Swing practice tool and swing practice head component

Abstract

A swing practice tool S100 comprises: a head component 10; a first shaft member 20 provided with the head component 10 on a tip end; and a second shaft member 30 connected to at least one of the head component 10 and the first shaft member 20 and inclined with respect to the first shaft member 20 so that a distance to the first shaft member 20 is reduced toward the head component 10.

Description

Swing practice equipment and swing practice head parts

[0001] The present invention relates to a swing training device and a swing training head component.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a golf swing training device that allows a user to correct their swing form by holding the device with both hands and performing a swing motion (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] JP 2016-123468 A

[0004] However, conventional swing training devices have a configuration in which the grip portion of one hand and the grip portion of the other hand are positioned in the same plane in the toe-heel direction when the user holds the swing training device, which poses the problem of not being able to sufficiently correct the swing form.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of these points, and has as its object to provide a swing training tool and a swing training head component that can effectively correct swing form.

[0006] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a swing training tool comprising a head component, a first shaft member having the head component provided at its tip end, and a second shaft member connected to at least one of the head component and the first shaft member and provided at an angle relative to the first shaft member so that the distance to the first shaft member becomes shorter as the second shaft member moves toward the head component.

[0007] The first shaft member and the second shaft member may be arranged in an orientation such that a center line of the first shaft member and a center line of the second shaft member do not intersect in three-dimensional space.

[0008] The first shaft member may be connected to a position on a toe side of the head component, and the second shaft member may be connected to a position on a heel side of the head component.

[0009] The center of gravity of the head component may be located on the opposite side of a face surface of the head component with respect to a line connecting a connection point between the first shaft member and the head component and a connection point between the second shaft member and the head component.

[0010] The second shaft member may have a protruding portion at its base end, against which a part of the palm of the user's hand comes into contact when the user grips the second shaft member.

[0011] A portion of the first shaft member and a portion of the second shaft member may be connected to each other by a connecting member.

[0012] The connecting member may be formed in a bent shape so that a clearance gap is formed between the base end of the first shaft member and the base end of the second shaft member.

[0013] The head component may include a head body that mimics the shape of a golf club, and an attachment member that is configured to be attached to the head body and has a face surface that, when attached to the head body, is oriented in a different direction from the face surface of the head body.

[0014] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a swing practice head component comprising a shaft connection portion having a first cylindrical recess into which a first shaft member is inserted and a second cylindrical recess into which a second shaft member is inserted, the first recess and the second recess being oriented such that the center lines of the first recess and the second recess are not parallel to each other and do not intersect in three-dimensional space, and the first shaft member and the second shaft member are connected in a shape such that the distance between them becomes shorter toward the shaft connection portion.

[0015] The golf club may further include a head body coupled to the shaft connection portion, the first recess being provided at a toe side position of the head body, and the second recess being provided at a heel side position of the head body.

[0016] In a third aspect of the present invention, a swing training tool is provided, comprising a first bat and a second bat whose tip end is connected to the first bat and which is inclined relative to the first bat so that the distance to the first bat becomes shorter as the tip end approaches.

[0017] The first bat and the second bat may be arranged in an orientation such that the center line of the first bat and the center line of the second bat do not intersect in three-dimensional space, and the first bat may be formed so that the protruding length from the connection between the first bat and the second bat is shorter than the protruding length of the second bat.

[0018] The second bat may have a protruding portion at a base end thereof against which a part of the palm of the user's hand comes into contact when the user grips the second bat.

[0019] The first bat and the second bat may have different colors.

[0020] The present invention has the effect of providing a swing training tool and a swing training head component that can effectively correct a swing form.

[0021] 18. A perspective view of a swing training tool according to a first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a view of the swing training tool from various directions. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the swing training tool as seen from the viewpoint of a user gripping and using the swing training tool. FIG. 21 is a view of the swing training tool as seen from the direction in which the center line of the first shaft member extends. FIG. 22 is a view of a state in which a user grips the swing training tool. FIG. 23 is a view of a take-back state. FIG. 24 is a view of a follow-through state. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a head component. FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a modified version of the swing training tool. FIG. 27 is a perspective view of another modified version of the swing training tool. FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a still further modified version of the swing training tool. FIG. 29 is a view of an example in which the structure of the connecting portion of the shaft members is modified. FIG. 29 is a view of an example in which the number of shaft members is modified. FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a swing training tool according to a second embodiment. FIG. 22 is a six-view diagram of the swing training tool of FIG. 14. FIG. 23 is a view of a swing using the swing training tool. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a modified version of the swing training tool according to the second embodiment. FIG. 25 is a schematic view of another modified version of the swing training tool according to the second embodiment. FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the connecting member of FIG. 18. FIG. 27 is a schematic view of an example of a cross-sectional structure of the swing training tool according to the second embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a bat with a cut surface formed on the tip side of the bat. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a swing training tool of the present invention. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a swing training tool. FIG. 26 is a six-view view of a grip member. FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a grip member. FIG. 28 is a six-view view showing the swing training tool of FIG. 23 in a position different from that of FIG. 23. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a training tool kit including a long tee. FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a swing training tool with an off-center of gravity.

[0022] <First embodiment> Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a swing training device of a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a view of the swing training device viewed from various directions. Fig. 2(a) is a front view, Fig. 2(b) is a left side view, and Fig. 2(c) is a plan view. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing the swing training device as seen from the perspective of a user who grips the swing training device. Fig. 4 is a view of the swing training device as seen from the extension direction of the center line of the first shaft member.

[0023] The swing training tool of the present invention can be used not only for golf but also for practicing swings in sports such as baseball or tennis (for example, sports that involve swinging a rod-like object held with both hands), but in this embodiment, a training tool for golf is illustrated. The swing training tool S100 in Figure 2 is drawn in a position that is what is called the "standard state" for a golf club. The "standard state" refers to a state in which a golf club is placed on a horizontal plane with its head held at a predetermined lie angle and loft angle.

