Surfing and / or swimming training system

Abstract

A surfing and / or swimming training system includes a resistance simulation system with a resistance mechanism, a user interfacing system, and an anchoring system adapted to releaseably and securely position the resistance mechanism in proximity to a user. A user can lie prone, engage a left interfacing member, engage a right interfacing, and perform a surf paddling or swimming stroke including a right side pull phase together with a left side recovery phase followed by a left side pull phase together with a right side recovery phase. The resistance mechanism causes the right interfacing member to apply resistance during the right side pull phase and causes the left interfacing member to apply resistance during the left side pull phase.

Description

SURFING AND / OR SWIMMING TRAINING SYSTEMPRIORITY

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of domestic priority based on United States Provisional Patent Application 63 / 721,421 filed on November 15, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Resistance training is an exercise technique that involves the use of resistance to build muscle strength by causing an individual’s muscles to contract as the muscles overcome an external resistance force. In general, the resistance can be generated, for example, from free weights, weight machines, body weight, resistance mechanisms, and the like.

[0003] Resistance devices, such as resistance bands or resistance cable systems, have been increasingly becoming popular exercise tools due to their convenience and flexibility of uses. With these devices, an individual will typically grasp a handle that is connected to a band or cable, and resistance to movement of the handle is provided by elasticity of the bands or by a resistance mechanism. As the individual tries to move the handle in one or more directions, the resistance provides a force that the individual must act against in order to make the handle move as desired, thereby strengthening the individual for that movement.

[0004] While useful in providing general exercise and strengthening, most conventional resistance devices are designed to being used in various and numerous manners so as to be universally useful in training multiple muscles and muscle groups. An example of such as resistance training device is the Exergenie, available at exergenie.com. The Exergenie is designed for versatility and a full body workout. Since it is not specifically designed for simulating particular athletic maneuvers, the Exergenie is limited in its usefulness in high level training of activities where more precise control and / or simulation of the activity is required, such as when training for surfing and / or swimming.

[0005] Some resistance training systems have been developed to, at least allegedly or in part, train for surfing and / or swimming, but each attempt suffers from one or more disadvantages and / or inadequacies when it comes to simulating a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. For example, previous surfing or swimming resistance trainers are less than ideal, inadequate, and / or incapable of (i) providing smooth and consistent resistance to the pull phase of the surf paddling and / or swimming stroke, (ii) properly positioning the hands of the user in a manner that simulates the interface between the hands and water that occurs during a surf paddling or swimming stroke, (iii) properly simulating and training the recovery phase of the surf paddling or swimming stroke, and / or (iv) properly simulating and training in a desired posture. In addition, many existing trainers are not sufficiently portable, convenient, and / or affordable to be used by most athletes at home or on the go.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an improved surfing and / or swimming training system. There is a further need for a surfing and / or swimming training system that more accurately and / or realistically simulates the surfing or swimming experience. There is a further a need for a surfing and / or swimming trainer that provides a smooth and consistent resistance to the pull phase of a surf paddling or swimming stroke, that closely simulates the interface between the hands of a user and water that occurs during the pull phase of a surf paddling or swimming stroke, and / or that properly and more accurately simulates the recovery phase of the surf paddling or swimming stroke. There is a further need for a surfing and / or swimming training system that allows for proper surfing and / or swimming posture to be simulated, that provide adjustable resistance of a known quantity, and / or that is sufficiently small and portable to be used almost anywhere.SUMMARY

[0007] The present invention satisfies one or more of these needs. In one aspect of the invention, an improved surfing and / or swimming training system is provided.

[0008] In another aspect of the invention, a surfing and / or swimming training system is provided that more closely simulates one or more aspects of a surf paddling or swimming stroke.

[0009] In another aspect of the invention, a surfing and / or swimming training system is provided that (i) provides smooth and consistent resistance to the pull phase of the surf padding and / or swimming stroke, (ii) properly positions the hands of a user in a manner that simulates the interface between the hands and water that occurs during a surf paddling or swimming stroke, and / or (iii) properly simulates and allows for training of the recovery phase of the surf paddling or swimming stroke.

[0010] In another aspect of the invention, a surfing and / or swimming training system is provided that (i) provides smooth and consistent resistance to the pull phase of the surf padding and / or swimming stroke, (ii) properly positions the hands of a user in a manner that simulates the interface between the hands and water that occurs during a surf paddling or swimming stroke, and (iii) properly simulates and allows for training of the recovery phase of the surf paddling or swimming stroke.

[0011] In another aspect of the invention, a surfing and / or swimming training system is provided that (i) provides smooth and consistent resistance to the pull phase of the surf padding and / or swimming stroke, (ii) properly positions the hands of a user in a manner that simulates the interface between the hands and water that occurs during a surf paddling or swimming stroke, (iii) properly simulates and allows for training of the recovery phase of the surf paddling or swimming stroke, and / or (iv) can properly simulate an upright arched back of a user in a prone position.

[0012] In another aspect of the invention, a surfing and / or swimming training system is provided that (i) provides smooth and consistent resistance to the pull phase of the surf padding and / or swimming stroke, (ii) properly positions the hands of a user in a manner that simulates the interface between the hands and water that occurs during a surf paddling or swimming stroke, and / or (iii) properly simulates and allows for training of the recovery phase of the surf paddling or swimming stroke, wherein the surfing and / or swimming training system is portable and convenient to use in multiple locations.

[0013] In another aspect of the invention, a method of training for surfing and / or swimming comprises providing a surfing and / or swimming trainer as described herein and using the surfing and / or swimming trainer as described herein.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, a surfing and / or swimming training system comprises a resistance simulation system comprising a resistance mechanism, a left side cable extending from the resistance mechanism and a right side cable extending from the resistance mechanism; a user interfacing system comprising a left interfacing member and a right interfacing member, the left interfacing member being connectable to the left side cable and the right interfacing member being connectable to the right side cable; and an anchoring system adapted to releaseably and securely position the resistance mechanism in proximity to a user, wherein the user can lie prone, engage the left interfacing member with a left hand, engage the right interfacing member with a right hand, and perform a surf paddling or swimming stroke including a right side pull phase with the right hand moving rearward together with a left side recovery phase with the left hand moving forward followed by a left side pull phase with the left hand moving rearward together with a right side recovery phase with the right hand move forward, wherein the resistance mechanism causes the right interfacing member to apply resistance to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes the left interfacing member to apply resistance to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes no resistance or pulling force to be applied by the left interfacing member to the left hand during the left side recovery phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes no resistance or pulling force to be applied by the right interfacing member to the right hand during the right side recovery phase, whereby the user can experience a simulation of the resistance of water during the right side pull phase and the left side pull phase of the surf paddling or swimming stoke, and can perform the left side recovery phase and the right side recovery phase with the same sensation as would be felt in water.

