GB2553079A

GB2553079A - Block sled

Info

Publication number: GB2553079A
Application number: GB1609579.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Gray Richard; John Locke Anthony
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-06-01
Filing date: 2016-06-01
Publication date: 2018-02-28
Anticipated expiration: 2036-06-01
Also published as: GB2553079B; GB201609579D0

Abstract

A training apparatus 1 has a base 3 and an upright collision surface 16 which pivots relative to the base 3 about a transverse axis, provides at least one degree of freedom of movement between the base 3 and the surface 16, or rotates about an upright axis. The apparatus 1 enables development of improved technique for collisions in contact sports such as American Football and rugby. The surface 16 may be part of a tackle pad 14 mounted on an arm 20. Relative movement between the surface 16 and base 3 may be provided by a linkage 32 and resisted by a resilient bias such as an adjustable bungee system. The angle of the surface 16 relative to be base 3 may be adjustable. The support 20 may extend from a platform movable along a pair of runners 9.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Block sled

Abstract Title: Training apparatus with collision surface (57) A training apparatus 1 has a base 3 and an upright collision surface 16 which pivots relative to the base 3 about a transverse axis, provides at least one degree of freedom of movement between the base 3 and the surface 16, or rotates about an upright axis. The apparatus 1 enables development of improved technique for collisions in contact sports such as American Football and rugby. The surface 16 may be part of a tackle pad 14 mounted on an arm 20. Relative movement between the surface 16 and base 3 may be provided by a linkage 32 and resisted by a resilient bias such as an adjustable bungee system. The angle of the surface 16 relative to be base 3 may be adjustable. The support 20 may extend from a platform movable along a pair of runners 9.

At least one drawing originally filed was informal and the print reproduced here is taken from a later filed formal copy.

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Block Sled

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to the field of training apparatus. More particularly, it relates to a training apparatus for contact sports, such as American Football

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Contact or impact sports such as rugby (Rugby Union and Rugby League), American football, Aussie Rules football and Gaelic football involve various plays which require specific training to master and excel at. There are a number of training devices available to help improve the players’ performance.

In American Football, the defensive linemen and linebackers protect the quarterback and keep play moving by pushing the team up the field. It is therefore important that the linemen and linebackers react well to hits or collisions from the other team in order to keep play moving forward. The linemen and linebackers are therefore trained to collide in an effective way with opposing team members.

Known football sleds are used to help improve certain aspects of a player’s performance, such as for example the player’s strength, speed and agility. However, whilst these sleds can be used for practising certain techniques, they do not adequately mimic a real in-game collision or provide accurate collision position feedback in order to help develop the key techniques for responding to collisions well in order to keep play moving and increase the team’s performance. More particularly, they do not teach technique that facilitates safe tackling to minimise injuries of both parties in the tackle.

The present inventor has devised an apparatus that enables the aforementioned weaknesses in the ability of the known football sleds to improve collision technique to be addressed.

- 1 PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

There is a need for apparatus to improve technique and to enhance training in contact sports, in particular in American Football.

It is an object of the invention to provide a sports training apparatus that can be used in developing technique in the collision area of contact sports, such as American Football, to improve one or more of the above-identified weaknesses.

It is a further object of this invention to provide a sports training apparatus and method to improve individual and team technique in effectiveness in certain aspects of contact sports, in particular in American Football.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a training apparatus comprising:

a base for supporting the apparatus; and a collision surface disposed in a generally upright arrangement relative to the base, wherein the collision surface is configured to pivot relative to the base about a transverse axis or is configured in relation to the base to provide at least one predetermined limited degree of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface; and/or wherein the collision surface is configured to rotate about an upright axis.

In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a training apparatus having a collision surface and which is movably responsive to a force transmitted by a user impacting the collision surface during use, the apparatus comprising:

a base for supporting the apparatus on a training surface, the base comprising one or more training surface-contacting members defining a base plane and extending in a longitudinal direction substantially aligned with the training surface; and

-2 a collision support structure extending upwardly from the base for supporting a collision surface to be impacted by a user during use;

and wherein the base is moveably responsive to force transmitted by the user to the collision surface;

and wherein the collision support structure includes a linkage to allow relative movement between the collision surface and the base, and wherein the linkage provides at least one predetermined limited degree of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface when force is transmitted by the user to the collision surface.

In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus kit comprising:

a base for supporting the apparatus on a training surface, the base comprising one or more training surface-contacting members defining a base plane and extending in a longitudinal direction substantially aligned with the training surface;

a collision support structure for supporting a collision surface to be impacted by a user during use, in which the collision support structure is mountable on the base to extend upwardly therefrom; and a linkage mountable between the collision surface and the base to provide relative movement between the collision surface and the base, and wherein the linkage provides at least one predetermined limited degree of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface when force is transmitted by the user to the collision surface, and wherein in use the base member is moveably responsive to force transmitted by the user to the collision surface.

In a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided apparatus having a collision surface and which is movably responsive to a force transmitted by a user impacting the collision surface during use, the apparatus comprising:

a base for supporting the apparatus on a training surface, the base comprising one or more training surface-contacting members defining a base plane

-3 and extending in a longitudinal direction substantially aligned with the training surface; and a collision support structure extending upwardly from the base for supporting a collision surface to be impacted by a user during use;

and wherein the collision support structure includes a linkage providing relative movement between the collision surface and the base, and wherein the linkage provides at two predetermined limited degrees of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface when force is transmitted by the user to the collision surface.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

The training apparatus of the invention provides a means by which improved technique for collisions in contact sports such as American Football can be developed. By providing a collision surface which is moveable and/or rotatable relative to the base, which mimics in a controlled environment a common configuration of a collision, players can train on the most effective collision techniques, including enhancing power and strength direction of approach, maintaining power at a required height against a contact surface arranged at a predetermined angle. Furthermore, by providing a collision surface which is rotatable relative to the base, the players can train to improve the accuracy of their direction of approach and/or the strength of their approach, as rotation of the collision surface occurs if the direction of approach and/or strength of approach is incorrect or sub-optimum thereby throwing the player away from the collision surface.

