Are you like me and so many others out there? Have you searched for an office chair that will be comfortable for those long workdays and have been told to look for a chair that is “ergonomic”? If you’re like me, you have found innumerable chairs that called themselves “ergonomic” in a variety of price ranges and you’re left more confused than ever! How could that be, and what does “ergonomic” even mean?
Unfortunately, what I’ve learned is that the term "ergonomic" is often used as a marketing term. It's important to not just accept the label but to dig deeper.
The Oxford Dictionary defines ergonomics as “the study of people’s efficiency in their working environment”. When used in relation to a chair, it implies that the ergonomic chair should optimize efficiency in the work environment. The features are typically adjustable and are supposed to support the body to optimize posture for prolonged sitting. This all sounds great, right?
The problem is that the term "ergonomic" is not regulated or standardized, meaning that it can be used to describe any chair. This is why so many people are dissatisfied with their ergonomic chairs!
This is why we shouldn’t just fall for the term “ergonomic”. Look for more specifics beyond the label “ergonomic”.
The pelvis is the foundation of sitting and determines the position of the spine. A neutral pelvis, held by a pelvis support will result in an effortless upright posture.
When the pelvis is supported and the spine is upright, the upper back will not naturally make contact with the chair. This is why an adjustable upper back should be used and adjusted to support the upper back.
The arm supports should be able to adjust in multiple directions to get the arms in an optimal position. And don’t forget to look for arm pads that move back to allow you to get as close to the desk as possible.
Rather than recline, look for a chair that tilts, which means the seat and back move together as a unit. This allows you to maintain your posture in a resting position.
So, if you're in the market for an office chair, it's important to do your research and not just rely on the label "ergonomic." Look for chairs that have been tested by independent organizations and have proven to provide the support and comfort needed for good posture.
In the end, it's better to be cautious and well-informed when making a purchase that will impact your daily comfort and health.
If you are looking to improve posture while sitting, look no further than Anthros.
Anthros is the only chair in the world that is guaranteed to improve posture, or your money back. The science-backed, patented design is registered with the FDA as a posture-improving chair and is proven to have the lowest pressure (most comfortable) cushion on the planet (verified by university testing).
Take the next step to reducing pain, increasing comfort, and maximizing performance!