Ergonomics & fit

How to choose, adjust, and get the absolute most out of your task chair.

A chair that fits one person perfectly can be completely wrong for the next. Good ergonomics isn't about finding a one-size-fits-all chair — it's about understanding how to tailor a chair to your unique body. Use this guide to set up your current chair, or to evaluate a new one for your workspace.

The 5 keys to proper seating fit

1. Seat height & knee angle

Position your seat height so your feet rest flat on the floor with your thighs parallel to the ground, allowing your knees to be bent at a right angle or slightly less — an open angle of 90°–105°.

Why knee angle matters: placing your feet slightly forward opens up the knee joint beyond 90°. This relieves pressure behind the legs, improves circulation, and reduces stress on the kneecap and hamstrings during long sitting periods.

2. Seat depth

When sitting all the way back against the headrest or lumbar support, you should have a small gap — about two to three finger-widths — between the front edge of the seat cushion and the back of your knees.

Quick check: if the seat is too deep, you'll naturally slide or perch forward, losing back support entirely. If it's too shallow, your legs won't get enough support over long hours.

3. Back & lumbar support

Your spine has a natural inward curve at the lower back. A supportive backrest should cushion and maintain this curve without pushing uncomfortably into your spine.

Quick check: height- or depth-adjustable lumbar support becomes increasingly vital the longer you sit. Position the lumbar cushion right around your belt line, where your back curves inward.

4. Armrests

Armrests should be set at a height that allows your shoulders to stay naturally relaxed, with your forearms resting lightly without causing you to slouch or elevate your shoulders.

Quick check: armrests that bump into your desk or prevent you from pulling close to your keyboard are worse than no armrests at all. Adjust them low or back so you can reach your work comfortably.

5. Movement & posture changes

Even the best ergonomic chair in the world isn't designed to keep you frozen in one spot all day. Our bodies thrive on subtle movement and regular posture adjustments.

Quick check: unlock your chair's tilt mechanism to allow smooth dynamic movement during calls or reading, and remember to stand up or stretch for a minute every hour.

Quick setup checklist

Feet & knees: feet flat on the floor with knees at 90°–105° (feet slightly forward to reduce leg pressure and enhance circulation).
Seat depth: 2–3 fingers of clearance behind the knee joint.
Lower back: lumbar cushion nestled comfortably into the lower spine curve.
Shoulders & arms: shoulders dropped and relaxed, forearms level with the desk.
Routine: stand up, stretch, or change seating posture every 45–60 minutes.