You know the dangers of sitting too much, but what about standing all day?
It turns out that prolonged standing at work isn't that good either. Overdoing it can cause back, leg, and foot pain, plus you increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. In fact, this risk is comparable to workers who smoke daily and those who are obese.
Now, if this info makes things confusing for you, don't worry. If you already have a standing desk, you don't have to get rid of it. Here, we'll discuss what you need to know about standing vs. sitting at work.
Standing vs. Sitting at Work: Balance Is Key
The thing about a standing work desk is it won't automatically make you healthy. To reap its benefits, you need to know how to use it properly.
That means you have to alternate between standing and sitting. Don't spend your time standing the entire workday, especially if you're a beginner. Ease into it until your body gets accustomed to standing and sitting.
With practice, you should get to a point where your time is evenly split between standing and sitting. What's important is you don't rush into it, and that you listen to your body.
Why a Standing Desk? Some Reasons to Keep Using It
If you haven't bought a standing desk, you may be wondering if it's still necessary to get one. The answer is yes, but you should opt for one that has an adjustable height feature.
If your sit-stand desk has only one setting (read: high or low), you're going to strain your muscles. You always want to work ergonomically, and your desk has to reflect that.
Also, if you plan to stand longer while working, you should invest in the right accessories. For example, an anti-fatigue mat can do wonders for reducing discomfort and improving blood flow.
The Importance of Sitting Down for Some Activities
You love your standing desk, but it may not be the best option for certain tasks, especially those that involve fine motor skills.
This is why we don't drive standing up or why detailed surgeries have to be performed while sitting down. During these tasks, our brains function better while we are seated.
If you have a good ergonomic chair, there's no reason for you to throw it away just because you now have a standing desk. Again, balance is key. As long as you use your standing desk and chair right, you can minimize your risk of strains and injuries.
Sitting vs. Standing at Work: You Can Do Both
Now that you know more about standing vs. sitting at work, you should understand that one isn't better than the other. The key is not to overdo it. Don't sit down too much and avoid prolonged standing.
For more tips and advice on working healthy, check out our other posts. You may also want to browse our other products including our keyboard trays, laptop stands, balance boards, and so on. Don't forget to check out our how-to videos to learn more about our ergonomic products.