Classic depictions of evolution show us straightening from crouched apes to upright man, but it may very well be the digital age that sends us back in time to become bent-backed humans with horrible posture. Particularly for those who spend long hours behind computer screens and hunkered down at less-than-ergonomically-correct desks, the impact of sustained bad posture can be hugely damaging to the spine and the body more generally.
Upright is tackling the issue of poor posture with its molded plastic device that delivers gentle vibrations to your lower back, reminding you periodically to sit up straight. The device is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, and it is designed to attach to your lower back with hypoallergenic, removable, and interchangeable medical-grade adhesives. 60 stickers come included with Upright, and the company suggests changing out a new adhesive on the device daily. Soon, Upright will also sell additional sticker supplies in packs of 50 and 100, presumably after their first successful round of pre-order delivery is completed.
Sensors in the device itself cue vibrations every time the wearer’s posture slips, but users only need to keep Upright on for 15 minutes to an hour every day. Upright is also Bluetooth enabled and comes with a USB docking station so that data recorded by the device’s sensors can sync with Upright’s smart learning algorithm and tracking app.
Upright can be used without the app, and the wearer will still receive the gentle, vibrating reminder to straighten up and be mindful of changes in posture. The tracking app builds customized training programs that encourage spinal strength and better postural habits based on analysis of data recorded by the device’s sensors. After wearing the device daily for a short period of the user’s choice (up to 60 minutes in each session), posture improves through the step-by-step program. Wearers also become more aware of existing habits, so that behavior throughout the day grows to reflects better posture in general, even when not wearing the Upright device.
Shipping is expected to begin in November 2015 for Upright customers who preorder by October 20th. The full Upright package costs $129.95 to preorder, and since it is available both on the Upright website and through Amazon, it also comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, a 90-day warranty, and free shipping to anywhere in the U.S. It’s not every day that new technology offerings and tech companies green in the community go out of their way to offer a “no questions asked” money back return policy, so Upright’s stance may be a testament to their belief in the product.
