☆☆☆☆☆ 3.5 Star Rating

About the Upright 

This review highlights the Upright Posture Trainer – a user friendly device and app that trains and promotes healthy posture.  The Upright arrived at my doorstep in a neatly packaged lime green magnetic box.  Included inside of the box was the Upright trainer, charging station with USB chord, 60 felt adhesive strips, 8 rubbing alcohol towelettes, and 3 instruction cards complete with App downloading instructions and product information.  It’s clear that Oded Cohen, designer and Founder of Upright, and his team put a lot of thought into the packaging – everything fit perfectly into place, instructions were on point, and the branding was top notch.

Getting started

Before getting started, you must download the Upright App to your phone. Accessing the App is quite simple.  If you have an iPhone or iPad, just head over to the App Store and search for Upright.  The same goes for Android devices.  Click on the Google Play App and you can easily search for Upright there as well.  Downloading should take just a minute or so on either device.  Once the app is installed on your device, open the app and choose the “Let’s Go!” button. By choosing this, you will automatically accept the terms of use and privacy policy.

Setup Wizard

Right after you accept the terms of use and privacy policy, the setup wizard will appear on your screen.  Setup is very straight forward and consists of 6 steps, calibration, and an official sign-up.

Step 1 – Power Up and Bluetooth On

Step 1 walks you through turning the actual device on which consists of simply holding down on the center of the device directly under the Upright logo.  A Flashing blue light should appear signaling that it has powered on.  The second phase of this step involves connecting the device to your mobile device through Bluetooth.  When I first powered on the Upright, I didn’t have Bluetooth activated on my cell phone so I received
this error message.  If you get this, simply go into your phone/tablet settings and make sure Bluetooth is switched “ON”.  It may take a second to recognize nearby devices and you may need to refresh your Bluetooth screen on your mobile device.  Within a minute or so you should see the “Upright” appear under nearby devices.  Once you see that, you can switch back to the Upright App and choose “Connect” in order for the Upright to sync to your mobile Bluetooth.  You will know that you are connected when a large green check mark appears on your screen.  At this point Step 1 was successfully completed.

Step 2 – Where and How to attach the Upright

Step 2 is more of a how-to video tutorial than anything.  This step walks you through where you place the Upright and how to attach it.  The ideal placement location is just above the hips and above your pant-line in the center of your lower back.  You can refer to the videos for exact placement instructions.  A nice feature the app offers is that you can watch the videos over and over again before moving on to the next step.

The remainder of step 2 talks about making sure your lower back is clean and dry before attaching the Upright.  Rubbing Alcohol wipes are included in case you need to clean the area where the Upright will attach.

Step 3 – Adhesive Strips

Step 3 in the setup wizard discusses the use and application of the adhesive strips onto the Upright device and then on to your lower back.  There are 60 felt adhesive pads included with the Upright.  DO NOT peel the adhesive pads off of the strip.  I got ahead of myself and peeled a pad off before watching the entire Step 3 video.  If you touch the adhesive side of the pad, it will be difficult to remove and will then compromise the stickiness once placed on your back.  The video instructs you to toss the pad if your fingers come in contact with the sticky side and just start fresh with a new one.

The correct way to handle the strips as instructed by the video are as follows:

1. Tear one pad + paper backing off the strip at the perforated line.
2. Place the felt side of the pad directly on the back side of the Upright on top of the black sensory panel.
3. Press firmly on the paper side a few times so that the felt is meshing with the sensory panel.
4. Slowly peel the paper off of the adhesive strip without touching the sticky side.  Now you are ready to attach the Upright onto the lower back in Step 4.

Step 4 – Attaching the Upright to Your Back

Now it’s time to attach the Upright to your back.  The wizard has a great video tutorial in this step that shows exactly where to place the Upright.  When you are ready to adhere the Upright to your back, gently push on the device so that you get a secure fit on the back.  I was careful when sticking the device on because I did not want to accidentally press the power button when applying the device.  I gently pushed on the top and sides of the Upright to make sure it was sticking securely to my back.

Step 5 – Upright Posture

Step 5 discusses correct Upright posture.  The video shows you how to find your neutral spine (your natural upright position).  Your neutral spine should feel comfortable and natural.  Here’s how you find it:

1. Fully arch your back and slouch forward.  Arch once more and release to your neutral upright posture.
2. Pull your belly button towards your spine to find support from your core.  Breathe deeply and stay relaxed.
3. Roll your shoulders back and drop.
4. Lengthen your neck and tuck your chin in.  Lengthen your spine like a string is pulling you up from above.
5. Don’t hyper-extend your spine.  Stay relaxed, loosen your shoulders and breathe deep.  Now you know what neutral upright posture should feel like.

Step 6 – Upright Needs to Learn your Back

This step will prepare you for the calibration process.  The video instructs you to move to the edge of your seat so that Upright is far enough away from the back of your chair so that it doesn’t get bumped or misplaced.  Be sure that both feet are planted firmly on the ground below your chair.  Press “Next” to start the calibration process.

Calibration

Upright needs to be calibrated each time you use the App to train so it can detect your Upright position and your slouched position.  Calibration is very important because this is how the App detects whether you are slouching or not.

During calibration, the App will instruct you to sit upright for a few seconds – Click “I’m Upright!” when you are in position.  Then it will prompt you to slouch forward for a few seconds.  You will feel a slight vibration when you slouch forward – this confirms that it has calibrated your posture and it knows when you are Upright vs. slouching.  During training, it will vibrate each time you slouch and have poor posture.  When you are practicing good posture, you will not feel any vibration.

Try to avoid using your chair back rest during training, as you don’t want to disturb the Upright device on your back.  It’s best for your core muscles to not be supported anyway.  Upright should only be used while seating, as the device is not appropriate for walking or standing just yet.

Training Program

Once calibration is complete, the app will guide you through the training program.  The App is set up to train your posture for 21 days.  The first few days of training last for 5 minutes each day and gradually increases over time to 60 minutes per day.  It’s really not a huge commitment at all and is surprisingly effective.  If you need to stand up or pause training, there is a pause button on the App that will temporarily pause the training.

My Dashboard

The “My Dashboard” section is a great overview of your training period.  It tracks your daily goal for training and notifies you while you are wearing the device of good, fair, and poor posture.  There are 3 smiley face icons that will light up during training.  Green is good posture, yellow is fair posture, and red is poor posture.  You will only feel the vibration when the smiley face is red.  I noticed a few times that the yellow smiley face icon was lit for several seconds even though I thought I had good posture at the time.  If you feel that the device is off, you can always pause training and re-calibrate the Upright.

Pricing

The Upright is priced at $129.95 with free standard shipping in the United States.  An upgraded version is available for $139.95 that includes 64 additional adhesive strips (a total of 124 strips).  In the long run, when you run out of strips and need to purchase more, you can get 64 strips for $14.99.  If you plan on using the Upright long-term, you may as well buy the upgraded pack with the additional strips and save the $5 now.

Posture training devices sure have come a long way!  The Upright is a great product that effectively utilizes technology to re-train your body to practice good posture. This is a product that I would highly recommend if you are in the market for a posture training device that accurately detects slouching and helps to retrain your poor posture.  What’s really great about the Upright is that training only takes several minutes to a few hours a day.  You also don’t have to worry about wearing an additional garment under your clothes that could be restricting or noticeable to others.

Other App Features

There is quite a bit of useful information available on the app if you have any questions regarding setup, positioning the device, or need to contact support.

Library

The library on the App offers the same videos you saw during the Setup Wizard, so in case you want to refer back to their instructions, you can access those videos right on your mobile device.  There are also several articles available to read for more information on posture.

Videos & Articles

There are 8 videos available to watch on the app via YouTube.  These are my recommendations:

“Upright Help”

“Where to attach Upright”

“Attach Upright”

“What is an upright posture?”

