Patent Publication Number: US-9849365-B2

Title: Foot mountable golfing aid

Description:
This application is a Continuation-In-Part of application Ser. No. 14/813,288, filed Jul. 30, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention pertains to golf aids, and may find particular use in golf aids that are attachable to the foot of a golfer. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Golf is a complex sport that involves a summation of human movement and forces prior to, during and after ball contact. Golf aids can help a golfer improve their game. Some devices vary tremendously, while others have only minor variations that separate them; therefore, even subtle differences can make a large difference in a complex series of alignments and movements involved in every golf stroke. Further, many prior golf aids are placed on the ground, and picked up and moved, each time a golfer wants to change location. Other golfing aids can damage putting greens and are burdensome to walk with. Thus, there is a need for a foot mountable golfing aid that is not burdensome to walk with and does not damage putting greens. 
     SUMMARY 
     Disclosed herein is a foot mountable golfing aid that is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of a golfer in relation to a target when the foot mountable golfing aid is mounted on the foot of a golfer. The foot mountable golfing aid includes a foot attachment component that is configured to be attached to a foot of a golfer, and a vertically adjustable reference component. The vertically adjustable reference component is supported by the foot attachment component. The vertically adjustable reference component is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of a golfer in relation to a target when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. 
     Also disclosed herein is a shin mountable golfing aid operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of the golfer in relation to a target when mounted on the shin of a golfer. The shin mountable golfing aid including a shin attachment component configured to attach to a shin of a golfer, and a vertically and/or horizontally adjustable reference component that is supported by the shin attachment component. The vertically and/or horizontally adjustable reference component is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of the golfer in relation to a target when the shin mountable golfing aid is attached to the shin of a golfer. 
     Further disclosed herein is a golf aid shoe operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of the golfer in relation to a target when worn by a golfer. The golf aid shoe including a shoe configured to receive a foot of a golfer, and a vertically adjustable reference component that is supported by the shoe. The vertically adjustable reference component operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of the golfer in relation to a target when the golf aid shoe is worn by a golfer. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 1C  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 1D  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an embodiment of a boom of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 4B  shows a cross section of a cross-bar extension member of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 4C  shows a cross section of a cross-bar counterweight of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates an embodiment of a contoured plate of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates an embodiment of a contoured plate of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 6B  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 6C  illustrates an embodiment of a shoe of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates an embodiment of a shin mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 7B  illustrates an embodiment of a shin mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following detailed description, numerous specific embodiments are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the golfing aid apparatus and methods disclosed herein. However, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the present embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or by using alternate elements or processes. In other instances, well-known processes, procedures, and/or components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of embodiments disclosed herein. As used herein, the terms “swing” and “stroke” may refer to a putting stroke, a partial swing, chipping stroke, or a full swing. As used herein, the terms “vertical” and “vertically” are in relation to a direction perpendicular to ground, and the terms “horizontal” and “horizontally” are in relation to a direction parallel to the ground. As used herein, the terms “shoe” and “foot” both refer to a shoe or a foot of a golfer or user of embodiments of the apparatus as disclosed herein. As used herein, “reference path” may refer to a swing path, a swing plane, and/or a swing alignment. 
     As indicated, present embodiments provide a foot mountable golfing aid (“golfing aid”) that is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of a golfer in relation to a target when the foot mountable golfing aid is mounted on the foot of a golfer. Additionally, the golfing aid can indicate the height of the club through the impact area. The foot mountable golfing aid includes a foot attachment component that can be attached to a foot of a golfer, and a reference component that provides a reference for a swing or putting stroke of a golfer. Preferably, the reference component is a vertically adjustable reference component. The vertically adjustable reference component is supported by the foot attachment component. The vertically adjustable reference component is vertically adjustable and operable to indicate a swing plane and provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a body of a golfer in relation to a target when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer and the vertically adjustable reference component is adjusted to a desired height. Depending on the height of the golfer as well as the type of swing the golfer intends to perform (i.e. full swing or putting stroke) the desired vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component may vary. 
     The foot mountable golfing aid can be worn on either foot of a golfer, preferably a golfer wears the foot mountable golfing aid on each foot during practice of a golf swing. Wearing the golfing aid on the front foot can help train certain swing elements that are different from swing elements that may be trained when a golfer wears the golfing aid on the back foot. 
     The golfing aid can include a vertically adjustable reference component used to provide a reference path for a putting stroke, chipping stroke, or full swing of a golfer that can be used to improve the putting stroke, chipping stroke, or a full swing of the golfer. During putting, the golfing aid can improve alignment of the club face (i.e. provide a reference perpendicular to a target line for the golfer) as well as help position the feet of a golfer with respect to a target line. The golfing aid can also help a golfer identify their shoulder location, hip location, knee location, the putter club head height during a stroke, and ball position. For different swings the vertically adjustable reference component can be adjusted to different heights to accommodate different lie angles and lengths of the different golf clubs in the set and to adjust to the posture and stature of a golfer. 
     During a full swing, the golfing aid can help improve a golfer&#39;s swing path, alignment, shoulder plane, weight transfer, stance, ball position, and hand path. For example, the golf aid can include a vertically adjustable reference component which is positioned between a golfer&#39;s feet and a golf ball wherein the vertically adjustable reference component helps a golfer identify the path a club should travel through impact of the golf ball. In an embodiment, wearing the golfing aid on the back foot helps a golfer work on the swing path of the take away, while wearing the golfing aid on the front foot helps work on swing path on the follow through. 
     The golfing aid can improve alignment, as the club face can be easily seen while wearing the golfing aid, and in an embodiment it is easy to see if the club face is perpendicular to the cross-bar of the golfing aid. The golfing aid can help a golfer ensure that their feet are parallel. Additionally, the golfing aid can help a golfer ensure that their toe line is parallel to their intended target line. Further, the golf aid can help a golfer identify whether their shoulders, hips, and/or knees are square. In an embodiment, the golfing aid helps a golfer learn how to turn their torso. 