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, a surfing and / or swimming training system comprises a resistance simulation system comprising a resistance mechanism, a left side cable extending from the resistance mechanism and a right side cable extendingfrom the resistance mechanism; a user interfacing system comprising a left interfacing member and a right interfacing member, the left interfacing member being connectable to the left side cable and the right interfacing member being connectable to the right side cable; and an anchoring system adapted to releaseably and securely position the resistance mechanism in proximity to a user, wherein the anchoring system comprises a vertical stabilizing mechanism that substantially prevents vertical movement of the resistance mechanism during use, wherein the user can lie prone, engage the left interfacing member with a left hand, engage the right interfacing member with a right hand, and perform a surf paddling or swimming stroke including a right side pull phase with the right hand moving rearward together with a left side recovery phase with the left hand moving forward followed by a left side pull phase with the left hand moving rearward together with a right side recovery phase with the right hand move forward, wherein the resistance mechanism causes the right interfacing member to apply a smooth and consistent resistance to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes the left interfacing member to apply a smooth and consistent resistance to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase, and whereby the user can experience a simulation of the resistance of water during the right side pull phase and the left side pull phase of the surf paddling or swimming stoke.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention, a method of surfing or swimming training comprises providing a training system comprising: a resistance simulation system comprising a resistance mechanism, a left side cable extending from the resistance mechanism and a right side cable extending from the resistance mechanism, and a user interfacing system comprising a left interfacing member and a right interfacing member, the left interfacing member being connectable to the left side cable and the right interfacing member being connectable to the right side cable;anchoring the resistance mechanism to a supporting structure; lying prone; engaging the left interfacing member with a left hand; engage the right interfacing member with a right hand; performing a surf paddling or swimming stroke including a right side pull phase with the right hand moving rearward together with a left side recovery phase with the left hand moving forward followed by a left side pull phase with the left hand moving rearward together with a right side recovery phase with the right hand move forward,feeling resistance to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase and resistance to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase, and perform the left side recovery phase and the right side recovery phase without any resistance or pull so that the left side reconvery phase and right side recovery phase are experienced in the same manner as it would be performed in water.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings which illustrate exemplary features of the invention.However, it is to be understood that each of the features can be used in the invention in general, not merely in the context of the particular drawings, and the invention includes any combination of these features, where:

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic sideview of a surfing and / or swimming training system of the invention in use;

[0019] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a version of an anchoring system of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system of the invention;

[0020] Figure 3 A is a schematic sectional side view of the anchoring system of Figure 2;

[0021] Figure 3B is a perspective view of the anchoring system of Figure 2 in use;

[0022] Figure 4 is a schematic side view of another version of an anchoring system of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system of the invention;

[0023] Figure 5 is a schematic exploded side view of a version of a resistance simulation system of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system of the invention set at a first resistance level;

[0024] Figure 6A is a schematic side view of the resistance simulation system of Figure 5 with its cover removed and set at a second resistance level;

[0025] Figure 6B is a schematic side view of the resistance simulation system of Figure 5 with its cover removed and set at a third resistance level;

[0026] Figure 7A is a schematic perspective view of a version of a user interface system of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system of the invention;

[0027] Figure 7B is a top view of the user interface system of Figure 7A;

[0028] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the user interfacing system of Figure 7A interfacing with a user;

[0029] Figure 9A is a schematic side view of the user interfacing system of Figure 7A interfacing with the left hand of a user using a surfing and / or swimming training system, with the user at the beginning of a left side pull stroke phase of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke simulation exercise;

[0030] Figure 9B is a schematic side view of the user interfacing system of Figure 7A interfacing with the right hand of a user using a surfing and / or swimming training system, with the user at the end of a right side pull stroke phase of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke simulation exercise; and

[0031] Figure 10 is a schematic side view of another version of a resistance simulation system of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system of the invention.DESCRIPTION

[0032] The present invention relates to a training system. In particular, the invention relates to a surfing and / or swimming training system that simulates a surfing and / or swimming experience for training and / or exercising purposes. Although the invention is illustrated and described in the context of being useful for surf and / or swim training, the present invention can be used in other ways, as would be readily apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the present invention should not be limited just to the examples and embodiments described herein.

[0033] Figure 1 shows a surfing and / or swimming training system 100 in accordance with one version of the invention. By training system it is meant a system that is useful for training an individual to perform a particular physical activity and / or for providing exercise in general. The training system 100 in the version shown in Figure l is a resistance-based training system designed, configured, and adapted to be particularly useful for training one or more aspects of surfing and / or swimming, as will be described. The training system 100 comprises a resistance simulation system 105, a user interfacing mechanism 110, and an anchoring system 115. As illustrated in Figure 1, a user 120 positions themselves on a user supporting structure 125, such as a bench 130 or the like, that has a platform 135 adapted to allow the user 120 to be oriented in a position or posture simulating the position or posture the user would assume when surfing, such as when paddling a surfboard, and / or when swimming, such as when performing a freestyle stroke or the like. For example, as seen in Figure 1, the user 120 can assume a prone position facing the resistance simulation system 105. The platform 135 can be sufficiently wide to comfortably support the weight of the user 120 and sufficiently narrow that the user’s arms can comfortably and unobstructedly hang to the sides of the platform 135 and swing in a manner similar to a paddling and / or swimming stroke. The platform 135 may be substantially horizontal, as shown in Figure 1, or may be slightly tilted up or down depending on the desired posture to be simulated. The user supporting structure 125 can be part of the training system 100 or can be separately provided by the user 120. The user interfacing mechanism 110 allows the user positioned on the user supporting structure 125 to interact with the resistance simulation system 105, which is securely positioned at a desired location and condition by the anchoring system 115, as will be explained.

