Chair Guide

How to Properly Sit in a Gaming Chair — Why Your Chair Feels Uncomfortable and How AndaSeat Fixes It

May 23, 2025
how to properly sit in a gaming chair

Gaming and computer chairs are essential for anyone who spends long hours at a desk - whether you're a gamer, streamer, or remote worker. But if you've just bought one, or are using a gaming chair for the first time, you might be wondering why it doesn't feel as comfortable as you expected. That's actually a common experience. Questions like " How should I sit in a gaming chair?" or " Why does my back still hurt after using it?" come up more often than you'd think.

At AndaSeat , we've seen this all too often. Our chairs are designed to support you where it counts, but even the best chair won't help if it’s not set up correctly or used with poor posture.

So in this post, let's go over what "sitting properly" in a gaming chair actually means, why your chair might not feel as comfy as you hoped, and how a few small adjustments (plus the right chair) can change everything.

Why Proper Sitting Posture in a Gaming Chair is Crucial

A person's sitting position plays a key role in maintaining good posture and a healthy back and spine. Using a suitable chair, keeping your back straight, and resting your feet flat on the floor are basic tips everyone should follow.

Most people start out sitting upright, but over time posture tends to slip: forward head tilt, rounded shoulders, slouched spine, tight hips, and sometimes even dangling feet. These changes add up, and over the long term, muscles adapt to these poor positions, causing spinal misalignment. This can lead to:

- Back pain and muscle stiffness;
- Fatigue and lethargy;
- Poor circulation;
- Hormonal imbalances.

poor sitting posture

Good posture means the key parts of your body are properly aligned and supported by balanced muscle tension. It helps:

- Reduce strain on muscles, joints, and ligaments;
- Maintain better balance during movement and exercise;
- Lower the risk of muscle strain and overuse injuries;
- Improve overall spine health.

Given these challenges, choosing the right chair and using it correctly is essential. Gaming chairs are designed not just to look good, but to support your body during long sessions. However, the benefits only come when you sit properly and take advantage of the chair's adjustable features.

Common Reasons Why Your Gaming Chair Feels Uncomfortable

You've got your gaming chair, but somehow it's just not as comfortable as you expected. You're not alone.

"Every time I sit on my chair, after a while, my butt and back hurt. How do I make it more comfortable?" - Quora user

If this sounds familiar, the issue might be more than just "getting used to it." There are usually two main culprits: either the chair itself lacks essential ergonomic features, or it hasn't been set up correctly for your body.

Many entry-level gaming chairs only allow for basic adjustments like seat height. They often have fixed armrests, rigid backrests, and lack proper lumbar support. While they might feel fine at first, sitting in them for long hours can easily lead to poor posture, spinal misalignment, and chronic discomfort.

Another overlooked factor is chair fit. If your chair size doesn't match your body type - for example, choosing a Large when you really need an XL, even the best ergonomic design won't work as intended. Incorrect setup of seat height, depth, lumbar support, and armrest position can also make things worse.

Let's break down the most common reasons your gaming chair might feel uncomfortable - and more importantly, how to fix them.

1. Poor Lumbar Support

If your lower back starts to ache after sitting for a while, chances are your chair's lumbar support isn't doing its job. Many gaming chairs either have fixed lumbar support or none at all - and that's a problem.

Lumbar support is one of the most critical elements of an ergonomic chair. Without proper support for your lower spine, your posture begins to collapse. You start slouching, your hips tilt forward, and your upper back curves unnaturally. Over time, this can lead to pain, stiffness, and fatigue - not just in your back, but also in your neck and shoulders.

However, a lot of people don't even realize what's happening. You may not feel any immediate symptoms, but subtle changes in posture can creep in, such as:

- Your head and neck jutting forward;
- Your hips shifting ahead of your torso;
- Your butt sticking out, exaggerating the curve in your lower back.

All of these signs point to a lack of proper lumbar support, which can throw off your entire seated alignment.

Solution: Adjust the lumbar support so it fits snugly in the curve of your lower back. Even gentle pressure here helps keep your spine aligned and encourages an upright, comfortable posture.

2. Incorrect Seat Depth and Seat Height

If the seat depth is too deep, it can press against the back of your knees and restrict blood flow. If it's too shallow, it won't properly support your thighs, causing your hips to shift forward and your lower back to flatten. Over time, this leads to poor posture, discomfort, and even chronic pain.

Solution: Adjust the seat depth so there is a 2 - 3 finger gap between the front edge of the seat and the back of your knees. This ensures proper thigh support without cutting off circulation.

A seat that's too high leaves your feet dangling, increasing pressure on your thighs. A seat that's too low causes your knees to rise above your hips, which can tilt your pelvis backward and flatten your lumbar curve.

Solution: Set your chair height so your feet rest flat on the floor, knees slightly lower than your hips, and thighs parallel to the ground. This promotes healthy posture and comfort. Most users find a seat height between 16 and 21 inches works well.

