferably, during the stroke, the player observes the comparative path of the light source to the ground surface relative to the path of the club head.

[0060] Preferably, the path of the light source relative to the ground surface during the optimal rotation follows a path that is substantially parallel to the path of the putter.

[0061] Preferably, the training aid comprises a light source support member adapted to secure the light source to the player.

[0062] Preferably the support member comprises a light source mounting means.

[0063] Preferably the mounting means comprises a threaded or clamping connection adapted to secure the light source to the support member.

[0064] Preferably, the attachment means comprises a magnet configured to magnetically couple to the light source.

[0065] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises one or more shoulder straps adapted to be secured to the light support member for securing the support member around a player's shoulders.

[0066] Preferably, shoulder straps are worn by the player and attached to a support member, the support member being positioned substantially across the midline of the sternum.

[0067] Preferably, the shoulder straps extend rearward and attach to a backboard that is positioned at the midline of the back.

[0068] In an alternative embodiment, the training device comprises a vest or holster adapted to be worn by the player, and the support member is attached to the vest or holster.

[0069] In an alternative embodiment, the attachment means is configured to secure the light source directly to the player's body.

[0070] Preferably, the mounting means further comprises an adjustment means adapted to vary the angle of the light from the light source.

[0071] More preferably, the adjustment means is adapted to vary the angle of light from the light source with respect to the sagittal, coronal and / or transverse planes of the player.

[0072] Preferably the light source is a collimated beam.

[0073] More preferably, the collimated beam is a laser.

[0074] Preferably, the training device comprises one or more first laser lines substantially along a line from the ball to the target and one or more second laser lines substantially transverse to the one or more first laser lines.

[0075] Preferably, the one or more first laser lines are substantially transverse to the face of the club used by the player.

[0076] Preferably, the one or more first laser lines are aligned to extend along an axis substantially transverse to the player's chest, and the one or more second laser lines extend along a sagittal plane.

[0077] In a further embodiment of the invention, the device further comprises at least one visual aid adapted to provide a visual reference for the movement of the light source during the stroke.

[0078] Preferably, the at least one visual aid comprises a first horizontal visual aid, the first visual aid being positioned on the ground surface at a position that is parallel to a line from the ball to the target of the stroke.

[0079] Preferably, the light source illuminates a laser line that is substantially parallel to the first visual aid or that is substantially above the first visual aid when the player is making a stroke.

[0080] Preferably, a second vertical visual aid is provided that is supported in a vertical plane.

[0081] In a further embodiment, the attachment means is further configured to secure an elongated rigid rod or pointer thereto.

[0082] Preferably, the elongate rod or pointer is adjustable in length. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0083] [Figure 1] A top view of the straight back and straight through style of putting stroke. [Diagram 2] A top view of a putter moving in an arc and the face of the putter remaining perpendicular to the arc. [Diagram 3]FIG. 1 is a diagram of a golfer in ideal posture with the upper thoracic spine angle perpendicular to the putter shaft. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a golfer whose spine angle is too flat compared to the putter shaft. [Diagram 5] This is a diagram of a golfer whose spine angle is too vertical compared to the putter shaft. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram of an embodiment of a training device of the present invention; [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a front view of a player wearing an embodiment of a training device of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a rear view of a player wearing an embodiment of a training device of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a side view of a player wearing a training device of the present invention with a wand or pointer element. [Figure 10] 1 is a depiction of a visual aid used in conjunction with a golf stroke training device in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] A diagram showing a laser projecting light perpendicular to the upper thoracic spine and parallel to the putter shaft. [Figure 12] A diagram of practicing a putter stroke with an arc path of the putter, but with a laser light from the chest making a straight line on the ground parallel to the ball-target line. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0084] Throughout this specification, reference will be made to various body positions, club positions, and lines along which the light source of the present invention may move when in use. Reference will be made to a concept referred to as the ball-to-target line, which is familiar to golfers and those skilled in the art. The ball-to-target line is an imaginary line that runs back on either side of the ball from where the ball is intended to begin moving when struck. This may not be where the ball may ultimately come to rest, particularly for putts on sloping greens, and thus the hole may not be the target. The club face will be oriented at 90 degrees to the ball-to-target line (sometimes referred to as transverse or perpendicular, or perpendicular).