[0024] The swing training tool S100 is a tool for correcting the form of a golf swing. Specifically, as will be described later with reference to Figures 5 to 7, the swing training tool S100 is a training tool that can effectively correct the form of both the take-back and the follow-through by having the user grip the swing training tool S100 with both hands crossed and swinging, so that at address the user's arms are tightly pressed together and the backs of the right and left hands face each other.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the swing training tool S100 includes a head component 10, a first shaft member 20, a second shaft member 30, and a connecting member 40.

[0026] The head component 10 has a head body 11 and a shaft connection portion 15. The head body 11 is formed in a shape that resembles the head of a golf club. In this example, the head body 11 is a wood type and has a face surface 11a. The head body 11 is not limited to a wood type, and may also be an iron type.

[0027] The shaft connection portion 15 is a hosel portion provided on a part of the upper surface of the head body 11. The shaft connection portion 15 is provided so as to protrude from the upper surface of the head body 11. The shaft connection portion 15 is a portion where the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are connected.

[0028] The first shaft member 20 is a rod-shaped member. As shown in FIG. 2 , the first shaft member 20 has a distal end portion 21 and a proximal end portion 22. The first shaft member 20 extends along the direction of the center line CLa. The distal end portion 21 of the first shaft member 20 is connected to the shaft connecting portion 15. The distal end portion 21 may be fixedly connected to the shaft connecting portion 15, or may be detachably connected to the shaft connecting portion 15. The configuration in which the first shaft member 20 is detachably connected to the shaft connecting portion 15 will be described later with reference to other drawings.

[0029] As will be described later, the base end 22 of the first shaft member 20 is a portion that is gripped by a user. The base end 22 may be provided with a grip portion (not shown) made of, for example, rubber.

[0030] The second shaft member 30 is also a rod-shaped member, similar to the first shaft member 20. The second shaft member 30 has a distal end portion 31 and a proximal end portion 32, and the distal end portion 31 is connected to the shaft connecting portion 15. As will be described later, the proximal end portion 32 is the portion that is gripped by the user.

[0031] Similar to the first shaft member 20, the distal end portion 31 of the second shaft member 30 may be fixedly or detachably connected to the shaft connecting portion 15. The proximal end portion 32 may be provided with a grip portion (not shown), for example, made of rubber.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the second shaft member 30 is disposed at an angle relative to the first shaft member 20. Specifically, when the swing training device S100 is viewed from the side (the toe side in the toe-heel direction) as shown in FIG. 2( b), the second shaft member 30 is positioned such that the first shaft member 20, the second shaft member 30, and the connecting member 40 form a triangle. The base end 22 of the first shaft member 20 and the base end 32 of the second shaft member 30 are sufficiently spaced apart so that a user can grip the first shaft member 20 with one hand and the second shaft member 30 with the other (see FIG. 5 ). The length between the base end 22 of the first shaft member 20 and the base end 32 of the second shaft member 30 is, for example, 10 cm or more, 15 cm or more, or 20 cm or more. This sufficient distance between the two shaft members allows the user to comfortably grip each shaft member with their hands crossed, as shown in FIG. 5 .

[0033] The second shaft member 30 is inclined relative to the first shaft member 20 so that the distance to the first shaft member 20 becomes shorter as it approaches the head component 10 (in other words, so that the length between the shaft members becomes longer as it moves away from the head component 10). Here, "the distance becomes shorter" means that the distance between the cross section of the first shaft member 20 and the cross section of the second shaft member 30 in a plane S perpendicular to the center line CLa of the first shaft member 20 becomes shorter, as shown in FIG. 2(b).

[0034] The first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 may be arranged so that the center line CLa of the first shaft member 20 and the center line CLb of the second shaft member 30 intersect, but in this embodiment, the center lines CLa and CLb are oriented so that they do not intersect in three-dimensional space (the center line is not limited to a line segment existing inside a member, but also means a straight line passing through that line segment). As shown in Fig. 4, the first shaft member 20 is arranged so that its center line CLa extends on a first plane Sa, and the second shaft member 30 is arranged so that its center line CLb extends on a second plane Sb that is different from the first plane Sa.

[0035] In this embodiment, the first shaft member 20 is connected to a position on the toe side of the shaft connecting portion 15. The second shaft member 30 is connected to a position on the heel side of the shaft connecting portion 15. In the example of Fig. 4, the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are disposed such that the center lines of the shaft members are positioned on a reference line L extending in the toe-heel direction.

[0036] Referring again to FIG. 2 , the connecting member 40 is a member that connects the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30. In this example, the connecting member 40 connects the base end portion 22 of the first shaft member 20 and the base end portion 32 of the second shaft member 30. In this embodiment, the connecting member 40 is a member that extends linearly, but the connecting member 40 is not limited to a particular shape. The connecting member 40 may connect a portion of the first shaft member 20 other than the base end portion 22 to a portion of the second shaft member 30 other than the base end portion 32. As an example, a member having a shape resembling a bent rod-shaped member may be employed, which includes a portion corresponding to the first shaft member 20, a portion corresponding to the second shaft member 30, and a portion corresponding to the connecting member 40.

[0037] 4 , in this embodiment, the center of gravity G of the head component 10 is located on the opposite side of the face surface 11a with respect to a reference line L, which is a straight line connecting the connection point between the first shaft member 20 and the head component 10 and the connection point between the second shaft member 30 and the head component 10. In other words, the center of gravity G is located rearward of the shaft connection portion 15.

[0038] (Method of using the swing training tool S100) Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a state in which a user grips the swing training tool. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a state of take-back. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a state of follow-through. The following illustrates an example of a right-handed hitter. The right hand corresponds to the user's dominant hand, and the left hand corresponds to the hand opposite to the dominant hand.

