SPORTS SWING TRAINING SYSTEM, APPARATUS, AND METHOD

Abstract

A swing training apparatus comprises a base section and one or both of a swing plane training section and a hip attachment section. The base section can be adapted to rest on a support surface and include a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member. A batter area can be defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member. The swing training apparatus can be configurable with a swing plane training section and/or a hip attachment training section.

Description

SUMMARY

[0001] Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are directed to swing training systems, apparatuses, and methods, more particularly batting swing training for baseball.

[0002] According to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, a swing training apparatus or system can be provided or implemented. The swing training apparatus or system can comprise a base section and one or both of a swing plane training section and a hip attachment section. The base section can be adapted to rest on a support surface and include a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member. A batter area can be defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member. The swing training apparatus can be configurable with a swing plane training section and/or a hip attachment training section.

[0003] Additionally, one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can provide or implement a swing training apparatus. The swing training apparatus can comprise a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member. A batter area can be defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member. The swing training apparatus can be configurable with a swing plane training section and/or a hip attachment training section. The swing plane training section can include: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area. The hip attachment training section can include an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area.

[0004] One or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can involve a method regarding a swing training apparatus. The method can comprise: providing a swing training apparatus including: a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member. A batter area can be defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member. A swing plane training section can include: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area. The vertical member can be closer to the second horizontal member than the third horizontal member. The second horizontal member can extend perpendicularly from the first horizontal member. The third horizontal member can extend either perpendicularly or at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member.

[0005] According to one or more embodiments, a baseball batter swing training system or apparatus can be provided or implemented. The baseball batter swing training system or apparatus can be comprised of a base section, a swing plane training section, and a hip attachment training section. The base section can be adapted to rest on a support surface, where the base section can include: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member. A batter area can be defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member. The swing plane training section can include: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area. The hip attachment training section can include an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area. The angled member of the hip attachment training section can be closer to the third horizontal member than the vertical member and the fourth horizontal member of the swing plane training section are to the third horizontal member.

[0006] Embodiments can also include methods of providing, making, and/or using apparatuses and systems, or portions thereof, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Further, portions of operations and/or methods according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may be computer-implemented, at least in part, for instance, via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method.

[0007] The preceding summary is to provide an understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below. Also, while the disclosure is presented in terms of exemplary embodiments, it should be appreciated that individual aspects of the disclosure can be separately claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, are illustrative of one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and, together with the description, explain various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Further, the accompanying drawings have not necessarily been drawn to scale, and any values or dimensions in the accompanying drawings are for illustration purposes only and may or may not represent actual or preferred values or dimensions. Where applicable, some or all select features may not be illustrated to assist in the description and understanding of underlying features.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a swing training system or apparatus according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a side view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a front view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a top view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a top view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 4 adjusted relative to FIG. 4.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a top view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 4 adjusted relative to FIG. 4.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a swing training system or apparatus according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a swing training system or apparatus according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a use view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 8 according to an example of an acceptable swing.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a use view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 8 according to an example of an incorrect swing.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a use view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 8 according to an example of an acceptable swing.

[0020] FIG. 12 is a use view of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 8 according to an example of an incorrect swing.

[0021] FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 are consecutive use views of the swing training system or apparatus of FIG. 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various embodiments of the described subject matter and is not necessarily intended to represent the only embodiment(s). In certain instances, the description includes specific details for the purpose of providing an understanding of the described subject matter. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, structures and components may be shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the described subject matter. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or the like parts.

[0023] Any reference in the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, operation, or function described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, any appearance of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, the particular features, structures, characteristics, operations, or functions may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, and it is intended that embodiments of the described subject matter can and do cover modifications and variations of the described embodiments.

[0024] It must also be noted that, as used in the specification, appended claims and abstract, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. That is, unless clearly specified otherwise, as used herein the words "a" and "an" and the like carry the meaning of "one or more" or "at least one." The phrases "at least one," "one or more," "or," and "and/or" are open-ended expressions that can be both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions "at least one of A, B and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, or C," "A, B, and/or C," and "A, B, or C" can mean A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together. It is also to be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," and "having" can be used interchangeably.

[0025] It is to be understood that terms such as "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "side," "height," "length," "width," "upper," "lower," "interior," "exterior," "inner," "outer," and the like that may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not necessarily limit embodiments of the described subject matter to any particular orientation or configuration. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc. merely identify one of a number of portions, components, points of reference, operations and/or functions as described herein, and likewise do not necessarily limit embodiments of the described subject matter to any particular configuration or orientation.