     In an embodiment, the reference component of the golfing aid can include a boom or rod that extends outwardly from the foot of a golfer, and a cross-bar at the end of the boom which can be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the boom. Preferably, the cross-bar is straight however in an alternate embodiment the cross-bar can include one or more bends, such as at either of the ends thereof. The cross-bar or a portion of the cross-bar preferably runs parallel to a target line of the golfer. Thus, when the golfing aid is worn on the front foot, the club head should travel under a portion of cross-bar, when the cross-bar is set to parallel (i.e. horizontal) to the ground, from the impact of the golf ball until the club head reaches the front foot. In order for this to occur a proper weight shift should also occur. 
     The golf aid can also help a golfer obtain a proper width of stance. For example, in an embodiment, the cross-bar may be moved from a horizontal position to a vertical position. When in the vertical position, the shin bones of a golfer should be in line with the vertical portion of the cross-bar. This ensures proper width of stance based on bone structure so that a golfer can make a backswing without sway. 
     The cross-bar of the reference component can also include markings thereon, such that a golfer can consistently position the ball with respect to their body. Additionally, to ensure a proper hand path, a golfer must take the club back wherein their hands stay between a portion of the cross-bar that is parallel to the target line and their legs. The hands should not go outside of the cross-bar. On the way down during a swing, the hands should return from inside the cross-bar to ensure a good path. If the hands come from outside the cross-bar on the downswing, a golfer will be coming over the top of the swing plane and the golfer will have a path that does not promote a straight shot. 
       FIGS. 1A-1D  illustrate a preferred embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid  100  according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. As shown in  FIGS. 1A-1D , the foot mountable golfing aid  100  includes a foot attachment component  110  that is configured to be attached to a foot of a golfer during use, and a vertically adjustable reference component  120  that is supported by the foot attachment component  110 . The vertically adjustable reference component  120  is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a golfer&#39;s body in relation to a target when the foot mountable golfing aid  100  is attached to the foot of a golfer. The vertically adjustable reference component  120  can include a first end portion  121  pivotally attached to the foot attachment component  110  at a pivot  123 . The vertically adjustable reference component  120  can also include a second end portion  122  that is outward of the first end portion  121  such that the second end portion  122  may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component  120  around the first end portion  121 . The second end portion  122  preferably provides a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. 
     In an embodiment, the second end portion  122  can include one or more lasers  140  (see  FIG. 1A ) that provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer wherein the one or more lasers  140  can be directed towards the ground and/or outwardly. For example, in an embodiment, the one or more lasers  140  can be configured to illustrate a linear reference path on the ground wherein the reference path can be configured to be parallel to a desired target line of a stroke of a golfer. In a further embodiment, the one or more lasers  140  can be located at any position on the foot mountable golfing aid  100 . 
     In an embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  120  can include a base  124  at the first end portion  121  of the vertically adjustable reference component  120 . The base  124  has an opening  126  in which a boom  125  that extends outwardly from the base  124  is located. Preferably, the opening  126  is a through opening that extends completely through a portion of the base  124 . The opening  126  preferably includes the boom  125  therein such that the boom  125  is movable within the opening  126  of the base  124  wherein the boom  125  may be movable among a retracted position, intermediate positions, and an extended position. In an embodiment, the boom  125  may be friction fit in the base  124  such that the position of the boom  125  may be finely adjusted within the base  124 . In a preferred embodiment, the opening  126  of the base can include at least one groove (not shown) wherein at least one rail (not shown) on the boom  125  is fitted in the groove such that the boom  125  is aligned in the base  124 , or in an alternate embodiment the base can include at least one rail that is fitted in a groove of the boom. 
     In an alternate embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  120  can include a boom  125  having a first end portion pivotally attached to the foot attachment component  110  and a second end portion outward of the first end portion. The second end portion may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component around the first end, wherein the second end portion provides the reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. In an alternative embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component can include a boom  125  that can have a first portion that is vertical or substantially vertical to the foot attachment component  110  and a second portion that extends horizontally from the first portion. The first section of the boom  125  in this embodiment may be extendable such that the vertical height of the boom may be increased or decreased. Likewise, the second section of the boom can be extendable such that the horizontal length of the boom may be increased or decreased. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 1A-1D , the boom  125  can include a cross-bar  129  at the end thereof wherein the cross-bar  129  is configured to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. Preferably the cross-bar  129  extends perpendicular to the length of the boom  125 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  129  may be integral with the boom  125 , in an alternative embodiment, the cross-bar  129  may be attached to the end of the boom  125  with screws or the like. For example, the cross-bar  129  may include two pieces that each screw into the boom  125 , such that the cross-bar  129  may be removed. In a different embodiment, the cross-bar  129  can be a single piece that screws into the end of the boom  125 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  129  can include a level  141 , such as a bubble level or digital level, wherein the level may indicate the slope of the ground in which a golfer is standing. The level  141  can indicate to a golfer when the golfer needs to adjust ball position or their stance such as when a golf ball has an uneven lie in the fair way. Preferably the level  141  is at the center of the cross-bar  129  (see  FIG. 1B ), however the level  141  can be included in any position on the golfing aid  100 . In an embodiment, the level  141  and/or the laser  140 , as well as other electronic functions of the golfing aid  100 , can communicate with a golfer&#39;s cell phone via a cell phone application and blue tooth or the like. In this embodiment, the golf aid  100  includes the necessary electrical components such as a logic controller, power source, and the like. 
     In an embodiment, the foot attachment component  110  can include a contoured plate  111  that is configured to fit against an upper portion of a foot or shoe of a golfer when attached to the foot of a golfer. Preferably, the contoured plate  111  is contoured such that the foot attachment component  110  can be attached to the left or right foot of golfer, however in a further embodiment, the contoured plate  111  can be contoured for a right foot of a golfer or a left foot of a golfer. The contoured plate  111  preferably includes openings  113  therein that receive straps  114  (see  FIG. 1A ) that are operable to attach the foot mountable golfing aid  100  to the foot of a golfer. The straps  114  can be any type of straps that are operable to affix the foot mountable golfing aid  100  to the foot of a golfer such as straps that are tie-able, straps that are elastic, straps that include buckles, straps that include a tightening device, or straps that are velcro straps. The contoured plate  111  preferably includes a soft pad on a lower surface thereof, so as to provide cushioning between the foot attachment component  110  and the foot or shoe of a golfer. Furthermore, as the contoured plate  111  is preferably formed of plastic, the pad can reduce scuffing of a golfer&#39;s shoe during use of the foot mountable golfing aid  100 . 
