Boxing Training Equipment

Abstract

[0003] Embodiments generally relate to a boxing training device attachable to a support structure. Embodiments also relate to a method of assembling a boxing training device. An exemplary device includes: a support member attachable to the support structure, at least one biasing member attachable to the support member, a strikeable member displaceably attachable to the support member, where the at least one biasing member is disposed between the support member and the strikeable member, the strikeable member having a mirrored surface and displaceable from a standby position toward the support member when the mirrored surface is struck, and a stop member attachable to the support member, where after the strikeable member is displaced, the strikeable member is biased toward the stop member by the at least one biasing member to return the strikeable member to the standby position.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to boxing training devices and kits for assembling such devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Boxing training involves the development of many skills required for boxing, including, for example, striking speed, striking timing, striking power, striking technique, cardiovascular endurance, head movement and positioning, conditioning, spatial awareness, balance, and footwork.

[0003] Boxers may engage in shadow boxing, also known as shadow sparring, as part of their training regimen to improve at least one of striking technique, head movement and positioning, footwork, and spatial awareness. Shadow boxing involves a boxer sparring with an imaginary opponent, simulating a boxing match in a less demanding environment, as opposed to sparring with a sparring partner, as a way for a boxer to understand which areas of their skills need improvement.

[0004] Shadow boxing is also performed in front of a mirror, which provides the boxer with immediate visual feedback to evaluate boxing technique, head movement and positioning, footwork, and spatial awareness. However, when shadow boxing in front of a mirror, there is no physical feedback to allow the boxer to evaluate aspects such as safe wrist positioning and strike power, because the boxer strikes in the air while looking at their own reflection in the mirror, which is different from hitting a heavy bag, which provides physical feedback. However, when hitting a heavy bag, the boxer must face the bag, and therefore cannot face the mirror to evaluate boxing technique, head movement and positioning, footwork, and spatial awareness.

[0005] Any statement of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like contained in this specification should not be construed as an admission that any or all of such matters constitute part of the prior art or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to this disclosure as they existed before the priority date of each appended claim. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] GB Patent Application Publication No. 2605759 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0249473 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0285826 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0130952 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a boxing training device attachable to a support structure, the device including: a support member attachable to the support structure; at least one biasing member attachable to the support member; a strikeable member displaceably attachable to the support member, wherein the at least one biasing member is disposed between the support member and the strikeable member, the strikeable member having a mirrored surface and displaceable from a standby position toward the support member when the mirrored surface is struck; and a stop member attachable to the support member, wherein after the strikeable member is displaced, the strikeable member is biased toward the stop member by the at least one biasing member to return the strikeable member to the standby position.

[0008] The strikeable member may define at least one aperture, and the support member may include at least one guide member each received in the at least one aperture of the strikeable member, thereby allowing the strikeable member to be displaced along each of the at least one guide members via the at least one aperture. The strikeable member may include at least one insert at least partially received in the at least one aperture to facilitate smooth displacement of the strikeable member along each of the at least one guide members. The stop member may be attachable to each of the at least one guide members and thereby be attachable to the support member. The stop member may define at least one aperture, and the stop member may be attachable to the support member by at least one fastener each received by the at least one guide member via the at least one aperture of the stop member. The at least one biasing member may be attachable to the support member by being attachable to a corresponding at least one guide member.

[0009] The strikeable member may contact the stop member when in the standby position. The at least one biasing member may be detachably attached to the support member. The or each of the at least one biasing member may include at least one cantilever spring member. The or each of the at least one biasing member may include a base portion and a plurality of cantilever spring members connected to the base portion, the base portion being attached to the support member. The plurality of cantilever spring members may be arranged equidistant from one another around the base portion.

[0010] The or each of the at least one biasing member may comprise a coil spring. The at least one biasing member may define an effective spring constant of between about 5 and about 15. The at least one biasing member may include a plurality of biasing members attached to the support member and spaced apart from one another to define a pattern.

[0011] The maximum distance that the strikeable member can be displaced from the standby position toward the support member can be between about 10 millimeters and about 100 millimeters.The maximum distance that the strikeable member can be displaced from the standby position toward the support member can be between about 30 millimeters and about 50 millimeters.

[0012] The support member may include at least one positioning portion for disposing the at least one biasing member on the support member. The mirror surface may include a pair of spaced apart vertical lines positioned to act as guides for positioning the user's head during use.