[0034] In use, as shown in Figure 1, a user 120 that is supported on the user supporting structure 125 can interact with the training system 100 in a manner that allows for dryland simulation of the user paddling on a surfboard and / or performing a swimming stroke in water. More specifically, the training system 100 allows the user to perform the muscular movements associated with surfboard paddling and / or swimming in proper biomechanical and anatomical positioning while experiencing asimulation of the resistances that would be encountered during the muscular movements. This allows the user 120 to both practice the maneuvers and strengthen the muscles and muscle groups utilized during the maneuvers Due to the many factors associated with the surf paddling and / or swimming strokes, the training system 100 is embodied with one or more features that account for these factors and utilizes these features to provide an improved simulation over systems heretofore available. For example, a surf paddling and / or swimming maneuver includes both a concentric, or muscle shortening, pull stroke and an eccentric, or muscle lengthening, recovery stroke. In Figure 1, the user 120 is at the initial stages of performing a left side pull stroke and a right side recovery stroke. Once those portions of the stroke are completed, the user will be in a position that is substantially a longitudinal mirror image of the position shown in Figure 1, and the left side will be at the end of the left side pull stroke and the beginning of a left side recovery stroke while the right side will be at the end of the right side recovery stroke and the beginning of a right side pull stroke. During an actual pull stroke in water, the user’s hand is mostly in water, and the pressing of the user’s hand against the water propels the user forward. The resistance felt by the movement is smooth and consistent throughout the pull stroke. During an actual recovery stroke, the user’s hand is mostly out of water, and the movement is mostly unencumbered with the user feeling little or no resistance.During both the pull stroke and the recovery stroke, and the transition between the two, the user’s hand and arm travel through many movement pathways and rotational orientations. The present training system 100 improves the simulation of one or more of at least these factors.

[0035] The user interfacing system 110 of the training system 100 of the invention, is designed to interact with the resistance simulation system 105 in a manner that applies desired resistances to the user that mimic the resistances encountered during surf paddling and / or swimming, while also allowing the hands and arms to be properly oriented. In this way, the user can move and rotate the user’s arms and hands in a realistic surf paddling and / or swimming stroke manner while experiencing resistance to the movements, when appropriate, or no or little resistance to the movement, when appropriate. The user interfacing system 110 comprises a left interfacing member 140 and a right interfacing member 145. The left interfacing member 140 and right interfacing member 145 interface and / or engage the left hand and right hand,respectively, of the user. The left interfacing member 140 is connected to a left side cable 150, and the right interfacing member 145 is connected to a right side cable 155. The left side cable 150 and right side cable 155 connect the left interfacing member 140 and right interfacing member to and / or form a part of the resistance simulation system 105. The left side cable 150 and right side cable 155 can be the same or difference cables and can be in the form of a rope, band, wire, or the like. The user interfacing system 110 is thus able to transfer resistance from the resistance simulation system 105 to the left hand and right hand of the user while still allowing the left hand and right hand to be oriented in a proper orientation, as further explained and exemplified hereinbelow.

[0036] The resistance simulation system 105 comprises a resistance mechanism 160 that is designed to provide a desired resistance to movement of the left interface member 140 and the right interface member 145 that corresponds to the stage of the paddling and / or swimming stroke that is being performed by the user. The resistance mechanism 160 interacts with or includes the left side cable 150 and the right side cable 155 to deliver the desired resistance to the left interface member 140 and right interface member 145 so that the desired resistances can be delivered to the user 120. In one example of the resistances that are provided, the resistance simulation system 105 provides resistance to the user 120 during a pull stroke portion of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. More specifically, the resistance simulation system 105 causes resistance to rearward movement of the left interfacing member 140 when the user is performing a left side pull stroke, and the resistance simulation system 105 causes resistance to rearward movement of the right interfacing member 145 when the user is performing a right side pull stroke. In addition, the resistance simulation system 105 provides little or no resistance to the user during the recovery stroke portion of the of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. More specifically, the resistance simulation system 105 causes little or resistance to forward movement of the left interfacing member 140 when the user is performing a left side recovery stroke, and the resistance simulation system 105 causes little or resistance to forward movement of the right interfacing member 145 when the user is performing a right side recovery stroke. Accordingly, when a user is practicing a pull stroke portion of a paddling and / or swimming stroke, a resistance that simulates the resistance provided by the user’s hand passing through water is presented to the user, and when the user ispracticing a recovery stroke portion of a paddling and / or swimming stroke, there is no resistance to the movement presented to the user to simulate the hand of the user passing through air.

[0037] The anchoring system 115 of the training system 100 of the invention is designed to securely and stably position the training system 100, and in particular the resistance simulation system 105, in a desired physical position in relation to a user 120 and / or to a user supporting structure 125. The anchoring system 115 can permanently attach the resistance simulation system 105 to a supporting structure 160 or, more preferably, releasably attach the resistance simulation system 105 to a supporting structure 160. The supporting structure 165 can be a wall, door, pole, piece of equipment, or the like. As will be discussed in more detailed, in a preferred version, the anchoring system 115 comprises a releasably connectable attachment mechanism 170 that allows the resistance simulation system 105 to be releasably connectable to the supporting structure 165 so as to make the training system 100 portable so that it can be easily used in multiple locations.

[0038] In one version of the training system 100 of the invention, one or more of the resistance simulation system 105, the user interfacing system 110, and the anchoring system 115 are designed to provide improved realism to the resistance experience for the user 120 of the system. For example, the training system 100 can provide improved realism by providing (i) a consistent resistance throughout the pull stroke, (ii) a smooth resistance during the pull stroke, (iii) an unaided and more realistically simulated recovery stroke, (iv) a more realistic simulation of the feel of the resistance by the hands of the user, and / or (v) proper positioning and freedom of movement of the hands during the surf paddling and / or swimming strokes. Each of these features will now be explained in more detail and exemplified.

[0039] First, the resistance simulation system 105 of this version can provide a more realistic experience by providing a consistent resistance during the pull stroke of the training experience. The resistance provided to, for example, the left interfacing member 140 at the beginning of the left side pull stroke and thus the force required by the user to overcome the resistance and to move the left interfacing member 140 rearwardly is the same, consistent resistance throughout the course of the left side pull stroke execution. This consistent resistance closely simulates the consistentexperience of passing a hand through water during a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. In contrast, a conventional resistance trainer that utilizes elastic bands or the like provides variable resistance that increases as the band is stretched farther.

[0040] Second, the training system 100 can provide a more realistic simulation of a surf paddling stroke and / or swimming stroke by providing a smoother presentation of resistance during the pull stroke of the training experience. In one version, this smoother resistance can be provided by implementation of a vertical stabilizing mechanism 175 that is designed to stably maintain the vertical position of the resistance mechanism 160 throughout the surf paddling and / or swimming strokes. In the version shown, the vertical stabilizing mechanism 175 is a vertical stabilization member, such as vertical rod 180, provided on or as connectable to the attachment mechanism 170. The vertical stabilization member contacts the supporting structure 165 in a way that prevents movement that would result in a change in the vertical position of the resistance mechanism 160. For example, in the version shown, the vertical rod 180 is held firmly against a vertical surface of the supporting structure 165 so that there is little or no up and down wobble of the vertical rod 180. The vertical rod 180 is also rigidly connected to the resistance mechanism 160 so that the resistance mechanism 160 in turn does not move or wobble up and down. It has been discovered by the present inventor that the vertical stabilization mechanism 175 significantly enhances the smoothness of the feel of the resistance provided during the pull stroke of a surf paddling and / or swimming simulation with the training system 100. Without the vertical stabilization mechanism 175, the up and down movements of the hands of the user 120 during the pull stroke and / or recovery stroke cause a significant amount of vertical wobble that causes a noticeable unsmooth resistance sensation that can be felt by the user. The unsmooth sensation causes a disconcerting lack of realism during the simulation that is not the same as the smooth resistance provided by water during actual surf paddling and / or swimming.

