A common expression for woodworking is “working with your hands,” which is a bit of a misnomer as woodworking is actually a full-body exercise. That’s not always a top-of-mind consideration when designing our workbenches and workshops though. If we view woodworking through that lens, then the decisions made on ergonomics in our shop come into sharper focus. WHY IT MATTERS. There are two main reasons to concern yourself with ergonomics in your work: efficiency and longevity. Both are equally important. The more immediately appealing consideration for woodworkers is efficiency. Working at the correct height on a stable surface allows you to put your full body into the work and spend more time in the shop. Then completing detail work up close will yield a nicer final result. Long term there are additional benefits as well. Working with your hands can aggravate conditions like carpal tunnel or arthritis. Worse yet, poor form may result in debilitating injuries to your back or joints.…