GB2496642A

GB2496642A - A swing and feet alignment aid for when playing golf

Info

Publication number: GB2496642A
Application number: GB1119852.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Jeffrey John Killman
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-11-17
Filing date: 2011-11-17
Publication date: 2013-05-22
Also published as: GB201119852D0

Abstract

A golf training apparatus comprising an elongate feet alignment member 114, an elongate swing alignment member 124 to provide a visual indication of an intended path for a club head and a linkage 130 between the two alignment members wherein the linkage 130 is configured to permit movement of the alignment members relative to each other. The linkage 130 may be arranged to allow the angle, distance or offset of the alignment members to change. A scissor type linkage arrangement with a pair of crossed linkages 130 and 132 may be employed and may include means to lock it in position. The alignment members may be extendable, the device may be arranged to support a golf club and a golf ball gripper may be provided. The linkage 130 may be designed to minimise contrast with a background and the device may be arranged to collapse for transporting.

Description

TRAINING APPARATUS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS FOR GOLF

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a golf training apparatus, and associated methods. In particular, but not exciusively. the invention relates to a trahitng apparatus, and associated methods, for use in practicing and/or teaching a user to align a got! swing.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

hi order to play got! effectively, it is preferable to consistently control trajectories of a gait ball. The trajectory of the ball determines how far the ball travels towards a target and how far the ball deviates from a desired path towards the target.

Accordingly, it is important to control striking of the got! baH effected by swinging a gaff club. The path of the gaff cRib, indinstions of the golf club's shaft and face, and accelerations and velocities of the golf dub during the swing are factors that contribute to the ultimate trajectory of the ball. Such factors can be influenced by the user's setup prior to commencing the swing.

The user's stance at setup can have direct and indirect effects on the swing.

For example, a separation between the user3s feet can influence balance during the swing; or influence an elevation of the golf dub, thus affecting oft and/or horizontS direction of a resultant shot. Likewise, a separation between the user's feet and the ball can influence the trajectory of the resultant shot. Typically, different clubs require a different separation between the feet and a different separation between the feet and the ball. Different dubs range in shaft length and loft: for example a pitching wedge may have a oft angle of 45 degrees and a shaft length of 90cm, whereas a driver may have a oft angle of 10 degrees and a shalt length of 115cm depending on the user. Accordingly, the user may need to stand coser to the bafl, with the feet closer together, to hit a shot with a pitching wedge, compared to a stance for hitthig a shot with a driver.

For most shots with most clubs, there is generaHy a carrelalion between an aNgnrnent of the users feet relative to a target and the baws trajectory. The agnment of the users feet relative to the target influences the direction the ball wiH take. The drecUon is also influenced by the users swing. Typicafly a user wUl try to align theft feet such that a virtua straight line between the tips of his feet extends towards the target, such as a hole on a green. Simflarly, a user typicay tries to agn his swing owards the target.

Where a users feet are misaligned rSative to the target and the swing is misagned relative to the target, the baU often ends up following a trajectory that deviates from a desired path towards the target according to the misalignment.

Effectivy the user may have made a correct swing: however the shot is not directed towards the target, and may go straight towards where his feet and swing were aiming at set-up. More commonly the user's feet and swing are not equally misaligned, such that the user either misaligns his feet or misaUgns his swing relative to the target (or misaligns his Feet more or less than he misagns his swing). Where there is a thscrepancy between feet alignment and swing alignment, the resultant trajectory of the ball often deviates from the desired path towards the target, such as pulling or hooking to the left, or fading or slicing to the right.

Golf aids such as pairs of rods can be used to assist in agnThg the feet and/or swing. The user or a teacher generally aligns each individual rod as desired to provided a required visual guidance,

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a golf training apparatus for use in as&sting a user to address a golf ball.

The apparatus may comprise: a feet alignment longitudinal member configured to guide alignment between a user's feet: a swing alignment longitudinal member configured to provide a visual indication of an intended path of a golf club head through a ball posifion; and a linkage between the feet agnment longitudinal member and the swing alignment longitudinal member; wherein the linkage is configured to permit relative adjustment between the longitudinal members.

The apparatus may be reconfigurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the lirat configuration being a transport configuration with the apparatus collapsed for transportation (eg. with a golf bag), and the second configuration being a use configuration with the apparatus extended for aligning a user's feet arid swing.

The relative adjustment between the longitudinal members may comprise an adjustment of a sepation between the longitudinal members.

The linkage may be configured to control an orientation of the swing alignment member relative to the feet alignment member, such as during adjustment and/or reconfiguration. The orientation of the swing alignment member relative to the feet alignment member may be fixed. The orientation of the swing alignment member relative to the feet alignment member may be variable.

The feet alignment member may be configured to provide a substantially linear alignment between a user's left foot and a user's right fooL The connection may be iricficatve of a users feet agnment reave [a a target or desired dfrecton.

For examp, a user may first agn the Feet agnment member with a target or desfted direction, and subsequenfly &gn their feet with the feet ahgnment member.

The ohentaticn of the swing ahgomerit member rSafive to the feet aHgnment member may comprise a reiative angle between the feet alignment longitudinal member and the swing agnment ongitudilnal member, such as a planar (e.g. substantially horizontal) angle between the Feet alignment longitudinal member and the swng allgnment longitudinal member, The nkage may be configured to control the ralative angle during reconfiguration. The nkage may be configured to permit variation of the relative angle. The linkage may be configured to sectively vary the relative angle. The linkage may be configured to maintain the angle between the feet alignment longitudhial member and the swing aUgnment longitudinal member. The angle may be. a predetermined angle. For exampk, the angle may be set by the user.