There are 7 articles available for reading on the App and I would recommend reading the following:

“Staying healthy in the office”

“5 reasons to start working on your posture”

“The importance of ergonomics and posture”

“How to keep moving when you have to stay sitting”

Troubleshoot

The troubleshoot section offers some insight into questions that may arise.  When you click on this option in the App, it directs you to another YouTube video and talks about the following:

• Adjusting the sensitivity level on the app
• Re-calibrating the device
• Ensuring the adhesive is correctly adhering to your back and be sure your back is clean and dry.  A new adhesive may be necessary if you are having issues.
• Re-positioning the Upright upside down if the sensors are not registering correctly, or adhere the Upright slightly higher or lower than your original position.  Remember to re-calibrate if you re-position the device.

FAQ

The FAQ section of the App is very informative as well.  I actually had a question myself during my test period regarding the different colors of the lights on the Upright.  I opened the FAQ section and found my answer right away.  If you can’t seem to find the answers you are looking for, you can always shoot them an email or schedule a Skype call with the customer support team.  Both of these options can be achieved using the app as well.

My 9-Day Test Period

I tested the Upright over the course of 9 days.  Here’s how it went:

Day 1

I trained with Upright on the first day that I received my package.  Since I had downloaded the app, registered with Upright, calibrated the device, and watched the video tutorials during training, I was ready to start my Day 1 training.  The daily goal was 5 minutes and it flew right by.  In fact, I trained for a total of 8 minutes without even realizing I was over my first daily goal.  I received a message on the App congratulating me for my performance and that my posture was straight for 8 minutes.  I’m sure I had the yellow smiley face icon for a few seconds here and there, but Upright calculates good and fair posture as “straight”.  If you feel the vibration from poor posture, it definitely is effective and motivates you to sit up straight.

After training was over, I held down the power button located in the center of the Upright device and waited a few seconds until a quick vibration occurred – then I knew the device was turning off.  I tucked the device in the drawer of my desk next to the original packaging and went on with my day.

Day 2

On day 2, I grabbed the Upright and turned on the device.  After opening the app and looking at “My Dashboard”, I noticed that the Upright was not syncing with my phone. You can easily tell if it’s syncing with Bluetooth by looking to the right of your name under the “My Dashboard” tab.  If a green Icon with a check mark is there, then the Bluetooth is working.  If you see a red X, then it’s not syncing correctly.  Just go into your mobile device settings and make sure that Bluetooth is turned on.  You may need to refresh the settings once you switch your Bluetooth back on.  The Upright should be found and start syncing immediately.

I ripped an adhesive pad (with paper backing still in tact!) off the perforated strip and secured it to the back of the Upright.  Then I peeled off the paper without touching the sticky side and secured it to my lower back just above my pant line.  I pressed the “Start Training” button but nothing was happening.  I quickly remembered that I needed to calibrate the device before each use.  I clicked on the green icon to the right of my name and calibrated the Upright.

My daily goal was 5 minutes just like the day prior.  I finished in no time and was remained straight during the entire duration.

Days 3 -9

I followed this same routine for days 3-9 as my training times gradually increased each day.  I could tell by Day 3 that my muscles were already starting to become trained to stay in an upright position while seated at my desk.  I noticed that I actually started to use my backrest less often also since I became used to sitting at the edge of my desk as if I was wearing the Upright for most of the day, even though I only had it on for minutes at a time.  On occasion, I would forget to calibrate the device, but was reminded immediately when I couldn’t start training.  There were also a few instances where I forgot that I was wearing the Upright and surpassed my daily training goals.

During one calibration, I did have a problem during the process and was prompted with this Calibration Failure warning.  It lasted just a few seconds though and then the calibration was completed soon after.  I experienced this once during my 9 day testing period. I believe the calibration issue was caused by not sitting still during the process, so just remember to hold your good posture and slouch positions without moving during calibration.

I’m still working finishing up the 21-day training program and I will post my complete results and screen shots at a later date.   All in all, I had a great experience from start to finish with this device and App.  I think the price is completely justified for such a great App and posture trainer that can be used over and over again when you feel your posture starting to slip.

Usability and Comfort

My personal experience with the Upright was great as far as comfort and use.  I downloaded the App on my Android phone for convenience purposes, but I could have also installed it on my tablet.  I always have my phone with me at my desk in my office so that’s the device I chose.  The actual device is very lightweight and comfortable.  The flexible rubber material goes unnoticed while wearing it on your back.  The only time I even realized I was still wearing it was when my posture started to slip and I felt a slight vibration.  Other than that it’s quite comfortable.

The only downside to this device is that it’s not meant to be worn while standing or walking so I’m limited to do my training during the weekdays while I’m sitting and working at my desk.  I suspect that this will not be problematic for most people though anyway.

 Concluding Thoughts

There are many posture products on the market, but not as modern of an approach as this!  I’ve reviewed several products over the years and it’s always good to know what options are out there for your specific needs.  Take a look at some of my other recommended products here and as always good luck with your research.

☆☆☆☆☆ 5 Star Rating

About the SheerPosture

The SheerPosure Anatomy

The SheerPosture is a one-size-fits-most unisex posture support that is designed to prevent shoulder slouch and correct poor posture.

It’s a one piece posture brace that can accommodate most body types because of its adjustable nature.  Each arm strap has a metal slide buckle that moves along a canvas strap, which in effect, allows you to lengthen or shorten the strap to fit your body and provide more or less shoulder support.  Also, each strap comes with a removable arm pit cushion to relieve tension and chafing.

A 4.5″ wide  by 43.5″ long adjustable stretchable Velcro belt wraps around the stomach and fastens at the front. The manufacturer’s website states that it will fit those with a stomach measurement between 29″ to 40″.  On either side of this belt, a small elastic pull fastens to the main velcro belt. It serves two purposes which include to provide additional support to the mid-back as well as to hold the support in place.

At the center rear, two vertical flexible reinforcement bands measuring 4.25″ by .75″ provide rigidity to the center of the support.

The SheerPosture is made from a seemingly strong, yet lightweight material that is double stitched together. When placed on a scale, the entire brace weighs 9.31 ounces. Reinforcement has been added to the attachment points where the main body meets the adjustable arm straps. My first impression of this support is that it’s well made, seems durable and would be a product that’s found at a medical supply store.

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Directions for use

The manufacturer provides an instruction sheet that shows how to put on and remove the SheerPosture as well as directions for use. Here’s a brief summary of the information provided by the manufacturer:

*Note: the manufacturer suggests wearing this support on top of an undershirt for maximum comfort.

Putting on the SheerPosture

1. Remove support from the packaging, lay out, and ensure that all velcro straps are unfastened.
2. Slide the metal buckle to fully extend the arm strap. You will make further adjustments to this strap later in step 7.
3. The SheerPosture is worn just like a backpack. Put the support on by feeding one arm through each arm strap. Be sure to put it on with the label facing towards you  on the inside so that it’s not visible when worn.
4. Gently pull down on the belt ends to fully extend the back of the support.
5. Secure the belly belt just above the navel by fastening the two velcro ends together. The belt should be snug but not too tight.
6. Wrap the pull straps around the stomach and fasten each side equally to the velcro belt. These straps should provide additional support without being uncomfortable.
7. Have an assistant make adjustments to the metal slide buckle. A further explanation on how tight these straps can be is found in the directions for use.
8. Insert the arm pit pads, fasten the velcro ends together, and slide to the desired position.

Removing the SheerPosture

1. Loosen both pull straps and then unfasten the belt.
2. Reach behind your head, cross your arms, and use your thumbs to grab each arm strap.
3. Lift straight up over your head to remove.

Putting the SheerPosture to use

The manufacturer offers specific instructions on how the SheerPosture should be worn.

As mentioned earlier, they suggest wearing this support on top of an undershirt. It can also be worn over top of your clothing if you prefer.

