If you are working for eight hours a day or longer, then there is a good chance that you are spending a long time sitting. A task chair is a specialized chair that is designed to meet specific chairs that an office or desk chair typically does not include. We will discuss some things that you should know to design the perfect work set-up. We have also developed a list of key factors to keep in mind when evaluating whether a task chair is suitable for you.
Balancing Health and Function
Modern task chairs stem from telephone operators and stenographers. These workers needed a way to do their work effectively, but efficiently. If your work is computer based, then you are likely doing a lot of typing as you input or sort through information. A task chair is designed to promote better posture so that you can maintain a faster typing speed without having to compensate.
Task chairs promote better posture by helping you to keep your back straight and upright — weight is taking off your shoulders so that you do not appear slouched or hunched in appearance. This minimizes stress on the joints and ligaments without losing any of the functionality you need to get your job done.
- Reduces pain: The back and spine are filled with many sensitive nerves — a task chair alleviates pain by reducing nerve compression and pressure. If you are struggling with backaches, pain, or muscle tightness than a task chair may be something that you should consider buying.
- Environmental aesthetics: A task chair adds to your room decor by giving your space a professional touch that symbolizes the commitment and respect that clients can expect from you.
- Efficiency: The space saving features and design of a task chair means that you save more room underneath your desk with less bulkiness as compared to a standard executive chair. Task chairs typically have more swivel to them so reaching around for things tends to be a lot easier.
Highly Versatile
Simple, but efficient designs means that a task chair is better able to accommodate various work spaces. This makes them ideal if you are using a shared space. Task chairs are also great in catering to larger body types that may need more room or support in order to sit comfortably. Even where a task chair is shared amongst two or more coworkers, the ability to set up and go with few adjustments if needed can be very appealing if you value that kind of structure.
Finding The Task Chair For You
With so many options and different task chairs available on the market, it can be difficult to know exactly which chair is right for you and all your needs. However, there are a few considerations that you might want to account for when evaluating different chairs.
- Comfort and support: Improper support is a recipe for pain, discomfort, and stress. If you are not comfortably supported, then you could suffer serious health issues in the long term. Prioritize your health and safety so that you can avoid unnecessary health consequences by tackling this factor before issues arise.
- Price: Cost is an important consideration, especially if you are on a budget. Just be mindful that a larger investment upfront may give you a greater return in the long run. You can always maximize your dollar through in store specials, rebates, coupons, or other incentives that can lower the price tag.
- Adjustability: If you know that you will be in a fixed or stable environment, then this might be less of a consideration for you when looking at a task chair. However, some people may opt for greater adjustability, especially if you are the type that likes to move around a lot while sitting. Adjustability is something you will need to consider if you tend to be taller than the average person. Taller people will need more legroom than a shorter person in order to sit properly.
- Upholstery: The feel of your chair as you sit within it may play a role, especially if you tend to get hot easily. If you are concerned about temperature, look for a chair that has more breathable. Any fabrics or meshes need to be considered, particularly if you are prone to skin irritation. Skin irritation can occur from rubbing and friction that may arise as part of the natural contact your body needs to adhere to the chair.
- Look: The aesthetic and visual appeal of your chair may be important, especially if you are keeping a particular design theme or scheme. The way your chair looks can add to the quality of your decor while also giving insight into your personality if you prefer.
- Swivel: If you are someone that likes to reach around frequently, then consider how much your chair can swivel. Some chairs allow for full rotation, while others offer more tilt and stability for reclining depending on your preferred work style.
- Wheels: Your flooring is a consideration, particularly if you like to move while remaining in your seat. This may appeal to you if you are looking to quickly access something across the room without having to physically get out of your seat.
If possible, try to demo a chair in store rather than buying a chair online. Online purchasing can be more convenient, but there is nothing worse than ordering a chair and then finding out that it will not work for you. Be aware that an online listing may use the terms ‘desk chair’, ‘office chair’, and ‘task chair’ interchangeably. If you are not sure, be sure to reach out to a store’s staffing team, who can point you in the right direction. Testing out a chair in the store allows you the ability to see and use the chair first hand. Since you are going to be spending a large part of your work day sitting in your chair, take the time to discover what will and won’t work for you.