A recent study by the University of Leeds has revealed that sitting in the right-sized chair can lead to significant health benefits, including reduced blood pressure and improved oxygen levels. Conducted on behalf of HSL Chairs, the research highlights the importance of proper chair fit in maintaining good posture and overall well-being.
The study, led by Dr Andrea Utley from the University’s School of Biomedical Sciences, involved 24 participants aged between 32 and 72. Each individual spent approximately 15 minutes seated in three different sizes of HSL’s Burrows Relax chair. The researchers evaluated various factors, such as seat height, depth, width, and support for the neck, back, and hips.
Dr Utley explained, “Sitting in a chair that is appropriately sized for an individual offers multiple benefits. Sitting requires physical effort, and the right chair reduces that effort, resulting in physiological benefits and a reduction in fatigue. Our findings indicate that participants sitting in the correct-sized chair experienced a 10% decrease in blood pressure and a 6% reduction in heart rate, alongside over a 2% increase in tissue oxygenation.”
The study also noted that the proper chair size led to less fidgeting, which can contribute to maintaining good posture and minimising common aches and pains. Dr Utley added, “Across all measured factors, sitting in the right size chair yielded more efficient and health-enhancing results. Participants exhibited lower blood pressure and heart rate, improved oxygen saturation, and made fewer postural adjustments.”
HSL Chairs, a family-run business that has been crafting ‘feel good furniture’ for over 55 years, has partnered with independent occupational therapist Julie Jennings to establish its Exclusive Chair Fitting service. This service is designed to help customers find the correct size chair to ensure proper neck, back, and hip support.
“Every chair design I oversee prioritises posture,” said Jennings. “Recognising that there is no one-size-fits-all, we developed a personalised service that helps customers select the perfect fit, whether it’s an armchair or a recliner. HSL Chairs offers a variety of sizes and features, ensuring that every part of the body is adequately supported.”
The Burrows Relax chair, used in Dr Utley’s study, helps maintain a neutral head position, preventing tilting and reducing muscle strain in the neck and tension in the shoulders. The chair’s back support is designed to follow the natural curvature of the spine, promoting good posture and reducing pressure on the lumbar region.
According to NHS statistics, many older adults aged 65 and over spend nine hours or more each day sitting. Dr Utley remarked, “Given the prevalence of aches, pains, and poor posture among older people, finding the right style and size of chair is a valid approach. Our research demonstrates that sitting in the appropriate chair not only enhances comfort but also promotes improved health.”
With over 50 showrooms across the UK, HSL’s team of Comfort Specialists offers expert advice and assistance in finding the perfect chair. The company also provides a Home Visit service, where occupational therapist-approved chairs are brought to customers’ homes for trial.
HSL Chairs is a Yorkshire-based family business known for its quality craftsmanship and design, positioning itself as a leading brand for recliners and riser recliners in the UK. For more information, visit www.hslchairs.com.
