With the help of proper ergonomics, work equipment, work environment and other systems are adapted to meet human features and needs. Ergonomic fluency and safety while studying create well-being by promoting the ability to study, i.e. the student’s ability to work. The term ‘study ergonomics’ can be used for the interaction between the student, study environment, and tools and study methods.
Less sitting – more breaks
One can reduce the physical and cognitive strain caused by studying quite easily. You can ease the physical load caused by sitting by taking breaks every 20 to 30 minutes. This can occur by stationary movement (when it is not possible to stand up) or by standing up.
The primary study environments of a student are the educational institution, library or home, where studying takes place mainly by sitting. According to studies, the student sits up to 9–10 hours a day. Sedentariness is a real challenge for our body physically, and may predispose us to various symptoms in the musculoskeletal system. In addition, long-term sedentariness has been identified as an independent health risk (e.g. for the development of various cardiovascular and metabolic diseases) even if you exercise according to the physical activity recommendations.
Fortunately, in recent years, there are more alternative ways of studying alongside sitting, as equipment for studying has become more diverse and learning methods have expanded. However, it is good to consider how to make studying as safe and smooth as possible.
Sensations of one’s own body about the feelings of discomfort or a loss of concentration, are usually signs to take a break or at least change the posture. It is important to react to the sensations in time. Social pressure to study by standing or taking breaks can be alleviated if teachers and the study group agree together on rules, i.e. that it is allowable to tell about the need for a break, study by standing, vary study postures or do pause exercises independently or guided by the teacher.
Source: Siekkinen, K. 2019. Opiskeluergonomia – sujuvampaa ja vaivattomampaa opiskelua.
In a book: Kunttu, K. ym. Opiskeluterveys. Duodecim.