Ergonomics 101: Controlling Your Office Chair

So you've invested in a new ergonomic office chair. Congratulations! Now you're probably thinking "what's next". That's totally okay, and in fact it's very common. Often shoppers purchase a new chair with little-to-no ergonomic knowledge on how to get the most out of it. That's where we come in. Today on the OFD blog we'll provide you with the tips and tricks needed to better control your office chair to achieve the comfort you deserve.

First things first, you need to select a user friendly office chair that won't leave you with migraine. Do your research up front by visiting a showroom in your area. You'll be rewarded during your visit with an array of ergonomic tips from the pros.

If you don't have a showroom in your area, check out demo videos and reviews online. They really come in handy during the selection process.

If you've already purchased a new office chair for your workspace, don't fret. We'll help you learn how to properly control it to achieve a high quality sit. Once you've got your chair assembled, bust out the owners manual. Give it a read and test out the features of your chair as you cover them. This will ensure that your chair is working properly.

Do your best to commit your chair features to memory. Doing so will have you more willing to adjust throughout the day to maintain comfort levels. In truth, even the best ergonomic chair is only as good as its owner. If you don't take the time to memorize your features, how will you know what's adjustments are needed to sit correctly?

We understand that it's not easy to memorize an array of chair features. That's why we recommend labeling the levers on your chair mechanism. Believe it or not, this little trick really comes in handy! If the levers on your personal task chair are to small to label, color code them with stickers. You can then post a chart that describes what each color coded lever does in eye sight of your computer screen. You'll be controlling your chair more effectively in no time.

It always helps to keep your manual handy. From time to time you might need a little refresher course. You might even consider taking your chair apart for maintenance once in awhile. Having the manual in a nearby desk drawer is a must.

Now let's talk a little bit about good posture. Forming good posture habits will help you better control your personal sit and the adjustments needed to maintain long term comfort. The basic tips listed below will get you started.

• Keep Back In Contact With Chair At All Times
• Keep Feet Planted Flat On The Ground And Facing Forward
• Raise Computer Screens To Avoid Looking Down
• Don't Sit For More Than An Hour At A Time

The last tip is a biggie! As you sit for long periods of time, you'll be less likely to control your office chair correctly. After hours of extended sitting, even the best posture habits suffer. That's why it's important to take short breaks to stay refreshed. If you can't find the time to take short breaks once per hour, consider investing in a height adjustable desktop convertor or work surface attachment the encourages continuous movement in the workplace.

You can't be afraid to control your office chair. The idea that you might "loose a comfortable setting" forces all too many workers to take a set-it and forget-it approach to workplace ergonomics. This isn't a healthy choice and won't help you control your chair.

When it comes to comfort, don't procrastinate. You have to be ready, willing, and able to adjust at a moments notice. Once pain sets in, it's hard to backtrack. The ability to control your office chair effectively comes with practice. Those who memorize their chair features, adjust regularly, and focus on posture are sure to get the most out of their ergonomic investment.