Abstract:
An apparatus and method for conditioning a user properly throw a ball are provided. The apparatus is a body of resilient material of a size suitable to be worn on a hand of an individual. The body is has a first opening and a second opening through a thickness of the body. The user wears the apparatus by placing a first finger of a hand of the user through the first opening and a second finger of the hand through the second opening. Thereafter, the user moves an arm of the hand through a throwing motion.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    1. Field 
         [0002]    Baseball training and practice device. 
         [0003]    2. Background 
         [0004]    An objective of playing baseball is to accurately throw a ball at a target with a reasonable, often high velocity. To throw a baseball, a thrower must place their middle and index finger on one side of the ball and their thumb on the opposite side of the ball. The middle and index finger are slightly separated. This technique of handling a ball is also known as a throwing grip and is shown in  FIG. 1 . Many instructional techniques have been developed and implemented to help throwers accurately throw a ball at a target with a high velocity. These techniques assert that the position of the hand at the release point of a throw is a primary factor for determining which direction the ball will travel and with what rotation the ball will spin. For example, twisting or pronating the hand of the thrower prior to releasing the ball results in an inaccurately thrown ball with reduced velocity. Specifically by twisting the hand prior to release, an unequal amount of force is applied by the index and middle fingers to the ball, because the middle and index fingers are not jointly aligned behind the ball. This positioning of the middle and index fingers in turn causes the ball to rotate in a left or right direction relative to the route of the ball and causes the ball to travel at a reduced speed and take a longer, non-linear route to a target. 
         [0005]    The effect of an improper throwing motion can be clearly seen when throwing a four seam fastball. This fundamental throw, when executed properly, will rotate the four seams of a baseball from front to back on a linear path from the player throwing the ball to the intended target. This rotation produces backspin, which creates high pressure under the ball and low pressure on top of the ball allowing the ball to glide on a cushion of air toward the target (i.e. plane out). By traveling on this cushion of air, the ball travels in a straight line at a high velocity. In contrast, pronating or twisting the thrower&#39;s wrist during the throwing motion prevents the ball from rotating from front to back as described. The ball will instead rotate from left-to-right or right-to-left based on the unequal force applied by the middle and index fingers. Consequently, the ball will travel on a non-linear path at a reduced velocity toward an intended target. Therefore, pronating or twisting of the wrist reduces the thrower&#39;s effectiveness to throw the ball accurately while increasing the amount of time the ball takes to arrive at the target. 
         [0006]    Additionally, when properly throwing a ball without pronating or twisting the wrist, the thrower experiences the benefit of minimizing the amount of physical strain on his/her arm and/or shoulder. In particular, any twisting of the wrist during the release point will stretch the muscles and ligaments in the arm and shoulder of a thrower eventually leading to soreness and injury. Therefore, it is necessary that a thrower release the baseball with his/her index and middle fingers directly behind the ball while applying an equal amount of pressure on the ball by both fingers. If executed properly, the hand will return to the side of the thrower&#39;s body in a u-shaped path minimizing any unnecessary strain to the thrower&#39;s arm and shoulder. 
         [0007]    It is therefore critical that the hand of a thrower travel in a path toward the target with a minimal amount of twisting of the throwing wrist while the ball is being released.  FIG. 2   a  shows an example of a thrower properly throwing a ball. In this example, the wrist of the thrower is pointed straight down such that the palm of the throwing hand is parallel to the ground after the ball has been released from the hand of the thrower. 
         [0008]      FIG. 2   b  shows an example of a thrower improperly throwing a ball. In this example, the wrist of the thrower is pointed to the side such that the palm of the throwing hand is perpendicular to the ground after the ball has been released from the hand of the thrower. This improper throwing motion is the result of the thrower twisting his wrist prior to the release of the ball. As described below, this improper throwing motion may result in an inefficient, ineffective and possibly harmful throw. 
         [0009]    Despite the efficiency and effectiveness of throwing a ball without twisting or pronating the wrist, throwers often still instinctively throw a ball in this improper manner. Thus, there is a desire for an apparatus and method for training and conditioning a thrower to properly throw a ball as described above. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0010]    Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like references indicate similar elements. It should be noted that references to “an” or “one” embodiment in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and they mean at least one. 
           [0011]      FIG. 1  illustrates a throwing grip. 
           [0012]      FIG. 2   a  shows an example of a thrower properly throwing a ball. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2   b  shows an example of a thrower improperly throwing a ball. 
           [0014]      FIG. 3   a  shows a top side of an athletic training device. 
           [0015]      FIG. 3   b  shows a bottom side of an athletic training device. 
           [0016]      FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b  show an embodiment of the athletic training device that is configured for multiple sizes of individuals. 
