Workup Ergonomics

05/10/2023

Part 2 of the WSJ Series delving into the current state of economy class seating. As an ergonomist, I definitely have thoughts on how to optimize economy seat redesign. There are seemingly obvious ways to immediately improve seat features from enhanced adjustability, to more hygienic and comfortable materials. However, the reality is that designing anything related to aviation is subject to an incredible amount of engineering, technical & regulatory considerations including (but not limited to) weight, safety, seating capacity, durability and of course cost.

That said, there is no reason to resign ourselves to the current state of economy travel. There is room for improvement. Looking to adjacent forms of seating across different modes of transportation, design inspiration is everywhere.

Economy airplane seats push many passengers into positions that are uncomfortable and sometimes bad for their health. We spoke to an ergonomics expert about how to redesign airplane seats to support fliers better. Illustration: Michael Tabb

03/31/2023

Sleeping on an airplane is uncomfortable for most of us. In economy class, you'll likely be awkwardly seated for a prolonged period of time in a tight space with the inability to change positions. No one would debate that airplane seats are certainly an ergonomic design opportunity.
Having a few props on hand to support the body in different positions while promoting the neutral curvature of the spine can at least help you power nap without the stiff neck.

Airplane ticket prices are going up, yet economy seat sizes are shrinking. Here’s how you can find a more comfortable position for your in-flight snooze in coach.

01/31/2023

Committed to rest breaks but need help starting a routine? Check out our latest review of four excellent productivity apps designed to reduce postural fixity while helping you stay on top of your game.

A review of four productivity apps designed to promote rest & recovery

07/05/2021

01/22/2021

If you're missing the gym and your phone is shaming you for not taking 10k steps these days😒, take some solace in the fact that ANY movement is good for the body. Integrating movement into your routine doesn't necessarily have to mean a punishing 60 minute sweat session - it's just as beneficial to keep your body moving regularly throughout the day. Engaging your muscles during quick rest breaks, work interruptions, and simple everyday tasks can go a long way in maintaining circulation, flexibility and muscle tone.

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/01/21/959140732/just-move-scientist-author-debunks-myths-about-exercise-and-sleep?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=npr&utm_term=nprnews&fbclid=IwAR3v7KXIF40TD1n1KvbywAdA53IO62dHBi_SmqKXXWOSh4CA95NkpefFV2E

Paleoanthropologist Daniel Lieberman says the concept of "getting exercise" is relatively new. His new book, Exercised, examines why we run, lift and walk for a workout when our ancestors didn't.

07/02/2020

As tempting as it may be to discuss strategies for returning to the office, until there is a clear and safe roadmap to reopening schools, we're setting people up for failure.

Our struggle is not an emotional concern. We are not burned out. We are being crushed by an economy that has bafflingly declared working parents inessential.

05/05/2020

The ability to introduce movement at regular intervals throughout the day is one definite benefit of your current home office. This transitional time is a great opportunity to establish new rituals - specifically habitual movement throughout the workday.

focuses on posture, body awareness and habitual movement, teaching clients ‘portable’ skills to apply ergonomics in any context.

Read our latest ‘From Resimercial to Residential’ for more on strategic movement and the importance of rituals.
It’s all about being dynamic - moving, thinking, coping and doing.

'Navigating the New Normal' is a blog series featuring useful ergonomic strategies to adapt and stay sane in the current climate of disruption.

04/08/2020

Architect and designer Patricia Urquiola works on projects all over the world. Her studio has been working virtually with their clients for years—and often their meetings and project reviews are not held face-to-face, or even in the same time zone. Join us to discover how Patricia balances innovat...

01/22/2020

Read our latest post discussing ergonomics intervention as part of a systemic effort to enhance physical and mental well being in the clinical workplace.

Clinicians are digital nomads. They work in dynamic environments, often without a dedicated desk, and must constantly adapt to a range of stressful and unpredictable elements.

09/16/2019

Uncomfortable or exhausted after a few hours at work?❌
Do nagging symptoms seem to improve after a long weekend away from your desk?❌
You might be doing it wrong.

The *right* products can be used incorrectly if they’re not suited to your posture and workflow, or aren’t integrated correctly in your work environment.

Unfortunately, there a tons of confusing images of ergonomic products being used incorrectly, so it can be hard to know right from wrong when it comes to safe & proper use.
Through ergonomic education, modifications & recommendations ensures you’re supported by all aspects of the work environment.✅ If you can’t commit to a full on ergonomic assessment just yet, start by reviewing free resources like OSHA’s online workspace checklist.
📷Photo by Catherine Heath on Unsplash

05/29/2019

Our latest blog post all about caring for the caregiver while 'Onboarding a New Baby'

Bringing home a new baby can feel a lot like starting a new job (with a new boss!). Caring for a newborn requires substantial physical, emotional and cognitive work - yet the needs of the parent fall a distant second to ...