Whether you are working in an office or at home, it is essential to have a comfortable ergonomic chair to ensure that your posture is always in the proper position. This is because bad posture will lead to a few health issues, such as:
- back pain
- spinal dysfunction
- rounded shoulders
- joint degeneration
- potbelly
While it’s important to select the right one, picking the right ergonomic chair in Malaysia can be overwhelming as there are so many different brands and types to choose from in the market. Moreover, you would also want to ensure that you are getting a chair at a reasonable price that is durable as well. So, here’s what you should look out for when selecting the perfect chair for yourself.
What is an ergonomic chair?
Did you know that a person spends at least 13 years of their life at work? This is why having a good ergonomic chair is crucial. But what is an ergonomic chair and what makes it so different? Well, an ergonomic chair is mainly an office chair with features such as:
- adjustable height and seat depth
- lumbar support
- sufficient padding
A good ergonomic chair is supposed to provide comfort, which will increase the level of productivity and decrease the risk of health complications in the long run.
Things to consider when choosing an ergonomic chair
If you are in the market to get an ergonomic office chair in Malaysia, here are a few things that you have to look out for to ensure that the chair is suitable for you.
Check seat lumbar support
An ergonomic chair with lumbar support is vital as your lower back has to be supported when you are sitting for an extended period. Without lumbar support, you will slouch and strain the structures in your lower spine. To ensure that the lumbar support is suitable for you, try sitting on the chair, then lean back. If the back of the chair fits the natural curve of your spine comfortably, that would be considered the perfect ergonomic chair for you.
Height of seat
Generally, most ergonomic chairs come with adjustable height to ensure that you are seated at the recommended height. To ensure that it provides the right height for you, here are some simple steps to sitting on an ergonomic chair in the perfect position:
- Make sure that your feet are flat on the floor
- Your thighs are horizontal
- Your arms are at an even height with the desk
The height range for a standard ergonomic chair is usually from 16 to 21 inches off the ground.
Armrest
You may think that armrests are not a necessity; however, this feature plays a vital role in an ergonomic chair. The armrests on the chair help take some of the strain off your neck and shoulders. An additional benefit will be if the armrests are adjustable.
The right armrest should allow you to rest your elbows and lower arms comfortably while also ensuring that your forearms are not on the armrest while typing.
Backrest
A standard measurement for the backrest of an ergonomic chair is about 12 to 19 inches wide. Which is why you should look for a chair with an adjustable backrest so that you will be able to adjust to the appropriate position that is suitable for you. Other than that, also ensure that there is a locking mechanism to prevent the back from tilting backwards and resetting the position of the backrest.
Mobility
An ergonomic chair is also supposed to increase the level of efficiency to move around besides productivity; hence, the chair’s mobility has to be smooth without any difficulty. You should be able to move around in your chair by simply rotating it while sitting and reaching different spots in your work area without any strain. Ensure that the wheels on the chair are suitable for your floor, including carpeted flooring, hard flooring, or a combination. Investing in a chair mat will be useful, especially if you have carpeted flooring.
Chair material
Picking an ergonomic chair made of breathable material is crucial, especially if you are sitting on it for an extended period. This will be an added benefit as well if you are working in a space without air conditioning. Also, be sure that the chair’s padding is sufficient without being too hard or soft. Sitting on padding that is too hard for long hours will be uncomfortable and painful after some time, while too soft padding offers little to no support.
Finalise your choice
Before purchasing your ergonomic chair, it is best to find out by researching what features are needed from the chair to help support your body structure and reduce the pain of any existing health issues such as lower back pain or tight shoulders. If needed, seek out advice from professionals as well such as a physical therapist.
Everyone has different requirements to meet the expected comfort level. Hence, it is important that you personally try out the chair before purchasing while considering all of the elements stated above, especially if you are planning to invest in a more expensive ergonomic chair.
Looking for the best ergonomic office chair in Malaysia? Try Chesters Collection
You can find a wide range of ergonomic chairs at Chesters Collection with specialists who will recommend you the perfect chair that is durable and comfortable. To find out, contact us or speak to an advisor at +603-22838322.