[0085] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the various figures. Beginning with Figure 6, an embodiment of a golf stroke training device (10) of the present invention is shown. The training device (10) comprises a light source support member (50) adapted to be supported about the player's shoulder region by one or more shoulder straps (70, 72). The shoulder straps (70, 72) secure the support member (50) about the player's shoulder region such that the support member is positioned substantially across the midline of the sternum, which is best shown in Figure 7. The shoulder straps also extend rearward where they connect with a back plate (80) that is positioned across the upper thoracic vertebrae and at the midline of the back.

[0086] In use, the back plate (80) is held flush against the skin of the upper back, preferably at the midline between the back plate scapular portions, as shown in Figure 8. The back plate (80) overlaps approximately the second through seventh thoracic vertebrae, so that the plate is parallel to these vertebral bodies.

[0087] Although it has been shown that shoulder straps (70, 72) and back plate (80) can be used to provide suitable support for the wearable support member (50), one or more chest straps can alternatively be used to achieve the same purpose. It should be understood, however, that the wearable support member (50), when in use, should be located in an area which follows the rotation of the player's chest about the axis of the thoracic spine when making a stroke.

[0088] In other embodiments, the wearable support member (50) may be attached to a specially designed garment worn by the player, such as a shirt, vest, or holster. In this embodiment, it is contemplated that the support member (50) would be secured to the front of the garment via suitable attachment means. Alternatively, the support member may be incorporated as part of the wearable garment itself, as a single wearable item, or may be attached directly to the player's skin using suitable connections.

[0089] Importantly, light source support member (50) may in fact be supported at a location substantially across the midline of the sternum using a variety of alternative means without departing from the scope of the present invention, and thus is not to be overly limited. The key consideration is that the support member provide a secure mounting for light source (60), which is described in further detail below.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 9, the support member (50) may optionally be configured to provide a mounting for an elongated wand or pointer (90). This mounting may be done either in combination with a light source or alone by itself. Preferably, the elongated wand or pointer (90) is made of a stiff, light weight material and has an adjustable length. For example, a retractable wand may be used that allows the user to adjust the length of the wand between various lengths. That is, it is not a requirement that the elongated wand or pointer be adjustable, and the invention may be provided in kit form with several different wand sizes.

[0091] The use of the elongated rod or pointer (90) makes it easier for the player to orient the support member approximately perpendicular to the back plate (80) so that when a light source is added to the device, the golfer knows that the light will emanate from the thorax perpendicular to the upper thoracic spine. Secondly, the use of the pointer allows the player to ensure that the putter shaft is parallel to the pointer.

[0092] As best seen in FIG. 9, the angle of the elongated bar or pointer (90) is adjusted so that the elongated bar or pointer (90) appears perpendicular to the backboard. The elongated bar or pointer (90) is also parallel to the shaft of the putter. This provides visual confirmation that in this position, there is an optimal match between the spine angle and the putter shaft angle. This allows the putter to "fit" the golfer so that the golfer can better develop or use their putting stroke based on the rotation of the thoracic spine.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the support member (50) is shown to include a rigid body (52) to which the light source (60) is secured. Although not shown in detail in the figures, the light source (60) is removably attached to the support member (50) via a suitable attachment means (54). The structure and type of attachment means for the light source is not intended to be overly limiting, merely intended to adequately secure the light source (60). However, in a preferred embodiment, the attachment means is a threaded connection to fasten the light source (60) or a fastening mechanism to fasten the light source to the wearable support member. Other suitable attachment means include, but are not limited to, magnets or Velcro™.

