Skip to main content
Home > Ergonomics > Ergonomic Equation

The Ergonomic Equation

How ergonomics adds up to working comfortably

Computing comfort starts with paying attention to your body’s experience. Just three basic elements define The Ergonomic Equation of Comfortable Computing: Neutral posture + voluntary motion + rest.

Work comfortably with a WorkFit Sit-Stand Desk

WorkFit™: work comfortably

Ergotron products foster a workplace culture of movement, offering our users improved comfort, flexibility and a healthier way to work. Learn how routinely switching between sitting and standing can help you enjoy all of the benefits of movement.

See all the options for Sit-Stand Desks.

1: Neutral posture

Neutral posture

Feels natural and comfortable.
Uses less energy.
Puts minimal stress on your body.

2: Voluntary motion

Voluntary motion

Less tiring than sitting in place.
Helps you feel alert and balanced.
Improves blood circulation.

3: Rest time

Rest time

Take quick, regular breaks.
Engage in light exercise/stretching.
Relax eyes, wrists and hands.

Ergonomics tips

You will help your eyes, arms, shoulders and neck feel better if you pay attention to your monitor and keyboard placement. These tips should help!

Monitor tips

  • Adjust the monitor height so that the top of the screen is at—or slightly below—eye level.
  • Your eyes should look slightly downward when viewing the middle of the screen.
  • Position the monitor at least 20 inches (51 cm) from your eyes—about an arm’s length distance. If your screen is larger, add more viewing distance.
  • Keep glare down by adjusting the screen position.
  • Maintain the distance between your screen-scanning eyes and your screen by tilting the monitor back 10° to 20°.
  • If you wear bifocals (we’ll never tell!), lower the monitor below eye level and turn your screen upward, tilting it back 30° to 45°.
Monitor tips graphic
Popular mounts that support proper ergonomic monitor positioning
LX Desk Monitor Arm

LX Desk Monitor Arm

Learn More
LX Desk Dual Direct Arm

LX Desk Dual Direct Arm

Learn More
Neo-Flex Monitor Stand

Neo-Flex® Monitor Stand

Learn More

Keyboard tips

  • Maintain a keyboard height that is even with the height of your elbows.
  • Tilt the keyboard back 10° so that your wrists stay flat.
  • The standard worksurface is often too high for proper ergonomic positioning. Try an adjustable keyboard tray that extends below the worksurface.
Keyboard tips graphic
Popular products that support proper ergonomic keyboard positioning
LX Keyboard Wall Arm

LX Keyboard Arm

Learn More
Neo-Flex Keyboard Wall Mount

Neo-Flex Keyboard Wall Mount

Learn More
Neo-Flex Underdesk Keybaord Arm

Neo-Flex Underdesk Keyboard Arm

Learn More

Sit-stand tips

  • Start slow. Gradually increase your daily standing time when you first start a sit-stand work routine.
  • The goal isn’t to stand all day. Try switching between sitting and standing every 30 minutes. Moving more is the key.
  • Comfortable shoes and an anti-fatigue mat can cushion impacts on joints to help avoid potential foot, knee or back soreness.

Learn More

WorkFit tips graphic
Popular products that support a sit-stand work style
WorkFit-TX Ergonomic Standing Desk Converter

WorkFit-TX Converter

Learn More
WorkFit-S Dual Sit-Stand Desk Converter

WorkFit-S Dual Converter

Learn More
WorkFit-Z Mini Standing Desk Converter

WorkFit-Z Mini Converter

Learn More

General tips

  • Use a comfortable, adjustable chair and make adjustments as you change postures.
  • Rest your eyes by occasionally focusing on an object 20-plus feet (6 m) away.
  • Stand and stretch your back and arms from time to time.
  • Give your neck a break by positioning your screen or work materials directly in front of you to avoid turning your head so much.
  • Even if your workstation set-up correctly, you still can get tired from staying in the same position for too long—so don’t forget to move every 30 minutes if possible.
General Ergonomic tips graphic
Ergonomic Equation graphic

Comfortable Computing

Together, these elements contribute to a holistic view of wellness that supports happy, healthy employees. That means less pain at the end of the day, fewer nagging injuries and razor-sharp focus to own every task. Ready to learn more?

Ergonomics in Action

Play the Game