As Robert De Niro once said, “If it’s the right chair, it doesn’t take too long to get comfortable in it.”  However, many of us are forced into using uncomfortable chairs at work.  Instead of the chair molding itself to our body, we are forced to mold our bodies to our chairs.  As a result, we get backaches, headaches and other problems resulting from bad posture.

We may do yoga or other forms of exercise to make ourselves feel better but if we’re sitting the wrong way for 8-9 hours of the day, it’s very difficult to get rid of the ill effects.  So it’s better to find a chair that’s the right fit for you.  Unfortunately, when it comes to chairs, it’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing.  Different people feel comfortable in different chairs.  So how do you go about ordering the right chairs for your office?  Here are a few things to consider:

1. How does it feel?  You need to sit on a chair in order to decide whether it would be the right purchase for your office.  Some chairs are uncomfortable for a wide variety of people while others are ergonomically built.  You can’t get each and every one of your employees to check out the chairs you buy.  However, you can at least sit on them yourself and see how they feel before you make a decision.
2. Is it adjustable?  Many chairs are adjustable in terms of height, arms, back rest etc.  The more adjustable a chair is, the more likely it is that all your employees will be able to adjust it and sit on it in some way.
3. Is it soft?  It’s obviously a good idea to buy something with a bit of padding so that your employees are comfortable sitting on it.  However, even chairs with mesh seats and backs can be quite comfortable.  The idea is to get something with a little bit of give.
4. Is it ergonomically made?  You can check out the specifications of the chair to find out if any ergonomic ideas went into its construction.  If the chair has specifically been made with ergonomics in mind, chances are it will be comfortable.
5. Does it have an S curve?  If you look at the human back, you’ll find that it’s not ramrod straight.  Instead, it has an S curve which goes out a little bit in the upper back and comes in a little bit around the waist.  The chair you’re sitting in also needs to have an S curve so that it corresponds to the body.
6. Does it have a headrest?  Many people underestimate the importance of a headrest.  Sometimes, your neck and head remain so stiff without a headrest that your back has to take all the strain.  Having an adjustable headrest can make the day go by much faster.

Contact us for more tips on finding the right chair for you and your employees.