New to Standing Desks? Here’s What You Need To Know

Sitting may be relaxing (doesn’t it just feel good sometimes?), but too much sitting can be alarming. The research is clear: people who sit for long periods are more likely to acquire chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

We often sit because it offers comfort and makes it easier to perform motor skills needed for work and active tasks such as driving, computer work, detailed drawing, holding a spoon, and writing. However, too much sitting can be detrimental to our health. There is a remedy at hand, though; a significant number of studies suggest the use of adjustable height standing desks and the implementation of sit-stand workstations to lessen the harmful effects of a sedentary lifestyle.

Many workers responded positively to the inclusion of adjustable standing desks or standing desk converters in the workplace. Some business owners even encourage design teams to adopt standing desks as part of innovative office design. Now the question is, are we using them properly?

On the first few days of using a standing desk, it is best to start by alternating between standing and sitting for a few minutes to hours at a time until you are accustomed to standing for long periods. This will allow your body to adjust and slowly get used to standing at work and sitting when needed.

The following are suggestions on how to maximize the use of a standing desk in sit-stand workstations and achieve positive results, such as increased productivity, less back and shoulder pain, and increased weight loss due to periodic movement.

PROPER HEIGHT

The height of the desk should generally be at elbow height or slightly below. Your elbows should be positioned at a nearly 90-degree angle from the floor. To test, measure the distance from the floor to the bottom of your elbow. The desk should be adjusted to this height.

The monitor should be placed at eye level and 15 to 30 inches away from you. This will allow you to work with comfort and focus, and it will prevent arm and wrist injuries. An adjustable monitor stand with gas compression can help you adjust the monitor to the perfect height (there may be subtle adjustments from sitting to standing positions you will want to make).

Consider your body’s proportion before setting the height. You have the option to buy a standing desk or stick with your existing table and use a standing desk converter.

CORRECT POSTURE

Your body must be positioned for maximum comfort and correct posture when using an adjustable standing desk. Incorrect posture can have adverse health effects. Start with your knees slightly bent and not completely straight to the point that they lock up.

Followed by periodically shifting your body’s weight back and forth from each foot to increase comfort and endurance. Keep wrists straight and elbows close to your body. Finally, turn on the monitor, and make sure that you can look straight at it and don’t have to bend your neck downward.

FLOOR AND FEET

Wearing the right shoes will also have an impact when working at a standing desk. A clean floor must also be maintained, especially in the working area. The CCOHS (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety) recommends using wooden, cork, or carpeted floors for standing work to make it safer for workers.

The floors must be properly level and non-slippery. Avoid standing on concrete or metal floors if possible, or cover concrete or metal floors with mats. An anti-fatigue mat can make the transition from a sitting to a standing desk much easier.

Ready to transform your workspace and boost your well-being? Investing in an AnthroDesk standing desk or converter is a simple yet powerful step towards a healthier, more active workday. Explore our wide range of ergonomic solutions designed to enhance comfort, productivity, and overall health. Visit AnthroDesk.com today and discover the perfect setup to help you stand tall, work smart, and feel great!