Swopper –

Sitting in Motion
An introduction to fluid,
e n e rgized movement for a healthy back
 Swopper –
Sitting in Motion
An introduction to fl u i d ,
e n e rgized movement for a healthy back

Swopper Introduction ........................................................................3

What Is Swopper? ................................................................................4

Why Swopper? ....................................................................................4

Who Can Benefit From Swopper? ......................................................5

Personalize Your Swopper..................................................................6

Health Benefits ....................................................................................6

Sitting Is Believing ..............................................................................7

Sitting Instructions..............................................................................8

Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................10

Models Available................................................................................12

Fabric Information ............................................................................13

Contact Information..........................................................................13

Warranty Information........................................................................14

Policies & Conditions........................................................................14

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We spend almost two-thirds of our waking hours sitting down – working, driving, eating,
relaxing, even playing. Human beings were not built for such a static, sedentary lifestyle,
especially in fixed, motionless postures now known to be potential risk factors for chronic
musculoskeletal problems (most notably spinal pain). That’s why low back pain and other
musculoskeletal problems are at epidemic proportions.

Numerous chair companies have designed their chairs around the concept of total and
complete STATIC support, thinking that the more support the user has (and thus
less motion), the better the seating device. Unfortunately, this
only serves to perpetuate the problem, leading the user
down the road to face more of the problems that a
sedentary lifestyle has to offer.

The “evolution” of seating has finally produced a

better way to sit – Swopper!

Swopper was developed by a German structural

engineer and a world-class physiotherapist. This
husband and wife team, Joseph and Dorle Gloeckl,
combined both of their unique talents to bring about the
revolutionary Swopper. After years of treating patients for
spinal pain, caused mainly by their bad sitting habits at work
(sitting statically with poor posture for long periods of time),
Mrs. Gloeckl realized that she needed to offer some new
treatment and relief. Understanding the physiological needs of the
spine, she and her husband set out to create a therapeutic, energizing, pain
relieving “platform” for those people who were truly interested in solving
their spinal problems.

Swopper utilizes all of the principals of the physio-ball in a stable, more

adjustable format. The physio-ball is a mainstay within the physical
therapy world. It allows the user to move randomly in multiple planes. This
keeps the spinal musculature and joints healthy and active. However, the
physio-ball also brings with it many hidden risks. Many people are unable
to sit on the physio-ball due to clothing choices, work surface heights and
space requirements. Swopper effectively solves all of these problems
by allowing users of all shapes and sizes to effectively
institute healthy sitting habits (with the added
benefits of versatility and stability). We call
this “sitting in motion.”

If you listen carefully to your customers,

many will say: “I feel exhausted after
sitting all day – and my back hurts, too!”
Then they ask in wonder: “Why do I feel
like this?” The answer lies in the rules

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that govern the physiology of the spine, and can be distilled down to one simple word –
MOTION! Static postures are damaging to the spine. Creating a lifestyle that allows us to move
frequently improves our overall health. Swopper addresses the real issues (physiology of the
spine) that cause people to suffer from the ravages of static sitting by providing a truly unique
alternative to traditional seating.

Swopper is endorsed world-wide by orthopedic surgeons, chiropractors, physical therapists,

ergonomists, etc. Swopper’s adjustability to numerous applications allows people of different
height and weight (up to 290 lbs) to enjoy the benefits of sitting in motion. In addition to
Swopper having received national and international recognition for its design and function
(by designer Henner Jahns), many simply enjoy Swopper for its contemporary, modern look.

In addition to bringing out the child in all of us, Swopper allows for the release of the body’s
intrinsic energy through its patented multi-dimensional movement. It gives you the daily
maintenance required to promote a healthier, stronger spine, stronger lower back muscles,
proper posture, improved circulation to the legs and improved nutrition to the intervertebral
discs. The sensation Swopper creates feels like you are “floating” over the floor – making
shifting from position to position, smooth and effortless.

‘Sitting in Motion’ with Swopper is wonderful for the body and mind!

