Patent Publication Number: US-11045707-B1

Title: Putting trainer

Description:
The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/283,056, filed Sep. 30, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,993,714. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/283,056 is continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/689,063, filed Apr. 17, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,457,254. The present application is based on and claims priority from these applications, the disclosures of which are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Described herein are a putting trainer and, more specifically, a convenient, pocket-sized, putting trainer that may be suitable for use on smooth surfaces. 
     Golf is a sport whose origins extend back many hundreds and possibly thousands of years. While it is known that the modern game of golf originated in Scotland during the 15th century, some claim the sport derives from the first century BC, when the Romans played a game called paganica, in which players tried to hit a stuffed leather ball with bent sticks. Other historians cite the Chinese game of chuiwan, played between the 8th and 14th centuries. Chuiwan means “to strike a small ball.” Other potential origins of golf include the games of cambuca (England), chambot (France), chaugan (Persia) and kolven (the Netherlands). 
     The first written record of the game of golf occurred in 1457 with the banning of the game by James II. In 1502, James IV lifted the ban and became a golfer himself. According to  The Scottish Golf Book , the ground on the east coast of Scotland was perfect for golf, with mile upon mile of links, as the land was known, gently undulating and covered in springy turf. The Musselburgh Links in East Lothian, Scotland, is certified by the  Guinness World Records  as the oldest golf course in the world. 
     The Society of St. Andrews Golfers, a local golf club playing at the links at St. Andrews, was founded in 1754. In 1764, St. Andrews reduced the number of holes on their golf course from 22 to 18. An 18 hole golf course soon became the standard for golf courses. 
     Two Scotsmen from Dunfermline, school friends John Reid and Robert Lockhart, are credited with introducing golf to the U.S. Robert Lockhart, while in Scotland, ordered six golf clubs and two dozen balls from a shop near St. Andrews to bring to his friend John Reid. John Reid, during an early February thaw in 1888, set up a three hole course in a cow pasture across from his house in Yonkers, N.Y. From these humble beginnings, Reid, with some friends, formed the St. Andrews Golf Club, the first in the United States and named after the famed Scottish golfing site. 
     The United States Golf Association (USGA), formed in 1894, is an association of golf courses, clubs, and facilities and is the governing body of golf for the United States and Mexico. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (the “R&amp;A”) is currently the ruling authority of golf throughout the world except the United States and Mexico. 
     Today, roughly 60 million players worldwide play golf, and golf is considered one of the most widely played sports in the world. In the U.S., 26 million people play golf at approximately 15,000 golf facilities. And the numbers of people playing golf are growing. Golfers today tend to be younger, with more women taking up the sport. 
     Golf, at its very core, involves hitting a golf ball, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,783,078, 4,921,255, and 5,020,803 (the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference), with a club, from a tee position to a greens position and into a cup. Golf is scored based on the total number of shots required to move the ball from the tee into the cup on the green. 
     As with any sport, golfers always want to improve their game. There are weight training programs directed to golfers. Instructional golf DVDs can be watched and golf books can be read. Magazines, from general interest publications such as  Golf Digest  or  Golf Magazine  to magazines that target a specific type of golfer such as  African American Golfer&#39;s Digest or Women  &amp;  Golf  can be subscribed to. All kinds of golf training aids can be purchased that help with every aspect of the golf game, everything from balls to tees, shoes to gloves, range finders and swing analyzers, bags and carts and clubs of all kinds, not to mention practice devices to help golfers drive, chip, and putt like a pro. According to the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA), consumers spend approximately $3.5 billion on golf equipment every year and the golf economy, including facility operations, golfer supplies, endorsements, tournaments, associations, charities, and golf course capital investment is estimated to be about $70 billion. 
     There are mechanical devices that have been patented that purport to help develop or improve a golfer&#39;s game. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,904,624 to Martinez (the “Martinez reference”) is directed to a golf putting training device that includes a “U” shaped grip support having a lower grip arm with strap for wrapping around a lower portion of a golf putter grip and an upper grip arm for engaging a butt end on an upper portion of the golf putter grip. The device engages the forearms of the golfer and locks the forearms in place to prevent movement during the putting stroke. Another example is U.S. Pat. No. 4,700,949 to Nottoli (the “Nottoli reference”) that is directed to a golf training device that includes a golf putter club, a guide rail, and a trolley that rolls on wheels engaged with the guide rail. The trolley includes hinge plates contacted together by hinge pins that allow a rocking action and a lifting action by the hinge plates, which in turn allow the club to move in an arc to stroke the ball in a straight line to a target. Yet another example is U.S. Pat. No. 3,951,414 to Nunez (the “Nunez reference”) that is directed to a device for aligning a golfer&#39;s dominant eye with a golf ball and cup. The Nunez device includes a mask that covers the golfer&#39;s non-dominant eye and has an opening therein located and sized for allowing the dominant eye to view both the ball and the cup. A weighted cord is attached to the mask in the line of sight of the dominant eye for enabling the dominant eye to be vertically aligned over or behind a golf ball for proper alignment in the act of putting. Another example is found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,882,267 to Roe (the “Roe reference”). The Roe golf putting trainer includes two parallel elongated members connected by a connecting member. A target is in a slidable relationship with the connecting member such that the target is positioned between the first elongated member and the second elongated member. The golfer must putt precisely or the putter blade will strike one or both of the elongated members. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,357,705 to Blanchard, U.S. Pat. No. 3,918,720 to Gordos, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,595,546 to Masters describe training devices that have a pair of spherical members (e.g. balls) joined by a flexible or rigid connecting rod. The goal of these and other similar devices is to provide an apparatus for practicing golf ball driving or putting. If the club head contacts one ball before it contacts the other ball, the devices will move in a curved line. However, if both balls are struck at precisely the same time, the ball members will move forward in a straight line. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,278,254 to Simjian and U.S. Pat. No. 4,494,757 to Simjian (jointly referred to as the “Simjian references”) describe devices that function in a manner similar to the pair of spherical members joined by a connecting rod. The Simjian references describe golf putting devices that include a set of wheels connected to an actual or simulated golf ball. When the outer wheels of the Simjian devices are struck simultaneously by a putter, the device is propelled forward along a straight path. If only one wheel of the device is struck by a putter, the device will be propelled along a curved path. 