The training apparatus of the invention also provides a means by which the technique for collision is improved as the invention provides a contact surface which is mounted on a base member which is moveably responsive to force transmitted by the user. The base member will only move in response to the force transmitted by the player if the player’s direction of approach and/or strength of approach to the contact surface is correct or in an optimum direction. The training

-4 apparatus therefore provides the user or team of users with instant feedback as to whether the player used ‘good’ or ‘bad’ technique.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure lisa schematic illustrating a side view of a training apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a plan view of a training apparatus according to the embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a front view of a training apparatus according to the invention illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a training apparatus according to the invention illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a further perspective view of a training apparatus according to the invention illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the linkage of the training apparatus of the invention illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 7 is an exploded view of the training apparatus according to the invention illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 8 is an exploded view of a rotation collision assembly of the training apparatus according to the invention illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 9 is a perspective view from below of the training apparatus according to the invention illustrated in Figure 1; and

Figure 10 is a perspective view from below of a bungee arrangement of the training apparatus according to the invention illustrated in Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The training apparatus according to the present invention is adaptable or may be adapted for use in training, coaching, and technique development for several contact sports where ‘collision’ plays are important, such as for example and not limited to American Football. It is particularly useful in

- 5 developing technique where effectiveness of direction and/or strength of collision is an important element. Preferably, the training apparatus is a blocking sled, for example for use in American football.

The training apparatus of the invention comprises a base for supporting the apparatus and a collision surface disposed in a generally upright arrangement relative to the base and preferably configured for a user to contact in a training exercise whereby a transient or sustained force or impact may be applied to the surface by a user with the aim of developing a desired technique, which in one embodiment (for field training) may cause the apparatus to move along a training surface. The base is for supporting the apparatus and preferably for supporting the apparatus on a surface such as a training surface. The base preferably comprises one or more training surface-contacting members defining a base plane.

The apparatus may be defined as having a longitudinal axis which may be considered to extend from the collision surface (or the centre point or centre of mass of the collision surface) in a direction which generally bisects the base). Where the base is an elongate member, this will typically be the same direction or the same axis as a longitudinal axis of the base such as a line of symmetry. The longitudinal direction is typically the direction that the apparatus and the base will move if a square and true force is applied consistently to the collision surface. A transverse axis is an axis parallel with a base plane and preferably orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus.

The collision surface and the apparatus are configured such that the collision surface may move relative to the base when a force is applied by a user to the surface. The collision surface may be configured to pivot about a transverse axis relative to the base or the collision surface may be configured relative to the base to provide at least one pre-determined limited degree of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface. Preferably, the collision surface is configured to pivot relative to the base and preferably about a transverse axis.

The collision surface may be configured to rotate about an upright axis.

-6Preferably the collision surface is configured to move relative to the base, as mentioned above, preferably to pivot relative to the base and is configured to rotate about an upright axis.

The upright axis may pass through the plane of the collision surface or, preferably is offset from the collision surface (but preferably parallel with the collision surface and preferably medial with or bisects the collision surface). The upright axis is typically disposed generally upright relative to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus or the base plane, preferably, the upright axis is generally coplanar with the longitudinal axis and disposed within a 45 degree angle of the normal to the base plane. The upright axis may move relative to the base according to the movement of the collision surface relative to the base. For example, the upright axis may pivot relative to the base, e.g. when a force is applied to the collision surface.

This dynamic associated with the collision surface, in which it may move in two orientations when a force is applied and in which the manner in which it may move varies during the movement is representative of real collisions during game play whereby the masses and orientations of opposing players may vary. By providing a training system in which a collision surface may pivot relative to a base on application of a force and wherein the collision surface may rotate about an axis that pivots relative to the base on application of a force, training of technique and core strength of a user in a collision scenario may be achieved. This dynamic arrangement demands strength, balance and adjustment which all must be sustained through an exercise.

Preferably, the apparatus is configured such that the collision surface is resiliently disposed relative to the base. The collision surface therefore preferably has a first, resting, position and second and further active positions after a force is applied and during an exercise and will, upon removal of the applied force to the collision surface, return to the first resting position. The first, resting, position is typically a position at an angle to the normal to the base plane and angled away from the base (toward the direction of approach of a user). The collision surface, which preferably has at least one planar contact portion, may thus

-7be disposed, in its first resting position, at an angle of at least 80° to the plane of the base, preferably at least 90°, more preferably at least 100° and optionally up to 135°, more preferably in up to 125° (i.e. up to 30° from the normal to the base plane and angled away from the base and toward the user and thus in a preferred embodiment the collision surface defines a closed inclined surface in which the collision surface is facing down to some degree in its resting position).

Optionally, the collision surface is resiliently mounted in relation to the upright axis about which it rotates, whereby it is biased to return to a starting position, or it may not be resiliently mounted. Preferably, the collision surface is passively resiliently mounted in relation to the upright axis by which it is meant that it is free to return to its starting position upon removal of an unbalanced force (which would cause it to rotate about the upright axis) by virtue of the angle of upright axis in the first resting position. By this arrangement, the need for balance and evenly applied force to the collision surface increases as the application of force increases, offering a very effective training arrangement.

The base may be any suitable shape and configuration. The base, for example, may be circular in plan, triangular, square or any other shape, it may flare outward in a longitudinal direction from the collision surface or taper inward in a longitudinal direction from the collision surface. Preferably the base is elongate.

Preferably, the collision surface is supported by a collision support structure, which collision support structure is disposed in relation to the base and preferably mounted on the base. The collision support structure preferably includes a linkage to allow or provide the relative movement (preferably pivotal movement) between the collision surface and the base, which may be defined as a first linkage. The collision support structure preferably includes a linkage which allows or provides the rotation of the collision surface about the upright axis, which is preferably a second linkage which may be the same or different to the first linkage, but is preferably different. Preferably the collision support structure has a longitudinal axis which defines the upright axis.

- 8 Preferably, the collision surface is provided on a collision member, which is preferably mounted on or supported by the collision support structure.

