FAQ – MOOVLAB

WHAT IS ACTIVE SEATING?

What exactly is Active Seating?

Active Seating is a new category of seating designed to keep your body in gentle, continuous motion while you work — rather than locking you into a fixed, static posture. Where traditional ergonomic chairs are built around support, stillness, and forcing the body to hold postures, Active Seating is built around movement and life. MOOVLAB pioneered this category with the MOOVLAB Chair, a chair engineered to make daily freedom of movement the default, not the exception.

Why is sitting so harmful?

Research increasingly shows that prolonged static sitting is one of the most damaging daily habits — often described as “sitting is the new smoking.” Humans spend roughly 70% of their waking day seated (8+ hours on average), yet our bodies were never designed for sustained stillness. The consequences include poor posture, reduced circulation, metabolic slowdown, increased back pain, and diminished cognitive focus. The answer isn’t necessarily to sit less — it’s to sit differently when you do.

How is Active Seating different from just standing or using a standing desk?

Standing is better than static sitting — but standing still carries its own risks: fatigue, varicose veins, blood circulation challenges, and lower back strain. The real goal is movement throughout the day, not a switch from one fixed position to another. MOOVLAB complements a standing desk perfectly, giving you an active, engaging alternative when you need to sit — so you’re never truly still, whether you’re up or down.

Is Active Seating the same as sitting on a balance ball?

No — and this is an important distinction. Exercise balls require constant muscular effort just to maintain balance in the neutral center upright position, leading to fatigue and eventually giving way to poor posture. They also present safety risks and are impractical for all-day use. The MOOVLAB Chair’s patented MOOVCOR™ mechanism delivers controlled, stable, fluid dual-axis movement that is intuitive and fatigue-free. You move naturally with the chair — not against it — all day long.

THE MOOVLAB CHAIR

What makes the MOOVLAB Chair different from other ergonomic chairs?

Every major ergonomic chair on the market is designed around forced support in a fixed position. They are incremental improvements to a 30-year-old concept. The MOOVLAB Chair is a fundamentally different approach: our patented MOOVCOR™ dual-axis mechanism keeps the body supported in comfort with continuous automatic access to gentle body motions, promoting improved posture, circulation, metabolic activity, and focus — simultaneously. It’s not a better static chair. It’s an entirely new kind of chair.

How does the MOOVCOR™ dual-axis mechanism work?

The MOOVCOR™ mechanism is the heart of the MOOVLAB Chair. A gravity-fed system beneath the seat projects the pivot axis above the seat plane — aligning with the body’s natural pivot points at the hips and spine. This creates what we call the “pendulum effect”: the seat moves side to side like a pendulum at the flex point where the spine meets the hips, and front to back via a second pivot axis. The result is fluid, intuitive motion that automatically follows your body as you move — without requiring conscious effort or causing fatigue. A unique feature is that your upper body’s centerline can be maintained while the lower body moves independently — so you’re never swaying on Zoom calls or during tasks that need upper body stability.

What are the health benefits of the MOOVLAB Chair?

The MOOVLAB Chair is validated by independent research from the University of Waterloo and a study led by Swiss spinal surgeon Prof. Jiří Dvořák. Documented benefits include:

Improved posture through continuous micro-movement
Increased circulation and reduced lower limb swelling
Enhanced metabolic activity — equivalent to approximately 3,000 steps per day while seated
Sharper mental focus and cognitive performance
Reduced back pain and spinal strain
Core muscle activation and relaxation without fatigue
Deep paraspinal muscle activation — the small stabilizing muscles between the vertebrae

What is active seating technology?

It is MOOVLAB’s approach to seating that encourages natural movement of the hips, shoulders, and body while maintaining stability and support.

Will the movement feel tiring or distracting?

Not at all — and this is one of the most common surprises our users report. The MOOVCOR™ mechanism is designed to feel natural and effortless, not like a workout. Most people quickly forget they are moving at all. The micro-movements are gentle and gravity-fed, meaning the chair automatically follows your body as you move rather than fighting it. Many users describe it as deeply relaxing — like the calming quality of a hammock — while remaining engaged and upright.

Does the MOOVLAB Chair have a full back?

Yes. Unlike some active seating solutions that eliminate the back support entirely, the MOOVLAB Chair features a patented ergonomic back panel design that supports the spine between the shoulder blades. This frees your upper body — your chest, shoulders, and arms — to open and move naturally, while the lower back remains supported throughout the day.

