Choosing the right office chair starts with knowing how to match it to your body. An ill-fitting chair can lead to discomfort, poor posture, and long-term health issues. But don’t worry—that’s entirely avoidable. By taking a few simple measurements, you can find a perfectly tailored fit that supports your body throughout the workday.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure seat height, seat depth, lumbar curve, and arm reach effectively. With this information, you’ll be well-equipped to choose an office chair that works for your needs.
1. Measuring Seat Height
The seat height of an office chair determines if your feet rest flat on the ground while your knees are at a 90-degree angle. If it’s too tall or too short, you can experience pressure on your thighs or poor blood circulation.
Step 1
Sit on a flat surface, like a dining chair, keeping your back straight and knees at a right angle.
Step 2
Measure the distance from the floor to the underside of your thigh, just behind your knee.
A proper seat height usually falls between 43-53 cm from the ground for most adults. When looking for chairs, adjustable height options like the Lundia Ergonomic Task Chair can help you fine-tune this measurement to suit your body perfectly.
2. Measuring Seat Depth
Seat depth refers to how much space your thighs are supported by the chair. If a seat is too shallow, your legs won’t feel supported. If it’s too deep, you might struggle to sit back against the backrest.
Step 1
Sit on a firm surface with your back fully against the backrest.
Step 2
Measure the distance from the back of your hips to roughly two inches behind your knees.
Most ergonomic chairs have a seat depth of between 40-50 cm, with adjustability allowing you to tailor it to your comfort. Chairs like the Lundia Operator Chair often come with this adjustable feature.
3. Measuring Lumbar Curve
The lumbar support in an office chair is vital for maintaining your natural spine shape, particularly in the lower back. Proper lumbar support will help reduce slouching and lower back pain.
Step 1
Ask someone to measure the distance from your lower back (lumbar curve) to the back of your hips as you stand straight.
Step 2
Compare this measurement to the lumbar support offered on your shortlisted chairs.
The Lundia Mesh Office Chair features superb lumbar adjustment options, ideal for tailoring the support to your natural back curve. A quick demo can help confirm the right fit.
4. Measuring Arm Reach
Armrests play a crucial role in reducing shoulder strain during long working hours. Ill-fitting armrests can make your shoulders hunch or leave your arms unsupported.
Step 1
Sit in a relaxed, neutral position with your arms bent at 90 degrees, simulating your desk posture.
Step 2
Measure the distance from the underside of your elbow to the chair seat’s surface. Ensure the chair’s armrests are adjustable enough to support this height.
Chairs like the Adjustable Lundia Swivel Chair provide customisable armrest features, making it a great solution for achieving optimal arm position.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Office Chair
Once you’ve measured your body, consider these extra features to enhance your comfort and mobility:
- Adjustability: Ideally, every aspect of the chair—from height to lumbar support and armrests—should be adjustable for personalised comfort.
- Material: Look for breathable fabrics like mesh or cushioned seats for better comfort over long periods.
- Mobility: Wheels and swivel functionality improve versatility, particularly for hybrid work setups.
If you’re unsure about your exact needs, why not test some options in person? You can visit the Lundia York Showroom to experience various styles and designs before making a decision.
Wrap-Up
An office chair isn’t just another piece of furniture—it’s an investment in your health and productivity. By following this guide and measuring your body’s requirements, you can select a chair that enhances both comfort and posture. Take a look at Lundia’s wide range of adjustable and ergonomic options—they’re tailored to fit every body type and budget.
Feeling overwhelmed by the choices? Our friendly experts at Lundia are just a call or click away to guide you to the perfect chair!
