GB2612955A - Martial arts training system - Google Patents

Abstract

A freestanding martial arts training system 100 includes an upstanding punch bag 102 coupled to a weighted base 106 via a flexible damping connection 108. The system 100 is selectively arrangeable in a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the punch bag 102 is moveable in a rocking motion relative to the base 106 via the flexing of the flexible damping connection 108. In the second configuration, rocking motions of the punch bag 102 relative to the base are inhibited by a rigid element 110 which resists bending motions of the flexible damping connection 108. Also disclosed are punch bags 102, mounting columns 104 for punch bags 102, and weighted bases 106 which provide the ability to place the system 100 into these two configurations.

Description

Martial Arts Training System The invention relates generally to martial arts training systems and methods of use, and more particularly to portable martial arts training systems, and to their subcomponents.

It is known to use large padded heavy bags to train for martial arts. These bags, sometimes referred to as punch bags, are used to train for sports such as boxing, kick boxing, MMA (mixed martial arts) and other martial arts which involve punching, kicking, etc. by providing a reasonably forgiving surface for a user to hit. This allows the user to practice their movements while minimising injury and without requiring a human partner to spar with.

Punch bags for their part must be able to withstand the repeated hits to which they are subjected. Not only does this require that the bag be manufactured from materials which are tough and sturdy enough to resist degradation, but also that the punch bag is held in place firmly enough for a user to hit the bag without the bag falling over or otherwise moving into an impractical position or orientation.

For this reason, punch bags are usually fixed in place, either to the ground or suspended from a ceiling. However, in the modern world, many gyms and recreation spaces are increasingly tending towards mixed-use spaces. This means that there is currently a drive away from training equipment which is fixed in place.

The present invention aims to address some, or all of the issues set out above. In particular, there is a need for punch bags which can easily be transported and stored.

Disclosed herein is a freestanding martial arts training system comprising an upstanding punch bag coupled to a weighted base via a flexible damping connection; wherein the system is selectively arrangeable in: a first configuration in which the punch bag is moveable in a rocking motion relative to the base via the flexing of the flexible damping connection; and a second configuration in which rocking motions of the punch bag relative to the base are inhibited by a rigid element which resists bending motions of the flexible damping connection.

This system is freestanding, and therefore requires very little in the way of permanent mounting accessories, thereby allowing the system to be deployed when needed, and put away when not needed. Punch bags are usually reasonably tall relative to their width to accommodate a large range of user heights. Typical dimensions are between about 75cm and about 180cm tall and have a generally cylindrical shape with a diameter of about 20cm to about 40cm.

This relatively tall, thin shape can lead to a large lever action on freestanding systems, which in turn can lead to harder hitters knocking the bag over. For this reason, the present system provides a flexible damping connection to provide flexibility between the weighted base and the punch bag.

In the first configuration (sometimes referred to as "fight mode"), this connection may also provide a more realistic hitting experience for a user and help to prevent joint damage by providing a degree of "give" in the hitting. In addition, the flexible connection optionally provides a restoring force to bring the punchbag back to its neutral, upstanding arrangement (e.g. the flexible damping connection biases the punch bag towards extending perpendicularly from the weighted base), while the damping effect of the connection ensures that the punch bag returns to this arrangement without undue oscillation (which could be off-putting for a user). In other words, the first configuration is an "in use" configuration in which a user may actively train with the system.

The second configuration (sometimes referred to as "storage mode" and/or "transport mode") inhibits these motions. This can help the system be moved and stored without risking injury or damage to the system. The second configuration can be thought of as one in which the flexible damping connection is "shorted out". In other words, the rigid element acts to bypass the flexible damping connection and thereby to inhibit the flexing motion. This can be useful because attempting to move the system can be problematic when the punch bag (which is reasonably heavy) is able to move relative to the weighted base; it can be difficult to maintain a firm grip.

In addition, when storing the system, it is not always possible to store the system standing up, and it may be desirable to lie the system down or store it tilted against a wall. This may be detrimental to the flexible damping connection if left in such an off-centre position regularly and/or for long periods. By storing the system in the second configuration instead, such strain on the connection is avoided and the lifespan of the system is improved. In some cases, the second configuration may rigidly resist all rocking motions, in others, the rocking motions are simply inhibited. For example, the second configuration may have a rigidity of connection sufficient to achieve the advantages set out above in respect of the second configuration.

Optionally, the martial arts training system further comprises a rigid upstanding mounting column coupled to the base for supporting the punch bag, wherein the flexible mounting connection is located on the mounting column. The separation of roles between the punch bag and the mounting column (and associated flexible damping connection) means that the system can be repaired in a modular manner, should either the bag or the mounting column wear out or become damaged.

In some examples, the punch bag has an outer padded layer mounted on a hollow rigid tubular member, the hollow rigid tubular member defining a central cavity for receiving the upstanding mounting column. This arrangement can assist in providing the modular nature of the system. In such cases transitions between the first and second configurations may include moving the punch bag axially with respect to the mounting column. This is a simple motion to make and does not interfere with the usual operation of the system. In addition, it is easy to tell which configuration the system is in by noting the height at which the punch bag is mounted above the weighted base, thereby allowing a user to interact appropriately with the system without undertaking an extensive examination.

In such systems, the second configuration may include the hollow rigid member overlapping the flexible damping connection; while in the first configuration the hollow rigid member may not overlap the flexible damping connection. In some cases, "may not overlap" should be interpreted as "may not fully overlap", in other cases it is more appropriate to interpret this as "does not overlap at all". This provides a simple means by which the flexible damping connection can be bypassed, and rigidity brought to the coupling between the weighted base and the punch bag. For example, the hollow rigid member may surround the flexible damping connection and act to brace the punch bag against rocking motions by coupling the punch bag to the weighted base. This support arrangement acts to "short circuit" the flexible damping connection in order to inhibit the rocking motions.

