Study Findings on Chair Size and Health
A groundbreaking study conducted by the University of Leeds on behalf of HSL Chairs has revealed that using a chair sized appropriately for individual users can lead to significant health benefits. The research indicates a remarkable 10% reduction in blood pressure and a 6% decrease in heart rate, alongside a more than 2% increase in tissue oxygenation when seated in the right chair.
The study, led by Dr Andrea Utley from the School of Biomedical Sciences, involved 24 participants aged between 32 and 72. Each participant spent approximately 15 minutes in three different sizes of HSL’s Burrows Relax chair. Key measurements assessed included seat height, depth, width, and support for the neck, back, and hips.
Expert Insights on Chair Ergonomics
Dr Utley explains, “Sitting in a chair that fits well for an individual presents numerous advantages. Sitting involves physical effort, and an appropriately sized chair reduces that effort. Consequently, this results in various physiological benefits and less fatigue.”
The findings highlighted that when participants were seated in the correctly sized chairs, they exhibited lower blood pressure and heart rates, as well as improved oxygen saturation levels. Additionally, they made fewer postural adjustments, indicating greater comfort and stability.
HSL’s Commitment to Comfort
HSL Chairs, a family-run business renowned for its handcrafted “feel-good furniture” for over 55 years, is committed to ensuring that every customer finds the ideal chair. In collaboration with independent occupational therapist Julie Jennings, HSL has developed an Exclusive Chair Fitting service tailored to individual needs, ensuring proper support for the neck, back, and hips.
Jennings states, “I oversee the design and approval of all chairs to ensure they promote good posture. Recognising that there is no universal fit, we have launched a personalised service to help customers find the perfect chair, whether it be an armchair or recliner. HSL offers a variety of sizes and features to guarantee complete support for every part of the body.”
The Burrows Relax Chair: A Model of Support
The Burrows Relax chair, featured in Dr Utley’s research, is designed to maintain a neutral head position, alleviating neck strain and shoulder tension. Its back support offers both comfort and stability, aligning with the spine’s natural curvature to help prevent slouching. This chair’s design allows for the hips to fit snugly while ensuring that the knees are aligned with the hips, thus minimising pressure in the lumbar region.
Addressing Common Postural Issues
NHS data indicates that a significant number of older adults, especially those aged 65 and above, spend nine hours or more seated each day. Dr Utley concludes, “With numerous older people suffering from aches, pains, and poor posture, selecting the right style and size of chair is essential. This research indicates that not only is sitting more comfortable in the appropriate chair, but it also leads to improved health outcomes.”
Discover Your Perfect Fit with HSL Chairs
With over 50 showrooms across the UK, HSL’s team of Comfort Specialists is ready to assist customers in finding their perfect fit. The Home Visit service allows customers to try a selection of occupational therapist-approved chairs in their own homes.
Tested, trusted, and recommended, HSL Chairs is a Yorkshire-based family business that combines exceptional design, quality craftsmanship, and unparalleled comfort, rapidly establishing itself as the leading brand for recliners and riser recliners in the UK.