Does it come with armrests?

Armrests are available as an optional add-on at $199. The MOOVLAB Chair base model is $1,799. Armrests feature 2 inches of height adjustment and can be easily removed and reattached as needed. One note: our elbow rests are intentionally shorter than traditional armrests — approximately 4 inches in length. They are designed as a resting point for your elbows, not to support your forearms while typing. This keeps your upper body free and your posture active.

What are the specifications of the MOOVLAB Chair?

Key specs at a glance:

Weight: 29.5 lbs (without arms)
Chair width: 21.85” / 55.5 cm
Standard 5” pneumatic cylinder
5 reverse-locking casters
Premium mesh back panel
Auto-Lock System: chair locks automatically when you stand up
Base price: $1,799 | Optional armrests: $199 additional

What is the Auto-Lock System?

The weight-bearing Auto-Lock System automatically resets and locks the chair's seat side-to-side movement to the horizontal center position when you stand up and exit the chair. It also holds that lock as you sit back down, preventing any side-to-side movement during entry so you always land on a stable, centered seat. Once your full weight is settled, the Auto-Lock releases and the side-to-side movement becomes available. This prevents the seat from swaying when not occupied or during re-entry, enhancing safety and stability - and making every sit-down smooth and effortless. It is important to note that the Auto-Lock only engages the side-to-side axis. The back-and-forth movement remains unlocked unless you manually engage the front-to-back lever yourself. The MOOVLAB Chair gives you full control over how much movement you want at any moment. You can run the chair in a fully locked position - both axes locked - if you prefer a completely static seat. You can also partially unlock the chair to move only side to side, or only back and forth, depending on the task at hand or how your body is feeling that day. And of course, with both axes fully unlocked, you get the complete dual-axis MOOVCOR™ experience - the way the chair was designed to be used.

Can I completely lock out the motion?

Yes. When the front-to-back lever is engaged and the side-to-side lever is engaged, you can have a completely static chair if you wish. There are also multiple locking positions on the front-to-back motion — including a neutral horizontal lock and a 9° forward tilt lock position — giving you full control over how much movement you want at any moment.

What are the Reverse Locking Casters?

The MOOVLAB Chair features five reverse-locking casters that automatically engage at 50% resistance when you sit down. This helps the chair stay put while you’re seated and moving — preventing unwanted rolling — while still allowing you to reposition the chair with slight resistance when seated.

What fabric and material options are available?

The MOOVLAB Chair features a premium mesh back panel and an ergonomically designed seat combining textile, foam, and mesh materials for breathability and comfort. A premium option is also available: the Blazer Napier Wool seat from Camira — an elevated tactile experience for those who want it. Additional colorways and materials are available on request; visit moovlab.com or contact us for the full range.

HEALTH, SCIENCE & WHO IT’S FOR

Is there scientific research behind MOOVLAB Chair?

Yes. The MOOVLAB Chair has been validated through two independent research studies — one conducted by the University of Waterloo and one led by renowned Swiss spinal surgeon Prof. Jiří Dvořák. These studies demonstrate real, measurable ergonomic and physiological benefits.

Does MOOVLAB have patents on this technology?

Yes. MOOVLAB’s IP portfolio includes multiple granted utility patents and design patents in the U.S., Europe, China, and Japan. Our core dual-axis mechanism is protected by broad claims across many embodiments, making it one of the most defensible innovations in the seating industry. All rights reserved.

Is the MOOVLAB Chair good for people with back pain?

The MOOVLAB Chair was specifically designed to address the root causes of sitting-related back pain — static posture, compressed spinal discs, and weak core stabilizers. The continuous dual-axis movement promotes disc hydration, blood flow to supportive soft tissues, and gentle core activation. Many users report significant reduction in chronic back pain, stiffness, and discomfort. If you have a specific medical condition, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider alongside your use of the chair.

Is the MOOVLAB Chair suitable for all-day use?

Absolutely. Unlike balance balls or wobble stools — which cause fatigue and are impractical for extended use — the MOOVLAB Chair is engineered for full workday performance. The MOOVCOR™ mechanism provides movement without exertion, so your body stays engaged without tiring. The chair is rated for 12 years of 24/7 use on all core components.

Who is the MOOVLAB Chair designed for?

