Patent Publication Number: US-2016220884-A1

Title: Golf swing trainer and development

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/110,391, filed on Jan. 30, 2015. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not applicable. 
     FIELD OF THE APPLICATION 
     The application relates generally to golf swing development. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE APPLICATION 
     To date, various training devices have been developed in the field of athletics aimed at teaching and improving golf swing mechanics. Unfortunately, any one training device does not benefit those coaches, instructors and athletes who do not agree with the swing mechanics and/or philosophy on which that particular training device is devised. What one individual may consider as “proper mechanics,” “proper swing technique,” “proper swinging form,” “proper swing path,” etc., may be considered improper by someone else. For example, various golf swing instructors have differing philosophies regarding proper swing path, proper balance, proper backswing, proper hip rotation, proper grip, proper approach, proper follow through and the proper overall synchronization of the human body during the swinging motion necessary to maximize an athlete&#39;s ability to strike a golf ball as desired. Thus, known training devices have been developed based on a particular inventor&#39;s personal concept of “proper” body mechanics, swing path, etc. 
     A need exists for a training technique that addresses Applicant&#39;s own individual philosophy regarding addressing proper swinging mechanics for golfers and the development thereof. 
     SUMMARY OF THE APPLICATION 
     The application is directed to a golf swing training apparatus comprising a first upright planar barrier and a second upright planar barrier set apart from the first upright planar barrier providing a training area there between for an individual to be located and swing a golf club; and the first upright planar barrier and the second upright planar barrier each having surface areas effective to intercept a swinging golf club along the entire arc of an individual golf swing when a golf club swung by the individual travels in space along one or more undesired points on X, Y and Z axes within the training area. 
     The application is also directed to a golf swing training apparatus comprising a first upright barrier and a second upright barrier defined by planes substantially parallel to a coronal plane of an individual using the apparatus, wherein the second vertical barrier is set apart from the first vertical barrier providing a training area there between for an individual to be positioned when swinging a golf club; with the individual having a desired golf swing arc directed between out in front and back behind the individual&#39;s coronal plane unhindered by the first and second upright barriers, the first and second upright barriers being operationally configured to intercept a golf club swung along an undesired golf swing arc at one or more points out in front and behind the coronal plane of the individual performing the golf swing. 
     The application is also directed to a golf swing practice method including (1) providing a golf swing training apparatus comprising (a) a first vertical barrier having a planar surface; (b) a second vertical barrier having a planar surface set apart from the first vertical barrier; and (c) a base for supporting the first and second vertical barriers in upright positions, the first and second vertical barriers and the base providing a defined training area for an individual to be located to swing a golf club; and (2) with an individual positioned in the training area and oriented so that the planar surfaces of the first and second vertical barriers are parallel with a coronal plane of the individual, the individual swinging a golf club according to his/her natural golf swing mechanics, whereby contact of the golf club with either of the first and second vertical barriers when performing the golf swing informs the individual of an undesired swing path. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 3  is a side perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 4  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 6  is a top view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 7  is a front view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 8  is a front view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 9  is a front view of a simplified embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 10A  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 10B  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 11A  is a simplified side view illustrating an exemplary circular pattern or arc of a golf swing. 
         FIG. 11B  is a simplified top view illustrating an exemplary circular pattern or arc of a golf swing. 
         FIG. 11C  is a simplified front perspective view illustrating an exemplary swing plane during the backswing of the golf swing. 
         FIG. 11D  is a simplified front perspective view illustrating an exemplary swing plane during the downswing of the golf swing. 
         FIG. 11E  a simplified front perspective view illustrating an exemplary swing plane during the follow through of the golf swing. 
         FIG. 11F  is a simplified front side view illustrating the arc of a golf swing. 
         FIG. 11G  is a simplified rear side view illustrating the arc of a golf swing. 
         FIG. 11H  is a simplified view of a first vertical barrier. 
         FIG. 11I  is a simplified view of a second vertical barrier. 
         FIG. 12  is a simplified back view of a golfer at an address position. 
         FIG. 13A  is a simplified back view illustrating a backswing of a standard slot swing. 
         FIG. 13B  is a simplified back view illustrating a downswing of a standard slot swing. 
         FIG. 14A  is a simplified back view illustrating a backswing of a single plane slot swing. 
         FIG. 14B  is a simplified back view illustrating a downswing of a single plane slot swing. 
         FIG. 15A  is a simplified back view illustrating a backswing of a reverse slot swing. 
         FIG. 15B  is a simplified back view illustrating a downswing of a reverse slot swing. 
         FIG. 16  is a simplified back view illustration depicting various swing planes according to the type of golf club being swung or according to the length of the golf club being swung. 
         FIG. 17  is a simplified back view illustrating the take away portion of a backswing. 
         FIG. 18A  is a simplified back view illustrating the take away portion of a backswing. 
         FIG. 18B  is a simplified back view illustrating the take away portion of a backswing. 
         FIG. 19  is a simplified top view depicting various club head swing paths that may be performed during the downswing portion of a golf swing. 
         FIG. 20  is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using an embodiment of the trainer with the golfer at an address position. 
         FIG. 21  is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using an embodiment of the trainer with the golfer at the top of the backswing. 
         FIG. 22  is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using an embodiment of the trainer with the golfer performing the downswing. 
         FIG. 23  is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using an embodiment of the trainer with the golfer in a follow through position. 
         FIG. 24  is a simplified back view illustrating a golfer using an embodiment of the trainer with the golfer in a finish position of the follow through. 
         FIG. 25  is a simplified back perspective view showing the club head path of an in-to-in golf swing. 
         FIG. 26  is a simplified back perspective view showing the club head path of an out-to-in golf swing. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before describing the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the present apparatus, system and method are not limited to particular embodiments. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “muscle memory” refers to the process by which an individual&#39;s neuromuscular system memorizes motor skills, such as those motor skills related to Applicant&#39;s own philosophy regarding proper golf swing mechanics. For simplicity, the golf swing will be described herein with reference to a right handed golfer. The abbreviation “PW” stands for pitching wedge and the abbreviation “SW” stands for sand wedge as understood by the skilled artisan. 
