Have you noticed that after spending even an hour in today's stingy airline seats, you walk away feeling like human origami? We here at ATT just returned from a trip to Chicago—days later, our knees still bear the imprint of the tray table.
Art has often observed that sedentary activities can cause significant postural and muscle imbalances. He talked us through some ways to strengthen our sitting and help spare our musculoskeletal systems:
In the car. Check the position of your seat. You should be able to comfortably operate pedals without having to twist your foot to the left or right (seat's too close) or stretching to reach (seat's too far back). Your upper body should be centered on the seatback and within easy reach of the car's controls. If you're driving long distance, be sure to plan some rest stops for stretching and movement.
At your desk. Rest your bottom as far back in your chair as it will go, so that your thighs are fully supported. The height of your chair should allow your feet to rest fully on the floor, knees at no less than 90 degrees. If you like, you can use an adjustable foot rest to keep the pressure off the backs of your legs and to allow balanced shifts in leg position while you sit. But get up, stretch and move around at least once an hour.
On a plane. As we found out, unless you've got the funds to buy a business- or first-class seat, you've got very little control over your in-flight legroom. But the travel site TripAdvisor has put together Seat Guru, a comprehensive guide to choosing a good seat on your next plane trip, including details such as which seats are difficult-to-recline or misaligned on specific planes!
Whatever seat you score, as in your car and office, keep your body as centered and supported by the seat as possible. Bring or request cushions to support your head and neck if you feeling like napping; stay hydrated; and if possible, get up to stretch your legs at least every hour or so.
For more information, visit
DrivingErgonomics.com
The office posture guide from the University of Western Ontario
SeatGuru.com
Share your seating nightmares and solutions below.
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