US20130185852A1 - Protective apparel for martial arts training - Google Patents

Protective apparel for martial arts training Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20130185852A1
US20130185852A1 US13/877,937 US201113877937A US2013185852A1 US 20130185852 A1 US20130185852 A1 US 20130185852A1 US 201113877937 A US201113877937 A US 201113877937A US 2013185852 A1 US2013185852 A1 US 2013185852A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
protective apparel
user
apparel
inflatable bladder
protective
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US13/877,937
Inventor
Richard Vince
Andrew Woodhead
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Richardvincecom Ltd
Richard Vince com Ltd
Original Assignee
Richard Vince com Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Richard Vince com Ltd filed Critical Richard Vince com Ltd
Assigned to RICHARDVINCE.COM LIMITED reassignment RICHARDVINCE.COM LIMITED ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WOODHEAD, ANDREW, VINCE, RICHARD
Publication of US20130185852A1 publication Critical patent/US20130185852A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41WEARING APPAREL
    • A41DOUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D13/00Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
    • A41D13/0015Sports garments other than provided for in groups A41D13/0007 - A41D13/088
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/20Punching balls, e.g. for boxing; Other devices for striking used during training of combat sports, e.g. bags
    • A63B69/24Punching balls, e.g. for boxing; Other devices for striking used during training of combat sports, e.g. bags mounted on, or suspended from, a movable support
    • A63B69/26Punching balls, e.g. for boxing; Other devices for striking used during training of combat sports, e.g. bags mounted on, or suspended from, a movable support attached to the human body
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/08Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
    • A63B71/081Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions fluid-filled, e.g. air-filled
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/08Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
    • A63B71/12Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16MFRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
    • F16M13/00Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles
    • F16M13/02Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/08Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
    • A63B71/12Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
    • A63B2071/1208Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders for the breast and the abdomen, e.g. breast plates
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/08Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
    • A63B71/12Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
    • A63B71/1225Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet
    • A63B2071/1241Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet for the thigh
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/08Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
    • A63B71/12Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
    • A63B71/1225Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet
    • A63B2071/1258Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet for the shin, e.g. shin guards
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2210/00Space saving
    • A63B2210/50Size reducing arrangements for stowing or transport
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/62Inflatable
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2244/00Sports without balls
    • A63B2244/10Combat sports
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2244/00Sports without balls
    • A63B2244/10Combat sports
    • A63B2244/104Judo
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2244/00Sports without balls
    • A63B2244/10Combat sports
    • A63B2244/106Karate
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/08Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
    • A63B71/12Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders
    • A63B71/1225Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the body or the legs, e.g. for the shoulders for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet

Definitions

  • This invention relates to protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training.
  • it relates to protective apparel adapted to be worn by a user during martial arts training exercises involving contact between two participants, such as pad work or spar training.
  • the term “spar training” is used broadly herein to refer to any martial arts training exercise involving contact between two participants, and thus includes pad work within its scope.
  • Spar training is an essential part of martial arts training utilised in practically all forms of martial art. It allows a trainee to practice and develop their skills against an actual opponent, though in a strictly regulated environment, rather than against a static, artificial opponent such as a dummy or punch-bag. In addition to its use in martial arts, spar training has also gained popularity in general fitness training.
  • Compressible foam protective apparel does however suffer from a number of drawbacks.
  • the risk of injury to the hand or foot of the spar training partner performing a strike also remains.
  • the wear and tear caused by repeated striking will eventually take its toll on the apparel, resulting either in the compressible foam becoming fatigued (i.e. failing to expand back to its initial state following impact) or the apparel becoming damaged. Either of these occurrences will expose the user to the risk of potentially serious injury. This problem can be compounded by the fact that the apparel may show no visible signs of having failed.
  • the applicant's co-pending UK patent application no. 10 16826.8 discloses inflatable martial arts training apparatus intended to be removably mounted on a structural element within a building, for the performance of martial arts or fitness training exercises involving a user punching and/or kicking the apparatus.
  • the present invention thus seeks to provide inflatable personal protection for use in spar training which overcomes the shortcomings of compressible foam protective apparel, and provides increased protection against injury, whilst enabling users to impart full power to their strikes during spar training.
  • the present invention further seeks to provide a lightweight, easily portable and collapsible alternative to conventional protective apparel.
  • the present invention has been developed for use in martial arts spar training, and will therefore be described herein with particular emphasis on this intended use. Nevertheless, it is envisaged that the present invention may also be adapted for use in relation to other contact sports, or indeed for use in any environment where protective apparel is desirable.
  • protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training, comprising:
  • the inflatable bladder may be inflated either prior to the user donning the protective apparel, or once the apparel is in situ on the user's body. It is however essential that inflation of the bladder to the required pressure be carried out prior to the commencement of spar training. Inflation of the bladder may be carried out either orally, using conventional air pumps, or by the provision of canisters of pressurised air or other gas.
  • the strike surface is preferably three-dimensional, and most preferably has a generally cylindrical profile. This is preferably achieved by forming the inflatable bladder such that it adopts a generally cylindrical profile on inflation.
  • the inflatable bladder preferably comprises one or more strengthening ribs, located internally thereof.
  • the strengthening ribs serve to impart greater resistance against damage and so prolong the useful life of the protective apparel.
  • said strengthening ribs divide the inflatable bladder into a plurality of chambers, thereby imparting a segmented structure to the apparel. This segmented structure also assists in providing the generally cylindrical profile.
  • the protective apparel may be formed with each said chamber being individually sealed, which would necessitate each individual chamber being provided with its own inflation valve.
  • each said chamber will in fact be in fluid communication with its adjacent chamber(s), such that air may flow from one chamber to another, with the inflatable bladder being provided with a single inflation valve. This enables the bladder to be inflated to a higher pressure than would otherwise be attainable, thus giving enhanced protection.
  • allowing air to flow from one chamber to another has been found to enhance the shock-attenuating properties of the inflated bladder, by means of a process known as pneumatic energy dissipation (PED).
  • PED pneumatic energy dissipation
  • Each inflatable bladder may comprise a plurality of interconnected segmented chambers.
  • the protective apparel, and the inflatable bladder which forms an integral component thereof, are preferably formed from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and/or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This may desirably take the form of TPU or PVC coated fabric material.
  • TPU thermoplastic polyurethane
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • the seams and joints of the apparel are preferably joined by ultrasonic welding, in order to provide maximum strength without the need for additional components or materials to achieve the joining.
  • each said valve is preferably located on a surface other than the strike surface.
  • the or each inflation valve is preferably a quick release valve to facilitate speedy deflation of the device following a training session.
  • the securing means to enable the protective apparel to be worn by a user preferably comprises one or more straps. Most preferably, said one or more straps are provided with complementary quick release buckle fasteners.
  • the apparel is adapted to be worn on a user's torso, and comprises: a generally cylindrical central portion adapted to wrap around said user's torso such that the strike surface extends over the front thereof; an upper portion adapted to protect said user's chest region; and a lower portion adapted to protect said user's groin region; each of said upper and lower portions extending from the generally cylindrical central portion.
  • the securing means preferably comprises a pair of parallel straps adapted to be secured across a user's back region.
  • the securing means may comprise a pair of parallel straps adapted to be secured over a user's shoulder region.
  • the protective apparel is adapted to be worn on a user's leg or arm, and is adapted to wrap around said user's leg or arm such that the strike surface extends outwardly thereof.
  • the securing means preferably comprises one or more straps adapted to be secured over an inner face of said leg or arm.
  • the present invention also provides a protective apparel kit comprising an article of protective apparel for a user's torso as hereinbefore described, and one or more articles of protective apparel for a user's leg(s) and/or arm(s), as hereinbefore described.
  • FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of protective apparel according to a first major embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 shows a rear perspective view of the protective apparel of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 shows a front perspective view of a user wearing the protective apparel of FIGS. 1 and 2 ;
  • FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of protective apparel according to a second major embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 5 shows a rear perspective view of the protective apparel of FIG. 4 ;
  • FIG. 6 shows a front perspective view of a user wearing the protective apparel of FIGS. 4 and 5 ;
  • FIG. 7 shows a front perspective view of a user wearing both the protective apparel of FIGS. 1 and 2 , and the protective apparel of FIGS. 4 and 5 , in combination.
  • FIG. 1 there is shown a first major embodiment of protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training according to the present invention, in the form of a torso protector 10 .
  • the torso protector 10 comprises a three dimensional strike surface 11 , carried on an inflatable bladder 12 .
  • a plurality of strengthening ribs 13 are provided internally within the bladder 12 .
  • the strengthening ribs 13 also divide the bladder 12 into a plurality of chambers 14 . As can be seen in FIG. 1 , this imparts a segmented structure to the torso protector 10 , which assists in the formation of the protector 10 with a generally cylindrical profile, thus enabling the protector 10 to wrap around the torso of a user.
  • the individual chambers 14 of the inflatable bladder 12 may either be individually sealed, or more preferably may be in fluid communication with one another, such that air may pass from one chamber to another. This improves the shock-attenuating properties of the inflatable bladder 12 by employing pneumatic energy dissipation (PED).
  • PED pneumatic energy dissipation
  • the torso protector 10 is formed with a generally cylindrical central portion 15 , intended to wrap around and protect the torso of a user.
  • At the front 16 of the protector 10 are formed upper and lower portions 17 , 18 extending from the central portion 15 .
  • the upper portion 17 is intended to cover and protect a user's chest region, whilst the lower portion 18 is intended to cover and protect a user's groin region.
  • the strike surface 11 extends over the central portion 15 , the upper portion 17 and the lower portion 18 .
  • the inflatable bladder 12 extends internally of the protector 10 throughout the central portion 15 , the upper portion 17 and the lower portion 18 .
  • the securing means takes the form of a pair of shoulder straps 21 , an upper back strap 22 , and a lower back strap 23 , each securely affixed to the protector at an anchor point 24 .
  • the shoulder straps 21 are designed to pass over a user's shoulders thereby to retain the protector 10 in place on the user's torso.
  • the upper and lower back straps 22 , 23 are designed to pass around a user's back and serve to retain the protector 10 in place on the user's torso, and prevent movement of the protector 10 on the torso.
  • Each strap 21 , 22 , 23 is provided with a male buckle member 25 constituting one half of a plastic quick release buckle mechanism of familiar construction, each said male buckle member 25 being adapted to engage with a complementary female buckle member 26 affixed to the protector at an anchor point 24 .
  • the female buckle members 26 associated with the shoulder straps 21 may share an anchor point 24 with the upper back strap 22 , and the female buckle member 26 associated therewith.
  • the quick release buckle mechanisms 25 , 26 also enable adjustment of the length of each strap 21 , 22 , 23 to fit users of differing sizes and to tighten or loosen the straps 21 , 22 , 23 during use, as required.
  • the protector 10 is provided with inflation valves 27 in communication with the internal inflatable bladder 12 and adapted to enable inflation and deflation thereof.
  • inflation valves 27 are provided, each adapted to inflate one side of the protector 10 , with an internal partition (not shown) being provided in the inflatable bladder 12 .
  • the inflation valves 27 are provided on an upwardly facing surface of the protector 10 rather than on the strike surface 11 , so as to prevent damage to the inflation valves 27 during use.
  • FIG. 3 this shows the torso protector 10 being worn by a user 30 , ready to participate in martial arts spar training.
  • the protector 10 is wrapped around the torso of the user 30 , facilitated by the segmented construction of the protector 10 , as defined by the strengthening ribs 13 and chambers 14 of the inflatable bladder 12 .
  • the generally cylindrical central portion 15 thus wraps around the user's abdomen and sides, with the upper portion 17 extending to cover the user's chest region, and the lower portion 18 extending to cover the user's groin region.
  • the protector is held in place by use of the back straps 22 , 23 (not visible in FIG. 3 ) and the shoulder straps 21 .
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 there is shown a second major embodiment of protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training according to the present invention, in the form of a thigh protector 40 .
  • the thigh protector 40 is constructed, and intended for operation in, essentially the same manner as that discussed above with reference to the torso protector 10 , and like reference numerals are thus utilised to denote like components.
  • the thigh protector 40 differs from the torso protector 10 in that it does not comprise a central portion 15 , upper portion 17 and lower portion 18 . Instead, the thigh protector 40 is formed with a generally cylindrical profile, but with a slanting upper face 41 to provide a comfortable fit for the user.
  • the thigh protector 40 may be constructed with the upper face 41 slanted in either a left or right orientation, so as to be worn on either the user's left or right thigh.
  • the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is intended to be worn on a user's right thigh.
  • the thigh protector is provided with a single thigh strap 42 adapted to be secured around the user's inner thigh.
  • FIG. 6 this shows the thigh protector 40 being worn by a user 30 , ready for participation in martial arts spar training.
  • the thigh protector 40 wraps around the user's thigh in the same manner as described above with reference to the torso protector 10 , facilitated by the segmented construction of the protector 40 .
  • the thigh protector 40 is held in place on the user's thigh by the thigh strap 42 (not visible in FIG. 6 ) passing around the user's inner thigh, so that the strike surface 11 remains oriented outwards.
  • the right-oriented slant of the upper face 41 complements the shape of the user's body, leaving the hip region unencumbered.
  • FIG. 7 this shows the user 30 wearing both the torso protector 10 according to the first major embodiment of the present invention, and the thigh protector 40 according to the second major embodiment of the present invention, ready for participation in martial arts spar training.
  • the strike surface 11 thus extends over a larger area of the user's body, and thus the area of the user's body which is protected is also increased.
  • the slanting upper face 41 now also complements the shape of the torso protector 10 , having regard to the lower portion 18 thereof.
  • a left-oriented thigh protector 40 may also be provided in order to provide a still larger strike surface 11 , and thus a still larger protected area.
  • thigh protector 40 may easily be further adapted to form a (left or right oriented) shin protector, upper arm protector or forearm protector. In this way, each area of the body can be protected by protective apparel according to the present invention, either individually or in combination.

