ATHLETIC TRAINING TOOL AND METHODS FOR USING SAME

Abstract

A training tool for training an athlete to avoid undesired movement during a swinging action. The training tool is selectively adjustable to accommodate left- and right-handed athletes, as well as athletes of various sizes.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/028,532, filed Jul. 24, 2014, which application is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to a training tool for training an athlete to limit undesirable movement during a swinging action.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Baseball players, softball players, and golfers of all ages spend time learning, improving, and/or practicing their hitting technique (i.e., their swing). When hitting, baseball and softball players frequently have a tendency to step toward the pitching mound with their lead foot (foot closest to the pitching mount) and/or to lunge after a ball as it reaches the plate. Often, baseball and softball players also have a tendency to step away from the plate (and, potentially, out of the athlete's box) with their lead foot. Similarly, golfers often have a tendency to lunge toward the golf ball or step forward during their swing. However, these tendencies can cause the athlete to swing at undesirable pitches (e.g., balls or pitches that are difficult to hit) and to otherwise exhibit poor technique (e.g., loss of balance or an incomplete, uneven, or unnatural swing). Thus, there is a need in the pertinent art for a training tool that helps discourage baseball players, softball players, golfers, and other athletes from exhibiting undesirable leg movements during swinging actions.

SUMMARY

[0004] Described herein, in one aspect, is a training tool for training an athlete (e.g., a baseball player, a softball player, a golfer, and the like) to exhibit proper and/or desired form (e.g., leg positioning) during a swinging motion. The training tool can have a base assembly and a guide assembly. The base assembly can have a longitudinal axis, a first end, and an opposed second end. The base assembly can have an adjustable length relative to its longitudinal axis. The guide assembly can have a support arm and a guide element. The support arm can have a longitudinal axis, a first end, and an opposed second end. The support arm can have an adjustable length relative to its longitudinal axis. The first end of the support arm can be pivotally connected to the first end of the base assembly, and the support arm can be configured for selective pivotal movement to adjust an orientation angle of the support arm. The orientation angle can correspond to the angular orientation of the longitudinal axis of the support arm relative to the longitudinal axis of the base assembly. The guide element can be coupled to the second end of the support arm and optionally can be configured for selective rotation relative to the longitudinal axis of the support arm to achieve a desired rotational orientation. A base portion of the guide element is positioned proximate the second end of the support arm and positioned at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the support arm. The length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element are selectively adjustable to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete.

[0005] In another aspect, described herein is a method of training an athlete (e.g., a baseball player, a softball player, a golfer, and the like) to exhibit proper and/or desired form (e.g., leg positioning) during a swinging motion. In a batting position, the two legs of the athlete can be spaced apart relative to a first axis. The method can include positioning a training tool in spaced relation to the athlete such that a longitudinal axis of a base assembly of the training tool is substantially parallel to the first axis. The base assembly can have a first end, a second end, and an adjustable length relative to its longitudinal axis. The training tool can further comprise a guide assembly. The guide assembly can have a support arm and a guide element. The support arm can have a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end. The support arm can have an adjustable length relative to its longitudinal axis. The first end of the support arm can be pivotally connected to the first end of the base assembly. The support arm can be configured for selective pivotal movement to adjust an orientation angle of the support arm. The orientation angle of the support arm can correspond to the angular orientation of the longitudinal axis of the support arm relative to the longitudinal axis of the base assembly. The guide element can be coupled to the second end of the support arm and optionally can be configured for selective rotation relative to the longitudinal axis of the support arm to achieve a desired rotational orientation. At least a base portion of the guide element extends at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the support arm. The method can also include selectively adjusting at least one of the length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete. In the selected position, the guide element can be configured to limit undesired movement (i.e., to maintain desired leg positioning) of the athlete during a swinging action (e.g., when a baseball or softball player is at bat or when a golfer is hitting a golf ball).

[0006] Additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0007] These and other features of the preferred embodiments of the invention will become more apparent in the detailed description in which reference is made to the appended drawings wherein:

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary training tool as disclosed herein.

