How to Drastically Improve Your Desk Posture

Advice for Improving Your Posture While You Work

Whether you are back in an office setting, or working from home, most professionals find themselves face to face with a computer screen, sitting for long periods of time. This is a recipe for poor posture and the underlying affects that has on our bodies. Although this is a chronic problem, there are things you can do to improve your posture and prevent long-term damage. 

Common Posture Problems to Avoid

Keep an eye out for these behaviors: 

• Slouching or hunching over a keyboard or laptop
• Sitting for extended periods of time without a break
• Sitting criss cross applesauce in your chair, or crossing your legs or ankles
• Bad alignment and height positioning of your desk and/or chair causing you to strain your arms, legs, or neck

If you thought, “I do that” it’s probably time to start thinking about how you can improve your posture and prevent injury by implementing ergonomic practices. 

Tips for Improving Your Posture at Your desk

Try these great tips for making sure your back is straight and in alignment!

1. Create an Ergonomic Workstation – Check out our latest blog that breaks down the five must-haves for any ergonomic workspace and start there. The best investment you can make is in a quality chair, desk, and accessories that allow you to sit and/or stand comfortably while you work, without straining your neck or body. 
2. Follow Good Posture Protocol – This tip is going to require you to do some self policing to make sure you stick with it and catch yourself when you get sloppy. Practice makes perfect when it comes to teaching your body to naturally sit properly. Start with these steps: 
   • Sit with your back flat against the back of your chair
   • Evenly distribute your body weight  in the seat
   • Make sure your feet are flat on the floor
   • Invest in lumbar support to give your spine a rest
3. Take Sitting Breaks – When practicing good posture, sitting can become even more exhausting. It is a good idea to take a break from being sedentary at least once every hour. Set an alarm or work in scheduled breaks to your work schedule to ensure you give yourself that time to incorporate some movement into your body. 
4. Make Exercise Part of Your Regular Routine – Believe it or not, workout regularly will strengthen your muscles needed to help you maintain good posture throughout your day. Aim for at least three days of regular exercise like yoga, weight training, pilates, or running. On days you don’t have a formal workout planned, make sure you incorporate movement of some sort into your daily routine like walking, taking the stairs, and stretching. 
5. Invest in Proper Footwear – I know we all love a great stiletto or a classy dress shoe, but some options aren’t so great if you are going to be on your feet for a while. Especially if you are utilizing a standing desk, make sure your footwear provides you the support you need to stand for longer periods of time or go barefoot (when appropriate). 

Go Ergonomic

E3 Consulting is here to help you and your company create an ergonomic work environment that will satisfy everyone. Our training classes teach these types of topics like maintaining good posture and so much more. Contact us today to learn more about our services.