[0041] Third, the training system 100 of the invention can provide a more realistic simulation of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke by more accurately simulating the recovery stroke portion of the surf paddling and / or swimming strokes. More specifically, the resistance simulation system 105 of the training system 100 is designed to provide little or no aid to the user 120 during the recovery stroke. Thisallows the user 120 to perform the recovery stroke in substantially the same way it is performed in water. Undesirably, when using conventional elastic band and / or resistance cable mechanisms during the recovery stroke portion, the mechanism provides a forward pull that will help to pull the hand of the user forward during the recovery stroke. In contrast, with the present training system, there is little or no forward pull during the recovery stroke. In other words, the resistance simulation system 105 of the present invention provides a resistance in the form of a forwardly directed force during the pull stroke and then removes the forwardly directed force as the surf paddling and / or swimming stroke transitions to the recovery stroke thereby much more accurately simulating the in-water feeling of the surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. Without the aided recovery stroke, the user 120 receives a better workout of the muscles, especially the shoulder muscles used during the unique recovery stroke maneuver. This recovery phase of the surf paddling and / or swimming stroke is often the limiting factor for many surfers because it taxes the tiny rotator cuff muscles in the back of the shoulders that are involved in external rotation and abduction. These muscles are rarely exercised in daily life and are not exercised effectively using a trainer that aids in the forward movement during the recovery phase and having to overcome the force of gravity during the movement.

[0042] Fourth, the training system 100 of the invention can provide a more realistic simulation of the feel of the resistance by the hands of the user. The user interfacing system 110 of the training system 100 includes a contact surface 185 on each of the left interfacing member 140 and the right interfacing member 145 that are designed to contact the left hand and right hand, respectively, of the user 120 and apply resistance thereto in a similar manner and with a similar sensation to the feel of water during actual surf paddling and / swimming strokes, as will de described in more detail hereinbelow. In addition, to further increase the realistic feel and to better target desired muscles, the left interfacing member 150 and the right interfacing member 155 are designed to be held onto the left and right hands, respectfully, of the user without any gripping by the hands. Since during an actual surf paddling and / or swimming stroke, the hands do not hold any object and instead merely feel resistance by the pressure of water on the hands, the training system 100 of the invention approximates this sensation by providing an attachment system 190 for attaching the contact surface 185 to the hands that latches the left interfacing member 140 to theleft hand of the user and the right interfacing member 145 to the right hand of the user without any muscular exertion being required to hold the interfacing members.Moreover, by not having to, for example, hold onto a handle, a user is more apt to properly position their hands and forearms and less likely to pull with a bent wrist and / or bent elbow.

[0043] Fifth, the training system 100 of the invention can provide a more realistic experience for a user 120 of the training system by providing proper positioning and freedom of movement of the hands during the surf paddling and / or swimming strokes. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, because of the attachment system that latches the left interfacing member 140 and right interfacing member 145 to the hands without the need for the hands to hold onto the interfaces, this frees the hands to assume their normal positions and orientations during the surf paddling and / or swimming stroke, as the hands go through many twists and turns during the cycles of the strokes. To allow for this during the use of the training system 100, each of the left interfacing member 140 and the right interfacing member 145 include a cable connection system 195 that connects the left interfacing member 140 to the left side cable 150 and that connects the right interfacing member 145 to the right side cable 155 in a manner that allows the contact surface to move in six degrees of freedom while applying the desired resistance from the resistance simulation system 105.

[0044] In addition, the ability to train the back and core in a prone position to mimic the position of paddling on a surfboard or swimming through water is advantageously useful with the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention. With previous trainers, it is difficult if not impossible to train with the user 120 keeping their head up. As a result, for many surfers, an arch in the surfer’s back collapses, and they bend from their necks instead of with their entire back. As a result their form degrades, pushing the scapula into anterior tilt and putting an acute angle in their neck bend resulting in injury to shoulders and necks. With the present surfing and / or swimming training system 100, this area can be focused on and exercised.

[0045] In one version, the training system 100 of the invention comprises one or any combination of the above-described features that are designed to provide improved realism to the resistance experience for the user 120 of the training system 100. In one particularly preferred version, the training system 100 comprises each of thefeatures described in order to provide a particularly realistic and effective training system 100. A surfing and / or swimming training system 100 including these features properly simulates the biomechanical position and the resistance associated with all phases of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke and experience and thus trains the user 120 in a particularly advantageous manner. Manners in which one or more of these features can be provided will now be exemplified.

[0046] Figure 2 shows a version of an anchoring system 115 of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention. The anchoring system 115 is shown in conjunction with and connected to a resistance mechanism 160 of a resistance simulation system 105 that provides desired resistances to a left side cable 150 and a right side cable 155. The anchoring system 115 in this version includes an attachment mechanism 170 that enables the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 to be portable by being easily and conveniently attachable to any number of supporting structures 165. The attachment mechanism 170 includes vertical rod 180 that operates as part of a vertical stabilization system 175, as will be further explained. Connected to the vertical rod 180 is a supporting structure attaching mechanism 205 that is adapted to supportingly engage a supporting structure 165 in a manner that securely positions the resistance mechanism 160 in a desire location.