[0039] In this context, "dominant hand" refers to the hand that is dominant when swinging. For example, if you write with your left hand but swing a golf club with your right hand, your "dominant hand" would be your right hand.

[0040] 5, the user crosses both hands (with the right hand on top as seen from the user) and grips the first shaft member 20 with the right hand and the second shaft member 30 with the left hand. By gripping the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 with the hands crossed in this way, the user can easily achieve a good form in the address position, with both sides closed and the elbow fossa facing forward and both arms relaxed.

[0041] Next, as shown in Figure 6, the user swings up the swing training tool S100 with both hands crossed. When the user grips the swing training tool S100, the back of the right hand and the back of the left hand face each other. By swinging up the swing training tool S100 with the intention of lifting the right hand with the left hand, the user can close their right armpit and achieve a good form that prevents overswing.

[0042] Next, after impact, the user swings with the left hand as if lifting the right hand, as shown in Figure 7. This allows the user to suppress chicken wings by closing the left armpit, and creates a good form that leads to a finish with the right elbow extended and the left shoulder blade lowered.

[0043] (Effects of the swing training tool S100) As described above, according to the swing training tool S100 of this embodiment, the user can effectively correct their swing form by holding the swing training tool S100 with both hands crossed and swinging.

[0044] In particular, by preventing overuse of both hands, it is possible to correct a swing that is balanced with a body turn as the main focus, as well as a good swing plane and good arm rotation form. Beginners and junior golfers in particular can expect to develop the right muscles and motor skills by starting practice with this training device, which will ultimately promote efficient growth and improvement.

[0045] Correcting swing form with both hands crossed can also be attempted with a tool in which the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are arranged parallel to each other. However, with a parallel configuration of the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30, swinging with both hands crossed is likely to place strain on the wrist. In contrast, in the swing training tool S100 of this embodiment, the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are arranged so that they approach each other toward the distal end, reducing strain on the wrist. In light of this, it is sufficient that the portions of the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 that are gripped by the user (the grip portions, if configured with grips) are configured so that the centerlines of each portion do not intersect, for example, three-dimensionally. The first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 do not necessarily have to be straight rod-shaped members; the portions extending from the grip portions may be curved.

[0046] Furthermore, in the configuration of this embodiment, the center lines CLa and CLb of the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are oriented so as not to intersect in three-dimensional space. This configuration allows the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 to be positioned in a way that facilitates the formation of both arms when swinging in a desirable posture. This facilitates swing correction. In particular, when the first shaft member 20 is connected at a toe-side position and the second shaft member 30 is connected at a heel-side position, as shown in FIG. 4, the first shaft member 20 is relatively closer to the toe, which provides the advantage of making it easier to grip the swing training device S100 in the grip shown in FIG. 5.

[0047] In addition, in the configuration of this embodiment, the center of gravity G of the head component 10 is located rearward of the reference line L, as shown in Figure 4. This configuration in which the center of gravity is offset from the reference line L has the effect of allowing the user to swing the swing training tool S100 with the same sensation as if swinging an actual golf club head.

[0048] In the present invention, the connecting member 40 may not be present and the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 may not be connected to each other, but when the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are connected by the connecting member 40 as in this embodiment, the rigidity of the assembly formed by the first shaft member 20, the second shaft member 30 and the connecting member 40 is improved, and the swing training tool S100 is less likely to deform or break.

[0049] <Modification 1> Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a head component 10A. The head component 10A is configured so that a first shaft member 20 and a second shaft member 30 are removably connected. As with the first embodiment, the head component 10A has a head main body 11 and a shaft connecting portion 15. A first recess 16a and a second recess 16b are formed in the shaft connecting portion 15.

[0050] The first recess 16a is a recess into which the first shaft member 20 is inserted. The first recess 16a is, for example, a cylindrical recess. The inner surface of the first recess 16a is formed with, for example, a female thread portion into which a male thread portion formed on the first shaft member 20 is screwed. The first recess 16a is formed to extend in the same direction as the center line CLa of the first shaft member 20. For example, the first recess 16a is provided at a position closer to the toe side than the second recess 16b.

[0051] The second recess 16b has a structure similar to that of the first recess 16a, except that the second recess 16b differs in position and extending direction from the first recess 16a. The second recess 16b is a recess into which the second shaft member 30 is inserted, and is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The inner surface of the second recess 16b is formed with a female thread portion into which a male thread portion formed at the tip of the second shaft member 30 is screwed. The second recess 16b is formed to extend in the same direction as the center line CLa of the second shaft member 30.

[0052] The swing training tool S100 of the first embodiment can be produced by connecting the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 to the head component 10A configured as described above and connecting the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 with the connecting member 40. The swing training tool S100 may be configured so that some or all of the head component 10A, the first shaft member 20, the second shaft member 30, and the connecting member 40 can be removed or disassembled. Making some or all of the components of the swing training tool S100 removable or disassembled makes it easier to transport without taking up too much space.

[0053] The connection of the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 to the shaft connecting portion 15 is not limited to screw connection. The first shaft member 20, the second shaft member 30, and the connecting member 40 may be connected to the head component 10 as an integrally formed part. The connection between the shaft member and the shaft connecting portion 15 may be, for example, by connecting a convex portion formed on the shaft connecting portion 15 with a concave portion formed on the shaft member.

[0054] According to the swing practice head part 10A shown in Figure 8, the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are removable, so the user can connect a shaft member of their preferred length to the head part 10A and adjust the length of the shaft member.

[0055] <Modification 2> Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a modification of the swing training tool. As shown in Fig. 9, a protruding portion 35 may be provided at the base end 32 of the second shaft member 30. The protruding portion 35 is a portion against which a part of the palm of the user's hand comes into contact when the user grips the second shaft member 30. The protruding portion 35 has a surface against which a part of the palm of the user's hand comes into contact when the user grips the second shaft member 30. In this example, the protruding portion 35 is provided at the connection portion between the second shaft member 30 and the connecting member 40 and is fixed to both members. The protruding portion 35 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 9, and may be fixed only to the second shaft member 30 and formed to protrude toward the first shaft member 20.