     In an embodiment, an upper portion of the contoured plate  111  of foot attachment component  110  includes a rotatable turret  112  which supports the vertically adjustable reference component  120  such that the vertically adjustable reference component  120  may be horizontally rotated (or translated) about the rotatable turret  112 . The contoured plate  111  preferably also includes one or more cut outs  115  that preferably each extend between an upper and the lower surface of the contoured plate  111 . The one or more cutouts  115  are configured to increase the flexibility of the contoured plate, such that a golfer has increased flexibility during practice with the foot mountable golfing aid  100  and can also bend their toes during use. 
     In an embodiment, the foot attachment component  110  and/or the vertically adjustable reference component  120  include a locking mechanism  116  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component in place such that the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  120  may be fixed. During different types of swings such as a full swing or a putting stroke, the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  120  is preferably set to a desired position. Preferably, the locking mechanism  116  is a spring loaded lock (see  FIGS. 3A and 3B ), a tab in groove lock (see  FIGS. 1A-1D ), or a tightenable fastener. In a preferred embodiment, the rotatable turret  112  includes a locking mechanism  117  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component  120  in place such that the horizontal position of the vertically adjustable reference component  120  may be fixed. Preferably, the locking mechanism  117  is a spring loaded lock (see  FIGS. 3A and 3B ), a tab in groove lock (see  FIGS. 1A-1D ), or a tightenable fastener. 
     The vertically adjustable reference component  120  is preferably extendable such that the horizontal distance that an end portion of the vertically adjustable reference component  120  is from a golfer may be set. For example, the boom  125  is preferably a telescoping boom  125  having at least first and second sections wherein the second section can extend into and out of the first section. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 1A-1D , the boom  125  preferably includes a first section  125   a , a second section  125   b , and a third section  125   c  wherein the third section  125   c  can telescope into the second section  125   b  and the second section  125   b  can telescope into the first section  125   a . In a preferred arrangement, the first section  125   a  can telescope into the base  124 . Preferably the first section  125   a , the second section  125   b , and/or the third section  125   c  include finger tabs  128  that aid a golfer in extending or retracting a respective section of the boom  125 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , the first, second, and third sections  125   a ,  125   b , and  125   c  of the boom  125  are in an extended position, and as shown in  FIGS. 1C and 1D , the first, second, and third sections  125   a ,  125   b , and  125   c  of the boom  125  are in retracted position. When the first, second, and third sections  125   a ,  125   b , and  125   c  of the boom  125  are in the retracted position, a golfer may easily walk to different locations on a golf course without the golfing aid  100  obstructing the golfer&#39;s walking path. Thus, the foot mountable golfing aid  100  is mobile with the golfer and easily usable. Therefore, a golfer can increase practice efficiency as the golfer does not need to remove the foot mountable golfing aid  100  during practice, and can adjust the golfing aid  100  to a multitude of positions for each upcoming stroke during a practice session. In this manner, a golfer can use the golfing aid  100  during practice and/or during a recreational round of golf. 
     In an embodiment a first section of the telescoping boom  125  can be hollow and can include at least one groove in the interior thereof and the second section of the telescoping boom  125  can include at least one rail on an exterior thereof. In this embodiment the rail of the second section fits in the groove of the first section such that the second section is aligned with the first section and the second section may be telescoped into and out of the first section. Preferably, the first section comprises two grooves in the interior thereof and the second section comprises two corresponding rails on the exterior thereof. The rails of the second section preferably provide a friction fit in the respective grooves such that second section can be telescoped within the first section to a predetermined position. 
     In an embodiment, the foot mountable golfing aid  100  can include a movable ball marker  160  that allows a golfer to mark the position of a golf ball. As shown in  FIG. 1A , the movable ball marker  160  is located on the boom  125 , however, in an alternate embodiment, the movable ball marker  160  can be located on the foot attachment component  110 . In another embodiment, the cross-bar  129  and/or a portion of the boom  125  can include a position indicator  161  to indicate a relationship between a foot of a golfer and the position of a golf ball such that a golfer can consistently locate the ball at a proper position. In an embodiment, the position indicator  161  can include markings with predetermined angles, or alternatively the position indicator  161  can be a measurement device such as a ruler. In an additional embodiment, the cross-bar  129  can include a backswing rail  180  (see  FIG. 1B ) that is operable to limit the back swing of a golfer. The back swing rail  180  is preferably adjustable, and more preferably removable from the cross-bar  129 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a preferred embodiment of a telescoping boom. As shown in  FIG. 2 , the boom  125  preferably includes a first section  125   a , a second section  125   b , and a third section  125   c  wherein the third section  125   c  can telescope into the second section  125   b  and the second section  125   b  can telescope into the first section  125   a . The first section  125   a  is preferably hollow and includes two grooves (i.e. guides)  150  in which two rails  151  of the second section  125   b  are inserted. The second section  125   b  is also preferably hollow and includes two grooves or guides (not shown) in which two rails (not shown) of the third section  125   c  are inserted. Likewise, the first section  125   a  can include two rails  151  that are fitted into the base  124  of the vertically adjustable reference component  120 . Preferably, the first, second, and third sections  125   a ,  125   b ,  125   c  each include a cut out  152  at respective ends thereof, such that the respective ends can be fitted into an adjacent section or base and provide a friction fit within the grooves  150  such that the horizontal position of the cross-bar  129  can be finely adjusted. The first, second, and/or third sections  125   a ,  125   b ,  125   c  of the boom  125  can also include finger tabs  128  that aid a golfer in extending or retracting a respective section to a desired location. 
     In an embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  120  can include a hinge  170  along a length thereof such that a second end portion  122  of the vertically adjustable reference component  120  can be folded towards a first end portion  121  of the vertically adjustable reference component  120 . For example,  FIGS. 3A and 3B  illustrate an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid  100  in which the boom  125  includes a hinge  170  along the length thereof such that the boom  125  includes first and second sections  125   a ,  125   b  wherein the second section  125   b  can be folded towards the first section  125   a . In the folded upright position (see  FIG. 3B ), a golfer can easily walk from spot to spot on a golf course, practice field, or practice green. In a preferred embodiment, adjacent portions of the first and second sections  125   a ,  125   b  include a magnet therein such that the respective sections are may be firmly fixed together when the boom  125  is in the extended position (see  FIG. 3A ). The first section  125   a  preferably includes a catch such that the second section  125   b  can be locked in place in the folded position. 