They show an example of what your posture should look like when the shoulder straps are properly adjusted. The illustration provided with directions shows that the straps should be tightened until shoulders are square and your earlobes are aligned with the center of your shoulders.

This support is intended to be used as tool to help retrain your posture. The manufacturer suggests that you incorporate regular posture strengthening exercises into your daily routine as well as wear their support.

How many hours and days should it be worn?

The directions suggest that you start off by wearing the support for up to 60 minutes per day. As time goes on, you can increase the wear time to a total of 4-6 hours.  They claim that you will see an immediate improvement in your posture and should see long lasting results that do not require the use of a support within the first 12 weeks of use when you use the support and adopt an exercise routine to target your postural muscles.

What colors is the SheerPosture available in?

The manufacturer currently offers the SheerPosture in 4 different colors:

• Black with black trim
• Blue with black trim
• Pink with white trim
• Beige with white trim

How much does it cost?

On their website, the SheerPosture sells for $49.99.  They offer free shipping to customers within the United States.  According to their website, your order is usually shipped the same day and transit time is usually 1-3 days. From the time that you place an order until it arrives at your doorstep, it should take somewhere between 2-4 business days.

Comparing the cost of the SheerPosture to similar posture supports on the market, this one is priced slightly less than average.

Does it come with a money back guarantee?

The manufacturer offers a 90 day money back satisfaction guarantee which is 60 days longer than the industry standard of 30 days offered by most support manufacturers. They accept returns for any reason although they do require you to pay return shipping.

My experience using the SheerPosture

How did I find the SheerPosture?

A few months back, I reviewed another product that was similar to the SheerPosture and I was quite impressed with its performance. Unfortunately, shortly after writing the review, the seams started to unravel and the straps started to separate. After less than a month of use, it was completely destroyed which was disappointing because it was a product that I really liked.

I was interested in buying a similar style support but did not want to reorder from the original company because I  had concerns about the quality. While searching around for a replacement, I came across the SheerPosture.

The first thing that captured my interest with the SheerPosture was the fact that they were advertising “strong heavy duty material” which is exactly what I was looking for.  In addition, their support also came with attachable arm pit cushions which I could not find with any other support. If you have ever worn a posture brace, you probably already know that the arm straps can irritate your underarms. These pads seemed to offer a solution to the chafing issue that’s common with most posture supports.

After checking out the SheerPosture, I placed my order and waited for it to arrive.

The arrival and initial thoughts

The sheer posture arrives with the brace, armpit pads, and instructions

Two days after ordering, the SheerPosture arrived on my doorstep. Inside the box was a support that was neatly tucked inside of a plastic poly bag.

The bag contained one support, a pair of removal armpit pads, and an instruction sheet. The instructions were very thorough and included illustrations showing how to put on and take off the support as well as a bit of information on how it’s used. I found the directions for putting on and removing the SheerPosture to be clear,  accurate, and easy to follow.

After looking closely at the design, specifically where the arm straps attach to the body, it was clear that the engineering was superior in comparison to the similar style supports that I have purchased in the past.

It was also evident that the material used to make this support were of high quality. I gave each strap a good pull and the double stitching showed no signs of stress or tearing. So far, so good.

As for the the armpit cushions, they contained a fair amount of foam padding inside. A strip of velcro is sewn on to the edge of each cushion.  The pad is wrapped around the arm strap and secured together using the velcro fastening system.

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The Plan

Let me tell you a little bit about myself and why I started testing posture braces. I’ve spent several years seated behind a computer working long hours. As a result, my posture has suffered tremendously. I’ve tried many posture supports and trainers and have found quite a bit of long-term success with most of them as seen over here.

Unfortunately, I have found myself slipping back into the habit of using bad posture after straying away from my exercise program and not wearing a support. It’s been a few months so now I’m back to square one. My plan is to test out the SheerPosture and incorporate a few simple at home exercises. This has worked well in the past and should help to get my posture back on track.

I’ll document my weekly progress below:

Day 1

I decide to go with the manufacturer’s recommendation and wear the support over top of a form fitted t-shirt. I followed the instructions and a couple minutes later, I had the SheerPosture secured and ready to go. The fitting process was easy and I had experienced no issues.

I could immediately feel the support as it held my shoulders back and into place. The material was soft and had a velvety feel to the touch.

After a few minutes, I noticed that the arm straps were not digging into my armpits as I have experienced with several of the other posture braces in the past. I was already sold on the armpit pad feature alone.

The first day I wore it for only an hour just to try it out and get a feel for it.

Week 1

During the first week of use, I had worn the SheerPosture on top of my undershirt and underneath my button up dress shirt. I’m not one to proudly advertise that I’m wearing a posture brace. In fact, the idea of one of my coworkers finding out that I’m wearing a posture support embarrasses me just to think about. Luckily, this support delivers when it comes to being concealed. It’s virtually undetectable when worn under a dress shirt. This is good news as I don’t want my coworkers to razz me about my new “Man-bra”. No one seemed to notice that I was wearing a support underneath my clothing.

During the first week, I wore it to work for a couple hours in the morning and slipped out shortly before lunch to remove it.

The extra support felt great and it remained firm yet comfortable throughout the morning. I believe that the armpit cushions really helped to improve my level of comfort.

Week 2

During week 2, I continued to wear the support for two, sometimes three hour during the day. I started wearing the support after lunch, as my posture seems to suffer the most as the day comes to an end and I’m tired.

Going into week two, I knew that it was time to get serious about restoring my posture and needed to incorporate a short exercise routine to help strengthen my postural muscles. I wasn’t interested in a program that involves extensive vigorous exercises or expensive machinery so I decided to commit to a few simple exercises that I would perform at home after work. I went with the exercises suggested on the SheerPosture website.  In the past, I have followed a similar routine to target my postural muscles.

By the end of week two, things were going well. The Sheerposture was holding up with no signs of tearing at the seams. I ordered a resistance band from Amazon for around $10 and had it ready for next week. With an exercise routine in mind and an exercise band in hand, I was ready to move into week three.

Weeks 3-5

Over the next 3 weeks,  I wore the support for most of the day. I could really feel a difference each evening when I came home from work. My shoulders and upper back did not ache by the end of the day. Best of all, my posture was beginning to show signs of improvement by the end of week 5.

I had developed a simple exercise routine – twelve to fifteen minutes total per day, three to four days per week completing a series of posture strengthen exercises.

The components of the support are all holding together without issues. All straps and stitching are showing no signs of separation.

Weeks 6-8

After two months of using the SheerPosture, my overall posture has improved tremendously and I’m well on my way to a full recovery. I have become more aware of my posture while seated and am able to keep my shoulders back and body upright, even without the assistance of this support.

During the past two weeks, I’ve only been using the SheerPosture occasionally and I’m still able to maintain great posture. I’ve been continuing with my exercise routine which helps to keep my postural muscles in top shape and able to function without the aid of a support.

Weeks 9-10

It’s been two and a half months since I’ve begun my journey to restore my posture. At this point, my poor posture has been completely reversed. My shoulders and back no longer ache at the end of the day and my appearance and confidence has been restored. My wife has commented on how much taller and confident I appear. Best of all, I feel better than ever.

As for the support, it has held up quite well. As mentioned, I’ve owned a few others posture braces that are nearly identical in design but the materials in the other braces that I have used in the past ended up ripping to shreds withing the first 3 weeks. The SheerPosture has lasted over 2 months now and is in excellent shape with no signs of material failure.

I’m actually going to wash my SheerPosture and give it to a friend who could use some help with her posture.

Overall thoughts

I’ve tested several posture supports over the past three years and have found that some are better than others. I absolutely love the SheerPosture and have found that the design, heavy duty materials used, and quality of this support is among the best in the under $50 price range. It has stood the test of time and has proven itself. The 90 day money back guarantee is always a nice option to have although I didn’t have to use it. Most posture supports that I have tried only come with a 30 day guarantee.