     Another type of training device is a specially designed golf putter that has a club head or attachment with a recess sized and adapted to receive a golf ball. U.S. Pat. No. 6,634,955 to Middleton, U.S. Pat. No. 6,702,688 to Hale, U.S. Pat. No. 8,162,773 to Pingalore, U.S. Design Pat. No. D631,523 to Pingalore, all described devices that improve the putting stroke of a golfer using a putter as a training device. AccuRoll at InTheHoleGolf.com describes an alignment device that is affixed to the face of a putter and, by putting the golf ball inside the alignment device, the user receives feedback on his stroke path, as the ball will only be released straight towards the target if his putting is on the target line. Circle of Trust-Broken Tee Custom Golf, LLC describes a device that is attached to a putter and a golf ball is inserted into the hole in the center to assist in a straight putter stroke path. GolfTrainingAids.com&#39;s Square Triangle may be used to self-diagnose alignment tendencies and correct and improve a golfer&#39;s stroke, and Ever Square that helps train one&#39;s eye to line the putt up straighter. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Described herein are a putting trainer and, more specifically, a convenient, pocket-sized, putting trainer that may be suitable for use on smooth surfaces. 
     Described herein is a putting trainer for practicing golfing with a golf club with a head, the putting trainer for use on a generally smooth putting surface. The putting trainer has a body and at least one obstacle. The body has a plurality of sides, a top surface, and a bottom surface, at least the bottom surface being generally smooth. The obstacle is associated with at least part of one of the plurality of sides. Contacting the obstacle squarely with the head of the golf club causes the putting trainer to travel in a preferred forward direction, but contacting the obstacle off from square with the head of the golf club causes the putting trainer to travel in an undesired angle. 
     Preferred putting trainers are generally triangular, having at least three sides. The obstacle preferably protrudes from the one of the plurality of sides. 
     Preferred putting trainers have a cavity defined in the body. The cavity preferably intersects one of the plurality of sides to form an opening in the one of the plurality of sides. The obstacle preferably protrudes from the opening. If a golf ball is positioned at least partially within the cavity, the obstacle is part of the golf ball protruding from the opening in the one of the plurality of sides. 
     Preferred putting trainers have at least two obstacles, a first obstacle protruding from a first one of the plurality of sides, and a second obstacle protruding from a second one of the plurality of sides. The first obstacle may be a different type of obstacle than the second obstacle. The first obstacle may be a different size than the second obstacle. 
     The obstacle may be a removable and replaceable obstacle. The obstacle may be associated with an adapter that is, in turn removable and replaceable from the body. The putting trainer may be an adjustable putting trainer in which the obstacle can be adjusted to different extension distances. 
     One preferred putting trainer includes a body, a cavity defined in the body, and a protrusion obstacle. The body has a plurality of sides, a top surface, and a bottom surface. At least the bottom surface is generally smooth. The cavity preferably intersects with one of the plurality of sides to form an opening in the one of the plurality of sides. The protrusion obstacle protrudes from the opening in the one of the plurality of sides. Contacting the protrusion obstacle squarely with the head of the golf club causes the putting trainer to travel in a preferred forward direction, but contacting the protrusion obstacle off from square with the head of the golf club causes the putting trainer to travel in an undesired angle. 
     Another preferred putting trainer includes a generally triangular body and at least two protrusion obstacles. The generally triangular body has three sides, a top surface, and a bottom surface (which is generally smooth). A first protrusion obstacle protrudes from a first one of the sides. A second protrusion obstacle protrudes from a second one of the sides. Contacting one of the protrusion obstacles squarely with the head of the golf club causes the putting trainer to travel in a preferred forward direction, but contacting one of the protrusion obstacles off from square with the head of the golf club causes the putting trainer to travel in an undesired angle. 
     The subject matter described herein is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of this specification. Objectives, features, combinations, and advantages described and implied herein will be more readily understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings illustrate various exemplary putting trainers and/or provide teachings by which the various exemplary putting trainers are more readily understood. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary preferred use of the putting trainer whereby a golfer uses a golf club to contact a putting trainer squarely on its side, the contact sending the putting trainer traveling in the preferred forward direction towards a target at the end of a putting surface. 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of an exemplary preferred first putting trainer positioned in front of a golf club, the golf club contacting squarely with an obstacle associated with a side of the putting trainer, the square contact causing the putting trainer to travel in a preferred forward direction towards the target. 
         FIG. 3  is a top view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 2 , with the golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the right side of the obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a leftward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 2 , with the golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the left side of the obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a rightward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of an exemplary preferred second putting trainer positioned in front of a golf club, the golf club contacting squarely with a curved protrusion obstacle of a first side of the putting trainer, the square contact causing the putting trainer to travel in a preferred forward direction towards the target. 
         FIG. 6  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 5 , with a golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the right side of the curved protrusion obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a leftward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 5 , with a golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the left side of the curved protrusion obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a rightward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 8  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer positioned in front of a golf club, the golf club contacting squarely with an offset flat obstacle of a second side of the putting trainer, the square contact causing the putting trainer to travel in a preferred forward direction towards the target. 
         FIG. 9  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 8 , with a golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the right side of the offset flat obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a leftward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 10  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 8 , with a golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the left side of the offset flat obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a rightward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 11  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer positioned in front of a golf club, the golf club contacting squarely with a coextensive obstacle of a third side of the putting trainer, the square contact causing the putting trainer to travel in a preferred forward direction towards the target. 
         FIG. 12  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 11 , with a golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the right side of the coextensive obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a leftward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 11 , with a golf club contacting with the putting trainer on the left side of the coextensive obstacle such that the putting trainer travels in a rightward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
         FIG. 14  is a top perspective view of an exemplary preferred first putting trainer, the putting trainer shown as generally triangular with a cavity having a diameter sufficient to hold a golf ball, the triangular body having an optional sight line on the upper surface for lining up with the target. 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is a top view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is a bottom view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 18  is a front view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 19  is a back view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 20  is a first side view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer of  FIG. 14 , the second side view being a mirror image thereof. 
         FIG. 21  is a top perspective view of an exemplary preferred second putting trainer, the putting trainer shown as generally triangular, each side of the triangular body having an obstacle (shown as a curved protrusion obstacle, an offset flat obstacle, and a coextensive obstacle), the triangular body having optional sight lines on the upper surface for lining up with the target. 
         FIG. 22  is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 23  is a top view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 24  is a bottom view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 25  is a front view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 26  is a back view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 27  is a first side view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 21 , the shown side having an offset flat obstacle. 