[0026] Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are directed to swing training systems, apparatuses, and methods, more particularly batting swing training for baseball. On the other hand, though embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may be described in relation to swing in the context of baseball, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not so limited. That is, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can be implemented in other activities that involve a swinging motion (e.g., medicine ball throws, cricket, etc.), particularly where lateral movement during rotation may be undesirable.

[0027] Two metrics for defining success in baseball hitters can be consistency (e.g., batting average) and power (e.g., slugging percentage, number of home runs, etc.). In this regard, we can define or characterize consistency as a stable axis of rotation and power as an efficient separation and acceleration of select muscle groups in a sequence.

[0028] For instance, when a baseball player swings a bat he/she rotates from the ground up through the pelvis, torso, lead arm, and lead hand through the baseball bat. However, a common problem encountered when swinging a baseball bat is a lateral move forward during the rotation. This may be referred to as drifting or lunging. Drifting can delay acceleration of the pelvis, which, in turn, can delay and/or dampen the acceleration of the rest of the sequence. This can lead to a loss of power. Drifting can also negatively affect a batter's swing plane. In particular, drifting can cause the batter's axis of rotation to shift while trying to track and strike a moving object. This flaw may be compounded against higher velocity pitching. When a batter eliminates or minimizes drifting in the swing, a more consistent rotation can be achieved, along with improved tracking and timing, and/or an increased overall acceleration of the select muscle groups (pelvis, torso, lead arm, and lead hand).

[0029] An additional problem that may be encountered during swinging is separation of the select muscle groups, which may be referred to as "casting." When a baseball player swings a bat, it can be desirable to keep the bat tight to the body during the early stages of rotation and then release the bat from the body before contact. This can lead to a more efficient swing due to a tighter, more powerful rotation, and less distance to travel to the ball. In the early stages of the swing the pelvis and torso pull the arms, hands, and bat through the rotation. As the batter releases the bat from the body, the batter may first disconnect the arms from the torso, followed by the hand from the arm, and then the bat. However, some batters either fail to keep the bat close to the body initially (e.g., swinging with only arms), release the bat from the body too early, or never release the bat at all (which can cause a lack of acceleration in the lead arm/hand). Moreover, some batters can properly connect and separate for certain pitches (e.g., a high pitch), but may fail to do so correctly for other pitch locations (e.g., a low pitch).

[0030] Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can address one or both of the above-identified swing issues. That is, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can be directed to only controlling hip movement, can be directed to only controlling disconnect or separation, or can be directed to both controlling hip movement and disconnect or separation simultaneously. Optionally, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can be reconfigurable from one of the foregoing to another of the foregoing. Moreover, embodiments can be in the context of a pitched or moving ball (e.g., as opposed to a fixed ball, such as a ball provided on a tee, or swinging without a ball (i.e., dry hitting)) in an unknown plane from among multiple possible planes (e.g., as opposed to a single plane or a pre-set plane set prior to the pitch).

[0031] Generally speaking, aspects directed to controlling hip movement may be called or characterized herein as a hip attachment training section. The hip attachment training section may also be referred to as a hip restraint section, because this section can be used to stop or prevent the pelvis from moving laterally forward, i.e., toward the pitcher, once rotation begins. Though the hip attachment training section may limit hip movement in the lateral direction once rotation begins, the hip attachment training section can still allow for the linear move or "stride," i.e., a step forward and plant of the lead leg prior to swinging. Generally, the linear move in baseball can create potential energy and be used to "time" the pitcher. Thus, the hip attachment training section can enable the batter to learn how to stride properly, eliminating or minimizing undesirable linear movement during the rotation. The hip attachment training section can also provide a stable axis of rotation, which, discussed in more detail below, can be beneficial in the context of swing plane training. In some instances, for instance, when the hip attachment training section is used alone, the hip attachment training section may also be used with a fixed ball (e.g., a ball on a tee).

[0032] Generally speaking, aspects directed to controlling swing plane may be called or characterized herein as a swing plane training section. The swing plane training section may also be referred to herein as a pull-through or bat path training section, because it seeks to prevent premature disconnect in multiple swing planes by requiring the batter to keep the bat tight to the body during the early stages of rotation and then release the bat from the body before contact. The bat is thus moved according to a path whereby it is "pulled through" without contacting the swing plane training section, which can be representative of an acceptable coordination and timing of the select muscle groups.