According to a preferred embodiment, the training apparatus has a collision surface and is movably responsive to a force transmitted by a user on collision surface during use, and the apparatus comprises:

a base for supporting the apparatus on a training surface, the base comprising one or more training surface-contacting members defining a base plane and extending in a longitudinal direction substantially aligned with the training surface; and a collision support structure extending upwardly from the base for supporting a collision surface to be impacted by a user during use;

The training apparatus will be described hereinafter with reference to this embodiments, but preferred features described are considered disclosed in relation to the broader aspects of the invention described above where the context allows.

The training apparatus according to one aspect of the invention comprises a base for supporting the apparatus on a training surface; a collision support structure extending upwardly from the base for supporting a collision surface for a user to impact; and a linkage allowing relative movement between the collision surface and the base. The linkage provides at least one predetermined limited degree of freedom of movement between the base and collision surface when force is transmitted by the user to the collision surface.

The base is preferably moveably responsive to the transmitted force in a direction extending along or substantially parallel to a direction extending from

-9a proximal end towards a distal end of the base so as to move the base relative to the training surface. The base is preferably moveable relative to the training surface in a direction extending along or substantially parallel to a direction extending from a proximal end towards a distal end of the base, herein referred to as the collision direction, by an amount responsive to one or more of the angle and/or direction, height, position, strength/power and technique of a collision by a player on the collision surface.

The base may comprise any suitable surface-contacting members, such as for example a plate, runners, fins, wheels or rollers. The base may for example comprise a pair of spaced apart runner portions, each runner portion extending from or near a proximal end towards a distal end of the base (the proximal and distal ends being typically relative to the collision surface). Each runner portion of the base preferably has an inclined lip at a distal end thereof, whereby during a training exercise, players may lift the apparatus and the lip allows longitudinal movement and prevents the distal end from digging in and resisting forward movement. The base may comprise a sled.

Preferably, the base comprises a base plate arrangement which is preferably mounted on an upper side of the surface contacting members and provides one or more platform areas. Such a platform may be used to support additional weights as may be required. The base plate arrangement is preferably

In one embodiment, which finds particular utility for fixed (e.g. indoor training) configuration rather than field configuration, the base may comprise a platform, in which a first end of the collision support structure extends upwardly from the platform; and a support frame, and in which the platform is moveable relative to the support frame in response to force transmitted by the user to the collision surface and wherein support frame may be fixed in position relative to the training surface.

The base may be of any suitable length. The length of the base may be any suitable length which gives structural integrity to the apparatus and allows it to remain upright during use. Preferably, the base is from 1 metre to 4 metres long, preferably 1.5 to 3 metres. The base member may be selected to be any

- 10 suitable width, typically from 40 to 200 cm at its widest point, preferably 50 to 150 cm, more preferably 60 to 90 cm and more preferably up to 75 cm.

The base member may be constructed from any suitable material, e.g. composite material, protruded or extruded resin composite (e.g. with glass fibre, carbon fibre etc), or metal (e.g. steel, typically mild steel) parts. The components may be formed of solid, shaped or hollow sections. Preferably, base member comprises a base frame of steel square or rectangular hollow sections.

The base plate member may be a moulded plastic or composite element, or a shaped sheet steel element and is preferably a mild steel plate element which preferably has a 6 mm check (with 4.5 mm on flat).

The collision support structure may be positioned or mounted at any suitable location on the base. Preferably, the collision structure is mounted at or near a proximal end of the base.

Preferably, the collision support structure extends by an amount from 50 to 200 cm upwards from the base member (e.g. the top of the collision surface is arranged to be 50 to 200 cm from the base member and the playing or training surface), more preferably at least 100 cm, e.g. from 100 to 180 cm, still more preferably from 120 to 140 cm. In preferred embodiment, the centre of mass of a collision member, bearing a collusion surface, is in the region 100 to 140 and preferably about 120 cm upward from the base.

The collision support structure may be a simple support member, for example an arm, or a pair of arms.

The collision support structure useable in any of the embodiments may be formed of any suitable material that is suitable for receiving collisions. Typically, the collision support structure is formed of a rigid frame and disposed thereon a collision member providing the collision surface, which collision member comprises a pad element. The pad element may be, for example, a shaped cover (e.g. of leather or synthetic leather, such as PVC, or textile or fabric, as is known in the art) attachable or fixed to the rigid frame and filled with an appropriate filler (e.g. fibrous filler, fabrics, wool, reconstituted foam or shaped foamed plastic filler), or may be for example a shaped pad of resilient or resiliently compressible

- 11 foam material (e.g. polyurethane) coated with a synthetic coating material or a cover (of, e.g. leather or synthetic leather, such as PVC, or textile or fabric, as is known in the art). Preferably the coating material is a laminate such as a woven or textile fabric with a PVC coating.

As mentioned above, the collision surface may be a surface of a collision member mounted or for mounting on the collision support structure. The collision member may take any suitable form and collision members may be interchangeable. For example, the collision member may be selected from: a torso shaped portion, tackle bag cylinder and a half sphere portion. Optionally, the collision member comprise a tackle bag having gripping members disposed thereon. The collision member may comprise, e.g. on the collision surface, a visual guide to indicate its optimal collision zone (or sweet spot) to enhance training.

The collision support structure may be arranged to provide a collision surface extending in any suitable direction prior to collision depending on the training requirements for a particular player and/or type of collision and/or type of collision surface. For example, the plane of the collision surface may be substantially aligned with a vertical direction, i.e. extending substantially perpendicular to the base plane, prior to collision. The plane of the collision surface may however be an inclined surface prior to collision. For example, the plane of the collision surface may be an open inclined surface, in which the collision surface is angled away from the vertical in such a way as the collision surface is ‘open’, i.e. facing up to some degree. Alternatively, and indeed preferably, the plane of the collision surface may be a closed inclined surface, in which the collision surface is facing down to some degree.

The collision surface may have any suitable shape such as for example an irregular surface which more closely represents the irregular collision surface in the game. The collision surface is preferably planar or defines a planar portion.

