Sparring Dummy

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/167,109 filed 6 Apr. 2009 in the name of the same inventor.

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates to a human form sparring dummy with movable arms and a springy base.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0005] Numerous human form sparring dummies exist. However, conventional sparring dummies are stiffly affixed to their base, which tends to produce a somewhat less than satisfying sparring experience.

[0006] One embodiment of the invention addresses the foregoing with a human form sparring dummy that includes a torso along with a head and preferably movable arms attached to the torso. The sparring dummy also preferably is mounted on springy base. This springy base allows the dummy to be moved by strikes. The springy base also causes the dummy to rebound from this movement, providing a moving target for practicing strikes. As a result, the sparring dummy tends to provide a more satisfying sparring experience.

[0009] Existing human form sparring dummies do not provide a moving target and are boring to use. In contrast, the sparring dummy of the invention provides a moving target and is much more entertaining to use.

[0010] FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a human form sparring dummy according to the invention. Sparring dummy 1 includes torso 2 along with head 3 and preferably movable arms 4 attached to the torso.

[0011] In one embodiment, metal rods forming a cross shape are used as a framework for the torso, and heavy gauge wire is used as the framework for the arms. The wire preferably is attached to the metal cross shape at the dummy's shoulders. The framework can be wrapped with padding such as carpet padding and wrapped with tape such as duct tape. Solid padding can be used for the head. Clothing also can be placed on the dummy. This arrangement allows for significant movement of the arms at the shoulders. In addition, the arms can be bent and moved, for example at the elbows. This arrangement allows for positioning the sparring dummy in a wide range of stances. Strikes to the dummy's head and torso past the arms can be practiced. In addition, strikes for blocking and moving the arms can be practiced. In addition, boxing gloves preferably are placed on the ends of the arms for sparring dummies intended to be used for boxing practice.

[0012] In other embodiments, different materials and constructions can be used. These include but are not limited to injection molded rubber or plastic with joints for the arms and preferably elbows. Other accessories different from boxing gloves also can be used, for example but not limited to rattan armor for practicing kendo, a gi, and the like.

[0013] Sparring dummies of various sizes can be made. Larger ones can be provided for use by stronger, more experienced fighters. Smaller ones can be provided for use by children.

[0014] Sparring dummy 1 in FIG. 1 is mounted on springy base 5. This springy base allows the dummy to be moved by strikes. The springy base also causes the dummy to rebound from this movement, providing a moving target for practicing strikes.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, springy base 5 includes stand 6 and springy attachment 7 between the stand and the torso. In some embodiments, stand 6 is sufficiently heavy to keep the sparring dummy in place during strikes. In other embodiments, stand 6 can be bolted to the ground.

[0016] Springy attachment 7 can be made from any sufficiently strong and durable material with memory, for example spring metal, rubber, or elastic plastic. Other materials can be used. In a preferred embodiment, springy attachment 7 is a heavy duty metal spring.

[0017] While springy attachment 7 preferably is attached directly to torso 2 as shown, other structures such as legs can be interposed between the attachment and the torso.

[0018] In some embodiments, targets 8 can be placed at various locations on the sparring dummy. FIG. 1 shows one possible arrangement. Others are possible. These targets can be simple marking or colored material. Alternatively, the targets can include visual strike indicators such as lights, strike detectors, or both.

[0019] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of an optional controller for a human form sparring dummy according to the invention. In a preferred embodiment, the controller is in a separate housing from the sparring dummy and is connected to the sparring dummy's targets via wired communication, wireless communication, or any other communication arrangement.

[0020] Controller 10 preferably controls the strike indicators, receives strike data from the strike detectors, and/or outputs a score based on the strike data. Thus, the shown embodiment of controller 10 includes processor 11, memory 12 storing instructions and possibly target patterns (see below), target control input and output 13 for targets 14, and score output 15 for score display 16.

[0021] Controller 10 preferably can control the targets' visual strike indicators in a target pattern. This pattern can be random. Alternatively, the pattern could follow the strikes for a kata (i.e., practice routine) or the strikes that occurred in some previous fight, for example as shown by a video or DVD of a classic fight or boxing match. A user interface (not shown) can be provided for selecting one of these target patterns. Controller 10 preferably can generate and output a score based on strike data from the strike detectors that indicate how well a person followed the selected pattern.

[0022] Other types of controllers, control arrangements, target patterns, scoring systems, and the like can be used with the sparing dummy. Alternatively, the sparing dummy might not include any controller at all.

[0023] The sparring dummy optionally can be combined with other exercise equipment, for example but not limited to a sit up seat, elastic bands for resistance training, and the like.

[0024] The invention is in no way limited to the specifics of any particular embodiments and examples disclosed herein. For example, the terms “preferably,” “preferred embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “this embodiment,” “alternative embodiment,” “alternatively” and the like denote features that are preferable but not essential to include in embodiments of the invention. Many other variations are possible which remain within the content, scope and spirit of the invention, and these variations would become clear to those skilled in the art after perusal of this application.