[0033] The swing plane training section can prevent disconnection from multiple planes (i.e., horizontal and/or vertical disconnection). That is, the swing plane training section focuses on connecting the bat to the body during rotation and eliminating an issue commonly referred to as "casting," where the bat disconnects from the body early or never connects to the body at any point in the swing. Moreover, the swing plane training section can promote the batter's ability to connect the bat to the body early and then accelerate the lead arm and hand independently and yet in tandem with the pelvis and torso, and can be used to teach the batter how to hit all pitches with the same approach.

[0034] As alluded to above, the swing plane can be directly affected by lateral movement of the body, wherein embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can simultaneously address undesirable lateral movement in favor of a stable axis of rotation (rather than a variable axis of rotation) along with swing plane coordination and timing, again, particularly in the context of a moving or pitched ball. That is, once the stable axis of rotation is created by the hip attachment training section this can force the batter to correctly use the swing plane trainer (e.g., without unnatural movements solely to avoid the swing plane trainer). Thus, according to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, use of the swing plane training section in conjunction with the hip attachment training section can enable the batter to demonstrate a pure rotation while creating proper separation from the pelvis, to the torso, to the lead arm, to the lead hand, and ultimately to the bat.

[0035] Turning to the figures, FIGS. 1-4 show various views of a swing training system or apparatus 100 according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. The system 100 can be comprised of a base section 110, a swing plane training section 120, and a hip attachment training section 130. Generally, the base section 110 can provide a stable base for the swing plane training section 120 and the hip attachment training section 130 whereby the respective sections can stand "upright" according to their respective configurations without tipping over, at least when the batter has not hit or contacted the swing training system 100.

[0036] The base section 110 can be adapted to rest on a support surface (e.g., ground) and can include a first horizontal member 112, a second horizontal member 114, and a third horizontal member 116. The first horizontal member 112 can extend in a first direction, and the second horizontal member 114 and the third horizontal member 116 can extend from the first horizontal member 112. As shown, the second horizontal member 114 and the third horizontal member 116 can extend from a same side of the first horizontal member 112. Moreover, the second horizontal member 114 can extend from a first end of the first horizontal member 112 and the third horizontal member 116 can extend from a second end of the first horizontal member 112 opposite the first end.

[0037] A batter area 105 may be defined between the second horizontal member 114 and the third horizontal member 116 and on one side by the first horizontal member 112. As shown, the batter area 105 may be open on a side thereof opposite the first horizontal member 112. Moreover, the first horizontal member 112 can be longer than the second horizontal member 114 and/or the third horizontal member 116. Thus, the batter area 105 can be rectangular. Optionally, the first horizontal member 112 may be formed of multiple pieces or otherwise extendable and collapsible in length (e.g., telescoping tubes), for instance, to accommodate batters of different heights and/or strides, for instance.

[0038] The second horizontal member 114 and the third horizontal member 116 can extend at an angle from the first horizontal member 112. For instance, FIGS. 1-4 show the second horizontal member 114 and the third horizontal member 116 being perpendicular to the first horizontal member 112, though embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not so limited.

[0039] The second horizontal member 114 and/or the third horizontal member 116 may be formed in one piece or integral with the first horizontal member 112. Alternatively, the second horizontal member 114 and/or the third horizontal member 116 may be detachable from the first horizontal member 112. Hence, a connection interface 115 may be between the first horizontal member 112 and the second horizontal member 114. Likewise, a connection interface 117 may be between the first horizontal member 112 and the third horizontal member 116.

[0040] The connection interface 115 may be a separate piece or joint to which each of the first horizontal member 112 and the second horizontal member 114 can be removably connected. Likewise, the connection interface 117 may be a separate piece or joint to which each of the first horizontal member 112 and the third horizontal member 116 can be removably connected. Alternatively, the connection interface 115 can be a direct connection between the first horizontal member 112 and the second horizontal member 114, and the connection interface 117 can be a direct connection between the first horizontal member 112 and the third horizontal member 116.