[0047] In the version of Figure 2, the supporting structure attaching mechanism 205 comprises a sandwiching clamp 210 that is adapted to sandwich and thereby clamp onto a supporting structure 165, such as a door or the like. The sandwiching clamp 210 comprises an external sandwiching member 215 that contacts an outer surface of a door or the like and an internal sandwiching member 220 that contacts an inner surface of the door or the like. The external sandwiching member 215 is connected to the internal sandwiching member 220 by an adjustable length strap 225 that is able to control the distance between the external sandwiching member 215 and the internal sandwiching member 220. Depression of a spring-loaded lever 230 allows for adjustment of the distance between the external sandwiching member 215 and the internal sandwiching member 220. As illustrated in Figure 3 A, which shows a sectional side view of the sandwiching mechanism 210 of the anchoring system 115, a first end 235 of the strap 225 is connected to the external sandwiching member 215 and a second end 240 of the strap 225 extends through a strap channel 245 in theinternal sandwiching member 220. Within the strap channel 245, the second end 240 of the strap 225 is engagable by engagement teeth 250 connected to the lever 230. When the lever 230 is depressed, the engagement teeth 250 are moved out of engagement with the strap 225 so the strap can slide within the strap channel 245. When the lever 230 is released, the engagement teeth 250 return to the engaging position and lock the strap 225 against further movement within the strap channel 245. Figure 3B shows the anchoring system 115 of Figure 2 positioned on a door 255 that serves as the supporting structure 160 for the anchoring system 115. With the door open, the external sandwiching member 215 is positioned on an external surface of the door 255, and the length of the strap 225 is adjusted so that the internal sandwiching member 220 contacts the internal surface 260 of the door 255. The door 255 is then closed so that the strap 225 extends through the space 265 between the door 255 and a door frame 270.

[0048] In the particular version of Figures 2, 3 A, and 3B, the internal sandwiching member 220 is also the vertical rod 180 that serves to vertically stabilize the resistance mechanism 160 of the surfing and / or swimming training system 100. The vertical rod 180 is rigidly connected to the resistance mechanism 160 by rigid connection 275. By rigidly connected it is meant that there is little or no vertical movement or play between the vertical rod 180 and the resistance mechanism 160. The rigid connection 275 can be permanent or disconnectable and need not necessarily be rigid in directions other than vertical. As can be seen in Figure 3B, by nature of the vertical rod 180 contacting the vertical surface of the door 255, the door frame 270, and / or any other vertical surface, and by being held tightly in the contacting position by the strap 255, the vertical rod 180 is restricted from vertical wobble or movement. The rigid connection 275 passes this vertical stability on to the resistance mechanism 160 so that it too is restricted from vertical wobble or movement. The vertical stability of the restriction mechanism 160 provides for a smooth resistance experience during use of the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 as discussed above. In an alternative version, the internal sandwiching member 220 and the vertical rod 180 can be separate members. In another version, the vertical stability can be provided by a mechanism other than the vertical rod 180.

[0049] Figure 4 shows another version of an anchoring system 115 that can be used with the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention. The anchoring system 115 of Figure 4, like the version of Figure 2, can be used to make the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 portable by being easily and conveniently attachable to a supporting structure 165 that can be encircled, such as a pole 405 or the like. Accordingly, in this version, the supporting structure attaching mechanism 205 of the attachment mechanism 170 comprises an encircling clamp 410. In the particular version shown, the encircling clamp 410 comprises an encircling strap 415 connected to the vertical rod 180 at a first end, and a free end 420 of the encircling strap 415 passes through a cam buckle 425 that is also connected to the vertical rod 180. The cam buckle 425 allows the length of the encircling strap 415 to be adjusted so that it can be pulled tight around the pole 405. Figure 4 shows the strap in the process of being tightened. Upon continued tightening, the vertical rod 180 will contact the pole 405 so that vertical stabilization is provided. Optionally, the anchoring system 115 of the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 can include both a sandwiching claim 210 and an encircling clamp 410 as separate or combine elements in order to increase the flexibility of use of the system.Alternatively, any other clamping or attachment mechanism can be provided or incorporated, provided the anchoring system 115 includes a vertical stabilization mechanism 175, such as the vertical rod 180 that vertically contacts a surface.

[0050] Figure 5 shows a version of a resistance simulation system 105 of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention. In this version, the resistance simulation system 105 comprises a resistance mechanism 160. The resistance mechanism 160 comprises a resistance unit 505 comprising an internal resistance generating system 510 and, optionally, a cover member 515 that is slidable over the internal resistance generating system 510. The internal resistance generating system 510 is designed to apply a desired amount of friction to the left side cable 150 and the right side cable 155 so that the left side cable 150 provides a desire resistance to the left interfacing member 140, and the right side cable 155 provide a desired resistance to the right interfacing member 145. The resistance generating system 510 of the resistance unit 505 provides the desired resistance at the appropriate phases of the surf paddling and / or swimming stroke, as discussed above, by the use of frictionthat selectively restricts movement of the left side cable 150 and the right side cable 155.

[0051] In the version of Figure 5, the left side cable 150 and the right side cable 155 are made up of opposite end of a single non-elastic cable 520 or rope. By non-elastic it is meant that the cable or rope does not noticeably stretch in a manner where the stretch is what provides the resistance. In this particular version, the non-elastic cable 520 is designed so that any elastic stretching under normal operating conditions is insignificant and / or unnoticeable. While The resistance unit 505 has a first end 525 having a left side cable opening 530 and a right side cable opening 535. An internal post 540 extends from the first end 525 of the resistance unit 505 to towards the second end 545 of the resistance unit 505. The post 540 includes a cable opening 550 at or near the second end 545 of the resistance unit 505. In the particular version shown the post 540 can also be used to provide the rigid connection 275 with the vertical rod 180 of the anchoring system 115. The non-elastic cable 520 is strung into the left side cable opening 530, through the post cable opening 550 and back out the right side cable opening 535. A cable sliding pathway 555 is provided within the resistance unit 505 that extends from the left side cable opening 530 to the right side cable opening 535. The left side cable 150 is thus the portion of the non-elastic cable 520 that extends from the left side opening 530 to the left interfacing member 140, and the right side cable 155 is the portion of the non-elastic cable 520 that extends from the right side cable opening 535 to the right interfacing member 145 with the lengths of the left side cable 150 and the right side cable 155 changing as the non- elastic cable 520 is slid through the cable sliding pathway 555. The sliding of the non-elastic cable 520 within the cable sliding pathway 555 is accomplished by a user 120 pulling on either the left side cable 150 portion of the non-elastic cable 520 or the right side cable 155 portion of the non-elastic cable 520.