         FIG. 28  is a second side view of the exemplary preferred second putting trainer of  FIG. 21 , the shown side having a curved protrusion obstacle. 
         FIG. 29  is a top perspective view of an exemplary preferred third putting trainer, the putting trainer shown as generally triangular, each side of the triangular body having an obstacle (shown as a small curved protrusion obstacle, a large curved protrusion, and a coextensive obstacle), the triangular body having optional sight lines on the upper surface for lining up with the target. 
         FIG. 30  is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary preferred third putting trainer of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 31  is a top view of the exemplary preferred third putting trainer of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 32  is a bottom view of the exemplary preferred third putting trainer of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 33  is a front view of the exemplary preferred third putting trainer of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 34  is a back view of the exemplary preferred third putting trainer of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 35  is a first side view of the exemplary preferred third putting trainer of  FIG. 29 , the shown side having a large curved protrusion obstacle. 
         FIG. 36  is a second side view of the exemplary preferred third putting trainer of  FIG. 29 , the shown side having a small curved protrusion obstacle. 
         FIG. 37  is a top perspective view of an exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer, the putting trainer having an associated mock golf ball (shown as a bolted on half of a golf ball), and the body having optional sight lines on the upper surface for lining up with the target. 
         FIG. 38  is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 39  is a top view of the exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 40  is a bottom view of the exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 41  is a front view of the exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 42  is a back view of the exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 43  is a first side view of the exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer of  FIG. 37 , the second side view being a mirror image thereof. 
         FIG. 44  is a top view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer without a golf ball shown therein. 
         FIG. 45  is a top view of the exemplary preferred fifth putting trainer that is similar to the first putting trainer, but having a first exemplary adapter positioned within the body of the fifth putting trainer. 
         FIG. 46  is a top view of the exemplary preferred fifth putting trainer with the first exemplary adapter positioned within the body of the fifth putting trainer, a golf ball (in phantom) positioned within the first adapter. 
         FIG. 47  is a top view of the exemplary preferred fifth putting trainer with the first exemplary adapter distal from the body of the fifth putting trainer, a golf ball (in phantom) positioned within the first adapter. 
         FIG. 48  is a top view of the exemplary preferred fifth putting trainer with a second exemplary adapter positioned within the body of the fifth putting trainer, a golf ball (in phantom) positioned within the second adapter. 
         FIG. 49  is a top view of the exemplary preferred fifth putting trainer with the second exemplary adapter distal from the body of the fifth putting trainer, a golf ball (in phantom) positioned within the second adapter. 
         FIG. 50  is a top view of the exemplary preferred sixth putting trainer with an adjustable cavity defined therein, a golf ball (in phantom) positioned within the cavity. 
         FIG. 51  is a top view of the exemplary preferred sixth putting trainer with an adjustable cavity defined therein, a spacer and a golf ball (in phantom) positioned within the cavity. 
     
    
    
     The drawing figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features or components herein may be shown in somewhat schematic form and some details of conventional elements may not be shown or described in the interest of clarity and conciseness. The drawing figures are hereby incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Described herein is a putting trainer that may be used to practice golf. The user  10  uses a golf club  20  to contact the putting trainer  30  (the generic “putting trainer  30 ” includes each of the described putting trainers  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 , and  600 ) as shown in  FIG. 1 . If the contact is “square” (correctly hit), the contact sends the putting trainer traveling in the preferred forward direction towards a target  50  at the end of a putting surface  40 . If the contact is not square (e.g. to the left or the right), the putting trainer travels at an undesired angle. Using an exemplary putting trainer  100  with a single obstacle,  FIG. 2  shows square contact and the results thereof and  FIGS. 3 and 4  show angled (incorrect) contact and the results thereof. Using an exemplary putting trainer  200  with three obstacles,  FIGS. 5, 8, and 11  show square contact and the results thereof and  FIGS. 6-7, 9-10, and 12-13  show angled (incorrect) contact and the results thereof. 
     Exemplary putting trainers may be better understood with reference to the drawings, but these putting trainers are not intended to be of a limiting nature. The same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and description in this document to refer to the same or like parts. The shown shapes and relative dimensions are preferred, but are not meant to be limiting unless specifically claimed, in which case they may limit the scope of that particular claim. 
     Definitions 
     Before describing the putting trainers  30  and the figures, some of the terminology should be clarified. Please note that the terms and phrases may have additional definitions and/or examples throughout the specification. Where otherwise not specifically defined, words, phrases, and acronyms are given their ordinary meaning in the art. The following paragraphs provide some of the definitions for terms and phrases used herein.