[0013] The strikeable member may include a non-metallic member and a metal plate, wherein the metal plate has or carries a mirrored surface. The metal plate may include stainless steel. The non-metallic member may include plywood. The non-metallic member may include plastic. The non-metallic member may define at least one hole. The non-metallic member may be secured to the metal plate by an adhesive.

[0014] The strikeable member may further include a cushioning member to absorb force when the strikeable member is struck. The cushioning member may include a foam sheet. The cushioning member may be disposed between the non-metallic member and the metal plate. The non-metallic member may be attached to a first surface of the foam sheet, for example, by adhesive, and the metal plate may be attached to a second, opposite surface of the foam sheet, for example, by adhesive.

[0015] The support member may include a non-metallic member. The support member may define at least one hole. The stop member may include a frame member and at least partially cover the support member, the strikeable member, and the at least one biasing member. The above device may further include a damping member disposed between the strikeable member and the stop member to damp movement and / or impact when the strikeable member returns to the standby position. The damping member may include a foam member.

[0016] In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of assembling a boxing training device, the method comprising the steps of: attaching at least one biasing member of the device to a support member of the device; displaceably attaching a strikeable member of the device to the support member, wherein the at least one biasing member is disposed between the support member and the strikeable member, the strikeable member having a mirrored surface and being displaceable from a standby position toward the support member when the mirrored surface is struck; and attaching a stop member of the device to the support member, wherein after the strikeable member has been displaced, the strikeable member is biased toward the stop member by the at least one biasing member to return the strikeable member to the standby position.

[0017] In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a boxing training device attachable to a support structure, the device including: at least one biasing member attachable to the support structure; a strikeable member displaceably attachable to the support structure, wherein the at least one biasing member is disposed between the support member and the strikeable member, the strikeable member having a mirrored surface, the strikeable member being displaceable from a standby position toward the support structure when the mirrored surface is struck; and a stop member attachable to the support structure, wherein after the strikeable member is displaced, the strikeable member is biased toward the stop member by the at least one biasing member to return the strikeable member to the standby position.

[0018] The strikeable member may define at least one opening, and the device may further include at least one guide member attachable to the support structure, the strikeable member displaceably attachable to the support structure by the at least one guide member respectively housed in the at least one opening of the strikeable member, thereby allowing the strikeable member to be displaceable along each of the at least one guide member through the at least one opening. The at least one biasing member may be attachable to the support structure by being attachable to each of the at least one guide member between the support structure and the strikeable member. The stop member may be attachable to the support structure by being attachable to each of the at least one guide member. The stop member may include a frame member at least partially covering the strikeable member and the at least one biasing member.

[0019] Throughout this specification the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to mean the inclusion of a specified element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1A-1C show perspective views of some embodiments of a boxing training device, with the strikeable members and frame members visible. [Figure 2] 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the boxing training device shown in FIG. 1, further showing the support member and a plurality of biasing members attached to the support member; [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the support member shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4]3 shows a front view of the embodiment of the strikeable member shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 illustrates an embodiment of the multiple biasing members shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. [Figure 6] 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the boxing training device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 7 shows a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for assembling a boxing training device such as the device shown in FIGS. 1-6. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present disclosure generally relates to boxing training devices, as well as kits and methods for assembling such devices. Embodiments of such devices, kits, and methods are shown and described by way of example. In the drawings, reference numeral 10 designates a boxing training device 10 mountable to a support structure (not shown). The device 10 includes a support member 12 mountable to the support structure and at least one biasing member 14 mountable to the support member 12. The device 10 further includes a strikeable member 16 displaceably mountable to the support member 12, with the at least one biasing member 14 disposed between the support member 12 and the strikeable member 16. The strikeable member 16 has a mirrored surface 18 that is displaceable from a standby position 20 toward the support member 12 when the mirrored surface 18 is struck. The device 10 further includes a stop member 23 attachable to the support member 12, whereby the strikeable member 16 is urged towards the stop member 23 by at least one biasing member 14 to return the strikeable member 16 to the standby position 20 after the strikeable member 16 has been displaced.

