Suffolk manufacturer, Plinth 2000, has a long-standing tradition of supplying couches for Wimbledon fortnight and this year delivered a dozen two-section models, eleven hydraulic and one electrically powered.
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No matter the fate of home-grown players at the Wimbledon championships, the oldest and most revered tennis tournament in the world, the physiotherapy that most competitors receive will be delivered on professional treatment couches made in this country. So Britain will have a least some brush with tennis fame!
Suffolk manufacturer, Plinth 2000, has a long-standing tradition of supplying couches for Wimbledon fortnight and this year delivered a dozen two-section models, eleven hydraulic and one electrically powered. The equipment is used to treat players from all courts, including the legendary Centre Court, so it is likely that many famous faces will have graced these physio tables.
"The arrangement came about at least fifteen years ago, when the then All England Lawn Tennis Championship Coordinator, Richard Oxborough, approached us regarding treatment couches, so that players could warm up and cool down properly," says Plinth 2000 MD, Niall Dyer.
"We agreed to lend them for free, so long as our transport costs were covered, and have done so ever since," he continues, "although they have also purchased couches from us, so now they probably own more than they borrow. The feedback regarding the arrangement and product has always been very positive and we assume that some very famous names have been treated on our couches, although we're not certain exactly who."
The couches normally supplied to Wimbledon are Plinth 2000's robust, 2-section 502 treatment couch, whose strong and stable frame provides a safe, sturdy, flex-free platform for manipulation and therapy. The AELTC also borrows and has bought the very popular and versatile 3-section 503 treatment plinth, with fully adjustable foot and backrest, which provides an ideal base for general physio techniques, through to heavy manipulation.
Since the preferred location for the couches is the middle of the changing rooms, where there is limited power supply, eleven of the couch tables feature hydraulic height and backrest adjustment. However, one was specified with electric motors and foot controls, for hands-free operation. Safety features include upholstery impregnated with antimicrobial technology, a generous 25" table width, a breathing hole that allows players to lie face-down in comfort, and a safe working load of 225kg (35 stone), although it's highly unlikely that super-fit Wimbledon athletes will ever test that capacity.
"Like most Brits, every year we hope against hope for a home-grown success at Wimbledon," adds Niall. "But at least fans can be reassured that, at the conclusion of the tournament, at least one British name will still be around in the changing rooms."
Further enquiries to Plinth 2000, Wetheringsett Manor, Wetheringsett, Stowmarket IP14 5PP, tel 01449 767 887, email sales@plinth2000.com or visit the website at www.plinth2000.com.
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