WO2012123427A1

WO2012123427A1 - Training apparatus with elongate collision member

Info

Publication number: WO2012123427A1
Application number: PCT/EP2012/054300
Authority: WO
Inventors: Richard John Gray
Original assignee: Richard John Gray
Priority date: 2011-03-15
Filing date: 2012-03-12
Publication date: 2012-09-20
Also published as: GB2502231B; GB201315679D0; GB2502231A; GB201104374D0

Abstract

A training apparatus (1) having an elongate collision member (9) mounted on a base member (3) to define an open inclined surface (11) for a user to hit or collide with enables improved technique for collision or impact in certain contact sports, especially rugby.

Description

TRAINING APPARATUS WITH ELONGATE COLLISION MEMBER

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 rugby, and to methods of training for contact sports.

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. In rugby, these include line-outs, scrums, rucks and mauls and defensive and attacking plays. To assist training in some plays, such as scrums, apparatus has been developed to improve strength and technique in that play. However, there has been little progress in developing apparatus specifically to enhance technique in rucks and mauls, which are increasingly evident in the modern game of rugby.

Over time, many contact sports, such as the game of Rugby Union, are continually being developed to create a faster more dynamic form by lawmakers, coaches and players. The object of these developments is to have a game with fewer prolonged stoppages thus becoming more exciting for both the player and the spectator. The future game will continue to become faster both in player decision making and action. Players will have to become more technically proficient in all skills relating to the game and must be specifically conditioned to play in this ever changing, challenging and demanding contact sport environment.

An area of contact sports, such as Rugby Union, which has become a major focal point within the evolving game is the "collision". With the introduction of new laws relating to the collision area in Rugby Union, there are now significantly more rucks and phases resulting in players having to be more dynamic and accurate within this area of play as well as physically cope with the demands of this type of game. Statistics from the 2010 Tri-Nations competition showed that there were approximately 180 rucks per game. A ruck is a phase of play where one or more players from each team, who must remain on their feet, are in physical contact close around the ball on the ground. When a tackled player goes to ground (known as the breakdown), they must release the ball immediately. As soon as that happens, the opposition will want to get their hands on the ball, and the team in possession will aim to retain it. Each side must try to drive over the ball to make it available to their team-mates or seal the ball off. The tackier' s team-mates can attempt to handle or pick up the ball before the ruck has formed, or they will attempt to slow down the release of the ball once the ruck has formed. Team-mates of the tackled player must attempt to secure the ball and speed up its release. All players must join the ruck from behind the 'hindmost' foot of the last player, known as the 'gate'. They must bind with one arm around a team-mate at the back of the ruck and may not join from the sides. If the ball fails to come out of a ruck, the referee will award a scrum to the team that he considers to have the greater forward momentum in the ruck.

The collision area, such as in the tackle or ruck, is still one where most penalties occur (e.g. players off their feet especially when fatigued, over developed players that are not in control of their body type and poor technique).

Defences have become more organised and the individual tackling techniques and conditioning of the players within the defensive system have made a major improvement within this area of the game which is now far more structured, although the challenge for coaches and players is now to break these systems down with fluid perpetual attacking play.

Although major emphasis is placed on the collision area being a direct result of quality defences, tackier etc., it also falls into an important attacking priority for the team (rucks, phase play). If you want to play a fast dynamic game, your players must be able to clear the collision area quickly and effectively with minimum playing numbers and be able to free up the ball either by hand to hand or clearance thus allowing the game to continue at a tempo that can quickly change the area of attack for your team. Coaching the collision area has taken many different forms over the past years from "live play" to the use of shields, tackle bags and suits and all have merit but, what has been missing is a training aid that can bring about the desired technical training effects of the collision looking specifically at improving areas that are a weakness within the game, including:

• Consistent body height in the collision (over the course of the game)

• Appropriate leg drive & leg speed

• Staying on your feet

• Remaining strong and in the correct shape within collision

• Making strong hand-grip placement around, under and within the collision area

• Appropriate and co-ordinated head movement and positioning during

collision

• Individual contact technique

• Two player contact technique

• Collision and clearance technique

Several attempts have been made to develop apparatus for training in contact sports and in particular plays in, for example, rugby, such as scrum sleds or ruck machines. Examples include the Powa Scrum™ Sled (http://www.powa- rugby . co . nz/powa- scrum- sled-ruck-machine-p-4. html) from Powa Products International, which comprises a series of upright pads mounted on a wheeled sled and the Rhino Ruck Net™ (http://www.rhinorugby.com/product/rhino_ruck_net), which comprises a raised netting supported by a series of steel poles. The netting is intended to be set at such a height that the player must maintain a certain body height in order to be able to enter the ruck area. The Predator! Ruckmaster™ sled, which is shown at www.predator.uk.com/ruckmaster has four upright pads that are moveable in the vertical and horizontal direction and is claimed to improve all aspects of rucking technique. However, whilst this, as with the other mentioned devices, can be used for practising certain techniques, it does not adequately mimic a real in-game collision or collision event nor does it monitor or develop the key strengths and techniques required for the collision and for rucking, in particular, and does not adequately address the above weaknesses. WO-A-2009/047527 describes a freestanding shaped pad element designed to mimic a player covering the ball with their body whilst on hands and feet, which can be used for practicing methods of joining a ruck and challenging a player for the ball. The device is provided with handles for a coach to hold while training a player. This device does not have substantial weight and doesn't adequately allow movement and strength approaching and through a collision to be developed. There is no disclosure of a suitably configured device mounted on a base to enable the weaknesses identified to be effectively addressed.