The MOOVLAB Chair is designed for anyone who sits for extended periods — whether at a traditional desk, a standing desk, in a home office, or in an enterprise environment. It is particularly well suited for:

Knowledge workers and professionals in hybrid or remote work settings
Creators, musicians, and studio professionals
Anyone experiencing chronic back pain or postural issues
Gamers who spend long hours at a workstation
Health-conscious individuals who want more from their daily routine
Organizations and enterprises investing in employee wellness

What size user does the MOOVLAB Chair accommodate?

The MOOVLAB Chair is designed to comfortably accommodate a wide range of body types — from the 5th to the 95th percentile. The maximum weight limit on our first product line is 275 lbs. (125kg). For specific height range and sizing guidance, please visit moovlab.com or contact our team directly — we’re happy to help you find the right fit.

Can I use the MOOVLAB Chair with a standing desk?

Yes — and we highly recommend it. The MOOVLAB Chair pairs exceptionally well with a height-adjustable standing desk. Transitioning between active sitting and standing throughout the day is one of the most effective approaches to reducing the negative effects of a sedentary workstyle. MOOVLAB is “Never Still” — we believe movement in every form adds up.

Will I feel sore when I first start using it?

Some users notice a slight adjustment period in the first few days, similar to starting a new workout routine. Your core stabilizing muscles begin to engage and relax in ways they likely haven’t in years. This initial awareness passes quickly as your body adapts. We recommend starting with regular seated sessions and gradually extending your time in the chair as your body acclimates. Most users transition naturally and comfortably within the first week.

Will the MOOVLAB-001 solve my pre-existing back problems?

No. The MOOVLAB Chair is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any disease, injury, or medical condition, including back pain, herniated discs, compressed discs, spinal stenosis, spinal injuries, or other musculoskeletal conditions.

MOOVLAB does not make any medical or therapeutic claims regarding the MOOVLAB Chair. If you have a pre-existing back, spinal, joint, or other medical condition, you should consult a licensed physician or qualified healthcare professional before using the product.

The MOOVLAB Chair is designed to encourage regular seated movement and active sitting. In general, movement and changes in posture may support comfort, circulation, joint mobility, and muscle engagement as part of a healthy lifestyle. However, these are general wellness concepts and should not be interpreted as medical claims or as evidence that the product will improve, resolve, or prevent any medical condition.

If you have a diagnosed spinal condition, including herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, chronic pain conditions, or prior spinal injuries, the MOOVLAB Chair is not a substitute for medical evaluation, treatment, physical therapy, pain management, or other professional care.

Individual experiences may vary. Some users may find active sitting more comfortable, while others may not. If you experience pain, numbness, dizziness, discomfort, or worsening symptoms while using the product, discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional.

The MOOVLAB Chair is a premium active seating product intended to support dynamic movement while seated. It is designed for users who want to reduce prolonged static sitting and incorporate more movement into their workday. It is not medicine, rehabilitation equipment, or a therapeutic device.

SETUP & ERGONOMICS

How do I set up the MOOVLAB Chair for the best experience?

Proper setup makes a meaningful difference. Key principles:

Adjust seat height so your feet rest flat on the floor and your knees are at or slightly below hip level — this encourages an open hip angle and upright posture.
You may also enjoy trying a slightly higher seat combined with the front tilt, which can naturally align the pelvis and back in a straighter, more upright position.
Position your workstation so your arms rest comfortably at your sides, not reaching forward or upward.
If using a monitor, you may need to raise it slightly after adjusting your seat height — a monitor arm or portable riser works well for this.
Allow your body to find the center of the seat naturally — the ergonomic seat design is built to guide you there. Avoid sitting off-center in the side-to-side dimension for extended periods.
The back panel offers an easy front-to-back adjustment to fill in your lumbar support — it’s a universal fit designed to work across a wide range of heights and body types.

Does the MOOVLAB Chair require assembly?

Yes, some light assembly is required — but it is quick and straightforward, typically taking 15 minutes or less. No special tools are required beyond what’s included in the box. Step-by-step assembly instructions are provided, and video guides are available at moovlab.com.

How will the MOOVLAB Chair fit at my workstation?

The MOOVLAB Chair’s footprint is comparable to a standard office chair and will complement most workstations without modification. The chair width is 21.85” / 55.5 cm. If you’re using it with a height-adjustable desk, we recommend pairing it at a setting where your arms rest naturally and your monitor is at eye level.

SUSTAINABILITY

Is the MOOVLAB Chair sustainable?