Abstract

Protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training exercises involving contact between two participants, such as pad work or spar training, comprises a strike surface (11) carried on an inflatable bladder (12), and securing means (21-23) to enable the apparel (10, 40) to be worn by a user (30) during spar training. During use, the inflatable bladder (12) is inflated to a sufficient pressure to withstand strikes from a sparring partner. The protective apparel may take the form of a torso protector (10) or thigh protector (40), or other variants. These may be worn by the user (30) either alone or in combination to increase the area of the strike surface (11), and thus also increase the area of the user's body (30) which is protected.

Description

  • This invention relates to protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training. In particular, it relates to protective apparel adapted to be worn by a user during martial arts training exercises involving contact between two participants, such as pad work or spar training. The term “spar training” is used broadly herein to refer to any martial arts training exercise involving contact between two participants, and thus includes pad work within its scope.
  • Spar training, often referred to simply as sparring, is an essential part of martial arts training utilised in practically all forms of martial art. It allows a trainee to practice and develop their skills against an actual opponent, though in a strictly regulated environment, rather than against a static, artificial opponent such as a dummy or punch-bag. In addition to its use in martial arts, spar training has also gained popularity in general fitness training.
  • Clearly, the protection of participants against injury is of great importance in any spar training encounter. A wide range of protective apparel has been developed, which varies in construction according to the part of the body to be protected, and the form of martial art for which it is intended. The aim of such protective apparel is to attenuate the impact of strikes (punches, kicks etc.) received from one's spar training partner, and this is generally achieved by the use of some form of compressible foam.
  • Compressible foam protective apparel does however suffer from a number of drawbacks. In particular, the presence of a solid medium—whatever its shock-absorbing properties—in contact with the user's body, means that some force from the impact will still be transferred to the user. The risk of injury can thus only be reduced rather than eliminated. For the same reason, the risk of injury to the hand or foot of the spar training partner performing a strike also remains. Additionally, the wear and tear caused by repeated striking will eventually take its toll on the apparel, resulting either in the compressible foam becoming fatigued (i.e. failing to expand back to its initial state following impact) or the apparel becoming damaged. Either of these occurrences will expose the user to the risk of potentially serious injury. This problem can be compounded by the fact that the apparel may show no visible signs of having failed.
  • In addition to the risk of injury associated with such unsatisfactory protection, the quality and efficacy of spar training can also be adversely affected. That is to say, because of the known shortcomings of compressible foam protective apparel as outlined above, users tend to limit the power which they impart to strikes, so as to avoid injuring themselves or their partner.
  • The applicant's co-pending UK patent application no. 10 16826.8 discloses inflatable martial arts training apparatus intended to be removably mounted on a structural element within a building, for the performance of martial arts or fitness training exercises involving a user punching and/or kicking the apparatus.
  • It has now been realised that sufficient pressure within such an inflatable bladder can withstand even the extreme forces associated with being punched or kicked by a martial arts master. Moreover, the shock-attenuating properties provided by an inflated bladder have been found to be superior to those associated with compressible foam. The present invention thus seeks to provide inflatable personal protection for use in spar training which overcomes the shortcomings of compressible foam protective apparel, and provides increased protection against injury, whilst enabling users to impart full power to their strikes during spar training. The present invention further seeks to provide a lightweight, easily portable and collapsible alternative to conventional protective apparel.
  • The present invention has been developed for use in martial arts spar training, and will therefore be described herein with particular emphasis on this intended use. Nevertheless, it is envisaged that the present invention may also be adapted for use in relation to other contact sports, or indeed for use in any environment where protective apparel is desirable.
  • According to the present invention there is provided protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training, comprising:
      • a strike surface carried on an inflatable bladder; and
      • securing means to enable the apparel to be worn by a user during said training;
      • wherein, during use, the inflatable bladder is inflated to a sufficient pressure to withstand strikes (punches and kicks) from a training partner, without causing injury to said user.
  • The inflatable bladder may be inflated either prior to the user donning the protective apparel, or once the apparel is in situ on the user's body. It is however essential that inflation of the bladder to the required pressure be carried out prior to the commencement of spar training. Inflation of the bladder may be carried out either orally, using conventional air pumps, or by the provision of canisters of pressurised air or other gas.
  • The strike surface is preferably three-dimensional, and most preferably has a generally cylindrical profile. This is preferably achieved by forming the inflatable bladder such that it adopts a generally cylindrical profile on inflation.
  • The inflatable bladder preferably comprises one or more strengthening ribs, located internally thereof. The strengthening ribs serve to impart greater resistance against damage and so prolong the useful life of the protective apparel. Most preferably, said strengthening ribs divide the inflatable bladder into a plurality of chambers, thereby imparting a segmented structure to the apparel. This segmented structure also assists in providing the generally cylindrical profile.
  • The protective apparel may be formed with each said chamber being individually sealed, which would necessitate each individual chamber being provided with its own inflation valve. However, it is generally preferred that each said chamber will in fact be in fluid communication with its adjacent chamber(s), such that air may flow from one chamber to another, with the inflatable bladder being provided with a single inflation valve. This enables the bladder to be inflated to a higher pressure than would otherwise be attainable, thus giving enhanced protection. Moreover, allowing air to flow from one chamber to another has been found to enhance the shock-attenuating properties of the inflated bladder, by means of a process known as pneumatic energy dissipation (PED).
  • Two or more inflatable bladders, each having an inflation valve associated therewith, maybe provided. Each inflatable bladder may comprise a plurality of interconnected segmented chambers.
  • The protective apparel, and the inflatable bladder which forms an integral component thereof, are preferably formed from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and/or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This may desirably take the form of TPU or PVC coated fabric material. The seams and joints of the apparel are preferably joined by ultrasonic welding, in order to provide maximum strength without the need for additional components or materials to achieve the joining.
  • In order to protect the or each inflation valve, each said valve is preferably located on a surface other than the strike surface. The or each inflation valve is preferably a quick release valve to facilitate speedy deflation of the device following a training session.
  • The securing means to enable the protective apparel to be worn by a user preferably comprises one or more straps. Most preferably, said one or more straps are provided with complementary quick release buckle fasteners.
  • In a first major embodiment of protective apparel according to the present invention, the apparel is adapted to be worn on a user's torso, and comprises: a generally cylindrical central portion adapted to wrap around said user's torso such that the strike surface extends over the front thereof; an upper portion adapted to protect said user's chest region; and a lower portion adapted to protect said user's groin region; each of said upper and lower portions extending from the generally cylindrical central portion.
  • The strike surface preferably extends over said generally cylindrical central portion and said upper and lower portions. The inflatable bladder preferably extends throughout said generally cylindrical central portion and said upper and lower portions.
  • In said first major embodiment, the securing means preferably comprises a pair of parallel straps adapted to be secured across a user's back region. Alternatively, or additionally, the securing means may comprise a pair of parallel straps adapted to be secured over a user's shoulder region.