Want to learn how to choose the right gaming chair size? Check out this guide: Choosing the Right AndaSeat Gaming Chair Size

3. Cushion Too Hard or Too Soft

If your seat cushion is too soft, your body may sink unevenly, causing your pelvis to tilt and your spine to misalign. This uneven support can strain your hips and reduce blood circulation, leading to numbness or discomfort during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, a cushion that's too firm puts excess pressure on your tailbone, increasing the risk of pain and fatigue.

Solution: Choose a gaming chair with high-density foam - firm for support, yet soft enough to ease the pressure. Cold-cured or molded foam works best for lasting comfort.

4. Armrests Not Adjusted Properly

Adjustable armrests are essential for ergonomic support. They help take the load off your shoulders and lower back by supporting your upper limbs during long sitting sessions.

However, if the armrests are set too high or too low, they can do more harm than good. Improper adjustment may lead to shoulder shrugging, pressure on your forearms, or leaning to one side. For example, if you're sitting too low relative to your desk, your shoulders might stay lifted all day - even if your arms feel supported - causing muscle fatigue and tension over time.

Solution: First, adjust your chair height so your elbows are level with your desk. Then fine-tune the armrests - height, width, and depth - so your forearms are parallel to the floor and elbows bent at 90°. Armrests should support you without lifting your shoulders or forcing you to hunch.

5. Backrest Angle Not Suited for Your Body

Staying in a fixed position for too long - whether too upright or overly reclined - can cause back pain and muscle fatigue. While an upright posture is useful for focus, it doesn't allow your spine to move naturally. On the other hand, excessive reclining offers little support and may lead to slouching.

A reclining backrest helps reduce spinal compression and encourages subtle movement throughout the day.

Solution: Adjust your backrest angle between 100° and 110° for the ideal balance of support and comfort. Use a free-floating or dynamic recline function to allow your backrest to move with your body.
Sit upright while working, lean back slightly while reading, and recline further when relaxing - this promotes healthy posture and reduces the risk of long-term strain.

6. Incorrect Monitor Position

If your monitor is too high, low, or close, it forces your neck into awkward positions - causing strain, stiffness, and even headaches over time.

Solution: Adjust your monitor so that the top third of the screen is at or slightly below eye level, and place it about an arm's length away.

Step-by-Step: How to Sit Properly in Your AndaSeat Gaming Chair

Follow these simple steps to fine-tune your AndaSeat gaming chair for optimal support and posture:

how to sit properly in your andaseat gaming chair

1. Adjust the Seat Height and Seat Depth

- Seat Height: Sit with your feet flat on the floor and knees at 90°. Pull the height lever while lifting your weight slightly off the chair until reaching the desired height.
- Seat Depth: Pull the depth lever (if available), slide the seat so there's a small gap between the seat edge and the back of your knees.

2. Adjust Backrest Angle and Height

- Backrest Angle: Recline to 100°-110° for balanced comfort. Lock it in place using the recline lever.
- Backrest Height (mesh models): Raise or lower the backrest to match your upper back.

3. Set Lumbar Support

To support your lower back properly, adjust the lumbar pillow to match the natural curve of your spine. For models with built-in lumbar support, use the knob to fine-tune the height and depth for optimal comfort.

4. Adjust Headrest

Slide or reposition the magnetic head pillow to cradle your neck comfortably.

5. Adjust the Armrests

Set armrests so your elbows bend at 90°, forearms parallel to the floor. AndaSeat models offer 2D - 6D armrests - adjust height, width, depth, angle, or fold up if needed.

6. Optimize Monitor & Desk Setup

Set armrests so your elbows bend at 90°, forearms parallel to the floor. AndaSeat models offer 2D - 6D armrests - adjust height, width, depth, angle, or fold up if needed.

- Monitor: Eye level should hit the top third of the screen, about an arm's length away.
- Keyboard/Mouse: Keep close, level with elbows.
- Optional: Use a footrest if your feet don't reach the ground.

How AndaSeat Gaming Chairs Solve These Problems

AndaSeat gaming chairs are engineered with ergonomics at the core to help users sit better, longer, and more comfortably. From posture support to adjustability, every feature is designed to solve the most common sitting problems gamers and professionals face.

1. Ergonomic Lumbar Support for Back Support

AndaSeat chairs offer a range of lumbar solutions tailored to different needs. The latest Kaiser 4 series introduces an innovative pop-out lumbar support for precise lower back alignment. Other models in the Kaiser series come with built-in adjustable lumbar systems, while the Novis series features a 5cm raised built-in lumbar. Select models also include adjustable lumbar pillows - all working to keep your spine neutral and prevent slouching.

2. Customizable Armrests for Upper Body Relief

Our chairs come with 2D, 4D, 5D, or even 6D adjustable armrests, allowing you to tweak the height, depth, angle, and direction to match your desk setup. This reduces shoulder strain and supports your arms throughout extended sessions.

3. Multi-Angle Recline & Tilt for Dynamic Sitting

AndaSeat supports dynamic postures with recline and tilt lock mechanisms that let you switch from upright work mode to laid-back relaxation. The 15° rocking mode helps relieve tension during breaks, encouraging healthy micro-movements.

4. High-Density Foam for Balanced Comfort

Each chair is built with one-piece high-density molded foam, ensuring balanced comfort and long-term shape retention. This prevents pressure points on your hips and tailbone, even during marathon gaming or work hours.

