Abstract:
An apparatus includes a first plastic pipe. A padding surrounds a portion of the first plastic pipe. The padding comprises a material for mitigating injuries during striking. A cover encases the padding to further mitigate injury during striking. A pipe receiver grounds a motion of the plastic pipe to a structure. The pipe receiver comprises a bracket operable for joining to the structure, and a collar disposed between the bracket and the pipe for mitigating movement of the pipe within the bracket. A second plastic pipe and third plastic pipe mitigates stress on the first plastic pipe, wherein a strike to the padding flexes the plastic pipe and the plastic pipe springs back.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present continuation patent application claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. 120 of the U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 12/954,866 entitled “An Apparatus for a Lightweight Punching Bag”, filed on Nov. 27, 2010. The contents of this related patent application is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes to the extent that such subject matter is not inconsistent herewith or limiting hereof. 
     
    
     FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not applicable. 
       REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX 
       [0003]    Not applicable. 
       COPYRIGHT NOTICE 
       [0004]    A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. 
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    The present invention relates generally to a physical fitness apparatus. More particularly, the invention relates to a lightweight and flexible punching bag. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    Punching bags have been used by people throughout history to train for various different sports and combat purposes such as, but not limited to, military training, martial arts training, fitness training, strength training, training for boxing, etc. Punching bags are designed to be repeatedly hit and to absorb these hits without accumulating much damage. Punching bags are available in many different shapes and sizes, and often comprise a shell made of a durable material such as, but not limited to, leather, canvas, or synthetic material filled with a shock absorbing filler such as, but not limited to, sand, rags, foam, water, air, etc. 
         [0007]    A heavy bag is a large punching bag that is typically cylindrical in shape and may be hung from the ceiling by rope or chain or supported on the floor by a stand. Heavy bags are typically used to practice punches and kicks. Traditional boxing heavy bags are very heavy and provide a great deal of resistance. This weight and resistance can cause injuries to users, particularly in the arms from the shoulder through the hand and fingers, and the resistance may prevent people with joint or bone issues from using traditional heavy bags. The heavy weight of traditional heavy bags also makes these bags difficult to pick up, transport and install. 
         [0008]    Currently known solutions for reducing injuries caused by the resistance of traditional heavy bags include filling the heavy bags with water and/or adding a soft foam layer to the outside of the heavy bags. However, the weight and inertia exerted by the heavy bag against the arm and hands is still present with these solutions. There are also striking bags that are based on the floor and upright rather than hanging that flex on a spring-like mechanism. However, these bags cannot be permanently anchored and have a weight filled base that is on the floor and gets in the way of the user&#39;s feet when punching. 
         [0009]    In view of the foregoing, there is a need for improved techniques for providing a large punching bag that is lighter in weight and creates less resistance than traditional heavy bags. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0010]    The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which: 
           [0011]      FIG. 1  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary lightweight and flexible punching bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0012]      FIG. 2  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary bracket for a lightweight and flexible punching bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0013]      FIG. 3  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary lightweight and flexible punching bag in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0014]      FIG. 4  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary floor mounted lightweight and flexible punching bag in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0015]      FIG. 5  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary floor mounting for a lightweight and flexible punching bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and 
           [0016]      FIG. 6  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary movable lightweight and flexible punching bag in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
       [0017]    Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0018]    To achieve the forgoing and other objects and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, an apparatus for a lightweight punching bag is presented. 
         [0019]    In one embodiment an apparatus includes a plastic pipe, means surrounding a portion of the plastic pipe for mitigating injuries during striking by a user, and means for grounding motion of the plastic pipe to a structure, whereby a strike to the mitigating means flexes the plastic pipe from a first position and the plastic pipe springs back to the first position. Another embodiment further includes means for encasing the mitigating means. Yet another embodiment further includes means for mitigating stress on the plastic pipe proximate the grounding means. 