       FIG. 4A  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid  400  according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. The foot mountable golfing aid  400  can include a foot attachment component  410  that is configured to be attached to a foot of a golfer during use, and a vertically adjustable reference component  420  that is supported by the foot attachment component  410 . The vertically adjustable reference component  420  is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a golfer&#39;s body in relation to a target when the foot mountable golfing aid  400  is attached to the foot of a golfer. The vertically adjustable reference component  420  can include a first end portion  421  pivotally attached to the foot attachment component  410  at a pivot  423 . The vertically adjustable reference component  420  can also include a second end portion  422  that is outward of the first end portion  421  such that the second end portion  422  may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component  420  around the first end portion  421 . The second end portion  422  preferably provides a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. 
     In an embodiment, the second end portion  422  can include one or more lasers (not shown) that provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer wherein the one or more lasers can be directed towards the ground and/or outwardly. For example, in an embodiment, the one or more lasers can be configured to illustrate a linear reference path on the ground wherein the reference path can be configured to be parallel to a desired target line of a stroke of a golfer. In a further embodiment, the one or more lasers can be located at any position on the foot mountable golfing aid  400 . 
     In an embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  420  can include a base  424  at the first end portion  421  of the vertically adjustable reference component  420 . The base  424  has an opening  426  in which a boom  425  that extends outwardly from the base  424  is located. Preferably, the opening  426  is a through opening that extends completely through a portion of the base  424 . The opening  426  preferably includes the boom  425  therein such that the boom  425  is movable within the opening  426  of the base  424  wherein the boom  425  may be movable among a retracted position, intermediate positions, and an extended position. In an embodiment, the boom  425  may be friction fit in the base  424  such that the position of the boom  425  may be finely adjusted within the base  424 . In a preferred embodiment, the opening  426  of the base can include at least one groove (not shown) wherein at least one rail (not shown) on the boom  425  is fitted in the groove such that the boom  425  is aligned in the base  424 , or in an alternate embodiment the base can include at least one rail that is fitted in a groove of the boom. 
     In an alternate embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  420  can include a boom  425  having a first end portion pivotally attached to the foot attachment component  410  and a second end portion outward of the first end portion. The second end portion may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component around the first end, wherein the second end portion provides the reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. In an alternative embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component can include a boom  425  that can have a first portion that is vertical or substantially vertical to the foot attachment component  410  and a second portion that extends horizontally from the first portion. The first section of the boom  425  in this embodiment may be extendable such that the vertical height of the boom may be increased or decreased. Likewise, the second section of the boom can be extendable such that the horizontal length of the boom may be increased or decreased. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 4A , the boom  425  can include a cross-bar  429  at the end thereof wherein the cross-bar  429  is configured to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. Preferably the cross-bar  429  extends perpendicular to the length of the boom  425 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  429  may be integral with the boom  425 , in an alternative embodiment, the cross-bar  429  may be attached to the end of the boom  425  with screws or the like. For example, the cross-bar  429  may include two pieces that each screw into the boom  425 , such that the cross-bar  429  may be removed. In a different embodiment, the cross-bar  429  can be a single piece that screws into the end of the boom  425 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  429  can include a level  441 , such as a bubble level or digital level, wherein the level may indicate the slope of the ground in which a golfer is standing. The level  441  can indicate to a golfer when the golfer needs to adjust ball position or their stance such as when a golf ball has an uneven lie in the fair way. Preferably the level  441  is at the center of the cross-bar  429 , however the level  441  can be included in any position on the golfing aid  400 . In an embodiment, the level  441  and/or the laser, as well as other electronic functions of the golfing aid  400 , can communicate with a golfer&#39;s cell phone via a cell phone application and blue tooth or the like. In this embodiment, the golf aid  400  includes the necessary electrical components such as a logic controller, power source, and the like. 
     In an embodiment, the cross-bar  429  can include a cross-bar extension member  471 . The cross-bar extension member  471  is operable to extend the length that the cross-bar  429  extends laterally outward from the boom  425 . The cross-bar extension member  471  can be made of a flexible or semi-rigid material, such as an elastomeric or rubber material. The cross-bar extension member  471  is formed of a material that is more flexible than the cross-bar  429  so as to provide a region of the foot mountable golfing aid  400  that can be repeatedly impacted by a golf club without causing damage to the golf club, or to the foot mountable golfing aid. 
     The cross-bar extension member  471  is preferably configured to attach and detach from an outer end of the cross-bar  429 . For example, the cross-bar extension member  471  can include a connection portion  472  (see  FIG. 4B ), and an extension portion  473  (see  FIG. 4B ) that extends outwardly from the connection portion  472 . In an embodiment, the connection portion can include an orifice  474  that receives an end of the cross-bar  429  such that the cross-bar extension member  471  may be attached to the cross-bar  429  via a friction fit. Alternatively, the connection portion  472  can be configured to screw into or on an end of the cross-bar  429 . In this manner, a golfer can select and attach different cross-bar extension members  471  that each have different respective dimensions to the cross-bar  429 , such as cross-bar extension members having extension portions of differing lengths. In an alternative embodiment, the cross-bar extension member  471  can be permanently affixed to an outer end of the cross-bar  429 .  FIG. 4B  shows a cross section of a cross-bar extension member  471  having a connection portion  472  and an extension portion  473  that extends outwardly from the connection portion. The connection portion  472  includes an orifice  474  operable to receive an end of the cross-bar  429 , such that the cross-bar extension member  471  may be attached to the cross-bar  429  and detached from the cross-bar  429 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar extension member  471  is generally cylindrical wherein the orifice  474  is coaxial with the extension portion  473 . In an alternative embodiment, the orifice  474  may be offset from the extension portion  473 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar extension member  471  can be cylindrical and configured to attach to an end of the cross-bar  429  wherein the radius of the connection portion  472  of the cross-bar extension member  471  is about equal to or less than the radius of the cross-bar  429 . 