The linkage may be configured to maintain the feet agnment ongitudinal member parallel to the swing aUgnment longitudinal member, such as during reconfiguration.

For example, the angle may be zero.

The nkage may he configured to control a lateral position of the swing ahgnrnent longitudinal member relative to the feet aUgnment longttudinal member.

The lateral position may comprise the separation between the longitudinal members.

The linkage may be configured to selectively vary the lateral position of the swing aHgnment longitudinal member relative to the feet agnmenL longitudinal member.

The linkage may comprise a first nk member. The first link member may be pivotay connected to the feet alignment member. The first ink member may he pivotaily connected to the swing alignment member.

The linkage may comprise a second ink member. The second link member may be pivotaHy connected to the leet alignment member. The second link member may be pivotaliy connected to the swing alignment member.

The linkage may define an extending scissors mechanism [or the swing alignment member r&ative to the feet alignment member, The first link member may he pivotaliy connected to the second link member.

The linkage may comprise a linkage pivot, the linkage pivot connecting the first and second link members such as directly connecting the First and second ink members (eg centrafly to form a cross with the first and second ink members). The swing It) alignment member may comprise a swing pivot fore slot for receiving a first link member swing pivot. The swing alignment member may comprise a swing pivot aft slot for receiving a second link member swing pivot. The feet alignment member may comprise a feet pivot aft slot for receiving a first ink member feet pivot. The feet alignment member may comprise a feet pivot lore slot for receiving a second link 1 5 member feet pivot. The/each slot may be configured to slidably receive the respective pivot. The/each pivot may be lockable, For example, the first link member swing pivot may be lockable relative to the swing pivot fore slot (e.g. when the swing alignment longitudinal member is in a desired configuration). The linkage pivot may be lockable relative to the first and second link members, such that a configuration of the apparatus may be substantially fixed by locking the linkage pivot (eg in the transportation configuration and/or the use configuration).

The linkage and the longitudinal members may define a quadrilateral therebetween, such as a parallelogram.

The feet alignment longitudinal member and/or the swing alignment longitudinal member may be configured to be substantially groun&enqaging in use (e.g. substantially adjacent the ground, such as lying on the ground), The feet ahgnment ong udinal member and/ar the swing aHgnment longitudinal member may be configured to He substantiaHy horizontally on a ground surface. For example, the apparatus may comprise a substantially planar apparatus in the second configuration.

The feet agnment longitudinal member and/or the swing alignment longituthna; member may be substantiaUy linear. The feet aHgnment longitudinal member and/or the swing aflgnment longitudin member may comprise a strip and/or a rod. The feet aHgnrnent longitudinal member and/or the swing aRgnment longitudinal member may comprise a rigidity in at least one direction substantially perpendicular to is/theft longitudinal ax'/es. The feet aHgnment longitudinal member and/or the swing aHgnment longitudinal member may be substentiahy rigid.

The feet alignment longitudinal member and/or the swing alignment longitudinal member may comprise mulfiple longituthnal elements, Th.e feet alignment longitudinal member and/or the swing aHgnment longitudinal member may comprise an extending longitudinal elementfs, such as a telescopic ongitudinal element/s.

The First link member may be disconnectable from the feet aHgnment member. The first Hnk member may be disconnectable from the swing aflgnment member. The second link member may be disconnectable from the feet alignment member. The second link member may disconnectable from the swing alignment member. The first ink member may be disconnectable from the second link member.

For example the/each link member/s may comprise a connector portion/s (eg the/each pivotis may comprise a snap4it connector / recess).

The first and/or second link member/s may be nondetachabie from each other and/or from the feet and/or swing alignment member/s.

The feet aUgnment member may be configured to abut a users feet, such as horizontaUy and/or verlicafly abutting both a left and a right foot simultaneously. The feet alignment member may be configured to receive a user's feet. For example, the feet ahgnment member may comprise a recess and/or marking for guiding a placement of a user's feet. The recess may be a substantiay vertical recess, such as a depression in an upper portion of the feet agnment member (ag. for standing on). AdditionaHy, or alternatively, the recess may be a substant ly horizontal recess, such as an indent in a abe portion of the feet agnment member (e.g. for standing in), The swing alignment member may be configured to receive a golf balL For example the swing agnnient member may comprise an aperture for receiving a golf 1.0 bafl and/or a golf tee. The swing agnment member may comprise a pluraty of apertures for receMng a goW ba and/or a golf tee-Each aperture may correspond to a predetermined position, such as a predetermined position for use with a particular club. For example, a foremost aperture may correspond to a ba position for effecting a golf swing with a driver or other ow lofted dubs; and/or for effecting a golf swing For imparting a particular spin on a golf baD (e.g. side spin and/or back spin).

The swing allgnment member may comprise a guide portion, such as a guide pordon inthcative of a desired swingpath/s. For example, the swing alignment member may comprise a curved portion, such as an intermediate arcuate portion between opposite end portions of the swing alignment member.

The linkage may be adjustable to selectivdy vary the angle between the tóet aUgnment longitudinal member and the swing aDgnment longitudinal member. The Dnkage may be configured to selectively vary the angle between the Feet alignment ongitudinal member and the swing alignment longitudinal member according to a predetermined user setting. The linkage may be configured to s&ectively vary the 2.5 angle between the feet alignment longitudinal member and the swing alignment longitudinal member accorthng to a separafion of the feet agnment ongftudinal member from the swing alignment longituthnal member.

The feet aUgnment longftudinal member may comprise a left foot and/or a right foot positioning guide/s. For example, the feet agnment member may comprise a gradated scale on an upper surface for indicating a position/s of a left foot and/or a right foot longitudinaUy along the feet aHgnment member. The guide/s may be user definable, The guide/s may be configured to indicate an appropriate foot position/s according to an intended dub (eg. a wider stance icr a driver compared to a wedge).