The collision surface is preferably moveable relative to the base in a direction and/or rotatable about an axis by an amount responsive to one or more of

- 12 the angle and/or direction, height position, strength/power and technique of a collision by a user on the collision surface.

The movement of the collision support structure and collision surface responsive to a collision may be achieved by any suitable arrangements, one embodiment of which is described below.

The linkage preferably provides relative rotation between the collision surface and base. For example, the linkage may provide relative rotation between the collision surface and base about a transverse axis extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the collision support structure and parallel to the base plane. The linkage may provide relative rotation between the collision surface and base about a transverse axis extending substantially perpendicular to an axis extending between the proximal and distal ends of the base and parallel to the base plane.

The collision support structure may be pivotally mounted on the base at or proximal to a first end of the collision support structure to be rotatable about the transverse axis. The collision support structure may be resiliently mounted on the base to provide resistance to rotation about the transverse axis.

For example, the apparatus may comprise an adjustable resilient biasing mechanism to resist rotation of the collision support structure about the transverse axis. The resilient biasing mechanism may comprise an adjustable bungee system.

An adjustable bungee system as used in a preferred embodiment is adapted for use with two pivotally mounted parts (e.g. the collision support structure and the base). A collision support structure according to this preferred embodiment extends upwards from the base and the pivot mounting therewith to support a collision surface and the collision support structure comprises a projection extending below the pivot point (i.e. extending beyond the pivot mounting in a direction opposing the direction upon which the collision surface is supported). Disposed on the projection is a first bar or hook member (or members) onto which may be fixed, connected or wound a bungee. A corresponding second bar or hook member (or members) is disposed on the base of the training apparatus onto which may be fixed, connected or wound a bungee.

- 13 This arrangement of the collision support structure and base is such that by resiliently biasing the extended projection of the collision support structure toward the base (and in particular the second bar or hook member of the base), the collision surface is resiliently biased toward the user, away from the body (and base) of the apparatus. The first and second bar or hook members, respectively mounted on the extended projection of the collision support structure and the base, are preferably resiliently biased by linking them with a resiliently extendable rod or cord, preferably a bungee cord. The bungee cord is typically an elasticated cord formed with a hook or connector at each end (typically suitable for connecting to the first and second bar or hook members). Different elasticities of bungee may be available in order to provide different degrees of resilience to the pivotally mounted collision support structure. Optionally, varying degrees of resilience may be achieved by attaching additionally bungee cords and/or stretching the bungee cord to extend from a second hook or bar, wound about a first hook or bar and back to the second hook or bar (and optionally wound thereabout and extended back to the first hook and bar and so on). The bungee system is particularly effective in the apparatus of the invention since the harder the user pushes against the collision surface, the greater force with which the collision surface tends to push back toward the user. An adjustable bungee system as described may compose a further aspect of the invention.

The apparatus preferably further comprises a setting mechanism for adjusting the initial angle of the collision surface relative to the base prior to collision. The setting mechanism may adjust the location of the transverse axis relative to the base. The setting mechanism may rotate the collision support structure about the transverse axis. The collision support structure may be pivotally mounted to the base and the setting mechanism may be arranged to adjust the position of the pivot. The setting mechanism preferably comprises a cam arrangement pivotable about a fixed axis on the base, the cam carrying the pivot of the support structure.

The setting mechanism preferably defines a selectable plurality of predetermined initial alignment angles between the base and the collision support

- 14 structure and/or collision surface. For example, the initial angle formed between the longitudinal axis of the collision support structure and the plane of the base may be adjustable within the range 60° and 135°, more preferably between 95° and 120°, for example adjustable between discrete initial angles of 90 degrees, 105 degrees, and 115 degrees.

The degree of rotation of the collision support structure about the transverse axis when force is transmitted by a user may be limited to any predetermined value, preferably to between a maximum degree of rotation and a minimum degree of rotation. Preferably, the maximum degree of rotation on collision is no more than 45°, more preferably no more than 30° and optionally no more than 25°. Preferably, the minimum degree of rotation on collision is at least 5°, more preferably at least 15°. The collision support structure may be mounted such that the angle of the collision surface from the vertical is in the range of between 5° and 45°, more preferably up to 30° and still more preferably up to 25°.

A linkage preferably provides relative rotation between the collision surface and base about a longitudinal axis extending generally upward from base plane. The linkage preferably provides relative rotation between the collision surface and base about a longitudinal axis extending along or generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the collision support structure.

A first end of the collision support structure may be mounted on the base, and a rotation collision assembly may be mounted at or near a second opposed end of the collision support structure to provide the means for rotation for the collision surface which may be configured with or mounted to the rotation collision assembly. The rotation collision assembly is preferably rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the collision support structure. The rotation collision assembly may be rotatable about an upright axis extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the collision support structure.

The maximum degree of rotation of the collision surface relative to the base about an upright axis is preferably adjustable. The maximum degree of rotation about the longitudinal axis is preferably adjustable between 45° and 90°,

- 15 for example adjustable within a range of discrete maximum values comprising one or more of 90 degrees, 67.5 degrees and 45 degrees.

The apparatus may further comprise at least one load attachment member arranged to receive one or more weight plates. One or more weights, e.g. weight plate fittings, water bladders or equivalent, may be provided on the base, e.g. towards the proximal end or distributed along the length of the base, such that weights may be added to increase the weight of the apparatus to simulate different weights of opposition. Preferably, the basic apparatus (without added weights) weighs at least 50 kg (which would be a suitable weight for an apparatus for training junior, e.g. under 18 year old, players), more preferably at least 90 kg (which would be a suitable minimum typical weight for training senior players, e.g. over 18 year olds) and optionally at least 120 kg (to suit bigger players, e.g. American Football players or Rugby forwards). In use, the weight of the basic apparatus can be supplemented with added weights as mentioned above to suit the player using the apparatus or the scenario being simulated.

The apparatus may further comprise one or a plurality of sensors provided in association with the collision surface in order to determine one or more of point of contact, duration of contact and strength of contact, to generate data relating to same and to communicate said data to a data analysis means.