[0023] The support structure may include any structure capable of supporting the entire mass of the boxing training apparatus 10. For example, the support structure may include a wall, one or more posts or poles, or a plank, such that the installed boxing apparatus 10 is portable by carrying the plank on which the boxing apparatus 10 is installed. The support member 12 may be attached to the support structure using fasteners, such as screws or nails that are driven through the support member 12 and into the support structure. Alternatively, other fasteners, such as ropes, or cable ties, or hard clips, may be used to attach the support member 12 to the support structure, for example, when the support structure is one or more poles or a portable plank.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the stop member 23 is in the form of a frame member 22. The frame member 22 is adapted to at least partially cover the support member 12, the strikeable member 16, and the at least one biasing member 14. In other embodiments, the frame member 22 may be attachable to a support structure in place of the support member 12. In such embodiments, the support member 12 may be rigidly joined to the frame member 22, such that the support member 12 supports the strikeable member 16 as it displaces against the at least one biasing member 14 attached to the support member 12. In other embodiments, the stop member 23 may include one or more components, such as one or more brackets, attachable to a support structure to provide a barrier against which the strikeable member 16 abuts as it returns to its parked position.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 12 comprises plywood, and the strikeable member 16 comprises a non-metallic member in the form of a non-metallic plate 24 and a metallic member in the form of a metal plate 26. The metal plate 26 includes or carries the mirrored surface 18. The metal plate 26 may include or be formed of stainless steel. The non-metallic plate 24 may include or be formed of plywood, for example, to provide a lightweight yet rigid support for the metal plate 26. In other embodiments, the non-metallic plate 24 may include or be formed of plastic, to increase the flexibility or elastic deformation of the strikeable member 16 when the mirrored surface 18 is struck. The thickness of the plywood of the support member 12 and the plywood or plastic plate of the non-metallic plate 24 may be, for example, between about 6 millimeters and about 20 millimeters, or between about 8 millimeters and about 14 millimeters. The thickness of the metal plate 26 can be between about 0.25 millimeters and about 5 millimeters, or between about 0.5 millimeters and about 2 millimeters.

[0026] The non-metallic plate 24 may be attached, connected, or mounted to the metal plate 26, for example, by an adhesive. In such an embodiment, the strikeable member 16 is formed from a laminate including the non-metallic plate 24 and the metal plate 26. Stainless steel, having a surface reflectance on one side of between about 60% and about 90%, or between about 70% and about 85%, may be selected for the metal plate 26 that forms the mirror surface 18. Other suitable materials may be used in place of the metal plate 26 to form the mirror surface 18, such as tempered glass, polycarbonate, and / or plastic.

[0027] The strikeable member 16 defines a plurality of apertures 28; in the illustrated embodiment, the apertures 28 are formed by a first set of apertures 30 defined by the non-metallic plate 24 and are coaxial with a second set of apertures 32 defined by the metallic plate 26. The support member 12 includes a plurality of guide members in the form of threaded inserts 34, which have threaded holes on both sides and are made of metal and are received in the apertures 28 of the strikeable member 16, thereby allowing the strikeable member 16 to be displaced along the plurality of threaded inserts 34 through the apertures 28. The threaded inserts 34 are in the form of elongated elements and allow the strikeable member 16 to be displaced along each of the threaded inserts 34. In the illustrated embodiment, four apertures 28 are defined in the strikeable member 16, and four threaded inserts 34 are respectively attached to the support member 12. In other embodiments, each guide member may be formed from other materials, such as plastic, and / or may instead include, for example, dowel pins, bolts, and nails. A single opening 28 and corresponding single threaded insert 34 may be provided in other embodiments.

[0028] The threaded inserts 34 are attached to the support member 12 via fasteners 36, which are inserted into holes 38 defined by the support member 12 and threaded into the threaded inserts 34. The fasteners 36 may be in the form of screws, as shown in FIG. 2, or may be in the form of nails in embodiments of the guide member that do not include threaded inserts 34. In some embodiments, the stop members 23 may be in the form of one or more fasteners, e.g., screws (not shown), that are fastened to each of the threaded inserts 34. It will be understood that in FIG. 2, one of the four threaded inserts 34 is hidden by the support member 12.

[0029] The strikeable member 16 includes multiple inserts 40 that are each at least partially received in the openings 28 of the strikeable member 16 to facilitate smooth displacement of the strikeable member 16 along the threaded insert 34. In the illustrated embodiment, four inserts 40 are each partially received in the openings 28 of the strikeable member 16 because each insert 40 is sized to pass through the first set of openings 30 defined by the non-metallic plate 24 but not through the second set of openings 32 defined by the metallic plate 26, because the diameter of the second set of openings 32 is smaller than the diameter of the first set of openings 30. Because the inner diameter of each insert 40 is substantially the same as the diameter of the second set of openings 32, each insert 40 abuts or contacts the metallic plate 26 rather than passing through the second set of openings 32. In other embodiments, each insert 40 may be fully received within the openings 28, for example, by passing through both the first set of openings 30 and the second set of openings 32.