  • In a second major embodiment of protective apparel according to the present invention, the protective apparel is adapted to be worn on a user's leg or arm, and is adapted to wrap around said user's leg or arm such that the strike surface extends outwardly thereof.
  • In said second major embodiment, the securing means preferably comprises one or more straps adapted to be secured over an inner face of said leg or arm.
  • It is envisaged that said first and second major embodiments may be utilised together, so as to increase the area of the strike surface and thus provide protection to the user over a greater area of the body. Accordingly, the present invention also provides a protective apparel kit comprising an article of protective apparel for a user's torso as hereinbefore described, and one or more articles of protective apparel for a user's leg(s) and/or arm(s), as hereinbefore described.
  • In order that the present invention may be more clearly understood, a preferred embodiment thereof will now be described in detail, though only by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
  • FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of protective apparel according to a first major embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 2 shows a rear perspective view of the protective apparel of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 shows a front perspective view of a user wearing the protective apparel of FIGS. 1 and 2;
  • FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of protective apparel according to a second major embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 5 shows a rear perspective view of the protective apparel of FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 6 shows a front perspective view of a user wearing the protective apparel of FIGS. 4 and 5; and
  • FIG. 7 shows a front perspective view of a user wearing both the protective apparel of FIGS. 1 and 2, and the protective apparel of FIGS. 4 and 5, in combination.
  • Referring first to FIG. 1, there is shown a first major embodiment of protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training according to the present invention, in the form of a torso protector 10. The torso protector 10 comprises a three dimensional strike surface 11, carried on an inflatable bladder 12. A plurality of strengthening ribs 13 are provided internally within the bladder 12. In addition to providing enhanced strength to the torso protector 10, the strengthening ribs 13 also divide the bladder 12 into a plurality of chambers 14. As can be seen in FIG. 1, this imparts a segmented structure to the torso protector 10, which assists in the formation of the protector 10 with a generally cylindrical profile, thus enabling the protector 10 to wrap around the torso of a user. The individual chambers 14 of the inflatable bladder 12 may either be individually sealed, or more preferably may be in fluid communication with one another, such that air may pass from one chamber to another. This improves the shock-attenuating properties of the inflatable bladder 12 by employing pneumatic energy dissipation (PED).
  • The torso protector 10 is formed with a generally cylindrical central portion 15, intended to wrap around and protect the torso of a user. At the front 16 of the protector 10, are formed upper and lower portions 17, 18 extending from the central portion 15. The upper portion 17 is intended to cover and protect a user's chest region, whilst the lower portion 18 is intended to cover and protect a user's groin region. The strike surface 11 extends over the central portion 15, the upper portion 17 and the lower portion 18. The inflatable bladder 12 extends internally of the protector 10 throughout the central portion 15, the upper portion 17 and the lower portion 18.
  • Referring now to FIG. 2, it can be seen that the rear side of the torso protector 10 is provided with securing means to enable the protector 10 to be worn by a user during said spar training. The securing means takes the form of a pair of shoulder straps 21, an upper back strap 22, and a lower back strap 23, each securely affixed to the protector at an anchor point 24. The shoulder straps 21 are designed to pass over a user's shoulders thereby to retain the protector 10 in place on the user's torso. The upper and lower back straps 22, 23 are designed to pass around a user's back and serve to retain the protector 10 in place on the user's torso, and prevent movement of the protector 10 on the torso.
  • Each strap 21, 22, 23 is provided with a male buckle member 25 constituting one half of a plastic quick release buckle mechanism of familiar construction, each said male buckle member 25 being adapted to engage with a complementary female buckle member 26 affixed to the protector at an anchor point 24. As can be seen, the female buckle members 26 associated with the shoulder straps 21 may share an anchor point 24 with the upper back strap 22, and the female buckle member 26 associated therewith. The quick release buckle mechanisms 25, 26 also enable adjustment of the length of each strap 21, 22, 23 to fit users of differing sizes and to tighten or loosen the straps 21, 22, 23 during use, as required.
  • As can also be seen in FIG. 2, the protector 10 is provided with inflation valves 27 in communication with the internal inflatable bladder 12 and adapted to enable inflation and deflation thereof. In the example shown, two inflation valves 27 are provided, each adapted to inflate one side of the protector 10, with an internal partition (not shown) being provided in the inflatable bladder 12. The inflation valves 27 are provided on an upwardly facing surface of the protector 10 rather than on the strike surface 11, so as to prevent damage to the inflation valves 27 during use.
  • Referring now to FIG. 3, this shows the torso protector 10 being worn by a user 30, ready to participate in martial arts spar training. The protector 10 is wrapped around the torso of the user 30, facilitated by the segmented construction of the protector 10, as defined by the strengthening ribs 13 and chambers 14 of the inflatable bladder 12. The generally cylindrical central portion 15 thus wraps around the user's abdomen and sides, with the upper portion 17 extending to cover the user's chest region, and the lower portion 18 extending to cover the user's groin region. The protector is held in place by use of the back straps 22, 23 (not visible in FIG. 3) and the shoulder straps 21.
  • Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, there is shown a second major embodiment of protective apparel for use in martial arts or fitness training according to the present invention, in the form of a thigh protector 40. The thigh protector 40 is constructed, and intended for operation in, essentially the same manner as that discussed above with reference to the torso protector 10, and like reference numerals are thus utilised to denote like components. The thigh protector 40 differs from the torso protector 10 in that it does not comprise a central portion 15, upper portion 17 and lower portion 18. Instead, the thigh protector 40 is formed with a generally cylindrical profile, but with a slanting upper face 41 to provide a comfortable fit for the user. As will be appreciated, the thigh protector 40 may be constructed with the upper face 41 slanted in either a left or right orientation, so as to be worn on either the user's left or right thigh. The example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is intended to be worn on a user's right thigh. As can be seen in FIG. 5, the thigh protector is provided with a single thigh strap 42 adapted to be secured around the user's inner thigh.
  • Referring now to FIG. 6, this shows the thigh protector 40 being worn by a user 30, ready for participation in martial arts spar training. The thigh protector 40 wraps around the user's thigh in the same manner as described above with reference to the torso protector 10, facilitated by the segmented construction of the protector 40. The thigh protector 40 is held in place on the user's thigh by the thigh strap 42 (not visible in FIG. 6) passing around the user's inner thigh, so that the strike surface 11 remains oriented outwards. As can be seen, the right-oriented slant of the upper face 41 complements the shape of the user's body, leaving the hip region unencumbered.
  • Referring now to FIG. 7, this shows the user 30 wearing both the torso protector 10 according to the first major embodiment of the present invention, and the thigh protector 40 according to the second major embodiment of the present invention, ready for participation in martial arts spar training. The strike surface 11 thus extends over a larger area of the user's body, and thus the area of the user's body which is protected is also increased. As can be seen, the slanting upper face 41 now also complements the shape of the torso protector 10, having regard to the lower portion 18 thereof. It will be appreciated that a left-oriented thigh protector 40 may also be provided in order to provide a still larger strike surface 11, and thus a still larger protected area.
  • It will also be appreciated that the thigh protector 40 according to the second major embodiment of the present invention may easily be further adapted to form a (left or right oriented) shin protector, upper arm protector or forearm protector. In this way, each area of the body can be protected by protective apparel according to the present invention, either individually or in combination.