[0056] With such a protruding portion 35, when the user grips the base end 32 of the second shaft member 30, part of the palm of the hand comes into contact with the protruding portion 35, thereby defining the position of the hand. This allows the user to grip the swing training tool stably and in a good orientation.

[0057] The shape of the protruding portion 35 is not limited to that shown in Figure 9, and the ridge portion may be formed into a curved surface, or the connection portion between the protruding portion 35 and another member may be formed into a curved surface.

[0058] 10 is a perspective view showing another modification of the swing training tool S100. This is not a significant problem if the overall weight of the swing training tool S100 is relatively light, but if the overall weight of the swing training tool S100 is relatively heavy, there is a risk that the connecting member 40 (see FIG. 2) will hit part of the arm gripping the swing training tool S100 during a swing.

[0059] 10, the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are connected by a connecting member 40A. The connecting member 40A is formed in a bent shape, and more specifically, is formed in a shape that forms a clearance gap Sc between the base end 22 of the first shaft member 20 and the base end 32 of the second shaft member 30.

[0060] 10, the protruding portion 35 as shown in FIG. 9 may be provided at the base end portion 32 of the second shaft member 30. In the configuration shown in FIG.

[0061] <Modification 4> Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing yet another modification of the swing training tool. In a golf swing, the ideal swing form may differ depending on the type and shape of the club used. Therefore, the head component 10B of the swing training tool S102 in Fig. 11 is configured so that the attachment member 12 can be removably attached to the head main body 11.

[0062] The head body 11 has a shape that imitates the shape of a golf club and has, for example, a face surface 11 a. The attachment member 12 has, for example, a face surface 12 a that faces in a different direction from the face surface 11 a of the head body 11 when the attachment member 12 is attached to the head body 11.

[0063] As shown in Figure 11, the configuration in which the shape of the head part 10 of the swing training tool can be adjusted by attaching the attachment member 12 allows the user to effectively practice swings according to the type and shape of the club.

[0064] 11 shows an example in which the loft angles of the face surfaces are different, the attachment member 12 may have a face surface with a different face angle than the face surface 11a of the head main body 11. The head main body 11 may not have a face surface 11a, but may simply have an attachment surface to which the attachment member 12 is attached. The attachment member 12 is not limited to being attached to the face surface 11a or the front surface of the head main body 11, but may be attached to any part of the head main body 11, or may be attached so as to cover the head main body 11. The attachment member 12 may be attached to adjust the center of gravity.

[0065] <Modification 5> Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example in which the structure of the connecting portion of the shaft members is modified. As shown in Figure 12(a) , in the swing training tool of the present invention, it is not necessary for both the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 to be connected to the head component 10. In this example, the second shaft member 30 is connected to a portion of the first shaft member 20. Alternatively, the first shaft member 20 may be connected to a portion of the second shaft member 30, and the second shaft member 30 may be connected to the head component 10.

[0066] 12(b), it is sufficient that the head component 10 is provided on the distal end side of the first shaft member 20, and the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 do not need to be directly coupled to the head component 10. In other words, the first shaft member 20 and / or the second shaft member 30 may be coupled to the head component 10 via an intermediate member.

[0067] In this example, the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 are connected to the head component 10 via a connecting member 18 that is provided separately from the head component 10. Only one connecting member 18 may be provided for one head component 10. Alternatively, multiple connecting members 18 may be provided for one head component 10 (for example, two connecting members 18 may be provided for one head component 10: one connecting member 18 for connecting the first shaft member 20 to the head component 10 and one connecting member 18 for connecting the second shaft member 30 to the head component 10). The angle of one or more connecting members 18 (the direction in which the connecting member 18 protrudes relative to the head component 10) may be adjustable. With this configuration, the direction of the shaft member can be adjusted.

[0068] <Modification 6> Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example in which the number of shaft members is changed. The swing training tool shown in Figure 13(a) includes a third shaft member 30B in addition to a first shaft member 20 and a second shaft member 30A. The second shaft member 30A corresponds to the second shaft member 30 of the first embodiment. The third shaft member 30B is arranged at an angle such that the distance to the first shaft member 20 and the distance to the second shaft member 30A decrease toward the head component 10. With this configuration, a user can practice swinging by gripping the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30A, or by gripping the first shaft member 20 and the third shaft member 30B, for example.

[0069] 13(b), the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30 may be detachable from the shaft connecting portion 15. As an example, three recesses may be formed in the shaft connecting portion 15, and, for example, the second shaft member 30A may be removed from a predetermined recess of the shaft connecting portion 15 and reinserted into another recess, so that the second shaft member functions as the third shaft member 30B. The connecting member 40 may be configured to be attachable to the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30A, and also to the first shaft member 20 and the third shaft member 30B.

[0070] In the example of Fig. 13(a), the third shaft member 30B is provided so as to incline from the head component 10 toward the front side of the head component 10, and the second shaft member 30A is provided so as to incline from the head component 10 toward the rear side of the head component 10, with the first shaft member 20 extending between these shaft members. As illustrated in Fig. 2(b), the swing training device S100 of the first embodiment is provided so as to be located at positions corresponding to the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30A in Fig. 13(a), but the swing training device of the present invention may be provided so that one shaft member is located at a position similar to the second shaft member 30A and the other shaft member is located at a position similar to the third shaft member 30B.