     In an embodiment, the cross-bar can include a cross-bar counter weight  475 . The cross-bar counter weight  475  is operable to balance the cross-bar  429  of the foot mountable golfing aid  400  such that the cross-bar  429  remains parallel to the ground. Preferably, the cross-bar counter weight  475  provides a counter balance to a cross-bar extension member  471 , wherein the weight of the cross-bar counter weight is selected to correspond to the weight of the respective cross-bar extension member. 
     The cross-bar counter weight  475  is preferably configured to attach and detach from an outer end of the cross-bar  429 . The cross-bar counter weight  475  can include an orifice  476  (see  FIG. 4C ) that receives an end of the cross-bar  429  such that the cross-bar counter weight  475  may be attached to the cross-bar  429  via a friction fit. Alternatively, the cross-bar counter weight  475  can be configured to screw into or on an end of the cross-bar  429 . In this manner, a golfer can select and attach different cross-bar counter weights  475 , having differing weights, such that the weight of a respective cross-bar counter weight can correspond to that of a respective cross-bar extension members  471 . In an alternative embodiment, the cross-bar counter weight  475  can be permanently affixed to an outer end of the cross-bar  429 . 
       FIG. 4C  shows a cross section of a cross-bar counter weight  475  having an orifice  476 . In an embodiment, the orifice  476  can be a through hole that extends through the entire cross-bar counter weight  475 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar counter weight  475  is generally cylindrical wherein the orifice  476  is centered in an end of the cross-bar counter weight  475 . In an alternative embodiment, the orifice  476  may be offset from a central axis of the cross-bar counter weight  475 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar counterweight  475  can be cylindrical and configured to attach to an end of the cross-bar  429  wherein the radius of the cross-bar counterweight  475  is about equal to or less than the radius of the cross-bar  429 . 
     In an embodiment, the foot attachment component  410  can include a contoured plate  411  that is configured to fit against an upper portion of a foot or shoe of a golfer when attached to the foot of a golfer. Preferably, the contoured plate  411  is contoured such that the foot attachment component  410  can be attached to the left or right foot of golfer, however in a further embodiment, the contoured plate  411  can be contoured for a right foot of a golfer or a left foot of a golfer. The contoured plate  411  preferably includes openings  413  therein that receive straps (not shown) that are operable to attach the foot mountable golfing aid  400  to the foot of a golfer. The straps can be any type of straps that are operable to affix the foot mountable golfing aid  400  to the foot of a golfer such as straps that are tie-able, straps that are elastic, straps that include buckles, straps that include a tightening device, or straps that are velcro straps. The contoured plate  411  preferably includes a soft pad on a lower surface thereof, so as to provide cushioning between the foot attachment component  410  and the foot or shoe of a golfer. Furthermore, as the contoured plate  411  is preferably formed of plastic, the pad can reduce scuffing of a golfer&#39;s shoe during use of the foot mountable golfing aid  400 . 
     In an embodiment, an upper portion of the contoured plate  411  of foot attachment component  410  includes a rotatable turret  412  which supports the vertically adjustable reference component  420  such that the vertically adjustable reference component  420  may be horizontally rotated (or translated) about the rotatable turret  412 . The contoured plate  411  preferably also includes one or more cut outs  415  that preferably each extend between an upper and the lower surface of the contoured plate  411 . The one or more cutouts  415  are configured to increase the flexibility of the contoured plate, such that a golfer has increased flexibility during practice with the foot mountable golfing aid  400  and can also bend their toes during use. 
     In an embodiment, the foot attachment component  410  and/or the vertically adjustable reference component  420  include a locking mechanism  416  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component in place such that the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  420  may be fixed. During different types of swings such as a full swing or a putting stroke, the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  420  is preferably set to a desired position. Preferably, the locking mechanism  416  is a spring loaded lock, a tab in groove lock, or a tightenable fastener. In a preferred embodiment, the rotatable turret  412  includes a locking mechanism  417  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component  420  in place such that the horizontal position of the vertically adjustable reference component  420  may be fixed. Preferably, the locking mechanism  417  is a spring loaded lock, a tab in groove lock, or a tightenable fastener. 
     The vertically adjustable reference component  420  is preferably extendable such that the horizontal distance that an end portion of the vertically adjustable reference component  420  is from a golfer may be set. For example, the boom  425  is preferably a telescoping boom  425  having at least first and second sections wherein the second section can extend into and out of the first section. For example, the boom  425  preferably includes a first section  425   a , a second section  425   b , and a third section  425   c  wherein the third section  425   c  can telescope into the second section  425   b  and the second section  425   b  can telescope into the first section  425   a , or vice versa. In a preferred arrangement, the first section  425   a  can telescope into the base  424 . Preferably the first section  425   a , the second section  425   b , and/or the third section  425   c  include finger tabs  428  that aid a golfer in extending or retracting a respective section of the boom  425 . 
     In an embodiment a first section of the telescoping boom  425  can be hollow and can include at least one groove in the interior thereof, and the second section of the telescoping boom  425  can include at least one rail on an exterior thereof. In this embodiment the rail of the second section fits in the groove of the first section such that the second section is aligned with the first section and the second section may be telescoped into and out of the first section. Preferably, the first section comprises two grooves in the interior thereof and the second section comprises two corresponding rails on the exterior thereof. The rails of the second section preferably provide a friction fit in the respective grooves such that second section can be telescoped within the first section to a predetermined position. 
     In an embodiment, the foot mountable golfing aid  400  can include a movable ball marker (not shown) that allows a golfer to mark the position of a golf ball. In an embodiment, the cross-bar  429  and/or a portion of the boom  425  can include a position indicator  461  to indicate a relationship between a foot of a golfer and the position of a golf ball such that a golfer can consistently locate the ball at a proper position. In an embodiment, the position indicator  461  can include markings with predetermined angles, or alternatively the position indicator  461  can be a measurement device such as a ruler. 
       FIG. 5A  illustrates an embodiment of a foot attachment component  510  of a foot mountable golfing aid according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In this embodiment, a contoured plate  511  of the foot attachment component  510  is configured to fit against an upper portion of a foot of a golfer wherein the foot attachment component  510  is located between a golfer&#39;s foot and a golfer&#39;s shoe that the golfer is wearing. Preferably, the contoured plate  511  is contoured such that the foot attachment component  510  can be attached to the left or right foot of golfer, however in a further embodiment, the contoured plate  511  can be contoured for a right foot of a golfer or a left foot of a golfer. 