I have found that the removable armpit pads make this support much more comfortable to wear because it doesn’t dig into your armpits when you wear it for extended periods of time. These pads are a nice feature that I have not found with similar style clavicle supports. Because they are removable, this gives you the option to wear the support with or without the additional padding.

The adjustable straps have a buckle that can be adjusted to provide shoulder support as needed and waist belt adjusts to most sizes. The smaller pull straps are also a nice feature that provide a little extra support in the mid back section  The manufacturer labels it as “One Size Fits Most” which seems to be accurate. Unless you are very small or very large, this support should fit you.

As far as performance, I couldn’t have asked for a better support. It provides just the right amount of support and because the main body is made from a semi-elastic material, it’s still stretchable and conforms to your body.

It’s fairly thin and weighs just over 9 oz, making it easy to conceal underneath your clothing.

Because it exceeded my expectations in all areas including durability, performance, design, and price, the SheerPosture receives a 5 star rating and is a product that I would recommend to anyone who wants a quality product to improve their posture without spending a whole lot of money.

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Pros

• Durable material and stitching will not tear
• Removable armpit pads for added comfort
• Unisex design
• One size fits most
• Comes with easy to follow instructions
• Comfortable, even for longer periods of time
• Conceals well underneath clothing
• Prevents shoulder slouch and restores poor posture
• Comes with a 90 money back guarantee
• Affordably priced at $49.99 with free shipping

Cons

• Must be hand washed

☆☆☆☆☆ 3.5 Star Rating

The Original Cincher Back and posture support by FLA Orthopedics was created with women in mind. Its design features a power mesh material that shapes the waistline into an hourglass figure while helping to support the back and shoulders. This particular support can be worn on top of or discretely underneath clothing. Sorry guys, this product is specifically designed to fit women.

For Living Actively (FLA) Orthopedics manufactures a wide variety of braces and supports for the body and is widely known to deliver quality products at a reasonable price. In addition to the Original Cincher, the company also manufacturers and sells the Pro-Lite Deluxe, a posture support that we have reviewed in the past.

The Design

As for design, the Cincher has multiple points of adjustment which enables the user to achieve a custom fit that provides just the right amout of support while remaining comfortable.

At the lower front, two large pads wrap around the waist and attach to each other using a hook and loop or velcro system. Two smaller pulls can provide additional support when needed. These can be easily adjusted while still wearing the support by simply pulling back on the strap to detach it and then changing the position. This feature can come in handy when alternating between the sitting and standing position or after eating a large meal.

Each shoulder also has a slider buckle which allows for shortening or lengthening of  the shoulder straps while still wearing the support. These straps can be adjusted to help hold the shoulders back and into proper position.

Overall, this product appears to be a durable and well made and should last for several months or longer if properly cared for and used as directed.

How is it used?

Before using any posture support, it’s always important to first speak with your doctor to see if using such a support is an appropriate solution in your situation.

Perhaps the most important aspect to achieve a great fit is to order the correct size to begin with. The manufacturer provides a sizing chart which should assist with choosing the correct size.

To use the Cincher, you must first make a few adjustments in order to achieve a proper fit. Start by loosening the velcro waist straps and putting it on just as you would a vest, one arm at a time. Once on, secure the waist belt at the front so that it’s snug but not too tight.

Next, tighten the secondary pulls to the desired tension. This may need to be adjusted at a later time as you break in the material and alternate between the standing and seating position.

Once the waist belt has been secured, use the slide buckles to make adjustments to the shoulder straps. These should be tightened until you can feel the tension in your shoulders.

That’s it, your ready to go!

Pricing, Size and Color Options

The Cincher is available in three different colors – tan, black, and white. Color availability greatly depends on the size that you choose.

It is available in several different sizes ranging from x-small to xxx-large. There is a size for just about everyone ranging from dress size 4-26 and hip size 26″-54″. Unless you are extra small or overly voluptuous, FLA should carry a size that fits you.

A word of caution when ordering, be sure to carefully choose your size as some retailers do not offer a refund due to the nature of this product. Some will consider returned undergarments a sanitary issue so be sure to check the sellers return policy prior to making your purchase.

As for pricing, this will vary depending on where the Cincher is purchased. On average, most retailers are selling these for somewhere between $40 to $45 plus shipping and handling cost. The pricing of this product seems to be in line with similar posture supports that are being sold.

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Care Instructions

One nice feature about this product is the ability to easily clean it. Several supports that I have tried must be hand washed and air dried. With this support, it can be cleaned in the washing machine and then hung to dry. If you clean it in the washing machine, be sure to run it on the gentle cycle to avoid damaging the delicate material. Hang dry in a sunny area.

Product Analysis

The Cincher appears to be a popular choice among women on eCommerce websites such as Amazon. However, most who purchase this product seem to use it as a lower back support and shaping tool. While the product description mentions using this product to help correct posture, the emphasis of the support seems to be in the waist area and not necessarily the shoulders and neck.

When used primarily to correct poor posture, the design doesn’t properly support the shoulder area to prevent rounded shoulders. A key element to look for when choosing a posture support is one that has wide adjustable shoulder straps that help pull and hold the shoulders down and back.

Recommendation

A number of posture supports are available over the counter and by prescription, the Cincher being one of them. While this seems to be a quality product, the shoulder support leaves a lot to be desired. If you are a woman in search of lower back support and a waist slimmer, this may be an excellent choice. If you are purchasing it exclusively for correcting poor posture, there are better options available in the same price range.

There are several simple figure-8 shoulder braces on the market that are specifically designed to target the shoulder area, keeping them back into place. When shopping for a brace, be sure to choose one that allows some degree of flexibility. One that is too rigid will prevent you from moving freely and may even cut off the circulation under your arms.

The latest alternative to the traditional brace is the posture shirt which can be worn by both men and women and uses whats called neurobands to help hold the shoulders back and into place. Instead of relying on shoulder straps, this product actually uses tension bands which are incorporated into a compression fitted t-shirt. They are easy to use, simply put it on just as you would a t-shirt. The neurobands interact with neurotransmitters in the back to activate the muscles that are responsible for maintaining good posture.

Correcting poor posture starts with becoming more conscious of how you sit or stand. In fact, becoming aware of your posture is perhaps the most important aspect when it comes to regaining good posture.

Posture braces and supports can assist with retraining your posture but should not be used as an exclusive tool. They should only be used for a few hours each day which will help you relearn proper posture. When used for longer periods of time, you can actually weaken the muscles responsible for proper posture.

In addition to becoming more aware of your posture and using a support, you should also consider performing a few exercises that are specifically designed to strengthen weak posture muscles. There are a number of free instructional videos that can be found on Youtube which can assist with this.

Above all, correcting poor posture takes persistence and dedication. Make a plan to battle your poor posture and make an effort stay on top of it and you will see great results.

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☆☆☆☆☆ 3.5 Star Rating

It can be said that our posture habits are formed early in life. The use of good posture does more than just avoids future discomfort, it prevents abnormal wear on the joints, promotes healthy breathing, improves appearance and makes you feel more confident.

What may seem like innocent slouching can ultimately lead to a lifetime of neck, shoulder, and back pain as well as several other ailments. Some of us slip into the habit of using poor posture in our earlier years while others form poor posture habits later in life.

It’s no wonder why our mothers continuously told us to sit up straight. Now, it’s your turn to pass this advice along to your children who have a tendency to slouch down while seated or while standing.

You may be wondering if there’s a product that will help facilitate the process of keeping your little one sitting up and using good posture. Well, there are a number of supports that are available, the Babaka being one of them.

What is the Babaka?

The Babaka is a posture support that is specifically designed to fit pediatrics. It is able to accommodate children with waist sizes ranging from 18″ to 38″ and up to 5’10” in height.

There are currently two available designs, the “U+” and the “U9”, both can be purchased from a number of different merchants online including Amazon.