[0030] Each insert 40 may be in the form of a cylindrical bearing, for example. Each insert 40 may be formed from a material that can smoothly slide against the metal threaded insert 34, for example, a polymer such as high-density polyethylene or nylon. Each insert 40 also serves to protect the strikeable member 16 from wear due to friction damage caused by the strikeable member 16 sliding against the threaded insert 34 during displacement of the strikeable member 16. In embodiments in which the strikeable member 16 defines a single opening 28 and the support member 12 includes a single threaded insert 34, the single insert 40 is at least partially received in the corresponding single opening 28 of the strikeable member 16.

[0031] Frame member 22 is attachable to support member 12 by being attachable to threaded insert 34. Frame member 22 defines a plurality of openings 42, and frame member 22 is attached to support member 12 by a plurality of fasteners 44 that are each received by threaded insert 34 through a respective opening 42 in frame member 22. Thus, frame member 22 partially covers strikeable member 16 and completely covers support member 12, as shown in FIG.

[0032] The strikeable member 16 contacts the frame member 22 when the strikeable member 16 is in the standby position 20 because the at least one biasing member 14 biases the strikeable member 16 into contact with the frame member 22. Thus, the range of movement of the strikeable member 16 is defined between the maximum biasing position of the at least one biasing member 14 attached to the support member 12 and the frame member 22. In some embodiments, the maximum distance that the strikeable member 16 can be displaced from the standby position 20 towards the support member is, for example, between about 10 millimeters and about 100 millimeters, or between about 30 millimeters and about 50 millimeters.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of biasing members 14 are attached to the support member 12 and spaced apart to define a pattern. The pattern defined by the plurality of biasing members 14 may include a series of three spaced apart rows. However, the plurality of biasing members 14 may be spaced apart to define any suitable pattern depending on the stiffness desired by a user, as described in more detail below.

[0034] In some embodiments, the multiple biasing members 14 are removably attached to the support member 12. For example, the multiple biasing members 14 may be attached to the support member 12 using fasteners (not shown). In some embodiments, the support member 12 includes locating portions (not shown) that position each of the multiple biasing members 14 on the support member 12. Each locating portion may form a pattern that aids in attaching the multiple biasing members 14 to the support member 12, with the multiple biasing members 14 spaced apart from one another to form the pattern. In some embodiments, each locating portion is in the form of a recess and is configured to receive and support each of the biasing members 14 while attached to the support member 12, for example, using fasteners.

[0035] The plurality of biasing members 14 are shown schematically as cylindrical in FIGS. 2 and 3 . However, the plurality of biasing members 14 may have any suitable configuration, as described below. In some embodiments, each biasing member 14 includes at least one cantilever spring member 15 ( FIG. 5 ). In some embodiments, each biasing member 14 includes a base portion 17 attached to the support member 12 and a plurality of cantilever spring members 15 connected to the base portion 17. In this manner, the cantilever spring members 15 are cantilevered by being supported at one end 19 by the base portion 17, and are configured to apply a biasing force to the strikeable member 16 at the other end, which is a free end 21. In other embodiments, the plurality of cantilever spring members 15 are equally spaced from one another around the base portion 17. 5, which form a flower-like shape that, when a force is applied to the biasing member 14 by the strikeable member 16, moves toward the base portion 17, expanding outward, and moves away from the base portion 17, contracting inward, returning the strikeable member 16 to the standby position 20. In some embodiments, the cantilever spring members 15 may be connected to each other to increase the overall stiffness of the biasing member 14. In some embodiments, a Froli™ flexible spring element is used as the biasing member 14. The biasing member 14 may have different structures, for example, a coil spring extending between two plates and a serpentine spring.

[0036] The quantity and stiffness of the plurality of biasing members 14, as well as the pattern formed by attaching the plurality of biasing members 14 to the support member 12, affect the type of physical feedback the user receives when striking the mirrored surface 18. Because user punching forces and desired uses of the device 10 vary widely, the configuration of the plurality of biasing members 14 can vary widely depending on the user's punching force and intended use.

[0037] The maximum distance that the strikeable member 16 can be displaced from the standby position 20 toward the support member 12 can be between about 10 millimeters and about 100 millimeters, or between about 30 millimeters and about 50 millimeters, as previously described. In some embodiments, the force required to load, compress, or extend each biasing member 14 depends on the configuration of the biasing member 14 and varies linearly with the distance the biasing member 14 is loaded, compressed, or extended, based on the spring constant of the biasing member 14. In this linear force embodiment, the combined effective spring constant of the multiple biasing members 14 can be, for example, between about 4 and about 80, or between about 8 and about 20. The device 10 can include or be compatible with multiple sets of biasing members 14, providing multiple stiffness settings to accommodate different punch forces and reasons for using the assembly 10. The multiple biasing members 14 can have spring constants outside the ranges of spring constants provided above.

