In the ever-evolving world of workspaces, standing desks have emerged as the flag-bearers of both well-being and productivity. Imagine a realm where the battle against back pain and lethargy isn’t waged with medications but through a simple act like standing – that’s standing desk ergonomics.

Okay, that may be a bit of an oversimplification… yet when it comes to our working habits and proactive ergonomics – where prevention takes precedence over treatment – the difference in can be profound. But what are the benefits of standing desk ergonomics, how do you use standing desks properly, and which ones are ‘reputable’? As an enthusiast in this domain, let me give you a deep dive.

And what if you need sitting options as well? Have no fear, there are sitting ergonomic options too, such as ergonomic stools, ergonomic knee chairs, and ergonomic office chairs.

In a rush? Use this outline to jump to your preferred section:

1. The Evolution and History of the Standing Desk
2. Benefits of Standing Desk Ergonomics
3. Is There a Difference Between an ‘Ergonomic’ Standing Desk and a Regular Standing Desk?
4. Proper Standing Desk Ergonomics
5. Standing Desk Ergonomics: Transitioning
6. Selecting the Ideal Standing Desk
7. Conclusion
8. FAQs

The Evolution and History of the Standing Desk

They say necessity is the mother of invention. Sitting, once considered the epitome of office jobs, began showing its ugly side with a plethora of health issues. Standing desks emerged as the solution, blending ergonomics and productivity seamlessly.

Standing desks may seem like a new ‘innovation’ of the 21st century, but in fact the standing desk used to be quite common until the 20th century. Let’s trace back through time and uncover the fascinating journey of the standing desk from antiquity to modern-day innovations.

• Standing Desk Ergonomics:

  Renaissance Era: The brilliance of the Renaissance wasn’t just confined to art and literature. Many believe that eminent figures like Leonardo da Vinci utilized standing desks to pen their thoughts. Interestingly, da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus, a twelve-volume bound set of drawings and writings, shows sketches that could hint at the usage of raised desks or platforms. This era’s standing desks were tailored for writing and sketching, optimized for the angle and comfort of using quills on parchment.

• 18th and 19th Century: Standing desks were the silent witnesses to the creation of some of the most crucial documents in history. For instance, it’s often said that Thomas Jefferson drafted the United States Declaration of Independence on a specially designed standing desk—a tall structure with an adjustable top to suit his height and comfort. This era’s desks often featured intricate craftsmanship, with detailed carvings and built-in compartments. In England, Charles Dickens, the literary genius behind classics like “A Tale of Two Cities”, was known to use a standing desk, affirming its popularity across professions and regions.
• 20th Century: As the industrial revolution took hold and office culture began to emerge, the shift was evident. Sitting desks became the norm, especially as typewriters and then computers became everyday office tools. An intriguing detail is that Ernest Hemingway, the Nobel Prize-winning author, preferred to write while standing, defying the prevalent trend of his time. His standing desk was merely a bookshelf where he kept his typewriter, showing adaptability in the absence of purpose-built furniture.
• 21st Century Revival: Modern standing desks are a fusion of technology and design. An interesting trend of this century is the integration of AI and smart features. Some high-end ergonomic desks now come equipped with sensors that send reminders to adjust postures or take a break. The resurgence of the standing desk in Silicon Valley offices and among remote workers showcases its renewed importance. The introduction of “desk bikes” and under-desk treadmills is a testament to the evolving office culture prioritizing health and multitasking.

History doesn’t just highlight the evolution of an object but mirrors societal values and priorities. The standing desk, from da Vinci’s time to today’s digital age, underscores humanity’s perpetual quest for health, comfort, and productivity.

Benefits of Standing Desk Ergonomics

Standing desks have both benefits for our stereotypical ‘physical’ health and our mental productivity. Here I’ve given a brief overview of these benefits to give you the TLDR (the quick facts without too much of the gory details), but if you want more information, take a look at the linked studies, this Harvard Business Review, or this website dedicated to the benefits of standing.