The present inventor has devised an apparatus that enables the aforementioned weaknesses in technique in the collision area to be addressed.

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 for rucks in rugby and scrimmage in American Football.

It is an object of this invention to provide a sports training apparatus that can be used in developing technique in the collision area of contact sports 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 of ruck and phase play aspects of Rugby Union.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a training apparatus comprising an elongate collision member mounted on a base member, the collision member having a collision surface for a user to hit, the collision surface defining an open inclined surface. ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

The training apparatus of the present invention provides a means by which improved technique for collisions, rucks and ruck-like plays in sports such as rugby can be developed. By providing a base-mounted collision member angled away from the collision approach, which mimics in a controlled environment a common configuration of a collision, e.g. in a ruck, in live play, players can train on the most effective collision techniques, including enhancing power and strength, direction of approach, maintaining power at low height against an inclined away surface. The training apparatus also enables enhancements to be added such as directional movement of the collision member responsive to quality of the collision as well as monitoring of effectiveness and improvement over time of skills by measuring and recording collision technique. Thereby, improvements in player technique can be achieved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a 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 embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 1 ;

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

Figure 5 is a schematic of an adjustment means useable in the training apparatus depicted in Figure 1; and

Figures 6a and 6b are schematic illustrations in side aspect and plan view respectively of another embodiment of the present invention.

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 Rugby Union, Rugby League and American Football. It is particularly useful for use in developing technique where effectiveness of collision and speed of clearance is an important element, such as in Rugby Union.

The training apparatus in accordance with the invention comprises an elongate collision member mounted on a base member, the collision member having a collision surface for a user to hit, the collision surface defining an open inclined surface. By an open inclined surface, it is meant that, in use, 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 (as opposed to closed, which could be considered as facing down to some degree).

Preferably the collision member is moveable in a direction and/or by an amount responsive to one or more of the angle, height position, strength/power and technique of a collision by a user on the collision member. By enabling the collision member to move in response to certain features of a collision, the effect of 'good' and 'bad' technique may be appreciated by the player and the apparatus can be used to improve technique. For example, the apparatus may be configured or 'tuned' such that a sweet spot for collision is provided on the collision surface whereby direct, low, accurate and powerful collision with the sweet spot of the collision member maximizes, for example, longitudinal movement (or simulated longitudinal movement), where longitudinal movement is movement along a direction in the same plane as a median line on the collision surface. The median line on the collision surface is an imaginary line that cuts the sweet spot and bisects the collision surface (e.g. on a symmetrical collision surface). Similarly, where a 'bad' collision occurs, e.g. approach from the side, strength not maintained, or 'slip-up' the pad, longitudinal movement may be reduced and the apparatus configured to allow non-longitudinal movement (or simulated non-longitudinal movement), such as transverse movement, of the member may be effected. The apparatus may be configured (or adjusted) according to a required 'sensitivity' whereby off-centre or off-sweet spot movements are accentuated to assist in training of good technique. The movement of the collision member responsive to a collision may be achieved by any suitable arrangement, two embodiments of which are described below in which the collision member forms part of a moveable apparatus (a field training apparatus) in one embodiment and an embodiment in which the collision member is moveably mounted relative the base member {simulated movement embodiment for gym training).

Preferably, the apparatus is configured for immediate, repeat or successive collisions by the user or users. Accordingly, training techniques in collision and clearance techniques may be practiced and successive collisions effected by team members can be practiced. Further, the training may be directed to maintaining technique in a longer session and in successive collisions. Such a configuration is conceived as being one in which there is no 're-setting' or 'repositioning' of the apparatus between collisions, either because the apparatus is not itself affected by the collision (e.g. because the only response is a change in position of the apparatus) or because it returns to its original form rapidly and automatically. This is preferably achieved by fixedly mounting the collision member upon a base member which is of sufficient rigidity to withstand the collision or resiliently mounting the collision member upon a base member which is fixedly mounted to a floor or wall (or sufficiently weighty to remain in position on collision).

By providing the collision surface of the collision member at an open inclined angle, a player approaching a collision with the collision surface is forced up and over their initial hit. The player must therefore work on staying in the contact point and not "slipping up" requiring a strong core and good technique. Players may work on leg drive and leg speed within the collision since the collision surface is at an angle to allow for clear knee lift and leg drive and therefore players can vary their collision to an impact through the apparatus or to produce an impact resulting in a strong unmovable finishing position. The apparatus having an inclined away collision surface of a collision member mounted on a base member is effective in enabling various training exercises aimed at developing the correct approach to height and strength of the collision at and through the point of impact. Preferably, the training apparatus is provided with a collision surface openly inclined at an angle of from at least 10° and preferably at most 60° from the vertical, preferably from 20° to 50° from the vertical (which equates with an acute angle of 40° to 70° from the playing or training surface), more preferably 30° to 50°, still more preferably 35° to 45° and most preferably about 40° from the vertical (equating with an angle of about 50° from the playing or training surface). Optionally, the angle of the collision surface to the vertical may be adjustable or, preferably, it may be fixed.