The mounting column and the hollow rigid tubular member may have cooperating engagement elements for guiding the motion of the punch bag relative to the mounting column to transition between the first and second configurations. For example, the cooperating engagement elements may have the form of a pin on one of the mounting column and the hollow rigid tubular member, the pin being arranged to run in a groove provided on the other one of the mounting column and the hollow rigid tubular member. The groove may be shaped specifically to allow the relative alignment of the mounting column and the punch bag (via the hollow rigid tubular member) to stably rest in at least the two configurations. In other cases, the cooperating engagement elements may have the form of a screw thread, which allows a user to rotate the punch bag to screw the punch bag up and down the column to any relative axial position which the user desires.

The mounting column and/or the hollow rigid tubular member may include locking means to hold the system in at least one of the two configurations, e.g., features which provide stable points in the pin and groove system to maintain the relative axial positions of the two components, or by providing resistance to rotations beyond a certain point in systems where the cooperating engagement means are screw threads. In yet further cases a separate locking mechanism may be provided to hold the system in the first and/or second configuration. In some cases, the weight of the bag under gravity may be sufficient to hold the system in one or both of the configurations.

In some cases, the punch bag is removeable from the mounting column. This can allow the punch bag to be removed from the system and replaced, e.g., to replace a damaged punch bag, or to change the punch bag to provide a different sized punch bag to account for different user's preferences.

The flexible damping connection may be formed from rubber or polymers. These are readily available in a variety of physical properties, for example to allow the stiffness to be altered to adapt to the desired conditions. For example, heavier punch bags may benefit from stiffer connections. The connection may be similar to the universal windsurfing joint in some examples, albeit adapted to the specific use in the context of martial arts training systems.

The weighted base may have a weight of between 50kg and 150kg, preferably between 75kg and 125kg, more preferably between 90kg and 110kg; most preferably of at least about 100kg. These weights have been found to be adequate to prevent the system toppling even when hard hitting users use the system. In some examples the weight of the weighted base is variable. This can allow different weights to be used with different users.

The weighted base may include selectively deployable wheels. This can allow the system to be converted into an easily portable system for transporting the system, by deploying the wheels. The wheels can be placed in their undeployed state in order to use the system, thereby providing a stable configuration for the user to hit the punch bag. As an example of selectively deployable wheels, a pair of wheels may be located on an upwardly sloping exterior surface of the weighted base, for example adjacent to a flat lower surface of the weighted base, the flat lower surface being operable as a flat surface to rest the system and hold it stably in an upright position. The wheels may be positioned adjacent to the flat lower surface such that the wheels are arranged not to be in contact with the ground when the flat lower surface is resting ground. The wheels are then selectively deployable by tilting the system so that the flat lower surface is no longer fully in contact with the ground, and the weight of the system rests on the wheels. The wheels are then easily de-deployed by allowing the weighted base to rest with its flat lower surface on the ground again, thereby disengaging the wheels from the ground.

In some cases, the weighted base includes a mechanism for transitioning the system between the first and second configurations. In other words, rather than relying on the interaction between a mounting column and a punch bag, as in the examples above, the portions of the system which allow the transition between the two configurations may be provided entirely on the weighted base, thereby allowing users freedom to select from a wide variety of punch bags according to their needs, since the functional aspects of the transitioning process are provided on other parts of the system.

As an example, the mechanism for transitioning the system between the two configurations may be a rigid hollow tube slidable with respect to the base to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection. This operates in a similar manner to the rigid hollow tubular member interacting with the mounting column discussed above in the sense that when the rigid hollow tube is raised from the weighted base, the overlap of the rigid hollow tube with the flexible damping connection provides a bracing effect to bypass the flexible damping connection and inhibit rocking motions of the punch bag (i.e., the system is in the second configuration when the rigid hollow tube is raised). In this case the first configuration corresponds to the rigid hollow tube being lowered, e.g., held in a shaped recess in the weighted base so that the rigid hollow tube does not protrude upwardly from the weighted base.

In further examples, the mechanism is a rigid rod which slides internally inside the flexible damping connection. Once more, the result is that the flexible damping connection can be prevented from flexing, and the system thereby is placed into the second configuration when the rigid rod extends through the flexible damping coupling. When the rod does not extend through the flexible damping coupling the system is in the first configuration. The position of the rod in cases where a rod is used rather than a tubular member may be thought of as a rigid element overlapping the flexible damping connection (albeit inside the flexible damping connection) in the sense that the flexible damping connection and the rigid element occupy the same axial locations and as non-overlapping where the axial extent of the rigid element and the flexible damping connection do not align.

In yet further examples, the mounting column may include a mechanism for transitioning the system between the first and second configurations. This may operate in much the same manner as discussed above in respect to such mechanisms being provided on the weighted base. In other words, the mechanism may be a rigid elongate member slidable with respect to the mounting column to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection. The rigid elongate member may be a rigid hollow tube slidable with respect to the mounting column to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection. This operates in a similar manner to that described above in the sense that when the rigid hollow tube is lowered to overlap the flexible damping connection, a bracing effect is provided to bypass the flexible damping connection and inhibit rocking motions of the punch bag (i.e., the system is in the second configuration). In this case the first configuration corresponds to the rigid hollow tube being raised, so that the rigid hollow tube does not overlap the flexible damping connection.

In further examples, the mechanism on the mounting column may be a rigid rod which slides internally inside the flexible damping connection. Once more, the result is that the flexible damping connection can be prevented from flexing, and the system thereby is placed into the second configuration when the rigid rod extends through the flexible damping coupling. When the rod does not extend through the flexible damping coupling the system is in the first configuration.