         [0020]    In another embodiment an apparatus includes a first plastic pipe comprising a first end and a second end. A padding surrounds a portion of the first plastic pipe and extends from the first end towards the second end. The padding comprises a material for mitigating injuries during striking by a user. A pipe receiver is joined proximate to the second end for grounding motion of the plastic pipe to a structure, wherein a strike to the padding flexes the plastic pipe from a first position and the plastic pipe springs back to the first position. Another embodiment further includes a cover for encasing the padding. Yet another embodiment further includes an insert disposed within the first plastic pipe proximate the second end for mitigating stress on the first plastic pipe proximate the pipe receiver. In still another embodiment the insert comprises a second plastic pipe and a third plastic pipe. In another embodiment the pipe receiver comprises a bracket operable for joining to a ceiling structure. In yet another embodiment the pipe receiver further comprises a collar disposed between the bracket and the pipe for mitigating movement of the pipe within the bracket. In still another embodiment the collar comprises a removed slice along a length of the collar for enabling a diameter adjustment. In another embodiment the pipe receiver comprises a base plate operable for supporting the plastic pipe vertically above a horizontal structure. In yet another embodiment the base plate is joined to the horizontal structure with bolts. Still another embodiment further includes a flooring material disposed above and about the base plate for grounding the base plate to the horizontal structure using a weight of the flooring material and a weight of the user. In another embodiment the horizontal structure comprises wheels and is operable for moving about a floor by a second user. In yet another embodiment the horizontal structure further comprises a handle for enabling the second user to move the horizontal structure. 
         [0021]    In another embodiment an apparatus includes a first plastic pipe comprising a first end and a second end. A padding surrounds a portion of the first plastic pipe and extends from the first end towards the second end. The padding comprises a material for mitigating injuries during striking by a user. A cover encases the padding. A pipe receiver is joined proximate to the second end for grounding motion of the plastic pipe to a structure. The pipe receiver comprises a bracket operable for joining to the structure, and a collar disposed between the bracket and the pipe for mitigating movement of the pipe within the bracket. The collar comprises a removed slice along a length of the collar for enabling a diameter adjustment. A concentrically oriented second plastic pipe and third plastic pipe is disposed within the first plastic pipe proximate the second end for mitigating stress on the first plastic pipe proximate the pipe receiver, wherein a strike to the padding flexes the plastic pipe from a first position and the plastic pipe springs back to the first position. In another embodiment the bracket is operable for supporting the plastic pipe vertically below a ceiling structure. In yet another embodiment the bracket is operable for supporting the plastic pipe vertically above a horizontal structure. Still another embodiment further includes a flooring material disposed above and about the bracket for grounding the base plate to the horizontal structure using a weight of the flooring material and a weight of the user. In another embodiment the horizontal structure comprises wheels and a handle, and is operable for moving about a floor by a second user. 
         [0022]    Other features, advantages, and objects of the present invention will become more apparent and be more readily understood from the following detailed description, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0023]    The present invention is best understood by reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. 
         [0024]    Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention, recognize a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches, depending upon the needs of the particular application, to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate, and alternative embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive. 
         [0025]    It is to be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular methodology, compounds, materials, manufacturing techniques, uses, and applications, described herein, as these may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “an element” is a reference to one or more elements and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. Similarly, for another example, a reference to “a step” or “a means” is a reference to one or more steps or means and may include sub-steps and subservient means. All conjunctions used are to be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Thus, the word “or” should be understood as having the definition of a logical “or” rather than that of a logical “exclusive or” unless the context clearly necessitates otherwise. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. Language that may be construed to express approximation should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
         [0026]    Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Preferred methods, techniques, devices, and materials are described, although any methods, techniques, devices, or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the present invention. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
         [0027]    From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. Such variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art, and which may be used instead of or in addition to features already described herein. 
         [0028]    Although Claims have been formulated in this Application to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalization thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as presently claimed in any Claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the present invention. 
         [0029]    Features which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. The Applicants hereby give notice that new Claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of such features during the prosecution of the present Application or of any further Application derived therefrom. 
         [0030]    As is well known to those skilled in the art many careful considerations and compromises typically must be made when designing for the optimal manufacture of a commercial implementation any system, and in particular, the embodiments of the present invention. A commercial implementation in accordance with the spirit and teachings of the present invention may configured according to the needs of the particular application, whereby any aspect(s), feature(s), function(s), result(s), component(s), approach(es), or step(s) of the teachings related to any described embodiment of the present invention may be suitably omitted, included, adapted, mixed and matched, or improved and/or optimized by those skilled in the art, using their average skills and known techniques, to achieve the desired implementation that addresses the needs of the particular application. 
         [0031]    Detailed descriptions of preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner. 
