Once you get used to how this chair works, you come to realize it’s a safer design then the loungers that lift up the arms to change positions. Who hasn’t been folded up in a lounger This one won’t do that, but in order to change positions you do have to get up off the chair. I have a back injury that makes it difficult to lay on my stomach… I didn’t have any problems with this lounger. The material is thick and sturdy- much like a brushed canvas.