     It has been discovered that persons may practice the golf swing and receive instant feedback as to an undesired golf swing without the aid of an observer and without having to define the golf swing according to a particular swing path. Thus, in one aspect the application provides an apparatus, system and method for developing muscle memory in relation to developing a person&#39;s golf swing. In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus, system and method for developing muscle memory in relation to reprogramming a person&#39;s golf swing. The apparatus may be of light weight construction allowing for portability of the apparatus. As such, the apparatus may be provided with one or more handles, grips, shoulder straps, and combinations thereof, allowing one or more individuals to hold and carry the apparatus. 
     In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus, system and method for developing or practicing the golf swing for both right handed golfers and left handed golfers. 
     In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system for developing or practicing the golf swing that is of light weight durable construction for ease of transport by one or more persons. The apparatus and system of this application may also include one or more wheels for transport purposes. 
     In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system for developing or practicing the golf swing that is operationally configured to provide instant feedback as to undesired body motion and/or an undesired path of the golf club head and/or shaft when performing the golf swing. 
     In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system for developing or practicing the golf swing operationally configured for use in a home, building or other area such as a standard size garage of a home. 
     In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus for developing or practicing the golf swing that may be adapted for use by different size individuals. 
     In another aspect, the application provides a system for developing or practicing the golf swing that may be adapted for use by different size individuals. 
     In another aspect, the application provides an apparatus and system for developing or practicing the golf swing including a hitting surface for striking golf balls with a golf club, wherein the hitting surface materials or hitting surface configuration may be altered as desired to provide varying hitting surfaces for practicing the golf swing according to various types of clubs, e.g., woods and irons, as these terms are understood by the skilled artisan in the game of golf. 
     With reference now to the simplified illustration of  FIG. 1 , in a first embodiment the training apparatus  10  (or “trainer”) may include a first vertical barrier  100  and a second vertical barrier  200  set apart from the first vertical barrier  100  providing a training area  300  there between for an individual to stand and swing a golf club. As  FIG. 1  shows, the trainer  10  may include a one piece construction including a substantially horizontal planar training area platform  301  disposed between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200 , which extend out from the platform  301  vertically at about ninety (90.0) degrees relative to the surface of the platform  301 . The first and/or the second vertical barrier  100 ,  200  may also extend out from the platform  301  at angles other than ninety degrees as desired. 
     In another embodiment, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be releasably secured to the training area platform  301 , e.g., male members of the barriers  100 ,  200  may be (1) held in place via female members of the training area platform  301 , or vice versa, (2) held in place via bolts, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be secured to a perimeter framework of the training area  300 . The first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may also include one or more base members, braces, legs, and combinations thereof for holding or maintaining the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  in upright positions during trainer  10  usage along opposing sides of the training area platform  301 . In still another embodiment including a trainer  10  having a one-piece construction, the first vertical barrier  100  and/or the second vertical barrier  200  may include a plurality of hinged, perforated, or foldable sections allowing one or more sections to be folded down vertically onto other lower sections as desired. As an example, one suitable foldable vertical barrier  100 / 200  may be foldable along a perforated seams running horizontally along the barrier  100 / 200 . 
     In another embodiment as shown in  FIG. 2 , the trainer  10  may be provided as an assembly of component parts. For example, the trainer  10  may include frame members  12  and joints  14  or couplings there between operationally configured to cooperatively form the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  and training area  300 . In one embodiment, the frame members  12  may include tubular sections. In another embodiment, the frame members  12  may include multi-sided sections. The joints  14  are suitably operationally configured to receive the frame members  12  in releasable or permanent attachment thereto as desired. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , an embodiment of the trainer  10  may include at least four base frame members  12 A- 12 D, at least four rising frame members  12 E- 12 H and at least two longitudinal frame members  12 I- 12 J. In another embodiment, at least one frame member  12  may comprise a plurality of smaller sectional members for forming a whole frame member for trainer  10  construction. In this particular embodiment, the trainer  10  may also include four ninety degree elbow joints  14 A and four three-way joints  14 B. Straight joints or couplings may be used to connect a plurality of smaller sectional members as described above. 
     As the trainer  10  of  FIG. 1  illustrates, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be of solid construction. Likewise, the training area  300  may including a ball striking surface of solid construction or include a training area platform  301  of solid construction effective for persons to stand atop the surface within the training area  300  for purposes of performing the golf swing. Without limiting the training area  300  or training area platform  301  to a particular material of construction, suitable materials may include non-destructive golf club and/or contact surface materials providing non-destructive surface contact of a golf club head and/or surface when the training area platform  301  is struck by the head of a golf club. Suitable non-destructive ball striking surfaces of the training area  300  may include, but are not necessarily limited to wood surfaces, carpeted surfaces, rubber surfaces, artificial grass surfaces, plastic surfaces, surfaces constructed from one or more composite materials, and combinations thereof. Likewise, the training area  300  may include a game condition ball striking surface for example, a natural grass surface of a desired kind, height and thickness, a sand surface, a dirt surface, and combinations thereof. In one particular embodiment, the ball striking surface of the training area  300  may include a synthetic turf surface with a rubber pad backing as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art of golf hitting mats and the like. In an embodiment including a solid training area platform  301 , the training area  300  may include one or more drains or through holes effective for removing water from the surface of the training area platform  301 . In an embodiment wherein the training area platform  301  includes a natural grass ball striking surface, the training area platform  301  may include one or more through holes for water drainage. In an embodiment, where the ball striking surface includes sand, the ends of the training area  300  may include raised side walls for forming a sand enclosure with the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200 . In the alternative, the entire perimeter of the training area  300  may include side walls. In one particular embodiment, the ball striking surface of the training area  300  may be interchangeable allowing for one or more types of ball striking surfaces for a given trainer  10 . For example, in an embodiment wherein the training area platform  301  includes a wood surface, a carpeted surface, a rubber surface, an artificial grass surface, a plastic surface, or a composite surface, a separate sand box or the like may be placed atop the training area platform  301  when a user desires to practice sand type golf shots and there after removed as desired. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 2 , the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may include see through barrier material disposed across the barriers  100 ,  200  such as rope netting, e.g., nylon netting, wire netting, plastic mesh netting, or other see through material attachable to the frame members  12 . In another embodiment, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may include solid barriers constructed from one or more transparent materials, one or more opaque materials, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may include a combination of solid barriers and see through material as desired. In addition, the training area  300  may employ a removable ball striking surface platform type structure. In the alternative, the trainer  10  may be set atop a particular target surface wherein the target surface itself serves as a ball striking surface of the training area  300 , e.g., a floor, a sports field, a sports court, a driveway, a grass field, a lawn, a driving range surface, and a golf course surface, e.g., grass, sand, dirt, mud surfaces. 
     With further reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the trainer  10  may include an open or unencumbered space between the upper portions of the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200 . In another embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the trainer  10  may include a cross brace  16  of one or more sections interconnecting the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  at or near the back side  20  of the trainer  10 . In such embodiment, three-way joints  14 B may be used to interconnect the cross brace  16 . Similar as the embodiment of  FIG. 2 , the base of the trainer  10  may include frame members  12 A and  12 C at the front and back ends of the training area  300 . In another embodiment, the trainer  10  may be devoid of either of frame members  12 A or  12 C. 
     In embodiments such as those depicted in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the frame members  12  may be operationally configured to receive extension members as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art of pipe fitting and the like, that are releasably connectable to the frame members  12  as desired for elongating and/or increasing the height and/or width and/or length of the trainer  10 . In another embodiment, the trainer  10  may include telescopic frame members  12  operationally configured to elongate and/or increase the height and/or width and/or length of the trainer  10 . In one embodiment, mating telescopic frame members  12  may be provided as a spring pin assembly with linear apertures disposed along one particular frame member  12  and a spring loaded pin on a mating frame member  12  for interlocking the frame members  12  and setting the telescoping frame members  12  in a fixed position when the spring pin extends through an aperture of the corresponding frame member  12 . In another embodiment, telescoping frame members  12  may include corresponding linear apertures whereby a removable type set pin may be passed through aligned apertures of the frame members  12  in a manner effective to hold the frame members  12  in a fixed position. In still another embodiment, the trainer  10  may be provided with a plurality of interchangeable frame members  12  of various lengths for adjusting the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200 . As described in detail below, the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may vary according to the size of the individual using the trainer  10 , the individual&#39;s type of swing, the type of club or the length of the golf club, i.e., length of the club shaft, being swung when using the trainer  10 . 
     It is also contemplated that the trainer  10  may include one or more spike type members operationally configured to penetrate the ground to secure the trainer  10  in a fixed position during use. In a simplified example, a trainer  10  as shown in  FIG. 2  may include one or more spike members along the bottom side of one or more frame members  12  whereby the trainer  10  may be fixed to a ball striking surface, e.g., a tee box or a sand trap at a driving range or golf course, whereby a person may make use of the trainer  10  fixed to the surface. 
     Turning to  FIG. 4 , the trainer  10  may also comprise independent first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200 , each having one or more base leg members  25  for supporting the vertical barriers  100 ,  200  in upright positions. As shown, a golf hitting mat  30  may be set in the training area  300  between the vertical barriers  100 ,  200  providing a ball striking surface for a person to stand on when practicing the golf swing. Because the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  are separate free standing members, the size of the training area  300  there between may be set as desired. In still another embodiment, a leg member  25  of a barrier may include one or more wheels for rolling the barrier across a surface. In this embodiment, one or both of the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be adjustable as desired. 
     In one embodiment, a tarp or netting device may be used in conjunction with the trainer  10  by situating the tarp or netting device at the front side  21  of the trainer  10  for the purpose of catching and retaining golf balls being hit out from the training area  300 . As such, a tarp or netting device may be attached to the front side  21  of the trainer  10  as desired. The trainer  10  may also include one or more fasteners, hooks, stands, trays, pouches, bags, containers, magnets, or other holders for securing or holding various types of golf accessories to the trainer  10 . Exemplary accessories include, but are not necessarily limited to towels, golf club cleaning brushes, golf shoe cleaning brushes, tee holders, golf ball containers, golf glove holders, beverage holders, wallet, keys, cell phones, smart phones, electronic tablet devices, firearms, and combinations thereof. It is also contemplated that the trainer  10  may include a seating apparatus attached thereto as desired. For example, one of the vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be operationally configured to include one or more flip up seats similar as those found in vehicles, e.g., trucks/vans. The trainer  10  may also be provided with a radio and/or television as desired including a power source and outlet for powering a radio and/or television and/or other electronic device. It is further contemplated that the trainer  10  may include a video and/or still camera for imaging a person when using the trainer  10 . In such embodiment, a monitor or a television in communication with the camera may be used to provide a playback type review of an individual&#39;s golf swing. 
     Although the trainer  10  may be built to scale, a suitable trainer  10  includes a second vertical barrier  200  having a height great enough to intercept a golf club during a person&#39;s (1) backswing if and when the backswing is performed incorrectly as described herein, e.g., the backswing is performed along one or more swing planes too flat for the particular person using the trainer  10 , and (2) follow through if a person does not finish with his/her hands high enough relative to his/her own shoulders as described herein. Generally, a second vertical barrier  200  having a height at about a user&#39;s hips is too short to intercept a golf club at or near the top of the backswing. Thus, for most individuals a suitable second vertical barrier  200  has a minimum height at least about equal to the user&#39;s waistline and a maximum height about equal to the height of the individual using the trainer  10 . Although the second vertical barrier  200  is not limited to a particular maximum height, a suitable height may be determined according to trainer  10  materials cost, transport, storage, location of use, and combinations thereof. As such, the second vertical barrier  200  may be operationally adjustable in height as desired, e.g., for use by both adults and children. As a simplified example, the second vertical barrier  200  may be provided as an adjustable member with a minimum height of about 0.91 meters (about 3.0 feet) and a maximum height of about 2.13 meters (about 7.0 feet). In another embodiment, the second vertical barrier  200  may include a fixed height well above the minimum height for the tallest person anticipated to use the trainer  10 . As a simplified example, seeing that the average adult male height in the United States of America at the time of this application is about 1.77 meters (about 69.5 inches, i.e., five feet nine and one half inches)—the second vertical barrier  200  may be provided at a fixed height of about 2.44 meters (about 8.0 feet). 
