Baseball hitting aid

Abstract

A hitting aid includes a waist belt that encircles a user's waist; the waist belt is attached using hook and loop fasteners, a buckle, or other. An ankle strap encircles the user's ankle; the ankle strap is attached in a similar manner. A stirrup is attached to the ankle strap and is arranged so that the user may insert his or her foot into the stirrup. An elastic connecting strap extends from the ankle strap to the waist strap, and is adjustable so that the distance between the waist strap and the ankle strap may be lengthened or shortened. When worn by a user, the hitting aid discourages the leg onto which the hitting aid is attached from being fully extended.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 371,542, filed Feb. 19, 2003 entitled “Power Hitter's Helper,” which is hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to a mechanical aid to improve a sporting technique. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device a baseball player wears to improve a baseball hitting technique. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Learning to hit a baseball can be difficult, especially for younger players. Improper stance, a poor swing, improper weight distribution, and lack of good hand-eye coordination all contribute to the difficulty in learning how to hit a baseball well. [0004] Therefore, a mechanical device is desirable that would provide an easy, quick and safe way to produce a better hitter while lessening the chances for injury due to improper swinging. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0005] To achi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005] To achieve the foregoing, and in accordance with the purpose of the present invention, a mechanical aid is disclosed that fosters good technique when swinging at a baseball, softball or similar ball.

[0006] The hitting aid includes an upper assembly that in circles a user's waist, a lower assembly around the user's ankle or foot, and a connecting strap connecting the two assemblies. When in use, the length of the connecting strap is preferably shorter than the vertical distance between the user's waist and ankle (when the user is standing with legs straight), thus encouraging the user to keep a leg bent.

[0007] The baseball hitting aid has many advantages. The aid helps batters swing at a ball using their hips and legs while keeping the weight over the inside of the back knee. The aid fosters a safer and more consistent level swing, improves stance, and increases both power and accuracy. In particular, the aid restricts extension of the batter's rear leg thus allowing a smooth transfer of body weight.

[0008] Further, the hitting aid can be used by amateurs or professionals. The hitting aid is portable, lightweight, and can be strapped on in a matter of minutes to help with training. It can be used by youngsters but is strong enough to withstand the weight of a heavy adult. The aid is adjustable so it can be used by an individual of any height.

Problems solved by technology

Learning to hit a baseball can be difficult, especially for younger players.

Improper stance, a poor swing, improper weight distribution, and lack of good hand-eye coordination all contribute to the difficulty in learning how to hit a baseball well.

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