[0038] Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the strikeable member 16. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the mirrored surface 18 includes a pair of spaced-apart vertical lines 46 that are positioned to serve as a guide for positioning the user's head during use. The vertical lines 46 can be spaced apart depending on the width of the user's head, which is between about 140 millimeters and about 145 millimeters. The vertical lines 46 may be engraved or embossed into the mirrored surface 18, or may be applied to the mirrored surface 18 using ink or one or more stickers. The lines 46 may be solid or dashed.

[0039] FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of the device 100, with like reference numerals indicating like features. The device 100 includes biasing members 14 in the form of coil springs 102, each mountable to one of the threaded inserts 34. The coil springs 102 are attached to the threaded inserts 34 by the threaded inserts 34 being received within the coil springs 102; in other words, each coil spring 102 is wrapped around its corresponding threaded insert 34. The force provided by the coil springs 102 to return the strikeable member 16 to the standby position varies linearly with the distance the coil springs 102 are compressed. Each coil spring 102 has a spring constant between about 1 and about 20, resulting in an effective spring constant provided by the four coil springs of between about 4 and about 80. In other embodiments, the spring rate of each coil spring 102 is between about 1 and about 10, or between about 2 and about 5, resulting in an effective spring rate between about 4 and about 40, or between about 8 and about 20. In some embodiments, the spring rate (i.e., spring rate) of the coil springs 102 may be about 0.9 N / mm. Other effective spring rates may be selected for different users. For example, a user capable of delivering stronger strikes may require a higher effective spring rate, while a user capable of delivering only weaker strikes may require a lower effective spring rate. The coil springs 102 may be formed, for example, from compression spring steel. The coil springs 102 may be right-handed, closed-end springs having about 10 coils. The length of the coil springs 102 may be, for example, about 52 mm, with an outer diameter of about 15.9 mm and a wire diameter of about 1.4 mm.

[0040] Frame 104 includes recesses 105 located in the portion of frame 104 that defines hole 38. Each recess 105 is configured to receive a washer 107 to distribute the load applied to frame 104 through threaded insert 34 when strikeable member 16 is struck.

[0041] The support member 12 includes a frame 104, which includes a pair of frame members 106 spaced apart by a pair of connecting frame members 108. The frame 104 also includes a spine member 110 disposed between the pair of spaced apart frame members 106. The frame 104 also defines an aperture 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the aperture 112 is defined by a plurality of cross members 114 connecting each of the spaced apart frame members 106 to the spine member 110. The spaced apart frame members 106, the connecting frame members 108, the spine members 110, and / or the cross members 114 can be used to attach the support member 12 to a support structure, for example, by passing fasteners therethrough. In other embodiments, only one aperture 112 may be defined by the frame 104. In some embodiments, the frame 104 is formed from plywood, while in other embodiments, the frame 104 may be formed from any suitable material, such as metal or plastic.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 104 defines mounting holes 116 to receive fasteners for attaching the frame 104 to a support structure. The mounting holes 116 are defined along three spaced horizontal sections of the frame 104, with each horizontal section being formed by two aligned cross members 114 and a portion of the spine member 110. For each horizontal section, two mounting holes 116 are provided in each of the two cross members 114 and one mounting hole 116 is provided in the portion of the spine member 110. The distance between the mounting holes 116 in the portion of the spine member 110 and each mounting hole 116 in the cross members 114 corresponds to the industry standard distance between studs in a wall frame; in embodiments where the support structure is a wall, the frame 104 can be attached to three adjacent studs, improving the stability of the device 10. For example, the distance between a portion of the mounting holes 116 on the spine member 110 and each of the two closest mounting holes 116 on the cross member 114 may be approximately 16 inches, or 406 millimeters, and the distance between a portion of the mounting holes 116 on the spine member 110 and each of the two furthest mounting holes 116 on the cross member 114 may be approximately 450 millimeters. These two distances comply with the standard stud distances of two different countries, thereby allowing the frame 104 to be manufactured in one way to suit multiple countries, improving manufacturing efficiency. Additional mounting holes 116 may be provided in the cross member 114 to comply with additional national stud spacing standards. Mounting holes 116 are also provided at the intersections of the spine member 110 and each connecting frame member 108 for additional mounting support. The mounting holes 116 may be provided in any suitable direction for attaching the frame 104 to a structure or may be omitted, requiring holes to be drilled in the frame 104 to attach the frame 104 to a structure. In other embodiments, only one mounting hole 116 may be defined by the frame 104 .