     In an embodiment, the contoured plate  511  can include openings therein that receive straps (not shown) that are operable to attach a foot mountable golfing aid to the foot of a golfer. The straps can be any type of straps that are operable to affix the foot mountable golfing aid to the foot of a golfer such as straps that are tie-able, straps that are elastic, straps that include buckles, straps that include a tightening device, or straps that are velcro straps. In this embodiment, a golfer preferably puts the foot attachment component  510  on his or her foot, and then inserts his or her foot in a shoe. The contoured plate  511  preferably includes a soft pad on a lower surface thereof, so as to provide cushioning between the foot attachment component  510  and the foot or shoe of a golfer. In the embodiment as shown in  FIG. 5A , the foot attachment component  510  includes supports  570  that extend downwardly from the contoured plate  511 , and are configured to extend past the respective sides of a golfer&#39;s foot.  FIG. 5B  shows a cross section of the foot attachment component  510  within a golfer&#39;s shoe  800 . As shown in  FIG. 5B , the supports  570  preferably contact and are supported on an upper surface  800  of a sole  801  within a golfer&#39;s shoe  802 . The contoured plate  511  is preferably configured such that the tongue (not shown) of the golfer&#39;s shoe extends over an upper surface thereof. In an embodiment, the contoured plate  511  can include a rail  571  that is received in a groove  803  in an inner surface of the golfer&#39;s shoe  802 , such that the foot attachment component  510  is fixed in the golfer&#39;s shoe  802 . Preferably, the groove  803  is in an upper inner surface of the golfer&#39;s shoe  802 . 
     In an embodiment, an upper portion of the contoured plate  511  of foot attachment component  510  includes a connection  573  that is operable to connect to a rotatable turret (not shown) which supports a vertically adjustable reference component according to embodiments described herein. The vertically adjustable reference component may be horizontally rotated (or translated) about the rotatable turret. The contoured plate  511  preferably also includes one or more cut outs (not shown) that preferably each extend between an upper and the lower surface of the contoured plate  511 . The one or more cutouts are configured to increase the flexibility of the contoured plate  511 , such that a golfer has increased flexibility during practice with the foot mountable golfing aid and can also bend their toes during use. 
       FIG. 6A  illustrates an embodiment of a foot mountable golfing aid  600  according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. The foot mountable golfing aid  600  can include a foot attachment component  610  that is configured to be attached to a shoe  802  of a golfer during use, and a vertically adjustable reference component  620  that is supported by the foot attachment component  610 . The vertically adjustable reference component  620  is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a golfer&#39;s body in relation to a target when the foot mountable golfing aid  600  is attached to the foot of a golfer. The vertically adjustable reference component  620  can include a first end portion  621  pivotally attached to the foot attachment component  610  at a pivot  623 . The vertically adjustable reference component  620  can also include a second end portion  622  that is outward of the first end portion  621  such that the second end portion  622  may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component  620  around the first end portion  621 . The second end portion  622  preferably provides a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. 
     In an embodiment, the second end portion  622  can include one or more lasers (not shown) that provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer wherein the one or more lasers can be directed towards the ground and/or outwardly. For example, in an embodiment, the one or more lasers can be configured to illustrate a linear reference path on the ground wherein the reference path can be configured to be parallel to a desired target line of a stroke of a golfer. In a further embodiment, the one or more lasers can be located at any position on the foot mountable golfing aid  600 . 
     In an embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  620  can include a base  624  at the first end portion  621  of the vertically adjustable reference component  620 . The base  624  has an opening  626  in which a boom  625  that extends outwardly from the base  624  is located. Preferably, the opening  626  is a through opening that extends completely through a portion of the base  624 . The opening  626  preferably includes the boom  625  therein such that the boom  625  is movable within the opening  626  of the base  624  wherein the boom  625  may be movable among a retracted position, intermediate positions, and an extended position. In an embodiment, the boom  625  may be friction fit in the base  624  such that the position of the boom  625  may be finely adjusted within the base  624 . In a preferred embodiment, the opening  626  of the base can include at least one groove (not shown) wherein at least one rail (not shown) on the boom  625  is fitted in the groove such that the boom  625  is aligned in the base  624 , or in an alternate embodiment the base can include at least one rail that is fitted in a groove of the boom. 
     In an alternate embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  620  can include a boom  625  having a first end portion pivotally attached to the foot attachment component  610  and a second end portion outward of the first end portion. The second end portion may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component around the first end, wherein the second end portion provides the reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. In an alternative embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component can include a boom  625  that can have a first portion that is vertical or substantially vertical to the foot attachment component  610  and a second portion that extends horizontally from the first portion. The first section of the boom  625  in this embodiment may be extendable such that the vertical height of the boom may be increased or decreased. Likewise, the second section of the boom can be extendable such that the horizontal length of the boom may be increased or decreased. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 4A , the boom  625  can include a cross-bar  629  at the end thereof wherein the cross-bar  629  is configured to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the foot mountable golfing aid is attached to the foot of a golfer. Preferably the cross-bar  629  extends perpendicular to the length of the boom  625 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  629  may be integral with the boom  625 , in an alternative embodiment, the cross-bar  629  may be attached to the end of the boom  625  with screws or the like. For example, the cross-bar  629  may include two pieces that each screw into the boom  625 , such that the cross-bar  629  may be removed. In a different embodiment, the cross-bar  629  can be a single piece that screws into the end of the boom  625 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  629  can include a level  641 , such as a bubble level or digital level, wherein the level may indicate the slope of the ground in which a golfer is standing. The level  641  can indicate to a golfer when the golfer needs to adjust ball position or their stance such as when a golf ball has an uneven lie in the fair way. Preferably the level  641  is at the center of the cross-bar  629 , however the level  641  can be included in any position on the golfing aid  600 . In an embodiment, the level  641  and/or the laser, as well as other electronic functions of the golfing aid  600 , can communicate with a golfer&#39;s cell phone via a cell phone application and blue tooth or the like. In this embodiment, the golf aid  600  includes the necessary electrical components such as a logic controller, power source, and the like. In an embodiment, the cross-bar  629  can include a cross-bar extension member  671  and/or cross-bar counter weight  675  as described with respect to  FIGS. 5A-5C . 