Preferably, the collision member is arranged such that the collision member extends by an amount from 50 to 150 cm upwards from the base member (e.g. the top of the collision member is arranged to be 50 to 150 cm from the base member and the playing or training surface). Optionally, the collision member may be configured to allow knee lift and leg drive in use (e.g. the collision member may not extend right down to the level of the playing surface, but is preferably within 20 cm thereof). More preferably, the collision member extends upwards 55 to 90 cm from the base, still more preferably 60 to 80 cm from the base and most preferably about 65 cm from the base. By providing the collision member at a limited upward extent or height, the player is forced to enter the collision low and further, when a player slips up the collision surface momentum is lost.

Preferably, the collision surface is curved. Preferably, the collision surface is curved about a primary axis of the elongate collision member (e.g. the primary axis being parallel with or at least in the same plane as the median line of the collision surface and extending substantially in the elongate direction). By providing curvature about a primary axis of the collision member, off-centre collisions may result in less forward (or longitudinal) movement of the collision member and more non-longitudinal movement. The accuracy of collision direction or collision angle required may be increased (i.e. the apparatus made more sensitive to collision angle) by increasing the curvature (i.e. decreasing the radius of curvature) of the collision surface. It is envisaged that advanced players may benefit from a more-sensitive apparatus to enable them to hone their technique, whilst less experienced players may require some longitudinal movement response to improvements in technique. Optionally, the curvature of the collision surface about a primary axis may be adjustable (e.g. continuously or in 5 cm steps from 5 cm to 50 cm) to be able to vary the sensitivity of the apparatus to collision angle, but is preferably fixed. Preferably, the curvature about a primary axis of the collision member is in the range 5 cm to 50 cm, preferably 10 cm to 30 cm, more preferably 15 cm to 25 cm, still more preferably 20 cm to 25 cm and most preferably about 22.5 cm. Preferably, the collision surface is provided at a size to provide an effective target for a single player but sufficient to allow plays to be practiced for two or more players, e.g. from a width of 15 cm to 100 cm, preferably 25 cm to 60 cm, still more preferably 35 cm to 50 cm and most preferably about 45 cm.

Optionally, the collision surface is curved along the median line whereby the angle of inclination of the collision surface varies along its length. In this arrangement, the collision surface should curve away from the vertical as it extends upwards from the base member or, optionally, from an optimal impact zone or sweetspot, whereby the effectiveness of the collision diminishes increasingly the further from the optimal impact zone a collision occurs. In this situation, the primary angle of inclination of the collision surface to the vertical is taken to be the angle of the surface at the optimal impact zone (or sweet spot) to the vertical. The optimal impact zone or sweet spot may preferably be taken for this purpose to be centred on the median line of the collision member and about 50 cm above the playing surface. By decreasing the radius of curvature along the median line, the apparatus is made increasingly sensitive to the height of the collision and maintenance of the height, shape and strength of player through the collision. Thus, decreasing the radius of curvature may allow the sensitivity of the apparatus to be tuned to a particular player's experience and need for training focus. Optionally, the median line is straight from the base (or optionally curves from a less open or a closed inclination) to the optimal impact zone, which has an angle to the vertical as defined above, above which the median line may curve away from the vertical, e.g. with a radius of curvature of 20 cm to 100 cm, optionally 30 cm to 50 cm. Optionally, the radius of curvature of the median line (e.g. above the optimal impact zone) is adjustable, but is preferably fixed and more preferably is fixed at 0° (i.e. no curve).

Preferably, the collision member is a hemi-cylindrical shape.

Optionally the collision surface is an irregular surface which more closely represents the irregular collision surface in the game.

In a preferred 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. Preferably, grip members are provided at a plurality of positions about the periphery of the collision surface. In one preferred 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 are preferably selected from an upper grip member (along 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. Preferably the grip bar is mounted on the base member and/or the collision member. Typically, other than the lower grip member, the grip members are provided on a frame mounted adjacently behind the collision member with the grip members protruding about the periphery of the collision surface. 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.

Preferably the grip members are configured to allow relative movement of the grip member, preferably rotation, to enable a player to work on strong hand placement while keeping correct body position throughout the collision event and the use of the apparatus. Gripping of moveable (e.g. rotatable) grip members mimic the gripping of team mates or opponents during live play and assist a player in staying strong through a collision. In one preferred embodiment, the relative movement of the grip members is provided by providing on one or a plurality of grip bars a plurality of grip pads fitted such as to allow movement and rotation of the pads about the grip bar(s).