The guide/s may be configured to indicate an appropriate foot position/s according to a desired shot lype (e.g. a stance further left tar a fade or an uphiH lie, compared to a stance further right for a draw or a downhHl xe). The guide/s may be configured to accommodate a configuration of the apparatus. such as the separation of the swing agnment member from the feet agnrnent member. For example, the apparatus may comprise at least one foot positioning indicator. The foot positioning indicator may be connected to the swing aDgurnent member and/or the linkage and/or the feet ahgnment member, The fOot positioning indicator may be adjustable. For example the foot positioning indicator may be useNadjustable to allow a user to cabrate the foot positioning indicator to a users preference (e.g. to accommodate different users' heights). The foot positioning indicator may be connected to the Unkage such that foot positioning indicator automaticaHy adjusts an indicated foot position according to a reconfiguration of the apparatus (e.g. a wider stance for a greater separation of the swing and feel aligrunent members).

The apparatus may be configured to position the swing alignment member longitudinally relative to the feet Mgnment member and/or the user. The linkage may be configured to control a longitudinal position of the swing alignment longitudinal member relative to the feet ahgnment longitudinal member. The linkage may be configured to maintain a relative longitudinal position of the swing aUgnment longitudinal member during reconfiguration, such as equay aft (e.g. left) and/or fore (e.g. right) of the feet Sgnment longitudinal member in a stance during variation in separation between the swing and feet agnment members. For example, the Unkage may be configured to maintain a first end portion (such as a swing tore end) of the swing agnment member substantially equidistant from the target as a first end portion of the feet a!ignment member (such as a feet fore end), Additionay, or alternatively, the linkage may be configured to provide an offset between a ongtudinal positbn of the swing aUgnment member and a longftudinal posWon of the feet aVgnment member and/or the user. A longitudinal position of the swing agnrnent member relative to the feet agnment member and/or the user may be adjustable.

The apparatus may comprise a fiat and/or planar profile. For example, the Sng agnmerit member and/or the swing pivots and/or the Unkage may he configured to project no higher than a goW tee, such that a golf tee may be placed in!on(adjacent to the swing agnrnent member for striking a golf ball without contact between a club and the apparatus.

The first link member and/or the second ink member and/or the feet aUgnment member andlor the swing alignment member may each be substantiaHy arranged in a respective plane. The respecflve planes may be different. For example, each of the four members may be arranged in a separate pne such that all of the members substantiaily overlap in the transport configuration. The apparatus in the transport configuration may comprise a total thickness equivalent to a sum of the thicknesses of the indMdual members. The apparatus in the transport configuration may comprise a total width equivalent Ic a maximum width of an individual member.

At east two of the respective planes may be the same. For example, at least two of the members may be substantiaHy arranged in a same piano such that the apparatus in the transport configuration may comprise a total thickness equivalent to a sum of the thicknesses of vo members; or of three members. The apparatus in the transport configuration may comprise a total width equiv&ent to a sum of the widths of two indMdual members.

The apparatus may be collapsible for transportation; for example in a golf bag. The apparatus may be configured for access from a gaff bag. For example, a tthal length of the apparatus in the transport configuration may be sufficiently longer than an internal height of the bag. Providing an apparatus of such length in the transport configuration may enable a first end portion the apparatus to rest on an internal base of the hag, with an opposite end portion of the apparatus protruding from the bag to allow a user to grip the oppo&te end porUon for remov of the apparatus from the bag (eg the apparatus in the transport configuration may comprise a total length simar to a length of a golf dub, such as an average length gotf club).

The apparatus may be configured for letthanded and/or righUhanded users.

The apparatus may be configured to guide alignment of a user's left and right feet and to provide an indication of an intended swing of a golf club head to the right and/or to the left. For example, the apparatus may comprise alignment features substantially symmetrical about an axis perpendicular to the feet alignment member.

The apparatus may be bidirectional, The apparatus may be reversible. The feet alignment member and the swing aHgnrnent member may be configured to be used interchangeably for left-handed users relative to righthanded users (e.g. the swing aUgnmeni member may be configured to be used as the feet alignment member by left-handed users).

The apparatus may be mpactresistant. For example, the apparatus may comprise a synthetic material configured to absorb impact stress, such as impact stress from contact with a golf dub and/or ball.

The apparatus may be longitudinay extensible. For examp'e, the feet aflgnment long tudin member and/or the swing aHgnment longitudinal member may be telescopic and/or hinged.

The feet alignment longitudinal member and/or the swing agnment longitudinal member may be configured to contrast with a background. For example, the feet agnment longthidinal member and/or the swing aUgnment longitudinal member may comprise a light colour (eg. a white and/cr a yellow and/or a red colour/a) to contrast with a dark background (e.g. a grass or synthetic grass surface).

The nkage may be configured to minimise contrast with a background, such as to blend with a background. For example, the linkage may comprise a green colour to match the grass or syiithetic grass surface.

The apparatus may be configured to support at east one golf club (e.g. to carry at least one golf club). The apparatus may comprise a golf club engagement element, such as a receMng portion (e.g. aperture, hook, recess such as a snap-fit recess). The apparatus may comprise multiple golf club engagement elements (e.g for receMng multiple golf dubs).

The apparatus may comprise at least one golf club, The apparatus may comprise a carryhandle. The carry-handle may be positioned above a centre of gravity of the apparatus (such as a centre of gravity of the apparatus when the apparatus compmises at east one golf club).

The apparatus may comprise a golf ball gripping portion. For example, the apparatus may comprise a golf ball cup, such as at an end portion of at least one of the alignment members. The gripping portion may be configured for gof bS retrieval.

such as from a water hazard.