     Suitably, the first vertical barrier  100  has a height effective to intercept a golf club during the take away of the backswing and/or during the downswing as such terms are understood by persons of ordinary skill in golf swing mechanics if the golf club is swung outside the target line  26  away from the user&#39;s body. Thus, for most individuals a suitable first vertical barrier  100  has a minimum height about equal to the midpoint of the user&#39;s tibia bone and a maximum height about equal to the height of the individual using the trainer  10 . For ease of use, the trainer  10  may be provided with first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  about equal in height as shown in  FIGS. 1-4 . Such a configuration is suitable for use by both right handed swingers and left handed golf club swingers. Since different size persons may make use of a trainer  10 , the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may vary accordingly. As stated above, the trainer  10  may be built to scale  10 . In an embodiment constructed for use by an average adult male, a suitable maximum distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be up to about 1.52 meters (about 60.0 inches) and a suitable minimum distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be about 1.02 meters (about 40.0 inches). In such embodiment, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may also include a length ranging from about 1.23 meters (about 4.0 feet) to about 2.44 meters (about 8.0 feet) and a height ranging from about 1.23 meters (about 4.0 feet) to about 1.83 meters (about 6.0 feet). 
     As depicted in  FIGS. 1-4 , the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be aligned in a substantially parallel orientation. For one or more particular persons and/or practice sessions, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be provided or set in non-parallel alignment as shown in the simplified illustrations of  FIGS. 5 and 6 . With further reference to  FIGS. 1-4 , the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may form right angles with the hitting surface of the training area  300 . In other embodiments, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may form an angle less than or greater than 90.0 degrees for one or more particular persons and/or practice session—see for example the simplified embodiments of a trainer  10  as shown in  FIGS. 7-9 . 
     In another embodiment as shown in  FIG. 10A , the trainer  10  may include a cage like configuration including a three sided rectangular shaped top section  40  including a first portion defined by elements  41  and  42  and an adjustable coupling member  43  operationally configured to connect elements  41  and  42 . The top section  40  further includes a second portion defined by elements  44  and  45  and an adjustable T-shaped coupling  46  operationally configured to interconnect elements  44  and  45 . The top section  40  also includes a third portion defined by elements  47  and  48  and an adjustable T-shaped coupling  49  operationally configured to interconnect elements  47  and  48 . 
     The top section  40  further includes first and second three-way joints  50  and  51  defining the top corners of the trainer  10 . The first joint  50  includes (1) a first end  52  operationally configured to receive element  41  in attachment thereto, (2) a second end  53  oriented at a right angle to first end  52  and operationally configured to receive element  44  in attachment thereto and (3) a third end  54  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  52 ,  53 . Likewise, the second joint  51  includes (1) a first end  55  operationally configured to receive element  42  in attachment thereto, (2) a second end  56  oriented at a right angle to first end  55  and operationally configured to receive element  47  in attachment thereto and (3) a third end  57  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  55 ,  56 . 
     Adjustable T-shaped coupling  46  suitably couples adjacent elements  44  and  45  via a first end  58  and a second end  59  and has a third end  60  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  58 ,  59 . First and second ends  58  and  59  include co-linear female type mating surfaces. Likewise, adjustable T-shaped coupling  49  suitably couples adjacent elements  47  and  48  via a first end  61  and a second end  62  and has a third end  63  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  61 ,  62 . First and second ends  61  and  62  include co-linear female type mating surfaces. 
     The trainer  10  further includes a bottom section  64  including a first portion defined by elements  65  and  66  and an adjustable coupling  67  operationally configured to connect elements  65  and  66 . The bottom section  64  also includes a second portion defined by elements  68  and  69  and an adjustable T-shaped coupling  70  operationally configured to connect elements  68  and  69 . The bottom section  64  further includes a third portion defined by elements  71  and  72  and an adjustable T-shaped coupling  73  operationally configured to connect elements  71  and  72 . 
     The bottom section  64  also includes first and second three-way joints  74  and  75  defining bottom corners of the trainer  10 . The first joint  74  includes (1) a first end  76  operationally configured to receive element  65  in attachment thereto, (2) a second end  77  oriented at a right angle to first end  76  and operationally configured to receive element  68  in attachment thereto and (3) a third end  78  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  76 ,  77 . Likewise, the second joint  75  includes (1) a first end  79  operationally configured to receive element  66  in attachment thereto, (2) a second end  80  oriented at a right angle to first end  79  and operationally configured to receive element  71  in attachment thereto and (3) a third end  81  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  79 ,  80 . As shown, the joints  50  and  74  are mated to opposing ends of first upright member  82  and the joints  51  and  75  are mated to opposing ends of second upright member  83 . 
     Adjustable T-shaped coupling  70  suitably couples adjacent elements  68  and  69  via a first end  84  and a second end  85  and has a third end  86  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  84 ,  85 . First and second ends  84  and  85  include co-linear female type mating surfaces. Likewise, adjustable T-shaped coupling  73  suitably couples adjacent elements  71  and  72  via a first end  87  and a second end  88  and has a third end  89  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  87 ,  88 . First and second ends  87  and  88  include co-linear female type mating surfaces. As shown, the T-shaped couplings  46  and  70  are mated to opposing ends of third upright member  90  at third ends  60  and  86  and the T-shaped couplings  49  and  73  are mated to opposing ends of fourth upright member  91  at third ends  63  and  89 . 