         The phrase “golf club” is generally meant to describe a device that is swung by a user to contact a predetermined object (e.g. a golf ball). In most cases, the device is a golf club including, but not limited to, putters, irons, and woods. The device may also be a specifically made training device that may be used in place of a traditional golf club. Devices for other sports or other purposes may also be used. For example, the device may be a hockey stick that is swung by a user to contact a hockey puck.   The phrase “putting surface” is generally meant to describe the surface upon which the putting trainer  30  will be used. The putting surface  40  is preferably a smooth surface (e.g. linoleum floors, wood floors, cement floors). Depending on the shape of the putting trainer  30 , the lower surface of the putting trainer  30 , the use of wheels or casters, and/or the material used to make the putting trainer  30  (and/or the legs thereof), the surface may not be perfectly smooth. The putting surface  40  may be a surface that just happens to be present (e.g. the kitchen floor), or a specially designed surface (e.g. the putting surface  40  shown in  FIG. 1 ).   The term “travel” (and variations thereof) is generally meant to describe the movement of the putting trainer  30 . The traveling may be sliding, gliding, skidding, or other type of movement. If the putting trainer  30  has wheels or castors, the traveling may be rolling. Although traveling is important, the putting trainer  30  should not travel too far or it would partially defeat its purpose of being able to show a trajectory, but not having to be chased after every practice contact. A regular golf ball would travel too much on a smooth surface necessitating the user to run after the ball each time he practiced a putt. The ideal traveling distance would depend on the intended use. For example, if used with a specially adapted putting surface  40 , the ideal traveling distance would be the distance to the target  50 . If the putting trainer  30  were used on a hardwood floor, the ideal traveling distance might be the distance a golfer could reach in a few steps (including using the golf club  20  for reach).   The term “target” is generally meant to describe a visual representation toward which the user is aiming the golf ball. Even if the target  50  is meant to represent a “cup” (golf hole), it does not have to be a hole. The target  50  may have a back stop or other structure that blocks the progression of the putting trainer  30 . The target may be a target that just happens to be present (e.g. a pattern on the floor or a cup turned on its side), or a specially designed target (e.g. the target  50  shown in  FIG. 1 ).   The term “contact” (and variations thereof) is generally meant to describe the connecting or interacting of the golf club and the putting trainer  30 . Contacting may be putting, tapping, hitting, pushing, bumping, or other type of connection or interaction. “Square contact” would be made if the head of the golf club is perpendicular to the imaginary line between the center of the golf ball and the center of the target  50 . If the contact is “square” (correctly hit), the contact sends the putting trainer  30  traveling in the preferred forward direction (straight trajectory) towards a target  50  at the end of a putting surface  40 . If the contact is not square (e.g. at an angle to the left or the right), the putting trainer  30  travels at an undesired angle. “Not square” can also be referred to as “off square” or “off center” contact.   The term “obstacle,” as used herein, is meant to convey a feature on the side of the putting trainer  30 . The type and size of the obstacle determines the difficulty of the putting trainer  30 . In some cases, the obstacle of a putting trainer  100  is a portion of a real golf ball (e.g.  FIGS. 14-20 ). In some cases, there are different types or shapes of obstacles on the putting trainer  200  (e.g.  FIGS. 21-28 ). In some cases, there are different sizes of obstacles on the putting trainer  300  (e.g.  FIGS. 29-36 ). In some cases, there is only a flat obstacle (a flat side) on the putting trainer  400  (e.g.  FIGS. 37-43 ).   The terms “protrude” and “protrusion” (and variations on these terms), as used herein, are meant to convey the idea of “extending beyond.” In the case of the protruding or protrusion obstacles, the obstacles extend beyond the side with which the extension is associated. How far a protrusion obstacle extends beyond the side is the extension distance (or just distance).   The term “associated” is defined to mean integral or original, retrofitted, attached, connected (including functionally connected), positioned near, and/or accessible by.   It should be noted that relative terms are meant to help in the understanding of the technology and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. Similarly, unless specifically stated otherwise, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are meant solely for purposes of designation and not for order or limitation. For example, the “first putting trainer” has no order relationship with the “fifth putting trainer.” For example, first side of the putting trainer  30  has no order relationship with the second or third sides of the putting trainer  30 .   It should be noted that some terms used in this specification are meant to be relative. For example, the term “top” (used herein in relation to the top surface of the putting trainer  30 ) is meant to be relative to the term “bottom” (used herein in relation to the bottom surface of the putting trainer  30 ). The term “front” is meant to be relative to the term “back,” and the term “side” is meant to describe a “face” or “view” that connects the “front” and the “back.” If the device was rotated, the terms would change accordingly. Rotation of the putting trainer  30  that changed the designation might change the terminology, but not the concept.   The terms “may,” “might,” “can,” and “could” are used to indicate alternatives and optional features and only should be construed as a limitation if specifically included in the claims. For example, the phrase “a single body may be used with different adapters or the cavity may be adaptable” indicates that it is optional to use adapters and it is optional to have an adaptable cavity. It should be noted that the various components, features, structure, or embodiments thereof are all “preferred” whether or not it is specifically indicated. Claims not including a specific limitation should not be construed to include that limitation.   Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “exemplary” is meant to indicate an example, representative, and/or illustration of a type. The term “exemplary” does not necessarily mean the best or most desired of the type. For example, “exemplary suitable materials” are just a few possible examples of the materials from which the putting trainer  30  may be constructed, but other suitable materials could be just as desirable.   It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the term “or” is used in its nonexclusive form (e.g. “A or B” includes A, B, A and B, or any combination thereof, but it would not have to include all of these possibilities). It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, “and/or” is used similarly (e.g. “A and/or B” includes A, B, A and B, or any combination thereof, but it would not have to include all of these possibilities). It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the terms “includes” and “has” mean “comprises” (e.g. a device that includes, has, contains, or comprises A and B, but optionally may contain C or additional components other than A and B). It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to one or more than one, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
 
First Putting Trainer
       

       FIGS. 14-20  show an exemplary preferred first putting trainer  100 . The putting trainer  100  is shown as having a generally triangular body  110  (e.g. having three sides) with a cavity  120  defined therein. The cavity  120  preferably has a diameter sufficient to hold a golf ball  130  at least partially therein. ( FIG. 44  is a top view of the exemplary preferred first putting trainer  100  without a golf ball  130  shown therein.) The body  100  may have at least one optional sight line  140  on the upper surface for lining up with the target  50 . 
     As set forth, the putting trainer  100  is shown as having a generally triangular body  110 . The shown putting trainer  100  has a front  112  (which is shown as a point or vertex), a back  114  (which is also referred to as a back side  114 ), and two sides  116  and  118  connecting the front  112  and the back  114 . This exemplary putting trainer  100  has only a single obstacle which, in this case is a portion of a golf ball  130  that protrudes from the back side  114 . 
     As set forth, a cavity  120  is defined in the triangular body  110  of the putting trainer  100 . The cavity  120  has a diameter just slightly smaller than the diameter of the golf ball  130  (which may be a standard golf ball  130  to allow the golfer to select a favorite golf ball) at a point of the body height to hold the golf ball  130  at the appropriate height. Depending on the thickness of the triangular body  110 , the cavity can be cylindrical or have walls that are angled slightly inward (i.e. like part of a conical cavity). In one preferred putting trainer  100 , the golf ball  130  sits so that its bottom is at or slightly above the level of the bottom surface of the triangular body  110 . The shown cavity is a through cavity, but there could be a “floor” (upon which the golf ball  130  could sit). Unlike some of the known prior art devices that allow a golf ball to escape through the bottom of a cavity to continue on, the cavity  120  is meant to contain the golf ball  130  and not allow it to escape. 
     The obstacle of the shown putting trainer  100  is the projection of the golf ball  130  through the opening  122  created by the cavity  120  intersecting the back side  144  of the body  110 . Put another way, a portion of the golf ball  130  extends through an opening  122  in the back side  114 . As shown, the golf ball  130  extends (projects) through an opening  122  in the back side  114  a distance  132  ( FIGS. 16 and 17 ). Alternative putting trainers could have larger extensions such that the distance  132  is larger. 