Claims (20)

1. Protective apparel for use in martial arts training, comprising:
a strike surface carried on an inflatable bladder; and
securing means to enable the apparel to be worn by a user during said training;
wherein, during use, the inflatable bladder is inflated to a sufficient pressure to withstand strikes from a training partner.
2. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 1, wherein the strike surface is three-dimensional.
3. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 2, wherein the strike surface has a generally cylindrical profile.
4. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 1, wherein said inflatable bladder is shaped so as on inflation to adopt a generally cylindrical profile.
5. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 1, wherein said inflatable bladder comprises at least one strengthening rib, located internally of the bladder.
6. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 5, wherein said at least one strengthening rib divides the inflatable bladder into a plurality of chambers, thereby imparting a segmented structure to the apparel.
7. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 6, wherein each said chamber is in fluid communication with its adjacent chamber.
8. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inflatable bladder is provided with an inflation valve.
9. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 8, wherein the inflation valve is located on a surface other than the strike surface.
10. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 8 9, wherein the inflation valve is a quick release valve.
11. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 1, wherein the securing means to enable said protective apparel to be worn by a user comprises at least one strap.
12. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 11, wherein said at least one strap is provided with complementary quick release buckle fasteners.
13. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 11, wherein the apparel is adapted to be worn on a user's torso, and comprises: a generally cylindrical central portion adapted to wrap around said user's torso such that the strike surface extends over the front thereof; an upper portion adapted to protect said user's chest region; and a lower portion adapted to protect said user's groin region; and wherein each of said upper and lower portions extends from the generally cylindrical central portion.
14. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 13, wherein the strike surface extends over said generally cylindrical central portion and said upper and lower portions.
15. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 14, wherein the inflatable bladder extends throughout said generally cylindrical central portion and said upper and lower portions.
16. The protective apparel as claimed in claims 13, wherein the securing means comprises a pair of parallel straps adapted to be secured across a user's back region.
17. The protective apparel as claimed in claims 13, wherein the securing means comprises a pair of parallel straps adapted to be secured over a user's shoulder region.
18. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 11, wherein the apparel is adapted to be worn on a user's limb, and is adapted to wrap around said user's limb such that the strike surface extends outwardly thereof.
19. The protective apparel as claimed in claim 18, wherein the securing means comprises at least one strap adapted to be secured over an inner face of said limb.
20. A protective apparel kit comprising the protective apparel as claimed in claim 13, and at least one article of protective apparel adapted to be worn on a user's limb, and adapted to wrap around said user's limb such that the strike surface extends outwardly thereof.
US13/877,937 2010-10-06 2011-10-06 Protective apparel for martial arts training Abandoned US20130185852A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1016826.8A GB2484320B (en) 2010-10-06 2010-10-06 Martial arts training apparatus
GB1016826.8 2010-10-06
PCT/GB2011/051919 WO2012046070A1 (en) 2010-10-06 2011-10-06 Protective apparel for martial arts training