     In an embodiment, the foot attachment component  610  can include a contoured plate  611  and a golf aid shoe  802  wherein the contoured plate  611  is configured to attach to the golf aid shoe  802 . For example, the golf aid shoe  802  can include a contoured plate receptacle  804  that is operable to fixedly attach to the contoured plate  611 . In an embodiment, the contoured plate  611  can include rails that are configured to slide in corresponding grooves of the golf aid shoe  802 . Alternatively, the contoured plate  611  can be configured to snap into the contoured plate receptacle  804 . In an embodiment, the golf aid shoe  802  can be tightened on a golfer&#39;s foot via a Velcro strap  806 . In an alternative embodiment, the contoured plate  611  can include openings configured to receive shoe laces of the golf aid shoe  802 . The contoured plate  611  can include a soft pad on a lower surface thereof, so as to provide cushioning between the contoured plate  611  and the foot of a golfer. 
     In an embodiment, an upper portion of the contoured plate  611  of foot attachment component  610  includes a rotatable turret  612  which supports the vertically adjustable reference component  620  such that the vertically adjustable reference component  620  may be horizontally rotated (or translated) about the rotatable turret  612 . The contoured plate  611  can also include one or more cut outs (not shown) that preferably each extend between an upper and the lower surface of the contoured plate  611 . The one or more cutouts are configured to increase the flexibility of the contoured plate, such that a golfer has increased flexibility during practice with the foot mountable golfing aid  600  and can also bend their toes during use. 
     In an embodiment, the contoured plate  611  is operable to be removed from the golf aid shoe  800 . For example,  FIG. 6B  illustrates an embodiment of a vertically adjustable reference component  620  that is detached from a golf aid shoe  802  (see  FIG. 6C ). Alternatively, the contoured plate  611  can be permanently fixed to the golf aid shoe  802 . 
     In an embodiment, the foot attachment component  610  and/or the vertically adjustable reference component  620  include a locking mechanism  616  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component in place such that the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  620  may be fixed. During different types of swings such as a full swing or a putting stroke, the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  620  is preferably set to a desired position. Preferably, the locking mechanism  616  is a spring loaded lock, a tab in groove lock, or a tightenable fastener. In a preferred embodiment, the rotatable turret  612  includes a locking mechanism  617  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component  620  in place such that the horizontal position of the vertically adjustable reference component  620  may be fixed. Preferably, the locking mechanism  617  is a spring loaded lock, a tab in groove lock, or a tightenable fastener. 
     The vertically adjustable reference component  620  is preferably extendable such that the horizontal distance that an end portion of the vertically adjustable reference component  620  is from a golfer may be set. For example, the boom  625  is preferably a telescoping boom  625  having at least first and second sections wherein the second section can extend into and out of the first section. For example, the boom  625  preferably includes a first section  625   a , a second section  625   b , and a third section  625   c  wherein the third section  625   c  can telescope into the second section  625   b  and the second section  625   b  can telescope into the first section  625   a , or vice versa. In a preferred arrangement, the first section  625   a  can telescope into the base  624 . Preferably the first section  625   a , the second section  625   b , and/or the third section  625   c  include finger tabs  628  that aid a golfer in extending or retracting a respective section of the boom  625 . 
     In an embodiment a first section of the telescoping boom  625  can be hollow and can include at least one groove in the interior thereof, and the second section of the telescoping boom  625  can include at least one rail on an exterior thereof. In this embodiment the rail of the second section fits in the groove of the first section such that the second section is aligned with the first section and the second section may be telescoped into and out of the first section. Preferably, the first section comprises two grooves in the interior thereof and the second section comprises two corresponding rails on the exterior thereof. The rails of the second section preferably provide a friction fit in the respective grooves such that second section can be telescoped within the first section to a predetermined position. 
     In an embodiment, the foot mountable golfing aid  600  can include a movable ball marker (not shown) that allows a golfer to mark the position of a golf ball. In an embodiment, the cross-bar  629  and/or a portion of the boom  625  can include a position indicator  661  to indicate a relationship between a foot of a golfer and the position of a golf ball such that a golfer can consistently locate the ball at a proper position. In an embodiment, the position indicator  661  can include markings with predetermined angles, or alternatively the position indicator  661  can be a measurement device such as a ruler. In an additional embodiment, the cross-bar  629  can include a backswing rail  680  that is operable to limit the back swing of a golfer. The back swing rail  680  is preferably adjustable, and more preferably removable from the cross-bar  629 . 
       FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate an embodiment of a shin mountable golfing aid  700  according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. The shin mountable golfing aid  700  can include a shin attachment component  710  that is configured to be attached to a shin of a golfer during use, and a vertically adjustable reference component  720  that is supported by the shin attachment component  710 . The vertically adjustable reference component  720  is operable to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer, indicate a swing path, indicate a proper width of stance of a golfer, and/or aid in alignment of a golfer&#39;s body in relation to a target when the shin mountable golfing aid  700  is attached to the shin of a golfer. The vertically adjustable reference component  720  can include a first end portion  721  pivotally attached to the shin attachment component  710  at a horizontally rotating pivot  723  and a vertically rotating pivot  784 . The vertically adjustable reference component  720  can also include a second end portion  722  that is outward of the first end portion  721  such that the second end portion  722  may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component  720  around the first end portion  721  at the vertically rotating pivot  784 , and the second end portion  722  may be horizontally adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component  720  around the first end portion  721  at the horizontally rotating pivot  723 . The second end portion  722  preferably provides a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the shin mountable golfing aid is attached to the shin of a golfer. 
     In an embodiment, the second end portion  722  can include one or more lasers (not shown) that provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer wherein the one or more lasers can be directed towards the ground and/or outwardly. For example, in an embodiment, the one or more lasers can be configured to illustrate a linear reference path on the ground wherein the reference path can be configured to be parallel to a desired target line of a stroke of a golfer. In a further embodiment, the one or more lasers can be located at any position on the shin mountable golfing aid  700 . 