     Larger obstacles would generally be easier and smaller obstacles would generally be harder. Golfers might want to have several putting trainers  100 , each with a different distance  132  so that they can use the devices to practice as a novice or amateur golfer (largest protrusion obstacle), a casual or social golfer (a middle-sized protrusion obstacle), a scratch golfer (a middle-sized protrusion obstacle that was smaller than the protrusion for the casual or social golfer), and a pro golfer (smallest protrusion obstacle or no protrusion obstacle (i.e. a coextensive obstacle)). As will be discussed in relation to the fifth putting trainer  500  and sixth putting trainer  600 , a single body may be used with different adapters or the cavity may be adaptable. 
     The putting trainer  100  is shown as having at least one optional sight line  140  on the upper surface of the body  110 . The sight line  140  may be used for lining up the putting trainer  100  with the target  50 . Some golf balls have arrows, lines, or other indicators printed on their surfaces that indicate the best position to hit the ball and, if hit there, the direction that the ball will travel. These arrows, lines, or other indicators can be aligned with the sight line  140 . These arrows, lines, or other indicators can also be used for positioning the proper part of the golf ball as the protrusion obstacle to be contacted. 
     It should be noted that, although not shown with feet, the putting trainer  100  may include feet (or similar structure). Although shown as an isosceles triangle, the body  110  may be an equilateral triangle. The body  110  may have alternative shapes such as a polygon, arrow, or chevron. As mentioned, there may be a “floor” that encloses the bottom of the cavity  120 . Although the sides  116  and  118  are shown as flat, they could incorporate different types of obstacles including obstacles discussed elsewhere herein. 
     Second Putting Trainer 
       FIGS. 21-28  show an exemplary preferred second putting trainer  200 . The putting trainer  200  is shown as having a generally triangular body  210  (e.g. having three sides). Each side  214 ,  216 ,  218  of the triangular body  210  may have an obstacle (shown as an offset flat obstacle  250 , a curved protrusion obstacle  260 , and a coextensive obstacle (the flat back surface  214 )). The triangular body  210  may have optional sight lines  240 ,  242 ,  244  on the upper surface for lining up with the target  50 . 
     The putting trainer  200  is shown as having a generally equilateral triangular body  210 . The shown putting trainer  200  has a front  212  (which is shown as a point or vertex), a back  214  (which is also referred to as a back side  214 ), and two sides  216  and  218  connecting the front  212  and the back  214 . As shown, there is an upper surface (shown as having optional sight lines  240 ,  242 ,  244 ) and a lower surface (shown as having feet  270  thereon). 
     The obstacles of the shown putting trainer  200  are each associated with a separate side  214 ,  216 ,  218  of the triangular body  210 . The obstacles may be integral (molded or formed) with the putting trainer  200  or they may be removable and replaceable (not shown). If the obstacles are removable and replaceable, they could be attached using known structure including, but not limited to, friction (e.g. a perfect fit), mechanical means (e.g. screws or clamps), adhesives, magnets, or other attachment means known or yet to be discovered. If the obstacles are removable and replaceable, the user may be provided with obstacles of different shapes and sizes either to allow a progression of skill (e.g. obstacles for the golfer as he progresses from novice to pro) or to allow challenges for the golfer at his current level (e.g. different obstacles each designed for a casual golfer). The user may also be able to purchase replacement obstacles (e.g. as he improves or if the original obstacles are lost). 
     The shown putting trainer  200  has a first obstacle (shown as an offset flat obstacle  250 ) associated with a first side  216 . The offset flat obstacle  250  is a type of protrusion obstacle in that it protrudes from the side  216 . Although shown as an offset flat obstacle  250 , the first obstacle may be an alternative obstacle including, but not limited to, a bigger or smaller offset flat obstacle, any-sized curved protrusion obstacle, or any other obstacle known or yet to be discovered (including other obstacles described herein). 
     The shown putting trainer  200  has a second obstacle (shown as a curved protrusion obstacle  260 ) associated with a second side  218 . The curved protrusion obstacle  260  is a type of protrusion obstacle in that it protrudes from the side  218 . Although shown as a curved protrusion obstacle  260 , the second obstacle may be an alternative obstacle including, but not limited to, a bigger or smaller curved protrusion obstacle, any-sized offset flat obstacle, or any other obstacle known or yet to be discovered (including other obstacles described herein). 
     The shown putting trainer  200  has a flat back surface  214  which can be considered a third obstacle associated with the third or back side  214 . The flat back surface  214  is also referred to as a coextensive obstacle. The flat back surface  214  is not a protrusion obstacle. Although the putting trainer  200  is shown with a flat back surface  214 , alternative putting trainers could have a protrusion obstacle on the third side. 
     In addition to the described protrusion obstacles (e.g. curved protrusions or offset flat obstacles), other protrusion obstacles include, but are not limited to, triangular obstacles, pointed obstacles, or any other structure that protrudes from the majority of the face of the side. The position of the protrusion obstacles may also be adjusted (e.g. left or right, or higher or lower) depending on the skill to be learned by the golfer. The putting trainer  200  may have, for example, any combination of types of protrusion obstacles. 
     The putting trainer  200  is shown as having optional sight lines  240 ,  242 ,  244  on the upper surface of the body  210 . There are three sight lines  240 ,  242 ,  244  shown, each one starting generally from a side  214 ,  216 ,  218  and extending generally to the opposite point or vertex. The sight lines  240 ,  242 ,  244  may be used for lining up the putting trainer  200  with the target  50 . Some golf balls have arrows, lines, or other indicators printed on their surfaces that indicate the best position to hit the ball and, if hit there, the direction that the ball will travel. These arrows, lines, or other indicators can be aligned with the sight lines  240 ,  242 ,  244 . 
     The putting trainer  200  is shown as having optional feet  270  on the bottom surface of the body  210 . The feet  270  may be replaced with castors or wheels. If there are feet  270  associated with the lower surface of the body  210 , then the bottom of the feet  270  become the lower surface that should be generally smooth for traveling. 
     Third Putting Trainer 
       FIGS. 30-36  show an exemplary preferred third putting trainer  300 . The putting trainer  300  is shown as having a generally triangular body  310  (e.g. having three sides). Each side  314 ,  316 ,  318  of the triangular body  310  may have an obstacle (shown as a large curved protrusion obstacle  350 , a small curved protrusion obstacle  360 , and a coextensive obstacle (the flat back surface  314 )). The triangular body  310  may have optional sight lines  340 ,  342 ,  344  on the upper surface for lining up with the target  50 . 