     The open end of the trainer  10  is defined by a first L-shaped coupling  92  operationally configured to receive element  45  in attachment thereto at a first end  93  of the coupling  92  and a second L-shaped coupling  94  operationally configured to receive element  48  in attachment thereto at a first end  95  of the coupling  94 . The trainer  10  includes a three-way joint  96  including (1) a first end  97  operationally configured to receive element  69  in attachment thereto, (2) a second end  98  oriented at a right angle to first end  52  and (3) a third end  99  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  97 ,  98 . The trainer  10  also includes a three-way joint  100  including (1) a first end  101  operationally configured to receive element  72  in attachment thereto, (2) a second end  102  oriented at a right angle to first end  101  and (3) a third end  103  oriented at a right angle to the first and second ends  101 ,  102 . As shown, the trainer  10  includes (1) a fifth upright member  104  connected to coupling  92  at a second end  105  and connected to coupling  96  at third end  99  of joint  96  and (2) a sixth upright member  106  connected to coupling  94  at a second end  107  and connected to coupling  100  at a third end  103 . The trainer  10  may also include a portion defined by elements  108  and  109  and an adjustable coupling member  110  operationally configured to connect elements  108  and  109 . As shown, element  108  may be mated with coupling  96  at second end  98  and element  109  may be mated with coupling  100  at second end  102 . Collectively, elements  65 ,  66 ,  67 ,  68 ,  69 ,  71 ,  72 ,  108 ,  109  and  110  form a rectangular bottom perimeter of the trainer  10 . In addition, the various elements and/or couplings described may be changed as desired to adjust the overall size configuration of the trainer  10 . Also, the total number of the one or more elements mated within the couplings may be adjusted allowing the overall size configuration of the trainer  10  to be altered as desired. In one embodiment, the male type ends of the elements may simply be inserted in the female members of the couplings. In another embodiment, the elements and couplings may include threaded connections. Other collar type members may be employed between the elements and couplings as desired. 
     Turning to  FIG. 10B , in another particular embodiment the trainer  10  may include twenty upright or vertical members  130 , sixteen horizontal members  133  and various couplings there between interconnecting the members  130 ,  133 , e.g., cylindrical joints  135  (ten total), T-shaped couplings  136  (twelve total), elbow joints  137  (four total) and three-way joints  138  (four total)—each of these individual members collectively providing the structural framework for the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200 . As shown, the trainer  10  also includes base members  139  and  140  connected to various three-way joints  138  for forming a rectangular base as shown and defining the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  and thus, defining the size of the training area  300 . Although this particular embodiment may be built to scale, a suitable height of the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  is about 1.52 meters (60.0 inches); a suitable length of the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  is about 2.13 meters (84.0 inches); and a suitable distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  is about 1.10 meters (42.0 inches). As understood by the skilled artisan, additional members and couplings may be added to enlarge the trainer  10  beyond the dimensions mentioned above and likewise, members and couplings may be removed to reduce the size of the trainer  10 . In addition, a tarp or netting device may be draped over, or otherwise suspended about, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  to prevent a hit ball from traveling through the empty spaces between the various members of the trainer  10 , e.g., where a ball is mishit off the toe of the golf club head. 
     Without limiting the invention, the trainer  10  is suitably constructed from one or more materials durable enough to maintain its basic shape during use. In particular, the trainer  10  may be constructed of one or more materials including but not necessarily limited to those materials resistant to chipping, cracking, excessive bending and reshaping as a result of ozone, weathering, heat, moisture, other outside mechanical and chemical influences, as well as various impacts and other loads placed on the trainer  10 . Likewise, the trainer  10  may comprise any color or combination of colors, or in the alternative, the trainer  10  may be constructed from a transparent or translucent material(s). 
     Suitable materials of frame member  12  construction include, but are not necessarily limited to metals, plastics, rubbers, woods, bamboo, fiberglass, plexiglass, filled composite materials, and combinations thereof. Suitable plastics include, but are not necessarily limited to vinyl polymers and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Suitably metals include, but are not necessarily limited to aluminum, copper, steel, brass, and combinations thereof. In one suitable embodiment, the trainer  10  may be comprised of PVC. In another suitable embodiment, the trainer  10  may be comprised of aluminum. 
     As understood by the skilled artisan, the golf swing is ideally performed along a desired swing path including (1) one or more swing planes and (2) a circular pattern or arc. The swing path affects the direction a golf ball travels when hit and the trajectory of the golf shot. As understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art, the swing plane is an imaginary flat type surface used to describe the path and angle on which a club travels during a swing. Suitably, a person&#39;s golf swing consists of a backswing plane and a downswing plane whereby the golf club head follows a circular pattern or arc  25  (see  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) (1) from a first front position (“I”) relative to the coronal plane  23  of the person  5  using the trainer  10  (2) to a second rear position (“II”) relative to the coronal plane  23  of the person  5  (3) to a third front position (“I”) during the downswing. The swing plane is literally the tilt of the inclined plane made by the golf club&#39;s shaft as it travels along the circular pattern or arc  25  (see exemplary swing plane  35  in  FIGS. 11C-11E ). 
     The swing plane  35  or tilt can be (1) substantially upright drawing close to parallel with the coronal plane  23  of the individual using the trainer  10 , (2) flatter like a baseball swing or (3) somewhere in between like swing plane  35  shown in  FIGS. 11C-11E . The plane of a golf swing can also tilt left or right of a target line  26  or directly along the target line  26 . Thus, the present trainer  10  is operationally configured to assist a person  5  with developing a repeatable golf swing or identical multiple swings along a particular swing path, i.e., the backswing and downswing planes along a particular circular pattern or arc  25 , as desired. Likewise, the trainer  10  is operationally configured to provide instant feedback to a person  5  using the trainer  10  if and when a golf club does not travel along an intended swing path within the training area  300 . Thus, in one implementation the present trainer  10  is operationally configured to help golfers overcome one or more deviations from their desired swing paths by storing the memory of a desired golf swing as an electrical-chemical code in the person&#39;s brain within neurons, i.e., myelination. 
     As shown in  FIG. 11F , in one suitable embodiment the first vertical barrier  100  suitably includes a perimeter greater in area than the arc  25  of the golf swing. Likewise, the second vertical barrier  200  may include a perimeter greater in area than the arc  25  of the golf swing (see  FIG. 11G ). With attention to  FIGS. 11H and 11I , the inner surfaces of the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may also be thought of in terms of quadrants A 1 -D 1  and A 2 -D 2  for use alone or in combination with the first front position (“I”) and the second rear position (“II”) for establishing or otherwise determining the location of the golf club in space during the golf swing. 
     Each individual golfer has his/her own swing plane, typically determined according to his/her body type and the club he/she is swinging at a given time. For example, when a golfer is at address (see  FIG. 12 ), the length of a golfer&#39;s arms, legs and torso may affect his/her posture, which may affect one&#39;s swing plane (see X- 1 ). The length of a golf club may also affect the angle X- 2  of the golf club shaft  27 , i.e., the address plane, with the ground. As understood by the skilled artisan, a five foot two inch (5′-2″) tall golfer typically holds a forty (40.0) inch long club flatter than a six foot two inch (6′-2″) tall golfer. Therefore, a shorter golfer will tend to have a flatter on-plane swing than a taller golfer. 
