Sitting for Success: A Randomized Controlled Study on the Impact of Chair Design on Muscle Stiffness and Performance in Video Gamers

This study evaluated the effects of an Aeron office chair and a commercial gaming chair (GC) on muscle stiffness (MS), performance, and player perceptions during a 2-hr gaming session among esports gamers. Conducted as a mixed-methods, randomized, controlled trial in a collegiate esports arena, the study involved 33 esports gamers (age: 23 ± 4.9) who met the inclusion criteria of being 18 years or older, and regular players of League of Legends and without any current musculoskeletal injuries. Participants played in two separate 2-hr sessions, with MS measured via oscillation frequency. The study recorded subjective evaluations, in-game statistics, and player perceptions. Results indicated a significant reduction in MS in the upper trapezius on the left side in the GC group compared with the Aeron chair ( p = .03). However, no significant differences were observed in the right-side measurements across four muscles. Notably, the GC was associated with lower MS in the thoracic and lumbar regions and was preferred by 58% of the participants. Performance improved in the GC, with players winning 25% more games and achieving 15% more kills. The findings suggest that the GC may offer superior benefits regarding reduced MS and enhanced gaming performance.