Sustainability isn’t a feature we bolted on — it’s a philosophy baked into every decision we’ve made about how the MOOVLAB Chair is designed, sourced, and built.

Local for local. The MOOVLAB Chair is engineered and assembled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and the majority of its components are sourced from suppliers in and around the state. Building locally means fewer miles traveled, lower emissions, stronger communities, and tighter quality control from material to finished chair. We believe that where something is made matters as much as how it’s made.

The best part is no part. Our design philosophy — “the best part is no part” — is at the core of how Thomas Bell and our design team approach every element of the MOOVLAB Chair. It means we only include what is truly necessary. Fewer components mean fewer resources consumed, less waste in production, and a simpler, more durable product over its lifetime. Minimalism isn’t just an aesthetic choice here — it’s an environmental one.

American-made materials. The plastics used in the MOOVLAB Chair are American-made, reducing supply chain emissions and supporting domestic manufacturing ecosystems. Our premium seat fabric — the Blazer Napier Wool from Camira — is a natural fiber option chosen for its breathability, durability, and lower environmental footprint compared to synthetic alternatives.

Buy nice things and keep them for a long time. We believe one of the most genuinely sustainable things a person can do is invest in something well-made and keep it. That’s why the MOOVCOR™ mechanism carries a 12-year warranty rated for 24/7 use — not because it’s a marketing number, but because the chair is built to last that long and beyond. A chair that lasts a decade or more doesn’t end up in a landfill. The most sustainable product is the one you never have to replace.

Minimal packaging, direct to your door. The MOOVLAB Chair ships in a single box, direct from our production facility to you — no middlemen, no unnecessary stops, no extra handling. This factory-direct model cuts out warehousing, reduces transportation emissions, and eliminates the excess packaging that comes with multi-step distribution chains. Less box. Less waste. More chair.

Sustainability at MOOVLAB is a journey, not a destination. We’re committed to continuously improving our materials, processes, and supply chain as we grow — and we’ll be transparent about our progress along the way.

PURCHASING, WARRANTY & SUPPORT

When can I order a MOOVLAB Chair?

The MOOVLAB Chair is launching publicly in September 2026. To join the waitlist and be among the first to experience MOOVLAB, visit moovlab.com and register your interest today.

How much does the MOOVLAB Chair cost?

The MOOVLAB Chair is priced at $1,799. Optional adjustable armrests are available for an additional $199. This positions MOOVLAB as a premium but accessible investment in your health and productivity — comparable to leading ergonomic chairs, but delivering something those chairs fundamentally cannot: continuous, validated movement.

What does the warranty cover?

The MOOVLAB Chair is backed by one of the strongest warranties in the industry:

MOOVCOR™ mechanism and all structural components: 12 years, rated for 24/7 use
Upholstery and cushions: 5 years of single-shift use

Our warranty reflects our confidence in the engineering of the MOOVCOR™ mechanism — the same standard we hold ourselves to in design and validation.

Where is the MOOVLAB Chair assembled?

The MOOVLAB Chair is proudly engineered and assembled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Leggett & Platt — one of the world’s most respected manufacturing partners in the furniture and seating industry. This ensures rigorous quality control and supports American manufacturing.

How does MOOVLAB compare to other premium chairs?

Herman Miller, Steelcase, and Haworth make excellent traditional ergonomic chairs — and they represent the best of a category that has changed little since the Aeron’s introduction in 1994. MOOVLAB is not competing on comfort or adjustability within that same paradigm. We’re building an entirely new one. Active Seating is to traditional ergonomics what the smartphone was to the flip phone — not an improvement in kind, but a leap in category. MOOVLAB is for people who don’t just want to sit better, but to move more while sitting.

Does MOOVLAB have a return policy?

At MOOVLAB, we stand behind the MOOVLAB Chair completely. We know that discovering the right chair takes time, which is why we offer a generous, no-hassle return window so you can experience active sitting in your own environment before committing fully. If the MOOVLAB-001 is not the right fit for you, we will make the return process as straightforward as possible.

1. 30-Day Return Window

We offer a 30-day return window from the date of delivery on all MOOVLAB chairs purchased directly through moovlab.com. This trial period reflects our confidence in the product and our commitment to giving you enough time to fully experience the benefits of active seating.