The apparatus may be configured to stand at an angle to the ground, such as uDnght. The apparatus may be configured to adjust an angle between the ongitudinai member/s and the ground. For exampe, the/each alignment member/s may comprise a ground support such as a spike (and/or a taper and/or a foot) at an end portion of the alignment member. Accordingly, the apparatus may be configured to provide an indication of a swing pane and/or to define a target window for hitting a bSl through.

a An apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention may be used to assist in training a user to strike an object, such as a golf bafl.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assisting a user to address a golf balL the method comprising: adjusting a feet longitudinal alignment member relative to a swing alignment brigitudinal member as permitted by a linkage between the feet agnment longitudinal member and the swing aUgnment longitudinal member; guiding agnment between a user's feet with the Met alignment longitudinal member; and vsually indicating an intended path of a gaff club heed through a ba position with the swing alignment longitudmal member.

The method may comprise guiding alignment between the users feet prior In relatively adjusting the aRgnment members. The method may comprise guiding alignment between the users feet subsequent to relatively adjusting the alignment members.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assisting a user to address a golf baH using an apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention, the method comprising: adjusting a feet longitudinal aUgnment member relative to a swing alignment $ longitudinal member as permitted by a finkage between the Feet alignment longitudinal member and the swing alignment longitudinal member; agning the feet aHgnment member with a target or desired direction; and aligning (he users feet with the feet agnment member.

The method may further comprise visualiy indicating an intended path of a golf ciub head through a bali posftion with the swing alignment ongitudinai member.

The method may comprise aligning the user's feet prior to reatively adjusting the ailgnrnent members. The method may comprise aligning the user's feet subsequent to relatively adjusting the alignment members.

The method may comprise indirectly aligning the Feet alignment member with a target or desired direction. For example, the method may comprise aligning the swing alignment member with a target or desired direction and aligning the feet alignment member with the target or desired direction by association with the swing alignment member (such as via the linkage).

The method may further compdse swinging a golf club in alignment with the swing alignment member.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of transporting a gotf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf haH, the method comprising: adjusting a feet guide longitudinal memhe relative to a swing guide longitudinal member with a linkage between the longitudinal members; guiding alignment between a usees feet with the feet allgnment longitudinal member; visuaily inthcatir.g an intended path of a golf cub head through a ball po&tion with the swing allgnment longftudinal member; and reconfiguring the golf training apparatus for transport with a golf bag.

The method may further comprise controlling an orientation of the swing ahgnment member relative to the feet allgnment member with the linkage during adjustment.

The invention includes one or more corresponthng aspects, embodiments or features in isolation or in various combinations whether or not spectilcally stated (including claimed) in that cornbinaUon or in isolation, For example, it will readlly be appreciated that features recited as opfional with respect to the first aspect may be additionally appllcable with respect to the other aspects without the need to explicitly and unnecessarily list those various combinations and permutations here.

in addition, corresponding means for performing one or more of the discussed

functions are also within the present disclosure.

U will be appreciated that one or more embodiments/aspects may he useful in assisting a user in addressing a golf ball, such as by indicating a desired stance for allgning a golf swing.

The above summary is intended to be merely exemplary and nonlimiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic view of a goff training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a goff ba according to an embodiment of the present invention, in a first use configuration; Figure 2 is a schematic pan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf bafl accorthng to another embodiment of the present invention, in a first use configuration; Figure 3 is a schematic pan view of the apparatus of Figure 2, in a transport conflguration; Figure 4 is a schemaUc plan view of the apparatus of Figure 2. in a partially coUapsed configuration; Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of the apparatus of Figure 2, in a second use configuration: Figure 6 is a schematic pan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf baU according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a use configuration: Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf ha according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a use configuration; Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus fbi use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a use configuration; Figure 9 is a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf ba according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a use configuration; Figure 10 is a schemaUc plan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf baH according to another embodiment of the present invention. in a use configuration; Figure 11 is a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf bafi according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a use configuration; and Figure 12 is a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus For use in assisting a user to address a golf baU according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a partially collapsed configuration; Figure 13 is a schemafic plan view of the apparatus of Figure 12, in a fully extended configuration; Figure 14 is a schematic plan view of the apparatus of Figure 12, in a coflapsed configuration; Figure 15 is a schematic plan view of the apparatus of Figure 12, in a reversed confIguration; Figure 16 is a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a gall hail according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a use configuration; Figure 17 is a schematic plan view of the apparatus of Figure 16, in a 2(1 collapsed configuration; and Figure 18 is a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to another embodiment of the present invention, in a use configuration.

DETMLED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is first made to Figure 1, in which there is shown a golf training apparatus ID in accordance with an embodiment of the invention for use in assisting a user 12 to address a goff ba (not shown) in a first use configuraUon. The apparatus 10 comprises a feet agnment longitudinal member 14 configured to provide a substantially Unear connection between a user's left foot 16 and a user's hght foot 18. In the embodiment shown, the connection is indicative of the user's 12 1St agnment relative to a target 20, as exem pUlled by a dotted ne 22 extrapolated from the feet aUgnrnent member 14 towards a target 20, nothig that the apparatus 10 Ues fiat on the ground and that the user's feet 16, 18 abut the feet aHgnment member 14.

The apparatus 10 compdses a swing aUgnment longitudinal member 24 configured to provide a visual indication of an intended path of a users swing through a ball relative to the target 20. In the embodiment shown, the intended path of the user's swing of the golf dub 25 is agned r&ative to the target 20 such that a dotted line 26 extrapolated from the swing agnment longitudinal member 24 extends towards the target 20.