W h at is Swo p p e r ?
Swopper is the next step in seating. Simply stated, Swopper is an “evolutionary” new concept
in sitting that allows the user to access movement in all planes during a seated task. We refer
to this as “Sitting in Motion”. Swopper allows you to tilt, sway and bounce simultaneously.
This natural, fluid motion gives you access to several amazing health benefits: keeping spinal
joints lubricated, maintaining proper postural alignment (conventional “static” seating often
only serves to “de-condition” the intrinsic muscles of the spine and back by restricting
motion), and promoting spinal mobility (keeping the natural forward curve).

We believe that Swopper is the only seating ‘platform’ in the

world which truly promotes proper human sitting behavior.

W hy Swo p p e r ?
Swopper gives the user the ability to move within all planes of motion. As has been previously
discussed, Swopper’s motion enhances the physiology of the spinal joints and muscles by
giving the user critical access to motion. The user is thus able to keep the natural forward
curve in the lumbar area and still move freely. Additionally, Swopper’s intuitive seatpan allows
the user to tilt the pelvis forward, backward and from side to side. The forward curve in the
lumbar spine keeps the pressure (“load”) off of the discs. As a result, those suffering with
painful discs find soothing relief. Furthermore, Swopper activates the musculature of the
spine, keeping muscles active and healthy. This provides stability to the spine, and decreases
the fatigue of static postures.

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Finally, Swopper promotes healthy posture. Postural habits account for a large proportion of
spinal problems. When you sit on Swopper every day you are actively and regularly
“imprinting” healthy postures. Over time this will become the user’s “regular” posture, much
like their current bad posture is their “regular” posture.

Sitting on Swopper will change your customers’ postural habits!

Who can benefit from sitting on Swopper –

and we Recommended fo r :
here might it be used?
Back & Neck Pain Sufferers Musicians
Physicians & Therapists Artists
Architects & Industrial Designers Dentists
Ergonomists (for education) Students
Hobby Enthusiasts (quilting/sewing) Educators
Children with ADD Lab Technicians
General Service Technicians Nail Care
Professionals
and anywhere you sit…

Areas of use:
(in the home) (in the of fice)
Home Office General Task Seating
Kitchen & Dining Room Computer Workstations
Great Room / Game Room CAD Workstations
Children’s Desk Chair Sit/Stand Workstations
Conference Rooms
Reception Area
(other areas of use)
Light Manufacturing & Assembly
QC & Packing Tables
Trade Shows
Restaurants & Cafes
Corporate Premium & Incentive Programs

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Pe r sonalize Your Swo p p e r
Adjustment Features
Swopper can be fully adjusted to your personal pre f e rence in three diff e rent ways:

Seat Height – 22" to 271⁄2" (with no one sitting on the seat)

Spring Tension – the “bounce” in the seat is adjustable for people up to 290 lbs
Lateral Movement – the range of motion (from side to side, forwards and
backwards) can be adjusted to suit
your individual need and comfort.

Technical Specifications
Seat Width – 16" diameter
Base Width – 211⁄2" diameter
Chair Height – 22" to 271⁄2"
Chair Weight – 23 lbs (un-boxed)
Boxed Weight – 31 lbs (approx.)

C o n s t ru c t i o n :
• Heavy-duty Suspa gas lift (seat height piston)
• Double-ribbed (for added strength), die-cast aluminum base
with quality power-coat finish and metal floor guides
• Injection-molded durable plastic seat pan
• 21⁄4" high-density “molded” foam cushion

Health benefits of sitting on Swo p p e r !

By sitting in motion you are:
Promoting good posture – The “coupled” motion of Swopper (vertical and horizontal),
together with its “convex” seatpan (allowing the user to tilt the pelvis forward, setting up the
rest of the spine for proper alignment), promotes healthy posture.

Stimulating the physiology of the spinal joints – Motion lubricates and nourishes the spinal
joints and intervertebral discs. This in turn keeps the joints flexible and healthy. Many of the
age related changes seen in spinal joints are as a result of a lack of proper nourishment and
motion. Swopper is anti-aging for the spine!