[0041] According to one or more embodiments, the second horizontal member 114 and/or the third horizontal member 116 may be rotated relative to the first horizontal member 112 in the same plane as the first horizontal member 112. For instance, whichever of the second horizontal member 114 or the third horizontal member 116 is the lead horizontal member (depending upon the handedness of the batter), this horizontal member can be rotated away from the other of the second or third horizontal members 114, 116, for instance, to increase the area of the batter area 105. Thus, according to one or more embodiments, one (e.g., lead horizontal member) or both of the second horizontal member 114 and the third horizontal member 116 may extend at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member 112. According to one or more embodiments, the angle (e.g., perpendicular or obtuse) of the second horizontal member 114 and/or the third horizontal member 116 may be locked into place, for instance, via a snap lock, a tightening screw, a clamp, etc.

[0042] The swing plane training section 120 can include a vertical member 122 and a horizontal member 124, which may be referred to herein as a fourth horizontal member 124. The vertical member 122 can extend vertically from the first horizontal member 112, for instance, between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member 112, such as shown in FIGS. 1-4. The horizontal member 124 can extend horizontally from the vertical member 122, such as shown in FIGS. 1-4. Thus, the horizontal member 124 can extend in a direction of the batter area 105, and can extend over the batter area 105 in an overhead plan view of the swing training system 100.

[0043] The vertical member 122 can be closer to a rear or trailing horizontal member than a front or leading horizontal member. For instance, in FIGS. 1-4 the second horizontal member 114 can be the rear horizontal member. Hence, the vertical member 122 can be closer to the second horizontal member 114 than the third horizontal member 116 (which in this example can be the front or leading horizontal member).

[0044] The vertical member 122 can be movably connected to the first horizontal member 112 such so as to be movable (e.g., slidable or removable and reattachable) along a length (or a portion of the length) of the first horizontal member 112. Such movement can be to adjust the vertical member 122 according to the size (e.g., height, stride length, bat length, etc.) and/or skill level of the batter. Such movement can additionally or alternatively be for reconfiguring according to a handedness of the batter. The vertical member 122 can be locked into place along the length of the first horizontal member 112, for instance, via a snap lock, a tightening screw, a clamp, etc.

[0045] The horizontal member 124 can be movably connected to the vertical member 122. Thus, the horizontal member 124 can be adjusted (e.g., slidable or removable and reattachable) in a height direction along the length of the vertical member 122. Such movement can be to adjust the horizontal member 124 according to the size (e.g., height, stride length, bat length, etc.) and/or skill level of the batter. The horizontal member 124 can be locked into place along the length of the vertical member 122, for instance, via a snap lock, a tightening screw, a clamp, etc.

[0046] The horizontal member 124 can also be rotatable (including reattached at a different angle) relative to the vertical member 122. For instance, the horizontal member 124 can be repositioned (e.g., rotated or reattached) forward and/or rearward from the horizontal member 124 being perpendicular relative to the first horizontal member 112 (in an overhead plan view of the swing training system 100). FIG. 4, for instance, shows the horizontal member 124 being perpendicular to the first horizontal member 112 in an overhead plan view of the swing training system 100, whereas FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 show the horizontal member 124 angled rearward and forward, respectively, relative to the perpendicular configuration shown in FIG. 4. The horizontal member 124 can be locked into place according to a particular angle relative to the first horizontal member 112 (e.g., perpendicular, angled forward, or angled rearward), for instance, via a snap lock, a tightening screw, a clamp, etc.

[0047] The hip attachment training section 130 can include an angled member 132. The angled member 132 can extend from the first horizontal member 112 at an angle relative to the support surface (e.g., ground). Moreover, the angled member 132 can extend at the angle over the batter area 105. That is, the angled member 132 can extend in the direction of the batter area 105.

[0048] The angled member 132 can be closer to the front or leading horizontal member than the rear or trailing horizontal member. For instance, in FIGS. 1-4 the third horizontal member 116 can be the front horizontal member. Hence, the angled member 132 can be closer to the third horizontal member 116 than the second horizontal member 114 (which in this example can be the rear or trailing horizontal member).

[0049] The angled member 132 can be movably (e.g., slidably or reattached) connected to the first horizontal member 112 such so as to be movable along a length (or a portion of the length) of the first horizontal member 112. Such movement can be to adjust the angled member 132 according to the size (e.g., height, stride length, etc.) and/or skill level of the batter. Such movement can additionally or alternatively be for reconfiguring according to a handedness of the batter. The angled member 132 can be locked into place along the length of the first horizontal member 112, for instance, via a snap lock, a tightening screw, a clamp, etc.