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20130185852A1 true US20130185852A1 (en) 2013-07-25

Family

ID=43243600

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/877,950 Expired - Fee Related US9227127B2 (en) 2010-10-06 2011-09-14 Martial arts training apparatus
US13/877,937 Abandoned US20130185852A1 (en) 2010-10-06 2011-10-06 Protective apparel for martial arts training

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/877,950 Expired - Fee Related US9227127B2 (en) 2010-10-06 2011-09-14 Martial arts training apparatus

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (2) US9227127B2 (en)
EP (2) EP2624922A1 (en)
GB (2) GB2484320B (en)
WO (2) WO2012046015A1 (en)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2015027045A1 (en) * 2013-08-22 2015-02-26 Stryko Limited Harness for martial arts training, professional mixed martial arts and boxing training, combat training, fitness training, and striking training and practice
CN108786080A (en) * 2018-09-20 2018-11-13 国武时代国际文化传媒(北京)有限公司 Free-fighting partner-training protective device
US20200094124A1 (en) * 2018-09-20 2020-03-26 Heidi Specht Softball pitching thigh pad
US20210008427A1 (en) * 2018-06-07 2021-01-14 Ohad Kamil Punching device
US11338185B2 (en) * 2016-01-18 2022-05-24 Richard John Gray Sports training system and method
CN114646144A (en) * 2022-02-23 2022-06-21 青岛海尔空调器有限总公司 Auxiliary control method and device for boxing training, boxing training device and air conditioner
US11428505B2 (en) * 2012-12-19 2022-08-30 Grafton Schools, Inc. Blocking pad and a method of use thereof
US11865423B1 (en) 2022-03-22 2024-01-09 Myles Holliday Football player-worn target pad

Families Citing this family (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN102698421B (en) * 2012-07-05 2015-05-20 王森 Handheld cylindrical foot target for free combat
US20140128226A1 (en) * 2012-11-02 2014-05-08 Kuo Chi Chang Freestanding mixed martial arts training device
US10076697B1 (en) * 2014-03-20 2018-09-18 Mark W. Publicover Impact safety pad for trampoline
US9737780B1 (en) * 2014-05-16 2017-08-22 Bobby I. Khunkhun Ceiling mounted striking bag with flexible foam tube and optional tether system
US20150328521A1 (en) * 2014-05-16 2015-11-19 Bobby I Khunkhun Multi-Function Striking Bag and Mount
FR3042125A1 (en) * 2015-10-12 2017-04-14 Mounir Berbagui PUNCHING BAG, AIR BAG
WO2017192885A2 (en) * 2016-05-06 2017-11-09 Walterspiel Juan N Shock absorbing system
US10315092B2 (en) * 2016-06-07 2019-06-11 Yi-Lin Chen Striking training device
US10398958B2 (en) * 2016-10-06 2019-09-03 Raymond Rita Striking apparatus and configurations thereof
GB2570343B (en) * 2018-01-23 2022-08-31 Mcfarlane Daniel Training pad

Citations (39)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US745007A (en) * 1903-08-04 1903-11-24 George A Reach Body-protector.
US876237A (en) * 1907-04-16 1908-01-07 William Read & Sons Chest-protector.
US1657866A (en) * 1925-12-24 1928-01-31 Katherine M Tracy Protector for athletes
US1726939A (en) * 1927-03-14 1929-09-03 New York Rubber Corp Pneumatic cushion
US2664567A (en) * 1950-12-29 1954-01-05 John W Nichols Pneumatic boxing helmet
US2990549A (en) * 1959-04-29 1961-07-04 Ceola F Doughty Batter's protector
US3008214A (en) * 1957-01-22 1961-11-14 Us Rubber Co Flexible inflatable fabric and method of making the same
US3500472A (en) * 1968-05-13 1970-03-17 Joseph D Castellani Football and baseball equipment
US3759515A (en) * 1971-02-04 1973-09-18 T Crooks Yieldable body jousting bags
US3863343A (en) * 1971-09-24 1975-02-04 Oscar Malmin Dental patient drape
US3995320A (en) * 1975-07-18 1976-12-07 Zafuto Samuel L Protective jacket
US4095294A (en) * 1977-03-21 1978-06-20 Winterbottom Harold E Soft punch
US4233689A (en) * 1978-03-27 1980-11-18 Baron Stephen H Protective headgear
US4370754A (en) * 1978-07-27 1983-02-01 American Pneumatics Co. Variable pressure pad
US4453271A (en) * 1979-09-28 1984-06-12 American Pneumatics Co. Protective garment
US4547919A (en) * 1983-02-17 1985-10-22 Cheng Chung Wang Inflatable article with reforming and reinforcing structure
US4872215A (en) * 1988-02-22 1989-10-10 Willamena Sliger Chest protector
US4977623A (en) * 1989-05-01 1990-12-18 Demarco Vincent J User wearable inflatable garment
US4991230A (en) * 1989-08-25 1991-02-12 Vacanti Eugene J Shock absorbing body protective pads
US5893175A (en) * 1998-02-26 1999-04-13 Cooper; Eric Pneumatic torso armor and helmet
US5911310A (en) * 1998-04-23 1999-06-15 Bridgers; Leo W. Inflatable shin guard
US5937441A (en) * 1994-07-27 1999-08-17 Raines; Mark T. Weighted exercise and therapeutic suit
US5937447A (en) * 1997-10-06 1999-08-17 Howell; William J. Protective garment
US5978964A (en) * 1995-05-22 1999-11-09 Kerry R. Gaston Exercise apparel and associated weight
US6151715A (en) * 1999-09-14 2000-11-28 Doherty; Jocelyn M. Rehabilitation/training device
US6322482B1 (en) * 2000-06-14 2001-11-27 Jeong Se Kim Kick training belt
US6327710B1 (en) * 1999-11-22 2001-12-11 Earl E. Dunn Deflecting and protecting shield guard device
US20020010058A1 (en) * 1998-10-19 2002-01-24 Ronald Myrick Mobile weight
US20050037844A1 (en) * 2002-10-30 2005-02-17 Nike, Inc. Sigils for use with apparel
US7401787B1 (en) * 2004-11-12 2008-07-22 Juan Conte Inflatable combat arena game
US20080244801A1 (en) * 2007-04-03 2008-10-09 Russo Giacomo M Sport sock with integral shin guard
US7450007B2 (en) * 2005-10-03 2008-11-11 Chep Technology Pty Limited RFID asset identification systems
US20090282609A1 (en) * 2008-05-15 2009-11-19 Kotoske Thomas G Baseball catcher's equipment
US20090298035A1 (en) * 2008-05-30 2009-12-03 Bridget Lynch Childbirth teaching apparel
US20100137064A1 (en) * 2002-10-30 2010-06-03 Nike, Inc. Sigils for Use with Apparel
US7784116B2 (en) * 2006-07-27 2010-08-31 Reebok International Ltd. Padded garment
US7900282B2 (en) * 2006-01-03 2011-03-08 Rxr Protect Inflatable protection valve
US20110247127A1 (en) * 2010-04-12 2011-10-13 George Pou Adjustable Weighted Exercise Pants
US8365316B2 (en) * 2006-06-01 2013-02-05 Takata Corporation Airbag jacket

