Kinematic body responses and perceived discomfort in a bumpy ride: Effects of sitting posture

Abstract

The present study investigates perceived comfort and whole-body vibration transmissibility in intensive repetitive pitch exposure representing a bumpy ride. Three sitting strategies (preferred, erect, and slouched) were evaluated for perceived body discomfort and body kinematic responses. Nine male and twelve female participants were seated in a moving-based driving simulator. The slouched posture significantly increased lateral and yaw body motion and induced more discomfort in the seat back area. After three repetitive exposures, participants anticipated the upcoming motion using more-effective postural control strategies to stabilize pelvis, trunk, and head in space.