[0050] The angled member 132 can also be rotatably (including reattached at different angles) connected to the first horizontal member 112. Such connection can be in order to change the angle of the angled member 132 relative to the support surface. Moreover, such movement can be to adjust the angled member 132 according to the size (e.g., height, stride length, etc.) and/or skill level of the batter. Such movement can additionally or alternatively be for reconfiguring according to a handedness of the batter.

[0051] Turning now to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, these figures show a swing training system 200 and a swing training system 300, respectively, according to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Swing training system 200 and/or swing training system 300 can be stand-along swing training systems or a reconfiguration of swing training system 100 above. Notably, swing training system 200 can include only the hip attachment training section 130 (and of course, the base section 110), whereas swing training system 300 can include only the swing plane training section 120 (and of course, the base section 110). The base section 110 of FIG. 8 also shows the third horizontal member 116 extending from the first horizontal member 112 at an obtuse angle (rather than perpendicular).

[0052] Turning to FIGS. 9-12, these figures show use views of the swing training system 300 of FIG. 8 (but with the third horizontal member 116 perpendicular to the first horizontal member 112). As noted above, the swing training system 300 can include only the swing plane training section 120 (and of course, the base section 110). Hence, the swing training system 300 can be directed to addressing swing plane issues.

[0053] The vertical member 122 can be to address horizontal swing plane issues. In this regard, FIG. 9 shows an example of an acceptable swing, whereas FIG. 10 shows an example of an unacceptable swing, at least as the swing pertains to the horizontal swing plan. Moreover, these examples can be representative of relatively high swings, for instance, responsive to a relatively high pitch. Notably, in FIG. 9 the batter 10 has remained connected such that the bat 12 has been kept tight to the body during the early stages of rotation and then the bat 12 released later in rotation such that the bat 12 has not contacted the vertical member 122 (or the horizontal member 124). In contrast, in FIG. 10 the batter 10 has not remained connected such that the bat 12 has been kept tight to the body during the early stages of rotation, and has prematurely released such that the bat 12 has contacted the vertical member 122.

[0054] The horizontal member 124 can be to address vertical swing plane issues. In this regard, FIG. 11 shows an example of an acceptable swing, whereas FIG. 12 shows an example of an unacceptable swing, at least as the swing pertains to the vertical swing plan. Moreover, these examples can be representative of relatively low swings, for instance, responsive to a relatively low pitch. Notably, in FIG. 11 the batter 10 has remained connected such that the bat 12 has been kept tight to the body during the early stages of rotation and then the bat 12 released later in rotation such that the bat 12 has not contacted the horizontal member 124 (or the vertical member 122). In contrast, in FIG. 12 the batter 10 has not remained connected such that the bat 12 has been kept tight to the body during the early stages of rotation, and has prematurely released such that the bat 12 has contacted the horizontal member 124.

[0055] Turning to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, these figures show use views of the swing training system 200 of FIG. 7. As noted above, the swing training system 200 can include only the hip attachment training section 130 (and of course, the base section 110). Hence, the swing training system 200 can be directed to addressing hip movement issues, such as variable axis of rotation issues. Here, the angled member 132 can be set (i.e., angled) according to the stride of the batter 10. More specifically, the angle member 132 can be set to where the lead hip of the batter 10 will be when the front heel begins to plant on the support surface (e.g., ground). This may be when the front toes touch the support surface, though some batters may drift forward before the rotation begins (which may be acceptable). As can be seen in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the lead hip of the batter 10 can be prevented from further lateral movement in the forward direction (e.g., toward the pitcher) by the angled member 132. Rotation can begin once the lead hip of the batter 10 is at the angle member 132, such as shown in FIG. 13, and the batter 10 can proceed with the rotation action with the lead hip "attached" to the angled member 132. As discussed above, this can provide a stable axis of rotation for the remaining swing.

[0056] Some or all of the members, that is, the first horizontal member 112, the second horizontal member 114, the third horizontal member 116, the vertical member 122, the fourth horizontal member 124, and the angled member 132, can be elongate tubes (e.g., PVC pipe) or solid elongate members, such as bars, or a combination of the two, as non-limiting examples.

