On March 21, NIU Esports welcomed Dr. Jaejin Hwang, Associate Professor of Industrial and Systems Engineering, to introduce the coaches and players to ergonomics. This workshop was the first step in a partnership intended to foster a healthy playing environment that will help the esports athletes perform at their best. In the coming months and years, Dr. Hwang and NIU Esports plan to refine the design of the esports playing stations using ergonomic principles, as well as collaborate on research that will advance understandings of ergonomics in video gaming.
What is ergonomics? Ergonomics is the science of providing a comfortable and productive working environment. The body can be stressed by awkward posture and repetitive movements, which can cause fatigue, discomfort and even pain. Ergonomics aims to make the environment fit the worker (or, in this case, the player) so it is safer and more efficient.
The first thing we think of when we hear the word “ergonomics” is usually physical comfort (such as aligning an office chair properly to promote good posture and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome). But did you know that ergonomics also takes into account the cognitive and organizational elements of the work environment to promote mental health, good decision making and teamwork?
Why does this matter to esports athletes? Playing esports can be physically and mentally demanding! It requires split-second decisions, hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. During a match, players often carry out more than 400 fine motor movements per minute with the shoulder, elbow and wrist! A well-organized workspace can prevent hand strain from repetitive motions, minimize eye strain from extended time looking at screens, and improve performance.