[0009] FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of the training tool of FIG. 1, shown in an operative position for a right-handed athlete. FIG. 2 B is a top perspective view of the training tool of FIG. 1, shown in an operative position for a left-handed athlete.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] The present invention can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0011] The following description of the invention is provided as an enabling teaching of the invention in its best, currently known embodiment. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects of the invention described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present invention. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present invention can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present invention without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present invention are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present invention. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present invention and not in limitation thereof.

[0012] As used throughout, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a guide element" can include two or more such guide elements unless the context indicates otherwise.

[0013] Ranges can be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0014] As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally" mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0015] As used herein, the term "athlete" refers to any person participating in an activity in which it is desirable to maintain a particular leg positioning, stance, and/or posture (optionally, during movement of at least a portion of the athlete's upper body). In exemplary applications, an athlete can be a sports participant, such as, for example and without limitation, a baseball player, a softball player, a cabbage ball player, a wiffle ball player, a golfer, a tennis player, and the like. However, it is contemplated that an athlete can be an individual who is participating in a physical activity outside the sports context. In exemplary aspects, as further disclosed herein, the athlete can be involved in a swinging activity or other activity that requires movement of at least a portion of the upper body of the athlete.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "swinging" and "hitting" are used interchangeably, whereas the term "batting" refers to a swinging or hitting activity performed using a bat (e.g., by a baseball or softball player).

[0017] The word "or" as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also includes any combination of members of that list.

The Training Tool

[0018] Described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-2B is a training tool 10 for training an athlete. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the training tool 10 can be used as disclosed herein to train an athlete such as a golf player, a baseball player, or a softball player. As further disclosed herein, it is contemplated that the training tool 10 can be used to prevent and/or discourage undesired leg movement during a batting or swinging action, whether during training or practice or during a game or match. In baseball or softball (or similar sport) applications, it is contemplated that the training tool 10 can be used during live pitching or swinging, during use of a pitching machine, or with a tee.

[0019] In exemplary aspects, as shown in FIG. 1, the training tool 10 can comprise a base assembly 20 and a guide assembly 40. In one aspect, the base assembly 20 can have a longitudinal axis 22, a first end 24, and an opposed second end 26. In another aspect, the base assembly 20 can have an adjustable length relative to its longitudinal axis 22. Optionally, in this aspect, the length of the base assembly 20 can be selectively adjustable within a range of about 36 inches to about 48 inches. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the base assembly 20 can optionally comprise a first portion and at least one telescoping portion that is configured for selective insertion or retraction relative to the first portion of the base assembly to permit adjustment of the operative length of the base assembly. It is further contemplated that the base assembly 20 can comprise means for securing the at least one telescoping portion in a desired position to achieve a selected length of the base assembly. In some aspects, it is optionally contemplated that the first portion of the base assembly 20 can define the first end 24 of the base assembly, while a first telescoping portion can define the second end 26 of the base assembly. In other aspects, it is optionally contemplated that the first portion of the base assembly 20 can define the second end 26 of the base assembly, while a first telescoping portion can define the first end 24 of the base assembly. In further optional aspects, it is contemplated that a first telescoping portion of the base assembly 20 can define the first end 24 of the base assembly while a second telescoping portion of the base assembly can define the second end 26 of the base assembly. Optionally, in exemplary aspects, each telescoping portion can comprise a plurality of openings spaced relative to the longitudinal axis 22, the first portion of the base assembly 20 can define at least one opening, and the means for securing the at least one telescoping portion in a desired position can comprise a locking pin that is configured for insertion through an opening of the first portion of the base assembly and into a selected opening of a respective telescoping portion when the selected opening is substantially aligned with the opening of the first portion of the base assembly. In additional optional aspects, the means for securing the at least one telescoping portion in the desired position can comprise at least one tension lock as is known in the art. Optionally, in these aspects, the at least one tension lock can be operatively positioned within the at least one telescoping portion to limit the tension experienced by the at least one telescoping portion. In exemplary aspects, at least one tension lock can optionally be operatively coupled to the at least one telescoping portion and the first portion of the base assembly 20 to prevent the telescoping portion from completely sliding past and separating from the first portion. In further optional aspects, it is contemplated that the means for securing the at least one telescoping portion in a desired position can comprise a linear actuator as is known in the art (including, for example and without limitation, a mechanical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a piezoelectric actuator, an electromechanical actuator, and the like) that is operatively coupled to the telescoping portion of the base assembly 20 and configured for selective activation to achieve a desired configuration of the base assembly. Although several exemplary means for securing the at least one telescoping portion in a desired position are disclosed herein, it is contemplated that any conventional mechanism having this capability can be employed in a similar manner.