The apparatus 10 comprises a nkage 28 between the feet aUgnmenf longitudhial member 14 and the swing aUgnment longitudinal member 24. The linkage 28 is configured to control an orientation of the swing aUgnment longitudinal member 24 relafive to the feet agnment ongitudh'i& member 14. The nkage 28 comprises a first link member 30 and a second nk member 32. The first and second ink members 30, 32 are pivotay connected to the feet aUgnment longitudinal member 14 and to the swing aflgnment longitudinal member 24. Accordingly, the Unkage 28 deFines an extending scissors mechanism for the swing alignment longitudinal member 24 relative to the feet aUgnrnent longitudinal member 14.

In the embodiment shown, the linkage 28 is configured to maintain the swing alignment longitudinal member 24 paraflel to the feet alignment longitudinal member 14, such as during reconfiguration of the apparatus 10.

Figure 2 shows a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus 110 for use in assisting a user to address a golf bali according to an embodiment of the present invention, in a first use configuration. The apparatus 110 shown is generaliy similar to that shown in Figure 1, and as such ike features share like reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accordingly, the apparatus comprises a feet alignment longitudinal member 114 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 124. The view shown is similar to that experienced by a user, without the user's feet shown abuthng the feet alignment longituthnal member 114, and without the user's arms or club showing.

The feet alignment ongitudinal member 114 comprises left foot and right foot positioning guides 134, 136 in the form of gradated scales on an upper surface of the feet alignment longitudinal member 114, Although not shown in figure 2. the guides 134, 136 provide an indication of appropriate foot positions, such as for an intended dub and a desired shot type (eq. a wider stance for a driver compared to a wedge and/or a stance further left for a fade or an uphi lie, compared to a stance further right for a draw or a downhili lie).

The first link member 130 is pivotaliy connected to the second link member 132 by a central linkage pivot 138. In the embodiment shown, the central linkage pvot 138 is lockable by rotating a handle 140 connected to the central linkage pivot 138. Accordingly, the configuration of the apparatus 110 can be locked.

The swing alignment longitudinal member 124 comprises a swing pivot fore slot 142 for receiving a first link member swing pivot 144 of the first link member 130.

Accordingly. the first link member 130 is slidably connected to the swing alignrneht longitudinal member 124. The second ink member 132 is ivotaDy connected to the swing alignment longitudinal member 124 at a swing aft pivot 146. In the embodiment shown the second link member 132 is not sdably connected to the swing agnment longitudinal member 124.

Simar1y, the feet ahgnment lonçtudinal member 114 comprises a feet pivot fore &ot 148 for receMng a second nk member feet pivot 150 of the second hnk member 132. Accodingly, the second ink member 132 is slidably connected to the fee[ agnrnent longitudinal member 114, The first link member 130 is pivotally connected to the feet aHgnment longitudinal member 114 at a feet aft pivot 152. In the embothment shown the first link member 130 is not sdably connected to the feet agnment longitudinal member 114.

Adjacent the slots 142 and 148 are respective swing and feet separation guides 154, 156. An indication of a separation of the feet agnment longitudinal member 114 from the swing alignment longitudinal member 124 is provided by the respective separaüon guides 154, 156. For example, a position of the first ink member swing pivot 144 relative to the swing separation guides 154 provides an indication of the separation. Mhough not shown calibrated, the separation guides 154, 156 can provide an indication of a pe of swing corresponding to the separation, such as a type of club to be used.

The swing alignment longitudinal member 124 comprises a bS guide 158.

The ba guide 158 comprises a gradated scale for assisting in posFifoning a bafl IongtudinaHy r&ative to the swing alignment longitudinal member 124 (thus longitudinafly relative to users stance). Accordingly, the user may vary a Uming of when a ball is struck in a swing by varying the ball's position along the guide 158 (e.g. further' right for earlier strike during the swing in the embodiment shown). The swing alignment longitudinal member 124 comprises a series of apertures 160 for receiving a golf tee. Accordingly the user may position a baH on/above the swing alignment hngitudinal member 124.

The apparatus 10 Is shown In a transport conhiguratlon in FIgure 3. The link members 130, 132 are substantially parallel, with the first link member swing pivot 144 and the second link member feet pivot 150 slid to end portions of their respective slOts 142, 148, The feet alignment longitudinal member 114 abuts the swing alignment longitudinal member 124. Accordingly, the first and second link members 130, 132 are substantially hidden and a footprint of the apparatus 110 corresponds to an outline of the abutting feet alignment longitudinal member 114 and the swing alignment longitudinal member 124. The central linkage pivot 138 may be locked by rotating the handle 140 such that the apparatus 110 tends to maintain the transport confIguration. providing for ease of Insertion and removal from a golf bag.

In use, the apparatus 110 is transported, such as In a golf bag, to a location for performing a golf swing (e.g. a driving range, or adjacent a ball on a golf course).

The apparatus 110 Is unlocked appropriatebc by rotating the handle 140 connected to the central linkage pivot 138. The position of the swing alignment member 124 relative to the feet alignment member 114 Is adjusted, such as until a desired separation between the alignment members 114, 124 is achieved -the separation typically dependent upon the user and club being used. The position is adjustable using a separation guide 154, 165 and/or visual judgement (eg placing the apparatus adJacent the swing location and adopting an Initial golf stance). The apparatus 110 can be locked in position and/or adjusted between swings. The apparatus 110 Is posftioned on the ground adjacent an appropriate golf ball position Indicated by the ball guide 158 and the apparatus 110 Is aligned relative to a target The user positions hIs/her feet against the feet alignment member 114, using the positioning guides 134, 138, and proceeds to swing the dub as Indicated by the swing alignment member 124 (to the left for a right-handed user; or to the right lbr a left-handed user).