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the non-metallic member of the strikeable member 16 of the device 100 is in the form of a frame 118. The non-metallic member defines a plurality of holes 120 to reduce the mass of the strikeable member 16, facilitate displacement of the strikeable member 16, and reduce wear on the threaded insert 34. In some embodiments, the frame 118 is formed from plywood, while in other embodiments, the frame 118 may be formed from any suitable material, such as metal or plastic.

[0044] The strikeable member 16 further includes a damping member 122 that absorbs forces when the strikeable member 16 is struck. The damping member 122 is disposed between the frame 118 and the metal plate 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the damping member 122 includes a foam sheet 124. The foam sheet 124 defines a hole 126 that forms the opening 28 for at least partially receiving the insert 40. The frame 118 is adhesively attached to a first surface 128 of the foam sheet 124, and the metal plate 26 is adhesively attached to a second, opposite surface of the foam sheet 124. Thus, the strikeable member 16 includes a laminate of the frame 118, the foam sheet 124, and the metal plate 26. The damping member 122 is configured to absorb at least a portion of the striking force transmitted to the strikeable member 16. In this way, the cushioning member 122 may reduce the risk of a user injuring their hand and / or wrist while using the device 100, and may provide the user with a hitting experience that closely resembles that of hitting a heavy bag.

[0045] The device 100 further includes a damping member 132, which is disposed between the strikeable member 16 and the frame member 22 and damps the movement and / or impact caused by forces when the strikeable member 16 returns to the standby position. In other words, the damping member 132 cushions contact between the strikeable member 16 and the frame member 22 when the strikeable member 16 returns to the standby position. This allows for quiet operation of the device 100 and reduces wear on both the strikeable member 16 and the frame member 22 over time.

[0046] The damping member 132 may be a foam member. In the illustrated embodiment, the damping member 132 is provided as a foam frame or gasket 134 attached to the inside of the frame member 22, for example, with an adhesive or fasteners. The foam gasket 134 defines a notch 136 that allows a corresponding fastener 44 to pass therethrough and be received by the threaded insert 34.

[0047] 7 shows a flowchart of one embodiment of a method 200 for assembling the apparatus 10, 100. The method 200 includes attaching 202 at least one biasing member 14 to the support member 12. The method 200 further includes displaceably attaching 204 a strikeable member 16 to the support member 12, whereby the at least one biasing member 14 is disposed between the support member 12 and the strikeable member 16, the strikeable member 16 having a mirrored surface 18 and displaceable from a standby position toward the support member 12 when the mirrored surface 18 is struck. The method 200 further includes attaching 206 a stop member 23 to the support member 12, whereby the strikeable member 16 is biased toward the stop member 23 by the at least one biasing member 14 to return the strikeable member 16 to the standby position after the strikeable member 16 has been displaced.

[0048] In some embodiments, the method 200 further includes attaching the threaded insert 34 to the support member 12 with fasteners 36 through holes 38 defined by the support member 12. In some embodiments, the method 200 further includes applying the coil spring 102 over the threaded insert 34. In some embodiments, the method 200 further includes positioning the strikeable member 16 such that the threaded insert is received in the opening 28 defined by the strikeable member 16. In some embodiments, the method 200 further includes positioning the frame member 22 over the strikeable member 16. In some embodiments, the method 200 further includes applying each of the fasteners 44 to the threaded insert 34 through a corresponding opening 42 in the frame member 22. In some embodiments, the method 200 further includes attaching the apparatus 10, 100 to a support structure.

[0049] In some embodiments of the device 10, 100, the support member 12 may be omitted. In these embodiments, the remaining components of the device 10, 100 are attached to the support structure instead of the support member 12. Thus, these embodiments of the device 10, 100 include at least one biasing member 14 attachable to the support structure, a strikeable member 16 displaceably attachable to the support structure, the at least one biasing member 14 being disposed between the support structure and the strikeable member 16, the strikeable member 16 having a mirrored surface 18 and displaceable from a standby position toward the support structure when the mirrored surface 18 is struck, and a stop member 23 attachable to the support structure, the stop member 23 being biased toward the stop member 23 by the at least one biasing member 14 to return the strikeable member 16 to the standby position after the strikeable member 16 is displaced.

