Tools and Machines

A boom in windsurfing is a horizontal bar that wraps around the sail and is used to control its angle and shape. It is attached to the mast and provides a grip for the windsurfer to steer and adjust speed by pulling in or letting out the sail. The boom allows for precise handling of the sail, making it an essential part of a windsurfing rig. It is usually made of lightweight but strong materials like aluminum or carbon fiber.

A universal joint is a mechanical part that connects two shafts, allowing them to rotate at different angles while transmitting power. It is commonly used in vehicles, bicycles, and some sports equipment where flexible movement is needed. The joint helps transfer motion smoothly even when the connected parts are not perfectly aligned, reducing stress on the system. It is often found in steering systems, drive shafts, and other moving parts that require flexibility.

A fencing bag is a specialized bag designed to carry and protect fencing equipment, including swords, protective gear, and clothing. It is usually long and durable, with compartments to keep items organized and prevent damage. Some fencing bags have wheels and shoulder straps for easier transport, making it convenient for fencers to carry their gear to training or competitions.

A golf bag is a bag designed to carry and organize golf clubs, balls, and other accessories. It usually has several compartments to keep clubs separated and pockets for storing items like tees, gloves, and personal belongings. Some golf bags have stands to keep them upright on the course, while others are designed to be carried or attached to a cart for easier transport.

A surfboard bag is a protective cover designed to carry and store a surfboard. It helps prevent damage from impacts, sun exposure, and saltwater while transporting or storing the board. These bags come in different sizes and thicknesses, with padding for extra protection and handles or straps for easy carrying. Some also have pockets for storing surf accessories like wax and fins.

A block in gymnastics is a firm, rectangular or trapezoid-shaped mat used for practice. Gymnasts step or jump onto the block to practice techniques such as vaulting, flipping, or balance. The block helps with strength, coordination, and technique by providing a stable surface for exercises and improving a gymnast's ability to execute movements with control and precision. It is often used in training to build confidence and develop proper form before attempting more advanced skills.

A landing mat is a large, cushioned mat used in various sports like gymnastics, wrestling, and diving to provide a safe surface for athletes to land on after performing jumps, flips, or other movements. The mat helps absorb the impact of the landing, reducing the risk of injury. It is typically thick and soft, offering support while ensuring a stable surface for athletes to land on after completing their routines or exercises. Landing mats are essential for safety during training and competitions.

A folding panel mat is a type of mat used in sports like gymnastics and martial arts, designed to provide a cushioned surface for athletes to land on or practice various movements. It is made up of several panels that can be folded for easy storage and transportation. The mat is typically thick enough to absorb the impact of jumps or falls, offering safety and support during training or competitions. Folding panel mats are versatile and convenient, often used in gyms or home workout areas.

An incline mat is a type of mat used in sports and fitness activities, often for exercises like stretching, gymnastics, or physical therapy. It is designed with a slanted surface to help with body positioning, making movements such as jumps or rolls easier to perform. The mat provides a soft, padded area for practicing skills or recovery exercises, offering extra support during training. Incline mats are typically lightweight and easy to move, making them ideal for use in gyms, training centers, or at home.

A crash mat is a thick, cushioned mat used in sports and activities to provide safety during high-impact movements, such as falls or jumps. It helps reduce the risk of injury by absorbing the shock from a fall, making it ideal for gymnastics, martial arts, or acrobatics. Crash mats are typically large, soft, and durable, offering a protective surface for athletes while practicing stunts or complex movements. They are commonly found in training spaces, gyms, and fitness centers.

A beam pad is a soft, cushioned mat used in gymnastics to provide extra comfort and safety during practice on a balance beam. It is typically placed next to or underneath the beam to help protect gymnasts in case of a fall. Beam pads are designed to be firm enough to provide stability while also soft enough to reduce the risk of injury. They are especially helpful for beginners or when practicing new skills. These pads help create a safer training environment for athletes working on balance and coordination.

A pitching machine is a device used in baseball and softball to automatically throw pitches to batters for practice. It can be adjusted to throw balls at different speeds, angles, and types of pitches, such as fastballs, curveballs, or sliders. The machine typically uses a motorized system to launch the ball toward the batter, allowing them to practice their timing and hitting technique. Pitching machines are commonly used in training sessions to help batters improve their reaction time and consistency without needing another person to pitch.

A baseball robot is a machine designed to mimic the movements of a human pitcher, used for training purposes in baseball. It can throw baseballs at varying speeds, angles, and types of pitches, such as fastballs or curveballs, to help players practice their hitting skills. These robots are often used in professional training facilities and sports academies, where they provide consistent, repetitive pitches for batters to work on their timing and technique. Baseball robots are especially useful in helping players improve their performance without the need for human pitchers.

A stringing machine is a device used to string sports equipment, such as tennis rackets, badminton rackets, or racquetball rackets. It helps stretch and attach strings to the frame of the racket with consistent tension. The machine holds the racket in place while the user threads the strings through the frame and tightens them to a specific tension for optimal performance. Stringing machines are commonly used by professionals, coaches, and enthusiasts to ensure the racket strings are properly adjusted for the player's needs, improving their control and power during play.