The apparatus may further comprise one or a plurality of grip members disposed to enable a user to grip the grip member(s) at a plurality of positions about the periphery of the collision surface and/or collision member mounted on the collision surface. In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is provided with one or a plurality of grip members, which grip members are preferably disposed to enable a user to grip the grip member(s) at one or a plurality of positions about the periphery of the collision surface. Such grip members may be provided at a plurality of positions about the periphery of the collision surface. In one embodiment, grip members are provided by single grip bar, e.g. curved grip bar, preferably an inverted U-shaped grip bar, which provides a plurality of grip members (or is provided as a single grip member a plurality of grip zones). The grip members may be selected from an upper grip member (along

- 16 the top edge of the collision member), an upper transverse grip member (or pair of), a lower transverse grip member (or pair of), a punch-grip cross member (or pair of) (protruding laterally from the periphery of the collision member) and a lower grip member protruding forward toward the user from the bottom of or beneath the collision member. By providing a plurality of grip members, a player after having made initial contact in the collision can make a choice on different types of hand placement around the collision surface by gripping the grip member(s) at different positions, such as under grip, over grip, straight punch grip or mix and match.

The invention enables the collision surface and/or base to move in response to certain features of a collision, the effect of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ collision technique may be appreciated instantly by the player and the apparatus can be used to improve technique.

The apparatus may be configured or ‘tuned’ such that a sweet spot for collision is provided on the collision surface whereby direct, accurate and powerful collision by a player with the sweet spot of the collision surface provides one or more of optimum movement of the base relative to the training surface, straight movement of the base relative to the training surface and/or minimal or no rotation of the collision surface about or generally parallel to a pre-defined upright axis. The apparatus may also be configured or ‘tuned’ such that a bad collision (i.e. an indirect, inaccurate and weak collision) with the collision surface provides one or more of minimal or no movement of the base relative to the training surface, skewed movement of the base relative to the training surface and/or maximum or predetermined angle of rotation of the collision surface relative to the base about the upright axis, which will generally inhibit further application of force (or throw the user of course and off the collision surface).

Preferably, the apparatus may be used for repeat or successive collisions by the user or users after the apparatus has been repositioned postcollision. Accordingly, training techniques in collision may be practiced and successive collisions effected by team members can be practiced. The apparatus may further comprise a return mechanism to return the rotation collision assembly

- 17 and/or the base to its initial position pre-collision. The rotation collision assembly may be resiliently biased to return to its initial position pre-collision.

By providing an apparatus in which the collision surface is rotatable, a player approaching a collision with the collision surface must work on providing a good contact at a predetermined spot or region on the collision surface and maintain good contact on application of force and good core strength and technique in order to avoid being thrown off the apparatus, in particular the contact surface, by rotation of the contact surface relative to the base. Thus, the apparatus may be used to develop a good technique.

As mentioned above, the apparatus is preferably configured such that the collision surface and/or base are moveably responsive to the collision features (e.g. to one or more of direction and/or angle, height position, strength/power and technique of a collision by a player). One general embodiment of this is discussed in more detail below. In a first embodiment, a field training embodiment, the collision surface is rotatable relative to the base, and the base is moveable relative to the training surface in response to a collision by a user.

In the first embodiment, which is particularly useful for field training, the base is an elongate member having a proximal portion, above at least a portion of which the collision support structure is disposed, and a distal portion. The apparatus is adapted such that the base is moveably responsive to user collisions on the collision surface. It is however to be understood that the collision support structure may optionally be moveable on a fixed base, e.g. by mounting the collision support structure on a short track located on the base along which the collision support structure or base may move resiliently from its initial resting point. The collision support structure may be mounted on a portion of a base which is moveable relative to the surface contacting members of the base in response to collision by a user. The surface contacting members may be fixed relative to the training surface during collision. However, it is preferable that in this embodiment the collision support structure is directly mounted by a linkage to a base which is moveably responsive to collision. Typically, the collision support

- 18 structure is directly mounted at or near the proximal end of the base (i.e. within a proximal portion of the base).

In field training, the base, in particular the surface-contacting member(s) of the base, is configured to move along the training surface (e.g. grass surface or synthetic grass surface), the apparatus is responsive to a collision by a user.

If a ‘good’ collision is achieved, the base may move a corresponding amount in a collision direction (which is defined as a direction extending parallel to an axis extending from the proximal to the distal end of the base). The extent of movement may be controlled by the weight of the apparatus (and in particular of the base), which may be supplemented by supplemental weight and/or by the nature and/or configuration of a contact surface (for contacting a training surface) and the degree of freedom or resistance to movement imparted thereby.

If a player does not make contact with the collision member in the correct technical position (e.g. optimally collision zone) the impact will be lessened through the apparatus, for example the base will not move relative to the training surface, or movement of the base relative to the training surface will be reduced or skewed, and/or the collision surface will rotate about a longitudinal axis and throw the player from the collision surface. Thereby, the apparatus encourages and trains the player to make contact with the collision surface at an optimal collision zone. The apparatus provides instant feedback to the player with regards to the quality of their technique.

As mentioned above, the nature and configuration of the surface contacting members of the base may (at least in part) control the degree of resistance to movement of the apparatus in one or more directions along a training surface (e.g. turf). Preferably, the base comprises a pair of spaced apart runners for contacting the training surface, and may for example take the form of a sled. It is however to be understood that the base may comprise a base panel member for contacting the training surface (the underside of the base panel member providing the contact surface). The base panel member should have an underside to enable

- 19 movement along the training surface. Optionally, the surface contacting members may be configured with base surface protrusions or contours which impart resistance to movement. Preferably, the shape and configuration of the base surface protrusions or contours may be selected to control resistance in different directions. Preferably, ridges or fins are provided on the contact surface, which preferably protrude downward and, to at least some degree, toward the proximal end (whereby they don’t dig in and prevent all movement). The ridges or fins may be curved but are preferably straight and angled at a certain or varied angles to the longitudinal direction in the range from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. The position and angle of fins may be provided according to the desired effect on resistance to movement in longitudinal and non-longitudinal directions. For example, fins substantially parallel with (i.e. at 0° to) the longitudinal direction will favour longitudinal movement and resist non-longitudinal movement. Fins substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction will resist longitudinal movement and favour non-longitudinal movement. Hence the selection of fin position and configuration may allow the sensitivity of the apparatus to be controlled.

