How To Sit Correctly In Your Office Or Gaming Chair

Being seated all day in front of a computer is a risky business these days, especially as more of us are spending an increased amount of time working from home.

If you’re not using an ergonomic chair designed for long periods of sitting, such as an office or gaming chair, then you could be putting your back at risk of injury. But even if you have purchased this type of chair, you may still not be using it in the right way.

So, we thought we’d share five simple steps to help you sit correctly.

Step 1: Check your back is supported

Most office and gaming chairs come with supportive padding across the seat and back. If you have removable back cushions and neck pillows, then make sure both your lumbar region, neck and shoulders are fully supported by moving these into a comfortable position. As well as have an adjustable height mechanism and recline functions, many models of office chair also have the ability to tilt the seat for extra comfort and support.

Step 2: Check your feet are flat on the floor

Next, adjust the height of the chair to ensure your feet are flat on the floor – for example, the NHS advise that your “knees should be slightly lower than your hips. Use a footrest, if it feels necessary.” Many gaming chairs come with a footstool, so check if this is the best option for you. It’s important to sit in a way that doesn’t cause you to cross your legs, so you can avoid any future problems with your posture.

Step 3: Check the position of your arms

The next step is to make sure your forearms are straight in relation to your keyboard, as well as the floor. This is important because if you’re not positioned correctly, you will place extra pressure on your wrists, which will increase the risk of getting RSI (repetitive strain injury). Keep your elbows to the side of your body and make an L-shape at your elbow joints.

Step 4: Check your screen is eye level

This is one of the most common errors people make; being hunched over a laptop screen or viewing a monitor at the side of the desk. Bad monitor positioning will cause you to bend your neck, which can then lead to chronic pain and damage over time. So, always make sure your screen is directly in front of you, about an arm’s length in distance and at eye level – use a laptop stand, if needed.

Step 5: Check your keyboard and mouse

So, you’re now sat comfortably at your desk with your screen in front of you, but what about your keyboard and mouse? Similar to your monitor, your keyboard should also be directly in front of you and not at an angle. Allow a good gap (10 - 15 cm) at the edge of your desk, so you can easily rest your wrists whenever you stop typing. Keep your mouse as close as possible to avoid any strain. You could also use a mouse mat with a supportive wrist pad.

Get an office or gaming chair today

Once you’re correctly positioned in your office or gaming chair, it’s worth making sure that your surrounding area is also fit for purpose. The aim of the game should be to minimise any potential strain by having to reach out for everyday objects, such as pens and staplers. Also, avoid having to cradle your phone in between your shoulder and ears because this can lead to neck strain in the long term.

Have you read this article and suddenly realised your current chair is not giving you the support you need? If so, why not check out our vast range of office and gaming chairs? Every one of our chairs comes with a 12-month guarantee and a 30-day returns policy. So, you will always have peace of mind when you order from us.

At Furniture Online, our customer service team have expert knowledge and experience when it comes to ergonomic chairs. Contact us by using our online web chat tool if you need any help or advice.