[0020] In an additional aspect, the guide assembly 40 can comprise a support arm 42 and a guide element 52. In one aspect, the guide assembly 40 can have a longitudinal axis 44, a first end 46, and an opposed second end 48. In another aspect, the support arm 42 can have an adjustable length relative to its longitudinal axis 44. Optionally, in this aspect, the length of the support arm 42 can be selectively adjustable within a range of about 24 inches to about 36 inches. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the support arm 42 can optionally comprise a first portion and at least one telescoping portion that is configured for selective insertion or retraction relative to the first portion of the support arm. In exemplary aspects, the first portion of the support arm 42 can define the first end 46 of the support arm and a telescoping portion of the support arm can define the second end 48 of the support arm. It is further contemplated that the support arm 42 can comprise means for securing the at least one telescoping portion of the support arm in a desired position to achieve a selected length of the support arm. Optionally, in exemplary aspects, each telescoping portion can comprise a plurality of openings spaced relative to the longitudinal axis 44, the first portion of the support arm 42 can define at least one opening, and the means for securing the at least one telescoping portion in a desired position can comprise a locking pin that is configured for insertion through an opening of the first portion of the support arm and into a selected opening of a respective telescoping portion when the selected opening is substantially aligned with the opening of the first portion of the support arm. In additional optional aspects, the means for securing the at least one telescoping portion of the support arm in the desired position can comprise at least one tension lock as is known in the art. Optionally, in these aspects, the at least one tension lock can be operatively positioned within the at least one telescoping portion of the support arm 42 to limit the tension experienced by the at least one telescoping portion. In exemplary aspects, at least one tension lock can optionally be operatively coupled to the at least one telescoping portion and the first portion of the support arm 42 to prevent the telescoping portion from completely sliding past and separating from the first portion. In further optional aspects, it is contemplated that the means for securing the at least one telescoping portion in a desired position can comprise a linear actuator as is known in the art (including, for example and without limitation, a mechanical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a piezoelectric actuator, an electromechanical actuator, and the like) that is operatively coupled to the telescoping portion of the support arm 42 and configured for selective activation to achieve a desired configuration of the support arm. Although several exemplary means for securing the at least one telescoping portion of the support arm in a desired position are disclosed herein, it is contemplated that any conventional mechanism having this capability can be employed in a similar manner.

[0021] In a further aspect, the first end 46 of the support arm 42 can be pivotally connected to the first end 24 of the base assembly. In this aspect, the support arm 42 can be configured for selective pivotal movement to adjust an orientation angle 50 of the support arm. As shown in FIG. 1, the orientation angle 50 can correspond to the angular orientation of the longitudinal axis 44 of the support arm 42 relative to the longitudinal axis 22 of the base assembly 20. In exemplary aspects, the orientation angle 50 can range from about 10 degrees to about 90 degrees, more preferably from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees, and most preferably from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees.

