Step 1: Fix your computer setup
Most of us unconsciously lean forward throughout the day while we work on our computers. This can be especially troublesome with laptops, because you’re often leaning forward and looking down, which puts strain on your neck. Fix your workstation setup, and you’ll improve your posture. Here’s how: start by making sure your computer screen is at eye level. This means the top of your monitor should be at or just below your line of vision. Your screen should be about an arm’s length away. Your keyboard and mouse should be in a position that allows you to keep your wrists straight. And if you spend a lot of time on the phone, ask your boss for a headset so you don’t have to strain your muscles cradling the phone between your ear and neck all day.
Step 2: Fix your office chair setup
Once your computer is in place, it’s time to evaluate your chair setup. The back of your chair should be positioned upright and should naturally fit the curve of your lower back. Make sure the chair is at a height that allows you to plant both feet on the floor. If your chair is too high for you to do this, get a footrest. If you have trouble with slouching, try positioning a back support or small pillow or towel behind your lower back.
Step 3: Stretch every day at work
One of the best ways to improve your work posture is to take 5-minute stretch breaks every 2-3 hours. At a minimum, stretch your back, shoulders, neck, and hips first thing in the morning and during your lunch break each day. Here’s an easy stretching routine you can do at work several times each day:
Step 4: Take preventative measures at home
Improving your work posture starts at home. Strength training and stretching exercises help immensely, as do cardiovascular exercises like walking, swimming, and bicycling. Focus on multi-joint exercises that promote abdominal and core stability and strength, like planks, squats, lunges, crunches, and wall sits. Try this 7-minute workout several days a week to start building up your core, and watch your work posture begin to steadily improve!