     Regardless of body type, the majority of golfers perform the backswing and downswing according to one of the following types of golf swings: (1) the conventional or standard slot swing, (2) the single plane slot swing or (3) the reverse slot swing. In general, the standard slot swing is defined by a downswing ( FIG. 13B ) having a shaft position along a plane X- 4  flatter than the shaft position of the backswing plane X- 3  ( FIG. 13A ). In other words, during the backswing the golf club typically tracks above the address plane and then drops down into a shallower slot in the downswing toward the golf ball  201 . The standard single plane slot swing is designed to be completed in a straight line or pendulum type motion, i.e., the backswing ( FIG. 14A ) and downswing ( FIG. 14B ) being performed along the same plane X- 5 . This type of swing is initiated from a set up at address whereby the club shaft forms a direct line extension with the arms all the way up to the shoulders. The reverse slot swing is defined by a backswing plane X- 6  ( FIG. 15A ) having a shaft position along a plane flatter than the shaft position of the downswing plane X- 7  ( FIG. 15B ). Regardless of the type of swing performed by a golfer, the plane of his/her backswing and/or downswing typically shifts somewhat depending on the length of the golf club being swung, which determines how far apart a golfer is from the golf ball to be struck—see  FIG. 16 , which illustrates various swing planes achieved using different length golf clubs as compared to a base swing plane X- 8  established using a “5 iron” as the term is understood by the skilled artisan. 
     Regardless of the type of golf swing performed, it is typically desirable to take a golf club straighter back away along the target line  26  at the beginning of the backswing to initiate a desired swing plane (see Arrow AA in  FIG. 17 ) as opposed to drawing the golf club inside of the target line  26  behind the body resulting in too flat of a swing plane (see Arrow BB in  FIG. 18A ) and as opposed to rolling the wrists or hands during the backswing, i.e., rolling the club over whereby the club face rolls open facing the sky (see Arrow BB in  FIG. 18B ). Drawing of the golf club inside the target line  26  may lead to a swing path through ball impact that goes to the right of an intended target. 
     According to many golf practitioners, it is also not desirable to draw a golf club back outside the target line  26  away from the body, which too results in a golfer being off the desired plane typically characterized by a too upright a swing plane and a swing path through ball impact that goes to the left of an intended target. Maintaining a desired plane on the backswing helps set up a desired plane and club head swing path on the downswing through impact with the golf ball, which it commonly referred to in the sport of golf as an “in-to-in” or “inside-square-inside” swing path (see Arrow CC in  FIG. 19 ). As such, the present trainer  10  is operationally configured to (1) assist in developing an in-to-in swing path and (2) notify a user of the trainer  10  as to when a particular swing does not follow an in-to-in swing path. According to applicant, an in-to-in swing path is desirable for hitting a golf ball toward the intended target. 
     Undesired club head directions through ball impact are often referred to as an “out-to-in” or “outside in” swing path (see Arrow DD) and an “in-to-out” or “inside out” swing path (see Arrow EE). For example, on the downswing if the golf club travels too flat, the butt of the golf club points outside the target line and the club head will travel in-to-out. If the golf club travels too upright, the butt of the golf club points inside the target line and the head will travel out-to-in. Typically, an in-to-out swing path can create a pushed or hooked shot, while an out-to-in swing path can create a pulled or sliced shot. If the golf club is on the desired plane in the downswing (in-to-in swing path) the golf club will travel straight down the target line  26  with the clubface square at impact resulting in a straight golf shot. 
     The present trainer  10  is effective for developing a desired golf swing by providing first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  of a size and shape effective for intercepting a golf club that does not substantially track along a desired swing path. For example, the second vertical barrier  200  will intercept a golf club during the backswing if an individual using the trainer  10  rolls his hands over erroneously as shown in  FIGS. 18A and 18B . Thus, in one embodiment the one or more vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be oriented as desired (see  FIGS. 5-9 ) to help an individual overcome one or more particular deviations in his/her desired swing path. 
     The present trainer  10  is also effective for developing and/or maintaining muscle memory for a desired backswing plane and downswing plane by providing instant feedback to an individual using the trainer  10  when the backswing and/or downswing are tilted off from a desired swing plane and/or when the backswing and/or downswing is marked by a hitch type movement, as the term is understood in the art of golf, in an individual&#39;s swing and/or casting of the club as such term is also understood by the skilled artisan. 
     As stated above, the trainer  10  involves a first vertical barrier  100  and a second vertical barrier  200  set apart from the first vertical barrier  100  providing a training area  300  there between for an individual to swing a golf club in a real play type action as performed on a golf course or at a driving range. As also stated above, the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may vary according to the size of the individual using the trainer  10 , the individual&#39;s type of swing, the type of club or the length of the golf club being swung when using the trainer  10 . Likewise, the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  suitably extend out in front and behind an individual standing in the training area  300  a distance effective to intercept the golf club if the golf club travels along one or more undesired swing paths. As such, the trainer  10  is effective to provide feedback to a user as to the position in space of the club head along X, Y and Z axes when performing the entire golf swing or a portion of a full swing—the three axes of a club head in space combining to affect the loft, path and distance of a golf ball&#39;s flight when hit. Said another way, the trainer  10  is operationally configured to provide feedback to a user as to the position in space of the club head when the club head is located in either a front position (“I”) or a rear position (“II”) relative to the coronal plane  23  of the person using the trainer  10  along the entire arc  25  of the golf swing. 
     Without limiting the invention, one method of establishing the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  prior to using the trainer  10  may include setting the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  apart a distance not less than the length of the golf club to be swung in the training area  300 . From this position, the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be adjusted as desired. For example, if an individual plans to practice swinging a “3 iron” having a length of 99.57 cm (39.25 inches), the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be set apart at a distance no less than 99.57 cm (39.25 inches). If too narrow, the distance between the barriers  100 ,  200  can be increased just enough to perform an adequate golf swing without contacting either barrier  100 ,  200 . Also, the width of the barriers  100 ,  200  may be adjusted as desired to ensure club contact with the barriers  100 ,  200  when a particular user is performing undesired golf swings. 
     Exemplary widths of a suitable training area  300  may correspond with the standard men&#39;s and women&#39;s club lengths as shown in Table 1 below. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                   
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Men&#39;s 
                 Women&#39;s 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Graphite 
                 Steel 
                 Graphite 
                 Steel 
               