           [0017]      FIG. 5   a  shows an embodiment of the athletic training device that includes a curved rear section. 
           [0018]      FIG. 5   b  shows an embodiment of the athletic training device with a rear section that is bent askew from the front section. 
           [0019]      FIG. 6  shows athletic training device being worn by a user. 
           [0020]      FIGS. 7   a ,  7   b , and  7   c  show a user properly throwing a ball using the athletic training device. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0021]    Several embodiments of the invention with reference to the appended drawings are now explained. While numerous details are set forth, it is understood that some embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this description. 
         [0022]      FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  illustrate one embodiment of athletic training device  300 .  FIG. 3   a  shows top side  302  of athletic training device  300  while  FIG. 3   b  shows bottom side  304  of athletic training device  300 . Athletic training device  300  assists a thrower/user (hereinafter “u ser”) properly develop an accurate and effective throwing motion by training the hand of a user to limit a twisting motion of the user&#39;s wrist prior to releasing the ball. By limiting the twisting of the wrist prior to release, the ball maintains a four-seam backspin which in-turn reduces the arc of the ball as it travels to a destination. This reduced arc limits the distance traveled, increases the average velocity of the ball, and ultimately the time the ball takes to arrive at its destination. 
         [0023]    The design and construction of athletic training device  300  will first be described followed by a description of methods for using athletic training device  300  to improve the throwing motion of a user. 
         [0024]    Athletic training device  300 , as shown in  FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  includes body  306  made of a resilient material. Resilient as used herein is defined by the capability of withstanding shock or force without permanent deformation or breakage. In some embodiments, the resilient material may be polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, carbon fiber, fiberglass, or cardboard. However, any resilient material may be used to form body  306 . 
         [0025]    Body  306  may be defined by various geometrical shapes including, but not limited to, a rectangle, a square, and an ellipse. In the embodiment of athletic training device  300  shown in  FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b , body  306  is rectangular. In some embodiments, the corners of body  306  may be rounded to improve aerodynamics and to reduce possible injuries caused by sharp corners. 
         [0026]    Body  306  may have varying dimensions. In one embodiment, the length of body  306  is 4 to 6½ inches, the width of body  306  is 2 to 5 inches, and the height or thickness of body  306  is ¼ to ¾ inches. 
         [0027]    Body  306  includes two openings  308   a  and  308   b  with center points  310   a  and  310   b , respectively. Openings  308   a  and  308   b  are sized to accept the index finger and middle finger of a user. Accordingly, openings  308   a  and  308   b  may be ¾ to 1 inches in diameter. Smaller diameters for openings  308   a  and  308   b  are preferential for users with smaller fingers (e.g. children) while larger diameters are preferential for users with larger finger (e.g. adults). In some embodiments, the diameters of openings  308   a  and  308   b  are equal in size while in other embodiments, the diameters of openings  308   a  and  308   b  are not equal. For example, opening  308   a  may be ¾ of an inch in diameter while opening  308   b  may be 1 inch in diameter. This configuration is sized to fit a user with a larger middle finger than index finger. 
         [0028]    Openings  308   a  and  308   b  may be formed in body  306  through various processes. For example, a drill may be used to bore openings  308   a  and  308   b  through body  306 , openings  308   a  and  308   b  may be cut or carved out of body  306 , body  306  may be formed through a casting or extrusion process to include openings  308   a  and  308   b , or any other similar set of processes may be used to create openings  308   a  and  308   b.    
         [0029]    Openings  308   a  and  308   b  are spaced in relation to each other such that the middle and index fingers of a user are slightly separated to mimic the standard throwing grip shown in  FIG. 1 . For example, the distance separating openings  308   a  and  308   b  may be between ¼-½ inches measured between the perimeter of openings  308   a  and  308   b.    
         [0030]    Although openings  308   a  and  308   b  are shown in  FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  to be circular, openings  308   a  and  308   b  may be defined by other shapes. For example, openings  308   a  and  308   b  may be elliptical. 
         [0031]    Openings  308   a  and  308   b  are positioned on body  306  such that when a user inserts fingers through openings  308   a  and  308   b  and places these fingers parallel to surface  312  of top side  302 , the fingers of the user do not extend past edge  314  of body  306 . Accordingly, the distance between centers  310   a  and  310   b  and edge  314  is greater than the length of a finger of the user. This distance may be established by determining the average finger length of a set of intended users. For example, some embodiments of athletic training device  300  may be directed to smaller individuals (e.g. children) while other embodiments may be directed to larger individuals (e.g. adults). In the embodiments of athletic training device  300  directed toward children, the distance between centers  310   a  and  310   b  and edge  314  of body  306  is smaller than the embodiments of athletic training device  300  directed to adults. 
