Squat training device

1. A squat training device, comprising:

a generally planar base having a generally vertically-oriented sidewall, the base being shaped to receive a foot of a user;

a plurality of straps coupled to the base and configured to secure the foot to the base;

a vertical member having a first end and a second, opposing end; and

a breakaway connecting means disposed directly between the sidewall of the base and the first end of the vertical member,

the first end of the vertical member being detachably coupled to the sidewall of the base by the breakaway connecting means, the vertical member extending upwardly from the base,

the vertical member being detachable from the base at the breakaway connecting means when the vertical member is urged away from the base by a knee of the user that is one the same leg as the foot.

2. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein the breakaway connecting means comprises at least one of hook-and-loop fasteners, clips, tabs, magnets and fasteners, and wherein a portion of the breakaway connecting means remains attached to the sidewall of the base when the vertical member is urged away from the base.

3. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein the vertical member further includes a knee shield.

4. The squat training device of claim 3 wherein the knee shield further includes at least one of a size indicator, logo, trademark or design.

5. The squat training device of claim 3 wherein the knee shield is generally contoured.

6. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein the straps extend through apertures formed generally transverse to a longitudinal axis of the base.

7. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein a top portion of the base includes traction features.

8. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein a top portion of the base includes a rim about a perimeter thereof.

9. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein a bottom portion of the base includes a tread.

10. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein a bottom portion of the base includes a cut-away section.

11. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein the vertical member provides a user with at least one of visual, tactile and aural indication of exercise form.

12. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein the vertical member includes an attachment portion generally conforming to the base.

13. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein the vertical member is adjustable in length.

14. The squat training device of claim 1 wherein the straps are coupled to at least one buckle joined to the base.

15. A squat training device, comprising:

a generally planar base having a generally vertically-oriented sidewall, the base being shaped to receive a foot of a user;

a plurality of straps coupled to the base with hook-and-loop fasteners and configured to secure the foot to the base;

a vertical member having a first end and a second, opposing end, the second end further including a knee shield; and

a breakaway connecting means disposed directly between a surface of the sidewall of the base and a surface of the first end of the vertical member,

the first end of the vertical member being detachably coupled to the sidewall of the base by the breakaway connecting means, the vertical member extending upwardly from the base,

the vertical member being detachable from the base at the breakaway connecting means when the vertical member is urged away from the base by a knee of the user that is one the same leg as the foot.

16. The squat training device of claim 15 wherein a top portion of the base includes traction features.

17. The squat training device of claim 15 wherein a top portion of the base includes a rim about a perimeter thereof.

18. The squat training device of claim 15 wherein a bottom portion of the base includes a tread.

19. The squat training device of claim 15 wherein the vertical member provides a user with at least one of visual, tactile and aural indication of exercise form.