Preferably, the grip members are positioned about the periphery of the collision member (and disposed adjacently behind the collision member) in a configuration that trains the user to adopt a gripping technique that maximizes the player's strength and technique through the collision, e.g. with an ideal grip configuration for the player and a good arm shape. This is preferably achieved by arranging the grip members (e.g. upper grip member, upper transverse grip member, lower transverse grip member and optionally lower grip member) to be positioned for gripping at locations disposed a distance outward (e.g. laterally or vertically as the case may be) from the collision member of from 100 to 300 cm, preferably 200 to 250 cm and more preferably about 225 cm. Preferably, lateral grip members (i.e. those positioned to the sides of the collision member, e.g. the upper transverse grip member and lower transverse grip member) are separated by a distance of from 750 cm to 1100 cm, more preferably 800 cm to 1000 cm, still more preferably 850 cm to 950 cm and most preferably about 875 cm to 925 cm, e.g. about 900 cm.

Preferably, the grip members or grip bar may be pivotally mounted with respect to the base member and or collision member or otherwise is adjustable so that the position of the grip members or grip bar with respect to the collision surface may be adjusted (whereby the grip bar may be varied in its angle of inclination with respect to the collision surface). For example, the grip members may be adjusted to a deeper position (i.e. further behind the collision member) for use by players with longer arms or for exercises involving collisions from the side or using two or more players (whereby the grip members need to be moved out of the way to prevent injury or discomfort in such multi-player exercises). Likewise, the grip members may be adjusted to a shallower position for players with shorter arms, e.g. junior players, or for single player training exercises. Preferably, the grip members are provided by the inverted U-shaped grip bar, which is pivotally mounted to the base member adjacent or through the collision member bottom and its angular position secured by an adjustment means mounted to the top of the grip element or preferably to a cross-member formed at intermediate height thereon.

In one embodiment, the adjustment means comprises a screwthread arm mounted on the collision member (e.g. pivotally mounted by ball and socket connector or by mounting on a cross-member which is pivotally mounted on the collision member) and passing through an aperture associated with a crossbar of the grip bar (e.g. a gripper tube rotatably mounted on the crossbar). The position along the screwthread arm that is intersected by the crossbar is preferably adjusted using a threaded nut, and preferably comprises two butterfly nuts on the threaded arm either side of a tube (preferably an unthreaded tube) that forms the aperture associated with the crossbar. Preferably, the adjustment means may be operated to adjust the angle of a grip bar to a greater angle to the vertical by unwinding the outer butterfly nut, sliding the unthreaded tube to abut the outer butterfly nut and unwinding the inner butterfly nut to abut the unthreaded tube. By this means the grip bar may be rapidly adjusted yet securely held whereby it doesn't rattle, or shake from its position during use.

An adjustment means for adjusting and securing an arrangement of frame members (e.g. a frame member upon which a collision member is mounted and a frame member comprising a grip bar or plurality of grip members) comprising a first frame member, defining a first plane, pivotally mounted about a pivot to a second frame member, defining a second plane, which first and second frame members are moveable about the pivot such that the angle between the first and second planes may be adjusted is provided by a further aspect of the invention in which the adjustment means comprises a screwthread arm pivotally mounted to the first frame member, a tubular member pivotally mounted to the second frame member and configured to receive and slide along the screwthread arm and pivot about an axis substantially perpendicular to the screwthread arm and provided on the screwthread arm each side of the tubular member a threaded nut (preferably a butterfly nut) configured for being thread along the screwthread nut. The angle of one frame member to the other may be adjusted by threading a first threaded nut away from the tubular member provided in a first position, sliding the tubular member along the screwthread arm to abut the first threaded nut in a second position and threading a second threaded nut to abut the tubular member thus securing it in its second position.

As mentioned above, the apparatus is preferably configured such that the collision member is moveable responsive to the collision features (e.g. to one or more of direction or angle, height position, strength/power and technique of a collision by a player). Two general embodiments of this are discussed in more detail below. In a first embodiment, a field training embodiment, the apparatus as a whole is moveable whereby at least a portion (and preferably all) the

responsiveness of the collision member is achieved by movement of the entire apparatus. In a second embodiment, a gym training embodiment, the movement responsive to collision features is simulated movement achieved by a collision member that is moveably mounted to a base member and is moveable relative the base member, which itself is typically fixed in position.

In the first embodiment, which is particularly useful for field training, the base member is an elongate member having a first proximal portion, above at least a portion of which the collision member is disposed, and a second distal portion and which apparatus is adapted such that the entire apparatus is moveable responsive to user collisions on the collision surface. The collision member may optionally be moveable on the base member also, e.g. by mounting the collision member on a short track along which it may move resiliently from its resting point. However, it is preferable that in this embodiment the collision member is directly and fixedly mounted. Typically, the collision member is directly and fixedly mounted to the proximal portion, but is optionally directly and fixedly mounted to the distal portion or both the proximal and distal portions for extra stability. In any case, it is preferred that the collision member is disposed above at least a portion of the proximal portion of the elongate base member and more preferably extends from a position at or about the proximal end or in front of the proximal end of the elongate base member. The collision member may also be adjustable in angle on the base member, but is preferably secured at a fixed angle. In field training, the base member being 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 in a plumb line with the median line is achieved, the collision member (and the base member to which it is fixedly mounted) may move a corresponding amount in a collision direction (which, if in the same plane as the median line, is defined as the longitudinal direction). 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.