In a further embodiment, applicable to the invention and all the embodiments hereinbefore described, a training apparatus may be further provided with a sensor or arrangement of sensors for measuring, analysing and/or monitoring technique, performance and/or improvement over time.

According to this embodiment, there may be provided sensors at one or various locations about the collision surface of the collision member, whereby point of contact may be determined, as well as possible additional data relating to duration of contact and strength of contact. Similarly, sensors may be provided on any grip members (e.g. in padded elements provided on the grip members) to record where the grip takes place and optionally strength and duration of grip. Optionally, e.g. in the field training embodiment, the apparatus is provided with a sensor or device (e.g. in or in association with the base member) for determining one or more of distance, speed and direction of movement of the apparatus. Typically, the data generated by the sensor(s) will be transmitted by wireless communication via a receiver to e.g. a microprocessor. The data may then

-20 be analysed (e.g. by a software application) to determine factors of performance about the particular user, such as accuracy of hit and power within the initial hit, whether the power was maintained or fell away after initial impact,, the strength that was demonstrated and the distance, speed and direction in which the apparatus was moved. Thus the strengths and weaknesses of a particular player’s technique can be measured and, for example, a profile created. Thus exercises to improve on weaknesses can be identified, such as through identifying changes that would improve the particular player’s technique as well as strength and conditioning programmes to improve the player’s performance through the collision.

The arrangement of sensors may be useful in measuring the following:

• The accuracy of the player making contact with the collision surface, e.g.

‘is body height correct and consistent, especially when fatigued?’;

• The power that is generated in the initial collision with the collision surface;

• The power that is generated after the initial hit; ‘does the player keep the pressure on or does it fall away dramatically?’; and

Optionally, there may be further sensors (or electronics) to determine the movement achieved.

Analysis can be used to determine improvements in training methods (e.g. to learn about the most efficient techniques and adapt training methods to accommodate them) as well as to adapt coaching on technique to meet a particular player’s strengths and weaknesses thus maximizing each individual’s potential. Further, methods may be developed for a particular team profile (collection of individual profiles) which may inform the most effective order and timing for joining a collision event in a game.

Sensors, typically pressure sensors, capable of determining applied pressure as well as, preferably, extent and duration of applied pressure should preferably be placed beneath the surface of the collision. Optionally, a multi-cell sensor element may be provided that covers a substantial portion and preferably the entire collision surface may be used and pressure data transmitted to a receiving device (e.g. a microprocessor) typically by wireless communication, where the data

-21 is analysed and presented back as output for immediate consumption by the user and/or the coach, e.g. in the form of number, graphs, charts or other visuals to illustrate the performance.

The invention will now be described in more detail, without limitation, with reference to the accompanying Figures.

In Figure 1, a training apparatus 1 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention is illustrated as having an elongate base 3, in the form of a sled, with a distal portion 5 and a proximal portion 7. The sled 3 extends in a generally horizontal longitudinal direction such that it may firmly support the apparatus on the training surface in use. The sled 3 comprises a base frame which provides the rigidity and form and a base plate 8 mounted on the upperside of the base frame. The base frame provides two spaced apart runner portions 9, 9’ which form the contact surface with the training surface (not shown, e.g. turf, clay or Astroturf). The pair of spaced apart runner portions 9, 9’ each extend between the proximal 7 and distal 5 portions of the base 3. The distal end 10, 10’ of each runner portion 9, 9’ provides a lip.

A collision support structure in the form of a support arm 20 is mounted on and extends upwardly from the proximal portion 7 of the base 3. The support arm 20 carries towards its upper end a collision member 14 which has a collision surface 16 which is impacted by a user during use.

The collision member 14 may be mounted using any suitable means of attachment to the support arm 20, preferably via a mounting plate 12. The collision member 14 is preferably releasably attached to the collision support 9 by for example Velcro™ fastenings, poppers, or zip fastenings, or may be screwed onto a mounting plate 12 itself mounted onto the support arm 20. Robust fixings are preferred in view of the robust treatment the apparatus 1 will receive. The collision member 14 is in the shape of a torso providing a planar collision surface

16. The collision member 14 may be composed of, for example, polyurethane foam with a leather or synthetic leather jacket.

The sled 3 further comprises a load attachment member in the form of a stacking pin 4. The stacking pin 4 is located in or near the proximal end 7 of

-22 the sled 3. Weights (e.g. weight plates) may be placed onto the stacking pin 4 so as to control the strength of hit required to move the apparatus a certain distance on the surface.

As will be explained in detail below a first end 22 of the support arm 20 is connected to the sled 3 by a linkage 32 which allows the arm to resiliently pivot about a first, transverse axis A which extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support arm 20 and parallel to the plane of the training surface (and base plane provided by the sled 3).

A spring arrangement is provided to bias the support arm 20 in a forward position. The spring arrangement may for example utilise a bungee arrangement. With reference to Figures 9 and 10, the first end 22 of the support arm 20 is provided with a bungee attachment feature 24 in the form of a bar 25 with hooked ends 26 to retain a spring or bungee cord (not shown) thereon. A fixed attachment point 27 is provided on the sled 3 to receive the other end of the bungee arrangement. The bungee attachment feature is positioned below the pivot axis A of the arm 20 such that a resilient rearward tension force from the spring arrangement will bias the support arm 20 forwardly relative to the sled 3.

A further linkage 34 is provided which allows for relative movement between the mounting plate 12 for the collision member 14 and the sled 3 about a second, longitudinal, axis B extending along or generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the collision support arm 20.