As will be apparent from the above discussion, there are several closely related ways in which the various subcomponents of the system may interact with one another to achieve the advantageous effects. Consequently, the disclosure also extends to each of these subcomponents for use in the overall system. This is beneficial because each of the subcomponents can be supplied to provide the advantageous effects set out above, but without a user needing to acquire the full system. This allows a user to retrofit their existing equipment to upgrade it to achieve the advantageous effects set out above.

One such further disclosure set out herein is a punch bag for use in the system described above, comprising: an outer padded layer mounted on a hollow rigid tubular member, the hollow rigid tubular member defining a central cavity for receiving an upstanding mounting column; and engagement elements for holding the punch bag in at least two axial locations relative to the upstanding mounting column. Optionally the engagement elements are arranged to cooperate with corresponding engagement elements on the upstanding mounting column. In other cases, the engagement elements may be arranged to selectively grip a mounting column at desired heights, without the need for the mounting column to be adapted for the specific purposes set out herein, for example by making use of expandable or inflatable members to selectively extend inwardly into the hollow cavity and provide a gripping effect on a mounting column located within the cavity. This is particularly advantageous as it requires very little in the way of specific features to be present on the mounting column, and thereby allows for a wider range of legacy systems to be upgraded using just the punch bag.

A second such further disclosure set out herein is a mounting column for a punch bag, the mounting column being arranged for use in the system described above and comprising: a rigid upstanding portion for receiving a punch bag; a portion for affixing to a weighted base; and a flexible damping connection located between the rigid upstanding portion and the portion for affixing to the weighted base; wherein the rigid upstanding portion has elements configurable to allow or inhibit flexing of the flexible damping connection. Optionally the elements are engagement elements for cooperating with corresponding engagement elements on the punch bag. In other examples, the mounting column may be provided with a slidable tube or rod to slide respectively outside of or within the flexible damping connection, to selectively brace the flexible damping connection against flexing. In some cases, for example, the mounting column may have expandable or inflatable members to selectively extend outwardly and grip the walls of a hollow cavity of a punch bag mounted on the mounting column and thereby provide a gripping effect to hold the punch bag at a desired height (and therefore hold the system in a desired configuration).

A third such further disclosure set out herein is a weighted base for use in the system described above, comprising: a base body having a lower surface for resting on the ground; a portion for affixing a mounting column located on an upper surface, opposite the lower surface; selectively deployable wheels on the base body; and a rigid elongate member located on the upper surface adjacent to the portion for affixing the mounting column, the rigid elongate member being slidable with respect to the base to transition the system between the first and second configurations when a mounting column is affixed to the base.

Optionally the rigid elongate member is a hollow tube or a rod, operating much as described above in respect of the mechanism located only on the mounting column.

Each of the subcomponents described above (punch bag, mounting column, weighted base) represents a series of interrelated products in the sense that they are intended to be used together, each being directed to the solution of the same general technical problem (which is the same problem addressed by the overall system), as is evident from the discussions set out herein. For this reason, it is noted that each of the various examples described above are best viewed as a single, unified invention. Note for example that each of the subcomponents is entirely encompassed within the description of the overall system.

In some of the cases set out above in which the second configuration includes a rigid element overlapping the flexible damping connection, it is possible for there to be partial overlaps. Most commonly, this partial overlap will allow substantially the same amount of rocking as the first configuration, and therefore forms part of the first configuration. In such cases, the second configuration is one in which the rigid element fully or substantially fully overlaps the flexible damping connection. In other examples, a partial overlap of the rigid element with the flexible damping connection may be sufficient to place the system into the second configuration.

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which: Figure 1A shows a martial arts training system in a first configuration; Figure 1B shows the martial arts training system of Figure 1A in a second configuration during storage; Figure 1C shows the martial arts training system of Figure 1A in the second configuration during transport; Figure 2A shows the martial arts training system of Figures 1A to 1C with its punchbag removed to show the internal structure; Figure 2B shows a punch bag for use with the martial arts training system of Figure 2A; Figures 3A and 3B show schematics of the martial arts training system of Figures 2A and 2B, highlighting the transition between first and second configurations; Figure 3C shows schematics of different shapes of groove for use in facilitating a transition between the first and second configurations; and Figures 4A and 4B show a weighted base for use in a martial arts training system, highlighting the transition between first and second configurations.

Figures 1A to 1C show an overview of a martial arts training system 100. In Figure 1A, the system 100 is shown in a first, "fight mode" configuration in which a user may train with the system 100 by punching, kicking, etc. a punch bag 102. The punch bag is coupled to a weighted base 106 via a flexible damping connection 108, such that the punch bag 102 upstands vertically from the weighted base 106. The weighted base 106 has a flat lower surface 128 which rests on the ground. Clearly the flat lower surface 128 helps the system 100 stand stably upright. Also provided are wheels 120, located in a slight recess 122 near the outer edge of the flat lower surface 128. This recess 122 has the form of an upwardly sloping bevelled region. Opposing the flat lower surface 128 of the base is an upper surface 126 of the base.

The flexible damping connection 108 means that when a user hits the punch bag 102, some of the force causes the flexible damping coupling 108 to flex, and the punch bag 102 to undergo a rocking motion thereby reducing force transmission to the weighted base 106 and making toppling of the system 100 much less likely.

As can be seen the punch bag 102 (and indeed the system 100 in general) has a vertically oriented elongate configuration, typically having a punch bag 102 of height between 75cm and 180cm, and a diameter of around 20cm to 40cm. This can lead to a strong lever effect on the weighted base 106 from hits made by a user. The flexible damping connection 108 reduces the chance that any such strong lever effects which arise will topple the system 100.