Preferably, the elongate base member is longitudinally tapered whereby the proximal portion is relatively broad and the distal portion is relatively narrow. By providing this longitudinally tapered or 'arrowhead' design, movement in a longitudinal direction may be maximized by 'good' and strong contact with the collision surface. 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. If a player makes contact with the collision member from the side, the apparatus may slide away from the player and lessen the effect of the collision and ongoing collision exercise. Thereby, the apparatus encourages and trains the player to make contact with the collision surface at an optimal collision zone from the hindmost foot to hit the collision surface square on. Further, a longitudinally tapered base member represents the shape of a collision area of a ruck in Rugby Union, thereby further equating the experience and technique of using the apparatus of the invention with those required for improved technique in the actual game.

The base element may be of any suitable length and angle of taper. The base element optionally may taper out to a broader distal portion for use in beginners' training whereby any non-longitudinal movement of the base element is reduced even by collisions from the side (i.e. the apparatus is de-sensitised).

Preferably, however, the base element tapers in for at least a portion of its length from the proximal portion to the distal portion, preferably a substantial portion of its length (e.g. at least two thirds, more preferably at least three quarters) and most preferably substantially its entire length. The angle of taper may be selected to be any suitable angle, e.g. from 30° to 120° (to include tapering out) preferably to 90° (no taper), more preferably from 45° to 90° (for example, in the range 45° to 60° for a very responsive apparatus that requires very good technique to prevent or minimise non-longitudinal movement of the apparatus, suitable for advanced users or where the angle of approach is a focal point of the training), preferably in the range 60° or 75° to 80° or 85° and most preferably in the range 80° to 85°.

Optionally, the base member may be configured to allow adjustment of the angle of taper according to a particular requirement. In embodiments where the base member is not fixed, it is preferred that it is configured with a taper angle of 80° to 85°.

The length of the base member, which may not be entirely independent of the taper angle, may be any suitable length which gives structural integrity to the apparatus and allows it to remain upright during use. Preferably, the base member is from 1 metre to 4 metres long, preferably 1.5 to 3 metres, and more preferably from 1.75 metres to 2.25 metres in length. The base member may be selected to be any suitable width, typically from 50 to 200 cm at its widest point (typically the proximal end), preferably 75 to 150 cm and more preferably from 80 to 100 cm (e.g. for an apparatus having a single collision member).

Preferably, the base member comprises an elongate frame having mounted therebelow 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 movement along the training surface.

One or more weights, e.g. weight plate fittings, water bladders or equivalent, may be provided on the base member, e.g. at the proximal portion or distributed along the length, 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.

As mentioned above, the nature and configuration of the contact surface of the base member, e.g. the contact surface of the base panel member, 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). Optionally, the contact surface 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° to 90°. 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.

Preferably, fins may be provided in the range 0° to 90°, more preferably from 30° to 60°, e.g. about 45° in either orientation, but typically symmetrically along the longitudinal axis. Optionally, the protrusions or fins may be adjustable or deployable (e.g. the number or orientation of fins may varied to vary the sensitivity of response of the apparatus and the depth may be adjusted to account for the nature of the surface and need for resistance). In one embodiment, the contact surface of the base panel member is provided with a contoured checquered surface in order to impart resistance to movement on, for example, a grass surface. Preferably, a check of 4 to 8 mm (e.g. 6mm) is provided which is 3 to 6 mm (e.g. 4.5 mm) on flat.

Preferably, the distal end of the base member is provided with a raised lip whereby during a training exercise, players may lift the apparatus using a gripping member and the lip allows longitudinal movement and prevents the distal end from digging in and resisting forward movement.

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) 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).

In a most preferred embodiment of this first, field training, embodiment of the apparatus of the invention, the apparatus comprises the elongate collision member mounted (e.g. at an angle of the collision surface from the vertical of from 35° to 45°) on the base member (e.g. a longitudinally tapered elongate base member) and a plurality of grip members protruding about the periphery of the collision member (e.g. by way of an inverted U-shaped grip bar provided with grip pads). In the second embodiment, which is particularly useful as an apparatus adapted for gym training or indoor training, the apparatus is configured such that the collision member is moveable relative the base member, which base member is preferably fixed in position, e.g. by virtue of its weight or preferably by a fixing to a wall or floor. Preferably, the collision member is mounted for resilient movement relative the base member, whereby the movement responsive to collision features is simulated by the resilient movement. For example, the resilient movement may be provided by hydraulics, e.g. an hydraulic arm upon which the collision member is mounted, or simply by counterbalanced weights. The one or more grip members (e.g. the grip bar) is preferably also configured for resilient movement relative the base member, by the same or different means (e.g. hydraulic means) as the collision member.

Preferably, the collision member is resiliently mounted on the base member such as to provide for resilient movement in a plurality of directions relative the base member.

In one embodiment, the collision member is provided on a vertically hinged bracket that is mounted on a support, wherein the support (e.g. an hydraulic arm) enables the resilient movement in a longitudinal direction, being a direction substantially planar to the median line of the elongate collision member and wherein the hinged bracket is configured to allow resilient pivoting of the collision member about the hinged bracket in an intermediately transverse direction.

