Ergonomic work chairs for larger individuals

How do we define large?

When choosing a work chair for larger people, we would typically define this as someone who weighs 120 kgs+ or has body mass index greater than 30. Body shape is also an important consideration with respect to accumulation of soft tissue and how it might affect the users center of balance and displacement within a conventional chair design. Other important factors to consider are ergonomics and durability in order to ensure provide proper support and comfort during long periods of sitting.

Body Types that affect sitting position

Ectomorph

Naturally lean and tends to be thin and struggles to gain weight as either body fat or muscle and has a low body mass index.

Mesomorphic

Middle of the road body shapewith broad shoulders and hips and tends to have moderate body mass index.

Endomorphic

Body type that tends to gain weight and may have a large bone structure.

How do people “carry” their weight when sitting down?

When a person is standing upright and balanced, their weight is supported by the spine and feet. Any excess body tissue places strain on the connective tissues, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Gravity may have a tendency to cause the body to assume an abnormal stature and sitting may be the more comfortable alternative. When sitting, our body mass is supported by the buttocks, however a “standard” ergonomic chair cannot consider size and displacement of soft tissue on the sitting surface. In most cases adipose tissue or fat displaces quite readily due to its composition, and the boney underlying structure is only slightly affected.

The most important considerations when selecting a work chair for a larger person are: the dimension of the sitting surface, the balance of the chair and the tension and resistance of the gas cylinder increased presence of soft tissue requires a larger support surface in order to avoid any potential “pinch” points.

Sitting weight distribution for large people in normal and non-normal positions.

It can be difficult to find a work chair that provides adequate support for body shape and size. As such, it is important to consider all aspects of sitting weight distribution when selecting a work chair.

In a normal seated position, weight should be distributed evenly on the seat pan and backrest with support to promote good positioning of the lumbar region. However, in some cases an accumulation of soft tissue on the buttocks causes the skeletal structure of to shift forward, requiring special consideration for pelvic and spine support to help reduce pressure points and ensure good posture. It is also important to ensure adequate seat depth to reduce leg pressure, as this can cause discomfort and pain over time. Furthermore, adjustable armrests are beneficial as they allow users to tailor their seating position to fit their needs.

By considering sitting weight distribution requirements when selecting a work chair for larger people, greater comfort and improved posture can be achieved – leading to improved focus and productivity levels throughout the workday.

What should you look for in a work chair for larger people?

Here are some of the key drivers:

1. Weight Capacity: Weight capacity is extremely important for larger users, they will require safe support for their weight. Look for chairs that can comfortably support weight of more than 120 kg. Manufacturers will generally post recommended weight capacity and certification for chairs on the website as a guide to ensure safety and durability. The guidelines generally will identify a test cycle that considers a weight of 120 kg. The limiting factor is usually the weight capacity of the gas spring. When looking for a work chair, make sure you choose manufacturers that refer to these BIFMA guidelines or, better still, have the appropriate official test certificates for a load capacity of 120 kilograms or 150 kilograms.

2. Ergonomics: Ergonomic chairs should deliver additional comfort, pelvic and spinal support, which can be particularly beneficial for those who spend extended hours sitting and working. If you are especially large, ensure that the manufacturer has a product specific to your requirements and/or that has adjustability that will accommodate your needs

3. Breathability: Breathable upholstery materials such as mesh or leather are ideal as they help keep users cool throughout long hours of use, allowing air to circulate and reducing sweat buildup on the seat. Additionally, breathable material also allows more air circulation through the seat cushion resulting in more comfortable sitting temperature during use.

4. Strength & Durability: When looking for a heavy duty work chair be sure to check that it has been built with strength and durability in mind; this means checking materials such as metal frames as well as reinforced parts like armrests and baseplates etc., Such checks will help avoid accidents and damage.

5. Mobility & Adjustability: It’s vital to consider the adjustability of your chair; look out for features such as 360-degree swivel, height adjustability of the seat, reclining angles and tension adjustment etc., so users can find an optimal position depending on height or preference while working at their desk.

Where to find a work chair for larger people??

Finding a reliable, comfortable work chair for larger people can be a challenge. CoreChair by Viasit is one solution to this issue as the center of balance and seat depth can be adjusted to optimize the potential user size and weight distribution. The warranty weight capacity is 120 kg which is limited by the warranty of the gas cylinder, but the remaining components of the chair are engineered to withstand much higher loads and accelerated forces. The most important consideration when purchasing a CoreChair is being able to find the balance point and CoreChair has an array of videos to assist, and their highly trained customer service will assist with any additional adjustments if needed.

Which Viasit chairs are suitable for larger people?

Viasit offers in addition to CoreChair a wide range of models that are certified for a user weight of 150 kg. (Drumback, F1, Toleo, Toleo Pro, Scope, Impulse).

All of these models meet the specifications of independent testing institutes thanks to particularly stable gas springs and an incredibly robust construction. Armrests and seat cushions can be easily adapted to the needs of larger individuals. For example, armrests with a particularly wide support surface and many adjustment options can be selected, various headrest options are available, and the seat cushions can be tilted as well as adjusted in depth.

Additional comfort is provided by the "UltraSpring" seat, which is available as an optional extra for many ergonomic chair models. The UltraSpring seat has a pocket spring core, similar to that found in box spring beds.

Why should an active sitting chair be a consideration for larger people?

Active sitting on Core Chair is a good consideration as its designed to encourage healthy movement for joint mobility, circulation, and metabolic stimulation. Traditional work chairs tend to strive to support and accommodate but serve no more health benefit. An active sitting solution will work to assist in your potentially compromised health issues arising from static working.

What happens if you are too large for a work chair?

If you are over the limit for a work chair, it is important to find a solution that can support your weight. Most office chairs are designed to hold up to 120 kg, but models are available for larger people. Look for chairs with reinforced steel components, extra heavy-duty casters, and gas lifts rated for higher weight capacity. In addition, consider an ergonomic chair with adjustable tilt tension and support to make sure it fits you properly so that you stay comfortable even after long hours of use.

What is the best to finding your work chair?

Contract manufacturers such as Viasit and suppliers with good reputations and warranty and ask what their most appropriate solution will be for your size and body type. A reputable company will not try to sell you something that will reflect poorly on their reputation in the future, and they will ensure that you have the right product.

First you have to decide whether you want a traditional work chair that provides good support and allows dynamic sitting, or whether you want CoreChair that goes a step further and explicitly supports active sitting.