We sit all the time: on the way to work, in the office, in waiting rooms and at home on the couch. Most people in Germany have a sedentary job. This means that they sit for more than four and a half hours a day and do not get any exercise. The number of “permanent sitters” is steadily increasing, according to a study published in 2020 by the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC) in Madrid, Spain. According to the study, the proportion of sedentary professions rose by 7.4 percent between 2002 and 2017. In Germany, two thirds of men and half of women work predominantly in a seated position.
Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death
Why is prolonged sitting unhealthy? First of all, the low calorie consumption. If you sit a lot, your cardiovascular system and metabolism are constantly running in energy-saving mode, which can lead to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in the long term. Sitting a lot also puts a strain on the leg veins, causes the muscles to shrink and sometimes leads to poorer posture, which in turn can lead to tension and joint problems. Finally, prolonged sitting also leads to increased fatigue and reduces concentration.
US researcher James Levine therefore compares the harmful effects of sitting with smoking and has coined the slogan: “Sitting is the new smoking!”. This conclusion cannot be completely dismissed. Looking at the causes of death in Germany, it is clear that one in three people die from diseases of the circulatory system – and sitting a lot is likely to play a part in this, along with a poor diet and an unhealthy lifestyle (too much alcohol, smoking, sugar).
Integrated pedal system for cardiovascular training
The TWIKE promotes fitness. Although the riders also sit while riding, there are two key differences: they sit ergonomically and can move while riding. And movement is the key to preventing diseases of the circulatory system. The pedals in the TWIKE allow ergonomic support and therefore back-friendly sitting, but also faster reaction in the event of emergency braking (pedaling backwards regulates the hydraulic braking system with the pedal pressure). When pedaling forwards, you can do simple circuit training as well as increase your range depending on your preference and other riding style.
The function of the pedal generator is similar to that of an ergometer, but the energy generated can also be used for the ride afterwards. Pedaling can increase the range by up to 10 percent (depending on the riding style). The physical activity also leads to increased attention in traffic.
Ergonomic sitting position prevents postural problems
The sitting position on the TWIKE supports the natural curvature of the cervical and lumbar spine (lordosis). The simultaneous support of the legs by the pedals promotes blood circulation and avoids excessive strain on the leg veins. The TWIKE sports program can be used both while riding and when stationary. It is therefore perfectly possible to pedal and charge the battery while stationary, both in the red phase and in the garage. A direct link with fitness apps is planned for the future.