To be eligible for a return, your chair must meet the following conditions:

The return must be initiated within 30 days of your delivery date.
The chair must be returned in like-new condition, free from damage, excessive wear, or modification.
All original components, accessories, and hardware must be included.
The chair must be returned using the original packaging or MOOVLAB-approved replacement packaging.

2. How to Initiate a Return

To begin your return, contact our Customer Experience Team directly:

Email: info@moovlab.com

Please have your order number and delivery date available. Once your return request is received and approved, we will issue a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) along with a return shipping label. Attach the label securely to your package and schedule a pickup or drop off at your nearest shipping location.

We strongly recommend retaining your original packaging materials. If the original packaging is no longer available, MOOVLAB can ship replacement packaging to you for a $99 fee, which will be deducted from your refund.

3. Refunds

Once we receive and inspect your return, refunds are processed within 5 business days. Credit will be applied to your original method of payment. Please allow up to 10 business days for the refund to reflect in your account, depending on your financial institution.

United States (including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico)

A $99 return shipping fee will be deducted from your refund for all MOOVLAB Chair returns. Upon receipt and inspection of the returned chair, MOOVLAB will refund the purchase price of the chair minus the $99 return shipping fee. Original outbound shipping charges are non-refundable. Please note that MOOVLAB does not currently offer international orders.

4. Condition of Returned Items

All returns are subject to inspection upon receipt. The MOOVLAB Chair must arrive in like-new condition. Any damage, excessive wear, missing components, or signs of misuse may result in a deduction from your refund amount based on the extent of the damage. MOOVLAB will communicate any such deductions to you in writing before processing the adjusted refund.

We recommend photographing your chair and packaging prior to shipping it back to us.

5. Non-Returnable Items

The following items are not eligible for return:

Items marked as Final Sale at the time of purchase.
Refurbished or open-box chairs sold at a discounted rate.
Individual replacement parts and accessories.
Orders of 10 or more units, or orders totaling $10,000 or more (exclusive of shipping and applicable taxes), which are considered final sale.

6. Damaged or Defective Items

Please inspect your MOOVLAB Chair immediately upon delivery. If your chair arrives damaged or defective, contact us at info@moovlab.com within 5 business days of receipt. Include your order number, a description of the issue, and photos of the damage.

MOOVLAB will cover all return shipping costs for items that arrive damaged or defective and will issue a full refund or replacement at no charge to you, per your preference.

7. Exchanges

MOOVLAB does not offer direct product exchanges at this time. If you would like a different configuration, please initiate a return for your current order and place a new order for the desired product once your return is approved.

8. Order Cancellations

Orders may be cancelled without penalty before the chair has shipped. Once your order has entered our fulfillment process and shipped, it cannot be cancelled. In that case, our standard return policy will apply upon delivery.

9. Warranty

This Return Policy operates independently of the MOOVLAB Limited Warranty. Warranty claims for product defects arising outside the 30-day return window are handled separately and are not subject to the conditions outlined here. Please visit moovlab.com/warranty for full warranty terms and coverage details.

10. B2B and Commercial Orders

Return eligibility for business, commercial, or enterprise orders may differ from the terms above. Please contact our business team at info@moovlab.com to discuss the return terms applicable to your specific purchase agreement prior to ordering.

What is the actual name of your company and chair?

Great question — and one we get more than you’d think. Our company name is MOOVLAB. Not MOVELAB, not MOVE LAB, not MOVLAB. M-O-O-V-L-A-B. The double-O is intentional — it’s part of our identity, our energy, and our brand.

Our chair is the MOOVLAB Chair. Not the MOVELAB Chair, not the MOVE LAB Chair, not the MOVLAB Chair. If you’ve been searching for “MoveLab chair,” “Move Lab Chair,” or “Movelab Chair” — you’ve found us. Welcome.

The patented technology inside the MOOVLAB Chair is called MOOVCOR™. Not MOVE CORE, not MOVECORE, not MOOV CORE. MOOVCOR™ — one word, double-O, no space.

So to recap: MOOVLAB (not MoveLab or Move Lab). MOOVLAB Chair (not MoveLab-Chair). MOOVCOR™ (not MoveCore or Move Core). Everything lives at moovlab.com — bookmark it, and you’ll never have to guess again.

Visit us at moovlab.com or reach out directly at info@moovlab.com. Our team is happy to answer questions, assist with sizing, support enterprise and B2B inquiries, or simply tell you more about what makes the MOOVLAB Chair unlike anything else in seating.

How can I contact MOOVLAB?