         [0032]    It is to be understood that any exact measurements/dimensions or particular construction materials indicated herein are solely provided as examples of suitable configurations and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Depending on the needs of the particular application, those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of the following teachings, a multiplicity of suitable alternative implementation details. 
         [0033]    At least some preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a new type of “heavy bag” or punching bag for activities such as, but not limited to, boxing, martial arts and physical fitness. Instead of using weight to create resistance to punching, at least some preferred embodiments use padding around a flexible plastic pipe. The striking surface in at least some preferred embodiments only moves a short range because of the pipe&#39;s limited flexibility yet provides a small amount of resistance compared to a weight-filled heavy bag. One result of this small resistance is that there is less impact on the arms and hands of a user who is punching the bag. This is true while striking at least some preferred embodiments at all levels of power and speed as compared to hitting a heavy bag at the same level. At least some preferred embodiments are lightweight yet flex enough when punched to produce far less resistance on the joints compared to a traditional heavy bag and therefore put less strain on shoulders, arms and hands. This results in less wear and tear on the joints and less injuries and enables a wider variety of people to be able to exercise with at least some preferred embodiments including, but not limited to, children, older people, and people with injuries that prevent them from hitting a traditional heavy bag. 
         [0034]    Because at least some preferred embodiments are lighter than traditional heavy bags, they are also easier to ship, carry and set up for the average consumer. Because of the thin diameter of at least some preferred embodiments, a user must execute their punches in a more focused and accurate fashion, aiming for a narrower target. Additionally, because of the quick, short-range movement of at least some preferred embodiments, users must employ timing and speed to use them, which actually helps to increase these skills. This quick, short-range movement, or flexing back and forth, also forces the user to “snap” the punch instead of “pushing” the punch. In “snapping” a punch, the puncher throws a punch and quickly brings the first back to position. When “pushing” a punch, the first is not quickly brought back to position. Snapping punches and bringing the first back to position are fundamentals that are universally taught in martial arts and boxing. The flexing motion of at least some preferred embodiments causes the bag to retract and make contact with the first if it is left near the bag and not brought back to position. The motion of the bag thereby reminds and conditions users to snap their punches and bring their fists back to position. 
         [0035]      FIG. 1  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary lightweight and flexible punching bag  100 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, punching bag  100  comprises a pipe  101  covered with padding  103 . Pipe  101  is preferably a four-foot long piece of 1¼″ inch, schedule 40 PVC pipe. The length of pipe  101  may vary depending on the height of the ceiling to which punching bag  100  is to be affixed. In alternate embodiments pipes of various different diameters may be used. Furthermore, in alternate embodiments a support other than a plastic pipe may be used such as, but not limited to, tubing made of different materials including, but not limited to, metal, non-circular tubing such as, but not limited to, square tubing or non-tubular supports for example, without limitation, a wooden dowel. However, 1¼-inch, schedule 40, PVC pipe is the preferred material as it provides an amount of resistance that generally minimizes impact on the arm joints while providing an amount of flexibility and movement of the punching surface that supports increased athletic performance. PVC is also ready-made and inexpensive. 
         [0036]    In the present embodiment, the bottom of pipe  101  is wrapped in padding  103 . Padding  103  is preferably 1-inch thick closed cell foam; however, other types of padding may be used such as, but not limited to, different types of foam, wool or cotton batting, gel material, etc. In the present embodiment, padding  103  preferably extends two feet up from the bottom of pipe  101  and is long enough to wrap around pipe  101  so that padding  103  totals five to nine inches in diameter once wrapped. In alternate embodiments the height and diameter of padding  103  can vary infinitely; however, two feet in height and five to nine inches in diameter is an excellent size for focused punching. In the present embodiment, once padding  103  is wrapped around pipe  101 , padding  103  is affixed to itself and pipe  101  by tape or adhesive so it does not unwind. The tightly bound padding  103  can then be encased by a cover made of a durable material such as, but not limited to, leather, canvas, vinyl, etc. Some embodiments may be implemented without a covering around the padding. 
