London - 14/10/09

Velaqua’s floating water bike helps you swim to success

Velaqua Diffusion of France has launched the Velaqua©, a floating, pedal-less bicycle for use in water. The bike, which is unsinkable and uncapsizable, can be used for physiotherapy, relaxation or exercise. Velaqua© is easy to use and is made of environmentally friendly materials. The company is now looking for distributors across Europe.

The Velaqua© is made of a frame and two high-density floats. It floats naturally while bearing a load in excess of 120kg. As its centre of gravity is located below the water surface, it cannot be capsized, even under difficult sea conditions. The floats feature ergonomic handles that ensure stability for the user. The user sits astride the lower part of the frame, upon a removable saddle that is covered with a thick layer of cellular foam (this can be replaced with an orthopaedic seat). Propulsion is provided by the legs or arms, or both together.

While the Velaqua® was initially designed for use in pool-based functional or cardiac physiotherapy, it can also be used for leisure by anyone over the age of nine, whether able to swim or not. In addition, the user can vary the positions, from a classic seating posture to reclined positions. In the event of a shock, Velaqua®’s blunt shape prevents any contusion.

The Velaqua® range includes four models. The Fun Pro and Fun GT Pro (with flippers and levers), mainly designed for use in swimming pools, are already on sale. The motorised Fun GT E Pro, for use at sea or on lakes, is currently in the test phase and is designed for longer rides and/or for professional use. Finally, the Liberta, a device especially designed for use by the disabled, is currently being manufactured.

The Velaqua© weighs just 12kg and can be dismantled into three parts for easy transport. As the front and back of Velaqua© are identical, it can be taken apart and reassembled in seconds with just a click. Its hydrophobic coating will not be damaged by salt or chlorine and is resistant to UV damage. Prior to storing, a simple wipe-down with clear water is sufficient to clean devices that have been used in seawater. The dimensions of the Velaqua© are 120cm by 75cm by 105cm.

Velaqua Diffusion has also developed the Velaquagym programme of exercises using the bike, which combines unusual muscular-strengthening, cardio-respiratory, motion, coordination and balance exercises, which can be performed in a swimming pool, in the sea or in a lake. Aqua fitness programmes are increasingly popular, as they can be enjoyed by people of all ages, abilities and levels of fitness and are particularly suitable for those recovering from injuries.

About Velaqua Diffusion

Velaqua Diffusion, which is headquartered in Saint Nazaire (in Brittany, in western France), manufactures and distributes the Velaqua® range of water bikes.

Velaqua Diffusion is currently developing a worldwide distributor and reseller network and is seeking new partners. The company is also developing additional models, including an anti-shark version (using ultrasound technology developed in New Zealand) and a solar version (featuring a four-wheel undercarriage and a parasol equipped with voltaic panels).

Velaqua© was awarded the Gold Medal at the International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva (Switzerland) in 2007; it was patented in the same year, and has been approved by the SGS Group.

For further information, please go to: www.levelaqua.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Kate AMBLER – Press Officer

UBIFRANCE Press Office in London

Telephone: 0207-024-3640

Email: kate.ambler@ubifrance.fr

Web site: www.ftpb.co.uk

UBIFRANCE UK #3331