     The putting trainer  300  is shown as having a generally equilateral triangular body  310 . The shown putting trainer  300  has a front  312  (which is shown as a point or vertex), a back  314  (which is also referred to as a back side  314 ), and two sides  316  and  318  connecting the front  312  and the back  314 . As shown, there is an upper surface (shown as having optional sight lines  340 ,  342 ,  344 ) and a lower surface (shown as having feet  370  thereon). 
     The obstacles of the shown putting trainer  300  are each associated with a separate side  314 ,  316 ,  318  of the triangular body  310 . The obstacles may be integral (molded or formed) with the putting trainer  300  or they may be removable and replaceable (not shown). If the obstacles are removable and replaceable, they could be attached using known structure including, but not limited to, friction (e.g. a perfect fit), mechanical means (e.g. screws or clamps), adhesives, magnets or other attachment means known or yet to be discovered. If the obstacles are removable and replaceable, the user may be provided with obstacles of different shapes and sizes either to allow a progression of skill (e.g. obstacles for the golfer as he progresses from novice to pro) or to allow challenges for the golfer at his current level (e.g. different obstacles each designed for a casual golfer). The user may also be able to purchase replacement obstacles (e.g. as he improves or if the original obstacles are lost). 
     The shown putting trainer  300  has a first obstacle (shown as a large curved protrusion  350 ) associated with a first side  316 . The large curved protrusion  350  is a type of protrusion obstacle in that it protrudes from the side  316 . Although shown as a large curved protrusion  350 , the first obstacle may be an alternative obstacle including, but not limited to, a bigger or smaller curved protrusion obstacle, any-sized offset flat obstacle, a coextensive obstacle, any other obstacle known or yet to be discovered (including other obstacles described herein). 
     The shown putting trainer  300  has a second obstacle (shown as a small curved protrusion  360 ) associated with a second side  318 . The small curved protrusion  360  is a type of protrusion obstacle in that it protrudes from the side  318 . Although shown as a small curved protrusion  360 , the second obstacle may be an alternative obstacle including, but not limited to, a bigger or smaller curved protrusion obstacle, any-sized offset flat obstacle, a coextensive obstacle, or any other obstacle known or yet to be discovered (including other obstacles described herein). 
     The shown putting trainer  300  has a flat back surface  314  which can be considered a third obstacle associated with the third or back side  314 . The flat back surface  314  is also referred to as a coextensive obstacle. The flat back surface  314  is not a protrusion obstacle. Although the putting trainer  300  is shown with a flat back surface  314 , alternative putting trainers could have a protrusion obstacle on the third side  314 . 
     In addition to the described protrusion obstacles (e.g. curved protrusions or offset flat obstacles), other protrusion obstacles include, but are not limited to, triangular obstacles, pointed obstacles, or any other structure that protrudes from the majority of the face of the side. The protrusion obstacles may be, for example, small, medium, or large protrusions. The position of the protrusion obstacles may also be adjusted (e.g. left or right, or higher or lower) depending on the skill to be learned by the golfer. The putting trainer  300  may have, for example, a single type of protrusion obstacle, but different sizes of the same type of protrusion obstacle. 
     Unlike the second putting trainer  200  which is shown as having obstacles of different shapes, the third putting trainer  300  is shown as having obstacles of different sizes. Larger obstacles would generally be easier to hit and smaller obstacles would generally be harder to hit. Having obstacles of different sizes allows a user to use the putting trainer  300  to practice at different levels. For example, the shown putting trainer  300  has a side/protrusion for the novice or amateur golfer (the large protrusion obstacle  350 ), a side/protrusion for the casual or social golfer, and a side/protrusion for the pro golfer (the coextensive obstacle). 
     The putting trainer  300  is shown as having optional sight lines  340 ,  342 ,  344  on the upper surface of the body  310 . There are three sight lines  340 ,  342 ,  344  shown, each one starting generally from a side  314 ,  316 ,  318  and extending generally to the opposite point or vertex. The sight lines  340 ,  342 ,  344  may be used for lining up the putting trainer  300  with the target  50 . Some golf balls have arrows, lines, or other indicators printed on their surfaces that indicate the best position to hit the ball and, if hit there, the direction that the ball will travel. These arrows, lines, or other indicators can be aligned with the sight lines  340 ,  342 ,  344 . 
     The putting trainer  300  is shown as having optional feet  370  on the bottom surface of the body  310 . The feet  370  may be replaced with castors or wheels. If there are feet  370  associated with the lower surface of the body  310 , then the bottom of the feet  370  become the lower surface that should be generally smooth for traveling. 
     Fourth Putting Trainer 
       FIGS. 37-43  show an exemplary preferred fourth putting trainer  400 . The putting trainer  400  is shown as having a generally polygonal body  410  with a mock golf ball  430  (shown as half of a real golf ball, but it could be a fake golf ball) associated with the top surface thereof. The body  400  may have at least one optional sight line  440  on the upper surface for lining up with the target  50 . (Line  442  is technically not a sight line, although it may be of assistance to the user.) As set forth, the putting trainer  400  is shown as having a generally polygonal body  410 . The shown putting trainer  400  has a front  412  (which is shown as a point or vertex), a back  414  (which is also referred to as a back side  414 ), and two sides  416  and  418  connecting the front  412  and the back  414 . It should be noted that sides  416  and  418  are not straight, but actually include two faces each. This exemplary putting trainer  400  has only a single obstacle which, in this case, is shown as a coextensive obstacle. 
     The shown mock golf ball  430  on the upper surface of the body  410  may be used to assist a golfer in picturing a golfing scenario. The shown mock golf ball  430  is shown as half of a real golf ball that is associated with the upper surface of the body  410 . This is shown as being accomplished by drilling a channel  432  and inserting a bolt  434  that extends through the channel  432  and into the mock golf ball  430 . Alternative connections include, but are not limited to, friction, other mechanical connections, adhesives, magnets, and other known or yet to be discovered means for connection. The mock golf ball may also be formed integrally with the body. Although shown as half of a real golf ball, the mock golf ball  430  could be a fake golf ball. Alternatively, the mock golf ball  430  can be replaced with novelty items. The upper surface of the body  410  may also be bare or decorated with ornamental decorations or advertising (e.g. a company logo). 