[0057] As noted above, the swing training system, including portions thereof, particularly the swing plane training section 120 and/or the hip attachment training section 130, can be reconfigurable for both left-hand and right-hand batters. For instance, the vertical member 122 of the swing plane training section 120 can be adapted to be rotated toward the batter area 105 and have the fourth horizontal member 124 removed to convert to the hip attachment training section 130, and the angled member 132 of the hip attachment training section 130 can be adapted to be rotated away from the batter area 105 so as to be vertical and to have the removed fourth horizontal member 124 provided thereon so as to extend therefrom in the direction of the batter area 105, to convert to the swing plane training section 120.

[0058] As another example, in the case where only the swing plane training section 120 is implemented, the vertical member 122 can be moved (e.g., slide or reattached) along the length of the first horizontal member 112 from one end to the other to switch from right-hand to left-hand or vice versa. Likewise, in the case where only the hip attachment training section 130 is implemented, the angled member 132 can be moved (e.g., slide or reattached) along the length of the first horizontal member 112 from one end to the other to switch from right-hand to left-hand or vice versa.

[0059] Provided now is a general description of an exemplary implementation of swing training systems or apparatuses, or portions thereof, such as those described above, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0060] According to one or more embodiments, the swing training system or apparatus can be set in line with a back foot of the batter.

[0061] First the base section 110 can be assembled and placed on a support surface, such as ground. For instance, the first horizontal member 112 can be oriented on the part of the batter's box that is closest to home plate.

[0062] The hip attachment training section 130 can also be provided, either with the base section 110 or removably attached to the base section 110. For sizing purposes, the batter can stand within the batter area 105 defined by the base section 110. The batter can then move to a position that initiates his or her particular swing. This may be called the launch, the load, or the stride position. The hip attachment training section 130 can be adjusted in angle and/or length (and optionally along a length of the first horizontal member 112) so as to touch the front hip of the batter once the batter is in this position. More specifically, the angled member 132 of the hip attachment training section 130 can extend from the first horizontal member 112 orthogonally and can be arranged so as to rest on the batter's front hip when the batter is in the launch, load, or stride position. Moreover, the hip attachment training section 130 can connect to the base section 110 behind the front knee. The arrangement of the hip attachment training section 130 can be set (e.g., locked) so as to remain fixed relative to the base section 110 during live swings of the batter.

[0063] The swing plane training section 120 can also be provided, either with the base section 110 or removably attached to the base section 110. The swing plane training section 120 can be provided so as to be lined up with or behind the rear foot of the batter. This may involve adjustment of the vertical member 122 along the length of the first horizontal member 112 (e.g., sliding or reattached). The horizontal member 124 can be adjusted and set based on the size of the batter (e.g., height), the length of the bat, and/or the batter's skill level. For instance, the horizontal member 124 may be set between the height of the player's back knee and the player's back hip. Generally, the lower the height of the horizontal member 124 the more room the batter has for error. Moreover, providing the swing plane training section 120 behind the batter's rear foot may provide more room for batter error, whereas lined up with the rear foot may provide for less room for batter error. The horizontal member 124 can also be rotated about the vertical member 122 forward and/or rear of perpendicular to the first horizontal member 112 to change difficulty.

[0064] For a particular batting session of a particular batter, the hip attachment training section 130 can always remain where the hip is after the batter has taken his or her stride. The batter can thus work on swinging with or without stride as long as the rear foot starts in the same position or substantially the same position.

[0065] Optionally, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can capture swing data during use of the swing training system or apparatus. For instance, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can include one or more sensors (e.g., provided in one or more of the members, such as the vertical member 122 and/or the horizontal member 124) to capture where and/or when in the swing process the batter's bat contacted the swing plane training section 120. Optionally, an audible and/or visual indicator of the transgression may be output to the batter in real time, for instance.

[0066] According to one or more embodiments, swing data can be recorded and tracked using one or more cameras and corresponding computer processing components (e.g., memory, a processor, etc.) to receive and process the swing data. For instance, K-motion baseball, or an analogous system, can track the movements of the pelvis, torso, lead arm, and lead hand during a swing. Data, such as acceleration, deceleration, the peaks of the curves, the timing of the curves in relation to heel strike and contact, the overlap of the curves, and the vertical gap between curves, can be captured and analyzed.

[0067] Data capture and processing aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a "circuit," "circuitry," "module" or "system." Any combination of one or more computer readable storage medium(s) may be utilized. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, device, or portion thereof.

[0068] Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may also be as set forth according to the parentheticals in the following paragraphs.

