What makes a chair non-ergonomic?
Just to spell it out, here’s a handy checklist of features that should raise red flags if you’re on the hunt for a truly ergonomic chair. That little, jewel-toned velvet number that matches your study’s wallpaper? That leather statement piece oozing I’m-the-boss vibes? That sleek minimalistic masterpiece? Whatever you’ve got your eye on, use this list to save yourself a whole lot of backache.
1. Lack of Adjustability
Fixed seats and backrests are trademarks of non-ergonomic chairs, meaning that they cannot move naturally with your body. This can result in poor posture, back pain, the list goes on.
2. Unsupportive Backrest
Chairs that have backrests that are too low or lack lumbar support are totally unergonomic. Go this route and say hello to poor spinal alignment and back pain.
3. Poor Seat Depth
Good posture is impossible to maintain when seats are too shallow or too deep. The rule of thumb is that when seated, your feet should be flat on the ground. Seat depth makes all the difference.
4. No Armrests or Fixed Armrests
Impacting your arms, shoulders and neck, the lack of armrests or fixed armrests that are either too low or too high, can cause serious discomfort. Adjustable armrests are a necessity, not a nice-to-have.
5. Limited or No Back Tilt
Non-ergonomic chairs usually lack a recline function or have limited back tilt options. This makes it difficult for users to change their sitting position effortlessly – crucial for comfort and concentration.
6. Non-Breathable Materials
Even the materials a chair is made from can affect how ergonomic it is. Non-ergonomic chairs often feature materials that don’t allow proper airflow, causing sweating and discomfort when sitting for an extended period (or racing to meet that deadline).
7. One-size-fits-all design
One-size-fits-all might work for umbrellas, but chairs designed with this approach do not accommodate the varied needs and body types of users. No matter the weather, an ergonomic chair is capable of adjusting intelligently, and for the most part automatically, to optimise comfort for your unique form.