The U9 is an older, heavier model that is has a rather primitive design while the U+ is the latest model. The U+ offers several of the same benefits as its predecessor but is lighter in weight and made from a breathable material.

Both products are manufactured in a facility in Kwun Tong, HongKong and seem to be sold exclusively at the wholesale level where they are often purchased and resold by a number of online retailers.

There is no credible evidence showing that the Babaka was designed or endorsed by a medical specialist, which calls into question the effectiveness of this product.

Instruction for use

When you order a Babaka, the instructions that come with the packaging are often written in Chinese or in some cases computer translated English which can be difficult to understand. Luckily, there are step-by-step photo instructions which provide some insight into how this support should be used. Combining the instructional images with our knowledge of other posture braces, we came up with a consolidated list of instructions to the following.

1. Loosen all velcro straps and put the Babaka on as you would a vest.
2. Fasten the waist closure together using the attached velcro strips. Tighten until snug but do not over-tighten.
3. Pull support down to remove any additional slack.
4. Pull secondary straps to provided shoulder support and fasten to the waist closure using the attached velcro.

The smaller secondary straps actually wrap behind the back, cross each other and then go over top of the shoulders. When tension is applied, this exerts down and back force, helping to keep the shoulders from moving forward. As with any other posture support, it’s important to adjust the straps so that they provide enough tension to prevent the shoulders from rolling forward without over-tightening which will cause neck and shoulder strain.

Is it safe for my child to wear a posture brace?

As a parent, you are probability concerned when it comes to allowing your child to wear a posture brace such as the Babaka. After all, at this stage in their life, they are still growing and developing so you don’t want to cause any developmental issues.

In general, the amount of time that a posture support is worn should be limited to a few minutes per day. Before using this product or any other, first speak with your child’s pediatrician to determine if a posture support is a good choice and ask how often it should be used.

Price, sizing, and color options

The Babaka can be purchased from a number of different retailers so the price will vary from one source to another.

On average, the latest model the U+, can be purchased for around $39 while the older U9 model sells for a bit less at around $29. Depending on which merchant you purchase from, the buyer may also be required to pay shipping charges.

The U9 is available in 4 different sizes ranging from medium to xx-large while the U+ can be found in 5 sizes ranging from small to xx-large. In order to find the proper size, you should refer to the sizing chart offered by the retailer. The manufacturer’s sizing chart will give you a range of sizes to choose from based on the height and weight of your child.

The U9 only comes in solid black while the U+ comes in a two-tone of black and grey.

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Insurance coverage

In some cases, your medical insurance will cover the cost of a support for your child. In order to qualify for coverage, most insurance companies require that the product in question qualifies as “Durable Medical Equipment” or DME. At this time, the Babaka is not currently classified as DME and will most likely not qualify for insurance reimbursement.

If you are in search of a covered device, you should first visit your child’s physician who will determine if such a support is a medical necessity. From here, a prescription will be written and you can choose from a list of devices that will be covered under your insurance plan.

Product review

What are others saying about this product and how does it compare to other available options. After searching through various sites who offer direct consumer feedback, we were able to get a better understanding of the level of satisfaction experienced by the average consumer who purchased this product.

We will start by looking closely at the design of this product.

After searching for information pointing to the designer of the product, no supporting documentation could not be located. Posture supports are typically designed by licensed chiropractors, physicians, kinesthesiologists, or other medical specialist who understand the internal workings of the body. While this product does resemble the Spinal Q in design, there is no credible evidence suggesting that it has been professionally designed or clinically tested. Does this suggest that the Babaka does not work? Not necessarily, but if you do decided to go with this product, at a minimum you should show it to your pediatrician and ask for their opinion.

As for the quality of this product, some reviews left on Amazon and other sites suggest that the craftsmanship of this product may be questionable. Some have commented that the stitching comes loose after a few days of use or it arrives defective in the box. Other complaints have to do with the sizing which is said to run on the small size.

On the other hand, several customers have left positive feedback and seem to be satisfied with their purchase. There really seems to be a mix of satisfied and dissatisfied customers.

Recommendation

So the question remains, is the Babaka worth the asking price and is it really the best option for use on children?

When it comes to posture braces for children, only a small number of manufacturers actually make supports specifically designed for children, the Babaka being one of them.

Priced at $40 or less, it is certainly one of the lowest priced children’s posture supports currently available. However, the questionable product quality and design should raise a red flag to anyone interested. If you decide to go with this posture corrector, be sure to choose a retailer who offers a return policy in the event that the Babaka doesn’t work out. Also, as mentioned, be sure to have the support examined by a qualified medical professional prior to use.

If you are interested in saving a few dollars and giving it a try, you may be satisfied with your purchase. However, if the possibility of dealing with shipping and returns would be more than you are willing to handle, you may want to reconsider your options in order to avoid the possibility of frustrations in the future.

As for alternative, there are a few companies are producing such products in children’s sizes. The Shouldersback is a product that I have tried and would recommend. It comes in pediatric sizes and was developed by Equifit company founder Alexandra Cherubini with the help of an orthopedist, which gives the product some credibility. The ShouldersBack is a product that I have used and can attest to its quality and craftsmanship. At $49.95, it actually comparably priced to the Babaka.

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☆☆☆☆☆ 4 Star Rating

About the Posture CorreX

The Posture CorreX (model # T106) by Xback is a support that treats a number of different ailments including shoulder, neck, and back pain. The brace is considered a Lumbar-Sacral Orthosis (LSO) because it covers the five lower seconds of the spine, L1-L5 while incorporating a strapping system that works to pull the shoulders down and back into proper position.

The rigid posterior panel stabilizes the back and provides firm support.

Weighing only 14 oz and made from a breathable material that wicks away moisture, the CorreX is lightweight and comfortable to wear even during warm weather conditions.

Xback suggests that their product can be used by individuals from all walks of life and occupations. They further suggest that if you have a neck, shoulder, or back pain and spend your waking hours sitting or standing, you may find relief while using their product.

Since posturebraceguide.com focuses primarily on reviewing products as they relate to improving poor posture, this review will discuss how the Posture CorreX can assist with correcting posture.

Who’s behind the Posture CorreX?

While analyzing any product, the first question that you should ask is “exactly who is behind this product and what are their credentials?”

Information found on the Xback website suggests that the Posture CorreX was designed by both a physical therapist and a sports medicine physician who became frustrated due to the lack of well designed products for the lower back and posture. This is good information to know, however,  the company’s website had no further mention of exactly who these individuals are.

Further off site investigating revealed the designers to be Dr. Paul J. Marr who specializes in sports medicine in Reading, PA along with his wife Catherine who is believed to be the physical therapist that had been mentioned on the company’s website.  Public information did show that a gentleman named Steven Lusky owns and operates Xback as well as J&J Medical Inc, a company that distributes durable medical equipment (DME). Both of Lusky’s companies operate in Birdsboro, PA.

Product Design

The Posture Correx uses what’s called proprioceptive action to help retrain your posture which simply means that the device helps to train your brain to recognize good posture. Because it’s a dynamic brace and not a static brace, it allows movement of the shoulder and body. It utilizes a series of straps which are attached to the posterior panel. These straps are adjustable and provide backward and downward force to help keep your shoulders correctly positioned.

While simple in design, it’s actually a rather unique product  in comparison to some of the other posture braces that I have tested in the past. Many posture braces use a figure-eight design which actually works quite well. Unfortunately one of the drawbacks of the figure eight style is that it will grab firmly under the armpit which can cut off circulation. While the shoulder straps do pass under the arm, they do not grab up underneath it. Instead, the straps attach to the main posterior panel, travel up over the shoulder, diagonally across the back, and then wrap around ultimately attaching at the front.

How it’s used

As with any other posture support, long term use is not recommended. The manufacturer suggests using this product 1-2 hours per day for 6-7 week at a time in order to train your posture. This coincides with what many physicians suggest. You should however first speak with your doctor to determine your best course of action to meet your individual needs.