In combination with the weighted base 106, the system 100 is able to be used in a freestanding arrangement, that is, without the need for permanent mounting accessories and allowing the system 100 to be easily transported and stored. A weighted base of no more than 100kg may be used in this example without even the hardest hitters risking a toppling event. In some cases, the weight in the base 106 may be changeable, e.g. to adapt to different users. The weight itself may be provided by fixed or removeable elements such as iron weights, sandbags, etc. Moreover, the flexible damping connection 108 provides a damping effect, which prevents the rocking motion which the punch bag 102 is permitted to undergo (in response to hits, which flex the flexible damping connection 108) from becoming a long-term oscillation, instead biasing the punch bag 102 to its upstanding configuration. Typically, the damping is sufficient to ensure that the punch bag 102 returns to the neutral, upright, position in no more than about 1 second, or even less in some cases.

Finally, the punch bag 102 and the flexible damping connection 108 both act to reduce strain on a user's joints by providing some give in the system. That the flexible damping connection 108 allows the punch bag to move away from a hit prevents over-straining a user's joints. Similarly, as is common, the punch bag 102 has a padded outer layer which allows some compression in response to a hit and also protects a user's joints and provides a more realistic hitting experience.

In Figure 1B, the system 100 is shown in a second, "storage mode" configuration. The transition between the first and second configurations is discussed in more detail elsewhere in this document. For now, note that in this example the difference between the two configurations is that the punch bag 102 is spaced apart from the weighted base 106 in the first configuration, while the punch bag 102 is closer to the weighted base 106 (and in some cases is in contact with the weighted base 106) in the second configuration.

In the second configuration, the rocking and/or flexing motions of the flexible damping connection 108 are inhibited. This means that the punch bag 102 is not moveable in a pivoting motion relative to the weighted base 106. This is achieved (as discussed in more detail elsewhere herein) by introducing a rigid element to brace the flexible damping connection 108 and prevent it from bending. This has the effect of bypassing the flexible damping connection 108 and providing a rigid coupling between the punch bag 102 and the weighted base 106.

In this storage configuration, the system 100 can be leant against a wall, or even laid on its side if needed, without the flexible damping connection 108 bending. This allows the system 100 to be stored in these positions, as needed, without damaging the system 100, even where the system 100 is stored in this manner regularly or for long periods of time. Even when stored upright (with the flat lower surface 128 resting on the ground), the system 100 is more stable in the sense that the rigid coupling between the punch bag 102 and the weighted base 106 prevents rocking motions while in storage mode, which in turn reduces the chance that the system 100 will be knocked into other items in e.g. a crowded store cupboard.

As shown in Figures 1B and 1C, the system 100 has selectively deployable wheels 120. In the example shown, the wheels 120 are selectively deployable by virtue of their being located on an upwardly sloping exterior region 122, which as shown is a bevelled portion located adjacent to the flat lower surface 128. The wheels 120 are selectively deployable by tilting the system 100 to bring the wheels 120 into contact with the ground and to lift the flat lower surface 128 away from the ground, as shown in Figure 1C. In this arrangement, the system 100 can be easily and safely transported. In both of Figures 1B and 1C the system is also in the second, sometimes referred to as "transport mode", configuration. In this configuration the punch bag 102 remains rigidly coupled to the weighted base 106 and therefore extends upstandingly from the weighted base 106 as the whole system 100 is tilted. This ensures that the system 100 is easy to move because the restricted motion of the punch bag 102 makes the system 100 overall more predictable for a user. In the example shown, a tilt angle of 40° or so from the vertical (upright) arrangement to engage the wheels with the floor, but of course this is a mere example and different values may be chosen depending on the desired operational parameters.

Once the system 100 has been moved to the desired new location, it is simple to "un-deploy" the wheels 120 by pivoting the system 100 so that the wheels 120 disengage with the ground and the flat lower portion 128 rests on the ground. This allows the system 100 to be quickly and easily returned to the first, "fight mode", configuration with the wheels 120 no longer in contact with the ground. In some cases, the flat lower surface 128 may be provided with a gripping surface, e.g. a textured, rough, or roughened surface may be provided to help prevent the system 100 from sliding during use in fight mode. The provision of two wheels 120 as shown may improve stability during transport. In some cases, two wheels 120 may be provided which are able to rotate independently of one another, which can help to improve the control and/or handling of the system 100 during transport.

Other examples of selectively deployable wheels 120 which may be used are the use of a single wide multi-direction "ball" wheel system, and/or retractable wheels 120 which can be lowered into contact with the ground to deploy them and retracted to "un-deploy".

Turning now to Figures 2A and 28, the system 100 is shown partially disassembled to better show the internal workings. Figure 2A shows the weighted base 106 with a mounting column 104 for holding the punch bag 102. Similarly, Figure 2B shows the punch bag 102 itself, independently from the rest of the system 100.

The weighted base 106 is similar to that shown in Figures 1A to 1C and overlapping features will not be described again in detail. Extending upwardly from an upper surface 126 of the weighted base 106 is a first connector 118 for coupling to the flexible damping connection 108. The flexible damping connection 108 is in turn coupled to a second connector 118 to which a mounting column 104 is coupled. The connectors 118 can be chosen to match those of legacy punch bag systems, to provide for interoperability. In this way, the mounting column 104 is coupled to the weighted base 106 via the flexible damping connection 108, in a manner which allows for quick and easy assembly and disassembly. This assembly/disassembly arrangement means that the system 100 can quickly be upgraded to include the various features described herein, replace worn out or damaged parts, or simply replace parts of the system 100 with other parts having different physical properties (e.g., a different stiffness of the flexible damping connection 108 to adapt to different hitting strengths). The flexible damping connection 108 may be formed from rubber or polymers.

These are readily available in a variety of physical properties, for example to allow the stiffness to be altered to adapt to the desired conditions. For example, heavier punch bags 102 may benefit from stiffer connections 108. The flexible damping connection 108 may be similar to the universal windsurfing joint in some examples, albeit adapted to the specific use in the context of martial arts training systems 100.