               
                   
                 Shaft 
                 Shaft 
                 Shaft 
                 Shaft 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 cm 
                 inches 
                 cm 
                 inches 
                 cm 
                 inches 
                 cm 
                 inches 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Driver 
                 114.30 
                 45.0 
                 111.76 
                 44.0 
                 111.76 
                 44.0 
                 109.22 
                 43.0 
               
               
                 3 Wood 
                 109.22 
                 43.0 
                 106.68 
                 42.0 
                 106.68 
                 42.0 
                 104.14 
                 41.0 
               
               
                 5 Wood 
                 106.68 
                 42.0 
                 104.14 
                 41.0 
                 104.14 
                 41.0 
                 101.60 
                 40.0 
               
               
                 2 Iron 
                 100.84 
                 39.75 
                 99.57 
                 39.25 
                 98.30 
                 38.75 
                 97.03 
                 38.25 
               
               
                 3 Iron 
                 99.57 
                 39.25 
                 98.30 
                 38.75 
                 97.03 
                 38.25 
                 95.76 
                 37.75 
               
               
                 4 Iron 
                 98.30 
                 38.75 
                 97.03 
                 38.25 
                 95.76 
                 37.75 
                 94.49 
                 37.25 
               
               
                 5 Iron 
                 97.03 
                 38.25 
                 95.76 
                 37.75 
                 94.49 
                 37.25 
                 93.22 
                 36.75 
               
