Training Aid for Skaters

Abstract

A training aid for skaters is described which comprises a frame consisting of a seat, handle bars, and at least one leg or ski. Preferably the frame has four leg supports to provide maximum balance. However three leg supports with one front leg support and two rear leg supports, or two front leg supports and one rear leg support could be used. Alternatively, only one front leg support and one rear leg support could be used, or one front leg support and one rear leg support could be connected to a single ski. In some examples, the ends of the leg supports are comprised of pvc piping while in other cases the leg supports are attached to skis. Various forms of bracing can be used to strengthen the frame.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of Canadian Application No. 2,797,075 filed Nov. 21, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates to training aids and, more particularly, to a device for use in the instruction of, or individual use by, a beginning skater.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Beginning skaters, particularly young ones, experience considerable difficulty in mastering the sport, often out of fear of falling and suffering injury, but also due to issues of coordination and balance. Once a child has taken a bad fall, he or she often times becomes so afraid as to give up trying to learn to skate or, at the least, becomes so cautious that the learning process is slow and lengthy.[0004]In general, children learning to skate like the security of holding onto someone, usually a parent who may or may not be an experienced skater, but even this does not insure against an occas...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an improved mobile skating aid that is simple and low-cost, easy to transport and store, and adjustable for skaters of different ages and sizes. The device helps build the skater's confidence by providing support without interfering with their freedom of movement. Additionally, it is lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to use.

Problems solved by technology

Beginning skaters, particularly young ones, experience considerable difficulty in mastering the sport, often out of fear of falling and suffering injury, but also due to issues of coordination and balance.

Once a child has taken a bad fall, he or she often times becomes so afraid as to give up trying to learn to skate or, at the least, becomes so cautious that the learning process is slow and lengthy.

In general, children learning to skate like the security of holding onto someone, usually a parent who may or may not be an experienced skater, but even this does not insure against an occasional fall.

Also, a good skater may not be available when needed or have the time and patience required to teach the beginner.

While the need for training and safety devices for beginning skaters has long been recognized (see, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 320,462 and 321,867, issued in 1915) and a number of other skating aids have been proposed more recently (U.S. Pat. No. 2,900,008 (1959) and U.S. Pat. No. 4,021,033 (1977)), those devices have the disadvantages that they tend to restrict and confine the user in a manner which limits the ability to skate in the natural skating position.

However, should the skater be distracted and release the grip on the hand rail, he / she may still fall onto the ice or other skating surface.

Images