In a world where meetings are increasingly virtual, the working day has become more sedentary than ever and the average office worker spends an alarming 70% of their day sitting down. Finding ways to look after our bodies at work is therefore crucial, but besides getting up and walking around little and often, what else can we really do to counteract the negative impact of sitting hunched over a computer?
Choosing the right office chair can make a world of difference when it comes to staying healthy at work. There are all kinds of different office chairs to pick from, but it is ergonomic office chairs that will make the most difference to employee comfort and well-being. Find the right one with this Cost Cutters guide.
What Is An Ergonomic Office Chair?
An ergonomic office chair is a chair specially designed for the human body. Offering much more than simply a place to perch, ergonomic office chairs are constructed with lumbar support which essentially cushions and holds the lower back and spine in the right position to promote the correct posture.
The Benefits Of Ergonomic Office Chairs
By providing the right support to the user, ergonomic office chairs offer unrivalled levels of comfort. Though comfort alone is enough benefit to justify the investment for your workforce, the advantages of ergonomic office chairs extend way beyond this and include:
Improved Posture
Ergonomic office chairs are designed to support the natural curvature of the spine and promote proper posture. By offering the right lumbar support, these chairs encourage the user to sit in a more upright position which is not only more comfortable when at a desk all day, but also helps to reduce any pain which may occur as a result of slouching or hunching.
Reduce Fatigue
As well as preventing poor posture, the comfortable construction of ergonomic office chairs can reduce employee fatigue. Padded seat cushions and functional arms evenly distribute the user’s body weight and make it much easier to sit for extended periods of time without feeling agitated and tired. Without being waylaid by discomfort, employees have more energy to apply to their work and will ultimately be more productive.
Prevent Health Problems
Investing in ergonomic office chairs can also contribute to the long-term health of you and your employees. By providing proper support and encouraging proper sitting habits and posture, an ergonomic office chair helps to prevent any unnecessary strain on muscles and joints. Although this is not a total substitute for exercise and movement, such support does reduce the likelihood of many injuries or health problems that are commonly associated with prolonged sitting and a sedentary lifestyle.
The Different Types Of Ergonomic Office Chairs
So you’re sold on the benefits of ergonomic office chairs, what next? There are a number of different types available here at Cost Cutters, each with their own individual benefits or features. Read up on each to determine which is the most suitable for your office or workspace.
Ergonomic Office Chair With Fixed Arms
An ergonomic office chair with fixed arms is arguably the most basic type of ergonomic office chair. These chairs come equipped with armrests that are stationary and cannot be adjusted, providing a reliable surface that reduces strain towards the shoulders. While ergonomic office chairs with fixed arms may not offer the levels of customisation required for employees with specific back issues or joint problems, the consistent level of support can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a stable arm position.
Ergonomic Office Chair Without Arms
Alternatively, some workplaces opt for ergonomic office chairs without arms. These chairs are particularly popular with those who prefer a greater range of movement throughout the day. Rather than being boxed into the chair by arms, users are encouraged to maintain a balanced and open posture which reduces the risk of slouches and promotes an engaged sitting position. Ergonomic office chairs without arms are also a great choice for crowded workspaces as they can tuck neatly under the desk when not in use.
Ergonomic Office Chair With Adjustable Arms
For workplaces with flexible needs, ergonomic office chairs with adjustable arms are the perfect choice. Each user can customise the armrest height and angle to fit their individual needs, ensuring that the armrests are aligned with the body correctly to reduce strain on the shoulders and neck. If space is tight but chairs without arms aren’t suitable, these can also be a fantastic choice. Simply adjust the armrest to a level that will be comfortable for the user but slide under the desk without too much friction at the end of the working day.
High Back Ergonomic Office Chair
If you or your staff are unable to leave their desks for long periods of the day, a high back chair is probably a wise choice. High back ergonomic office chairs are designed with taller backrests than their similar counterparts. Generally, these chairs offer enhanced lumbar support as the upper back, shoulders and neck are all kept in a comfortable position by the extended backrest. This can promote better spinal alignment and really maximise the level of comfort offered during extended periods of sitting.
Ergonomic Office Chair With Head Rest
Lastly, you can also opt for an ergonomic chair with a built-in headrest. Some users find that the support offered by a headrest is unnecessary, but such specialised support can be required by those who experience head or neck pain. The headrest encourages proper head positioning to reduce strain on the neck and upper back muscles which adds to the overall comfort provided by the ergonomic construction and can minimise the risk of headaches or strain throughout the day.
Ready to transform the seating arrangements in your office or workspace with ergonomic office chairs? Hopefully this guide has provided you with all of the information you need to find the perfect chairs for your space, but if you need any additional guidance don’t hesitate to get in touch with the expert team here at Cost Cutters UK. We can talk you through the different benefits of our wide range of ergonomic office chairs and help you to totally transform your office space with our space planning services.