         [0032]    Although the distance between centers  310   a  and  310   b  to edge  314  is longer than the average finger length of a set of intended users, this distance should not greatly exceed the average finger length of the set of intended users. For example, if an average length of an adult is four inches, an example of a distance between center  310   a  and center  310   b , respectively, to edge  314  is representatively 4½ to 6 inches. Thus, body  306  will just barely extend past the fingers of a user. Accordingly, the minor overlap between the fingers of a user and body  306  will not create undue wind resistance during the delivery of a throw. 
         [0033]    In some embodiments, athletic training device  300  may be jointly configured for multiple sizes of individuals (e.g. children and adults).  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b  show one such embodiment in which openings  308   a  and  308   b  are positioned closer to edge  314  than edge  316 . Based on the positioning of openings  308   a  and  308   b , the distance from centers  310   a  and  310   b  to edge  314  is smaller than the distance from centers  310   a  and  310   b  to edge  316 . Accordingly, a smaller user would insert his/her fingers directed towards edge  314  and a larger user would insert his/her fingers directed towards edge  316 . 
         [0034]    In other embodiments that are designed for use by a single size of individuals, rear section  502  of body  306  may be curved towards the wrist of a user as shown in  FIG. 5   a . Curving rear section  502  of body  306  provides a more aerodynamic structure that allows a user throw a ball with less drag caused by air resistance. In some embodiments, the curve of rear section  502  is between one to fifteen degrees. This low degree of angle assists in reducing drag, while angled rear section  502  does not interfere with the lower hand and wrist of the user during delivery of a throw. 
         [0035]    In still other embodiments, rear section  502  may be bent askew from front section  504  as shown in  FIG. 5   b . In this embodiment, rear section  502  is coupled to front section  504  through mid section  506 . Openings  308   a  and  308   b  may be located on mid section  506 , rear section  502 , front section  504 , or on a combination of these sections. The user places their fingers into openings  308   a  and  308   b  such that the fingers rest on front section  504 . Configuring body  306  as described in this embodiment reduces discomfort and interference potentially caused by rear section  502  interfering with the wrist of a user. 
         [0036]    In some embodiments, openings  308   a  and  308   b  are lined or coated with padding. The padding may be any material that assists in reducing irritation and provides a closer fit around the fingers of a user. For example, the padding may be rubber, foam, cloth, firm gel, or a similar material. The padding may be permanently affixed to openings  308   a  and  308   b  or it may be a removable insert that may be replaced by the user. For example, the padding may be defined by a convex cylindrical structure with a hole down the center axis of the cylinder structure. This convex structure allows the padding to fit snugly in openings  308   a  and  308   b  without the need for additional adhesives or fasteners. 
         [0037]    In some embodiments, bottom side  304  of body  306  may include gripping devices  318 . Gripping devices  318  provide grip for the ball as it is held between athletic training device  300  and the fingers of a user. Gripping devices  318  may be any set of devices capable of providing an adhesive or friction force that prevents the ball from slipping off body  306  before the intend release point. Gripping devices  318  may be a series of indentations/grooves scribed into bottom side  304 , a series of bumps coupled to bottom side  304 , an adhesive material applied to bottom side  304 , or any other similar device. 
         [0038]    In embodiments of athletic training device  300  intended for a single size of individuals (e.g. children or adults), gripping devices  318  are only applied adjacent to edge  314 . In embodiments of athletic training device  300  intended for multiple sizes of individuals (e.g. children and adults), gripping devices  318  are applied adjacent to both edges  314  and  316 . By applying gripping devices adjacent edges to both  314  and  316 , users of athletic training device will be provided with additional control over a ball while using device  300  regardless of their size. 
         [0039]    In some embodiments, body  306  may include a plurality of arrows to assist the user in throwing a ball. In  FIG. 3   a , top side  302  includes first top arrow  320 . First top arrow  320  is located adjacent to edge  314  and points toward edge  314 . First top arrow  320  allows the user judge his/her throwing motion. In particular, top arrow  322  should be pointing at the intended target immediately after the user releases the ball. If the arrow is not pointing at the intended target then the user may be twisting his/her wrist during the throw. An embodiment of athletic training device  300  may also include first bottom arrow  322  on bottom side  304  as shown in  FIG. 3   b . Bottom arrow  322  is located adjacent to edge  316  and points toward edge  316 . First bottom arrow  322  also allows the user judge his/her throwing motion. In particular, if the throwing form of the user is proper, bottom arrow  322  will be pointing at the intended target when the throwing hand is at the side of the thrower at the end of the throwing motion. If first bottom arrow  322  is not pointing at the intended target at the end of the throwing motion then the user may be twisting his/her wrist during the throw. 
         [0040]    In embodiments in which athletic training device  300  is designed for a multiple sizes of individuals (e.g. children and adults), top side  302  and bottom side  304  may include extra arrows in addition to first top arrow  320  and first bottom arrow  322 . As shown in  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b , top side  302  may include second top arrow  402  adjacent edge  316  and pointing to edge  316  and bottom side  304  may include second bottom arrow  404  adjacent edge  314  and pointing to edge  316 . These additional arrows are intended to assist a user judge their throwing motion in a similar fashion as arrows  320  and  322 . 
         [0041]    Arrows  320 ,  322 ,  402 , and  404  may be formed on top side  302  and bottom side  304 , respectively, using various methods. For example, arrows  320 ,  322 ,  402 , and  404  may be etched into sides  302  and  304 , applied as decals or stickers to sides  302  and  304 , painted on sides  302  and  304 , or any similar technique. 
         [0042]    As described above, athletic training device  300  may be designed to fit numerous possible configurations and arrangements. The examples provided above are merely illustrative and not limiting. 
         [0043]    Now methods for using athletic training device  300  to improve the throwing motion of a user will be described.  FIG. 6  shows athletic training device  300  being worn by a user. As shown, a user places an index finger and a middle finger through opening  308   a  and  308   b  and rests the inner portion of these fingers parallel to top side  302  of body  306 . A ball is thereinafter gripped between athletic training device  300  and a thumb of the user such that the ball is held in a throwing grip. 
         [0044]    Although different sets of fingers may be used to grip a ball to be thrown, the index and middle fingers are vital for nearly all throwing motions. Thus, while different finger arrangements may be used to hold a ball, the index and middle fingers of a user should be placed through openings  308   a  and  308   b  to ensure these fingers are properly conditioned. 
         [0045]    After gripping the ball as described above, the user winds up to throw a ball.  FIG. 7  shows a user properly throwing a ball using athletic training device  300 . Specifically,  FIG. 7   a  shows the user prior to releasing the ball,  FIG. 7   b  shows the user immediately after releasing the ball, and  FIG. 7   c  shows the user after the throwing motion has been completed. During the delivery of the ball, the user may become aware of several indicators that the pitch is being thrown improperly. 
         [0046]    Firstly, the user may immediately become aware of an improper throwing technique if the ball slips out of the throwing grip in an erratic fashion. Specifically, when using a proper throwing motion the ball will be held tightly between body  306  and the hand of a user, because body  306  is on top of the ball and preventing the ball from flying out of the grip of the user. However, if the user has twisted or pronated their wrist during the delivery of the ball, body  306  will not be located on top of the ball to prevent the ball from being released prematurely. Accordingly, the ball will be released at an unintended moment and fly off erratically. This erratic motion of the ball is a strong indication that the user improperly twisted or pronated their wrist during the delivery of the ball. 
         [0047]    Secondly, after releasing the ball, the user may become aware of an improper throwing technique if arrow  320  or arrow  402  is not directly pointing at the intended target. The direction of arrows  320  and  402  indicate if the user twisted or pronated their wrist during the delivery of the ball.  FIG. 7   b  shows a user properly throwing a ball using athletic training device  300  such that arrow  320  is directly at an intended target. 
         [0048]    Thirdly, at the end of the throwing motion, the user may become aware of an improper throwing technique if arrow  322  or arrow  404  are not directly pointing at an intended target.  FIG. 7   c  shows a user properly throwing a ball using athletic training device  300  such that arrow  322  is directly pointing at an intended target at the end of the throwing motion. If the user twisted or pronated their wrist during the delivery of the ball, arrow  322  would not be pointing at the target. 
         [0049]    Based at least on these three indicators, the user may use athletic training device  300  to determine if his/her throwing motion is inefficient, ineffective, and/or harmful as described above and adjust his/her throwing motion to achieve a more efficient throw. 
         [0050]    Although the embodiments described above have been described using a ball, athletic training device  300  may be used without a ball. For example, the user may perform shadow throws (i.e. going through the motions of throwing a ball without gripping a ball) to practice a proper throwing motion. 
         [0051]    Additionally, although the embodiments described above have been described or shown in relation to baseball, athletic training device  300  may be used with a variety of other sports and activities to assist users efficiently, effectively, and safely throw, shoot or swing an object. For example, athletic training device  300  may be used by participants of tennis, softball, cricket, basketball, ultimate Frisbee, and other similar sports and activities. 
         [0052]    To conclude, while certain embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that the invention is not limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those of ordinary skill in the art.