Stimulating circulation – Swopper’s multi-dimensional movement allows the user to return

blood flow from the lower extremity. This reduces the risk of swollen ankles and the
development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In addition, Swopper’s unique seatpan design
(convex vs. flat or concave) will not restrict the return of blood from the lower extremity.

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Stimulating lymphatic flow – Regular pumping action in the lower extremity stimulates the
return of lymphatic fluid. This helps alleviate ankle swelling and edema in the lower leg.

Making your task an energizing and fun experience – Swopper’s unique patented motion wakes
the user up! Regular movement improves energy levels, relieves fatigue, and stimulates
creativity.

As a Low Back Pain Solution, Swopper is:

• Therapeutic intervention for low back pain
• Preventative medicine for low back pain
• Natural pain relief for those suffering from
low back pain

Studies show that motion/movement inhibits pain

from occurring. Swopper allows you full access to a
whole range of motion while sitting.

S wopper – Sitting is believ i n g !

With feet flat on the floor, knees shoulder-width apart and
turned out laterally, and with your pelvis slightly tiled forward
(promoting the lumbar curve), tension in your lower back is
relieved and your body naturally assumes a healthy posture. In this
position you are able to move freely in all dimensions and there is
absolutely no need for a back support. Your body is aligned and further
support is unnecessary. We encourage users to frequently and regularly
apply movement to their seated task. As a result, they are able to continue
to be productive and at the same time promote a healthy, active spine and lifestyle.

Swopper helps to alleviate neck, upper-back, low back, hip, and leg pain.
But keep in mind, sitting in motion may take some time to get used to. Just
like those bad postural habits took some time to “get used to”. We highly
recommend that people suffering from these problems use Swopper. This
will give them regular, consistent access to healthy sitting habits.
Many of our users already report improved postures
in a matter of weeks. Employers are attracted to
Swopper because it raises employee morale,
enhances creativity and increases overall
productivity.

Swopper is the next seating

“revolution”!

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Sitting Instr u c t i o n s
Start Swopping!
First, place Swopper on the floor with the opening of the base ring facing whatever task is
before you. The rubber “buffer” at the bottom of the central column (piston) must always be
in contact with the floor.

1. Sit in the middle, or “apex” of the Swopper seat cushion, as if you were sitting on a gym
ball. Visually it will appear as if you are about 3⁄4’s of the way back on the seat. In essence,
your spine will appear to vertically line up directly over the piston.

2. Place both feet flat on the ground (legs uncrossed), knees shoulder-width apart.

3 Slightly tilt your hips forward (rotate your pelvis), promoting a small forward curve in your
lower back (lumbar area).

Now balance yourself using your hips and legs. By doing so, you will automatically (intuitively)
correct your seated position and train a host of small muscles: these are exactly the muscles
you need for correctly holding up and supporting your spinal column. Even though you may
not always be aware of it, you are constantly moving. By maintaining your balance, you
automatically attain the position where you feel the most comfortable. This is your correct
sitting position. Take advantage of the natural, fluid, “coupled motion” (vertical and
horizontal) your Swopper provides and “swing” thoroughly from time to time.

How to adjust your Swopper:

Please be aware that these are just recommendations. Change them at any time in order to
give you the highest level of comfort and support as you move and perform the task before
you. Try different levels of adjustment and take the one that you feel gives you the most
comfort and control.

1. First you need to adjust the seat height. Immediately

under the bottom edge of the upholstered seat is a
handle by means of which the gas spring (piston)
release can be operated. Usually it is best to start with
the seat at a higher than normal position. While sitting,
gently pull up on the lever until the desire d ,
comfortable and appropriate seat height is reached.
Come off the seat and again pull up on the lever to raise
the seat again.