     In an embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  720  can include a base  724  at the first end portion  721  of the vertically adjustable reference component  720 . The base  724  has an opening  726  in which a boom  725  that extends outwardly from the base  724  is located. Preferably, the opening  726  is a through opening that extends completely through a portion of the base  724 . In an embodiment, the boom  725  may be friction fit in the base  724 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component  720  can include a boom  725  having a first end portion pivotally attached to the shin attachment component  710  and a second end portion outward of the first end portion. The second end portion may be vertically adjusted by rotating the vertically adjustable reference component around the first end, wherein the second end portion provides the reference path for a swing of a golfer when the shin mountable golfing aid is attached to the shin of a golfer. In an alternative embodiment, the vertically adjustable reference component can include a boom  725  that can have a first portion that is vertical or substantially vertical to the shin attachment component  710  and a second portion that extends horizontally from the first portion. The first section of the boom  725  in this embodiment may be extendable such that the vertical height of the boom may be increased or decreased. Likewise, the second section of the boom can be extendable such that the horizontal length of the boom may be increased or decreased. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the boom  725  can include a cross-bar  729  at the end thereof wherein the cross-bar  729  is configured to provide a reference path for a swing of a golfer when the shin mountable golfing aid is attached to the shin of a golfer. Preferably the cross-bar  729  extends perpendicular to the length of the boom  725 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  729  may be integral with the boom  725 , in an alternative embodiment, the cross-bar  729  may be attached to the end of the boom  725  with screws or the like. For example, the cross-bar  729  may include two pieces that each screw into the boom  725 , such that the cross-bar  729  may be removed. In a different embodiment, the cross-bar  729  can be a single piece that screws into the end of the boom  725 . In an embodiment, the cross-bar  729  can include a level (not shown), such as a bubble level or digital level, wherein the level may indicate the slope of the ground in which a golfer is standing. The level can indicate to a golfer when the golfer needs to adjust ball position or their stance such as when a golf ball has an uneven lie in the fair way. Preferably the level is at the center of the cross-bar  729 , however the level can be included in any position on the golfing aid  700 . In an embodiment, the level and/or the laser, as well as other electronic functions of the golfing aid  700 , can communicate with a golfer&#39;s cell phone via a cell phone application and blue tooth or the like. In this embodiment, the golf aid  700  includes the necessary electrical components such as a logic controller, power source, and the like. In an embodiment, the cross-bar can include a cross-bar extension member and/or cross-bar counter weight as described with respect to  FIGS. 5A-5C . 
     In an embodiment, the shin attachment component  710  can include a contoured plate  711  that is configured to fit against an outer portion of a shin of a golfer when attached to the shin of a golfer. Preferably, the contoured plate  711  is contoured such that the shin attachment component  710  can be attached to the left or right shin of golfer, however in a further embodiment, the contoured plate  711  can be contoured for a right shin of a golfer or a left shin of a golfer. The contoured plate  711  preferably includes openings  713  therein that receive straps  714  (see  FIG. 7A ) that are operable to attach the shin mountable golfing aid  700  to the shin of a golfer. The straps can be any type of straps that are operable to affix the shin mountable golfing aid  700  to the shin of a golfer such as straps that are tie-able, straps that are elastic, straps that include buckles, straps that include a tightening device, or straps that are velcro straps. The contoured plate  711  preferably includes a soft pad on a lower surface thereof, so as to provide cushioning between the shin attachment component  710  and the shin of a golfer. 
     The contoured plate  711  preferably also includes one or more cut outs  715  configured to increase the flexibility of the contoured plate, such that a golfer has increased flexibility during practice with the shin mountable golfing aid  700 . 
     In an embodiment, the shin attachment component  710  and/or the vertically adjustable reference component  720  include a locking mechanism  716  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component in place such that the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  720  may be fixed. During different types of swings such as a full swing or a putting stroke, the vertical height of the vertically adjustable reference component  720  is preferably set to a desired position. Preferably, the locking mechanism  716  is a spring loaded lock, a tab in groove lock, or a tightenable fastener. In a preferred embodiment, the rotatable turret  712  includes a locking mechanism  717  that is operable to lock the vertically adjustable reference component  720  in place such that the horizontal position of the vertically adjustable reference component  720  may be fixed. Preferably, the locking mechanism  717  is a spring loaded lock, a tab in groove lock, or a tightenable fastener. 
     The vertically adjustable reference component  720  is preferably extendable such that the horizontal distance that an end portion of the vertically adjustable reference component  720  is from a golfer may be set. For example, the boom  725  is preferably a telescoping boom  725  having at least first and second sections wherein the second section can extend into and out of the first section. For example, the boom  725  preferably includes a first section  725   a , a second section  725   b , and a third section  725   c  wherein the third section  725   c  can telescope into the second section  725   b  and the second section  725   b  can telescope into the first section  725   a , or vice versa. In a preferred arrangement, the first section  725   a  can telescope into the base  724 . Preferably the first section  725   a , the second section  725   b , and/or the third section  725   c  include finger tabs  728  that aid a golfer in extending or retracting a respective section of the boom  725 . 
     In an embodiment a first section of the telescoping boom  725  can be hollow and can include at least one groove in the interior thereof, and the second section of the telescoping boom  725  can include at least one rail on an exterior thereof. In this embodiment the rail of the second section fits in the groove of the first section such that the second section is aligned with the first section and the second section may be telescoped into and out of the first section. Preferably, the first section comprises two grooves in the interior thereof and the second section comprises two corresponding rails on the exterior thereof. The rails of the second section preferably provide a friction fit in the respective grooves such that second section can be telescoped within the first section to a predetermined position. 
     In an embodiment, the shin mountable golfing aid  700  can include a movable ball marker (not shown) that allows a golfer to mark the position of a golf ball. In an embodiment, the cross-bar  729  and/or a portion of the boom  725  can include a position indicator  761  to indicate a relationship between a foot or shin of a golfer and the position of a golf ball such that a golfer can consistently locate the ball at a proper position. In an embodiment, the position indicator  761  can include markings with predetermined angles, or alternatively the position indicator  761  can be a measurement device such as a ruler. In an additional embodiment, the cross-bar  729  can include a backswing rail (not shown) that is operable to limit the back swing of a golfer. The back swing rail is preferably adjustable, and more preferably removable from the cross-bar  729 . 
     While the foot mountable golfing aid has been described in detail with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made, and equivalents employed, without departing from the scope of the appended claims.