The apparatus specifically described may be fabricated from stainless steel or mild steel, preferably hollow, square, oblong or circular crosssection bars, sheet steel (e.g. for the base panel, which is preferably a 6 mm contoured chequered mild steel base panel), polyurethane foam (for the pad, e.g. reconstituted polyurethane) and leather or synthetic leather (e.g. PVC or PVCcoated woven fabric, for the pad jacket).

As noted above, in preferred embodiments a linkage 34 is provided such that the collision surface 16 and the mounting plate 12 are rotatable relative to the sled 3 about an axis B which extends along or generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the collision support arm 20. As shown in figure 8 the

-23 linkage 34 may comprise an arrangement which rotatably connects the collision surface 16 via the mounting plate 12 to the support arm 20 such that the support arm 20 may be considered to be a “spindle” on which the collision surface 16, via the mounting plate 12 is mounted.

The linkage 34 may include a bearing assembly 40 provided on the support arm 20 to rotatably mount the mounting plate 12. In the illustrated embodiment a pair of bearing assemblies 40, 40’ are provided which are spaced apart along the longitudinal length of the arm 20 but are substantially identical. Each bearing assembly 40, 40’ comprises a non-rotatable member 42 which is fixed to the arm 20. The non-rotatable member 42 may have a keyed interface with the arm 20. For example, it may be noted that the arm 20 has a rectangular outer cross-sectional profile and that the non-rotatable member 42 has a corresponding profile. Alternatively or additionally, the non-rotatable member 42 could be nonrotatably fastened to the support arm 20, for example by welding. The bearing assembly 40, 40’ further comprises a support plate 44, 44’ which includes an interface (for example a flange) for connection to the collision member 14 or mounting plate 12. The support plate 44, 44’ is attached to a retaining plate 46 which is positioned on the opposing side of the non-rotatable member 42 such that the non-rotatable member 42 is captive therebetween. As seen in Figure 8, the retaining plate 46 and support plate 44, 44’ may, for example be connected by a plurality of threaded connectors 48 which are spaced around the circumference of the retaining plate 46 and support plate 44, 44’. The non-rotatable member 42 has a lesser diameter than the retaining plate 46 and support plate 44, 44’ such that the connectors 48 can freely rotate around the non-rotatable member 42 in use. It will be appreciated that to ensure smooth rotation and to meet any desired longitudinal tolerances, the bearing assembly 40, 40’ may also include suitable spacer members, washers or bearing structures 49 sandwiched between the retaining plate 46 and support plate 44, 44’ during assembly. Rotation of the retaining plate 46 and support plate 44, 44’ relative to the arm 20 may be adjustably limited such that the maximum rotation of the collision surface 16 is set to a predetermined value.

-24 With particular reference to Figure 6, the setting mechanism 50 for adjusting the initial angle of the support arm 20, and therefore collision surface 16, relative to the sled 3 prior to use will now be described. In a simple embodiment the setting mechanism could simply rotate the support arm 20 about its axis A (which is defined by a pivotable connection 52) to adjust the angle of the arm prior to use. However, such an arrangement would result in altering of the pretensioning of the bungee spring so would either require subsequent spring adjustment (which can be achieved, for example, by attaching further bungees, increasing the tension of the bungees or winding them about the fixing on more loops) or would give a different resilient response depending upon the pre-set angle selected.

Accordingly, the illustrated embodiment utilises a setting mechanism 50 which is arranged to adjust the location of the pivot axle 52 of the support arm 20 relative to the base 3. The setting mechanism 50 comprises a cam arrangement 51 consisting of a pair of spaced apart plates 54a, 54b which rotatably support the axle 52 of the arm 20. A lower portion 56 of the plates 54a, 54b is pivotably connected to the support base by a cam pivot axle 55. The cam pivot axle 55 is located relatively close to the lower end 22 of the support arm 20 (which it will be appreciated reduces the movement of the bungee attachment points 24 when the cam 51 is adjusted). The distal end of the cam plates 54a, 54b are connected by a transverse member 56 which provides a convenient holding point for the user during adjustment. A position setting pin 58 is provided which is removably insertable through a pair of opposing apertures 59 in the cam plates 54a, 54b.

The sled 3 includes a bracket 60 which is configured to receive and support the setting mechanism 50 and the support arm 20. The bracket includes a fixed arcuate slot 62 through which the pivot axle 52 of the support arm 20 extends. The arcuate slot 62 allows the pivot axle 25 to be moved through a range of positions relative to the sled 3 during adjustment and may also delimit the maximum and minimum angles of the support arm 20 relative to the sled 3. A series of predetermined support arm positions for example 5°, 15° and 25° from

-25 vertical, may be defined on the bracket 60. The predetermined positions may be provided by an array of apertures or tubes 64.

In use, the user may adjust the angle of the support arm 20 to a predetermined value by grasping the positioning handle 56 and removing the position setting pin 58 from the apertures 69 to free the cam arrangement 51. The cam may then be rotated about the cam pivot axle 55 to increase or decrease the angle of the support arm 20. As the cam 50 is rotated the pivot axle 52 moves along the arcuate slots 62 of the bracket. The user may bring the cam 50 into alignment with one of the predetermined positions provided by the apertures or tubes 64 of the bracket and re-secure the support arm 20 for use by inserting the setting pin 58 through the aligned apertures 59 and the chosen aperture or tube 64.

The user may then run towards and collide with the collision portion 20 on the collision surface 16 of the arm 20. If a ‘good’ collision is achieved, the base 3 moves a corresponding amount in a collision direction (which is defined as a direction extending parallel to an axis extending from the proximal to the distal end of the base). The extent of movement may be controlled by the weight of the apparatus (and in particular of the base 3), and any additional weights placed on the load attachment member and/or by the nature and/or configuration of a contact surface (for contacting a training surface) and the degree of freedom or resistance to movement imparted thereby. The support arm 20 may also pivot to a predetermined degree about pivot axle 52 in response to the collision force.

