Setting up an ergonomic workstation requires understanding your body's biomechanics and how furniture positioning affects your health. This guide provides step-by-step instructions you can implement immediately.
Step 1: Chair Positioning Your chair height is foundational. Sit back fully in your chair with your back against the backrest. Your feet should rest flat on the floor with knees at approximately 90 degrees. If your feet dangle, use a footrest (we recommend the ErgoFoam model). Adjust armrests so your elbows rest at 90 degrees when relaxed.
Step 2: Desk Height With your chair correctly positioned and arms relaxed at your sides, your desk should be at elbow height. You shouldn't stretch upward or reach downward to type. If you're using a standard desk and you're not average height, a standing desk like the FEZIBO provides necessary adjustment flexibility. This is the single most important positioning decision.
Step 3: Monitor Height and Distance Your monitor's top should align with eye level. If you use multiple monitors, position your primary monitor directly in front of you. Secondary monitors should be angled 30-40 degrees from your peripheral vision. Distance matters: position monitors about 24 inches (arm's length) away. The Rain Design mStand helps achieve proper height.
Step 4: Keyboard and Mouse Positioning These should sit directly in front of you at elbow height, allowing 90-degree elbow angles while typing. Your wrists should remain neutral—not bent up, down, or to the sides. The Logitech Ergo K860 keyboard promotes this naturally.
Step 5: Lighting Optimization Poor lighting causes eye strain, neck strain, and headaches. Avoid placing your monitor directly in front of windows—glare strains your eyes. The BenQ ScreenBar provides optimal front-lighting, reducing contrast between your screen and surroundings.
Step 6: Accessory Integration Add the ErgoFoam Foot Rest to encourage movement. If you sit for extended periods, incorporate the Everlasting Comfort Seat Cushion for lumbar support. These accessories fine-tune your setup based on your daily needs.
Step 7: Movement and Breaks Even the perfect setup doesn't replace movement. Stand or stretch every 30 minutes. If using a standing desk, alternate positions every 20-30 minutes. Movement prevents stiffness and maintains healthy circulation.
After implementing these changes, give yourself a full week to adapt. Your body may feel slightly different initially as unused muscles engage. Pain should improve noticeably within 2-3 weeks. If problems persist, consider consulting an occupational therapist for personalized assessment.