The mounting column 104 has a groove 116 formed in it, which allows the punch bag 102 (see Figure 2B) to be mounted on to the mounting column 104. The mounting column 104 is sufficiently rigid to support the punch bag 102 in a broadly upright orientation. As noted above, of course, in the "fight mode" configuration, the punch bag 102 is able to pivot relative to the weighted base 106 from time to time in response to forces such as user hits, by virtue of flexing of the flexible damping connection 108. However, these "off-vertical" arrangements are necessarily temporary, even in the first configuration, and in general the equilibrium position is with the mounting column 104 and punch bag 102 standing generally vertically upward from the weighted base 106.

In Figure 2B, the punch bag 102 is shown from below. It can be seen that the punch bag 102 has an outer padded layer 112 and a hollow rigid tubular member 110 surrounding a central axis. The hollow rigid tubular member 110 defines a central cavity in the punch bag for receiving the mounting column 104 (see Figure 2A). In addition a pin 114 is provided on an internal surface of the hollow rigid tubular member 110, such that the pin 114 is able to interface with the groove 116 on the upstanding mounting column 104. Excess space in the hollow rigid tubular member 110 (e.g., above the upper end of the mounting column 104 when the punch bag 102 is mounted on the mounting column 104) may be filled with foam or other padding, if desired.

In the example shown in Figures 2A and 2B, transitions between the first and second configurations include moving the punch bag 102 axially (in a direction aligned with its cylindrical axis of symmetry) with respect to the mounting column 104 (i.e. sliding the punch bag 102 along the mounting column 104). This is a simple motion to make in the present example and does not interfere with the usual operation of the system 100. In addition, it is easy to tell which configuration the system 100 is in by noting the height at which the punch bag 102 is mounted above the weighted base 106, thereby allowing a user to interact appropriately with the system 100.

It is apparent that sliding the punch bag 102 axially downwards will cause the hollow rigid tubular member 110 to overlap the flexible damping connection 108. This in turn braces the punch bag against e.g., the surrounding connectors 118, and thereby inhibit flexing motions of the flexible damping connection 108 -the system 100 is in the second configuration. Similarly, raising the punch bag 102 from this position results in less or no overlap of the hollow rigid tubular member 110 with the flexible damping connection 108, and flexing motions are possible -the system 100 is in the first configuration. This provides a simple means by which the flexible damping connection 108 can be bypassed, and rigidity brought to the coupling between the weighted base 106 and the punch bag 102 (via the mounting column 104). In this example, the hollow rigid tubular member 110 surrounds the flexible damping connection 108 and acts to brace the punch bag 102 against rocking motions by coupling the punch bag 102 to the weighted base 106. This support arrangement acts to "short circuit" the flexible damping connection 108 in order to inhibit the rocking motions.

The interaction of the punch bag 102 and the mounting column 104 is shown in detail in Figures 3A and 3B, specifically with regard to transitioning between the first configuration ("fight mode") and the second configuration ("storage/transport mode"). In these Figures, the outer padded layer 112 of the punch bag 102 is removed entirely to show the inner workings, and the hollow rigid tubular member 110 is shown in dashed outline to show the interaction between the pin 114 and the groove 116. In Figure 3A the punch bag 102 is mounted low down on the mounting column 104 such that the hollow rigid tubular member 110 fully overlaps the flexible damping connection 108, meaning that the flexible damping connection 108 is not able to flex because the hollow rigid tubular member 110 is braced against the two connectors 118. In this configuration therefore, rocking motions of the punch bag 102 relative to the weighted base 106 are inhibited. By contrast, it can be seen in Figure 3B, that the system 100 is shown in fight mode. Here, the mounting location of the punch bag 102 on the mounting column 104 is such that the hollow rigid tubular member 110 does not fully overlap the flexible damping connection 108, meaning that the flexible damping connection 108 is able to flex and allow rocking motions of the punch bag 102 relative to the weighted base 106.

It is clear in Figures 3A to 30 that the punch bag 102 is able to be held stably in each of the two configurations by virtue of the interaction between the pin 114 and the groove 116. More specifically, the groove 116 is shown being shaped to have a short vertical I-shaped portion of groove 116, which joins a [-shaped portion part way along the upper horizontal portion of the [-shaped portion of the groove 116. The upper end of the vertical part of the I-shaped portion may be widened (as shown here) to simplify the process of mounting the punch bag 102 onto the mounting column 104, by allowing the groove 116 to provide a funnelling effect for the pin 114. The pin 114 can be fed into the top of the I-shaped portion and the punch bag 102 slid axially relative to the mounting column 104 until the pin enters the [-shaped portion of the groove 116. At this stage, an anticlockwise rotation of the punch bag 102 (front portion moves to the right) causes the pin to move horizontally (or circumferentially) to the end of the upper horizontal portion of the [-shaped portion of the groove 116. This may have a slight downwardly directed portion, approximately at least as long as the size of the pin 114, to hold the punch bag 102 in place under its own weight in this configuration, which corresponds to "fight mode".

Alternatively, from the bottom of the I-shaped portion, the punch bag 102 may be rotated clockwise (front moves left) to move the pin 114 horizontally (or circumferentially) to the top left corner of the [-shaped portion of the groove 116. From here, a further axial motion can be made to move the punch bag 102 downwards and to force the pin 114 into the lower left corner of the [-shaped portion. A final anticlockwise rotation of the punch bag 102 causes the pin 114 to move to the right-hand end of the lower horizontal portion of the [-shaped portion of the groove 116. This is the lowered, "transport/storage mode" configuration in which the flexible damping connection 108 is not able to flex.

The pin 114 and groove 116 operate as cooperating engagement elements for guiding the motion of the punch bag 102 relative to the mounting column 104 to transition between the first and second configurations. Of course, there are many shapes of groove 116 which could be used to achieve this effect, shown in Figure 3C.