[0052] The friction generated by the sliding of the non-elastic cable 520 within the cable sliding pathway 555 provides the resistance that will be provided to the user interfacing system 110. For example, by pulling on the right side cable 155, as shown by pull arrow 560 and as would occur during a right side pull stroke, the non-elastic cable 520 will slide within the cable sliding pathway 555 in the direction shown by slide arrows 565. The force required to cause the non-elastic cable 520 to slide willbe experienced by the user 120 as resistance applied by the right interfacing member 145 to the right hand of the user 120. As the right side cable 155 is being pulled 560 by the right side pull stroke, the left side cable 150 will be taken up by being pulled through the left side cable opening 530 as shown by uptake arrow 570. So long as the forward movement of the left hand of the user 120 during the left side recover stroke is the same speed or faster than the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull stroke, which it will be with proper surf paddling and / or swimming technique, there will be no pulling force exerted by the left side cable 150 on the left interfacing member 140. Accordingly, the uptake 570 is merely taking up slack in the left side cable 150 rather than aiding or assisting the recovery stroke. Once the right side pull stroke and left side recovery stroke are completed, the process will reverse and the left side pull stroke will pull on the left side cable 150 causing the non-elastic cable 520 to slide in reverse direction to the arrows shown in Figure 5.

[0053] In one version of the resistance simulation system 105 of the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention, as shown in Figured 6A and 6B, the resistance mechanism 160 can provide adjustable resistance. The cover member 515 is removed in Figures 6A and 6B for clarity. Thus, in this version, the resistance unit 505 includes a resistance adjusting mechanism 605. In the particular version shown, the resistance adjusting mechanism 605 comprises a rotatable end piece 610 at the first end 525 of the resistance unit 505 that is rotatable relative to the post 540. The rotatable end piece 610 includes the left side cable opening 530 and the right side cable opening 535. By rotating the rotatable end piece 610 relative to the post 540, the non-elastic cable 520 within the internal resistance generating system 510 is caused to wrap around the post 540, from a first position 575 shown in Figure 5 to a second position 615 as shown in Figure 6A. Continued rotation of the rotatable end piece 610 will cause the non-elastic cable 520 to continue wrapping, as shown by the third position 620 as shown in Figure 6B. The wrapping of the non-elastic cable 520 around the post 540 results in an increase in friction in within the cable sliding pathway 555. Accordingly, the three positions shown in Figures 5, 6 A, and 6B have increasing friction and thus increasing resistance is provided from the first position 575 with the least friction and least, almost no, resistance to the second position 615 with an intermediate level of friction and intermediate resistance to the third position 620 with the largest friction and the largest resistance of the positions shown.

[0054] The ability for a user 120 to adjust the resistance of the resistance simulation system 105 offers advantageous flexibility for the user 120. For example, the user 120 can adjust the resistance to a level that most closely simulates the feel of water resistance for the user 120. Alternatively, the user 120 may choose to set a higher resistance level for increased strength training and / or to create of sensation of relative ease when the user is actually surf paddling and / or swimming in water. The user 120 may otherwise opt for a lower resistance setting in situations where the user 120 wants to relax the user’s muscles and / or focus more on mechanics or flexibility. Various alterations can also be made that are similar to the versions of Figures 5. For example, the shape of the cable sliding pathway 555 can be changed, such as by making the post extend laterally rather than longitudinally.

[0055] While the resistance mechanism 160 of Figures 5, 6A, and 6B is particularly useful in that it provides the desired resistances in a simple and inexpensive manner, other types of resistance mechanisms can be used instead that are capable of provide the resistances and variations in resistances discussed herein. Such alternative resistance mechanism can include systems that use water to provide the resistance, systems that use magnets forces or electromagnetic forces to apply the resistances, and the like.

[0056] Figures 7A and 7B show perspective and top views, respectively, of a version of a user interfacing system 110 of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention. In this version, the user interfacing system 110 comprises an ergonomic, water-simulating interfacing member 705 that can be used as either the left interfacing member 140 or the right interfacing member 145 when connected to the left side cable 150 or the right side cable 155 of the resistance simulation system 105. The ergonomic, water-simulating interfacing member 705 comprises a resistance-providing platform 710 having an upper surface 715 that makes of the contact surface 185 of the left interfacing member 140 or the right interfacing member 145. In the version shown, the upper surface 715 of the resistance-providing platform 710 has a non-planar, convex, ergonomic shape or contour. The ergonomic shape or contour is designed to the shape of the palm and at least a portion of the fingers of the user’s hand when performing a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. More specifically, the ergonomic shape or contour allowsfor a slight cupping of the hand and a slight spreading of the fingers, if desired, by the user. This ergonomic shape and / or contour presents the resistance to the hands of the user 120, especially to the palms, with the hands in a natural position, and the resistance is spread across the hand to simulate the sensation of water resistance while actually surf paddling and / or swimming.

[0057] The user interfacing system 110 of Figures 7A and 7B can also include a resistance transmission member 720. The resistance transmission member 720 is designed to transmit resistance from the resistance simulation system 105 to the resistance resistance-providing platform 710 in an evenly distributed and forwardly directed manner. In the particular version shown, the resistance transmission member 720 comprises an arched structure 725 that contacts and / or connects to the resistanceproviding platform 710 along its sides and / or bottom. The arched structure 725 is positioned on the resistance-providing platform 710 at a position generally above the position where the base of the user’s palm will sit on the resistance-providing platform 710, as shown in Figure 8 which shows a user’s right hand positioned on the resistance providing platform 710. At the top of the arched structure 725 is an opening 730 that forms part of the cable connection system 190. The opening 730 is positioned generally along the longitudinal center of gravity of the resistanceproviding platform 725 so that force applied at the opening 730 by the resistance simulation system 105 will be even distributed from side to side of the resistanceproviding platform 710. The left side cable 150 and / or the right side cable 155 can be connected to the opening 730 by any suitable mechanism, such as be being directly threaded through the opening 730 or by being connected by a carabiner clip or the like.

[0058] As also shown in Figured 7A, 7B, and 8, the interfacing member 705 of this version of the user interfacing system 110 includes am interface attachment system 190 that allows the resistance-providing platform 710 to be attached to the hands in a way that latches the interfacing member 705 to the hand of the user without any muscular exertion being required to hold the interfacing member 705. To this end, the interfacing member 705 includes a pair of front attachment strap openings 735 and a pair of rear attachment strap openings 740. The front attachment strap openings can connect the interfacing member 705 to a front strap 805, and the rear attachment strapopenings can connect the interfacing member 705 to a rear strap 810, as seen in Figure 8. The front strap 805 and rear strap 810 can hold the upper surface 715 of the interfacing member 705 in contact with the hand of the user 120 without the user 120 having to make effort to do so. This allows resistance to be applied to the hands in a similar manner and with a similar sensation to the feel of water during actual surf paddling and / swimming strokes. Alternatively, a different system for latching to the hand can be provided, such as replacing the two straps with one wide strap, using a single palm strap with one of more finger straps, or the like.