Putting the brace on involves a rather simple process:

1. Unpack and unfasten the Velcro straps
2. Center the brace around your back, wrap around and fasten together at the front. When doing so, ensure that the tag is facing up and brace is firm but not too tight around your abdomen.
3. Take one of the shoulder straps and move the shoulder pad so that it rests somewhere in front of the shoulder area.
4. Pass the strap over your shoulder. The strap should be running vertically at this point.
5. Grab the strap behind your back with the opposing hand and attach to the Velcro pad at the front.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 using the other shoulder strap.
7. Grab each shoulder strap, loosen and then pull until your shoulders are positioned back and down and you are using good posture.
8. Fasten the straps to the belt
9. Loosen when a break is needed.

While this may seem like several steps, the process only takes a few seconds.

When properly fitted, you should still have mobility in your shoulder and back but should feel a suggestive tug pulling your shoulders back. The action of this suggestive tug is what helps you re-learn good posture.

Sizing & Color Options

This product only appears to come in all black at this time.

As for sizing, there are five different sizes to choose from. Measure around your waist and choose the corresponding size.

• Small – 19″ – 26″
• Medium – 27″ – 34″
• Large – 35″ – 42″
• X-Large – 43″ – 47″
• XX-large – 48″ – 55″

Pricing & Shipping

Cash option

There are a couple of ways that you can purchase the Posture Correx. The first is to outright purchase it from the company. It can be ordered directly from the Xback website for $149 plus shipping charges which will vary from $11 for standard UPS Grounds shipping up to $50.70 for UPS next day air.

Using the UPS ground shipping option, you should expect to pay around $160 shipped to your doorstep. At $160, the Posture Correx is priced on the higher end compared to similar products.

An alternative to paying full price for this product is to have your medical insurance pay for it. Here’s how.

Insurance option

Since not all posture braces are covered by insurance companies, you are limited to the number of braces that are covered. Fortunately, the Posture Correx is covered by most insurance companies.

Using Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code #L0627, with your doctors guidance, you can pick up this brace at a discounted price or in some cases free. Since insurance companies vary, it’s difficult to determine exactly how much yours will cover. It’s best to call your insurance company and speak with a representative about the coverage of Lumbar orthosis.

Recommendation

The Posture Correx is a well designed, high quality product that’s both comfortable and effective. The lightweight material is thin, cool, and easy to conceal.

One unique feature of this product is the design of its strapping system. As mentioned, traditional figure-eight style braces grab under the armpits, cutting off circulation and making them uncomfortable to wear. This product is designed so that it doesn’t dig into your armpits, but gently pulls the shoulders back and into place instead.

Overall, it’s an excellent product that is very functional. Unfortunately, the steep price tag of $160 can be an issue for most consumers who are paying out of pocket.

If you are looking for a quality product and can afford the price, this brace is worth giving a try. If you can’t afford the price but have insurance that will pick up the tag, I would suggest exploring this option.

If the price is out of your range and your insurance doesn’t cover such supports, you may want to look in the other available supports. A fairly comprehensive list can be found here. There are several products (trainers, supports, braces, etc) that can be purchased for less than $60.

☆☆☆☆☆ 3.75 Star Rating

The Basics of the Iposture

In this day in age where newer electronic devices are quickly replacing old tried-and-true products, it’s not surprising to see a shift in interest from traditional posture supports to wearable electronic posture coaches. The Iposture is a great example of this phenomena. It solves the age-old problem of poor posture using a 21st century approach.

In years past, those with poor posture would often turn to a posture brace or support as a solution. While such products may serve as an effective means to correct bad posture, they often restrict movement and can actually weaken the muscles that are responsible for posture with prolonged use.

Take one look at this half dollar sized device and it’s easy to see that this product is not a posture brace at all. Instead, it’s a posture coach that can be worn on top of or discretely underneath your shirt. It can be attached to your shirt, bra strap, adhered directly to your skin or worn as a necklace pendant. Being a coach, it’s primary function is to monitor your posture and send out an alert if your posture deviates from the “good posture” position. The alert is a gentle vibration that reminds you to sit up and resume proper posture. Once proper posture is resumed, the vibration alert stops and then it continues to monitor your posture.

The Inventors

Moacir Schnapp, Inventor of the iPosture

Dr. Moacir Schnapp and Dr. Elma Schnapp, a husband and wife team, created the Iposture to help their patients who suffer from poor posture.  Dr. Moacir Schnapp currently operates Mays & Schnapp, a pain clinic and rehabilitation center in east Memphis Tennessee while his wife is also a physician who specializes in physical rehabilitation. Together, they designed and brought the Iposture to market in 2008.

Since its release, this product has captured the attention of several television shows and publications including Shape Magazine, Oprah’s “O” magazine, and NBC’s The Doctors Show. Overall, the media seems to have painted a fairly positive picture of the Iposture with glowing reviews.

Product details – How it works

Before using this device, you must first decide how to wear it. The Iposture works best when worn on the upper chest, near the collar bone. As mentioned, there are several different ways that it can be worn. Let’s talk a little about the advantages and disadvantages of each way.

• As a pendant – The device can be worn on a necklace as a pendant which is arguably stylish yet makes an undeniably great conversation piece. The disadvantage of wearing it this way is the fact that it can sway around, causing a false reading of your posture position.
• On a bra strap- Clipping the device onto a bra strap seems to be the ideal way to wear this product because it remains close to the body and allows you to conceal it. Unfortunately, this option is only available to female wearers which eliminates this option for all (non bra wearing) males.
• Directly on skin- Another option that would be effective is to stick it directly to you skin, preferably near the collar bone allowing you to conceal the monitor.  There are at least a few disadvantages of this method, the first having to do with body hair. If you are a hairy guy, you will either have to either shave a spot on your chest or sacrifice a few hairs ever time you use the adhesive pads. Furthermore, the adhesive may irritate your skin after prolonged use.
• Clipped to clothing- This seems to be a great option for both men and women. The downside is that you must be wearing a form fitted shirt and not loose fitted clothing. Without a tightly fitted shirt, the sensor will not be able to properly function because it will loosely move around on your clothing.

Once you have established the best way to wear the device, simply put it on and you’re almost ready to start using it.

Before putting the Iposture to work, it must first be set while sitting up in the ideal posture position. Stand in front of a mirror while assuming the good posture position with your chin up, back straight and shoulder back. Once in this position, press once on the device until you receive one vibration which is simply a confirmation.

From here, if the sensor detects movement of three degrees or more for a length of time that is sixty seconds or more, you will receive a warning notification which will remind you to return to good posture. If you fail to return to using good posture, the device will vibrate twice every 60 seconds until your posture returns to normal.

It’s a good idea to frequently set the ideal posture throughout the day as you switch between sitting and standing. This ensures that the device remains properly calibrated.

The manufacturer suggests wearing their product for at least four hours per day for the first one to two weeks which should train you to becoming accustomed to using good posture for the majority of each day. Thereafter, use the device every two to three days to maintain the habit of good posture.

You will notice an immediate difference in your posture after the first day of use which should get progressively better as time goes on.

Turn the monitor off by simply laying it down flat or pressing and holding the button for three seconds while wearing.  By pressing and holding the button, it goes into “sleep mode” which lasts for 15 minutes. After this time period it will wake up on its own as indicated by two short vibrations.

Battery life

This device uses a large button style battery (model number CR2032) which should last up to three weeks, depending on use.

Of course, the more often that you slouch, the more often you activate the vibrating alert, the faster the battery will drain. I would anticipate that the battery life would be shortened dramatically when first used because a beginners posture will be sub-par. As time goes on and posture improves, the alert should activate less often and the life of the battery should be considerably longer.

The manufacturer provides a tool which can be used to remove the battery cover, making battery replacement easier.