[0069] (1) A baseball batter swing training system comprising: a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member, wherein a batter area is defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member; a swing plane training section including: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area; and a hip attachment training section including an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area, wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is closer to the third horizontal member than the vertical member and the fourth horizontal member of the swing plane training section are to the third horizontal member.

[0070] (2) The baseball batter swing training system according to (1), wherein the second horizontal member extends perpendicularly from the first horizontal member, and wherein the third horizontal member extends either perpendicularly or at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member.

[0071] (3) The baseball batter swing training system according to (1) or (2), wherein the baseball batter swing training system is ambidextrous and configurable for left-hand and right-hand batters, wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is adapted to be rotated toward the batter area and have the fourth horizontal member removed to convert to the hip attachment training section, and wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is adapted to be rotated away from the batter area so as to be vertical and to have the removed fourth horizontal member provided thereon so as to extend therefrom in the direction of the batter area to convert to the swing plane training section.

[0072] (4) The baseball batter swing training system according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the fourth horizontal member is rotatable in either direction from perpendicular to the first horizontal member of the base section in an overhead plan view of the baseball batter swing training system.

[0073] (5) The baseball batter swing training system according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the fourth horizontal member is adjustable in a height direction along a length of the vertical member.

[0074] (6) The baseball batter swing training system according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is slidably adjustable along at least a portion of a length of the first horizontal member.

[0075] (7) The baseball batter swing training system according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is slidably adjustable along at least a portion of a length of the first horizontal member.

[0076] (8) A method comprising: providing a swing training apparatus including: a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member, wherein a batter area is defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member; and a swing plane training section including: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area, wherein the vertical member is closer to the second horizontal member than the third horizontal member, wherein the second horizontal member extends perpendicularly from the first horizontal member, and wherein the third horizontal member extends either perpendicularly or at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member.

[0077] (9) The method according to (8), further comprising adjusting the swing plane training section based on size and/or skill level of a batter using the swing training apparatus.

[0078] (10) The method according to (8) or (9), wherein the swing training apparatus further includes a hip attachment training section having an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area.

[0079] (11) The method according to any one of (8) to (10), further comprising adjusting the hip attachment training section based on size and/or skill level of a batter using the swing training apparatus.

[0080] (12) The method according to any one of (8) to (11), further comprising electronically capturing swing data during use of the swing training apparatus.

[0081] (13) The method according to any one of (8) to (12), wherein the swing training apparatus is ambidextrous and configurable for left-hand and right-hand batters, and wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is repositionable along a length of the first horizontal member to be positioned closer to the third horizontal member than the second horizontal member to change handedness.

[0082] (14) A swing training apparatus comprising: a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member, wherein a batter area is defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member, wherein the swing training apparatus is configurable with a swing plane training section and/or a hip attachment training section, wherein the swing plane training section includes: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area, and wherein the hip attachment training section includes an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area.

[0083] (15) The swing training apparatus according to (14), wherein the second horizontal member extends perpendicularly from the first horizontal member, and wherein the third horizontal member extends either perpendicularly or at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member.

[0084] (16) The swing training apparatus according to (14) or (15), wherein the swing training system is ambidextrous and configurable for left-hand and right-hand batters, wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is adapted to be rotated toward the batter area and have the fourth horizontal member removed to convert to the hip attachment training section, and wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is adapted to be rotated away from the batter area so as to be vertical and to have the removed fourth horizontal member provided thereon so as to extend therefrom in the direction of the batter area to convert to the swing plane training section.

[0085] (17) The swing training apparatus according to any one of (14) to (16), wherein the fourth horizontal member is adjustable in a height direction along a length of the vertical member.

[0086] (18) The swing training apparatus according any one of (14) to (17), wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is adjustable so as to change an angle thereof relative to the support surface.

[0087] (19) The swing training apparatus according to any one of (14) to (18), wherein the first horizontal member is longer than each of the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member.

[0088] (20) The swing training apparatus according to any one of (14) to (19), further comprising circuitry configured to provide audible and/or visual feedback in real time responsive to a swing of a batter.