[0059] In addition, to further increase the realistic feel and to facilitate advanced training, the interfacing member 705 of this version allows for the proper positioning and freedom of movement of the hands during the surf paddling and / or swimming strokes. More specifically, the cable connection system 195 that connects the interfacing member 705 to the left side cable 150 or the right side cable 150 does so in a manner that allows the resistance-providing platform 710 to move in six degrees of freedom (i.e. translation along three orthogonal axes and rotation about those axes) while applying the desired resistance from the resistance simulation system 105. This gives the user’ s hands the ability to move and rotate as they naturally do during a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. This is demonstrated in Figures 9A and 9B. In Figure 9A, the left hand of the user 130 is shown with the user 120 being at the beginning of a left side pull stroke phase of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. In Figure 9B, the right hand of the user 130 is shown with the user 120 being at the end of a right side pull stroke phase of a surf paddling and / or swimming stroke. As can be seen, the rotational orientations of the hand positioning is different in the two different positions. These positions are achievable without significant encumbrance and without the user 120 having to devote attention to holding the interface.

[0060] While particularly useful with the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 described herein, the interfacing member 705 of Figures 7A, 7B, and 8 can be advantageously useful with other training systems and / or training systems that lack the resistance and / or anchoring features described herein.

[0061] Figure 10 shows another version of a resistance simulation system 105 of a version of a surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention. The version of Figure 10 is similar to the version of Figures 5, 6A, and 6B, but in theversion of Figure 10, the resistance simulation system 105 comprises a resistance unit 505 that includes a resistance level indicator 1005 that provides an indication of the resistance level when the cover member 515 is on the resistance unit 505 and the nonelastic cable 520 cannot be visualized within the resistance unit 505. The indicator 1005 is provided with indicia 1010 on a vertical scale and a marker 1015 that moves vertically to be associated with the indicia 1010 to indicate how many times the rotatable end piece 610 has been rotated. In the particular version shown, each time the rotatably end piece 610 is turned 360 degrees, the marker 1015 can be shifted up one notch so the user 120 can keep track of the number of turns and thus the resistance level. The movement of the marker 1015 up each notch can be done manually or automatically.

[0062] The surfing and / or swimming training system 100 of the invention, in one or more of the versions described and with one of more of the advantageous features discussed, thus solves problems associated with previously attempted surfing and / or swimming training devices or other resistance-based trainers. Heretofore there has been no way to properly simulate the biomechanics and technique of paddling on a surfboard, swimming in a pool, or doing any kind of activity that requires similar biomechanics so that surfers, swimmers, and other athletes could improve their technique while also training their endurance and power. There also were no devices that solved one or more problems and that was sufficient small and easily set up to be portable.

[0063] Various variations and alterations including the spirit of the above-described aspects and features of the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 can also be provided. For example, while the swimming motion has been demonstrated in relation to a freestyle stroke, the surfing and / or swimming training system 100 can be used to train other reciprocating strokes, such as a backstroke, with the versions shown herein. In addition, the single cable resistance mechanism 160 described herein is but one way of achieving the variation of resistances of the system. In another version, each of the left and right sides could be provided with separate resistance mechanisms that are each adapted to provide the changing resistances. For example, the resistance amounts could be computer controlled, with the computer sensing or detecting the hand position of the user 120 and adjusting the resistancepresented accordingly. With such a system, swimming strokes such as the breast stroke and butterfly can be practiced.

[0064] Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with regard to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible, and alterations, permutations and equivalents of the versions shown will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the specification and study of the drawings. For example, the cooperating components may be reversed or provided in additional or fewer number, and all directional limitations, such as up and down and the like, can be switched, reversed, or changed as long as doing so is not prohibited by the language herein with regard to a particular version of the invention. Like numerals represent like parts from figure to figure. When the same reference number has been used in multiple figures, the discussion associated with that reference number in one figure is intended to be applicable to the additional figure(s) in which it is used, so long as doing so is not prohibited by explicit language with reference to one of the figures. Also, the various features of the versions herein can be combined in various ways to provide additional versions of the present invention. Furthermore, certain terminology has been used for the purposes of descriptive clarity, and not to limit the present invention. Throughout this specification and any claims appended hereto, unless the context makes it clear otherwise, the term “comprise” and its variations such as “comprises” and “comprising” should be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, limitation, or step but not the exclusion of any other elements, limitations, or steps. Throughout this specification and any claims appended hereto, unless the context makes it clear otherwise, the term “consisting of’ and “consisting essentially of’ should be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, limitation, or step and the exclusion of any other elements, limitations, or steps or the exclusion of any other essential elements, limitations, or steps, respectively. Throughout the specification, any discussion of a combination of elements, limitations, or steps should be understood to include (i) each element, limitation, or step of the combination alone, (ii) each element, limitation, or step of the combination with any one or more other element, limitation, or step of the combination, (iii) an inclusion of additional elements, limitations, or steps (i.e. the combination may comprise one or more additional elements, limitations, or steps), and / or (iv) an exclusion of additional elements, limitations, or steps or an exclusion ofessential additional elements, limitations, or steps (i.e. the combination may consist of or consist essentially of the disclosed combination or parts of the combination). All numerical values, unless otherwise made clear in the disclosure or prosecution, include either the exact value or approximations in the vicinity of the stated numerical values, such as for example about + / - ten percent or as would be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art in the disclosed context. The same is true for the use of the terms such as about, substantially, and the like. Also, for any numerical ranges given, unless otherwise made clear in the disclosure, during prosecution, or by being explicitly set forth in a claim, the ranges include either the exact range or approximations in the vicinity of the values at one or both of the ends of the range. When multiple ranges are provided, the disclosed ranges are intended to include any combinations of ends of the ranges with one another and to include zero and infinity as possible ends of the ranges. Therefore, any appended or later filed claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein and should include all such alterations, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A training system for surfing or swimming training, the training system comprising:a resistance simulation system comprising a resistance mechanism, a left side cable extending from the resistance mechanism and a right side cable extending from the resistance mechanism;a user interfacing system comprising a left interfacing member and a right interfacing member, the left interfacing member being connectable to the left side cable and the right interfacing member being connectable to the right side cable; andan anchoring system adapted to releaseably and securely position the resistance mechanism in proximity to a user,wherein the user can lie prone, engage the left interfacing member with a left hand, engage the right interfacing member with a right hand, and perform a surf paddling or swimming stroke including a right side pull phase with the right hand moving rearward together with a left side recovery phase with the left hand moving forward followed by a left side pull phase with the left hand moving rearward together with a right side recovery phase with the right hand move forward,wherein the resistance mechanism causes the right interfacing member to apply resistance to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes the left interfacing member to apply resistance to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase, andwherein the resistance mechanism causes no resistance or pulling force to be applied by the left interfacing member to the left hand during the left side recovery phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes no resistance or pulling force to be applied by the right interfacing member to the right hand during the right side recovery phase,whereby the user can experience a simulation of the resistance of water during the right side pull phase and the left side pull phase of the surf paddling or swimming stoke, and can perform the left side recovery phase and the right side recovery phase with the same sensation as would be felt in water.