[0094] As shown, the light source (60) is a collimated light source, such as a laser. While a laser is preferred because it provides good visibility in a variety of lighting conditions, the type of light source used in the present invention is not overly limited and can be any light source capable of producing a single dot, a pattern, or one or more lines on the ground surface proximate to a player's club or putter head. A pattern or one or more lines is preferred for improved comprehension.

[0095] It is preferred that the light source produces a pattern that is visible to the player in all indoor and outdoor light conditions and therefore has sufficient intensity. The pattern produced by the laser can be a grid or cross, whereby the laser is configured to produce lines on the ground that are substantially along or parallel to the ball-to-target line. In this embodiment, one or more first lines of the grid or cross pattern produced by the laser (60) at the ground surface are aligned substantially parallel to the ball-to-target line, commonly referred to as the "target line". As a result, one or more second lines of the grid or cross pattern produced by the laser (60) at the ground surface are aligned equal to or substantially parallel to the club face, or in other words, transverse to the one or more first lines. In the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8, a single laser line (500) is formed on the ground adjacent to the club head and is shown set up to be substantially parallel to the face of the club face (600).

[0096] While it is the preferred embodiment of the invention for the light source to generate a pattern on the ground surface, in some embodiments the laser may be guided to be incident on the user's forearm or hand. In this embodiment, the player during the putting stroke can monitor for undesirable movement outside of the preferred isolated rotation of the thoracic spine, for example. In more powerful strokes, the player may want to tolerate and observe some additional movement and the timing of this into the chest rotation.

[0097] The mounting means (54) of the support member (50) allows the coach or player to adjust or pivot the direction of the light source. It is preferred that the light source be adjusted to illuminate the ground surface adjacent or proximate to the player's club head and be visible to the player. This not only allows the player to clearly see the light source on the ground during the stroke, but also allows the player to maintain good eye contact with the ball being hit.

[0098] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the mounting means allows the player to adjust the direction of the light source. Golf is a game in which the player is almost always to the side of the intended line of play or at substantially 90 degrees to that line. It is generally desirable for the player to be aware of his orientation in this respect. To this end, the first laser line can be adjusted so that the light from the laser can be displayed on the wall or on the ground, depending on the player's posture. So, if the player stands directly facing a wall that is parallel to the target line, the first laser line will be horizontal at the wall, and will be parallel to the ball target line when the laser is lowered in the sagittal plane, or when the golfer simply bends from the hips to assume a position for a golf stroke. Under the same circumstances, the second line (at 90 degrees to the first line) will be a vertical line when at the wall, and a line below the upper spine when at the ground.

[0099] In use, when setting up to make a stroke during training, particularly for putting, the player will align one or more first laser lines substantially parallel to the ball-to-target line. If the first line of the laser is set to project from the chest at 90 degrees in the sagittal plane to the spine upwards, during a stroke based on a rotation of the chest around the axis of the spine, the first line will move backwards and forwards at a distance away from the golfer in the same line parallel to the ball-to-target line. However, if the laser is not at 90 degrees to the spine, but only 70 degrees (so that the first line is closer to the player's feet), the rotation of the thoracic spine will cause the first line to move in a concave ellipse towards the player's feet.

[0100] Also, during the stroke, the player will observe the relative movement of the one or more first lines relative to the club head, whereby the one or more first lines should remain moving in sync with the club head, which is a visual cue that spinal rotation is the original source of the movement.

[0101] The second line or lines illuminated by the light source as the player makes the stroke can shine on the putter and other parts such as the putter grip, hand, or arm. If the lines do not stay in place throughout the stroke, this is an indication that there is a source of additional movement. This is an important function of the device, especially for putting. The second line or lines crossing the target line also provide a visual guide to how the putter face should open or close throughout the stroke. If there is a stroke based on spinal rotation, this should occur naturally and does not require manipulation by the hand or the like. A comparison of these second line or lines to the leading edge of the putter, with or without movement at additional sites such as the shoulder, can reveal this manipulation. It is noted that the above function of the second laser lines is regardless of what the laser setting is to the upper spine in the sagittal plane.

