Did you know that sitting at a desk all day raises your risk of developing diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and even early death?
Fortunately, a standing desk converter can help you avoid these negative health consequences. But not all stand-up desk converter models are created equal.
What do you need to know to make the best purchase? Read on to learn more about sitting to standing desk options and which one's right for you.
What is a Stand-Up Desk Converter?
Stand up desk converters allow you to adjust the height of your workspace. That way, you can work at your current desk either seated or standing. This allows for a seamless transition into a "standing habit" at work.
Researchers continue to study the effects of standing to work. But initial evidence points to noteworthy health benefits.
Some studies show a strong correlation between standing to work and improved mood and energy levels, too. As a result, employees who stand feel happier and become more productive. It's a win-win.
Still not convinced that a transition to standing will prove best for you? Let's break down the health benefits further.
The Health Benefits of Standing to Work
It might feel intimidating at first to consider a big workplace change like transitioning from sitting to standing. But the move stands to make you happier and longer-lived. Standing to work leads to the following health benefits:
- lowered risk of weight gain and obesity
- decreased blood sugar levels
- reduced risk of heart disease
- decreased back pain
The impressive health benefits of standing desks correlate to increased longevity. Conversely, sitting remains linked to a decreased quality of life and a shorter lifespan.
Conclusive evidence from 18 studies reveals that people that sit the most die the earliest. The data couldn't be more clear. Other studies suggest that if we reduced sitting time to three hours per day, we could add two more years to our lives.
But the benefits don't stop there. Research shows that standing throughout the work day impacts your attitude and performance.
Other Benefits of a Sit-Stand Desk Conversion
Making the transition to standing leads to better quality of life and increased longevity. But can it make you do a better job? Yes.
When participants of one study stood at their desks for seven weeks, they reported lower levels of fatigue and stress. Eighty-seven percent of participants also noted increased energy and vigor. This led to ramped up job performance.
Practical Considerations
Apart from the impressive health benefits and improvements in mood and performance, there are practical concerns to keep in mind. First, let's talk about the price of standing desk converters.
They tend to be cheaper than their seated or full standing desk counterparts. They are compact in size. So, they ship more easily and affordably than other types of desks.
What does this mean for you? It permits you to explore the "standing at work" difference with minimal investment. The converter sits atop your current seated desk, so you don't have to worry about moving and/or disposing of your current desk.
Unlike seated desk furniture or full seated desks, converters are a cinch to assemble. In fact, many come ready made. So, you can start using them right out of the box with a few minor adjustments. No tools required.
Standing desk converters prove highly portable, too. You can take them wherever you work.
For example, you can migrate from your home office desk to the kitchen counter to the dining room table as the mood strikes you. Wherever you go, your standing desk converter goes.
The advantages of opting for a standing desk converter are many. But how do you find the right model for you? Here are some factors to consider as you're evaluating different models.
Finding the Right Desk Converter for You
There are some important criteria to keep in mind as you start researching and evaluating various desk converters. These include assessing the desk's overall structure, the company that makes it, and customer reviews of each product.
As you dive into research, pay particular attention to the following considerations:
- quality
- adjustability
- ergonomics
- appearance
Let's take a closer look at these criteria and how you can make a sound judgment while shopping.
Criteria for a Stand Up Desk Converter
In terms of quality, start by examining the materials and construction of the desk converters you're considering buying. You want a model that's easy to adjust and goes the distance. So, make sure that you consider brands and models featuring high-quality materials and mechanics.
The quality of the product will affect how easy it is to adjust. Of course, ease of adjustment will impact how long you stand and sit.
Look for a piece that makes transitioning back and forth between sitting and standing postures effortless and repeatable.
The next thing to pay attention to is the overall ergonomics of the unit you're assessing. Does it put your monitor, keyboard, and mouse in the right spot? Or, does it make you strain in unnatural ways?
Posture issues lead to back, neck, and/or wrist pain over the long haul. So, make sure that the ergonomics of your converter feel natural and comfortable.
Appearance remains a subjective criterion. But you need to purchase a make and model that appeals to you visually.
Many of the latest brands feature innovative designs that look sleek and stylish. So, find a piece that works with your body and your fashion sense.
Final Considerations for Your Standing Desk Converter
Customer service may not be at the top of your priority list when it comes to purchasing a standing desk converter. But if something goes wrong, you don't want to be left in the lurch.
Check out customer reviews for product quality. Also look for information about how potential companies deal with issues such as delivery, assembly questions, returns, and repairs.
At Uncaged Ergonomics, we specialize in standing desk conversions for individual needs. We pride ourselves on affordable, useful, effective products to help you achieve greater health and well-being. Contact us today with your questions or to find out more about the right desk conversion for your office.