Family Cites Families (26)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2197545A (en) * 1938-10-31 1940-04-16 Michigan State Board Of Agricu Football dummy
BE626980A (en) 1962-01-10
US3550159A (en) * 1968-10-10 1970-12-29 Eugenio Alarco Impact-absorbent cellular structure
USRE28480E (en) * 1971-07-06 1975-07-15 Inflatable boxing glove or pillow
CA994051A (en) * 1971-07-06 1976-08-03 Victor Petrusek Inflatable boxing glove or pillow
US3831941A (en) * 1973-03-05 1974-08-27 J Pease Protective shock absorbing device for goalposts
FR2266581B1 (en) * 1973-05-03 1979-07-06 Soprec
US3958801A (en) * 1975-04-02 1976-05-25 Correa Ronald J Protective cushion for gymnastic equipment
DE7623114U1 (en) * 1976-07-22 1976-12-09 Hochstein, Alfred, 4150 Krefeld INFLATABLE STRUCTURE
US4198036A (en) * 1977-11-10 1980-04-15 Neal Larry O Inflatable protective cushion
DE2823370A1 (en) * 1978-05-29 1979-12-06 Helmut Degen Body shield for sports players - consists of cushioning with air filled tubular compartments connected by perforated seams
US4266298B1 (en) * 1980-01-31 1996-05-21 Mindey Marlene S Inflatable heel protector
US4596106A (en) * 1984-10-17 1986-06-24 Kunczynski Jan K Ski lift towe safety apron
US4714289A (en) * 1985-10-07 1987-12-22 Westinghouse Electric Corp. Gripper assembly
US5060641A (en) * 1990-12-07 1991-10-29 Physicians & Nurses Mfg. Co. Apparatus and method for the treatment of flexural deformities, contracted tendons, and angular limb deformities in foals
US5503606A (en) 1992-01-17 1996-04-02 Stephens; Thomas E. Training apparatus
US5445602A (en) * 1993-07-29 1995-08-29 Royce Medical Company Flexible ankle brace
US5330403A (en) 1993-09-03 1994-07-19 Kuo James Y Inflatable punching device
US6488323B1 (en) * 1996-04-18 2002-12-03 Frank's Casing Crew And Rental Tools, Inc. Apparatus for gripping oilfield tubulars without causing damage to such tubulars
US5899835A (en) 1997-10-27 1999-05-04 Puranda; Dennis C. Multifunctional training device
US6202213B1 (en) * 1999-09-03 2001-03-20 John J. Georgick Boxing glove with inflatable wrist cuff
US7302772B2 (en) * 2005-07-06 2007-12-04 Harrington Vernon H Combination writable scroll picture frame display assembly
CN200940406Y (en) * 2006-08-23 2007-08-29 吴天亿 Attached inflating door
US7758476B2 (en) * 2007-02-06 2010-07-20 Fitness Botics Inflatable cushion bag for striking
GB2461523B (en) * 2008-07-01 2010-06-16 Wai-Jim Ng Inflatable punching bag
GB2463537B (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-09-22 Yi-Lin Chen Boxing equipment