Pricing

The Iposture currently sells for $74.95 plus process and handling charges. This is comparatively priced to a similar product that I recently reviewed called the Lumo Lift.

Industry wide, the Iposture appears to be competitively priced with the other electronic posture coaches that are available.

How can I get one?

According to the manufacturer’s website, the only way to get an Iposture is to order one directly from their site. However, after speaking with the manufacturer, it seems as if they have run into production issues and are not currently offering any units for sale. I will update this section when I’m aware of the company offering this product for sale once again. Thus far, it’s been several weeks so don’t expect anything anytime soon.

The Lowdown

Alright, down to business.

The concept of the Iposture is very appealing and would be an effective way to retrain your posture without using a brace or strength training system.  Unfortunately, as with any other products, it does have its limitations.

Battery replacement – Perhaps the greatest drawbacks of this product is the fact that the batteries must be replaced frequently, as in about every 3 weeks. A two pack of these batteries retails for around $4.50, or $2.25 each. If you were to replace the battery every three weeks, you would go through 17 batteries per year at a cost of $2.25. Annually, this equates to a whopping $38.00 per year. That being said, a rechargeable version of the device would be more appealing.

EZ Sticks replacement – If you decided to use the “EZ Sticks” to adhere the device directly to your body, these will need to be replaced on a daily basis. I was unable to locate a sales page on their website where they sell replacement EZ Sticks so I have no idea how much they cost or how many come in a pack. Nonetheless, it’s one more thing to continuously order and pay for.

Clothing – As with all other posture coaches that are worn on your clothing, you are limited to the type of clothing that can be worn in order for the product to work correctly. As mentioned earlier, loose fitted clothing could allow the sensor to position itself in such a way that is not relative to your body position, thereby falsely activating an alert.

No tracking – Similar product are now available for about the same price that perform the same functions as well as track and store your overall progress. This information is then synced to your smartphone so that you can keep track as your posture improves.

Aside from the four mentioned limitations, the Iposture appears to be a useful product that can effectively retrain poor posture without the use of bulky and uncomfortable braces. While newer, more high-tech devices such as the Lumo Lift have recently emerged and have taken such posture coaches to the next level, this product would still be a good choice for those who are not interested in the extra bells and whistles and don’t mind the additional cost of often battery replacements.

☆☆☆☆☆ 3.75 Star Rating

About the Posturific Brace

Developed by Dr. Joshua Dorsey, a Dublin Ohio chiropractor, the Posturific is a simple figure-eight style posture brace that was introduced to the market in 2011.

Dr. Dorsey developed this product with simplicity in mind. He believes that many posture supports that are being sold are over-complicated, difficult to use can be uncomfortable. After noticing that several of his patients were experiencing discomfort due to their poor posture (and after realizing from a photograph that even he was using poor posture), he decided to take action by creating a simple product that would help his patients as well as his self. The Posturific was born and four years later, it’s still being sold worldwide on both his company website and also Amazon.

Further details

Joshua Dorsey, Inventor of Posturific

The Posturific was created with people from all walks of life in mind, from musicians, doctors, secretaries, mechanics, to computer programmers and cashiers. The manufacturer claims that just about anyone can use this product.

A close look at the construction reveals just how simple the design really is.

An elastic band that is about 1.5″ wide is sewn into an infinity loop. The loop has a stitching at the center which creates a figure eight design and also gives you two separate shoulder loops. There’s no way to adjust this product so it’s important to choose the correct size when ordering.

That’s it. There’s nothing else to it.

How’s it used?

The Posturific can be worn in one of two different positions.

First, it can be worn under the armpits and over the outside of the upper arm. The second way that it can be worn is under the armpits and over top of the shoulders, between the shoulder and neck. This seems to be the most secure way to wear this support as wearing it over top of the upper arms could allow the elastic band to work it’s way up or down the arm.

Start by placing one arm in each loop, near the forearm area. You will want to ensure that the loops are not twisted around and that the tag is facing away from your body. Next, use the area between your pointer finger and thumb to slide the support up the arms and overhead. Finally, grab a hold of the straps at the front and rotate the support so that the X is located between your shoulder blades. A mirror will be helpful during this step.

Now that you have it on, the manufacturer suggests wearing it for 30 minutes each day for the first seven days. Once you become accustomed to wearing it, you can increase the wear time. So is that it? Of course not!

Dr. Dorsey also advises that you perform a few simple exercises to help strengthen your posture. He suggests 5 minutes of exercise 3-4 days a week or every other day. He offers a flyer featuring three exercises that you can do at home. In addition, he has also has a few short videos posted on his website showing the proper way to do several posture strengthening exercises. According to Dr. Dorsey, noticeable permanent results usually occur within 45 days of use.

The support can be used during virtually any activity including seating, walking, running, driving, or while playing sports. The effects would probably be most noticeable to anyone who spends several hours seated each day, such as office workers.

Price & Guarantee

The Posturific sells on the manufacturers website for $21.99 plus $6.95 shipping and handling. The total price – $28.94.

Alternatively, if you would like to save a dollar or so, you can purchase this product from Amazon instead. It’s currently priced at $24.99 plus $2.72 shipping, bringing your total to $27.71, a savings of about $1.00. Hey, every dollar counts!

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A posture brace that is priced just under $30 places this product in a price range that is significantly lower than average. In fact, it’s one of the least expensive available options.

Like several other manufacturers, the company offers a 30-day money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase. Thirty days seems to be the standard guarantee period in this industry.

Sizing and Color

When purchasing this support, you can choose between two colors which are black or beige.

You must also chose the size that will best fit. A sizing chart can be found on their website for both men and women. Basically, men and women’s t-shirt sizes x-small, small, and medium are equivalent when it comes to sizing the brace.

A woman who wears a large t-shirt should use a medium brace while a woman with an X-large shirt would wear a larger brace.

For a man with a large shirt, a large brace would be appropriate. Men who wear shirt sizes X-large and XX-large should choose the x-large brace.

What are the reviewers saying?

If you were to head over to Amazon and take a look at the reviews for this product, you will see a fairly even split between satisfied customers and those who were not satisfied.

Currently, 32% of customers gave this product a five star rating while 13% gave it a one star rating. The other 55% fell somewhere in between two to four stars.

The primary complaint of those who left lower ratings was that the bands become bunched up and uncomfortable under the arms. Also, some complained that it did not fit well, however, this could have been caused by purchasing the incorrect size.

Those who left higher ratings noted that it worked well and helped to correct their poor posture. Many claim that it relieved neck and shoulder pain.

As with any review discussion online, all comments should be taken with a grain of salt. In other words, anyone can create a review (both positive and negative), whether it’s the manufacturer or a competing company. If you are considering this product and are unsure if you will be satisfied, keep in mind that there is a 30 day money back guarantee. Unfortunately, you will most likely have to pay for return shipping and your original shipping charges will not be refunded.

Should I buy it?

The million dollar question that everyone wants to know: Should I buy the Posturific?

With so many products on the market, this decision can be difficult. If you are shopping for a simple brace that is on the less expensive side, this product might be worth trying, especially because it comes with a money back guarantee.

“But why spend $30 on a piece of elastic that’s sewn into a figure eight? I can do that!”

This is a valid argument and I say that if you are willing to purchase the material from a fabric store and are able to sew using a sewing machine, you can make an identical product for less than $5. In fact, you can probably use the elastic out of a pair or two of old underwear which would of course cost next to nothing.

Odds are, however, that you are not interested in engineering your own product. This one can be at your doorstep with the click of a mouse, and $30 dollars later of course.

One of the best features of this product is the fact that it does not need to be fitted or adjusted. In fact, it takes less than 10 seconds to put on or take off. This is a nice feature considering that most products take several minutes to fit before they are comfortable and effective.

