Q&A for How to Sit

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  • Question
    How should I sit at a computer?
    Laura Flinn
    NASM Certified Personal Trainer
    Laura Flinn is a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer, USA Olympic Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach and Certified Fitness Nutritionist, with an additional qualification as a TRX Suspension Trainer. Laura runs her own personal training program based in the San Francisco Bay Area and specializes in topics such as weight loss, muscle growth, cardiovascular training, and strength training.
    NASM Certified Personal Trainer
    Expert Answer
    Make sure you keep your back straight and your feet firmly planted on the floor.
  • Question
    What is the best way to sit in a computer chair?
    Laura Flinn
    NASM Certified Personal Trainer
    Laura Flinn is a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer, USA Olympic Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach and Certified Fitness Nutritionist, with an additional qualification as a TRX Suspension Trainer. Laura runs her own personal training program based in the San Francisco Bay Area and specializes in topics such as weight loss, muscle growth, cardiovascular training, and strength training.
    NASM Certified Personal Trainer
    Expert Answer
    Make sure your eyes are level with the middle of the screen so you don't have to strain your neck.
  • Question
    How can I sit comfortably if I have chronic back pain?
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
    Registered Nurse
    Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013.
    Registered Nurse
    Expert Answer
    Sitting can definitely aggravate that existing back pain. For work, it sounds like a standing desk that can also decrease in height for short periods of sitting is a good option. At home (and in the office) you can try alternating from standing, sitting, stooping, squaring, and kneeling. You may also need to try a foot rest! Also, if you haven't seen a doctor about the chronic pain, that is a good place to start. They can provide you with a physical therapist that can give you some good pointers and stretches to help.
  • Question
    Sitting properly makes my back hurt. I am only ten. How do I fix this?
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
    Registered Nurse
    Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013.
    Registered Nurse
    Expert Answer
    Trying a new posture and/or a new sitting routine can "work" muscles you normally do not work, which can cause those muscles to feel achy and tired. Practicing good posture can eventually become easier. However, at 10 years old, you should visit with your parents about your pain. You may need to see your pediatrician to determine what is causing the discomfort.
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