Working in an office involves spending a lot of time sitting at a desk, which can actually be harmful to your health. Studies have linked prolonged sitting to health risks such as weight gain, obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and more.
One solution to this problem is to stand up more often, but this isn’t practical for most people who work on a computer. That’s where standing desks come in. These desks allow you to stand while you work, making them more comfortable and ergonomic. This means you won’t have to sit in a chair all day.
Standing desks are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to stay healthy, comfortable and productive while working. However, with so many different types of standing desks available, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this guide, we will explore the key factors to consider when choosing a standing desk to ensure you make an informed decision.
What Is A Standing Desk?
A standing desk is a type of desk that allows you to stand comfortably while you work. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Most models can be adjusted to different heights for standing or sitting when needed. Standing desks are designed to provide a more ergonomic and healthy work environment than traditional seated desks.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Standing Desks?
Standing desks have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people look for ways to improve their health and productivity at work. While there are many benefits to using a standing desk, there are also some potential downsides to consider. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of standing desks to help you decide if this type of desk is right for you.
Pros of Standing Desks
Improved Posture: When you stand, your body automatically straightens up, reducing strain on your back, neck, and shoulders. This can improve your posture and prevent slouching or hunching over a keyboard. It alleviates back pain is another benefit of using a standing desk since it reduces the amount of time spent sitting in a chair.
Increased Energy and Focus: Standing and moving around helps increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which can improve mental alertness and focus. Studies suggest that using a standing desk can increase workplace productivity and life expectancy, even with just four hours of use per day.
Reduced Risk of Health Problems: Prolonged sitting has been linked to a range of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease which is linked to a sedentary lifestyle. Standing more often can help reduce your risk of these conditions. A standing desk can help control blood sugar levels by reducing post-lunch blood sugar spikes, which is beneficial for people with diabetes.
Burn More Calories: Studies show that standing desk users can burn over 170 additional calories compared to working while seated in the same time period. This can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Versatility: Many standing desks are adjustable, allowing you to easily switch between standing and sitting throughout the day, which can help reduce discomfort and fatigue.
Cons of Standing Desks
Leg and Foot Fatigue: Standing for extended periods can lead to leg and foot fatigue, especially if you don’t have supportive shoes or anti-fatigue mats.
Increased Risk of Varicose Veins: Standing for long periods can also increase your risk of developing varicose veins.
Discomfort: Standing for long periods can also cause discomfort in your back, hips, and legs. It’s important to take breaks and switch between standing and sitting to reduce discomfort.
Cost: Standing desks can be more expensive than traditional desks, which may be a barrier for some people.
Assembly: Some standing desks require assembly, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.
Standing desks have many benefits, including improved posture, increased energy and focus, and a reduced risk of health problems associated with prolonged sitting. However, while standing desks offer a range of benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone.
If you have any medical conditions that affect your ability to stand for long periods of time, a standing desk may not be the best option for you. Additionally, if you are not comfortable working while standing, it may be better to stick with a traditional seated desk. It’s important to take breaks and switch between standing and sitting to reduce discomfort throughout the day.
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What To Consider When Buying A Standing Desk?
When shopping for a standing desk, there are several factors to consider, including material, construction, adjustability, size, budget, and ease of assembly.
Material and Construction
Standing desks can be made of various materials, including wood, metal, laminate and plastic. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs.
The construction of a standing desk can impact its durability and stability. Look for desks with solid legs and a strong frame. Typically, they have a metal frame and work surfaces or shelves made of wood or laminate. The color of the wood or laminate allows you to match your existing workspace easily. A standing desk that is well-constructed and made from high-quality materials will last for years to come.
The most practical standing desks have multiple work surfaces or shelves. This will give you ample space to keep your computer, lamp, and other office accessories within reach.
If you’re new to using standing desks, it’s a good idea to look for an adjustable option that can be used for both standing and sitting. This will allow you to ease into the transition of standing for long periods while still having the option to sit when you need to.
Adjustability
While many standing desks can be adjusted to alternate between sitting and standing positions, not all of them are equally easy to adjust.
If you’re looking for the easiest desk to adjust, consider getting a model with electric adjustability. With these desks, all you need to do is press a button, and the desk will move up or down.
Another option is a crank standing desk, which can be raised or lowered manually by turning a lever. While it’s a relatively straightforward process, it may not be the best choice for people with arthritis or other joint pain.
Some standing desks can be adjusted by removing some bolts and extending the legs. However, this is the most difficult type of desk to adjust since you’ll need to clear everything off the desk surface before you can raise or lower it.
Proper ergonomic setup for your standing desk is essential to help prevent chronic back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain injury (RSI), and more severe health issues such as blood clots.
Look for standing desks that are easy to adjust to different heights and angles, so you can find a comfortable working position.
Size
The size of the desk is also an important consideration. Make sure the desk will fit in your workspace and is large enough to accommodate all of your work essentials, such as your computer, monitor, keyboard, and any other accessories. If you have limited space, look for a desk that is compact and has a smaller footprint.