[0102] The one or more second laser lines are set substantially transverse to the one or more first laser lines. In this approach, the one or more second laser lines are set parallel to the club face, as best shown in Figures 7 and 8. Again, it should be noted that Figures 7 and 8 show only one embodiment of the invention, whereby a single laser line is provided that is substantially parallel to the club face.

[0103] In view of the above, it will be appreciated that the relative movement of the light source on the ground is easier to visualize when using a club. However, it is not a requirement of the present invention that the player use a club when using the training device. The device provides a simple and easy to use mechanism for monitoring the rotation of the player's thorax about the axis of the thoracic spine. This allows the player to significantly enhance his movement during the stroke, thereby significantly improving the accuracy of his play on the course.

[0104] Thus far, most of the reference has been made to the laser line. However, it should be understood that a single point laser could be used and provide better visibility in bright conditions. If the laser is set at a right angle to the thoracic spine, the point will move in a line parallel to the ball-to-target line when spinal rotation is optimal. Alternatively, the laser point can be directed more towards a body part such as the putter head, or the hand. For example, asynchronous movement of the putter head and the laser point would indicate if there is any source of movement occurring in addition to the thoracic spine rotation. Asynchronous movement of the laser point and the hand would indicate most likely movement in the shoulder area.

[0105] In yet a further embodiment of the present invention, one or more visual aids are provided for use with the golf stroke training device of the present invention. The visual aids help facilitate the player in monitoring and observing the movement of the light source during the stroke. In particular, the visual aids provide a quick visual reference of the movement of the light source, and thus in some instances make it significantly easier for the player to identify the correct rotation about the thoracic spine that occurs during the stroke.

[0106] As shown in Figure 10, this embodiment of the invention includes a first horizontal visual aid (700) and a second vertical visual aid (702). Visual aids (700) and (702) may be used in combination with each other or alone, but are intended to be used in conjunction with a wearable light source, which is described in more detail in the preceding paragraphs of this specification.

[0107] The first horizontal visual aid (700) is shown to be placed on a surface on which a player is practicing his stroke or rotation, such as the ground. In this example, the first horizontal visual aid (700) is placed in a position that is parallel to the target line of the stroke, which is also depicted in Figures 1-2 as a dotted line (20). It is understood that the first horizontal visual aid (700) can be made from a variety of different materials, which can be flexible or rigid, so long as it has the ability to form a substantially straight line on the surface on which it is placed. For example, the material can be an elongated metal or plastic tube or rod, but may in fact be a flexible material such as a rope. Alternatively, it may be one or more lines drawn on the ground surface using a suitable marker. Plastic alignment rods are readily available on the market and are widely used.

[0108] When a player sets up to practice his stroke and rotation using the present invention with visual aids, the laser line of one or more second lines of light sources is set up such that when worn by the user, it is parallel to or substantially above the first horizontal visual aid (700). In this example, correct thoracic spine rotation and movement during the stroke is indicated by the laser line following a path that is parallel to or above the visual aid (700) at the ground surface.

[0109] As also shown in FIG. 9, a second vertical visual aid (702) is provided that is at an angle (A) in the transverse plane relative to the transverse plane of the first horizontal visual aid (700). The vertical visual aid (702) can be made from a variety of materials, which can be flexible or rigid, so long as it has the ability to form a substantially straight line on the surface on which it is placed. As shown in the figure, the visual aid (702) is supported in contact with a wall or vertical surface (750). It is understood that the second vertical visual aid (702) can be made from a variety of materials, which can be flexible or rigid, so long as it has the ability to form a substantially straight line on the surface on which it is supported.

[0110] When setting up the visual aid (702), the angle (A) should be substantially equal to the club shaft at address and will vary depending on the player's stance. In this regard, as the player makes the stroke and exhibits correct thoracic spine rotation, the laser line following the first horizontal visual aid (700) at the ground surface will continue to follow or be substantially parallel to the resetting visual aid (702) in a vertical plane. It should be noted that the vertical plane may actually be an adjacent wall when the device is used indoors.

