Ergonomic Gear and Equipment

By Chris Adams, About.com Guide to Ergonomics

A lot of products tout their "ergonomic" design, but what does that really mean? There are no regulations that govern the use of the term "ergonomics" in product marketing. It could be ergonomic just because the handle is curved, the base is padded or the marketing person is persistent. Here, we break down not only what is ergonomic, but why, and will it be ergonomic for you.

1. Electronic Gadgets
2. Computer Gear
3. Office Supplies

4. School Supplies
5. Kitchen Gadgets
6. Lawn & Garden Tools

Electronic Gadgets

Electronic gadgets are always looking to improve usability, enhance their form factor, and generally make life more ergonomic. However, new technology often falls into the trap of trying a new feature just because it is now capable of doing so -- not because it can do so very efficiently. Let us be on our ergonomic gaurd while still embracing the inner tech geek in us all.

• iPhone Ergonomic Review
• Discovery 665 Bluetooth Headset Ergonomic Review
• Harmony 880 Universal Remote Control Ergonomic Review

Computer Gear

We spend so much time at computers nowdays that we really need to watch our ergonomics while using them. Look around. If you're sitting at a computer reading this, I'm talking to you. [p]We use computers for work and for play. Let's make sure we use them correctly so we don't waste too much time or develop a repetitive stress injury along the way.

• Before You Buy a Keyboard Tray
• Stretch Break Repetitive Stress Injury Prevention Software Review

Office Supplies

The office is a dangerous place. Repetitive tasks and stationary activities are no good on a body -- or mind, for that matter. But with the right ergonomic equipment, you might find that the office can be a fun and cool place to be. That might be a stretch, but it can be a lot more comfortable while you slave away in cubeland.

• Aeron Office Chair Ergonomic Review
• Refillable Ergonomic Ink Pens
• Disposable Ergonomic Ink Pens
• The Great Ergonomic Eraser Round-up

School Supplies

Children live in an adult-sized world. Their bodies have to constantly battle to adjust, not to mention all the stress that growing puts on them. Good ergonomic gear is one way to give them a helping hand in that endless struggle to fit in -- physically, that is.

• The Best Book Bag for Your Child
• The Great Ergonomic Eraser Round-up
• Westcott 12-inch Flexible Ribbed Ruler Ergonomic Review
• Penagain Twist N Write Pencil Ergonomic Review

Kitchen Gadgets

Next to the office, and maybe the couch, the kitchen is where you do most of your work throughout the day. Having some niffty ergonomic gear can sure make things a lot easier.

• Ergonomic KitchenAid Mixer Attachments
• Egg-Perfect Egg Timer Ergonomic Review
• Incredible Ice Cream Scoop Ergonomic Review
• Handi-Vac Vacuum Sealer Ergonomic Product Review

• Cascade 2in1 Action Pacs Ergonomic Review
• Eggcurate Digital Kitchen Scale Ergonomic Review
• Ergonomic Review of the Oreo Dunker Sandwich Cookie

Lawn & Garden Tools

I have always wondered if a green thumb was an ergonomic tool or a repetitive stress injury. But that is a debate for another day. The truth of the matter is that good tools make all the difference. And a good ergonomic tool can make your horticultural hobby or landscaping livelihood so much easier to accomplish.

• Radius Garden Trowel Ergonomic Review
• Radius Garden Bulb Trowel Ergonomic Review
• Radius Garden Cultivator Ergonomic Review
• Radius Garden Weeder Ergonomic Review