Another appealing feature is its ability to conceal. This brace can be worn underneath a shirt and would be very difficult to detect. It would of course be a good idea to wear it over-top of an undershirt for a higher level of comfort and to help prevent the elastic from digging into your armpits.

My opinion is that simple is not always better. There are literally dozens of products to choose from and if you have a budget that allows for a brace that is slightly more expensive, there are some really well designed products out there that can be purchase for $100 or less. If $30 is all that you are able to spend, give this product a try and if it doesn’t work you can always send it back for a refund.

Either way, as Dr. Dorsey stresses, exercises to strengthen your posture are a necessary component when it comes to correcting poor posture. Whether you choose this product or end up going with something else, strengthening your muscles by exercising along with having a better awareness of your posture is critical.

Posture supports can be of a tremendous assistance when it comes to helping keep your shoulders back but they should not be relied on solely. According to experts, relying solely on a support can actually weaken the muscles that are responsible for posture. In other words, a few minutes of targeted exercise 3-4 days a week, the use of a posture support, and better postural awareness will go a long way.

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Pros vs Cons

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Designed by a doctor
• Simple to use
• Money back guarantee
• Concealable
• Multiple sizes/colors available
• Comes with exercise flyer

Cons:

• May dig into armpit area

☆☆☆☆☆ 3.5 Star Rating

Company History

The Royal Posture is an As Seen On TV product that is sold by TELEBrands Corporation and is quoted as the “Amazing back support that aligns your spine.”

TELEBrands is a television marketing company that has promoted hundreds of ASOTV products through out the years. In fact, they were actually the creators of the “As Seen On TV” brand. The company works closely with inventors to promote products that they believe to be useful.

Since this product is marketed and sold exclusively by Telebrands, we have little to no insight when it comes to who the inventor is or what their credentials may be.

Product Information

Best described as a posture support, the Royal Posture is designed to support your lower back, neck, and spine. Three materials are used to make the support including neoprene, nylon, and a cotton blend. Because of its construction, the manufacturer advises that you do not machine wash this support. Instead, it should always be hand washed and hung up to dry.

The support has twelve magnets sewn into into the body, six that run horizontally across the back area and six that run vertically along the spine.

In order to use it, first put it on over your back as you would a vest and fasten around the torso using the provided velcro strap. The shoulder straps can be adjusted using the plastic slide buckle. You will want to tighten the straps until your shoulders are pulled back and into the good posture position without over-tightening. It’s usually helpful to look in the mirror when adjusting to ensure that you are using good posture.

From here, the support does the heavy lifting by holding your body upright and preventing shoulder slump.

Significance of the magnets

Perhaps one of the most eye-catching features of this product is the embedded magnets that run along the back and spine. Their existence gives the impression that they offer some sort of health benefit such as spine realignment or pain relief. The use of magnets (magnet therapy) has been around for a number of years, yet the true benefit is often debated.

After combing through the Royal Posture sales page, I was unable to find any information or references about these magnets which leads me to believe that they merely exist for show. They don’t appear to offer any additional support or therapeutic benefits.

Does it really help with neck and back pain?

If you are suffering from neck and or back pain and have poor posture, there’s a good chance that your posture is partially responsible for these aches and pains. It’s a fact that for every inch of head forward posture, the relative weight of your head doubles due to the effects of gravity. It’s easy to see how all of that weight can cause such pain issues.

As with any other product that is designed to improve posture, a noticeable difference should be felt whenever you begin to use better posture and position your head over your shoulders properly. So yes, if you become more aware of your posture while using this brace, you will likely experience less aches and pains in your neck and back.

Concealment 

A posture brace is usually something that most people don’t want to display in public. Instead, most simply want to be seen using good posture. The ability to conceal the brace underneath your clothing is often a determining factor when it comes to making a buying decision.

One of the strongest features of this product is its ability to be concealed. Like similar vest style posture braces, it can be worn against the skin but are best worn with an undershirt for the highest level of comfort. As long as you are not wearing skin-tight clothing, it should be difficult to detect that you are wearing this product.

Sizing

According to the product sales page, this brace comes in three different sizes:

Regular: 28″ to 38″ waist
Large: 38″ to 48″ waist
Extra Large: 48″ to 60″ waist

However, while placing your order, only two sizing options are offered:

Small/Medium: 25″ to 36″
Large/X-Large: 37″ to 58″

It seems as if they consolidated their sizing but forgot to update the sizing information on their sales page.

How it’s used

Putting on and taking off the Royal Posture is fairly straight forward and easy to do. The following instructions can be used to fit and adjust your support.

1. Unpack and unfasten the waist straps
2. Feed the straps around shoulders as if you were putting on a vest
3. Slide the waist strap through the belt buckle and fasten to the other side of the belt.
4. While using good posture, tighten or loosen the shoulder straps until supportive yet comfortable.
5. Tuck elastic straps into the provided loops.

After completing the initial fitting, it should be much easier to take off and put back on. Daily adjustments may be necessary.

Cost, Shipping and Guarantee

As with any other As Seen On TV product, the cost is always “$19.95” plus shipping charges which are $6.99.  But wait! There’s More! (of course). Not surprisingly, they offer a second support for an additional $9.95.

If you decided to go with only one support, the total price shipped to your doorstep is roughly $27.00. A second device will bring that total up to $37.00.

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Comparing the price to similar products, the Royal Posture is priced on the lower end when it comes to posture supports.

The company does offer a 30 day satisfaction guarantee. According to their return policy, you are able to return it within 30 days to receive a full refund. Unfortunately, the $6.99 shipping fee is not refunded nor will the company pay for return shipping. If you decide to return it, you will be out approximately $14.00.

Shipping issues

While searching for feedback on the Royal Posture, I came across several who claim to have experienced issues receiving their product in a timely manner. While their sales page states that shipping “may take 3-6 weeks”, several customers claim to have experienced longer wait times, mostly during 2014 and up until early 2015. This was most likely caused by a supply issue which may have been resolved at this point.

If you have ordered this product and are currently having issues, please share your experience below in the comment section. Be sure to include your order date so that we can get an idea of the current shipping time.

Is it worth buying?

There are several factors that one should consider before making a purchase decision such as cost, quality, effectiveness, and value. For some, only one or two of these qualities are important while for others, all are weighed equally.

The Royal Posture has its strengths as well as its weaknesses. As for cost, it will be difficult to find a comparable product at a lower price. One similar product that comes to mind is the Faburo which at $34, it’s slightly more expensive. This product is nearly identical and I found it to be a decent value.

Of course, because of its ultra low cost, you can’t anticipate that the materials used or the craftsmanship are going to be of the highest quality. This factor should always be taken into consideration.

So it all comes down to how much money you are willing to spend and which qualities you value the most. For example, a money conscience consumer who is operating on a tight budget might be enticed by the $27.00 price tag or perhaps find the two for $37 price tag appealing. For such consumers who are looking for one of the least expensive ways out, the Royal Posture may be a great choice because it’s inexpensive and would serve its purpose as a posture brace.

Others who consider quality along with price to be major determining factors may want to consider all other available alternatives. A number of supports and posture trainers are available and while they may cost a little more, you may be better satisfied with a higher quality, more comfortable product that will last longer. Here are some of the other products that you may want to also consider.

The bottom line: if your budget is $27 or less then go for it. If you are able to spend a little more then consider looking around at other available options.

Personally, after purchasing and reviewing several posture braces, I’m becoming increasingly in favor of using a posture trainer because they seem to produce long term results by strengthening the muscles that are responsible for posture. Most braces provide the support for you, doing the work of your muscles. While this may seem like a good idea, long term use of such braces can actually lead to weakening of the muscles because your body becomes dependent on brace providing support.

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Pros

• Inexpensive
• Available in multiple sizes
• Adjustable
• 30 day money back guarantee
• Can be concealed

Cons

• Shipping takes 3-6 weeks (or longer)
• Not the highest quality
• Magnets have little to no use