The apparatus 110 is adjusted or reposiUoned between swings appropriately and coUapsed for transportation when swinging is complete.

Such an apparatus 110 allows quick deployment for use and coflapse for storag&transportation. Such an apparatus 110 provides for an accurate agnment beeen swing and feet r&ative to a target.

The apparatus is shown in a partiafly collapsed configuration in Figure 4, indicating the respective positions of the first llnk member swing pivot 144 and the second nk member feet pivot 150 r&ative to their respective guides 154, 156, compared to the first use configuration of Figure 2, and the transport confiouration of Figure 3.

SimHarly, Figure 5 shows a second use configuration of the apparatus 110, demonstrating a corration between the separation and the respective positions of the first ink member swing pivot 144 and the second ink member feet pivot 150 r&ative to their respective guides 154, 156.

Figure 8 shows a schematic p'an view of a gof training apparatus 210 for use in assisting a user to address a goff ball according to an embodiment of the present invention, in a first use configuration. The apparatus 210 shown is generally siSarto that shown in Figure 2; and as such like features share ike reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accorthngly, the apparatus comprises a feet alignment longitudinal member 114 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 124.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the first Unk member 244 further comprises a first Unk slot 262 for receiving the first ink member awing pivot 144.

Accordingly, the first ink member 230 is slldebly connected to the swing alignment longitudinal member 224 for sllding along two axes. Accordingly, an angle S between the feet alignment longitudinal member 214 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 224 can be adjusted. For example, a user may wish to adapt his swing to impart an effect on a ball, such as a sidespin. Accordingly, the user may wish to contrc.llably misan his swing with his feet agnment. Alternatively, a user's swing may require a particular controUed misaflgnment between his swing and his Feet alignment.

Figure 7 shows a schematic plan view cia golf training apparatus 310 for use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present invention, in a first use configuration. The apparatus 310 shown is generally similar to that sh.owxl in Figure 6, and as such like feaiures share like reference numeras, incremented by 100, Accordingly, the apparatus comprises a feet allgnment longitudinal member 314 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 324.

In the embodiment shown, the swing pivot fore slot 342 is curved, such that the angie 6 (between the feet alignment longitudinal member 314 and the swing alignment longitudinal member 324) is adjusted by adjusting a separation between the swing alignment longitudinal member 324 and the feet alignment longitudinal member 314. relative to the linkage 323. Accordingly a different angle 0 may be provided for a different separation. A relationship between the separation and the angle 0 is predetermined. Accordingly, a maximum and a minimum separation may provide for an angle 8 less than 0 degrees (ie the longitudinal members may taper towards the target); whilst an intermediate separation may provide for an angle e of 0 degrees.

Figure 8 shows a schematic plan view of a goft training apparatus 410 for use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present invention, in a first use configuration. The apparatus 410 shown is generally simllar to that shown in Figure 7, and as such like features share like reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accordingly, the apparatus comprises a feet alignment longitudinal member 414 end a swing alignment longitudinal member 424.

The apparatus 410 comprises a swing pivot aft sot 464 for receiving the second hnk member swing pivot 446 of the second ink member 430. Accordingly, the second Hnk member 430 is shdably connected to the swing allgnment longitudinal member 424. Simarly, the feet alignment ongitudinal member 414 comprises a feet pivot aft slot 466 for rec&ving the first ink member feet pivot 452 of the first bk member 432. Accordingly, the first link member 432 is abdably connected to the Feet ahgnment longitudinal member 414.

In the embodiment shown, the apparatus can be adjusted such the swing alignment longitudinal member 424 is longitudindy offset from the feet alignment £0 longitudinal member 414 (as illustrated). Accordingly, the swing allgnment longitudin& member 424 can be located earlier or later in a swing as preferred (eg to provide a longer indication of a ball's intended trajectory).

In the embodiment shown, an increased total slot length in the feet abgnment hngdudinal member 414 and the swing alignment longitudinal member 424 respectiv&y enables an increased total separation between the feet allgnment longitudinal member 414 and the swing abgnment longitudin& member 424, In alternative embodiments, such an apparatus with four such slots may enable the respective slots to be shorter, whilst providing a similar separation as the apparatus of Figure 2.

Figure 9 shows a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus 510 for use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present invention, in a first use configuration. The apparatus 510 shown is generally similar to that shown in Figure 8, and as such like features share bke reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accordingly, the apparatus comprises a feet alignment longitudinal member 514 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 524.

In the embodlmerg shown, the swing pivot fore slot 542 Is curved, such that the angle 8 (between the feet alignment longitudinal member 514 and the swing alignment longitudinal member 524) can be adjusted by longitudinally adjusting the position of the swing alignment longitudinal member 524 relative to the linkage 528.

The longItudinal position of the feet alignment longitudinal member 514 relative to the linkage 528 can be similarly adjusted; for example, to ensure front end portion 568, 570 remaIn aligned for different configurations, such as different angles 0.

Each of the second link member swing pIvot 548, the first link member feet pIvot 552, the first link member swing pIvot 544, and the second link member feet pivot 550 Is respectively lockable.

Figure 10 shows a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus 610 for use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present Invention, In a first use configuration. The apparatus 810 shown Is generally similar to that shown in FIgure 9, and as such like features share like reference numerals, Incremented by 100. AccordIngly, the apparatus 610 comprIses a feet alignment longitudinal member 614 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 624.

The apparatus further comprises a curved portion 672 of the swing alignment longitudinal member 624, provIding an indication of projected swing pathls.