[0111] As previously described, the present invention is primarily directed to a device that can be attached to the player's sternum, so that the movement of the device is very closely correlated with the movement of the thoracic spine. This is especially true for rotation. The spine rotates with small changes in the orientation between each vertebral body. When a stroke is made in which the head and neck remain stationary, the uppermost thoracic vertebrae must also stay in place, but rotate on their axis. The facet joints in the thoracic and cervical spine are aligned in a way that allows for rotation, and it is exactly the movement in a golf stroke that the device can accentuate.

[0112] FIG. 11 shows a depiction of a golfer in a putter-holding position with the golf stroke training device (10) of the present invention secured to the golfer's chest. The dotted line represents light emitted from a light source, a laser in this example. The laser line is aligned to be perpendicular to the upper thoracic vertebrae and parallel to the shaft of the putter. The lie angle of the putter is 70 degrees, the laser line enters the ground at 70 degrees, and the upper thoracic vertebrae have a lie angle of 20 degrees, so this is an ideal match of the plane of the putter shaft and the angle of the spine, as described above. If the chest is rotated about this axis, the laser will create a line on the ground that is parallel to the ball-target line, but a straight line further away from the golfer. Putting strokes with and without the ball can be practiced backwards and forwards while observing the movement of the laser line. On a flat ground, the line should remain straight and always run parallel to the ball-target line. This is shown in FIG. 12. The dotted line is the line from the ball to the target, and the solid line is the line along which the laser beam should move.

[0113] It should be understood that the present invention can be used with a variety of golf strokes. A short chip shot can be made with a wedge, for example, with little arm or wrist movement, with rotation around the spine. A first laser line or dot at a position parallel to the ball target line will indicate the rotation of the thoracic spine. A second laser line will indicate how the arms relate to the chest. For short shots, it may be desirable to minimize movement in areas such as the scapular region at the chest wall, or the joint of the upper arm with the scapular region. However, as golf strokes become more powerful, it may be desirable to have movement in these areas in addition to the rotation of the chest around the upper spine. Observing the pattern of the second line movement in the arms can provide useful information of the timing and degree of arm swing in these strokes.

[0114] Specifically, the present invention allows for analysis and improvement through training for all golf shots. For long shots that require a full swing, the present invention can prevent some golfers from using the entire arms, but the present invention can be used to practice body rotation, swinging without the arms, or using the "trailing" arm, i.e., only the right arm for right-handed golfers, and the ball can be hit in this manner in practice. The correct body movements in these situations can be mastered as follows:

[0115] The golfer assumes his normal stance for the shot, with the laser set at 90 degrees to the spine, as previously described. The laser dot, or either the first or second line, can shine down on the ground at some distance from the golfer, becoming closer as the club becomes shorter and thus the stance becomes more bent.

[0116] If the golfer rotates only the thoracic spine while keeping the legs and pelvis stationary and keeping a constant axis, the laser light incident on the ground will move in a straight line that stays parallel to the ball target line. Alternatively, if the golfer passively rotates the torso while instead using the legs to rotate the pelvis, maintaining the same height and the same spinal axis, a different pattern of line movement can be seen. For example, the laser line may move more inwardly around the golfer in an arc. This possible difference in the pattern of light movement between wrapping around the spine itself and spinal rotation at the pelvis is generally because the pelvis cannot be rotated by the legs on an axis with the same abruptness as the spine. A similar pattern of light movement at the ground during the downswing can be used to educate the golfer on the pattern of torso movement.

[0117] It should be noted that the laser housing can be rotated so that both laser lines move in a transverse or horizontal plane, and in this way both lines can be moved from the ground to be displayed on the wall to either side of the golfer. The first line extends up the wall and is at 90 degrees to the second line which projects onto the wall and mirrors the upper spine angle at the wall. The movement patterns of these lines can be observed in a similar manner as when they are on the ground, but the human mind can better relate to the same data presented in a slightly different visual manner.