Thereby, the features of the collision may cause a response that simulates longitudinal movement (e.g. resilient movement against an hydraulic arm) or may cause a response that simulates a non-longitudinal movement (e.g. resilient pivoting of the collision member in the hinged bracket). The degree of resistance to longitudinal and/or non-longitudinal movement may be varied or tuned according to the sensitivity required, the level of the player and the technique being practiced.

Optionally, a contoured mat may be provided extending outward from the apparatus for the player or user to drive off and gain traction from, which mat is preferably attached to the apparatus.

The collision member useable in any of the embodiments may be formed of any suitable material that is suitable for receiving collisions. Typically, the collision member is formed of a rigid frame (which provides the back of the member) and 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 stuffed 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 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.

Optionally, the collision member may be provided on its collision surface with a visual guide to its optimal collision zone (or sweet spot) to enhance training.

The apparatus in any of the embodiments described herein may be provided with a plurality of collision members mounted on a single base member, preferably arranged side-by-side, but is preferably provided with one collision member or with two collision members side by side. Where two or more collision members are provided, grip members may be provided between collision members. Optionally, common lateral grip members are provided between the collision members.

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 the 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 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, which grip members were used, 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

• The grip strength of the player taken from the grip member sensors

analysing initial power of grip and whether the player maintains grip strength or allows it to fall away dramatically when grip is changed

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 surface and, optionally, the grip members. Optionally, a multi-cell sensor element may be provided that covers a substantial portion and preferably the entire collision surface (and optionally the surface of the grip members) may be used and pressure data transmitted to a receiving device (e.g. a microprocessor) typically by wireless communication, where the data 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.

There is thus provided as a further aspect of the invention a training apparatus comprising one or a plurality of collision members mounted on a base member, the collision member having a collision surface for a user to collide with, characterized in that the collision surface is configured with one or a plurality of sensors for determining the location, degree and extent of the collision with the collision surface. The location is preferably identified as one or a plurality of portions of the collision surface. By the degree of collision it is meant the strength of collision and by extent of collision it is meant duration (or plot of degree of collision over time). Preferably, the apparatus is provided with one or a plurality of grip members, such as a grip bar (e.g. of inverted U-shape configuration) provided with movable pads, which plurality of grip members is provided with sensors for determining the location, degree and extent of the collision with or grip on the grip members. Optionally, the base is provided with one or more sensors to determine the amount and direction of longitudinal and non-longitudinal movement of the apparatus during a collision event (from which may be produced, e.g., a plot of position against time). Preferably, the apparatus has one or more further features as hereinbefore described.

In a further aspect, there is provided a program for a computer configured to receive data from such sensors and according to a pre-determined format, provide an output (e.g. as a digital display). Such data may be further utilized to monitor the improvement of a player over time and also the performance of a coach over time.

In one embodiment in which the apparatus is adapted for gym use, the apparatus may be provided with an associated display (and optional input device) for communicating to the user details about the performance and recommendations as to exercises that may improve performance.

In a still further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of training a person in improved collision technique, the method comprising: providing a training apparatus comprising one or a plurality of collision members mounted on a base member and one or a plurality of grip members associated with the collision member(s), the collision member having a collision surface for a user to collide with, which collision surface and/or grip members are configured with one or a plurality of sensors appropriately calibrated for determining the location, degree and extent of the collision with the collision surface and/or grip members; providing a microprocessor in signal communication (e.g. by wireless

communication) with the plurality of sensors and programmed to interpret and/or analyse the sensor data; conducting one or a series of collision events in which the person follows a training instruction to collide with a collision member; analyzing the data associated with the one or series of collision events generated by the sensors and communicated to the microprocessor; determining weaknesses in the player technique or conditioning level by comparison of sets of the data with predetermined (or calibrated) sets of target data associated with one or more player techniques or conditioning levels; and producing a technique or conditioning training schedule comprising training elements selected from a pre-determined set of training elements designed to improve certain weaknesses in technique or conditioning level. The person may then undertake training according to the training schedule and then may repeat the method above. Thus a new set of collision event data may be generated which may be compared with existing data sets, such as pre-determined target data (to determine perceived weaknesses), the person's previous data (to determine improvement, over time and of the perceived weaknesses as a result of the targeted training) and team data. The effectiveness of training method (or technique or conditioning schedules) and/or the effectiveness of the conditioning coach may be assessed by performance measurement. Further, the use of person data in the context of team data may be utilized to plan game play utilizing certain player strengths (e.g. the data may indicate that certain persons in a team are better at certain parts of the collision event, such as the initial hit, whilst other persons are better at other parts of collision, such as a post-hit surge), which is thus a further method of the invention.

Sets of technique and performance data for persons and teams may be obtained and categorized according to a training exercise, which may be, for example, a single person collision, a collision initiated from a starting point behind the apparatus, a collision initiated by running from an angle, a collision having a step-over in approach and multiple person collision exercises. These datasets, which are preferably tagged with surface condition data (e.g. if the ground is in a similar condition) may be used to assess improvement in individual and team technique, performance and conditioning, to assess effectiveness of training or conditioning (and training and conditioning coaches) and to plan most

advantageous game play for a team. The invention will now be described in more detail, without limitation, with reference to the accompanying Figures.

