As gaming continues to grow in popularity, it’s not just high scores and epic wins on the line – our health is too.
Gaming has become the most profitable media market in recent years, surpassing the combined revenues of movies and music, leading gamers to spend more time than ever in front of screens. However, there’s a growing concern about the potential health risks associated with prolonged gaming.
According to Mobile Premier League (MPL), a major gaming platform, a proper gaming setup has never been more critical to avoid issues like back pain, eye strain, and repetitive strain injuries.
Tips to Balance Health and Gaming
Gaming experts from MPL share their expertise on gaming-related health risks and preventive measures, underlining, “A well-configured gaming setup is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity for a healthy gaming experience. It’s like building a house – the structure needs to be sound before you start decorating.”
Take control of your gaming health by incorporating the following suggestions.
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Desk and Chair
Invest in a sturdy desk and an ergonomic chair with lumbar support to maintain a neutral spine position. Along with a comfortable spine in a neutral pose, your feet should rest flat on the ground, with your knees at a 90-degree angle to reduce lower back strain.
Your chair should be height adjustable to ensure comfort. Position your monitor at eye level to avoid neck strain, as a reported 41% of gamers experience neck pain.
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Keyboard and Mouse
Around 36% of gamers complain of wrist pain. To counter this, MPL experts advise choosing a mouse and keyboard that fit comfortably in your hands and promote a natural wrist position. Keep them within easy reach to prevent awkward seating positions
“Don’t forget to use a wrist rest to alleviate further pressure on your wrists,” MPL reminds us. Also, ensure your gaming peripherals are ergonomically designed to avoid repetitive strain injuries.
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Breaks
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a game and forget to take regular breaks. However, remember that your health is at stake. Be responsible and mindful of your health by taking regular breaks.
MPL emphasises, “It’s important to take a 5-10 minute break every hour to stretch and move around. This not only prevents stiffness and muscle fatigue but also improves circulation.”
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Eye Strain
Eye fatigue is one of gamers’ most commonly reported problems, with 52% suffering from it.
To minimise strain, position your monitor at eye level and about an arm’s length away. MPL suggests following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.
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Headsets
Headphones can enhance your gaming experience while protecting your ears. Opt for noise-cancelling headphones to minimise distractions and adjust the volume to a comfortable level.
An MPL expert says, “Gaming headsets are also gatekeepers, in a sense. They not only keep the sound of the room out of your ears but also keep the sounds of your game out of the room.”
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Lighting
Break the gamer-in-a-dark-room stereotype. Proper lighting is crucial. Avoid harsh overhead lights and opt for softer, adjustable lighting to reduce eye fatigue.
MPL advocates that a balanced gaming lifestyle involves not just mastering the game but also your physical comfort. By prioritising ergonomics and taking regular breaks, you can enjoy your passion for gaming without compromising your health.
Note: This article is not written by a medical specialist and should not be considered as doctor-approved treatment. Consult a medical specialist if you suffer from gaming-related health problems.