Patent Citations (39)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US745007A (en) * 1903-08-04 1903-11-24 George A Reach Body-protector.
US876237A (en) * 1907-04-16 1908-01-07 William Read & Sons Chest-protector.
US1657866A (en) * 1925-12-24 1928-01-31 Katherine M Tracy Protector for athletes
US1726939A (en) * 1927-03-14 1929-09-03 New York Rubber Corp Pneumatic cushion
US2664567A (en) * 1950-12-29 1954-01-05 John W Nichols Pneumatic boxing helmet
US3008214A (en) * 1957-01-22 1961-11-14 Us Rubber Co Flexible inflatable fabric and method of making the same
US2990549A (en) * 1959-04-29 1961-07-04 Ceola F Doughty Batter's protector
US3500472A (en) * 1968-05-13 1970-03-17 Joseph D Castellani Football and baseball equipment
US3759515A (en) * 1971-02-04 1973-09-18 T Crooks Yieldable body jousting bags
US3863343A (en) * 1971-09-24 1975-02-04 Oscar Malmin Dental patient drape
US3995320A (en) * 1975-07-18 1976-12-07 Zafuto Samuel L Protective jacket
US4095294A (en) * 1977-03-21 1978-06-20 Winterbottom Harold E Soft punch
US4233689A (en) * 1978-03-27 1980-11-18 Baron Stephen H Protective headgear
US4370754A (en) * 1978-07-27 1983-02-01 American Pneumatics Co. Variable pressure pad
US4453271A (en) * 1979-09-28 1984-06-12 American Pneumatics Co. Protective garment
US4547919A (en) * 1983-02-17 1985-10-22 Cheng Chung Wang Inflatable article with reforming and reinforcing structure
US4872215A (en) * 1988-02-22 1989-10-10 Willamena Sliger Chest protector
US4977623A (en) * 1989-05-01 1990-12-18 Demarco Vincent J User wearable inflatable garment
US4991230A (en) * 1989-08-25 1991-02-12 Vacanti Eugene J Shock absorbing body protective pads
US5937441A (en) * 1994-07-27 1999-08-17 Raines; Mark T. Weighted exercise and therapeutic suit
US5978964A (en) * 1995-05-22 1999-11-09 Kerry R. Gaston Exercise apparel and associated weight
US5937447A (en) * 1997-10-06 1999-08-17 Howell; William J. Protective garment
US5893175A (en) * 1998-02-26 1999-04-13 Cooper; Eric Pneumatic torso armor and helmet
US5911310A (en) * 1998-04-23 1999-06-15 Bridgers; Leo W. Inflatable shin guard
US20020010058A1 (en) * 1998-10-19 2002-01-24 Ronald Myrick Mobile weight
US6151715A (en) * 1999-09-14 2000-11-28 Doherty; Jocelyn M. Rehabilitation/training device
US6327710B1 (en) * 1999-11-22 2001-12-11 Earl E. Dunn Deflecting and protecting shield guard device
US6322482B1 (en) * 2000-06-14 2001-11-27 Jeong Se Kim Kick training belt
US20100137064A1 (en) * 2002-10-30 2010-06-03 Nike, Inc. Sigils for Use with Apparel
US20050037844A1 (en) * 2002-10-30 2005-02-17 Nike, Inc. Sigils for use with apparel
US7401787B1 (en) * 2004-11-12 2008-07-22 Juan Conte Inflatable combat arena game
US7450007B2 (en) * 2005-10-03 2008-11-11 Chep Technology Pty Limited RFID asset identification systems
US7900282B2 (en) * 2006-01-03 2011-03-08 Rxr Protect Inflatable protection valve
US8365316B2 (en) * 2006-06-01 2013-02-05 Takata Corporation Airbag jacket
US7784116B2 (en) * 2006-07-27 2010-08-31 Reebok International Ltd. Padded garment
US20080244801A1 (en) * 2007-04-03 2008-10-09 Russo Giacomo M Sport sock with integral shin guard
US20090282609A1 (en) * 2008-05-15 2009-11-19 Kotoske Thomas G Baseball catcher's equipment
US20090298035A1 (en) * 2008-05-30 2009-12-03 Bridget Lynch Childbirth teaching apparel
US20110247127A1 (en) * 2010-04-12 2011-10-13 George Pou Adjustable Weighted Exercise Pants

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11428505B2 (en) * 2012-12-19 2022-08-30 Grafton Schools, Inc. Blocking pad and a method of use thereof
WO2015027045A1 (en) * 2013-08-22 2015-02-26 Stryko Limited Harness for martial arts training, professional mixed martial arts and boxing training, combat training, fitness training, and striking training and practice
US9616310B2 (en) 2013-08-22 2017-04-11 Stryko Limited Harness for martial arts training, professional mixed martial arts and boxing training, combat training, fitness training, and striking training and practice
US11338185B2 (en) * 2016-01-18 2022-05-24 Richard John Gray Sports training system and method
US20210008427A1 (en) * 2018-06-07 2021-01-14 Ohad Kamil Punching device
CN108786080A (en) * 2018-09-20 2018-11-13 国武时代国际文化传媒(北京)有限公司 Free-fighting partner-training protective device
US20200094124A1 (en) * 2018-09-20 2020-03-26 Heidi Specht Softball pitching thigh pad
CN114646144A (en) * 2022-02-23 2022-06-21 青岛海尔空调器有限总公司 Auxiliary control method and device for boxing training, boxing training device and air conditioner
US11865423B1 (en) 2022-03-22 2024-01-09 Myles Holliday Football player-worn target pad

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US9227127B2 (en) 2016-01-05
GB2484320B (en) 2015-01-21
GB2484405A (en) 2012-04-11
WO2012046015A1 (en) 2012-04-12
GB201016826D0 (en) 2010-11-17
EP2624922A1 (en) 2013-08-14
EP2624923A1 (en) 2013-08-14
GB2484405B (en) 2015-04-01
GB2484320A (en) 2012-04-11
WO2012046070A1 (en) 2012-04-12
GB201117253D0 (en) 2011-11-16
US20130203564A1 (en) 2013-08-08

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20130185852A1 (en) Protective apparel for martial arts training
US7462142B1 (en) Inflatable mat having internal bungee cords
US7077794B1 (en) Inflatable exercise belt and method of use
US9616310B2 (en) Harness for martial arts training, professional mixed martial arts and boxing training, combat training, fitness training, and striking training and practice
US20100186154A1 (en) Impact reduction system
US7937770B1 (en) Inflatable swimsuit
CA2800989A1 (en) Lightweight and flexible protective equipment system
US4095294A (en) Soft punch
US8398574B1 (en) Athletic garment with inflatable cup protector assembly
US20040006806A1 (en) Bodily-injury protective garments and techniques
CN204688385U (en) A kind of lifesaving bracelet
US2609537A (en) Body protective pad for use in contact sports
WO2017075671A1 (en) Protective equipment with impact absorbing structure
CN211097442U (en) Boxing glove with wrist protecting structure
AU2004200051B2 (en) A Tackling Device
CN112675521B (en) Multi-airbag inflatable boxing glove capable of reducing and adjusting hitting buffer degree
US20170333775A1 (en) Blocking pad tackling dummy and method
US20140101813A1 (en) Sparring protection pads
JP7139554B1 (en) Rugby practice back protector
CN112973099A (en) A protector for physical training
US8341764B1 (en) Calf protector for rowers
CN218129890U (en) Sports leg guard device
US20180133576A1 (en) Blocking pad tackling dummy and method
JP6518092B2 (en) Martial Arts Training Equipment
KR101703687B1 (en) Protection device for sparring

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: RICHARDVINCE.COM LIMITED, UNITED KINGDOM

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:VINCE, RICHARD;WOODHEAD, ANDREW;SIGNING DATES FROM 20130301 TO 20130303;REEL/FRAME:030157/0721

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION