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You can either lift the seat, which will give you more room, or squat with the seat down. You can squat with your feet fully on the footpads (good if you prefer a wide stance), or with your heels on the rim of the toilet and your toes on the Lillipad (good if you prefer a narrow stance and it’s easier to squat this way as your heels are higher).
If you find squatting too difficult, enquire about an extra short Lillipad. To use the extra short Lillipad you sit on the toilet seat and lift your feet onto the footpads as in the photo below.
Before squatting (especially in the morning) it is good to do some stretching. Try lifting each foot in turn behind your back with your hand to stretch your thighs.
A handrail, wall or solid bathroom furniture may provide support.
The best way to get onto the Lillipad is to step backwards placing the toes of one foot onto the front inside section of a footpad. Squat down until the heel of your foot rests on the footpad and your full weight is supported by that foot, then lift the other foot into position.
The man in the picture has big feet (notice his toes hang over the front of the footpad). Foot size is not an issue. If you wear shoes the sole will support your toes.
With some practice you can actually leave your trousers around your ankles during these maneuvers without mishap.
Ensure that the toilet is secure and in good condition before transferring your weight onto the toilet rim.
Semi-squat position
Try raising the feet onto the step while sitting on the toilet and lean forwards. This semi-squat position provides similar benefits with less effort.
Children
Is it necessary to discourage toddlers from squatting so soon to ‘toilet train’ them? Can you find a potty or re-use a plastic container that encourages your toddler to squat rather than sit? How about using toilet paper to line a long rectangular ice-cream container. Children and adults who can’t leave floor level have managed successfully with this system.
When ready, children are generally light enough to squat on the toilet seat. However, if they are sitting, it is best for them to rest their feet on the step, it gives them something to push against. When finished, with the aid of the step on the Lillipad, children are able to reach up and flush the toilet.