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 2. Now “bounce” up and down. The coil-spring tension (the big colored coil around the
piston which controls the vertical movement) can be adjusted by simply turning the collar
immediately below the coil-spring. The optimum position typically depends on the user’s
weight. Turn or twist the collar clockwise (towards the Minus - sign) for less tension, and
counter-clockwise (towards the Plus + sign) for more tension, or a firmer spring (less
“bounce”). The optimal adjustment is when an easy up and down movement is possible
without the feeling that you are “bottoming-out”. As a general guideline, we recommend
the following levels of adjustment:

If your weight is under:

135 lbs., choose the softest (lowest) adjustment
165 lbs., choose level 1
200 lbs., choose level 2
230 lbs., choose level 3
290 lbs., choose level 4 or higher
Please note:
The maximum recommended weight limit for
Swopper
is 290 lbs.

3. Greater lateral mobility, or easier sideways swinging, can

be adjusted by tipping Swopper on its side and turning the
end-cap on the bottom of the column (piston). Less mobility
(less swinging) is obtained by turning the end-cap clockwise (towards
the Minus - sign) and more freedom of movement (easier swinging) is
attained by turning the end-cap counter-clockwise (towards the Plus
+ sign). At first you may feel more comfortable with less lateral
movement, but experienced users of Swopper often find more lateral
movement to be more enjoyable. Either way, let your personal
preference be your guide.

Try diff e rent levels of all three adjustments and utilize those that give
you the most comfort and contro l .

Getting used to Swopper:

The secret to successfully using Swopper is to start
slowly. For some people we suggest they start
with 1⁄2 hour of continuous use and then
increase to a full day over a period of four
to six weeks, depending on the current
level of fitness.

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R e t a i l e r s – Frequently A s ked Questions
What is Swopper?
Swopper is an innovative, evolutionary seating platform which allows the user to access
continuous motion while in a seated position. This new concept of “sitting in motion” is critical
for a healthy spine and for overall wellness. Swopper is the answer for avoiding low back pain
(preventative medicine), relieving existing back pain and encouraging a healthy spine
(therapeutic rehabilitation) by supplying the long forgotten ingredient of movement into the
seated position.

Swopper is new to the United States. Designed and built in Germany, it was first introduced
there in 1997.

What does it do?

Swopper allows you to move and actually exercise your spine and muscles of your back and
abdomen while you sit. You can tilt forward, backwards, and from side to side very easily while
always maintaining complete control of the movement. Additionally, you can bounce gently
up and down while seated. All of this intuitive, controllable movement is wonderful for your
posture, relieving low back pain and encouraging a healthy spine.

How is it a solution to the problem of back pain?

• It reduces the risk of users developing low back pain by allowing them to move and
exercise their back while seated.
• It relieves current sufferers from low back pain by providing motion to the lower back while
they sit.
• It helps stabilize the spine and the muscles of the back and abdomen, promoting a healthy
spine and overall wellness.

What is my target market?

• Someone who needs, or is often required to be seated for long periods of time during
the day.
• Someone who wants to improve their posture and strengthen their back muscles and
relieve the pain associated with static postures.
• A person who is conscious of the need to maintain a healthy spine as well as improve their
overall wellness.
• Someone who appreciates modern furniture for their home or place of work.

Why doesn’t Swopper have a back?

Swopper does not have a back because the whole objective here is to strengthen lower back
muscles by way of unsupported sitting. The person sitting on Swopper already has a back
(“their own”) but they have become accustomed to not using it. As a result, de-conditioning
of the spine and muscles of the back occurs, most commonly resulting in low back pain and
discomfort. By sitting on Swopper, the user is able to assume correct posture easily, even

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while forward leaning, thereby eliminating the need for a back support. This is one of
the reasons Swopper received the prestigious Gold Award for Workstation Task seating
at NeoCon 2001.

Why doesn’t Swopper have arms?

Swopper does not have arms because they would be far too restrictive as well as further
promoting a static sitting posture. One of the key health benefits of sitting on Swopper is that
it gives the user access to a full range of unrestricted, natural, fluid and
intuitive movement in all directions simultaneously. In
addition, when the user is moving while working they
gain the added health benefit of increased blood
flow to all areas of the body.

