7 Ergonomic New Year's Resolutions for 2016

The new year is upon us. While you'll likely be committing to laying of fried food, exercising more, and watching less TV, it's also important to focus on being more efficient, comfortable, and healthy in the workplace. In today's post we'll highlight 7 ergonomic resolutions that are sure to help you do just that. Enjoy!

1.) Don't Slouch

Every time you lean forward and away from your chair back, you're missing out on major ergonomic benefits. Be sure to maintain constant contact with your chair back while computing at your desk. Doing so will help you reduce fatigue and muscle stiffness that can quickly put a damper on your work day. Don't be afraid to adjust the angle of your office chair back multiple times throughout the day! 

2.) Keep Computer Screen At Eye Level

Many of us look down at our computer screens all day when typing. This angle is really bad for the neck! To avoid this common problem, raise your computer screen to eye level. The integration of an ergonomic monitor arm will solve this problem. If you're tight on funds, don't worry. A stack of books or magazines can get the job done too. This quick fix resolution is a must for 2016!

3.) Keep Feet Flat and Forward

Don't extend your legs and cross your feet out in front of your while working. You'll also want to avoid using the base of your office chair as a foot rest. These bad habits have got to stop! Commit to operating with your feet facing forward and flat on the ground in 2016. You'll feel more stable and you won't be limiting blood flow. You'll also be effectively fighting back against common aches and pains caused from improper sitting posture.

4.) Avoid Extended Sits

Did you know that sitting for long periods of time can actually shorten your life span? Extended sits are no joke! Be sure to take a short break every hour in 2016. Get up from your desk, allow your eyes to adjust, and take a short walk. Stretch out those muscles and return to your workstation in comfort.

5.) Utilize Ergonomic Tools

The right combination of ergonomic tools will make you more efficient and effective in 2016. A CPU holder will provide you with additional knee space. It will get your computer's power source up and off the ground so that you don't have to hunch over to turn it on and plug in devices. An articulating keyboard tray will help you compute at correct angles and avoid office epidemics like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. A sit to stand ergonomic desk will help promote continuous movement in the workplace while simultaneously improving blood flow. The utilization of ergonomic tools will require a financial investment. That being said, you'll recapture those funds through improved comfort, health, and productivity over the long term.

6.) Master The Office Chair

Even the most expensive office chair is only as good as it's owner. You have to take the time to master your chair and it's features in 2016. Today's office chairs come equipped with adjustment features aplenty. If you don't take the time to understand their benefits and put them to use, you'll be lacking in terms of comfort. Watch ergonomic chair demo videos online, read product reviews, and don't be afraid to push your chair to the limits. Don't take a "set it and forget it approach" with your chair. Master the functions and controls so that you're ready to properly adjust at a moments notice to meet the specific demands of any particular task.

7.) Spread The Word

Make it a point to spread the word about the benefits of ergonomics in 2016. Share tips and tricks that have worked for you to help out your fellow coworkers. If you hear your work family discussing areas of discomfort, don't be afraid to speak up with a solution. It's our duty to share and help others achieve a comfortable work day.