[0071] The swing training device of the present invention may be constructed with components made of the same or similar materials as those of a typical golf club. For example, a portion, a majority (e.g., 70% by mass or more, the same applies below), or all of the head component 10 may be made of metal (titanium alloy, steel, aluminum, tungsten), wood, carbon, etc. A portion, a majority, or all of the shaft components (e.g., the first shaft component 20 and the second shaft component 30) may be made of steel, carbon, aramid fiber, etc. The swing training device of the present invention may be configured to be capable of hitting a real golf ball. On the other hand, the swing training device of the present invention may be constructed with materials significantly different from those of a real golf club. For example, a portion, a majority, or all of the head component 10 or the shaft component may be made of a plastic material (e.g., a polyolefin such as polyethylene) or a rubber material. A portion, a majority, or all of the head component 10 or the shaft component may be made of a material that is more flexible than that of a typical golf club. The head component 10 and a portion, most, or all of the shaft component may be lighter (e.g., 20 g or more but less than 250 g), equivalent (e.g., 250 g or more but less than 500 g), or heavy (e.g., more than 500 g but less than 1500 g) than a typical golf club. Being more flexible or lighter than a typical golf club allows swing practice while reducing the risk of accidents, even in a relatively small space. Furthermore, being heavier than a typical golf club makes it easier to get a feel for the swing (e.g., even when the swing training tool is shortened for ease of handling). Furthermore, the swing training tool of the present invention may be the same length as a typical golf club, or may be longer or shorter. For example, the length of the longest part of the swing training tool may be 30 cm to 120 cm, or 30 cm to 90 cm. In this specification, A to B cm means A cm or more and B cm or less.

[0072] <Second Embodiment> In the above embodiment, a golf swing training tool has been described, but the swing training tool of the present invention may also be used to correct swing form in baseball or softball. Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a swing training tool of the second embodiment. Fig. 15 is a six-view diagram of the swing training tool of Fig. 14. Specifically, Fig. 15(a) is a front view, Fig. 15(b) is a left side view, Fig. 15(c) is a right side view, Fig. 15(d) is a plan view, Fig. 15(e) is a bottom view, and Fig. 15(f) is a rear view. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a swing using the swing training tool S200.

[0073] This swing training tool S200 includes a first bat 210 and a second bat 220. The first bat 210 and the second bat 220 are connected to each other in such a manner that their tip portions are integrated. As a method for connecting the first bat 210 and the second bat 220, for example, the shape of the cross section of the swing training tool (a cross section of the head portion of the swing training tool taken on a plane perpendicular to the length direction of the swing training tool) may be two circles joined together, or an oval or elliptical shape.

[0074] First bat 210 is a rod-shaped member having a head portion 211 and a grip portion 212. Similarly, second bat 220 also has a head portion 221 and a grip portion 222.

[0075] 15(a), the first butt 210 and the second butt 220 are oriented so as to intersect with each other in a front view. Specifically, the first butt 210 and the second butt 220 are tilted relative to each other so that the distance between them (meaning the length between the center line of one butt and the center line of the other butt in a plane perpendicular to the center line of one butt) becomes shorter toward the tip side. In this embodiment, the center line CLa of the first butt 210 and the center line CLa of the second butt 220 are arranged so as not to intersect three-dimensionally, as in the first embodiment.

[0076] The first bat 210 and the second bat 220 may have the same length, but in this example, the first bat 210 is formed shorter than the second bat 220. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15 , the first bat 210 is configured such that the protruding length d1 from the connection between the first bat 210 and the second bat 220 is shorter than the protruding length d2 of the second bat. In one example, the protruding length d1 may be 5 cm or more shorter, or 10 cm or more shorter than the protruding length d2 of the second bat. The effects of this configuration will be described later in conjunction with an explanation of how to use the swing training tool S200.

[0077] (Method of Using the Swing Training Tool S200) A method of using the swing training tool S200 will be described below using a right-handed user as an example. As shown in Figure 16, the user holds the first bat 210 in their right hand and the second bat 220 in their left hand with their hands crossed (the right hand is on top as seen from the user). By holding the swing training tool S200 with their hands crossed in this way, the user can develop a good form with their arms closed.

[0078] From the top of the swing to impact, the user moves the swing training tool S200 with the intention that the second bat 220 gripped in the left hand will be in front of the swing direction. In a baseball swing (for a right-handed batter), it is said that it is good to swing the bat with the intention that the back of the left hand is slightly raised relative to the arm (the back of the left hand is not extended straight from the arm). In this regard, according to the configuration of this embodiment, if the user grips the swing training tool S200 with both hands crossed, this hand position can be naturally formed while ensuring a clear path for the right hand, thereby effectively correcting the swing form.

[0079] Then, from just before impact to the follow-through, the user moves the swing training tool S200 with the intention that the first bat 210 gripped in the right hand will be in front of the swing direction. By moving the swing training tool S200 with the image of the right hand overtaking the left hand, the bat head is prevented from coming out late, and it becomes possible to hit the ball from a position in front of the ball's moving direction.

[0080] (Effects of the Swing Training Tool S200) As described above, with the swing training tool S100 of this embodiment, the user can grip the swing training tool S200 with both hands crossed and swing, thereby achieving a posture in which the user grips the bat with both hands clasped together. This allows for good correction of swing form. Furthermore, by moving the swing training tool S200 while being aware of the front-to-back relationship between the first bat 210 and the second bat 220, the user can achieve a good swing form in which the right hand appears to overtake the left hand.

[0081] In swing training tool S200, first bat 210 is formed to be shorter than second bat 220. Therefore, when a user grips first bat with their dominant hand (here, the right hand) and grips second bat 220 with their non-dominant hand (here, the left hand) with their hands crossed so that the dominant hand is on top, first bat 210 is less likely to interfere with the left hand.

[0082] <Variation 1> While an example configuration that can be used for practicing baseball or softball swings has been described above with reference to Figure 16, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration. For example, a protruding portion may be provided at the base end of second bat 220. This protruding portion is provided, for example, so as to protrude toward first bat 210, and is a portion that comes into contact with part of the palm of the user when gripping the second bat.

[0083] Furthermore, the color of first bat 210 may be different from the color of second bat 220. By having the bats in different colors in this way, the user can practice swinging well while visually being aware of the movement of the bat.