When you’re looking for a standing desk, you’ll have two main options to choose from. The first option is a large, freestanding model. This desk is similar to a regular desk, but it’s designed to be tall enough so that you can stand while you work on your computer. These desks are big enough to hold your monitor, keyboard, and other accessories within easy reach, just like a traditional desk. The size of the desk can vary, so make sure to measure your workspace before you buy one.
The second option is an add-on standing desk. This is a small platform or table that you place on top of your regular desk to raise its height. Some models of add-on standing desks hang above the desk surface to save space. However, some of these models have a fixed height, which means that your computer components will be at the same height, which could lead to wrist pain. So, it’s essential to consider the ergonomics of an add-on standing desk before you purchase one.
Walking Feature
If you feel that standing alone isn’t enough to give your health a boost, you can consider a standing desk that comes with a walking feature. These desks have an attached treadmill that allows you to stay mobile while you work on your computer, talk on the phone, or complete other tasks.
When you’re choosing a walking standing desk, it’s important to look for a model with a quiet motor so that you can concentrate on your work without any distractions. It’s also helpful to select a style that tracks your steps throughout the day so that you can monitor your level of physical activity. This way, you’ll know exactly how active you’ve been while using the desk.
Easy to Assemble
Make sure the desk is easy to assemble. Look for desks that come with clear instructions and all of the necessary tools to make assembly quick and easy.
Speed
The speed at which a desk raises or lowers can vary depending on the model and manufacturer. Some desks may take several seconds to adjust, while others can raise or lower in just a few seconds. In general, electric-powered height-adjustable standing desks tend to be faster than manually operated ones.
Power
Electric-powered height-adjustable desks require a source of electricity to function. It’s important to ensure that you have easy access to an electrical outlet or power source in the area where you plan to use the desk. Some desks come with cords that are long enough to reach nearby outlets, while others may require additional extension cords or modifications to your workspace.
Extra Storage
Some height-adjustable standing desks come with additional storage options, such as drawers or shelves, built into the desk itself. This can be a useful feature for keeping your workspace organized and clutter-free. However, not all height-adjustable desks offer extra storage, so you’ll want to consider your specific storage needs when choosing a desk. If you need additional storage but can’t find a desk with built-in options, you may want to consider adding separate storage solutions to your workspace, such as shelves or cabinets.
Alternatives
If your current desk doesn’t allow you to stand while working, don’t fret! There are many standing desk converters available for purchase. These add-ons can be placed on top of your desk, allowing you to elevate your work surface when you need to stand. While they may not be as visually appealing as standing desks, they are often much more budget-friendly.
Budget
Finally, standing desks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and look for a desk that offers the features you need at a price you can afford.
What Is The Best Height with A Standing Desk?
The ideal height for a standing desk will depend on your height and the type of work you are doing. As a general rule, your desk should be at a height that allows you to work comfortably without straining your neck or shoulders. A good starting point is to set your desk at elbow height and adjust from there. For example, your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when typing and your eyes are level with the top of your screen.
Proper positioning of your computer screen is crucial when standing at your desk. Make sure the monitor is positioned about 20 to 28 inches away from your face.
When typing at your standing desk, keep your mouse and keyboard at the same level so your wrists are straight. This can help prevent wrist pain.
How Long Should You Stand at A Standing Desk?
It’s important to avoid standing for too long without taking breaks. Experts recommend standing for 20-30 minutes at a time and taking short breaks to sit or move around. You can gradually increase the amount of time you spend standing as your body adjusts to the new position.
It is recommended to alternate between standing and sitting every 30-60 minutes. Standing for long periods of time can cause fatigue and discomfort, so it’s important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed.
What is the Best Posture for Standing Desk?
When standing at your desk, it’s important to maintain good posture to avoid discomfort and injury. Stand up straight with your shoulders relaxed, your back straight, and your feet hip-width apart flat on the ground. Stand with your toes pointing forward and your hips back, and engage your abs to align your spine. Avoid leaning or slouching, as this can lead to back and neck pain.
Keep your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle and your wrists straight. Avoid leaning on the desk or locking your knees. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and use an anti-fatigue mat to reduce stress on your joints.
Using an anti-fatigue mat can help promote subtle movements in your legs and increase blood flow, making it more comfortable to stand for long periods.
Adding arm supports to your standing desk can help take pressure off your wrists when typing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right standing desk requires careful consideration of several factors, including material, construction, adjustability, size, budget, and ease of assembly. By taking the time to find the right desk for your needs, you can enjoy the many benefits of working while standing, including improved posture, increased energy and focus, and reduced risk of health problems associated with prolonged sitting. Remember to also pay attention to your posture and take breaks to avoid discomfort and fatigue. With the right standing desk and healthy habits, you can create a comfortable and productive workspace in your home office or office supply that supports your overall well-being.