[0118] Potentially, many deficiencies can be identified and corrective movements implemented. For example, if the hips move incorrectly on the downswing, this can result in the golfer not being able to perform the correct chest movement, as manifested by the golfer not being able to move the laser light back along a particular path. Thus, the golfer can practice being able to move the laser line in a particular path and learn the proper pattern of body movement.

[0119] Throughout the detailed description, the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described with respect to the use of a golf club with the training device. This is not a requirement of the present invention, and in particular in some embodiments, the training device can be used as a teaching aid without the user having to hold a golf club. In this manner, the present invention can be used to teach a player to correct his or her spinal rotation during a simulated stroke motion. The teaching device allows the user to visualize how the spine is moving and provide real-time feedback to correct any flaws in the motion. The player will monitor the path of the light source emanating from the ground as they make rotational or other movements that may be required during a golf stroke, as described in the previous paragraph.

[0120] Golf is a game in which the player stands to the side of or "perpendicular" to the direction in which the ball is intended to travel (commonly referred to as the target line). Thus, knowing the orientation of the chest is very useful information, but is not easy to do without visual aid when the golfer bends forward, mostly at the hip joints, as he approaches the shot. Also, due to the mobility of many of the joints as described above, the alignment of the chest and upper spine cannot be easily guided by the alignment of the shoulders, or the alignment of the legs and pelvis. Therefore, the present invention provides a method by which a user can easily monitor his or her anatomical motion in real time.

[0121] The present invention primarily provides visual guidance to allow the user to monitor spinal rotation throughout the execution of the stroke. However, as will be appreciated, some strokes in the game of golf may actually require some tilt of the spine away from the target. This is typically the case when the ball is "teed up" and the golfer is attempting to hit upwards to launch the ball on a higher trajectory for maximum distance. Therefore, an important part of being in the ideal posture or setup for any golf shot is knowing the orientation of the upper chest and upper spine before the shot is executed. If the pivot point or axis of rotation is not in the correct position, it is more difficult to execute the correct movement.

[0122] Since the training device of the present invention is in a predetermined and fixed position at the central bone in front of the chest, i.e., the sternum, one or more laser lines generated by the device can indicate the relative alignment of the sternum, rib cage, and upper thoracic vertebrae. This is described in more detail below with respect to the use of the training device, whereby, for ease of reference, the device is illustrated where the light source (i.e., the laser) emits two separate lines on the ground, substantially in the shape of a T. Since tilt and rotation of the laser relative to the housing is permitted via the mounting means, the player uses this adjustment to check and correct the emitted laser line before use. In this regard, for ease of use, it is preferred that this step is performed against a vertical surface (i.e., a wall, etc.). The user checks that when in an upright stance (i.e., no spinal bending), the first laser line is substantially horizontal and the second line is substantially vertical.

[0123] Once the user has donned the device and confirmed the laser alignment as described in the immediately preceding paragraph, they move to bend at the hips or at the lower spine so that the laser line formed by the light source appears on the ground. If the spine and chest remain perpendicular to the target, the first laser line will be parallel to the ball-target line (i.e., the "target line"). The second laser line formed by the training device of the present invention is centered under the upper spine. With this in mind, using the present invention, it is relatively easy to see what happens if the alignment of the upper chest is not perpendicular to the target. The first laser will either point to the target or tilt of the upper spine to the side. The position of the second laser line will change with either the target or tilt. The position of the second laser line will be centered if only the target is to one side, and angled away from the midline if the upper chest is tilted.

[0124] It will thereby be appreciated that the training device of the present invention not only allows a user to monitor his or her own movements during a stroke, but also coaches a person in setting up for a perfect stroke and target.

[0125] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprises" and variations such as "comprising" are understood to include the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the term "approximately" means ±20%.