[0022] In another aspect, the guide element 52 can be coupled to the second end 48 of the support arm 42. Optionally, the guide element 52 can be configured for selective rotation relative to the longitudinal axis 44 of the support arm to achieve a desired rotational orientation. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the guide element 52 can be fixedly attached to the support arm 42 (with a constant rotational orientation with respect to the support arm). In one aspect, the guide element 52 can have a base portion 54 proximate the second end 48 of the support arm 42. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, it is contemplated that the base portion 54 of the guide element 52 can be positioned at a predetermined angle 55 relative to the longitudinal axis 44 of the support arm 42. Optionally, the predetermined angle 55 of the base portion 54 of the guide element 52 can be an obtuse angle. Alternatively, the predetermined angle 55 of the base portion 54 of the guide element 52 can be an acute angle. In still a further optional configuration, the predetermined angle 55 of the base portion 54 of the guide element 52 is about 90 degrees. In exemplary aspects, the guide element 52 can be substantially L-shaped. In additional aspects, at least a portion of the guide element 52 can have an arcuate profile. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that an outer portion of the guide element 52 can be padded using conventional methods to thereby limit injuries to athletes in the event of incidental contact between the athletes and the guide element. Optionally, in these aspects, the outer portion of the guide element 52 can comprise at least one padded portion.

[0023] In use, it is contemplated that the length of the base assembly 20, the length of the support arm 42, the orientation angle 50 of the support arm 42, and the rotational orientation of the guide element 52 can be selectively adjustable to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete. As can be appreciated, the lengths of the base assembly 20 and support arm 42 and the orientation angle 50 can be selectively adjusted to account for the size (in particular, height) of the athlete. As can be further appreciated with reference to FIGS. 2A-2B, the rotational orientation of the guide element 52 can be selectively adjusted (by rotation of the guide element with respect to the support arm 42) to account for whether the athlete is left-handed or right-handed and/or to secure the guide element at a desired angular orientation with respect to the athlete (for comfort, to avoid swing interference, or other purposes).

[0024] FIGS. 1-2A depict an exemplary configuration of the training tool 10 for use by a right-handed athlete, whereas FIG. 2B depicts an exemplary configuration of the training tool for use by a left-handed athlete. In FIGS. 2A-2B, the athlete is schematically shown as having a first (leading) foot 100a and a second foot 100b. As shown, the first and second feet 100a, 100b are spaced apart relative to an axis 110, which, during normal use, will typically be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 22 of the base assembly 20. In use, the athlete stands proximate the second end 26 of the base assembly 20, facing away from the base assembly. There will typically be limited spacing between the base element 20 and the feet 100a, 100b of the athlete. When the guide element 52 is in an operative position, it is positioned generally between the knee and waist of the athlete. Thus, the guide element 52 and the base element 20 (for example, base elements 28a, 28b as further disclosed herein) do not restrict the athlete from swinging a bat, club, racket, or other equipment, but the guide element and the base element can cooperate to restrict movement of the athlete below the waist. In particular, it is contemplated that the guide element 52 can be configured to restrict lunging movement of the athlete below the waist, while the base element 20 can be configured to prevent the athlete from stepping out with his or her first foot 100a to move the first foot away from a plate (and potentially, out of a batter's box), away from a golf ball, or away from any other location where the athlete is facing

[0025] In a further aspect, the training tool 10 can further comprise means for locking the support arm 42 of the guide assembly 40 at the desired orientation angle 50. It is contemplated that any conventional mechanism for permitting selective adjustment of the relative angular orientation of two elements can be used, whether operated in a manual or automated manner. In exemplary aspects, as shown in FIGS. 1-2B, the means for locking the support arm 42 of the guide assembly 40 at the desired orientation angle 50 can comprise a plate 60 defining a plurality of openings 62 spaced along an arcuate path. In these aspects, the plate 60 can be secured to the base assembly 20. It is contemplated that the support arm 42 can define a first bore 45 between the first and second ends 46, 48 of the support arm. Upon pivoting of the support arm 42 relative to the base assembly 20, the first bore 45 of the support arm can be configured for movement relative to the arcuate path defined by the openings 62 of the plate 60. It is contemplated that, at the desired orientation angle 50, the first bore 45 of the support arm 42 can be in alignment with a corresponding opening 62 of the plate 60. It is further contemplated that the first bore 45 of the support arm 42 and the corresponding opening of the plate 60 can be configured to receive a pin 64 to lock the support arm at the desired orientation angle 50.