2. A training system according to claim 1 wherein the left side cable comprises non-elastic cable and wherein the right side cable comprises non-elastic cable.

3. A training system according to claim 1 wherein the left side cable and the right side cable are part of a single non-elastic cable, wherein the single non-elastic cable passes through a cable sliding pathway in the resistance mechanism, and wherein friction in the cable sliding pathway generates the resistance that is applied to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase and the resistance that is applied to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase.

4. A training system according to claim 3 wherein the resistance is adjustable.

5. A training system according to claim 3 wherein the cable sliding pathway comprises the non-elastic cable spiraling around a post within the resistance mechanism, and wherein the resistance is adjustable by adjusting the number of times the non-elastic cable spirals around the post.

6. A training system according to claim 5 wherein the resistance mechanism comprises an indicator that provides a visual indication of the number of times the non-elastic cable spirals around the post.

7. A training system according to claim 1 wherein the right side interfacing member comprises a resistance-providing platform having an ergonomic surface adapted to contact the right hand of the user, and wherein the resistance-providing platform is latchable onto the right hand of the user without the right hand having to perform a gripping action.

8. A training system according to claim 1 wherein the right side interfacing member comprises a resistance-providing platform having an ergonomic surface adapted to contact the right hand of the user, and wherein the resistance-providing platform is moveable in six degrees of freedom while applying resistance to the right hand of the user.

9. A training system according to claim 1 wherein the anchoring system comprises a supporting structure attaching mechanism adapted to releasably attach the resistance mechanism to a supporting structure, and wherein the supporting structureattaching mechanism comprises a vertical stabilizing mechanism that substantially prevents vertical movement of the resistance mechanism during use.

10. A training system according to claim 1 wherein the training system comprises a user supporting structure having a platform on which the user can lie while performing the surf paddling or swimming stroke.

11. A training system for surfing or swimming training, the training system comprising:a resistance simulation system comprising a resistance mechanism, a left side cable extending from the resistance mechanism and a right side cable extending from the resistance mechanism;a user interfacing system comprising a left interfacing member and a right interfacing member, the left interfacing member being connectable to the left side cable and the right interfacing member being connectable to the right side cable; andan anchoring system adapted to releaseably and securely position the resistance mechanism in proximity to a user, wherein the anchoring system comprises a vertical stabilizing mechanism that substantially prevents vertical movement of the resistance mechanism during use,wherein the user can lie prone, engage the left interfacing member with a left hand, engage the right interfacing member with a right hand, and perform a surf paddling or swimming stroke including a right side pull phase with the right hand moving rearward together with a left side recovery phase with the left hand moving forward followed by a left side pull phase with the left hand moving rearward together with a right side recovery phase with the right hand move forward,wherein the resistance mechanism causes the right interfacing member to apply a smooth and consistent resistance to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes the left interfacing member to apply a smooth and consistent resistance to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase, andwhereby the user can experience a simulation of the resistance of water during the right side pull phase and the left side pull phase of the surf paddling or swimming stoke.

12. A training system according to claim 11 wherein the vertical stabilizing mechanism comprises a vertical rod that is rigidly connected to the resistance mechanism, and wherein the vertical rod is adapted to contact a vertical surface of a supporting structure.

13. A training system according to claim 11 wherein the anchoring system comprises a supporting structure attaching mechanism adapted to releasably attach the resistance mechanism to a supporting structure, and wherein the supporting structure is a door or a pole.

14. A training system according to claim 11 wherein the anchoring system comprises a supporting structure attaching mechanism adapted to releasably attach the resistance mechanism to a supporting structure, and wherein the supporting structure attaching mechanism comprises a sandwiching clamp that is adapted to sandwich a door between an external sandwiching member and an internal sandwiching member.

15. A training system according to claim 14 wherein the internal sandwiching member is part of the vertical stabilizing mechanism.

16. A training system according to claim 11 wherein the resistance mechanism causes no resistance or pulling force to be applied by the left interfacing member to the left hand during the left side recovery phase, and wherein the resistance mechanism causes no resistance or pulling force to be applied by the right interfacing member to the right hand during the right side recovery phase.

17. A training system according to claim 11 wherein the left side cable and the right side cable are part of a single non-elastic cable, wherein the single non-elastic cable passes through a cable sliding pathway in the resistance mechanism, and wherein friction in the cable sliding pathway generates the resistance that is applied to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase and the resistance that is applied to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase.

18. A training system according to claim 11 wherein the right side interfacing member comprises a resistance-providing platform having an ergonomic surface adapted tocontact the right hand of the user, wherein the resistance-providing platform is latchable onto the right hand of the user without the right hand having to perform a gripping action, and wherein the resistance-providing platform is moveable in six degrees of freedom while applying resistance to the right hand of the user.

19. A method of surfing or swimming training, the method comprising:providing a training system comprising:a resistance simulation system comprising a resistance mechanism, a left side cable extending from the resistance mechanism and a right side cable extending from the resistance mechanism; anda user interfacing system comprising a left interfacing member and a right interfacing member, the left interfacing member being connectable to the left side cable and the right interfacing member being connectable to the right side cable;anchoring the resistance mechanism to a supporting structure;lying prone;engaging the left interfacing member with a left hand;engage the right interfacing member with a right hand;performing a surf paddling or swimming stroke including a right side pull phase with the right hand moving rearward together with a left side recovery phase with the left hand moving forward followed by a left side pull phase with the left hand moving rearward together with a right side recovery phase with the right hand move forward,feeling resistance to the rearward movement of the right hand during the right side pull phase and resistance to the rearward movement of the left hand during the left side pull phase, andperform the left side recovery phase and the right side recovery phase without any resistance or pull so that the left side reconvery phase and right side recovery phase are experienced in the same manner as it would be performed in water.

20. A method according to claim 18 wherein the step of anchoring the resistance mechanism to a supporting structure comprises providing vertical stabilizationthat substantially prevents vertical movement of the resistance mechanism during use, and wherein the step of engaging the left interfacing member with a left hand comprises latchingthe left interfacing member to the left hand so there is no gripping motion by the left hand, and the step of engaging the right interfacing member with a right hand comprises latching the right interfacing member to the right hand so there is no gripping motion by the right hand.

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