The True Cost of an Office Chair: Why Ergonomics Matter

Step 1: Choosing the Right Chair

Your chair is the foundation of an ergonomic workspace. A good ergonomic chair should encourage proper posture and ease of movement.
A mechanically advanced chair will easily adapt to your personal weight and size. It should also provide good back support and proper
adjustment range of the seat and back in order to fit you right.

Key Adjustments:

• Seat Height: Adjust your seat so that your elbows align with your keyboard. Your thighs should be parallel to the floor, with feet flat on the ground or on a footrest.
• Seat Depth: Maintain a two-inch gap between the back of your knees and the seat.
• Armrests: Keep them at elbow height to relax your shoulders.
• Back Support: The backrest should support the natural curve of your lower back. If needed, use a rolled-up towel for extra support.
• Recline Tension: Unlock your backrest to allow for movement and weight distribution.

Looking for the perfect chair? Check out our detailed guide on selecting the best ergonomic office chair based on your work hours.

Step 2: Desk Dynamics

An ergonomic desk setup helps minimize strain on your arms, shoulders, and back.

Desk Setup Checklist:

• Height-Adjustable Desk: If possible, invest in a sit/stand desk to alternate between sitting and standing, while also ensuring that you work at the proper seated height for your size.
• Desk Height: Your arms should rest comfortably at a 90-degree (or slightly wider) angle while typing.
• Monitor Positioning: The top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level, about an arm’s length away.
• Desk Organization: Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid unnecessary strain. Your keyboard and mouse should be positioned closest to you, ensuring comfortable input experience and relaxed arm/shoulder posture.

Step 3: Monitor Magic

Proper monitor placement reduces neck and eye strain.

Monitor Setup:

• Eye Level: The top of your screen should be at or slightly below your eye line.
• Distance: Keep the monitor at an arm’s length to prevent eye fatigue.
• Tilt: Slightly tilt the monitor away from your body to align with your natural downward gaze.
• Multiple Monitors: Position them side by side with the main monitor directly in front to avoid excessive neck rotation.

For laptop users, consider using a laptop stand with an external keyboard and mouse for better posture. Learn how the M8 monitor arm improves posture and productivity.

Step 4: Arranging Your Keyboard and Mouse

Incorrect positioning of your keyboard and mouse can cause wrist and shoulder strain.

Best Practices:

• Keyboard Height: Keep it at or slightly below elbow level.
• Wrist Position: Keep wrists straight, and avoid using the keyboard’s tilt tabs.
• Mouse Use: Place the mouse close to the keyboard to prevent overreaching.
• Hand Relaxation: Avoid gripping the mouse too tightly and switch hands occasionally for prolonged use.

Step 5: Incorporating Movement

Sitting for long hours is harmful to your health. Incorporating movement into your workday is essential.

Ways to Move More:

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
• Take Frequent Breaks: Stand or walk every 30–60 minutes.
• Alternate Between Sitting and Standing: Aim to stand for 10 minutes every hour.
• Stretch Regularly: Incorporate desk stretches to relieve tension in your back and shoulders.

Step 6: Using Ergonomic Accessories

Adding ergonomic accessories can further enhance comfort and productivity.

Recommended Accessories:

• Footrest: Supports feet if they don’t touch the ground.
• Monitor Stand or Arm: Helps achieve the correct screen height.
• Anti-Fatigue Mat: Provides cushioning when standing.
• Headset: Reduces strain from cradling the phone between your neck and shoulder.

Step 7: Adjusting Lighting and Reducing Glare

Proper lighting reduces eye strain and headaches.

Lighting Tips:

• Task Lighting: Use a desk lamp with soft lighting for reading documents.
• Screen Positioning: Avoid placing your screen directly in front of a window to reduce glare.
• Blue Light Filters: Use screen filters or software to reduce eye strain.

Avoiding Common Ergonomic Mistakes

Even with the best setup, some common mistakes can still cause discomfort.

Common Mistakes and Fixes:

• Slouching: Keep your back supported and avoid leaning forward.
• Incorrect Desk Height: Adjust your chair or desk to maintain a neutral arm position.
• Sitting Too Long: Set reminders to stand and move.
• Overreaching for Tools: Keep frequently used items within easy reach.

Ergonomic Setup Checklist:

• ✅ Adjustable ergonomic chair with lumbar support
• ✅ Monitor at eye level, arm’s length away
• ✅ Sit-stand desk or footrest
• ✅ Correct keyboard & mouse placement
• ✅ Task lighting and glare control
• ✅ Movement every 30–60 minutes
• ✅ Accessories: laptop stand, headset, anti-fatigue mat

Making It Personal: Your Workspace Evolution

Creating an ergonomic workspace is an investment in your health, comfort, and productivity. Whether you’re a freelancer in Sofia or working remotely from the coast of Varna, Studio Novo supports the way Bulgaria works today.

By setting up your chair, desk, monitor, and accessories correctly, you can work efficiently while minimizing strain and discomfort.

Looking for the best ergonomic chair for your setup? Read our full guide here.

Studio Novo: Local Experts in Ergonomics

Studio Novo provides ergonomic solutions across Bulgaria, from remote workers in Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna, to creative teams and tech startups. Our curated ergonomic products and expert consultations are tailored to the way Bulgarians work today.

📞 Contact: +359 882 282 663
🏢 Showroom: 5 Panorama Sofia Street, XS Tower, Ground Floor, Sofia 1766

Special Offer: Schedule a consultation this month and receive a complimentary ergonomic assessment (€150 value).