How to Sit Properly

 

So you have your chosen task chair, the question now is- how do you sit in in properly? This is actually a much more complex question than you might think and there a varying opinions on the matter.

Proper seating has a lot to do with proper posture. The rules of good that you learned throughout your life can be applied to seating as a simple first step. Keep your shoulders back, your spine straight, and don't hunch over your keyboard. Although some people don't think slouching is that bad, it is generally seen as a problem and that you are better off leaning back with a straighter posture than leaning forward with your back arched.

As far as seat height goes, your goal should be a height that is enough that your feet can rest flat on the floor with your knees at slightly more than a 90 degree angle.

The backrest should be at slightly more than 90 degrees, so it is pushed slightly back. Leaning back periodically is a good way to take stress off of the spine, though you should definitely stand up a walk around when you can. Make sure to keep your back in contact with the backrest and to have proper lower back support if necessary.

Arm rests are a separate factor from general seating, but they are still important. Your arms should be at about a 90 degree angle or so and you should be careful to keep pressure off of your elbow joints. You should make sure your neck and shoulders are relaxed, especially while doing tasks like typing and using your monitor.

Some seats have a seat pan adjustment that can place you further forward or back on the chair. Your buttocks should be kept up the back of the seat- this will ensure that your spine is kept in the proper position. If you are seated this way the seat will be able to do its job and keep you properly positioned.

There are a lot of other factors to consider, but if you take these basics into consideration you will have set the foundation for proper seating. If you just want to keep a few simple things in your mind remember to stay neutral, sit up straight, and if anything starts to hurt on a consistent manner examine your setup and figure out what is wrong.