5. Premium Upholstery Options

AndaSeat offers a choice of smooth leather, cozy linen fabric, and breathable mesh to suit different climates and personal preferences - each delivering a soft touch and long-lasting durability.

6. Magnetic Head Pillow for Targeted Neck Support

A magnetic memory foam pillow allows for effortless adjustment to support your neck exactly where you need it, whether you're sitting upright or reclining.

7. Effortless Setup & User-Friendly Adjustments

AndaSeat chairs are designed with easy assembly and intuitive controls, so you can get seated and properly adjusted in minutes - no guesswork required.

Best Gaming Chairs for Proper Posture

  • Specs

    Upholstery Material DuraXtra Leatherette, EverSoft Linen Fabric
    Sizes L and XL
    Color(s) Elegant Black, Robin Egg Blue, Creamy Pink, Bentley Brown, Cloudy White, Blaze Orange, Classic Maroon, Ash Gray, Carbon Black
    Adjustability 4D armrests, 90°-155° backrest recline, Seat height
    Lumbar Support 4-way Built-in Adjustable Lumbar
    Head Pillow Magnetic Head Pillow
    Recommended Weight L: 120kg/ ＜260 lbs
    XL: 80kg-180kg (175lbs-395lbs)
    Recommended Height L: 150-190cm (4'11"-6'2")
    XL: 181-210cm (5'11"-6'11")
    Seat Height 17.52"-20.08"
    Assembly Required Yes

  • Specs

    Upholstery Material ArteDiPelle Leatherette, EverSoft Linen Fabric
    Sizes L and XL
    Color(s) Elegant Black, Zen Purple, Robin Egg Blue, Creamy Pink, Bentley Brown, Cloudy White, Blaze Orange, Classic Maroon, Ash Gray, Carbon Black
    Adjustability 5D armrests, 90°-135° backrest recline, Seat height
    Lumbar Support 4-way Built-in Adjustable Lumbar
    24°Pop-out Lumbar
    Head Pillow Magnetic Head Pillow
    Recommended Weight L: 120kg/ ＜260 lbs
    XL: 80kg-180kg (175lbs-395lbs)
    Recommended Height L: 150-190cm (4'11"-6'2")
    XL: 181-210cm (5'11"-6'11")
    Seat Height 18.11"-20.67"
    Assembly Required Yes

  • Specs

    Upholstery Material DuraXtra Leatherette, EverSoft Linen Fabric
    Sizes L and XL
    Color(s) Elegant Black, Robin Egg Blue, Creamy Pink, Bentley Brown, Cloudy White, Blaze Orange, Classic Maroon, Ash Gray, Carbon Black
    Adjustability 5D armrests, 90°-155° backrest recline, Seat height
    Lumbar Support 4-way Built-in Adjustable Lumbar
    Head Pillow Magnetic Head Pillow
    Recommended Weight L: 120kg/ ＜260 lbs
    XL: 80kg-180kg (175lbs-395lbs)
    Recommended Height L: 150-190cm (4'11"-6'2")
    XL: 181-210cm (5'11"-6'11")
    Seat Height 17.52"-20.08"
    Assembly Required Yes

  • Specs

    Upholstery Material Mesh Fabric
    Sizes L
    Color(s) Space Black, Celeste, Twilight
    Adjustability 5D armrests, 3D headrest, 105°~126° recline with 4-position tilt lock, Backrest height, Seat height and depth
    Lumbar Support C-shaped Dynamic Lumbar
    Head Pillow 3D Headrest
    Recommended Weight 40kg-120kg (88lbs-265lbs)
    Recommended Height 150-190cm (4'11"-6'2")
    Seat Height 17.72"-21.66"
    Assembly Required Yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are gaming chairs good for sitting all day?

Yes. Ergonomic gaming chairs like AndaSeat are built for extended sitting. With adjustable lumbar support, seat depth, recline, and high-density foam cushions, they promote proper posture and reduce fatigue throughout long gaming or work sessions.

Q2. Are gaming chairs supposed to lean back?

Absolutely. Reclining backrests help reduce spinal pressure and support natural movement. Ideal angles range from 100° to 110° for working and relaxing. AndaSeat chairs offer multi-angle recline and tilt lock for better comfort.

Q3. How can I make my gaming chair more comfortable?

Start by adjusting your seat height, depth, backrest angle, and lumbar support. Ensure your armrests are level with your desk and elbows at 90°. Adding a properly positioned headrest and optimizing your monitor setup also enhances overall comfort.

Q4. Are gaming chairs bad for your neck and back?

Only if used incorrectly. When adjusted properly, gaming chairs with built-in lumbar and head support can actually relieve neck tension and lower back pain. AndaSeat is committed to designing the best gaming chairs to support users suffering from lower back, hip, neck, and shoulder pain.

Q5. Do gaming chairs cause bad posture?

Poor posture usually results from incorrect adjustments, not the chair itself. A well-designed gaming chair supports your spine, hips, neck, and arms, if set up properly. AndaSeat chairs are built to help you sit right.