Standing Desk Ergonomics: Physical advantages

Standing desks serve as a beacon against some of our modern world’s health woes. When we sit for extended periods, our body tends to become a stagnant pond, but standing transforms it into a flowing river.

• Cardiovascular Health:

  Sitting for long durations has often been termed “the new smoking.” Or in a more positive light, standing may actually help you live longer. 

• In 2010, a study involving over 100,000 men and women across the United States, individuals who spent more than six hours a day sitting were found to have a higher likelihood of mortality, primarily due to cardiovascular disease, throughout the 14-year duration of the study, compared to those who sat for less than three hours daily.  Since then additional  studies have showed a significantly higher mortality rate among people who regularly sit for prolonged periods – and the risk is not negated by regular exercise (although the risk is lowered). 
• How could this be the case? There may be multiple reasons, but one possibility could be your circulation – In fact, within 10 minutes, circulation can be negatively impacted from sitting. By standing, you keep your blood flowing smoothly, reducing the risk of heart diseases (and other clots). It’s like ensuring the rivers of our body remain unpolluted and flowing. 

• Reduced Back Pain:

  Back pain is the unsolicited souvenir of desk jobs. Standing desks come as a blessing, providing relief and a straighter posture. Imagine switching from a slouchy bean bag to a firm, supportive chair.

• Amidst this backdrop, scientists and experts have been delving deep into the connection between lower back pain and the use of sit-stand workstations. For example, a meta-analysis study  (which combines information from many different studies to see if they all agree on the same thing, kind of like solving a big puzzle using pieces from smaller puzzles) found that that tools like standing desks have a real shot at making our backs feel better, especially for those of us who put in the hours at work.

• Lower Risk of Weight Gain and Obesity:

  Weight gain results from burning fewer calories than we consume. Standing burns more calories than sitting, so the more you stand, the more calories you burn, which can lead to weight loss and prevent weight gain. Think of it as opting for stairs over elevators regularly. 

Standing Desk Ergonomics: Mental and productivity gains

Physical benefits aside, standing desks have a profound impact on our mental well-being and efficiency.

• Energy Boost:

  Ever noticed the spike in energy after a brisk walk? Standing desks replicate that on a smaller scale throughout the day. It’s like having tiny cups of coffee without the caffeine jitters.

  How can standing do this? Standing up triggers increased blood flow, nutrients, and oxygen supply to various parts of the brain. Studies have suggested that regular movement throughout the day have the most brain-enhancing benefit, especially this act of shifting from sitting to standing. With a standing desk – especially an adjustable desk that can go from sitting to standing – you increase the urge to fidget, move, and, of course, time standing.

• Enhanced Mood and Stress Reduction:

  A flowing river is generally calmer than a turbulent sea. Standing and moving a bit more often can reduce stress and have a positive impact on your mood. Remember the last time you paced around during a tense phone call? A study even found that sitting for 6+ hours during the workday puts you at a higher risk for anxiety and depression. Improved blood circulation also leads to fewer occurrences of headaches, reducing the chances of them lowering your mood and interrupting your workday.

• Increased Productivity:

  With reduced fatigue, heightened alertness, and an enhanced mood, tasks are completed faster and with greater accuracy. Imagine sharpening a pencil; the sharper it is, the better it writes.

• Business Insider even conducted its own investigation to test varying claims that standing desks enhance productivity. Working with a firm called The Draugiem Group, they utilized a self-developed app called DeskTime to track both standing and sitting time of seven participants over a week, calculating productivity as the ratio of time spent working on productive applications to total working time. Their study revealed that standing desks can increase productivity by up to 10%, and found the standing desks were associated with benefits like heightened energy levels, improved concentration, and fewer headaches.

Is There a Difference Between an ‘Ergonomic’ Standing Desk and a non-ergonomic Standing Desk?

