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An office chair is more than just a seat on wheels. The real magic is under the seat: the mechanism. It determines whether you sit comfortably and healthily all day long — or whether you end up with back pain. But how do you know which mechanism is right for you?
In this blog, you will discover:
- Why the chair mechanism is a game changer for your sitting comfort
- What the most popular mechanisms are and how they work
- How to make the right choice for your workplace and body
Why the mechanism of your office chair makes such a big difference
Your body is not designed to sit still. And yet we do it — for hours on end, every day. So it's no surprise that neck, shoulder, and back complaints are common. Even with perfect posture, you can still experience discomfort over time.
So what does help? Movement! And that's where your chair mechanism plays a crucial role. A good system ensures that your body keeps moving subtly, without you even noticing. This keeps you fresh, focused, and pain-free.
How to sit properly: the basics of ergonomic sitting
- Feet firmly on the floor or on a footrest
- Knees slightly lower than your hips
- Elbows at a 90° angle, resting on armrests
- Shoulders relaxed, head upright
- Screen at eye level, at arm's length
But even in this ‘golden posture’, sitting still for long periods of time is not a good idea. A chair that moves with your body is therefore not a luxury — it is essential.
The most popular office chair mechanisms explained
1. Synchronous mechanism
A synchronous mechanism provides the right support in every sitting position. The backrest moves backward, and the seat tilts slightly with it—but at a smaller angle (usually a 2:1 ratio). This keeps your pelvis well supported at all times, ensuring a healthy sitting posture. Your back and body remain in balance, even when you move. This type of mechanism encourages active and dynamic sitting, which is very important during long periods of desk work.
Why choose a chair with a synchro mechanism?
Super ergonomic
Perfect for those who sit at a desk for long periods of time
Promotes an active working posture
Two variants of the synchro mechanism:
- With weight adjustment: decide for yourself how much resistance you feel when leaning back.
- Autolift: the chair automatically adjusts to your body weight. Ideal if you share it with others or just want to sit comfortably quickly.
2. Tilt mechanism (rocking motion)
With a chair with a tilt mechanism – also known as a rocking chair – the backrest and seat move together as one unit. When you lean back, the entire chair tilts slightly. This creates a natural rocking sensation and encourages an active sitting posture.geheel.
Why choose a chair with a tilt mechanism?
Feels relaxed and natural
Keep moving all day long
Ideal for those who love extra freedom of movement
Extra:
- Lockable tilt mechanism: allows you to lock the chair at a certain angle. Ideal if you want to alternate between active work and relaxed sitting, or if you need to work at a fixed angle.
3. 3D movement mechanism
With a 3D movement mechanism, both the seat and backrest move in multiple directions at the same time with your micro-movements. This keeps you moving continuously without you even noticing. Your lower back, pelvis, and abdominal muscles remain active, which ensures better balance, a stronger core, and a healthier sitting posture.
This type of mechanism is found in chairs such as the Interstuhl Pure. The chair automatically adjusts to your movements and weight without you having to adjust anything. Ideal for hybrid workplaces where office chairs are shared.
Why choose a chair with a 3D movement mechanism?
Your body keeps moving subtly
Your core stays active
Perfect for shared or flexible workplaces
4. Balance mechanism
Mainly found on saddle stools, such as the Score Amazone Balance.
The seat gently balances with your posture.
Why choose a stool with a balance mechanism?
Great for creative professions or medical workplaces
Lots of freedom of movement
Perfect for those who want to sit actively on a compact, maneuverable work chair or saddle stool
5. Fixed mechanism & permanent contact
A “fixed mechanism” speaks for itself: you cannot move the chair; the back and seat are fixed. With a permanent contact mechanism, only the backrest moves slightly with your back; the seat remains fixed.
Why choose a chair with permanent contact or fixed mechanism?
Good for short periods of sitting or precise tasks
Often used in laboratories or meeting rooms
Which chair is right for you?
Do you work at your desk for hours every day? Then a chair with a synchronous mechanism or tilt mechanism is a smart investment. Are you more creative and always on the move? Then a saddle stool with a balance function might be a better fit.
Do you just want to sit comfortably without having to think about it? Then choose an auto-lift synchronous chair — no adjustment is necessary, it adapts automatically.
👉 Tip: Use the filters in our webshop to select the type of mechanism, armrests, and functions. This will give you a quick overview of all the models that suit your needs.
Prefer personal advice? Our team is here to help. Make an appointment at our showroom in Herk-de-Stad or contact us. We will be happy to help you find the right ergonomic chair for your workplace and body.
Finally: sitting well is an investment in yourself
You don't buy an office chair every day. So choose wisely. The right mechanism really makes a difference — for your comfort, your focus, and above all, your health.
Need help? Visit our showroom or contact us . We will be happy to help you find your ideal office chair..