     The obstacle of the shown putting trainer  400  is a coextensive obstacle (the flat back surface  414 ). The coextensive obstacle could be replaced with alternative obstacles such as those described herein to a novice or amateur golfer, a casual or social golfer, a scratch golfer, and/or a pro golfer. As will be discussed in relation to the fifth putting trainer  500  and sixth putting trainer  600 , a single body may be used with different adapters or the cavity may be adaptable. 
     The putting trainer  400  is shown as having at least one optional sight line  440  on the upper surface of the body  410 . The sight line  440  may be used for lining up the putting trainer  400  with the target  50 . Some golf balls have arrows, lines, or other indicators printed on their surfaces that indicate the best position to hit the ball and, if hit there, the direction that the ball will travel. These arrows, lines, or other indicators can be aligned with the sight line  440 . 
     It should be noted that, although not shown with feet, the putting trainer  400  may include feet (or similar structure). The body  410  may have alternative shapes such as triangular, arrow, or chevron. 
     Fifth Putting Trainer 
       FIGS. 45-49  show an exemplary preferred fifth putting trainer  500  that is similar to the first putting trainer  100 , but having exemplary adapters  580  and  582  that are removable and replaceable from the body  510  of the fifth putting trainer  500 . One advantage of fifth putting trainer  500  is that it allows a user to purchase a single body  510 , but have the ability to change the adapters  580  and  582  for a challenge or to adjust for his ability. 
     The putting trainer  500  is shown as having a generally triangular body  510  (but it could have other shapes including, for example, the polygonal shape of the fourth putting trainer  400 ). The shown putting trainer  500  has a front  512  (which is shown as a point or vertex), a back  514  (which is also referred to as a back side  514 ), and two sides  516  and  518  connecting the front  512  and the back  514 . This exemplary putting trainer  500  has only a single obstacle which, in this case is a portion of a golf ball  530  that protrudes from the back side  514 . It should be noted that the adapter system could be used on multiple sides, not just a single side, if the body  510  was large enough. 
       FIG. 45  shows the putting trainer  500  with the first adapter  580  positioned within the recess  570  of the body  510 .  FIG. 46  shows the putting trainer  500  with the first adapter  580  positioned within the recess  570  of the body  510 , and the golf ball  530  (in phantom) positioned within the cavity  520  of the first adapter  580 . When assembled, the protrusion protrudes (sticks out) a first distance (shown as  534 ) from the back side  514 .  FIG. 47  shows the putting trainer  500  with the first adapter  580  distal from the body  510  and the golf ball  530  (in phantom) positioned within the cavity  520  of the first adapter  580 . The first adapter  580  may be secured within the recess  570  of the body  510  using friction (e.g. a perfect fit), mechanical means (e.g. screws or clamps), adhesives, magnets, or other attachment means known or yet to be discovered. 
       FIG. 48  shows the putting trainer  500  with the second adapter  582  positioned within the recess  570  of the body  510 , and the golf ball  530  (in phantom) positioned within the cavity  520  of the second adapter  582 . When assembled, the protrusion protrudes (sticks out) a second distance (shown as  536 ) from the back side  514 .  FIG. 49  shows the putting trainer  500  with the second adapter  582  distal from the body  510  and the golf ball  530  (in phantom) positioned within the cavity  520  of the second adapter  582 . The second adapter  582  may be secured within the recess  570  of the body  510  using friction (e.g. a perfect fit), mechanical means (e.g. screws or clamps), adhesives, magnets, or other attachment means known or yet to be discovered. 
     Although both the first adapter  580  and the second adapter  582  fit into the recess  570  of the body  510 , the adapters  580 ,  582  are constructed so that the obstacles protrude at different distances  534 ,  536 . Additional adapters could be constructed that have alternative obstacles that protrude at still different distances. Additional adapters could be constructed that have alternative obstacles of different shapes and sizes. 
     It should be noted that, although shown as having a golf ball  530  that is removable and replaceable from a cavity  520  (similar to the first putting trainer  100 ), the exemplary adapters  580  and  582  could have a flat upper surface and integral obstacles (e.g. offset flat obstacles, curved protrusion obstacles, or other obstacles discussed herein). The upper surface may have a mock golf ball (similar to putting trainer  400 ). 
     It should be noted that, once in position, the adapters  580  and  582  can be considered to be part of the body  510  such that a cavity  520  defined in an adapter  580 ,  582  can be considered to be part of the body  510 . 
     Sixth Putting Trainer 
       FIGS. 50-51  show an exemplary preferred sixth putting trainer  600  that is similar to the first putting trainer  100 , but allows adjustment of the protrusion using a spacer  690 . This putting trainer  600  can be described as an adjustable putting trainer. One advantage of sixth putting trainer  600  is that it allows a user to purchase a single body  610 , but have the ability to change the spacer  690  for a challenge or to adjust for his ability. 
     The putting trainer  600  is shown as having a generally triangular body  610  (but it could have other shapes including, for example, the polygonal shape of the fourth putting trainer  400 ). The shown putting trainer  600  has a front  612  (which is shown as a point or vertex), a back  614  (which is also referred to as a back side  614 ), and two sides  616  and  618  connecting the front  612  and the back  614 . This exemplary putting trainer  600  has only a single obstacle which, in this case is a portion of a golf ball  630  that protrudes from the back side  614 . It should be noted that the adjustment system could be used on multiple sides, not just a single side, if the body  610  was large enough. 
       FIG. 50  shows the putting trainer  600  with the golf ball  630  (in phantom) positioned within the recess  670  of the body  610 . Fingers  622  hold the golf ball  630  within the recess  670 . The fingers  622  may have flex mechanisms and/or hinges  624  that have sufficient resistance to retain the golf ball  630  substantially within the recess  670 . When assembled, the golf ball  630  protrudes (sticks out) a first distance from the back side  614 . 
       FIG. 51  shows the putting trainer  600  with a spacer  690  and the golf ball  630  (in phantom) positioned within the recess  670  of the body  610 . Fingers  622  hold the golf ball  630  within the recess  670 , but the spacer forces the fingers  622  outward to allow the golf ball  630  to protrude further. When assembled with the spacer  690 , the golf ball  630  protrudes (sticks out) a second distance from the back side  614 . 