At first glance, they might seem similar, but it’s the details that make the ergonomic variant a cut above. Think of ‘ergonomic’ standing desks as a subcategory of standing desks. An ergonomic standing desk is not necessarily just a fancy term to say standing desks with ‘customizability’ (although they should be customizable) – a better way to describe it is ergonomic standing desks make sure to encompass design principles that promote health, well-being, and productivity. Below are some characteristics that make a standing desk ‘ergonomic’:

• Height Adjustability: While a regular standing desk may have a fixed height, ergonomic ones often come with easy height adjustability. This means whether you’re 5’3″ or 6’2″, you can customize the desk height to perfectly match your standing posture. Think of it like having a car seat that you can adjust to find the perfect driving position.

• Desk Depth and Width: Ergonomic desks often have a more generous depth allowing for greater distance between the user and the screen, reducing eye strain. They also may offer more width to accommodate multiple monitors or other tools, similar to having a spacious workbench versus a narrow table.

• Tilt Features: Some ergonomic desks provide a tilting platform for keyboards. By allowing a slight tilt, it ensures that your wrists remain in a natural, neutral position, reducing the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s the difference between holding a heavy tray with your wrists bent versus holding it with straight wrists.

• Cable Management: Ergonomic standing desks often have cable management solutions. This means no more tripping over or getting tangled in cords. It’s akin to the difference between having all your gadget cables in a messy pile versus neatly organized using cable ties.

• Integrated Tech: Some high-end ergonomic standing desks come with features like built-in touchpads or even health tracking monitors that notify you when to switch positions. It’s like upgrading from a basic phone to a smartphone with all the bells and whistles.

In essence, while both types serve the purpose of letting you stand, an ergonomic standing desk is like a tailor-made suit, fitting you perfectly, while a regular one might feel more off-the-rack. Ergonomic standing desks make sure your workspace aligns with you, not the other way around.

Proper Standing Desk Ergonomics

• Optimal monitor placement: Ensure your monitor stands at arm’s length and is aligned to your eye level. Think of it like adjusting a rearview mirror – it should give a clear view without straining.

• Importance of desk height and posture: Your desk height should allow your elbows to form a 90-degree angle. Imagine a puppet string pulling you upright from the top of your head – that’s the posture to aim for.

• Footwear and fatigue considerations: Your feet are the foundation. Wearing supportive shoes is crucial. It’s like wearing hiking boots on rocky terrains – ensuring grip and comfort.

Standing Desk Ergonomics: Transitioning

Entering the world of standing desks can be a game-changer, but the transition should be done mindfully. You can’t just jump from sitting all day to standing without a strategy; your body requires time to adapt. Let’s explore the best methods to make this switch as smooth as silk.

Start Slow:

Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Begin by standing for just 20-30 minutes at a stretch. Gradually increase this time as your body gets acclimated. It’s just like starting a new fitness routine; you wouldn’t begin by running a marathon on your first day, right?

Footwear Matters:

You’re picturing standing in stilettos or tight dress shoes for hours, let’s rethink that. Invest in comfortable, supportive footwear. Consider shoes with cushioned insoles or even orthotics, which can help distribute weight evenly and alleviate potential foot discomfort. Think of it as laying the foundation (literally) for your standing desk journey.

Use an Anti-Fatigue Mat:

Stand on any kitchen’s soft mat, and you’ll instantly notice the difference. Anti-fatigue mats are designed to reduce the stress on your legs and feet. They’re cushioned and promote subtle movements in leg muscles, enhancing blood flow and reducing fatigue. It’s like standing on a cloud, making the shift to standing more pleasant.

Alternate Between Sitting and Standing:

It’s essential to strike a balance. The key isn’t to replace sitting entirely but to find a happy medium. Many ergonomic desks offer adjustable heights, enabling you to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. Just as in a symphony, where the harmony of different instruments creates magic, alternating postures can help maintain energy and focus.

Listen to Your Body:

While embracing the standing desk culture, tune in to your body’s signals. If you’re feeling fatigued or experiencing discomfort, it’s okay to sit or adjust your standing posture. Your body is the best guide on this journey; it’ll let you know what feels right and when to make tweaks.