If however the user does not make contact with the collision portion 20 on the collision surface 16 of the arm 20 in the correct technical position (e.g. optimally collision zone) the impact will be lessened through the apparatus 1. In particular, the base 3 will not move relative to the training surface, especially not in the desired collision direction, or movement of the base 3 will be reduced. Furthermore, the collision portion 20 will rotate as a result of linkage 34 about longitudinal axis B of the arm 20 causing the player to be thrown away from the collision surface. Thereby, the apparatus encourages and trains the player to make contact with the collision surface at an optimal collision zone. The apparatus

-26 provides instant feedback to the player with regards to the quality of their technique

The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it will be appreciated that variations and modifications can be effected by a person of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A training apparatus comprising a base for supporting the apparatus; and a collision surface disposed in a generally upright arrangement relative to the base, wherein the collision surface is configured to pivot relative to the base about a transverse axis or is configured in relation to the base to provide at least one predetermined limited degree of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface; and/or wherein the collision surface is configured to rotate about an upright axis.

2. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the collision surface is configured in relation to the base to pivot relative to the base about a transverse axis or to provide at least one predetermined limited degree of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface, and wherein the collision surface is configured to rotate about an upright axis.

3. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the collision surface is configured to pivot relative to the base about a transverse axis.

4. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base is for supporting the apparatus on a training surface and comprises one or more training surface-contacting members defining a base plane.

5. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 4, which is moveably responsive to a force by a user against the collision surface during use and wherein the base is moveably responsive to a force by a user against the collision surface during use.

6. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the collision surface is disposed in relation to a collision support structure mounted on the base.

-28

7.

A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the training apparatus is a blocking sled.

8. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 1, having a collision surface and which is movably responsive to a force transmitted by a user impacting the collision surface during use, the apparatus comprising:

9. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein the linkage provides relative rotation between the collision surface and base.

10. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the linkage provides relative rotation between the collision surface and base about a transverse axis extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the collision support structure and parallel to the base plane.

-29

11. A training apparatus as claimed in either of claims 9 and 10, in which the collision support structure is pivotally mounted on the base at or proximal to a first end of the collision support structure to be rotatable about the transverse axis.

12. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 11, in which the collision support structure is resiliently mounted on the base to provide resistance to rotation about the transverse axis.

13. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 12, in which the apparatus comprises an adjustable resilient biasing mechanism to resist rotation of the collision support structure about the transverse axis.

14. A training apparatus as claimed in either of claims 12 and 13, in which the resilient biasing mechanism comprises an adjustable bungee system.

15. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 14, further comprising a setting mechanism for adjusting the initial angle of the collision surface relative to the base prior to use.

16. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein the setting mechanism adjusts the location of the transverse axis relative to the base.

17. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein the collision support structure is pivotally mounted to the base and the setting mechanism adjusts the position of the pivot.

18. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 17, wherein the setting mechanism comprises a cam arrangement pivotable about a fixed axis on the base, the cam carrying the pivot of the support structure.

-3019. A training apparatus as claimed in any of claims 15 to 18, wherein the setting mechanism defines a selectable plurality of predetermined alignment angles between the base and the collision support structure.

20. A training apparatus as claimed in any of claims 15 to 19, in which the initial angle formed between the longitudinal axis of the elongate collision structure and the plane of the base is adjustable between 95 degrees and 115 degrees.

21. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 20, in which the degree of rotation about the transverse axis when force is transmitted by a user is limited to no more than 25 degrees.

22. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 21, in which the degree of rotation about the transverse axis when force is transmitted by a user is limited to at least 5 degrees.

23. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 22, wherein the linkage provides relative rotation between the collision surface and base about an axis extending substantially perpendicular to the base plane.

24. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 23, wherein the linkage provides relative rotation between the collision surface and base about a longitudinal axis extending along or generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the collision support structure.

25. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 24, in which a first end of the collision support structure is mounted on the base, and a rotation collision assembly is mounted at or near a second opposed end of the elongate collision structure to provide the collision surface, and in which the rotation collision assembly is rotatable about the longitudinal axis.

-31

26. A training apparatus as claimed in claim claim 24 or claim 25, in which the maximum degree of rotation about the longitudinal axis is adjustable.

27. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 26, in which the maximum degree

5 of rotation about the longitudinal axis is selected from a range of discrete maximum values comprising: 90 degrees, 67.5 degrees and 45 degrees.

28. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 27, in which the collision structure is mounted at or near a proximal end of the base.

29. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 28, in which the base is moveably responsive to the transmitted force in a direction extending along or substantially parallel to a direction extending from a proximal end towards a distal end of the base so as to move the base relative to the training surface.

30. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 29, in which the base comprises a base plate mounted on a pair of spaced apart runner portions, each runner portion extending from or near a proximal end towards a distal end of the base.

31. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 30, in which each runner portion has an inclined lip at a distal end thereof.

32. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 31, in which the 25 base comprises a platform, in which the first end of the collision support structure extends upwardly from the platform; and a support frame, and in which the platform is moveable relative to the support frame in response to force transmitted by the user to the collision surface.

-3233. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 32, further comprising at least one load attachment member arranged to receive one or more weight plates.

34. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 33, wherein the collision surface is a surface of a collision member mounted or mountable on the collision support structure.

35. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 34, further comprising one or a plurality of sensors provided in association with the collision surface in order to determine one or more of point of contact, duration of contact and strength of contact, to generate data relating to same and to communicate said data to a data analysis means.

36. A training apparatus kit comprising:

-33

37. A training apparatus kit as claimed in claim 36, further comprising one or more collision members providing a collision surface, which collision members are mounted or mountable on the collision support structure.

5

38. A training apparatus having a collision surface and which is movably responsive to a force transmitted by a user impacting the collision surface during use, the apparatus comprising:

10 and extending in a longitudinal direction substantially aligned with the training surface; and a collision support structure extending upwardly from the base for supporting a collision surface to be impacted by a user during use;

and wherein the collision support structure includes a linkage providing 15 relative movement between the collision surface and the base, and wherein the linkage provides at two predetermined limited degrees of freedom of movement between the base and the collision surface when force is transmitted by the user to the collision surface.

20

39. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims as hereinbefore described with reference to the drawings.

-34Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: Claims searched:

GB1609579.6

1-38