     Using different spacers, a user could adjust the distance of the protrusion of the golf ball  630  to the desired distance. It should be noted that the spacer  690  may be adjustable (e.g. inflatable) so that multiple spacers are not necessary. 
     Materials 
     Preferred putting trainers  30  are preferably able to slide, glide, or skid on at least smooth putting surfaces  40 . The “smoother” the putting trainer  30  (or at least the bottom surface thereof), the better the putting trainer  30  will slide. Similarly, the “smoother” the putting surfaces  40 , the better the putting trainer  30  will slide. Although sliding is important, the putting trainer  30  should not slide too far or it would partially defeat its purpose of being able to show a trajectory, but not having to be chased after every practice contact. 
     The phrase “coefficient of friction” (COF) describes the relationship between the force of friction between two objects and the normal force between those objects. There is a preferred coefficient of friction. The COF depends significantly on the materials of both the putting trainer  30  and the putting surface  40 . COFs range from near zero to greater than one. Because preferred putting trainers  30  can be used on a variety of putting surfaces  40  (including those present and available wherever the golfer might choose to practice), a relatively smooth putting trainer  30  (or at least the bottom surface thereof) will be preferred to keep the COF between the putting trainer  30  and the putting surface  40  ideal. If the putting trainers  30  and the putting surface  40  are sold together, the putting trainer  30  (or at least the bottom surface thereof) may be not quite as smooth because the smoothness of the putting surface  40  can be adjusted to keep the ideal COF between the putting trainer  30  and the putting surface. 
     The entire putting trainer  30  or just the bottom surface of the putting trainer  30  may be made of suitable materials. Exemplary suitable materials with which the putting trainers  30  may be made include, but are not limited to, plastics (e.g. those having low COFs, such as phenolics, acetals, Teflon® (PTFE), ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), and nylon), acrylics, metal (e.g. brass, bronze, copper, steel, tin, zinc), glass, graphite, wood, and any other “smooth” material. The body of the putting trainer  30  and/or bottom surface of the body can be coated with suitable material so that the appropriate surface is smooth. For example, coatings such as an electroless nickel infused with Teflon® (Surface Technology, Inc. in Trenton, N.J.) of Delrin® 500 AF (a Teflon® fiber filled resin created by DuPont), can be added to the bottom of a putting trainer  30  made from other materials. Felt, graphite, wax, glazes (including crystalline oxide layer glaze), oils, greases, and other smoothing coatings or substances known or yet to be discovered can be used to create the smooth surface. 
     Instead of (or in addition to) the putting trainer  30 , feet may be added that have a suitable smooth texture. Exemplary feet are shown in association with some of the shown putting trainers  30 . These feet may be the same suitable materials discussed above. If there are feet associated with the lower surface of the putting trainer  30 , then the bottom of the feet become the lower surface that should be generally smooth for traveling. 
     The friction sliders and glides made of plastic and felt, such as those used to move furniture, can be added to the bottom of various materials to decrease the COF. U.S. Pat. No. 1,988,377 to Fruchter (the “Fruchter reference”) disclosed a glide for furniture legs, that is a single piece of material with a fibrous pad secured to the underside of the glide. U.S. Pat. No. 5,573,212 to Palazzolo (the “Palazzolo reference”) is directed to a glide block for moving loads, and more specifically, glide blocks for moving furniture, that are provided with a cup of synthetic material coming in contact with the floor. Other sliders, such as the self-adhesive plastic Magic Sliders®, can be purchased via the Internet at www.magicsliders.com. Master Caster Company has the Master Caster® Mighty Might Furniture Sliders, made of a polymer plastic, among other products in their product line. 
     Using an Obstacle Putting Trainer 
     Using an exemplary putting trainer  100  with a single obstacle,  FIG. 2  shows square contact and the results thereof, and  FIGS. 3 and 4  show angled (incorrect) contact and the results thereof. As shown in  FIG. 2 , if the golf club  20  contacts squarely with an obstacle associated with a side of the putting trainer  100 , the square contact causes the putting trainer  100  to travel in a preferred forward direction (straight trajectory) towards the target  50 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , if the golf club  20  contacts the putting trainer  100  on the right side of the obstacle (shown as a portion of the golf club  20  head toward the toe end making contact), the putting trainer  100  travels in a leftward direction, which is not the preferred direction. As shown in  FIG. 4 , if the putting trainer  100  golf club  20  contacts the putting trainer  100  on the left side of the obstacle (shown as a portion of the golf club  20  head toward the heel end making contact), the putting trainer  100  travels in a rightward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
     Using an exemplary putting trainer  200  with three different obstacles, each obstacle has its own difficulty level or challenge, but the result is the same.  FIGS. 5, 8, and 11  show square contact and the results thereof, and  FIGS. 6-7, 9-10, and 12-13  show angled (incorrect) contact and the results thereof. As shown in  FIGS. 5, 8, and 11 , if the golf club  20  contacts squarely with an obstacle associated with a side of the putting trainer  200 , the square contact causes the putting trainer  200  to travel in a preferred forward direction (straight trajectory) towards the target  50 . As shown in  FIGS. 6, 9, and 12 , if the golf club  20  contacts the putting trainer  200  on the right side of the obstacle (shown as a portion of the golf club  20  head toward the toe end making contact), the putting trainer  200  travels in a leftward direction, which is not the preferred direction. As shown in  FIGS. 7, 10, and 13 , if the putting trainer  200  golf club  20  contacts the putting trainer  200  on the left side of the obstacle (shown as a portion of the golf club  20  head toward the heel end making contact), the putting trainer  200  travels in a rightward direction, which is not the preferred direction. 
     It is to be understood that the inventions, examples, and embodiments described herein are not limited to particularly exemplified materials, methods, and/or structures. It is to be understood that the inventions, examples, and embodiments described herein are to be considered preferred inventions, examples, and embodiments whether specifically identified as such or not. The shown inventions, examples, and embodiments are preferred, but are not meant to be limiting unless specifically claimed, in which case they may limit the scope of that particular claim. 
     All references (including, but not limited to, foreign and/or domestic publications, patents, and patent applications) cited herein, whether supra or infra, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     The terms and expressions that have been employed in the foregoing specification are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and are not intended to exclude equivalents of the features shown and described. While the above is a complete description of selected embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to practice the invention using various alternatives, modifications, adaptations, variations, and/or combinations and their equivalents. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement that is calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiment shown. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention that, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.