Why doesn’t Swopper have casters?

Swopper does not have casters because there are a
lot more health benefits related to having to get up
and go to your fax machine, filing cabinet, printer or
whatever, than there are with “scooting” across the floor.
In fact, this bad habit is the cause of a lot more accidents
at work than you would believe, and is responsible for many
low back injuries. Swopper is very easy to move about,
weighing just 23 pounds. If you have a “U” shaped work station
and have two different work areas in close proximity, it is worth
noting that your range of motion from your seated position on Swopper
is drastically increased from that of a conventional chair with casters. This
means your reach is extended while maintaining correct posture. If this is
not possible, then the compact nature of Swopper does allow for two units
to fit in a compact work area if you so choose. It can also be fun and
energizing to move from one to the other.

Why does Swopper have a “convex” seat?

Unlike all other conventional seats, Swopper’s unique convex seat pan
allows the pelvis to assume the correct position to improve the user’s
posture with ease – no slumping! Additionally, circulation is not impeded and,
in fact, with the motion one experiences on Swopper, circulation
is actually improved “while sitting”.

What will make Swopper a good seller

in my store or showroom?
• Based on our re s e a rch to date,
we feel that Swopper is at the right
price point.

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 • There is no other product on the market that is a direct competitor to Swopper.
• Swopper takes up a minimum of floor space to display, therefore your costs per square
foot are comparatively low.
Additionally, it is our experience that Swopper will generate a lot of attention simply because
it is new, different and visually attractive. It is a great conversation piece and has generated
a buzz of excitement and enthusiasm for our other retailers.

Here are some key factors that can assure you of its success:

• Swopper has a sleek, colorful, modern look that is very appealing to today’s consumers
• Swopper has a truly unique movement
• Swopper has unrivaled functionality
• Swopper has received strong “good for your health” endorsements
• Quality German engineering that is evident to even the casual observer
• Durable construction, backed by a solid 5 year warranty
• Competitive pricing
• Quick delivery

Models Ava i l able: (subject to change 6/1/02)

All models have coil-springs that are custom-colored
to match the seat cover.
Model Number Fabric / Finish Color

SWUS01 Milano Wahini Red

SWUS02 Alcantara Smoke Gray
SWUS05 Alcantara Aqua Green
SWUS06 Alcantara Pacific Blue
SWUS07 Alcantara Sunset Orange
SWUS10 Alcantara Onyx Black

**Information regarding COM options to be made available during Summer, 2002.

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Fabric Inform a t i o n :
Milano –
• The highest quality suede-like material: resists “pilling and fuzzing” (68% Polyester,
32% Polyurethane, with a 100% Polyester “Lining”)
• Exceeds 100,000 double rubs (resistance to abrasion – industry standard is 15-18,000)
• Can be cleaned with mild soap and water, or use a medium-soft brush to restore the nap
Leather –
• Environmentally safe (uses harmless agents during
the tanning process), Ecopell leather is
known throughout Europe for its “natural”
e n v i ro nm e n ta l ly f ri en d ly l oo k (o n ly
slightly “ pro t e c t e d ” )
• A monthly wiping with a damp, clean cloth,
followed by a dry cloth, will prevent body oils and
dust from creating a build-up
• As with all leathers, it is recommended that it be kept
out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking
• Please note: no two pieces of leather are alike;
variations and marks occur naturally and are not
considered defects subject to replacement under warranty.