[0084] <Modification 2> Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a modification of the swing training tool of the second embodiment. In addition to the shapes shown in Figures 14 and 15, the swing training tool according to the present invention may also have a shape shown in Figure 17, for example. The swing training tool S201 of Figure 17 includes a first bat 210, a second bat 220, and a connecting portion 230. The first bat 210 and the second bat 220 are similar to those of the swing training tool S200 of Figures 14 and 15, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0085] Connecting portion 230 is a member that secures a tip-end portion of first bat 210 and a tip-end portion of second bat 220 to each other. Specifically, connecting portion 230 has surface 231 that connects the outer peripheral surface of the tip-end portion of first bat 210 and the outer peripheral surface of the tip-end portion of second bat 220. The formation of such surface 231 makes it easier for the user to be aware of the direction in which swing training tool S201 is facing during a swing, thereby achieving the effect of being able to effectively correct swing form. Connecting portion 230 may be, for example, a tape or sheet. The adhesiveness of such a tape or sheet may assist in the connection between first bat 210 and second bat 220.

[0086] In the present invention, it is not essential that the first bat 210, the second bat 220, and the connecting portion 230 are separate components. The swing training device may be provided as a single, integrated component in which these components are combined into one. For example, the swing training device may be integrally formed by blow molding or a three-dimensional printer.

[0087] <Variation 3> Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing another variation of the swing training device of the second embodiment. Figure 19 is a perspective view of the connecting member of Figure 18. Note that the shapes of the connecting members differ between Figures 18 and 19, but this is not an essential difference in the present invention. The swing training device of Figure 18 has a connecting member 230A that connects two bats. As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the connecting member 230A has a first recess 230a that is shaped to fit the outer peripheral surface of the first bat 210 and that receives the first bat 210, and a second recess 230b that is shaped to fit the outer peripheral surface of the second bat 220 and that receives the second bat 220.

[0088] The extension direction L1 of the first recess 230a and the extension direction L2 of the second recess 230b are oriented so as not to intersect with each other three-dimensionally, so that the center lines CLa and CLb of the bats fixed to each recess are oriented as shown in Figure 15.

[0089] By fastening two bats to this connecting member 230A, it is possible to construct a swing training device as shown in Figure 15, in which the first bat and the second bat extend in different directions. Instead of using only one connecting member 230A to fasten the two bats, for example, a first connecting member 230A may be provided near the tip of the bat and a second connecting member 230A may be provided in the middle of the bat in the longitudinal direction.

[0090] <Modification 4> Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the cross-sectional structure of a swing training tool according to the second embodiment. In the example of Figure 20, a joint surface 210a is formed on a portion of first bat 210, and a joint surface 220a is also formed on a portion of second bat 220. First bat 210 and second bat 220 are fixed together with their joint surfaces facing each other.

[0091] <Modification 5> Figure 21 is a perspective view showing a modification of the connecting member. The connecting member 230B in Figure 21 has a first retaining portion 235 and a second retaining portion 236. The first retaining portion 235 has a first hole 235a through which a bat is inserted. The second retaining portion 236 has a second hole 235b through which another bat is inserted. The first hole 235a and the second hole 236a extend in directions that do not intersect with each other in three dimensions, so that the center lines CLa and CLb of the bat inserted into the respective holes are oriented as shown in Figure 15. As an example, the first retaining portion 235 and the second retaining portion 236 may be configured so that the central axes of the cylindrical first hole 235a and the cylindrical second hole 236a do not intersect with each other in three dimensions.

[0092] By inserting and fixing two bats into such a connecting member 230B, a swing training tool as shown in FIG. 15 can be constructed in which the first bat and the second bat extend in different directions.

[0093] The first bat and / or the second bat in the swing training device S200 may be made of the same or similar material as a regular bat used in a baseball or softball game. For example, a portion, a majority, or all of the first bat and / or the second bat may be made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, wood, or the like. The swing training device S200 may be configured to be capable of hitting a baseball or softball. On the other hand, the swing training device S200 may be made of a material significantly different from a regular bat used in a baseball or softball game. For example, a portion, a majority, or all of the first bat and / or the second bat may be made of a plastic material (e.g., a polyolefin such as polyethylene) or a rubber material. A portion, a majority, or all of the first bat and / or the second bat may be more flexible than a regular bat. The first and second bats may be lighter (e.g., 20 g or more but less than 400 g) or the same weight (e.g., 400 g or more but less than 1 kg) as a regular bat (a combination of a relatively long bat and a relatively short bat), or may be heavier (e.g., more than 1 kg but less than 20 kg). Being more flexible or lighter than a regular bat allows for swing practice with reduced risk of accidents, even in a relatively small space. Furthermore, being heavier than a regular bat makes it easier to get a feel for the swing (e.g., even when the swing training tool is shortened for ease of handling). Furthermore, the swing training tool S200 of the present invention may be the same length as a regular bat, or may be longer or shorter than that, e.g., 20 cm to 200 cm, or 30 cm to 60 cm.

[0094] <Single Bat Configuration> Figure 22 shows an example of a bat with a cut surface formed on the tip end portion of the bat. Figure 22(a) is a front view, and Figure 22(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A. Bat 240 in Figure 22 is for right-handed hitters, and has cut surface 241 formed on the tip end portion. In addition, bat 240 has an overhang 245 formed on the base end. Overhang 245 is a structural part that functions similarly to overhang 35 in Figure 9, and is against which part of the user's left hand comes into contact when gripping the bat.

[0095] 22B, the cut surface 241 is formed on the opposite side (the right side in the figure) from the side where the overhang portion 245 is provided. Specifically, in this example, the cut surface 241 is formed so as to be inclined at an angle of approximately 45° with respect to the overhang portion 245 (specifically, the plane on which the overhang portion 245 extends).