[0026] In exemplary aspects, as shown in FIGS. 1-2B, the base assembly 20 can comprise first and second spaced base elements 28a, 28b that extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 22 of the base assembly. In these aspects, it is contemplated that the first end 46 of the support arm 42 and the plate 60 (or other means for locking the support arm in position) can be received within the space between the first and second base elements 28a, 28b. Optionally, it is contemplated that each base element 28a, 28b can comprise at least one telescoping portion as further disclosed herein with respect to the base assembly 20. Optionally, it is further contemplated that a rod can extend between the first and second spaced base elements 28a, 28b, with the rod passing through an opening of the first end 46 of the support arm 42 to permit pivotal movement of the support arm relative to the base assembly 20. It is further contemplated that the rod can be secured to the plate 60 (or other means for locking the support arm in position) to provide stability to the plate during use of the training tool 10. In further exemplary aspects, the base assembly 20 can optionally comprise a plurality of platforms 30 upon which the remainder of the training tool 10 rests. In theses aspects, it is contemplated that the platforms 30 can provide clearance from the ground or other surface where the training tool 10 is to be used.

[0027] In exemplary aspects, at least a portion of the training tool 10 can comprise rubber. Optionally, in some exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the guide element 52 can comprise one or more rubber materials. Optionally, for example, it is contemplated that the one or more rubber materials can comprise at least one of silicone rubber, natural rubber, polyurethane, neoprene, and the like.

[0028] In additional exemplary aspects, at least a portion of the training tool 10 can comprise one or more plastic materials. Optionally, in some exemplary aspects, at least the base assembly 20 and the support arm 42 of the guide assembly 40 can comprise one or more plastic materials. For example, it is contemplated that the one or more plastic materials can optionally comprise at least one of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), and the like.

[0029] In further exemplary aspects, at least a portion of the training tool 10 can comprise one or more metal materials. Optionally, in some exemplary aspects, at least the base assembly 20 can comprise one or more metal materials. For example, it is contemplated that the one or more metal materials can optionally comprise at least one of aluminum, aluminum alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, iron, steel, stainless steel, cast iron, tool steel, alloy steel, and the like.

[0030] In still further exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the training tool 10 can be constructed of materials that are sufficiently light-weight to permit easy transport of the tool.

Training Methods

[0031] Also described herein is a method of training an athlete using the disclosed training tool. To assist in describing the method, it is understood that the athlete has two legs spaced apart relative to a first axis. In one aspect, the method can comprise positioning the training tool in spaced relation to the athlete such that the longitudinal axis of the base assembly of the training tool is substantially parallel to the first axis. In another aspect, the method can comprise selectively adjusting at least one of the length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete. In this aspect, the method can optionally comprise selectively adjusting two or more of the length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete. It is further contemplated that the method can optionally comprise selectively adjusting three or more of the length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete. It is still further contemplated that the method can optionally comprise selectively adjusting the length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete. In the selected position, the guide element can be configured to limit undesired movement of the athlete during a batting or swinging action. In a further aspect, the method of training can comprise locking the support arm of the guide assembly at the desired orientation angle.

[0032] Optionally, in exemplary aspects, the method can comprise securing a plate to the base assembly as disclosed herein. In these aspects, with the support arm positioning at the desired orientation angle, the method can further comprise inserting a pin through the first bore of the support arm and into the corresponding opening of the plate to lock the support arm at the desired orientation angle.

[0033] Although several embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in the foregoing specification, it is understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to which the invention pertains, having the benefit of the teaching presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. It is thus understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed hereinabove, and that many modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as well as in the claims which follow, they are used only in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the described invention, nor the claims which follow.

Claims

1. A training tool for training an athlete to avoid undesired movement during an activity, comprising: a base assembly having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end, wherein the base assembly has an adjustable length relative to the longitudinal axis; a guide assembly, comprising: a support arm having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end, wherein the support arm has an adjustable length relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first end of the support arm is pivotally connected to the first end of the base assembly, and wherein the support arm is configured for selective pivotal movement to adjust an orientation angle of the support arm, the orientation angle corresponding to the angular orientation of the longitudinal axis of the support arm relative to the longitudinal axis of the base assembly; and a guide element coupled to the second end of the support arm and configured for selective rotation relative to the longitudinal axis of the support arm to achieve a desired rotational orientation, wherein the guide element has a base portion proximate the second end of the support arm, and wherein the base portion of the guide element is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the support arm, wherein the length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element are selectively adjustable to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete.

