Creating a Comfortable and Ergonomic Driving Environment
At Mike White Ford, cars are our business, so we spend a lot of time paying attention to them. But not everyone is as car-obsessed as we are. For most people, even those who love cars, they are mostly just machines they count on to do a job. That’s because driving is a normal part of most people’s daily routines, whether commuting to work, taking kids to school, enjoying a road trip, or simply running errands.
But without you being conscious of it, driving can consume a significant portion of your day. Spending a lot of time behind the wheel can take a toll on your body and overall comfort if you don’t pay enough attention to your driving environment. However, a few adjustments and mindful practices can make your driving experience more ergonomic and enjoyable. Here are some ways to make driving your car a comfortable and relaxed experience, particularly for those who spend extended periods on the road.
Optimal Seat Adjustments
The first step towards achieving a comfortable driving experience is ensuring your seat is correctly adjusted. This is especially important if you share your vehicle with other drivers who all change seat controls to suit themselves. But even if you don’t share a car, are you sure yours is correctly adjusted for you? Consider the following:
- Seat Height: Adjust the seat height so that you have a clear view of the road, and so your feet rest comfortably on the pedals.
- Seat Distance: Position the seat at an appropriate distance from the pedals, ensuring your knees are slightly bent when fully pressing the pedals, without having to stretch your leg or foot.
- Lumbar Support: Adjust the lumbar support to maintain the natural curve of your lower back, preventing discomfort and fatigue.
- Seat Tilt: Tilt the seat slightly backward to reduce strain on your lower back and promote better posture.
- Headrest Position: Align the headrest with the back of your head to support your neck; this can prevent whiplash-type injuries if you have to brake hard or get in an accident.
- Pay attention to your shoes! Women, especially, may be wearing high heels one day and flats the next. If this sounds like you, ensure your seat adjustments are suitable each time. If necessary, use a pair of shoes just for driving; this also saves wear and tear on your nicer shoes.
Steering Wheel and Controls
Properly adjusting the steering wheel and other controls can significantly enhance your driving comfort:
- Steering Wheel Position: Adjust the steering wheel height and reach to a position that allows you to maintain a relaxed and comfortable grip with elbows slightly bent and with a clear view of the road and your instrument panel.
- Mirrors: Properly set the rear-view and side mirrors to eliminate blind spots. You should not have to lean over, crane your neck, or change your seat position to see your blind spots clearly; the goal is to be able to see them with a glance in the mirror.
- Armrest: Utilize the armrest (if available) on long drives to support your arms and shoulders.
Ergonomic Accessories
If you are someone who has to drive a lot, consider incorporating the following accessories to enhance your driving comfort further:
- Seat Cushions: Use orthopedic seat cushions or backrests to provide extra support and relieve pressure points during long drives.
- Neck Pillows: Support your neck and reduce stiffness with neck pillows specifically designed for car seats.
- Steering Wheel Covers: Install a comfortable and ergonomic steering wheel cover that offers a better grip and reduces hand fatigue.
- Seat Belt Pads: Attach soft seat belt pads to alleviate pressure and friction on your shoulders and chest.
Movement and Exercises
To prevent stiffness and discomfort during long drives, incorporate the following movements and exercises:
- Stretch Breaks: Take short breaks every couple of hours to stretch your legs, arms, and neck. Simple exercises like shoulder rolls, wrist rotations, and neck tilts can help release tension.
- Even when you set your seat position correctly, you may need to make postural adjustments during a long drive. Make minor adjustments that reduce stiffness and help you maintain good posture: sit upright with your shoulders relaxed, your back against the seat, and your chin parallel to the ground.
- Hand and Finger Exercises: Perform gentle exercises, such as finger taps and wrist rotations, to keep your hands and fingers nimble and prevent cramping or stiffness from staying in the same position.
Mindful Practices
To promote a relaxed and focused driving experience, consider the following practices:
- Proper Breathing: Practice deep breathing techniques to calm your mind and reduce stress levels while driving.
- Ambient Environment: Create a soothing ambiance within the car. You can do this by playing relaxing music or listening to podcasts or audiobooks.
- Hydration and Snacks: Stay hydrated by keeping a water bottle within reach, and have healthy snacks available to maintain your energy levels.
- Pay attention to your mood: if something is bothering you, you need to make sure it is not distracting you from your primary task: driving safely. Divert your mind to something more positive so that your drive is pleasant.
Driving is necessary in almost everyone’s life, and we spend a lot of time in our cars. As you do with your home and workplace, take concrete steps to make your driving environment more inviting and comfortable. This is easy and inexpensive to do, but only if you give it some attention. By implementing the suggestions outlined above, you can transform your driving experience into a more enjoyable one. Prioritizing your comfort and well-being during long hours on the road will preserve your physical health and contribute to increased alertness, overall driving safety, and a happier you!
Ford is at the forefront of technology when it comes to innovations that make the driving experience more enjoyable, from the electronic seat and steering controls to voice-activated infotainment systems to cup holders to smart climate control. To learn more about the comfort features of our new Ford vehicles or to test drive a new Ford at our Coeur d’Alene or Sandpoint showrooms, contact Mike White Ford today!