Sit Right: Mastering Ergonomics in the Office

When selecting the perfect office chair, it’s essential to consider these key ergonomic principles to ensure you're comfortable and supported throughout the day.

• Good Lumbar Support

A chair with solid lumbar support is a must. It should gently curve to fit your lower back, helping to prevent slouching and rounding. This support is most effective when it’s tailored to your body size and shape, or at least adjustable to suit you.

• Adjustable Seat Height and Angle

Your seat height plays a big role in posture. You want your hips to be slightly higher than your knees, with the seat slightly angled downward. This positioning opens up your hips, reducing strain on your lower back. Also, make sure your seat height allows your forearms to rest comfortably parallel to the desk. If your feet don’t touch the floor, a footrest can help bring your posture back in line.

• Adjustable Armrests (or Just Right as Is)

Armrests should support your forearms without raising your shoulders. You want to feel relaxed, not like you're shrugging up towards your ears. However, if the armrests prevent you from getting close enough to your desk, it could cause postural issues. If you often need to work close to your desk, you might want to consider skipping armrests altogether. For those who don’t spend most of their time up close, armrests should be fine. And remember, it's always good to shift your position now and then – so don't be afraid to scoot your seat forward or adjust your posture every so often.

• Seat Size Matters

The seat depth is important for comfort. Aim for about 2-3 fingers' width between the edge of the seat and the back of your knees. This small gap helps ensure you're not cramped, which can impact comfort during long hours of sitting.

• Sturdy Build

A chair should feel solid, not too wobbly or flimsy. You want it to offer stability, including in the backrest, so it supports you without tipping or giving way when you lean back.

• The Option to Lean Back

Being able to "unlock" your chair and lean back with your feet propped up on your desk can make a big difference. Changing your posture every 30 minutes helps spread the strain across different muscles, which is great for avoiding stiffness. This feature offers a comfortable way to relax your body when you're simply reading from your screen.