2. The training tool of claim 1, wherein the length of the base assembly is selectively adjustable within a range of about 36 inches to about 48 inches.

3. The training tool of claim 1, wherein the length of the support arm is selectively adjustable within a range of about 24 inches to about 36 inches.

4. The training tool of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the training tool comprises rubber.

5. The training tool of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the training tool comprises plastic.

6. The training tool of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the training tool comprises metal.

7. The training tool of claim 1, wherein the orientation angle ranges from about 10 degrees to about 90 degrees.

8. The training tool of claim 1, further comprising means for locking the support arm of the guide assembly at a desired orientation angle.

9. The training tool of claim 8, wherein the means for locking the support arm of the guide assembly at the desired orientation angle comprises a plate defining a plurality of openings spaced along an arcuate path, the plate being secured to the base assembly, wherein the support arm defines a first bore between the first and second ends of the support arm, wherein, upon pivoting of the support arm relative to the base assembly, the first bore of the support arm is configured for movement relative to the arcuate path defined by the openings of the plate, wherein at the desired orientation angle, the first bore of the support arm is in alignment with a corresponding opening of the plate, and wherein the first bore of the support arm and the corresponding opening of the plate are configured to receive a pin to lock the support arm at the desired orientation angle.

10. The training tool of claim 1, wherein the predetermined angle of the base portion of the guide element is an obtuse angle.

11. The training tool of claim 1, wherein the predetermined angle of the base portion of the guide element is an acute angle.

12. The training tool of claim 1, wherein the predetermined angle of the base portion of the guide element is about 90 degrees.

13. A method of training an athlete to avoid undesired movement during an activity, the athlete having two legs spaced apart relative to a first axis, the method comprising: positioning a training tool in spaced relation to the athlete such that a longitudinal axis of a base assembly of the training tool is substantially parallel to the first axis, the base assembly having a first end, a second end, and an adjustable length relative to its longitudinal axis, the training tool further comprising a guide assembly, the guide assembly comprising: a support arm having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end, wherein the support arm has an adjustable length relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first end of the support arm is pivotally connected to the first end of the base assembly, and wherein the support arm is configured for selective pivotal movement to adjust an orientation angle of the support arm, the orientation angle corresponding to the angular orientation of the longitudinal axis of the support arm relative to the longitudinal axis of the base assembly; and a guide element coupled to the second end of the support arm and configured for selective rotation relative to the longitudinal axis of the support arm to achieve a desired rotational orientation, wherein the guide element has a base portion proximate the second end of the support arm, and wherein the base portion of the guide element is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the support arm; and selectively adjusting at least one of the length of the base assembly, the length of the support arm, the orientation angle of the support arm, and the rotational orientation of the guide element to position the guide element at a selected position relative to the athlete, wherein, in the selected position, the guide element is configured to limit undesired movement of the athlete during a swinging action.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising locking the support arm of the guide assembly at the desired orientation angle.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein locking the support arm at the desired orientation angle comprises: securing a plate to the base assembly, the plate defining a plurality of openings spaced along an arcuate path, wherein upon pivoting the support arm relative to the base assembly a first bore of the support arm between the first and second ends of the support arm is configured for movement relative to the arcuate path defined by the openings of the plate, wherein at the desired orientation angle, the first bore of the support arm is in alignment with a corresponding opening of the plate; and with the support arm positioning at the desired orientation angle, inserting a pin through the first bore of the support arm and into the corresponding opening of the plate to lock the support arm at the desired orientation angle.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the athlete is a baseball player, and wherein the activity is a batting activity.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the athlete is a softball player, and wherein the activity is a batting activity.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the athlete is a golfer, and wherein the activity is golfing.

Images