How to sit at your desk?
If you work with computers, you’re probably doing it wrong. Go through the following checklist, and see where you’re letting yourself down.
-
Your eyes should be level with the top of your computer monitor. This is easier with desktop PCs, but a struggle with laptops where the keyboard and screen are fixed close together.
- Your shoulders should be relaxed and low, not high and hunched up. You should feel like you’re not lifting your shoulders.
-
Your lower arms should be parallel to the floor. They should rest on support, rather than being held up.
-
You shouldn’t be reaching too far for your keyboard and mouse. You should be able to control them easily with arms bent at the elbow.
-
Your feet should be flat on the floor. Just putting your toes on the floor isn’t enough!
-
Your upper back should be straight. Your lower back has a natural curve that should be supported by your chair.
-
You shouldn’t slouch in your chair. Your hips should be as close to the back of the chair as possible.
-
Your upper legs should be at a 90° angle from your body. If you’re short, this may mean that you need a footrest. If you’re particularly tall, you’ll need a higher chair (and may also require a higher desk).
-
You should be sitting up straight and your screen should be a full arm’s length away from you.
-
You shouldn’t be leaning to one side. It can be tempting to rest on one arm, but this causes your spine to curve.
