Tips for ergonomic working in the home office

If you're anything like the average person, you probably spend most of your day sitting at a desk in an office chair. And if you're like most people, your desk and chair probably aren't set up very ergonomically: According to a Harvard Business Review study, only about 20% of office workers have access to ergonomic furniture.

Even if you work from home, it's important to follow ergonomic guidelines. Not only so you can be more productive and efficient, but also to avoid pain in your neck, back and arms.

The good news is that a few simple changes are all you need to make to your workspace, even in a home office, to reduce the strain on your body and increase your comfort.

Tip: With a tool like Gustav, you can turn any place in your home into an ergonomic workspace in no time.

Why is it important to work ergonomically in the home office?

If you're one of the millions of people working from home today, you may think you can just sit at the kitchen table or set up on the couch. As long as you have a laptop and a good Wi-Fi connection, it doesn't matter where you work, right?

Not quite. In fact, setting up an ergonomic home office is more important than ever: working in an ergonomic environment allows your body to maintain its natural alignment. This means less strain on your muscles, joints and ligaments, which can help prevent conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and other repetitive strain injuries. In addition, good posture improves breathing and circulation, which can lead to higher energy levels and overall better health.

Important: Healthy posture in the home office

Healthy posture is important for overall well-being, but can be particularly challenging when working from home. Squatting in front of the computer all day can lead to neck and back pain, headaches and fatigue.

Tip: Gustav can also be optimally used as a laptop stand in the home office, bringing your screen to eye level. This not only prevents posture problems, but also allows you to sit more relaxed - and work productively anywhere in your home. It is best to position your workstation with Gustav at a right angle to a window. This way you benefit from natural light without sunlight blinding your screen.

The best ergonomic products for a healthier home office

From chairs to keyboards, there are a variety of options to suit every budget and need. If you want to make your home office more comfortable and ergonomic, these five products are a good place to start:

Ergonomic chair

This is one of the most important investments you can make for your home office. A good ergonomic chair will support your back and help keep your spine upright. It should also be adjustable so you can find the perfect height and angle for your needs.

Standing desk converter

If you don't have the budget for a full standing desk, a converter is a good compromise. You can use it with your existing desk to create a higher work surface that allows you to work while standing. Just make sure you adjust it frequently so you don't stand in one position for too long.

Gustav

Gustav Original is the first portable office toolbox that doubles as a laptop stand. Lightweight, stylish and with space for all your work essentials, Gustav lets you set up your workspace in seconds. Gustav is designed for all people in agile offices, hot-deskers, activity-based working and for working in the home office.

Ergonomic keyboard and mouse

An ergonomic keyboard and mouse can help reduce wrist pain and fatigue. Look for a split keyboard with an adjustable palm rest and a mouse with an adjustable grip and cursor speed control.

Footrest

If your feet do not reach the floor when you sit in your chair, elevate them with a footrest. This will relieve the strain on your legs and back. Choose a material that is comfortable for your feet, easy to clean and blends in well with the rest of the furniture.

Ergonomics at the workplace - it's that easy!

An ergonomic workstation in your home office helps you avoid pain and injury. Ergonomic furniture helps you maintain good posture and alignment while working and can help prevent ailments such as carpal tunnel syndrome, neck and back pain.

An ergonomic home office doesn't have to be expensive: in fact, there are some simple things you can do to set up an ergonomic workstation in your own home.

Whether you are working from home temporarily or permanently, it is important to set up an ergonomic workstation that suits your needs. Working with Gustav can prevent pain and injuries related to poor posture and repetitive strain - and ensures that your home office is ready for use anywhere in the house in seconds.