         [0037]    In an alternate embodiment that may be mass manufactured, a cylinder of closed cell foam preferably two feet long and five to nine inches in diameter with a center hole slightly narrower than the diameter of the pipe and approximately one foot, nine inches long may be made to snugly fit onto the bottom portion of the pipe. The foam cylinder can then be encased by a leather, canvas or vinyl cover if so desired. The size and dimensions of the foam cylinder may vary. It is also possible to use a variety of different padding materials in a cylindrical shape as a punching surface such as, but not limited to, natural materials or gel materials. Other alternate embodiments may comprise a filler material such as, but not limited to, sand, water or foam pieces contained by a cover rather than a solid piece of padding. Yet other alternate embodiments may use a combination of padding materials. 
         [0038]    In the present embodiment, pipe  101  is preferably hung from a ceiling rafter  104  using a pipe receiver. The pipe receiver is firmly secured to the ceiling rafter to mechanically ground the motion of punching bag  100 . This is done by inserting the top of pipe  101  into a metal bracket  105  sized to snugly fit around pipe  101 . Bracket  105  is screwed or bolted into rafter  104  so padding  103  hangs straight down from rafter  104  when pipe  101  is coupled to bracket  105 . Pipe  101  is firmly affixed to rafter  104  and can flex from this attachment point. 
         [0039]    In the present embodiment, a metal collar  107 , approximately 2½ inches long fits snugly over pipe  101  near the top. Collar  107  may be longer or shorter in alternate embodiments. In the present embodiment, collar  107  effectively fills any space between pipe  101  and the inside diameter of bracket  105 . This minimizes any “play”, or slight movement, of pipe  101  within bracket  105 . Collar  107  has a slice  109  removed, approximately ½ inch wide, along the full length of collar  107  so that the diameter of collar  107  has some flexibility; however, this slice may not be included in some embodiments. In alternate embodiments means other than a metal collar may be used to minimize the play between the pipe and the bracket such as, but not limited to, collars of various different materials, rubber boots, adhesives, etc. Other alternate embodiments may be implemented without these means for minimizing play. 
         [0040]    In the present embodiment for added durability, additional pieces of pipe may be inserted into the inside of pipe  101 . Preferably, an eighteen-inch length of 1-inch diameter PVC pipe  120  is placed inside pipe  101 , near the top, and a nine inch length of ¾-¾″ inch inch diameter fiberglass pipe  110  is placed inside the 1-inch diameter pipe, also near the top. This creates stability and strength at the point of greatest vulnerability to stress and breakage, which is the point where pipe  101  flexes against bracket  105 . This also disperses the energy of the flex motion gradually down pipe  101  instead of focusing all of the energy on the point where pipe  101  meets bracket  105 . In alternate embodiments reinforcement members may be made of various different materials. In other alternate embodiments, reinforcement members may not be included. In some alternate embodiments, the pipe may be made of material that is stronger or more flexible than PVC to reduce stress at this point. 
         [0041]      FIG. 2  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary bracket  105  for a lightweight and flexible punching bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, bracket  105  comprises a metal base plate  201  with four screws  203  that attach bracket  105  to a rafter  104  and a circular receiver  205  into which a pipe may be inserted. Receiver  205  is preferably welded to base plate  201 . Bracket  105  has two fastening screws  207  that tighten into the pipe to lock the pipe into place so the pipe cannot slide out of receiver  205 . In alternate embodiments means other than tightening screws may be used to attach the pipe to the bracket such as, but not limited to, bolts that go through the entire diameter of the pipe, clamps, adhesives, welding, threading, a stoppage plate or cap affixed to the top of the pipe above the bracket, etc. A collar placed between bracket  105  and the pipe, as shown by way of example in  FIG. 1 , generally prevents tightening screws  207  from digging into the pipe and potentially weakening the PVC. In some embodiments additional support gussets may be used to attach bracket  105  to rafter  104  in order to absorb some of the energy of the flex motion of the pipe. 