A first alternative design for the groove 116 is based on an L-shaped portion which joins a [-shaped portion part way up the vertical of the [-shaped portion to form a groove which is continuous and forked. The vertical part of the L-shaped portion extends to the top of the mounting column 104 and can be used to completely decouple the punch bag 102 from the mounting column 104. This can allow the punch bag 102 to be replaced, e.g. if damaged, or if a user prefers a punch bag 102 having a different size, weight, softness, etc. The upper end of the vertical part of the L-shaped portion may be widened (as shown here) to simplify the process of mounting the punch bag 102 onto the mounting column 104, by allowing the groove 116 to provide a funnelling effect for the pin 114.

In any event, once the punch bag 102 has been mounted onto the mounting column 104 in the manner described above, the pin 114 is able to slide in the groove 116. This initially allows an axial relative motion until the pin 114 reaches the corner in the L-shaped portion.

This ensures that there is a minimum amount of overlap between the hollow rigid tubular member 110 and the mounting column 104 so that the system is stable in the sense that force received by the punch bag 102 is transmitted smoothly to the mounting column 104.

Once the punch bag 102 has slid axially downwards enough that the pin 114 is aligned with the corner of the L-shaped portion, the punch bag 102 may be rotated anticlockwise (the front portion moves to the right) relative to the mounting column 104, and the pin 114 moves horizontally (or circumferentially) along the groove 116 to enter the [-shaped portion. Once the pin 114 is located in the [-shaped portion of the groove 116, the punch bag 102 may be slid axially once more in one of two directions. A first direction is upwards away from the weighted base 106 to rest in the upper horizontal portion of the [-shaped portion of the groove 116. This is the raised, "fight mode" configuration in which the flexible damping connection 108 is able to flex. The second direction is to slide the pin 114 downwards along the vertical portion of the [-shaped portion, and subsequently into the lower horizontal portion of the [-shaped portion of the groove 116. This is the lowered, "transport/storage mode" configuration in which the flexible damping connection 108 is not able to flex.

A second alternative design for the groove has a t-shaped profile, in which the crossbar and foot of the t slope downwards at about 45°. This is a very simple design where a user simply slides the punch bag 102 along the one vertical portion of the groove 116 until the pin 114 hits the bottom, at which point the pin slides to the bottom of the foot of the t where it rests, holding the punch bag 102 in "transport/storage" mode. Alternatively, the user can feel for the crossbar during the axial motion and can divert the pin 114 into this part of the groove. If this happens, the pin 114 slides to the bottom of the crossbar part of the groove 116 and rests stably in "fight mode".

In each case one or both of the positions corresponding to the first and second configurations ("fight mode" and "transport/storage mode" respectively) may have a slight downwardly directed portion, approximately at least as long as the size of the pin 114, to hold the punch bag 102 in place under its own weight in that (or each) configuration. This is shown for the first alternative design of Figure 3C. While this feature is not shown applied to the t-shaped groove 116, due to the crossbar and foot already being downward sloping, this could be applied to the t-shaped groove 116 for additional stability or indeed in cases where the foot and/or crossbar of the t extend horizontally (or circumferentially).

In each of the above examples the punch bag 102 can be manipulated using clockwise and anticlockwise rotations and upward and downward axial movements order to transition between the first and second configurations. It is a simple matter for a user to move the punch bag 102 in such a way that the pin 114 follows the desired portions of the groove 116 to arrive at a particular configuration. Combinations of motions also exist in which the punch bag 102 can be removed from the mounting support 114 entirely. In order to assist users in working out which motions they should make, a schematic of the shape of the groove 116 may be included, for example printed prominently and indelibly somewhere on the system 100, for example on the weighted base 106.

In some cases, there may be multiple pins 114 and multiple grooves 116 (of the same shape and size) angularly spaced around the system 100, so that the punch bag 102 has multiple points of contact, which may help smoothly move the punch bag 102 relative to the mounting column 104 and provide redundancy in case one pin 114 is damaged, etc. Although the above discussion focusses on the pin 114 being associated with the punch bag 102 and the groove 116 being associated with the mounting column 104, it will be appreciated that the groove 116 could be associated with the punch bag 102 and the pin 114 with the mounting column 104 without loss of generality. In particular such an arrangement would work in broadly the same manner as the system 100 described above. In some cases, this may be advantageous since it may be easier to align the pin 114 and groove 116 in this example. This is because it may be easier to identify the opening in the groove 116 into which the pin 114 is inserted by looking at (or feeling) the rim of the hollow rigid tubular member 110 than it is to identify the pin location inside the hollow rigid tubular member 110 (since the pin 114 may be located some way inside the hollow rigid tubular member 110 as shown in Figure 2B).

In yet further cases, the cooperating engagement elements may have the form of a screw thread, which allows a user to rotate the punch bag 102 to screw the punch bag up and down the mounting column 104 as desired to transition between the first and second configurations. In any case, the mounting column 104 and/or the hollow rigid tubular member 110 may include locking means to hold the system 100 in at least one of the two configurations. These may comprise e.g., features which provide stable points in the pin 114 and groove 116 system to maintain the relative axial positions of the punch bag 102 and the mounting column 104, or by providing resistance to rotations beyond a certain point in systems where the cooperating engagement means are screw threads.

In yet further examples, the mounting column 104 may include a mechanism for transitioning the system 100 between the first and second configurations. In other words, the mechanism need not be the result of interactions between the punch bag 102 and the mounting column 104 but may exist entirely on the mounting column 104. For example, the mechanism may be a rigid elongate member slidable with respect to the mounting column 104 to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection 108. The rigid elongate member may be a rigid hollow tube slidable with respect to the mounting column 104 to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection 108. This operates in a similar manner to the hollow rigid tubular member 110 described above in the sense that when the rigid hollow tube is lowered to overlap the flexible damping connection 108, a bracing effect is provided to bypass the flexible damping connection 108 and inhibit rocking motions of the punch bag 102 (i.e., the system is in the second configuration). In this case the first configuration corresponds to the rigid hollow tube being raised, so that the rigid hollow tube does not overlap the flexible damping connection 108.