               
                 6 Iron 
                 95.76 
                 37.75 
                 94.49 
                 37.25 
                 93.22 
                 36.75 
                 91.95 
                 36.25 
               
               
                 7 Iron 
                 94.49 
                 37.25 
                 93.22 
                 36.75 
                 91.95 
                 36.25 
                 90.68 
                 35.75 
               
               
                 8 Iron 
                 93.22 
                 36.75 
                 91.95 
                 36.25 
                 90.68 
                 35.75 
                 89.41 
                 35.25 
               
               
                 9 Iron 
                 91.95 
                 36.25 
                 90.68 
                 35.75 
                 89.41 
                 35.25 
                 88.14 
                 34.75 
               
               
                 PW 
                 91.95 
                 36.25 
                 90.68 
                 35.75 
                 89.41 
                 35.25 
                 88.14 
                 34.75 
               
               
                 SW 
                 91.95 
                 36.25 
                 90.68 
                 35.75 
                 89.41 
                 35.25 
                 88.14 
                 34.75 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     During use, an individual may stand in the training area  300  with his/her back to the second vertical barrier  200  with his/her buttocks about 15.24 cm (6.0 inches) away from the second vertical barrier  200  at an address position (see  FIG. 20 ). If performed adequately, the golf club should not contact the second vertical barrier  200  when performing the backswing and should finish at the top with the shaft of the golf club substantially horizontal to the ground and substantially parallel with the target line  26  (see  FIG. 21 ). If the backswing is performed on too flat a plane as shown in  FIG. 18A , the golf club will contact the second vertical barrier  200  alerting the user that the plane of his/her backswing was too flat. If during the backswing the golf club is drawn back outside the target line  26  away from the body, the golf club suitably contacts the first vertical barrier  100  giving notice to the user of the swing path. 
     If the downswing is performed adequately, i.e., an “in-to-in” or “inside-square-inside” swing path as depicted in  FIG. 25 , the golf club should not contact either the first or second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  as shown in  FIG. 22 . However, when transitioning from the backswing to the downswing, if the user spins open the golf club will contact the second vertical barrier  200  alerting the user as to the fault in his/her swing. Likewise, if the golf club follows an out-to-in swing path as shown in  FIG. 26 , the golf club will contact the first vertical barrier  100 . 
     The follow through portion of the golf swing following ball contact is another important phase of the golf swing that can be checked and improved by using the trainer  10 . As understood by persons of ordinary skill in the game of golf, the follow through is an indicator of what happened during the golf swing prior to ball contact. If performed adequately, the golfer&#39;s weight should shift from the back side to the front side during the downswing, at ball contact the hips should rotate open fully extending the right arm with the golf club remaining on plane (see  FIG. 23 ). At finish, a golfer should have a balanced posture with his/her weight on the front side, head facing the target with the right shoulder coming under the chin with the shaft of the golf club completing the circle or arc of the swing above the second vertical barrier  200  (see 
       FIG. 24 ). If the golf swing is performed incorrectly, e.g., the hips over rotate, the golf club may contact the second vertical barrier  200 . 
     The invention will be better understood with reference to the following non-limiting examples, which are illustrative only and not intended to limit the present invention to a particular embodiment. 
     EXAMPLE 1 
     In a first non-limiting example, a trainer  10  as shown in  FIG. 2  is provided as an adjustable kit for forming first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  and a training area  300  there between. The first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  may be assembled to one of four sizes via the various frame members  12  described below. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Quantity 
                 Part 
                 Length 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12A 
                 about 1.07 m (about 42.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12A 
                 about 1.12 m (about 44.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12A 
                 about 1.23 m (about 48.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12A 
                 about 1.37 m (about 54.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12C 
                 about 1.07 m (about 42.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12C 
                 about 1.12 m (about 44.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12C 
                 about 1.23 m (about 48.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12C 
                 about 1.37 m (about 54.0 inches) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12B 
                 about 2.13 m (about 7.0 feet) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12D 
                 about 2.13 m (about 7.0 feet) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12I 
                 about 2.13 m (about 7.0 feet) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12J 
                 about 2.13 m (about 7.0 feet) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12E 
                 about 1.52 m (about 5.0 feet) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12F 
                 about 1.52 m (about 5.0 feet) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12G 
                 about 1.52 m (about 5.0 feet) 
               
               
                 1 
                 Base frame member 12H 
                 about 1.52 m (about 5.0 feet) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The frame members  12  include one inch Schedule 40 plastic polymer pipe. The surfaces of the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  include nylon mesh netting secured to the frame members  12  via nylon rope material. 
     In operation, the distance between the first and second vertical barriers  100 ,  200  of the trainer  10  may be adjusted according to the type of golf club being used at any given time, e.g., “short irons,” “mid-irons,” “long irons,” “woods” and “drivers” as each of these terms are known to persons of ordinary skill in the game of golf. For example, an individual may use base frame members  12 A and  12 C having a length of about 1.07 m (about 42.0 inches) when swinging a short iron. An individual may use base frame members  12 A and  12 C having a length of about 1.12 m (about 44.0 inches) when swinging a mid-iron. An individual may use base frame members  12 A and  12 C having a length of about 1.23 m (about 48.0 inches) when swinging a long iron or a wood. An individual may use base frame members  12 A and  12 C having a length of about 1.37 m (about 54.0 inches) when swinging a driver. 
     EXAMPLE 2 
     In a second non-limiting example, a trainer  10  as described in Example 1 is provided with frame members  12 A and  12 C for use with long irons and woods having a length of about 1.27 m (about 50.0 inches). 
     While the invention has been described in detail in terms of specific examples of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described apparatus, system and methods. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.