Standing Desks have increasingly transformed today’s modern offices into health-enhancing, productive workspaces. The shift in trend from the conventionally sedentary work setup to the use of standing desks reflects a growing awareness regarding the negative impacts on health due to excessive sitting. This chapter will identify the health benefits of using standing desks and give best practices for implementing them into your workspace.
Health Benefits of Standing Desks:
Reduced Risk of Health Problems
Among the major advantages that are associated with standing desks is the possibility of reducing the risks resulting from too much sitting. Prolonged sitting has been linked to a range of health-related problems, which include obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and musculoskeletal disorders. The desks offer a great means of breaking the long periods of sitting and thus promote good health.
Improved Posture
Standing desks encourage better posture due to the natural alignment of the spine. In case one has a good standing posture, then the prevalence of developing pains in the back and neck areas as a result of sitting habits at work reduces. Further, it allows an increase in comfort and productivity during working hours.
Improved Energy and Alertness
Many users of standing desks say that they have increased energy levels and are much more alert. Standing makes a person engage their muscles, which improves blood circulation and the flow of oxygen. This will help increase cognitive function and fight off the mid-afternoon slump, increasing a person’s focus and productivity level.
Using Standing Desks: Best Practices
Gradual Transition
If you’re new to standing desks, it’s necessary to transition gradually. You should start working while standing for short periods during a day and increase time as your body adapts to the new stance. This will help not to experience discomfort or tiredness.
Anti-Fatigue Mat
Standing for extended periods of time could be uncomfortable or tiring. An anti-fatigue mat under one’s feet provides a padded surface, reducing stress on the feet, knees, and back. The addition of such a simple design feature can do so much to enhance comfort at a standing desk.
Adjust Desk Height
The height of the perfect standing desk does matter when it comes to proper ergonomics. Keep the desk at elbow height so that you are in a position to maintain an angle of 90 degrees at your elbows. Your computer monitor should be at eye level and at a position that will not strain your neck or your eyes. In case you are going to use the desk both for sitting and standing purposes, make sure to adjust the height as per your need for a comfortable and practical standing experience.
Add Movement
Standing does not mean staying in one place. Incorporate frequent movement while standing. Simple movements such as shifting your weight from one foot to the other, light stretching, or short walks during breaks will prevent stiffness and allow for a combination of the benefits of a standing desk.
Alternate Between Standing and Sitting
While aiming to reduce sitting time, it is highly important to balance standing and sitting. Keep on moving from the sitting position to a standing one and vice versa all the time so that you do not overwork your body and make your body get some rest. Many standing desks are adjustable, allowing you to easily switch between sitting and standing positions.
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to your body. If you are going to be in pain or become too fatigued, then it is important that you take breaks and adjust your posture. Heed what your body is telling you and make adjustments when needed, that’s how you can set yourself up for a positive, sustainable experience at your standing desk.
Conclusion
Standing desks are a game-changer for office ergonomics and maintaining health at work. From reduced health risks and better posture to increased energy, etc. the list of the benefits from standing desks presents a wondrous bundle of reasons for a worker to adopt this means of developing a much healthier working environment. Keeping in mind some best practices-gradually going through the transition process, ensuring the height is correct, adding Movement, and listening to your body-it will bring all the benefits associated with standing desks while keeping the workspace comfortable and productive.
We hope this article will be helpful to you. Stay tuned for upcoming articles.
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