Back to blog
Article

How to Adjust an Office Chair

Admin October 09, 2026

If you want to move an office chair forward or backward, the operation method varies depending on the type of chair:

For most conventional ergonomic office chairs, especially those with gas cylinders, the key device for adjusting the position is the circular knob or lever at the connection between the chair legs and the seat (used to lock the gas cylinder). When operating, first stand to the side of the chair, reach out and touch the device, and press the knob. At this point, the gas cylinder is unlocked, and you can push the chair forward or backward along the floor. If the chair has a five-star base with wheels, pushing will be easier, but be careful to avoid surrounding objects to prevent collisions. After adjusting to a suitable sitting distance, release the knob, and the gas cylinder will automatically lock the new position.

For some old-fashioned office chairs with fixed legs (such as those without wheels or gas cylinders), adjusting the position is achieved through the fixing screws under the chair legs. Before operating, it is recommended to first check the instruction manual to confirm the structure to avoid accidental disassembly. The specific steps are as follows: Use a tool to loosen the fixing screws under the chair legs to separate the chair from the floor or base. After adjusting the position, tighten the screws again to ensure the chair is stable.

If 'pulling apart' refers to adjusting the backrest recline angle, the operation method is as follows:

  1. Basic recline adjustment: Sit on the chair and find the adjustment handle below or on the side of the seat (usually a lever-type design). After pulling the handle, lean back slightly with your back, and release the handle to fix the angle. If you need to return to the upright position, pull the handle again and apply a slight force with your back, and the backrest will automatically spring back.
  2. Backrest flat function: The backrest of some chairs can be completely flattened (such as for nap mode). The adjustment lever is usually located below the right armrest. Pulling the lever allows the backrest to tilt backward to a horizontal position.
  3. Forward and backward rocking amplitude adjustment: If the chair supports forward and backward rocking (such as a dynamic balance function), you can control the rocking amplitude by rotating the black cylindrical device in front of the gas cylinder (the damping adjuster). Rotating clockwise usually reduces the amplitude, and rotating counterclockwise increases it. After adjustment, test the stability.

Precautions:

  • When adjusting the position of the gas cylinder, avoid pushing quickly or violently to prevent damage to the gas cylinder or the chair from moving out of control.
  • When adjusting the backrest angle, ensure that the handle is fully reset to avoid accidental recline due to poor locking.
  • When adjusting the screws of an old-fashioned chair, use matching tools (such as a wrench) and confirm the tightness of the screws to prevent the chair from wobbling.