Sports training system and method

Abstract

A training system for developing tackle technique and tackle follow-up technique includes a combination on a field of a first padded tackling training apparatus for targeted training at a first level corresponding to a relatively low body height, a second padded tackling training apparatus for targeted training at a second level corresponding to a medial body height; and a third padded tackling training apparatus for targeted training at a third level corresponding a relatively high body height facilitates coaching of improved technique for tackling and follow-up technique in contact sports, particularly in American football. The system and apparatus enables technique at a targeted tackling height to be coached and has features to facilitate follow-up actions and thereby providing more effective and safe tackling at a range of targeted heights for use in game play.

1 . A padded tackling training apparatus for targeted training of tackle technique tackle follow-up technique, the padded tackling training apparatus having, the padded tackling training apparatus having a padded elongate body with a base end and a top end, and defining the length between the base end and the top end, the padded elongate body being substantially uniform in shape along the length and self-standing on the base end, at least two gripping features in the form of elongate members each having a gripping feature length and attached to the padded elongate body as protrusions, each of the at least two gripping features extending along at least 80% of the length between the base end to the top end, each of the at least two gripping features in the form of elongated member joined along a side surface the first apparatus padded elongate body in a direction from the base to the top end and each of at least two gripping features having a width of from 3 to 15 cm and a radial depth of 3 to 15 cm relative to the width, and being a plastic outer coating that is internally padded with a foam material and with a cross-sectional shape that is spherical, semispherical, or cuboidal that makes holding one of the at least two gripping features difficult for the player
 whereby the player develops the tackle technique and tackle follow-up in American football.   
     
     
         2 . The training apparatus according to  claim 1  having a weight in the range of from 10 to 30 kg and an apparatus length from 50 to 90 cm. 
     
     
         3 . The training apparatus according to  claim 1  further comprising a guiding flange member that is a toroidal or truncated tubular member configured to snugly fit over and to be movable along the length of the elongate body. 
     
     
         4 . The training apparatus according to  claim 3 , wherein the guiding flange has a profile corresponding to the profile of the elongate body. 
     
     
         5 . The training apparatus according to  claim 1 , further comprising an elongate enclosed cavity within the padded elongate body, the elongate enclosed cavity containing a mobile material occupying a portion of the cavity, wherein on change of a direction of a force affecting the training apparatus, the mobile material is caused to move along the elongate enclosed cavity. 
     
     
         6 . The training apparatus according to  claim 1 , further comprising an interchangeable core. 
     
     
         7 . The training apparatus according to  claim 1 , further comprising a ball retaining belt.