[0096] With a configuration in which cut surface 241 is formed in this manner, the user can effectively correct their swing form by swinging bat 240 while being conscious of the orientation of cut surface 241. Furthermore, because overhanging portion 245 is formed in the positional relationship shown in Figure 22(b) relative to cut surface 241, in the case of a right-handed user, cut surface 241 naturally faces toward the user's face when gripping bat 240, eliminating the need for the user to re-grip bat 240 and fine-tune the orientation of cut surface 241.

[0097] (Configuration example of golf swing training tool) Figure 23 is a diagram of one configuration example of a swing training tool of the present invention. Figure 23(a) is a front view of the swing training tool, Figure 23(b) is a left side view, and Figure 23(c) is a plan view. Figure 24 is a perspective view of the swing training tool. Figure 25 is a six-view diagram of a grip member. In Figure 25, Figure 25(a) is a front view, Figure 25(b) is a left side view, Figure 25(c) is a right side view, Figure 25(d) is a plan view, Figure 25(e) is a bottom view, and Figure 25(f) is a rear view. Figure 26 is a perspective view of the grip member. Figure 27 is a six-view diagram showing the swing training tool of Figure 23 in a different position from that of Figure 23. In Fig. 27, Fig. 27(a) is a front view, Fig. 27(b) is a left side view, Fig. 27(c) is a right side view, Fig. 27(d) is a plan view, Fig. 27(e) is a bottom view, and Fig. 27(f) is a rear view. Figs. 23 to 27 are drawings based on a three-dimensional model of the swing training tool. In each figure, lines indicating the boundaries between surfaces are shown.

[0098] 23 includes a head component 110, a first shaft member 120, a second shaft member 130, and a grip member 150. The head component 110, the first shaft member 120, and the second shaft member 130 correspond to the head component 10, the first shaft member 20, and the second shaft member 30 of the first embodiment, respectively. The swing training component S103 has basically the same configuration as the swing training component S100, except that the grip member 150 is provided and the shape of the head component 110 is changed.

[0099] The head component 110 has a shaft connection portion 115 to which the first shaft member 120 and the second shaft member 130 are connected.

[0100] Grip member 150 may be made of resin or rubber, but is made of resin in one example. In this example, grip member 150 is formed as a single unit. As shown in FIG. 26 , grip member 150 has a first grip portion 152, a second grip portion 153, a connecting portion 154, and a protruding portion 155.

[0101] The first grip portion 152 is a straight portion that extends in the extension direction of the first shaft member 120 ( FIG. 23 ). The second grip portion 153 is also a straight portion that extends in the extension direction of the second shaft member 130. In this example, the first grip portion 152 is longer than the second grip portion 153. The thicknesses of the first grip portion 152 and the second grip portion 153 are, for example, longer than the diameters of both the first shaft member 120 and the second shaft member 130. The first grip portion 152 has a cylindrical shape, and a shaft member is inserted from an opening at the end. The second grip portion 153 has a similar configuration.

[0102] The connecting portion 154 is a portion that connects the first grip portion 152 and the second grip portion 153. Since the first grip portion 152 and the second grip portion 153 extend in directions that do not intersect with each other three-dimensionally, the connecting portion 154 that connects the two portions is formed in a curved shape, as can be seen from the six-sided views of Figures 24 and 25 .

[0103] Protruding portion 155 is provided at the intersection of connecting portion 154 and second grip portion 153. Protruding portion 155 includes a plate-like portion 155a formed to protrude toward first grip portion 152. Edge 155e of this plate-like portion 155a extends at an angle relative to both the extension direction of second grip portion 153 and the extension direction of connecting portion 154.

[0104] The swing training tool S103 shown in Figures 23 to 27 can also provide the same swing training effect as the swing training tool S100 of the above-mentioned embodiment, and since it is provided with a grip member 150, the user can easily hold the swing training tool S103 and can practice effectively.

[0105] (Practice equipment kit including a long tee) Figure 28 is a diagram showing a practice equipment kit including a long tee. The long tee 70 has a tubular portion 71 and a base portion 72. The tubular portion 71 is a tubular member and is formed from a soft material such as rubber or plastic. Specifically, the tubular portion 71 is cylindrical. A practice ball B is placed on the upper end of the tubular portion 71. The practice ball B is lighter than a golf ball. The practice ball B is made of, for example, plastic, rubber, sponge, or urethane foam.

[0106] The base 72 is a member that supports the cylindrical portion 71. The base 72 is made of a relatively heavy material so that the long tee 70 will not tip over when the user hits the practice ball B with the swing training tool S100. The height of the long tee 70 (the height from the floor to the top of the cylindrical portion 71 when the long tee 70 is placed on the floor) is 10 cm or more, 20 cm or more, or 30 cm or more. The height of the long tee 70 is also 80 cm or less, 70 cm or less, or 60 cm or less.

[0107] A practice kit according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a swing practice tool S100, a long tee 70, and a practice ball B. With this practice tool kit, a user can practice their swing by placing the practice ball B on the long tee 70 installed indoors, for example, and hitting the practice ball B with the swing practice tool S100. With this configuration, a better practice effect can be expected compared to practicing using the swing practice tool S100 alone, because the user actually hits the practice ball B. Note that while FIG. 28 illustrates the swing practice tool S100, any swing practice tool according to the present invention may be used and is not limited to the swing practice tool S100.

[0108] (Configuration Example of Swing Training Tool with Off-Center of Gravity) Figure 29 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a swing training tool with an off-center of gravity. One of the features of the swing training tool according to the present invention is that the user can practice swinging with their hands crossed, as shown in Figure 5. In view of this feature, the part gripped by the user may have a positional relationship similar to that between the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30, or the first grip portion 152 and the second grip portion 153, for example.

[0109] The training tool of FIG. 29 comprises a first shaft member 20-1, a second shaft member 30-1, a first grip 50A, a second grip 50B, and a head body 10-1.

[0110] The first shaft member 20-1 extending from the first grip 50A and the second shaft member 30-1 extending from the second grip 50B are both curved rod-shaped members.

[0111] The head body 10-1 is provided at the tip of the first shaft member 20-1 and the second shaft member 30-1. Specifically, the head body 10-1 is located at a position offset from both the extending direction of the first grip 50A and the extending direction of the second grip 50B. In the example of Figure 29, the head body 10-1 has the shape of a golf club head, but the shape of the head body 10-1 is arbitrary.

[0112] Even with this configuration in which the head body 10-1 is provided at the tip of the curved first shaft member 20-1 and second shaft member 30-1, the first grip 50A and second grip 50B are positioned in the same positional relationship as the first shaft member 20 and the second shaft member 30, or the first grip portion 152 and the second grip portion 153, so the user can practice swinging with their hands crossed as shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, in such a swing training tool with an unbalanced center of gravity, for example, in the case of an undesirable swing, the weight of the head body 10-1 can be appropriately adjusted so that the swing training tool has an unnatural orientation or movement, making it easier for the user to learn the correct swing.

[0113] 29, the first grip 50A and the second grip 50B are not connected to each other, but the first grip 50A and the second grip 50B may be connected to each other by a connecting member. Grip members 150 such as those shown in FIG. 23 may be attached to the first shaft member 20-1 and the second shaft member 30-1.

[0114] This application also discloses the designs of the swing training device shown in Figures 23 to 27. Specifically, this application discloses the overall design of the swing training device, discloses a partial design of the swing training device in which only the head portion is shown in dashed lines and the rest is shown in solid lines, discloses a partial design of the swing training device in which both shaft members and the head portion are shown in dashed lines and the rest is shown in solid lines, and discloses a design of a grip member.

[0115] The present invention has been described above using embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention. For example, all or part of the device can be configured by functionally or physically distributing or integrating in any unit. Furthermore, new embodiments resulting from any combination of multiple embodiments are also included in the embodiments of the present invention. The effects of the new embodiments resulting from the combination also have the effects of the original embodiments.

[0116] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Head component 10-1 Head body 11 Head main body 11a Face surface 12 Attachment member 12a Face surface 15 Shaft connection portion 16a First recess 16b Second recess 18 Connection member 20, 20-1 First shaft member 21 Tip portion 22 Base end portion 30, 30-1 Second shaft member 31 Tip portion 32 Base end portion 35 Protruding portion 40 Connecting member 50A First grip 50B Second grip 70 Long tee 71 Cylindrical portion 72 Base portion 110 Head component 115 Shaft connection portion 120 First shaft member 130 Second shaft member 150 Grip member 152 First grip portion 153 Second grip portion 154 Connecting portion 155 Protruding portion 155a Portion 155e Edge 210 First bat 211 Head portion 212 Grip portion 220 Second bat 221 Head portion 222 Grip portion 230 Connecting portion 230A Connecting member 230B Connecting member 230a First recess 230b Second recess 231 Surface 235 First holding portion 236 Second holding portion 240 Bat 241 Cut surface 245 Protruding portion B Practice ball S100 Swing training tool Sa First surface Sb Second surface Sc Relief portion

Claims

1. A swing training tool comprising: a head component; a first shaft member having the head component provided at a tip end thereof; and a second shaft member connected to at least one of the head component or the first shaft member, and provided at an angle relative to the first shaft member so that the distance to the first shaft member becomes shorter toward the head component.

2. The swing training device as described in claim 1, wherein the first shaft member and the second shaft member are oriented such that a center line of the first shaft member and a center line of the second shaft member do not intersect in three-dimensional space.

3. A swing training device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the first shaft member is connected to a position on the toe side of the head component, and the second shaft member is connected to a position on the heel side of the head component.

4. The swing training tool according to claim 3, wherein the center of gravity of the head component is on the opposite side of the face surface of the head component with respect to a straight line connecting a connection point between the first shaft member and the head component and a connection point between the second shaft member and the head component.

5. A swing training device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein a protruding portion is provided at the base end of the second shaft member against which part of the palm of the user comes into contact when the user grips the second shaft member.

6. The swing training device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a portion of the first shaft member and a portion of the second shaft member are connected to each other by a connecting member.

7. A swing training device as described in claim 6, wherein the connecting member is formed in a bent shape so that a gap-like escape portion is formed between the base end of the first shaft member and the base end of the second shaft member.

8. A swing training tool as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the head component comprises: a head body imitating the shape of a golf club; and an attachment member configured to be attached to the head body and having a face surface formed thereon that, when attached to the head body, has a different orientation from that of the face surface of the head body.

9. A head component for swing practice comprising a shaft connection portion formed with a cylindrical first recess into which a first shaft member is inserted, and a cylindrical second recess into which a second shaft member is inserted, wherein the first recess and the second recess are oriented such that the center lines of the first recess and the second recess are not parallel to each other and do not intersect in three-dimensional space, and the first shaft member and the second shaft member are connected such that the distance between the first shaft member and the second shaft member becomes shorter toward the shaft connection portion.

10. The swing practice head component of claim 9, further comprising a head body coupled to the shaft connection portion, the first recess being provided at a position on the toe side of the head body, and the second recess being provided at a position on the heel side of the head body.

11. A swing training tool comprising: a first bat; and a second bat whose tip side is connected to the first bat and is tilted relative to the first bat so that the distance to the first bat becomes shorter toward the tip side.

12. The swing training tool described in claim 11, wherein the first bat and the second bat are arranged in an orientation such that a center line of the first bat and a center line of the second bat do not intersect in three-dimensional space, and the first bat is formed so that a protruding length from a connection between the first bat and the second bat is shorter than a protruding length of the second bat.

13. The swing training tool according to claim 11 or 12, wherein a protruding portion is provided at the base end of the second bat against which a part of the palm of the user comes into contact when the user grips the second bat.

14. The swing training device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first bat and the second bat are different in color from each other.

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