FIgure 11 shows a schematic plan view of a golf iraining apparatus 710 for use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present Invention, in a first use configuration. The apparatus 110 shown Is generally similar to that shown in FIgure 10, and as such like features share like reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accordingly, the apparatus 710 comprises a feet alignment longitudinal member 714 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 724.

In the embodiment shown, the left foot guS 734 is configured to accommodate a configuration of the apparatus 710. The apparatus 710 comprises a left foot posioning indicator 774. The foot positbning indicator 774 is connected to the feet aMgnment member 714 and connectable to the second nk member 732. The foot positioning indicator 774 is connectable to the second ink member via a peg 776, a sbt 778 and an aperture 780. The foot posifloning indicator 774 is connected S to the second ink member 732 such that the foot positioning indicator 774 automatically adjusts an indicated toot position according to a reconfiguration of the apparatus (eq. a wider stance for a greater separafion of the swing and feet ahgnment members 714, 724). The peg 776 slldes in the slot 778 as the apparatus is reconfigured, altering the angle of the foot posUioning indicator 774 relative to the feet allgnment ongituthnal member 714. The indicator 774 may be disconnected from the second nk member 732 for reconfiguration to the transport configuration.

Figures 12 to 15 show schematic plan views of a goil training apparatus 810 for use in assisting a user to address a golf baH according to an embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 810 shown is generally simllar to that shown in Figure 11, and as such llke features share ke reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accordingly, the apparatus 810 comprises a feet agnment longitudin member 814 and a swing allgnment longitudinal member 824.

The apparatus is shown in Figure 12 in a partiaUy extended configuration, with the longdudbal and nk members 814, 824, 830, 532 defining a parsUelogram, which can be a use configuration for a user. The ink members 830, 832 are not connected to each other, such that the first ink swing pivot 844 is a right pivot and the second link swing pivot 846 is a left pivot in the embodiment shown. The lateral position of the bafl guide 858 relative to the foot guides 834 and 836 varies with the separation between the feet and swing aignment members 814, 824 as the apparatus is reconfigured, such as to the fully separated configuration of Figure 13.

In the embodiment shown, the first and second link members 330, 832 are of equal effecflve length, such that the feet and swing allgnment members 814, 624 remain parallel in every configuration, including the collapsed configuration of Figure 14, and the reversed oonfiguratbn of Figure 15 for efthanded users, The apparatus 810 further comprises adjustment apertures 880 in the nk members 830, 832, such that the effective length of each hnk member 830, 832 can be varied. The respeefive pivots 844, 846 snap-fl info the apertures 880, such that the separaUon of the alignment members 814, 824 are user-adjustable. The apertures 880 also provide for a possibity of adjusting an angle between the ahgnment members 814, 824 such as by utili&ng a combination of a first (top) aperture in the first link member 830, and a second aperture in the second link member 832.

Figures 16 and 17 show schematic plan views of a gaff training apparatus 910 for use in assisting a user to address a goff ball according to an embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 910 shown is generay simllar to that shown in Figure 12, and as such lice features share ke reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accordingly, the apparatus 910 comprises a feet alignment ongitudinal member 914 and a swing alignment longitudinal member 924.

The swing alignment member 924 comprises a hinge 990 separating the swing alignment member 924 into left and right swing member &ements 925a, 925b.

The hinge is lockable with a lock 992 such that the swing alignment member 924 can function as a substantially rigid member as the swing alignment member 824 of apparatus 810. To collapse the apparatus 910, the hinge 990 is unlocked by releasing the lock 992; the swing alignment member 924 folded, and the left and right swing member elements 925a, 925b and the first and second link members 930, 932 pivoted to position the left and right swing member elements 925a, 925b and the first and second link members 930, 932 adjacent the feet ahgnrnent member 914.

Accordingly, the apparatus 910 of Figure 17 in the collapsed configuration has a reduced total length, such as compared to the apparatus 810 of Figure 14 in the collapsed configuration.

Figure 19 shows a schematic plan view of a golf training apparatus 1010 for use in assisting a user to address a golf ball according to an embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 1010 shown is generally simfiar to that shown in Figure 16, and as such like features share like reference numerals, incremented by 100. Accorthngly, the apparatus 1010 comprises a feet aRgnment longitudinal member 1014 and a swing a gnment longitudinal member 1024.

The flrst and second ink members 1030, 1032 are different effective lengths, such that an angle 0 beeen the feet and swing allgnment members 1014, 1024 varies with a variation in separation between the feet and swing alignment members 1014, 1024. The apparatus 1096 has a configuration guide 1096 with markings indicative of different configurations corresponding to an angle between the second link member 1032 and the feet allgnment member 10141t will be appreciated that any of the aforementioned apparatus xl 0 may have other functions in addition to the mentioned functions, and that these functions may be performed by the same apparatus xlO, The applicant hereby discloses in isolation each individu& feature described herein and any combination of two or more such features, to the extent that such features or combinations are capable of being carried out based on the present specification as a whole in the light of the common general knowledge of a person skilled in the art, irrespective of whether such features or combinations of features solve any problems discosed herein, and without imitation to th.e scope of the claims. The applicant indicates that aspects of the present invention may consist of any such individual feature or combination of features, It should be understood that the embodmenLs described herein are mer&y exemplary and that various modiflcatkmns may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

For example, where feet and/or swing ahgnment member/s are agned with a target, it wiD be appreciated in &ternative embodiments/modes of use. the target for alignment may be adjacent a desired DalI destination (e.g. a feet agnnient member may be aligned with a position 20 rds to the elf of a target ba position, depending on the distance to the target ba position).

