Standing might be the last thing you’d want to do while working. However, standing is actually an important part of maintaining overall health. It prevents back pain, cardiovascular problems, weight gain and even cancer!
But how do you “stand” in a corporate driven society that requires you to “sit” most of the time? Enter standing desks, an innovative tool in the world of office ergonomics. A standing desk encourages the user to stand periodically.
It comes with many benefits but how do you actually use one? Here’s our guide on how to use a standing desk properly
Find the Right Height
Adjust your standing desk to the correct height. Make sure your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when typing and your screen is at eye level. This helps maintain proper posture, reducing strain on your neck and shoulders.
If your desk cannot reach your desired height, consider getting a monitor arm. A monitor arm can elevate your screen to eye level while also improving the aesthetics of your setup!
Proper Posture
Proper posture at a standing desk is just as important as the desk itself. Make sure to stand with your neck tall, feet flat and shoulders relaxed. This applies while you’re sitting down too.
Avoid slouching or leaning on the desk as this can lead to muscle strain and discomfort.
Get Anti-Fatigue Mat
Anti-fatigue mats are mats that provide cushioning and support for your feet. Standing for too long can be exhausting especially if you’re not used to it. Having a mat will reduce some discomfort and fatigue while also encouraging movement.
Move Around
Standing doesn’t mean staying completely still. Remember to move around to relieve pressure from your feet and get the blood flowing. Do some standing desk exercises like shifting your weight from one foot to another or gently rolling your shoulders.
Doing some simple stretches will also keep your muscles engaged and prevent fatigue.
Alternate Slowly
If you’re new to standing desks, don’t jump into standing all day right away. Begin by alternating between sitting and standing in short intervals. This will allow your body to adjust gradually and you’ll be able to stand much longer overtime.
Prevent Desk Clutter
While there is no relation between desk clutter and posture, it is essential to practise healthy desk habits for mental clarity. A cluttered desk can lead to distractions and increase stress levels.
This will hinder your ability to focus on work, affecting your productivity. Make sure to put your files, office supplies and cables in the right place. Wipe your table every week or so and digitise your documents to minimise paper clutter.
Standing Desk Benefits
There are virtually loads of benefits once you know how to use a standing desk properly. Here are some standing desk health benefits you can expect to reap:
Improved Posture
By standing at your desk, you naturally engage your core muscles and maintain better spine alignment. This reduces the risk of developing chronic back pain, neck strain and musculoskeletal disorder.
Increased Energy and Alertness
Standing encourages better blood circulation and oxygen flow throughout your body. This can help combat feelings of fatigue and lethargy often associated with prolonged sitting.
Enhanced Focus and Productivity
The ability to stand and move around can help you stay mentally engaged. You’ll be able to focus on work better, bringing you a step closer to that promotion you deserve!
Reduced Risk of Health Problems
Research suggests that excessive sitting is linked to various health issues. This includes obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Using a standing desk can help mitigate these risks by breaking up long periods of sitting.
Weight Management
Standing burns more calories than sitting. It does so in small amounts but the cumulative effect overtime can contribute to weight management. Not to mention keeping you fit and healthy all year round.
Environmental Considerations
High quality standing desks are actually environmentally friendly options. They usually require fewer resources to manufacture and may encourage users to adopt sustainable work habits.
Standing Desk Setup Optimisation
Knowing how to use a standing desk properly is one thing but customising it to your benefit is another. The world of office ergonomics is filled with various accessories and your standing desk serves as the perfect foundation for customisation.
This can maximise the profound benefits of your standing desk, boosting its effectiveness. You can start by getting an ergonomic chair. A Steelcase ergonomic chair is a popular choice among office workers.
It comes with many features and benefits that can complement your standing desk. This includes adjustability, lumbar support, breathable mesh support and many more. There are also other standing desk accessories for you to choose from including:
- Keyboard Trays: These can be attached to your standing desk to ensure that your keyboard and mouse are at the correct height and angle, preventing wrist strain.
- Footrests: A footrest can help support your feet while standing, reducing pressure on your lower back and legs.
- Cable Management Solutions: Ensure your workspace is tidy and safe and keep your cords and cables out of the way with cable management solutions.
- Ergonomic Monitor Arms: A monitor arm allows for easy adjustment and positioning, reducing strain on your neck and eyes.
- Standing Desk Converters: If you’re not ready to invest in a full standing desk, a converter allows you to transform your existing desk into a standing desk.
- Ergonomic Mats: Ergonomic mats provide additional support and comfort for standing, reducing pressure on your joints and muscles.
Conclusion
Office ergonomics has revolutionised the way we work. While sitting down seems like a harmless activity, too much sitting can actually be detrimental. With the help of a standing desk, office workers can mitigate the risks of prolonged sitting.
Just make sure you know how to use a standing desk properly and you’re good to go! And don’t forget to complement your desk with other ergonomics solutions like chairs, footrests and mats.
Need ergonomic office solutions for your workstation? Check out our products to enhance your office set up.