In Figure 1, a training apparatus 1 is illustrated in side view according to one embodiment of the invention having an elongate base member 3 with a distal portion 5 and a proximal portion 7 upon which is mounted a collision member 9 which has a hemi-cylindrical collision surface 11. The collision surface 11 is the outer surface of a hemi-cylindrical pad element 13 of, for example, polyurethane foam with a leather or synthetic leather jacket. The pad element 13 is secured to a rigid (collision member) frame 15 of the collision member 9, which is fixedly mounted at its foot 17 to the base member 3 and held in position by a rigid support element 19 fixedly mounted between the head 21 of frame 15 and the distal portion 5 of the base member 3. The collision surface 11, as can be seen from Figure 1 is angled in an open inclined configuration inclined away from the

'training zone' being the area where collision with the apparatus is initiated. In this case, the median line 23 of the collision surface 11 is inclined at 40° from vertical and the rigid frame 15 (which in this example is parallel with the median line 23 of the collision surface 11) is mounted at 50° to the (horizontal) base member 3 (see Figures 1 and 2).

The base member 3 is formed of a base frame 25 which provides the rigidity and form and a base plate 27 mounted on the underside of the base frame 25 which forms the contact surface with the training surface (not shown, e.g. turf, clay or Astroturf). By utilising a base plate 27 as a contact surface, the apparatus can slide on the training surface when the collision surface 11 is hit by a user.

Weights (e.g. weight plates 28) provided on the base member 3, e.g. on a stacking pin 26, can be used to control the strength of hit required to move the apparatus a certain distance on the surface. As can be seen from Figure 2, the base member is longitudinally tapered from the proximal portion 7 to the distal portion 5. This 'arrow head' configuration allows the apparatus to be responsive to the direction of hit on the collision surface 11. A plum hit on the median line 23 of the collision surface 11 will maximise the movement of the apparatus in a longitudinal direction, whilst if hit off-centre, a portion of the power will be converted to lateral motion and turning of the apparatus instead of longitudinal motion.

Pivotally mounted on the base frame 25, at the proximal portion 7 of the base member 3 adjacent the rigid collision member frame 15, is a grip bar 29. The grip bar 29 extends about the periphery of sides 31 and head 21 of the collision member 9 and provides a plurality of grip members 33 about the periphery (see Figures 3 and 4), which may be termed upper lateral grip members 35, lower lateral grip members 37 and upper grip member 39. Intermediate transverse grip members 41 (or punch grip cross-members) are provided on a cross bar 43. Grip pads 45 may be provided on the multiple grip members 33, which grip pads 45 are capable of rotating about the grip members 33.

The angle (a) of the grip bar 29, which typically forms an inverted

U-shape, to the median line 23 of collision surface 11 may be adjusted by pivoting the grip bar 29 about the pivot mount (not shown) on the base member 3. Thereby the distance of the (at least the upper and intermediate) grip members 33 from the collision surface 11 may be varied and adjusted (e.g. to allow for use of the apparatus by players of varying height / arm length and/or different training exercises, such as multi-player exercises).

The angle (a) may be varied and the position of the grip bar 21 secured using adjustment means 47, as illustrated in more detail in Figure 5. In the embodiment illustrated, adjustment means 47 comprises a screwthread arm 49 mounted on the rigid collision member frame 15 (preferably pivotally mounted, e.g. by ball and socket connector, or in this case by mounting to a cross-member 50 of the collision member frame 15 that is itself pivotally mounted on the collision member frame 15) and passing through an aperture formed in association with crossbar 43 of the grip bar 29, which aperture is in the form preferably of a tubular member 55 pivotally mounted onto the crossbar 43 and which tubular member 55 which is configured to be slid along the screwthread arm 49. The position along the screwthread arm 49 that is intersected by the crossbar 43 is adjusted using a first threaded butterfly nut 51 and a second threaded butterfly nut 53 (either side of the crossbar 43) abutting the tubular member 55. Thereby, the angle (a) of the grip bar 29 may be adjusted by threading away from the tubular member 55 a first or second butterfly nut 51,53, sliding the tubular member 55 along the screwthread arm 49 to abut the first or second butterfly nut 51,53, then threading the other butterfly nut 51,53 to abut the tubular member 55 and secure the new angle of the grip bar 29.

The apparatus is further provided with a lower grip member 57 in the form of an arc protruding from beneath the collision surface 11 at an angle to the horizontal to enable the user to grip around it. This allows one or two member exercises to use the lower grip member and optionally lift the apparatus 1. It may then be pushed along longitudinally, for which purpose front lip 59 raised at the end of the distal portion 5 of the apparatus 1 is provided in order to prevent the distal end from resisting movement. The apparatus specifically described may be fabricated from stainless steel, preferably hollow, square, oblong or circular cross-section 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 PVC-coated woven fabric, for the pad jacket).