In further examples, the mechanism on the mounting column 104 may be a rigid rod which slides internally inside the flexible damping connection 108. Once more, the result is that the flexible damping connection 108 can be prevented from flexing, and the system thereby is placed into the second configuration when the rigid rod extends through the flexible damping connection 108. When the rod does not extend through the flexible damping connection 108 the system is in the first configuration. The connectors 118 may be modified to allow the rod to brace the flexible coupling connection 108 internally, for example by providing lumens into which the rod can slide and be held by the connectors.

In any case, it is apparent that the mounting column 104 itself may include the features for transitioning the system 100 between the two configurations. This allows the invention to be embodied in just the mounting column 104, in the sense that a mounting column having a mechanism to short out its flexible damping connection 108 is able to provide the advantages set out above, and can, for example, be retrofit into existing systems with minimal upheaval. Such a mounting column 104 may include a rigid upstanding portion for receiving a punch bag 102; a portion 118 for affixing to a weighted base 106; and a flexible damping connection 108 located between the rigid upstanding portion and the portion 118 for affixing to the weighted base 106. The rigid upstanding portion may have elements configurable to allow or inhibit flexing of the flexible damping connection 108. As noted above, in some cases the elements are engagement elements 114, 116 for cooperating with corresponding engagement elements 116, 114 on the punch bag 102. In other examples, the mounting column 104 may be provided with a tube or rod arrangeable to slide outside of or within (respectively) the flexible damping connection, to selectively brace the flexible damping connection 108 against flexing.

Following this theme, it will be appreciated that the punch bag 102 may also be adapted to provide the advantages set out herein, irrespective of the other components. For example, the punch bag 102 may have: an outer padded layer 112 mounted on a hollow rigid tubular member 110, the hollow rigid tubular member 110 defining a central cavity for receiving an upstanding mounting column 104. Engagement elements may be provided for holding the punch bag 102 in at least two axial locations relative to the upstanding mounting column 104. Optionally the engagement elements 114, 116 are arranged to cooperate with corresponding engagement elements 116, 114 on the upstanding mounting column 104.

In other cases, however, the engagement elements may be arranged to selectively grip a mounting column at desired heights, without the need for the mounting column to be adapted for the specific purposes set out herein. This can occur by providing the punch bag 102 with engagement elements in the form of one or more selective gripping elements, e.g. configured to extend inwardly form the inner surface of the central cavity selectively a relaxed distance and a gripping distance, the relaxed distance being shorter than the gripping distance. In such an example, the gripping distance is selected so that the mounting column 104 is gripped by the engagement elements, thereby preventing relative axial motion between the punch bag 102 and the mounting column 104 and locking the punch bag 102 at a fixed height. By releasing the engagement elements, axial motion is again possible, and the punch bag 102 can be locked at a new height.

In line with the above discussion, this allows the hollow rigid tubular member to overlap the flexible damping coupling 108 and inhibit rocking motions when the punch bag 102 is mounted low enough on the mounting column 104, and to allow these motions when the punch bag 102 is mounted sufficiently far up the mounting column 104. In this way, the punch bag 102 can be used with legacy mounting columns 104 and can therefore be used to retrofit older systems. Note that a user can easily deduce whether the punch bag 102 is mounted at an appropriate height, since it is apparent whether the punch bag 102 can flex relative to the base 106 or not.

For additional security on this front however, and one which is applicable to many of the systems discussed herein, it is clear that the punch bag 102 being located as low as possible will place the system into the second configuration. It may be possible to provide a simple guide to the configuration by measuring the gap between the base 106 and the lower edge of the punch bag 102. For example, a gap of 0 to a first threshold may represent the second configuration ("transport/storage mode"), a gap higher than the first threshold may then represent the first configuration ("fight mode").

In yet further examples, a second threshold, greater than the first threshold may be provided, in which the system is in the second configuration ("transport/storage mode") for gaps between 0 and the first threshold, in the first configuration ("fight mode") for gap sizes between the first threshold and the second threshold, and in an unsafe mode when the gap size exceeds the second threshold, e.g. because such configurations make it likely that the punch bag will fall off entirely during use.

Turning finally to Figures 4A and 4B, a further example is shown in which the advantageous features described herein are provided on the weighted base 106. This illustrates that the mechanism for transitioning between the two configurations need not be the result of interactions between the punch bag 102 and the mounting column 104 but may exist entirely on the weighted base 106. This would operate in much the same manner as discussed above in respect to such mechanisms being provided on the mounting column 104.

In this example, the mechanism for transitioning the system 100 between the two configurations is a rigid hollow tube 124 slidable with respect to the base 106 to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection 108 (not shown). This operates in a similar manner to the rigid hollow tubular member 110 interacting with the mounting column 104 discussed above in the sense that when the rigid hollow tube 124 is raised from the weighted base 106, the overlap of the rigid hollow tube 124 with the flexible damping connection 108 provides a bracing effect to bypass the flexible damping connection 108 and inhibit rocking motions of the punch bag 102 (i.e., the system is in the second configuration when the rigid hollow tube 124 is raised).