Claims

<claim-text>CLAIMS1. A gof training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a gaff baIL the apparatus comprising a feet agnment longitudinal member configured to guide allgnment between a user's feet; a swing aflgnment longitudinal member configured to provide a visual inthcation of an intended path of a gof club head through a bell position; and a inkage between the feet aHgnment ongitudinal member and the swing &gnment Ion tudinal member; wherein the Unkage is configured to permit relative adjustment between the longitudinal members.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is recontigurable between a 1.5 first configuration and a second configuration, the first configuration being a transport configuration with the apparatus coapsed for transportation with a golf bag, and the second configuration beLng a use configuration with the apparatus extended for aligning a user's feet and swing.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. The apparaWs of aim 1 or 2, wherein the relative adjustment between the longitudinal members comprises an adjustment of a separation between the longitudinal members.</claim-text> <claim-text>4, The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the feet alignment member is configured to provide a substantiafly linear connection between a user's left foot and a user's right foot.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. The apparatus of any preceding daim, wherein the linkage is configured to control a relative ange between the feet alignment longitudh-ial member and the swing alignment longitudinal member.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. The apparatus of any precethng claim, wherein the linkage is configured to maintain the feet alignment long tudinal member paraliel to the swing alignment ongituthnal member.*t0 7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the linkage defines an extending scissors mechanism for the swing alignment member relative to the feet alignment member, 8. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the linkage comprIses a first ink member pivotaliy connected to the feet alignment member by a first link member feet pivot, and the first ink member pivotaliy connected to the swing alignment member by a first link member swing pivot: and a second link member pivotaHy connected to the feet alignment member by a second link member feet pivot, and the second link member pivotally connected to the swing alignment member by a second ink member swing pivot, 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the first link member is pivotally connected to the second link member by a linkage pivot.10. The apparatus of claim B or 9, wher&n the swing alignment member comprises at least one swing slot for receiving a respective ink member pivot. 3'11, The apparatus of any of dairns B to 10, wherein the feet agnmen member comprises at east one feet slot for receiving a respective nk member pivot.12. The apparatus of any of claims 10 or 11, wherein thefeach &ot is configured to sUdebly rec&ve the respective pivot.13. The apparatus of any of claims B to 12, wherein the/each pivot is lockable.14. The apparatus of any of claims 9 to 13, wherein the linkage pivot s lockable relative to the first and second ink members such that a configuration of the apparatus may be substantiaily xed by locking the nkage pivot.15. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the linkage and the longitudinal members define a quadrflateral therebetween, 16. The apparatus oF any preceding claim, wherein the feet alignment longitudinal member and the swing aFgnment longitudinal member are configured to be substantiaUy groun&engagng use.17. The apparatus of any precedinq claim, wherein the feet alignment longitudinal member and/or the swing alignment longitudinal member comprise/s multiple longitudinal elements.18. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first and/or second nk member/s is/are disconnectable from each other and/or thaconnectable from the feet ahgnment member and/or theconnectable from the swing agnment member.19. The apparatus of any of claims I to 17, wherein the first and/or second nk member/s is/are non-detachable from each other and/ct from the feet and/or swing Signment member/s.20. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the feet aHgnment member is conFigured to abut a users two feet.21 The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the swing ailgoment member is configured to receive a golf hSL 22. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the linkage is adjustabe to selectiv&y vary the angle between the feet agnment longitudinal member and the swing agnment longitudinal member.23. The apparatus of any precedThg claim, wherein the feet ahgnment longitudinal member comprises a left foot positioning guide and a right foot positioning guide.24. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the nkage is configured to control a longitudinal position of the swing aUgnment longitudinal member relative to a longitudinal position of the feet agnmen longitudinal member.25. The apparatus of claIm 24, wherein the apparatus Is configured to maintain the longitudinal position of the swing alignment member relative to the longitudinal position of the feet alignment member during reconfiguration.26. The apparatus of claim 24 or 25, wheseln the linkage Is configured to provide an offset between the longitudinal position of the swing alignment member end the longitudinal posillon of the feet alignment member.27. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is configured for left-handed and right-handed users.28. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is longitudinally extensible.29. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the linkage Is configured tominimise contrast with a background.30. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wheieln the apparatus Is configured to support at feast one golf club.31. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one golf club.32. Th. apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises a carry-handle.33. The apparatus of any prececflng claim, wher&n the apparatus comprses a gaff ha gripping portion.34. The apparatus of any preceding daim, wherein the apparatus is configured to stand at an angle to the ground.35. A method of transporting a golf training apparatus for use in assisting a user to address a golf bafl, the methoc comprising: adjusting a feet guide longitudinal member relative to a swing guide longitudinal member with a Nnkage between the longitudinal members; guiding aUgnment between a user's feet with the feet aEignment longitudinal member; visuaUy indicating an intended path of a golf dub head through a baU position with the swing alignment ngitudinal member; and reconfiguring the golf training apparatus for transport with a golf hag.36. The method of claim 35, further comprising controUing an orientation of the swing aUgnment member relative to the feet alignment member with the linkage during adjustmenL 37. A method of assisting a user to address a golf bafl, the method comprising: adjusting a feet longitudinci alignment member relative W a swing alignment longitudinal member as permitted by a linkage between the feet alignment longitudinal member and the swing alignment longitudinal member; guiding alignment between a users feet with the feet aflgnment longitudinal member; and vsuay ndcafing an ntended path of a gof dub head through a ba positon with the swing agnment bngftudfria member.38. Gdf tranng apparatus for use n assstfrig a user to address a goft baU substanflaDy as descrbed herehi, with reference to the Fgures.39. Methods of transportng a got tSnng apparatus for use ri as&stng a user to address a goft ba substantiay as desorthed herein, with reference to the Figures.40. Methods of assisting a user to address a goff ball substantay as descrbed herein, with reference to the Fgures.</claim-text>