VIA Inc. Contact Information

Postal Address: 205 Vista Boulevard, Sparks, NV 89434

Telephone: 1-800-434-6614 (Toll Free)

1-775-331-6001

Facsimile: 1-800-833-6064

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.viaseating.com

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Warranty Information
Swopper, when used under normal conditions for an individual user (or under single-shift
commercial applications), is guaranteed to the original purchaser to be free from defects in
material and/or faulty workmanship for a period of up to five (5) years from the date of
purchase (multiple-user, 24-hour commercial applications carry a one (1) year warranty). This
warranty extends to the chair base, coil-spring and height-adjustment piston, and seat frame.
Seat cushioning material (foam) has a one (1) year warranty. This warranty does not apply
to items subjected to abuse, misuse, neglect, alteration, damage caused by storage, accident,
fire, flood or act of God. This warranty shall be exclusive and shall be in lieu of any other
express warranty, written or oral, including but not limited to merchantability or fitness for
a particular purpose.

In the unlikely event that service is required, VIA will, at its option, repair or replace this
product free of charge. Simply return the item to VIA insured, prepaid UPS or US Mail with
proof of purchase and an explanation of the problem.

Cover Material Wa rr a n t y :
Leather and Softex (faux leather) carry a one (1) year warranty which extends only to
workmanship. Please note: No two pieces of leather are alike; variations and marks occur
naturally and are not considered defects subject to replacement under warranty. Alcantara
(suede-like fabric) carries a 10-Year Limited Warranty against defects occurring when used
in a typical residential/ single-user office environment (one year when used in any other
environment such as manufacturing and hospitality). From the date of purchase to the
end of the fifth year, Alcantara fabric will be replaced free of charge. From the sixth to the
tenth year, Alcantara fabric will be replaced at a 50% discount (on cost of material only).
Coverage begins from the date of purchase. The original purchaser will be responsible
for all upholstery costs and for packaging and transportation costs from the purchaser’s
location to VIA Inc.

Policies & Conditions

Placing Orders:
To ensure a prompt and efficient order process, all dealers are requested to either fax, email
or mail all new orders to:
205 Vist Boulevard, Sparks, NV 89434 Fax: 800-833-9094 Email: www. v i a s e a t i n g . c o m
Information required – Please submit orders using only VIA model numbers. Specify clearly
the model description, seat cover material and color, and base finish (if option applies).
Special Orders (COM):
This refers to those orders where you (or your customer) wish to provide us with your own
seat cover material to be applied by VIA (on select models only). In these cases, all COM fabric
must be first approved by VIA for suitability of application. A minimum

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6" x 6" sample piece of that material is required first before the order can be processed. Special
Orders, once shipped, are not returnable for credit.

Cancellations:
No cancellations will be accepted on any orders after product has left any distribution point.
No COM order may be cancelled.

Te rm s :
Net 30 days from date of invoice, F.O.B. delivered - 11⁄ 2% per
month late penalty (18% annual). First “stocking” or
“sample” order will require pre-payment unless or
until credit has been approved. Each dealer
agrees to, and will continually comply with, VIA’s
payment terms as a condition for maintaining an
authorized dealership.

F re i g h t :
All products are shipped via UPS unless otherwise
specified at time of order. Drop-shipments will be made
(only within the contiguous US) provided complete
customer address (no PO# please) and telephone number is
supplied. If drop-shipped, all freight charges for returns for
service or credit will be charged back to the dealer. The dealer
also agrees to service all drop-ship customers and to pay all expenses and
shipping costs that may be incurred.

R e t u rn s :
No returns of merchandise will be accepted without prior written consent.
Any such returns must be in new and re-saleable condition, and in the
original packaging. Freight must be insured and all freight charges
prepaid. Merchandise that is being returned for credit will be subject to a
20% restocking fee. Special orders are not returnable for credit or exchange.

Claims:
Dealers and VIA customers should inspect all goods
immediately upon receipt. VIA must be notified of
all claims for loss, damaged (including
concealed damage) or mislabeled
merchandise within 10 days of receipt or
dealer (or dealer’s customer) waives
right to claim. If a drop-shipment is
required of the original order, it is the
responsibility of the dealer to advise
their customer of this policy.

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 VIA Inc.

Distributor of Swopper
205 Vista Boulevard
Sparks, NV 89434

1-800-433-6614 (Toll Free)

Fax: 1-800-833-9094

www.viaseating.com