Benefits of standing desks

It’s widely accepted that sitting at a desk for an extended period of time can be bad for our physical and mental health. Whether working from home or in an office, many of us find ourselves in a sedentary working environment for eight hours a day with little opportunity for movement during that time, leading to a number of significant health problems.

 

Standing desks – or sit/stand desks as they are often referred to – are the solution to this problem and offer a wide range of benefits. 

What is a standing desk?

A standing desk is a height-adjustable desk or table which enables the user to do their ‘desk job’ while standing up. These types of desks have become increasingly popular in recent years and are frequently heralded for boosting productivity and motivation, as well as having a number of health benefits. 

What are the benefits of a standing desk 

Evidence suggests that a sit stand desk can be beneficial in a number of different ways. We will explore some of these benefits below.

   1. Standing desks can reduce back pain

The human body is not designed to sit for prolonged periods of time. Even with the best chair or supporting equipment, remaining in one position for hours at a time causes muscles to stiffen, leading to a higher risk of back pain. By breaking up your normal sedentary routine with periods of standing, you are actively engaging your muscles and boosting movement which decreases the risk of back and neck aches and pains.

   2. Standing desks can improve levels of productivity

Evidence has shown that standing desks can improve overall work performance. An increase in energy levels leads to sharper focus, stronger cognitive activity and concentration, and you are less susceptible to fatigue and demotivation.

 

   3. Standing desks can boost mood and energy levels

Staying active throughout the working day means you feel more alert, engaged and energised. With a standing desk, you are less likely to feel sluggish or lethargic which can occur as a result of a sedentary lifestyle, enabling you to move more freely which is great for general fitness.

   4. Standing desks can reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes

Sitting for hours at a time has a detrimental effect on regulating glucose levels in the bloodstream. Standing at a desk, however, can reduce cholesterol, blood sugar levels and fat metabolism, which helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, along with other metabolic issues.

   5. Standing desks can improve posture

Working while standing helps to break bad posture habits such as slouching or hunching. An ergonomic, height adjustable workstation allows you to set your monitor to eye-level and elevate the desk so it aligns with your elbows, leading to improved posture and comfort.

  6. Standing desks can burn calories

While exercise is always the most effective way to burn calories, standing at a desk rather than sitting can also be beneficial for weight management, with some sources suggesting you could burn approximately 1000 extra calories each week simply by standing at your desk for a few hours each day. To burn even more calories, why not try the award-winning Yo-Yo desk bike to get you moving while working?

How to get used to a standing desk

It can take a while to get used to a standing desk, so don’t be discouraged if you initially struggle to stand for long periods at first. Consider alternating between standing and sitting every 30 to 60 minutes for the first few days and gradually build up the duration of time standing each day.

Is standing at a desk better than sitting?

Evidence suggests that standing at a desk, rather than sitting, leads to improved productivity, more calories burned, improved concentration and increased energy while keeping lethargy and back pain at bay.

How long should you stand at a standing desk?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how long you should use a standing desk. We would advise standing for shorter periods at first, then gradually extend the duration of time standing each day. For general guidance, aim to spend one hour standing for every one to two hours sitting.

How to turn my desk into a standing desk

If you’re looking for a low cost alternative to a standing desk, you can transform your existing work surface using a desk converter. They’re easy to assemble and you can adjust the height to suit your requirements. Why not check out our desk converter range for further inspiration?

How to set adjustable desk height

When setting the desk height, be aware that the desk should be level with your elbows while the top of the computer or laptop screen should be at eye level. If using an electronic desk such as the Yo-Yo Pro 2, dual electronic motors allow you to alter the height at the press of a button, while a manual desk such as the Envol Classic  can be controlled via a retractable crank under the desktop.

What is the best sit stand desk

With a wide range of sit stand desks available in a variety of styles, sizes and prices, we are confident you will find the right standing desk for you here at Manutan. If you’re looking for  an ergonomic and electronic desk, why not try our Yo-Yo Pro 2+ range, or if you’re looking to convert an existing workspace into a sit stand desk, take a look at the Yo-Yo 80-s desk riser. Take a look at our full range for inspiration.