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A bike saddle must fit

Measuring the seat bones

Lower saddle nose

Back-friendly tipping movement

We all know what it's like: aches and pains in the backside or dumbness in the perineal area can often be enough to spoil all the pleasure of cycling.

Ergonomic saddles are one possible remedy. An innovative example consists of the new active saddle models by ergonomic specialist SQlab from Strasslach. A team of urologists, spinal surgeons, graduate sports scientists and ergonomic experts have developed three concepts in the light of the very latest scientific findings, bringing them together in this line of saddles.

1. The bicycle saddle must fit as well as a pair of shoes. To this end, trained retailers measure the distance between the cyclists' seat bones to ensure that these are what they really do sit on. This ensures optimum distribution of saddle pressure, relieving the previous pressure points in the perineal area. Depending on the models, SQlab saddles are available in up to four different widths.
2. The lower saddle nose offers more space and greater freedom in the perineal and pubic area, thus preventing unpleasant numbness and pain.
3. The saddle and thus also the pelvis follows the natural pedalling action thanks to a cushioned additional side movement. This reduces the unpleasant saddle pressure and mobilises the vertebral discs, thus having an altogether back-friendly effect.

In our opinion, the active models can be particularly recommended on account of this healthy triple effect.

The active saddles are available for various bicycle types from well-stocked retailers. More information is available from www.sq-lab.com.

More tips for selecting your bicycle

Relief when reading

BookHolder

Familiar problem for bookworms: "How can I hold my book comfortably so I can read without tension and cramps?" Frequent, persistent incorrect posture results in backache sooner or later.

One smart solution is the BookHolder: in line with ergonomic principles, it permits "handsfree", relaxed reading in any position.

The BookHolder is available in two versions. The desktop model is fitted to worktops or tables. The freestanding model is on rollers and can be moved around easily. Many different possible settings bring your reading matter to the right position, so that you can sit upright with a straight back, for example. In bed you can read flat on your back or sitting up with a support for your back. You can turn the pages easily with one hand.

Available from ergonomic retailers, bookshops, under phone +49(0)6233/638 627 or from www.bookholder.de

The bookchair!

The bookchair

Bookchair is an appropriate, mobile aid for working at your desk. This reading aid encourages upright, active sitting as books or documents are held at the required slant. Practical feature: books are held open with two page holders and don't have to be held constantly in your hands. This helps to avoid awkward incorrect posture, preventing pain in your neck, back and shoulders.

The deckchair-style book stand is available in different versions and also suitable for desks used by children and youngsters.

Available from book shops, under phone +49(0)941/586 5230 or from www.bookchair.net

"Fit as aquatic creatures"

Card game for children to encourage more exercise

Fit as aquatic creatures

The people who developed this game are keen to encourage children to move. The lovingly designed cards show aquatic creatures such as crabs, penguins, turtles, seals or dolphins. The "Old Maid" in this case is the "Lazy Flounder". Every animal represents a certain exercise to train back-friendly movement – without finger wagging. Three different games can be played: Happy Families, Memory and a knowledge quiz. The card game is used for pleasure and education during sports lessons in kindergartens and schools or in activities offered by back schools. At home, it encourages siblings, parents and grandparents to keep moving, something that tends to be increasingly neglected.

Available under phone +49(0)381/690 111 or from www.vital-physio.de