         [0042]    Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will readily recognize that a multiplicity of suitable means or pipe receivers exist for securely fastening the pipe of a punching bag according to at least some preferred embodiments to a ceiling rafter so that it hangs vertically. For example, without limitation, a ready-made means to securely fasten the pipe to a ceiling rafter is a “speed rail” fitting, which can be bolted onto the rafter. Once the fitting is bolted onto the rafter, the pipe is inserted into the receiver of the fitting and secured with the two setscrews provided on the receiver. Other non-limiting examples of means that may be used to attach the pipe to a rafter include, but are not limited to, flanges, threaded receivers, clamps, hooks, etc. Furthermore, punching bags according to at least some preferred embodiments may be hung from structures other than ceiling rafters. For example, without limitation, the bag may be hung from a doorframe or from a horizontal surface by a flange. The bag may also be hung from a stand-alone frame. In other alternate embodiments, the bag may be implemented with a stand or base that enables the bag to rest on the floor. In one such embodiment, the padded pipe may be securely anchored to the floor instead of a ceiling so that the bare end of the pipe is firmly attached to a bracket on the floor and the padded end is orientated upward at punching level. In another floor based embodiment, the bare end of the pipe is attached to a pipe receiver mounted on a small piece of plywood. The plywood is bolted onto four rolling casters thereby making the punching bag a rolling target. A push bar may be added to the rolling cart to enable someone to move the rolling cart around while the user hits a moving target. In yet another floor based embodiment, the punching bag may be attached to a base on the floor that does not have wheels. 
         [0043]      FIG. 3  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary lightweight and flexible punching bag  100  in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In typical use of the present embodiment, once punching bag  100  is attached to a ceiling rafter  104  by attaching a pipe  101  to a bracket  105 , a user  303  can use a padded area  103  as a target for punching or kicking as one would a traditional “heavy bag”. Punching bag  100  is preferably used in an area where user  303  uses it for exercise. This would normally be in an enclosed area with a ceiling; however, this may conceivably be in any area that has something structurally solid overhead to which pipe  101  may be firmly anchored. Most commonly, punching bag  100  is used in a home&#39;s basement, attic or garage. Punching bag  100  may also be used in a gym or other type of building or structure. 
         [0044]      FIG. 4  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary floor mounted lightweight and flexible punching bag in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Punching bag  400  is similar to punching bag  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , but has been inverted for floor mounting. A pipe receiver vertically supports punching bag  100  above a horizontal structure. In the present embodiment, base plate or bracket  419  receives pipe  401 . Base plate  419  is securely fastened to floor  417  by bolts  421 . Other non-limiting examples of means that may be used to fasten base plate  419  to floor  417  include, but are not limited to, flanges, threaded receivers, floor anchors, lag bolts, clamps, hooks, etc. With punching bag  400  securely grounded to floor  417 , user  413  may then engage in punching and kicking exercises. 
         [0045]      FIG. 5  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary floor mounting for a lightweight and flexible punching bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is similar to that shown in  FIG. 4 , but differs in that base plate  519  is not fastened to floor  517 . In order to mechanically ground punching bag  500 , a large piece or pieces of flooring material  530  is placed above and about base plate  519  where the receiving end of base plate  519  protrudes through hole  535 . Flooring material  530  is sufficiently large enough for the user to stand on while engaging in punching and kicking exercises. The combined weight of the user and the flooring material  530  grounds the base plate  519  to floor  517 . 
         [0046]      FIG. 6  is a diagrammatic side view of an exemplary movable lightweight and flexible punching bag in use, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, base plate  619  is secured to a movable horizontal structure  645  to mechanically ground punching bag  600  to structure  645 . The receiving end of base plate  619  includes two ninety degree bends to position punching bag  600  in front of structure  645 . This keeps the feet of user  6   l   3  from potentially bumping into structure  645 . In the present embodiment caster wheels  647  enable structure  645  to be moved about floor  617 . Other non-limiting examples of means to enable structure  645  to move include, but are not limited to, fixed position wheels, fixed axel wheels, floor rollers, inflatable tires, etc. Push bar  650  is joined to the back end of structure  645  to enable a helper  640  to move punching bag  600  about floor  617  to provide additional training exercises for user  613 . Other non-limiting examples of means to move structure  645  include, but are not limited to, a fixed pole, a pole on axes for rotation, a rope, a steering means for the rear wheels, etc. 
         [0047]    Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods of providing a lightweight and flexible punching bag according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. For example, the particular implementation of the bracket may vary depending upon the particular type of pipe used. The pipes described in the foregoing were directed to round implementations; however, similar techniques are to use pipes or tubing of various different shapes including, but not limited to, square or triangular tubing and to provide brackets in corresponding shapes. Implementations of the present invention that do not use round pipes are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims. 
         [0048]    Claim elements and steps herein may have been numbered and/or lettered solely as an aid in readability and understanding. Any such numbering and lettering in itself is not intended to and should not be taken to indicate the ordering of elements and/or steps in the claims