[0126] Those skilled in the art will understand that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent, and all such variations and modifications that become apparent to those skilled in the art should be considered to be within the spirit and scope of the invention as broadly set forth before the present invention is described. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 10. Golf Stroke Training Device 50 Light source support member 52 Rigid body 54 Attachment means 60 Light source, laser 70, 72 Shoulder strap 80 Backboard 90 A thin rod or pointer 500 Single Laser Line 600 Club Face 700 First horizontal visual aid 702 Second Vertical Visual Aid 750 Walls, vertical surfaces A Angle

Claims

1. 1. An instruction device comprising: a light source adapted to be fixed about a front of a player's chest, the light source configured to provide visual indications of the orientation of the player's chest and rotation of the chest about the axis of the thoracic spine during movement while performing an actual or simulated golf stroke.

2. The instruction device of claim 1 , wherein the light source illuminates a surface that is visible to the player when making the stroke.

3. The coaching device of claim 2 , wherein the surface is the ground, a wall, the player's hands and / or arms, or a combination thereof.

4. The instruction device of claim 2 , wherein the light source illuminates a ground surface adjacent or proximate to a club head of a golf club held by the player during the stroke.

5. 3. The teaching device of claim 2, wherein during a stroke, the player observes comparative paths of the light source onto the surface during the actual or simulated golf stroke.

6. 5. The teaching device of claim 4, wherein during a stroke, the player observes a comparative path of the light source to a ground surface relative to a path of a club head.

7. 7. The instruction device of claim 1, wherein the training aid comprises a light source support member adapted to secure the light source to the player.

8. The instruction device of claim 7 , wherein the support member comprises a light source mounting means.

9. 8. The training device of claim 7, wherein the attachment means comprises a threaded or clamping connection adapted to secure the light source to the support member.

10. 8. The training device of claim 7, wherein the attachment means comprises a magnet configured to magnetically couple the attachment means to the light source.

11. 10. The training device of claim 7, further comprising one or more shoulder straps adapted to be secured to the light source support member to secure the support member around the player's shoulders.

12. 10. The training device of claim 9, wherein when the shoulder straps are worn by the player and attached to the support member, the support member lies substantially across the midline of the sternum.

13. 12. The training device of claim 11, wherein the shoulder straps extend rearward and are attached to a backboard that is positioned at the midline of the back.

14. 10. A training device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, comprising a vest or a holster adapted to be worn by the player, the support member being attached to the vest or the holster.

15. 8. The training device of claim 7, wherein the support member is configured to secure the light source directly to the player's body.

16. 9. The training device of claim 8, wherein the mounting means further comprises an adjustment means adapted to vary an angle of light emitted from the light source.

17. 17. A training device according to claim 16, wherein the adjustment means is adapted to vary the angle of the light about the player's midline.

18. 14. The training device of claim 1, wherein the light source is a collimated beam.

19. 20. The training device of claim 18, wherein the collimated beam is a laser.

20. 14. The training device of claim 1, wherein the light source is a laser configured to shine one or more laser lines.

21. The one or more laser lines include (i) one or more first laser lines along a line from the ball to the target; (ii) one or more second laser lines substantially transverse to the one or more first laser lines; and 21. The training device of claim 20, comprising:

22. 22. The training device of claim 21, wherein the one or more first laser lines are substantially along a line from the ball to the target.

23. 23. The training device of any one of claims 2 to 22, further comprising at least one visual aid adapted to provide a visual reference for the movement of the light source during a stroke.

24. 24. The training device of claim 23, wherein the at least one visual aid comprises a first horizontal visual aid, the first visual aid being positioned on the ground surface in a position that is parallel to a target line of the stroke.

25. 25. The training device of claim 24, wherein the light source illuminates a laser line that is substantially parallel to or substantially on top of the first visual aid when the player is making the stroke.

26. 26. A training device according to any one of claims 23 to 25, further comprising a second vertical visual aid supported in a vertical plane.

27. 9. The training device of claim 8, wherein the attachment means is further configured to secure an elongated rigid rod or pointer thereto.

28. 28. The training device of claim 27, wherein the elongate rod or pointer is adjustable in length.

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