In this case the first configuration corresponds to the rigid hollow tube 124 being lowered, e.g., held in a shaped recess in the weighted base 106 so that the rigid hollow tube 124 does not protrude upwardly from the weighted base 106 as shown in Figure 4A. Controls for raising and lowering the rigid hollow tube 124 (and locking it in place if needed) may be supplied on the weighted base 106. In this case the second configuration corresponds to the rigid hollow tube 124 being raised, e.g., held in a position where it extends upwardly from the weighted base 106 so that the rigid hollow tube 124 protrudes upwardly from the weighted base 106, as shown in Figure 4B, to overlap the expected location of the flexible damping connection 108 (not shown).

In other examples, in place of the rigid hollow tube 124 extending around the flexible damping connection 108, a rigid rod may be included inside the connector 118 which protrudes out of the upper surface 126 of the weighted base 106. This would allow the flexible damping column 108 to be braced from within, rather than externally, but otherwise operates in much the same manner.

In other words, rather than relying on the interaction between a mounting column 104 and a punch bag 102, as in the examples above, the portions of the system 100 which allow the transition between the two configurations may be provided entirely on the weighted base 106, thereby allowing users freedom to select from a wide variety of punch bags according to their needs, since the functional aspects of the transitioning process are provided on other parts of the system 100.

The upper surface 126 of the base 106 may be provided with structural ribbing, as shown, in order to improve its strength. This may further be covered with an aesthetic cover to provide a smooth outer surface, which can be seen by comparing Figures 1A to 1C, for example (which have an aesthetic cover) with Figures 4A and 4B (which have no cover). The upper surface 126 may be removeable to access the interior of the weighted base 106 in order to add or remove weight from the base 106, for example.

Claims (25)

1. Claims 1. A freestanding martial arts training system comprising an upstanding punch bag coupled to a weighted base via a flexible damping connection; wherein the system is selectively arrangeable in: a first configuration in which the punch bag is moveable in a rocking motion relative to the base via the flexing of the flexible damping connection; and a second configuration in which rocking motions of the punch bag relative to the base are inhibited by a rigid element which resists bending motions of the flexible damping connection.
2. 2. The martial arts training system of claim 1 further comprising a rigid upstanding mounting column coupled to the base for supporting the punch bag, wherein the flexible mounting connection is located on the mounting column.
3. 3. The martial arts training system of claim 2, wherein the punch bag has an outer padded layer mounted on a hollow rigid tubular member, the hollow rigid tubular member defining a central cavity for receiving the upstanding mounting column.
4. 4. The martial arts training system of claim 3, wherein transitions between the first and second configurations include moving the punch bag axially with respect to the supporting column.
5. 5. The martial arts training system of claim 4, wherein in the second configuration the hollow rigid member overlaps the flexible damping connection; and wherein in the first configuration the hollow rigid member does not overlap the flexible damping connection.
6. 6. The martial arts training system of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the mounting column and the hollow rigid tubular member have cooperating engagement elements for guiding the motion of the punch bag relative to the mounting column to transition between the first and second configurations.
7. 7 The martial arts training system of claim 6, wherein the cooperating engagement elements have the form of a pin on one of the mounting column and the hollow rigid tubular member, the pin being arranged to run in a groove provided on the other one of the mounting column and the hollow rigid tubular member.
8. The martial arts training system of any one of the preceding claims wherein the punch bag is removeable from the mounting column.
9. 9. The martial arts training system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising locking means to hold the system in at least one of the two configurations.
10. 10. The martial arts training system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible damping connection biases the punch bag towards extending perpendicularly from the weighted base.
11. 11. The martial arts training system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible damping connection is formed from rubber or polymers.
12. 12. The martial arts training system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weighted base has a weight of between 50kg and 150kg, preferably between 75kg and 125kg, more preferably between 90kg and 110kg; most preferably of at least about 100kg
13. 13. The martial arts training system of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the weight of the weighted base is variable.
14. 14. The martial arts training system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weighted base includes selectively deployable wheels.
15. 15. The martial arts training system of claim 14, wherein the wheels are located on an upwardly sloping exterior surface of the weighted base.
16. 16. The martial arts training system of claim 1, wherein the weighted base includes a mechanism for transitioning the system between the first and second configurations.
17. 17. The martial arts training system of claim 16, wherein the mechanism is a rigid hollow tube slidable with respect to the base to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection.
18. 18. The martial arts training system of claim 2, wherein the mounting column includes a mechanism for transitioning the system between the first and second configurations.
19. 19. The martial arts training system of claim 18, wherein the mechanism is a rigid elongate member slidable with respect to the mounting column to at least partially overlap the flexible damping connection.
20. 20. A punch bag for use in the system of claim 1, comprising: an outer padded layer mounted on a hollow rigid tubular member, the hollow rigid tubular member defining a central cavity for receiving an upstanding mounting column; and engagement elements for holding the punch bag in at least two axial locations relative to the upstanding mounting column.
21. 21. The punch bag of claim 20, wherein the engagement elements are arranged to cooperate with corresponding engagement elements on the upstanding mounting column.
22. 22. A mounting column for a punch bag, the mounting column being arranged for use in the system of claim 1 and comprising: a rigid upstanding portion for receiving a punch bag; a portion for affixing to a weighted base; and a flexible damping connection located between the rigid upstanding portion and the portion for affixing to the weighted base; wherein the rigid upstanding portion has elements configurable to allow or inhibit flexing of the flexible damping connection.
23. 23. The mounting column of claim 22, wherein the elements are engagement elements for cooperating with corresponding engagement elements on the punch bag.
24. 24. A weighted base for use in the system of claim 1, comprising: a base body having a lower surface for resting on the ground; a portion for affixing a mounting column located on an upper surface, opposite the lower surface; selectively deployable wheels on the base body; and a rigid elongate member located on the upper surface adjacent to the portion for affixing the mounting column, the rigid elongate member being slidable with respect to the base to transition the system between the first and second configurations when a mounting column is affixed to the base.
25. 25. The weighted base of claim 24, wherein the rigid elongate member is a hollow tube or a rod.