Common complaints and solutions:

Foot or lower back pain might crop up. But like a thorn in a bed of roses, these can be addressed – proper shoes, ergonomic mats, and regular movement are the answers.

Incorporating these suggestions will not only make the transition smoother but will ensure that the shift to a standing desk is a sustainable and beneficial choice in the long run. Remember, the aim is improved health and productivity, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right.

Standing Desk Ergonomics & Selecting the Ideal Desk

When it comes to selecting the perfect standing desk, you’re not just choosing a piece of furniture. You’re making a long-term investment in your health, posture, and productivity. With countless options in the market, it might seem overwhelming to pick one, but by keeping some key criteria in mind and knowing about some top brands, you can make a more informed choice.

• Adjustability: The height of the desk should be easily adjustable to your specific needs. You should be able to effortlessly shift between sitting and standing. Some desks come with manual cranks, while others boast electric lifts. While electric versions are quicker, they tend to be pricier. Decide what’s best for your budget and convenience.
• Sturdiness: A shaky desk can be a big annoyance, and worse, a risk. Make sure the desk has a robust frame and can hold the weight of your computer, multiple monitors if you have them, and other essentials without wobbling.
• Surface Area: Depending on your work, you may need space for multiple monitors, a drawing pad, books, or writing space. Ensure the desk surface accommodates your needs.
• Cable Management: Look for desks that offer solutions to keep your cords tidy. This might include holes for cables, clips, or under-desk trays.
• Aesthetics: You’re likely going to be using this desk every day, so pick something that you find visually appealing and matches your workspace’s vibe.
• Price: Set a budget beforehand. While it’s essential to invest in quality, there are standing desks available in various price ranges. Be sure to check reviews and ensure you’re getting value for your money.

Reputable Brands for Standing Desk Ergonomics:

• Varidesk: Known for high-quality materials and excellent durability, Varidesk also offers a wide range of adjustable height solutions.
• Fully Jarvis: Recognized for its stability and range of height adjustability. Its bamboo top variant is especially popular for those who prefer a natural look.
• Uplift Desk: Offers a combination of solid engineering with a vast array of customization options. You can pick your material, finish, and even add accessories like desk drawers or monitor arms.
• Steelcase: An industry giant, Steelcase’s standing desks are on the pricier side, but their design, durability, and ergonomic focus are top-notch.
• IKEA Bekant: For those on a tighter budget, IKEA’s Bekant series offers electric height adjustability and a clean, minimalist design.

Additional Features: Some brands offer features like built-in wireless charging, under-desk treadmill compatibility, and memory settings for height preferences. Depending on your needs, these might be worth the extra investment.

Remember, the ideal standing desk should cater to your unique needs, ensuring that you’re comfortable, productive, and healthy. It’s worth the time to research, read user reviews, and even test out a few in-store if possible. 

Conclusion on Standing Desk Ergonomics

The standing desk is not just a piece of furniture; it’s a lifestyle choice, a step towards health, and a nod to our ancestors who knew the value of being on their feet.

Of course, we all have unique needs and sometimes we just need to sit. You can still take care of your body with ergonomic choices too. Check out ergonomic stools, ergonomic knee chairs, and ergonomic office chairs.

Standing Desk Ergonomics: FAQs

• How often should I switch between sitting and standing?

  Balance is key. Picture it like a diet – you wouldn’t eat only one kind of food all day. Stand for 15-30 minutes every hour.

• Are standing desks suitable for everyone?

  Mostly, yes, but it’s like shoes – one size doesn’t fit all. Consult a doctor if you have specific health concerns.

• Do standing desks help with weight loss?

  Standing does burn more calories than sitting. Think of it as walking versus lying down.

• How do I ensure my desk setup is ergonomically right?

  Seek guidance, maybe from an office ergonomics expert. It’s like getting a fitness trainer for workouts.

• Can children use standing desks?

  Absolutely! Let’s foster healthy habits early on, allowing them to grow into strong, health-aware adults.