[0050] In embodiments of the device 10, 100 in which the support member 12 is omitted, each of the at least one guide member 34 is attachable to the support structure, and the strikeable member 16 is displaceably attachable to the support structure by each of the at least one guide member 34 being received in a corresponding at least one opening 28 in the strikeable member 16, thereby allowing the strikeable member 16 to be displaceable along each of the at least one guide member 34 via the at least one opening 28. In embodiments of the device 10, 100 in which the support member 12 is omitted, the at least one biasing member 14 is attachable to the support structure by being attachable to a corresponding at least one guide member 34 between the support structure and the strikeable member 16. In embodiments of the device 10, 100 in which the support member 12 is omitted, the stop member 23 is attachable to the support structure by being attachable to a respective one of the at least one guide member 34. The stop member 23 may be attachable to the at least one guide member 34, with at least a portion of the stop member 23 positioned further from the support structure than the strikeable member 16. In embodiments of the device 10, 100 in which the support member 12 is omitted, the stop member 23 may include a frame member 22, at least partially covering the strikeable member 16 and the at least one biasing member 14.

[0051] In use, a user stands in front of the device 10, 100 and views their own reflection in the mirrored surface 18. In use, the user strikes the mirrored surface 18 of the strikeable member 16, and in particular, the user punches the mirrored surface 18 of the strikeable member 16. The user's punch overcomes the biasing force exerted by the at least one biasing member 14 on the strikeable member 16 towards the parked position 20, displacing the strikeable member 16 from the parked position 20 towards the support member 12. The kinetic energy transferred by the user's punch is absorbed by the at least one biasing member 14, and possibly further absorbed by the support member 12. The at least one biasing member 14 biases the strikeable member 16 towards the frame member 22, returning the strikeable member 16 to the parked position 20, and the user delivers another punch.

[0052] The devices 10, 100 simultaneously provide both physical and visual feedback to allow a user to evaluate and improve one or more of their boxing skills, such as boxing technique, head movement and positioning, footwork, spatial awareness, punching power, and safe wrist angle when striking. The devices 10, 100 also require less installation space than a heavy bag because they have a smaller footprint and can be mounted to a supporting structure such as a wall. Furthermore, heavy bags must be securely mounted to a ceiling or heavy base, making them more complicated to install and move than the devices 10, 100.

[0053] Embodiments of the strikeable member 16 that include a metal plate 26 formed from stainless steel or that include polycarbonate may provide sufficient reflectivity for the mirrored surface 18 while also providing strength and durability to absorb a blow, such as a punch, without significant damage. Embodiments of the strikeable member 16 that include plywood reduce the mass of the strikeable member 16 compared to using only metal for the strikeable member 16, thereby allowing the strikeable member 16 to be displaced more easily and smoothly. Embodiments of the strikeable member 16 that include a frame 118 that defines a hole 120 further reduce the mass of the strikeable member 16.

[0054] Embodiments of the support member 12 that include plywood reduce the overall mass of the apparatus 10. Embodiments of the support member 12 that define holes 112 also reduce the overall mass of the apparatus 100. Embodiments in which the support member 12 is in the form of a frame 104 formed from plywood further reduce the overall mass of the apparatus 100. This reduction in mass may make transportation of the apparatus 10, 100 more efficient and less costly.

[0055] The detachability of the at least one biasing member 14 also provides versatility, allowing the user to select a physical feedback scheme by adjusting the quantity, pattern, and / or stiffness of the at least one biasing member 14. A pair of spaced apart vertical lines 46 on the mirrored surface 18 provides additional visual feedback regarding the user's head positioning and movement during shadow boxing.

[0056] It will be understood that the device 10, 100 may be provided as an assembled product or as an unassembled boxing training kit for assembling the device 10, 100. It will also be understood that any combination of the components shown in the various embodiments may be implemented to form the device 10, 100.

[0057] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and / or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure, and the present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. 1. A boxing training device attachable to a support structure, comprising: a support member attachable to the support structure; at least one biasing member attachable to the support member; a strikeable member displaceably attachable to the support member, the at least one biasing member being disposed between the support member and the strikeable member, the strikeable member having a mirrored surface, the strikeable member being displaceable from a standby position toward the support member when the mirrored surface is struck; a stop member attachable to the support member, wherein the strikeable member is biased toward the stop member by the at least one biasing member after the strikeable member has been displaced in order to return the strikeable member to the standby position; and A boxing training device comprising:

2. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the strikeable member defines at least one opening, and the support member includes at least one guide member that is respectively received in the at least one opening of the strikeable member, such that the strikeable member is displaceable along each of the at least one guide member through the at least one opening.

3. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the strikeable member includes at least one insert at least partially received in each of the at least one opening to facilitate smooth displacement of the strikeable member along each of the at least one guide member.

4. 4. Apparatus according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the stop member is attachable to the support member by being attachable to each of the at least one guide member.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the stop member defines at least one opening, and the stop member is attached to the support member by at least one fastener received by the at least one guide member respectively through the at least one opening in the stop member.

6. An apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the at least one biasing member is attachable to the support member by being attachable to a corresponding one of the at least one guide member.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the strikeable member contacts the stop member when the strikeable member is in the standby position.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one biasing member is removably attached to the support member.

9. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the or each at least one biasing member comprises a coil spring.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the at least one biasing member defines an effective spring constant of between about 4 and about 80.

11. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one biasing member comprises a plurality of biasing members attached to the support member and spaced apart from one another to define a pattern.

12. 12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the maximum distance the strikeable member can be displaced from the standby position towards the support member is between about 10 mm and about 100 mm.

13. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the maximum distance the strikeable member can be displaced from the standby position toward the support member is between about 30 millimeters and about 50 millimeters.

14. 14. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the mirrored surface includes a pair of spaced apart vertical lines positioned to act as a guide for positioning of a user's head during use.

15. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the strikeable member comprises a non-metallic member and a metal plate, the metal plate having or carrying the mirrored surface.

16. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the metal plate comprises stainless steel.

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the non-metallic member comprises plywood.

18. 17. The apparatus of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the non-metallic member comprises plastic.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the non-metallic member defines at least one hole.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the non-metallic member is attached to the metal plate by adhesive.

21. 21. The device of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the strikeable member further comprises a dampening member to absorb forces when the strikeable member is struck.

22. The device according to claim 21, which is dependent on any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the buffer member is disposed between the non-metallic member and the metal plate.

23. 23. The apparatus of claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the cushioning member comprises a foam sheet.

24. 24. The device of claim 23, which is dependent on claim 22, wherein the non-metallic member is attached to a first surface of the foam sheet by adhesive, and the metal plate is attached to a second, opposite surface of the foam sheet by adhesive.

25. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the support member comprises a non-metallic member.

26. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the support member defines at least one hole.

27. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the support member comprises a frame, the frame comprising a pair of spaced apart frame members and a spine member disposed between the pair of spaced apart frame members.

28. The device of any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the stop member comprises a frame member at least partially covering the support member, the strikeable member, and the at least one biasing member.

29. 29. The device of any one of claims 1 to 28, further comprising a damping member arranged between the strikeable member and the stop member to damp movement and / or impact when the strikeable member returns to the standby position.

30. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the damping member comprises a foam member.

31. 1. A method of assembling a boxing training device, comprising: attaching at least one biasing member of the device to a support member of the device; displaceably mounting a strikeable member of the device to the support member, the at least one biasing member being disposed between the support member and the strikeable member, the strikeable member having a mirrored surface, the strikeable member being displaceable from a standby position toward the support member when the mirrored surface is struck; attaching a stop member of the device to the support member, wherein after the strikeable member has been displaced, the strikeable member is biased towards the stop member by the at least one biasing member to return the strikeable member to the standby position; A method comprising:

32. 1. A boxing training device attachable to a support structure, comprising: at least one biasing member attachable to the support structure; a strikeable member displaceably mountable to the support structure, the at least one biasing member being disposed between the support structure and the strikeable member, the strikeable member having a mirrored surface, the strikeable member being displaceable from a standby position toward the support structure when the mirrored surface is struck; a stop member attachable to the support structure, wherein the strikeable member is biased toward the stop member by the at least one biasing member after the strikeable member has been displaced to return the strikeable member to the standby position; and A boxing training device comprising:

33. 33. The device of claim 32, wherein the strikeable member defines at least one opening, and the device further includes at least one guide member attachable to the support structure, the strikeable member being displaceably attachable to the support structure with the at least one guide member respectively housed in the at least one opening of the strikeable member, whereby the strikeable member is displaceable along each of the at least one guide member via the at least one opening.

34. 34. The device of claim 33, wherein the at least one biasing member is attachable to the support structure by being attachable to each of the at least one guide member between the support structure and the strikeable member.

35. 35. Apparatus according to claim 33 or claim 34, wherein the stop member is attachable to each of the at least one guide member and thereby attachable to the support structure.

36. An apparatus according to any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the stop member comprises a frame member at least partially covering the strikeable member and the at least one biasing member.

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