Standing desks are all the rage these days. The reason is that they are considered a healthier option than sitting down at a desk all day long.
This is because it’s believed that standing desks help you burn more calories and stay active throughout the course of your workday, which is something that everyone should strive for.
However, there are some things nobody tells you about standing desks that may make you think twice before investing in one.
This article is your guide to understanding all the benefits, drawbacks, and things nobody tells you about standing desks. Read on!
• What is a Standing Desk?
• Who Should Use Standing Desks?
• What Are the Benefits of Using Standing Desks?
• Are There Side Effects to Using Standing Desks?
• What to Consider When Buying Standing Desks
What is a Standing Desk?
A standing desk is an adjustable-height desk that allows you to stand up while working instead of sitting down. People typically use standing desks in the workplace to encourage employees to be more active and burn calories throughout the day. They can come with various features, such as cup holders and storage space for files and belongings.
Who Should Use Standing Desks?
So, who should use standing desks? The short answer is anyone who wants to be healthier and more active. Standing desks can help burn calories by encouraging movement instead of sitting down all day. This is especially important for people who work at desks all day long but don’t have access to a gym or other facilities where they can exercise.
What Are the Benefits of Using Standing Desks?
There are many benefits to using standing desks. The benefits include:
Lowers Your Risk of Weight Gain and Obesity
Weight gain is a common problem for many people working at desks all day. It’s easy to eat unhealthy snacks or meals at your desk and not realize how much you’re eating until it’s too late. Standing desks can help you stay active throughout the day, which helps lower your risk of weight gain and obesity.
Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Standing desks can also help lower your blood sugar levels. Sitting all day makes your body burn fewer calories because it isn’t active. This can lead to high blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Elevate Your Heart Rate and Reduce the Risk of Heart Diseases
Standing desks can help your heart rate stay elevated throughout the day, which reduces your risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week for optimal health benefits. Standing desks can help you achieve this goal by encouraging you to move around more often during the day.
Improve Posture and Reduce Back Pain
Standing desks can help improve your posture and reduce back pain. Sitting for long periods can cause your spine to compress, which can lead to poor posture and chronic back pain. By standing while working, you can keep your spine properly aligned, so it doesn’t suffer any damage.
Increase Alertness and Boost Productivity
Standing desks are great for increasing alertness and boosting productivity. Sitting for long periods can cause you to become drowsy and sluggish, leading to poor concentration levels and decreased productivity. By standing while working, you’ll be able to stay awake longer without feeling fatigued.
Are There Side Effects to Using Standing Desks?
While standing desks are a great way to boost your productivity and improve your health, there are some side effects that you need to be aware of.
Drained and Sore Leg Muscles
Standing desks can cause your leg muscles to become fatigued and sore. You may experience this as pain in your calves or thighs, or you may feel slightly weak when standing after using the desk for an extended period. This normal side effect should subside within a few days as your muscles get used to standing while working.
Stiff Neck and Shoulders
Stiffness in your neck and shoulders is another common side effect of using a standing desk. Poor posture can cause this strain on your muscles when you are trying to make yourself comfortable while working. If the problem persists, try experimenting with different positions until you find one that works best.
What to Consider When Buying Standing Desks
Before buying a standing desk, consider a few things. If you’re thinking about making the switch from sitting to standing, these tips will help you make an informed decision.
Height Range
The first thing to consider is the height range. Please ensure the desk is tall enough for you to comfortably stand on it. If not, it will be more of a nuisance than anything else. Some standing desks can be raised or lowered with a crank handle; others have preset heights and cannot be adjusted further.
Desk Surface Dimensions
The surface dimensions are another vital factor to consider. If your desk is too small, you won’t be able to fit all of your work on it and will have to move things around constantly.
Make sure the standing desk has enough room for everything you need without crowding or pushing things off the edges.
Stability
The stability of the desk is also essential. If it’s not stable, it could wobble or fall over when you lean on it or put too much weight on one side. You don’t want this to happen while you are working; if it does, it could involve severe injury. A sturdy standing desk will help prevent accidents and keep you safe while using your computer for long periods.
Price
The price of a standing desk is another crucial factor to consider. They can range from £100 to over a thousand pounds, depending on the type you purchase, its features, and the materials used in construction. For example, you can get a manufactured desk top with a veneer finish, or spend a bit more on a solid wood option. Before buying one, be sure to check out the prices for different options. And of course, consider the terms their return policies. Many brands have generous return policies that allow you to make sure that you’re happy with your investment.
So, are standing desks worth the hype? Do they help you focus and increase your productivity? Yes, they are! Standing desks have been shown to improve your mood, reduce stress and boost energy levels, which can help you be more productive at work. They also make it easier for those who sit down a lot throughout the day to stay active.