[0089] Having now described embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is merely illustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of example only. Thus, although particular configurations have been discussed and illustrated herein, other configurations can be and are also employed. Further, numerous modifications and other embodiments (e.g., combinations, rearrangements, etc.) are enabled by the present disclosure and are contemplated as falling within the scope of the disclosed subject matter and any equivalents thereto. Features of the disclosed embodiments can be combined, rearranged, omitted, etc., within the scope of described subject matter to produce additional embodiments. Furthermore, certain features may sometimes be used to advantage without a corresponding use of other features. Accordingly, Applicant intends to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and variations that are within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Further, it is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A baseball batter swing training system comprising: a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member, wherein a batter area is defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member; a swing plane training section including: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area; and a hip attachment training section including an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area, wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is closer to the third horizontal member than the vertical member and the fourth horizontal member of the swing plane training section are to the third horizontal member.

2. The baseball batter swing training system according to claim 1, wherein the second horizontal member extends perpendicularly from the first horizontal member, and wherein the third horizontal member extends either perpendicularly or at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member.

3. The baseball batter swing training system according to claim 1, wherein the baseball batter swing training system is ambidextrous and configurable for left-hand and right-hand batters, wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is adapted to be rotated toward the batter area and have the fourth horizontal member removed to convert to the hip attachment training section, and wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is adapted to be rotated away from the batter area so as to be vertical and to have the removed fourth horizontal member provided thereon so as to extend therefrom in the direction of the batter area to convert to the swing plane training section.

4. The baseball batter swing training system according to claim 1, wherein the fourth horizontal member is rotatable in either direction from perpendicular to the first horizontal member of the base section in an overhead plan view of the baseball batter swing training system.

5. The baseball batter swing training system according to claim 1, wherein the fourth horizontal member is adjustable in a height direction along a length of the vertical member.

6. The baseball batter swing training system according to claim 1, wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is slidably adjustable along at least a portion of a length of the first horizontal member.

7. The baseball batter swing training system according to claim 1, wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is slidably adjustable along at least a portion of a length of the first horizontal member.

8. A method comprising: providing a swing training apparatus including: a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member, wherein a batter area is defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member; and a swing plane training section including: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area, wherein the vertical member is closer to the second horizontal member than the third horizontal member, wherein the second horizontal member extends perpendicularly from the first horizontal member, and wherein the third horizontal member extends either perpendicularly or at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising adjusting the swing plane training section based on size and/or skill level of a batter using the swing training apparatus.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein the swing training apparatus further includes a hip attachment training section having an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising adjusting the hip attachment training section based on size and/or skill level of a batter using the swing training apparatus.

12. The method according to claim 8, further comprising electronically capturing swing data during use of the swing training apparatus.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein the swing training apparatus is ambidextrous and configurable for left-hand and right-hand batters, and wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is repositionable along a length of the first horizontal member to be positioned closer to the third horizontal member than the second horizontal member to change handedness.

14. A swing training apparatus comprising: a base section adapted to rest on a support surface, the base section including: a first horizontal member, a second horizontal member extending from a first side of the first horizontal member at a first end of the first horizontal member, and a third horizontal member extending from the first side of the first horizontal member at a second end of the first horizontal member opposite the first end of the first horizontal member, wherein a batter area is defined between the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member, wherein the swing training apparatus is configurable with a swing plane training section and/or a hip attachment training section, wherein the swing plane training section includes: a vertical member extending vertically from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, and a fourth horizontal member extending from the vertical member in a direction of the batter area, and wherein the hip attachment training section includes an angled member extending at an angle from the first horizontal member of the base section between the first and second ends of the first horizontal member, the angled member extending at the angle in the direction of the batter area.

15. The swing training apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the second horizontal member extends perpendicularly from the first horizontal member, and wherein the third horizontal member extends either perpendicularly or at an obtuse angle from the first horizontal member.

16. The swing training apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the swing training system is ambidextrous and configurable for left-hand and right-hand batters, wherein the vertical member of the swing plane training section is adapted to be rotated toward the batter area and have the fourth horizontal member removed to convert to the hip attachment training section, and wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is adapted to be rotated away from the batter area so as to be vertical and to have the removed fourth horizontal member provided thereon so as to extend therefrom in the direction of the batter area to convert to the swing plane training section.

17. The swing training apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the fourth horizontal member is adjustable in a height direction along a length of the vertical member.

18. The swing training apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the angled member of the hip attachment training section is adjustable so as to change an angle thereof relative to the support surface.

19. The swing training apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the first horizontal member is longer than each of the second horizontal member and the third horizontal member.

20. The swing training apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the swing training apparatus is adapted to be operational with moving baseballs provided at unknown planes prior to pitching.