In an embodiment as illustrated in Figures 1 to 5, the apparatus may have one, more or all of the following preferred dimensions: where the collision member 9 has a length (A) of 85 cm, a depth or radius (B) of 28 cm, a width (C) of 45 cm and a rigid (collision member) frame with a width (D) of 30 cm; the rigid support element 19 has a length (E) of 1.35 m; the base frame 25 has a tapered length (F) of 1.82 m; the proximal and distal ends of the base frame 25 have respective widths (G) and (C) of 90 cm and 45 cm; the grip bar 29 has a height (H) of 1.06 m and a width (G) of 90 cm; and the stacking pin 26 has a height (J) of 25 cm. The tubular member 55 of the adjustment means 47 may have a length (K) of 5 cm, whilst the butterfly nuts 51, 53, may have a width (L) of 13 cm.

In Figures 6a and 6b, a training apparatus 61 is shown according to an embodiment of the invention, which is configured for gym use as opposed to field use, in which a collision member 63 having a collision surface 65 is pivotally mounted at its foot 67, via a rigid (collision member) frame 68, to a base member 69, which is secured to the wall or floor. A grip bar 71 is disposed adjacently behind the collision member 63 and is also pivotally mounted to the base member 69. The collision member 63 is supported by first and second resiliently compressible hydraulic arms 73,75 which is secured to the floor/wall or base member 69 and at the other end to the rigid (collision member) frame 68. The grip bar 71 is supported by resiliently compressible hydraulic arm 77, which is secured to the floor/wall or base member 69 and at the other end to the cross bar 79 of the grip bar 71 (which cross bar 79 provides intermediate transverse grip member or punch grip cross-members). Thereby, each of the collision member 63 and the grip bar 71 may be independently and resiliently pivoted about their mountings on the base member 69, against the force of the hydraulic arm, upon application of a force (e.g. a training collision event). Lower grip member 81, which protrudes outward and upward from beneath the collision member 63, is resiliently mounted on the base member 69, whereby it can be resiliently lifted to simulate lifting in a ruck situation (or lifting of the apparatus described in the embodiments above).

Optionally, the location of collision and grip and extent duration of collision and grip as well as strength of lift by a user may be detected with sensors (not shown) provided in or on the apparatus, which data may be immediately available to the user by way of the display screen (not shown).

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 an elongate collision member mounted on a base member, the collision member having a collision surface for a user to hit or collide with, the collision surface defining an open inclined surface.

2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the collision member is moveable in a direction and/or by an amount responsive to one or more of the angle, height position, strength/power and technique of a collision by a user on collision member.

3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, which is configured for immediate successive collisions by the user or users.

4. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the collision surface is openly inclined at an angle of from 10° to 50° from the vertical.

5. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the collision member extends to a height from 50 to 150 cm upwards from the base member.

6. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, which apparatus further comprises 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.

7. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the one or a plurality of grip members are formed on a curved grip bar, which grip bar is mounted on the base member and/or the collision member.

8 A training apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the grip bar is pivotally mounted on the base member or the collision member whereby the grip bar may be varied in its angle of inclination with respect to the collision surface.

9. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the grip members are configured to be rotatable.

10. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of 6 to 9, wherein one or more grip members are provided disposed behind the collision surface, preferably by an amount of from 10 to 30 cm.

11. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base member is an elongate member having a first proximal portion, above at least a portion of which the collision member is disposed, and a second distal portion and wherein the apparatus is adapted for field training whereby the entire apparatus is moveable responsive to user collisions on the collision surface.

12. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the elongate base member is longitudinally tapered whereby the proximal portion is relatively broad and the distal portion is relatively narrow.

13. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the base member comprises an elongate frame having mounted therebelow a base panel member for contacting a training surface, such as turf or synthetic turf, enabling the base to be moveable across the playing surface.

14. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 13, wherein the base member is provided with an inclined lip at a distal end thereof.

15. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the base is provided with a plurality of protrusions to provide the base with resistance to sliding across a playing surface.

16. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the collision member is configured for movement relative to the base member in response to user collisions on the collision surface.

17. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 16, wherein the collision member is resiliently mounted on the base member, which is preferably fixed to a secure surface such as a floor or wall, for resilient movement in a plurality of directions relative the base member.

18. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 17, wherein the collision member is provided on a vertically hinged bracket that is mounted on a support, wherein the support (e.g. an hydraulic arm) enables the resilient movement in a longitudinal direction, being a direction substantially planar to the median line of the elongate collision member and wherein the hinged bracket is configured to allow resilient pivoting of the collision member about the hinged bracket in an intermediately transverse direction.

19. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the collision member is a hemi-cylindrical pad.

20. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, which is configured with 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.

21. A training apparatus as claimed in claim 20, which further comprises 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, wherein sensors are provided on the grip members to determine the grip location and optionally strength and duration of grip.

22. A training apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, which comprises two or more of said collision members mounted side by side on the base member.

23. A training apparatus comprising one or a plurality of collision members mounted on a base member, the collision member having a collision surface for a user to collide with, characterized in that the collision surface is configured with one or a plurality of sensors for determining the location, degree and extent of the collision with the collision surface.

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