28.10.24

Ergonomics? Easily explained!

Ergonomics is a complex topic. The term is abstract and yet we often encounter it in everyday life. The word is omnipresent, especially when looking for the right school bag. But what does ergonomics actually mean and why is it so relevant?

Author Annika

Reading time 5 min

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What does ergonomics mean?

We asked a few school kids and they explained it very simply. For anyone who wants to know more, we'll explain the topic in a little more detail.

The term ergonomics originally comes from the world of work and describes the healthy interaction of the working environment and machines with people. In relation to school bags and children's backs, this means that an ergonomic school bag not only gives children space to move around without any problems, but also ensures their back health in the long term. However, it should be noted that ergonomics must always be considered holistically. From supporting the child's urge to move, to the weight of the school bag and the correct adjustment of the rucksack. Only when the child has started to develop the muscles in their upper body by climbing, jumping and skipping can they carry the ergonomic school backpack correctly.

Why is ergonomics so important?

Primary school children are increasingly complaining of back and neck pain. Carrying a rucksack full of books and exercise books can be unfamiliar for young schoolchildren, especially at the start of primary school - so it is all the more important that the school bag is adapted to the needs of the child's anatomy and fits well. Otherwise the consequences can be dramatic. This is because the spine is still easily deformed, especially in children, and muscle strength is still being built up. This means that there is an increased risk of long-term postural damage if the load is incorrect. This is precisely why, at least since the introduction of the ergonomic school bag, our ergobag pack, a good 10 years ago, the topic has become indispensable in the search for the right school bag.

Of course, it always depends on the child's individual physique and sitting posture, as well as how they carry their school bag. And a sufficient amount of movement in everyday life is also very important. But above all, a perfectly fitting school bag that does not restrict the child's freedom of movement and can be individually adjusted to the child's back is crucial to prevent postural problems.

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What makes ergobag so ergonomic?

With the ergobag pack, cubo, cubo light and maxi, the ergonomics lie primarily in the adaptable back system, the so-called “Your-Size-System”, which grows with the children throughout their primary school years and thus enables them to carry the sometimes heavy school materials without restricting their freedom of movement.

The pelvic fins, which enclose the hips, transfer a large part of the weight of all our school bags from the shoulders to the more stable pelvic area. The high-quality padding hugs the child's back and ensures a comfortable fit. But the child-friendly operation of the buckles and straps also contributes to the ergobag's support in everyday school life.

It is also crucial that the school bag is adjusted correctly and that the chest and lap belts are fastened when the bag is worn so that the majority of the weight is shifted to the pelvic area and carried close to the body's center line. This ensures that children can move around freely during the school day and enjoy carrying their school bag to school every day.