Figuring out how to get the maximum benefit from your standing desk takes a bit of effort. It’s not that the furniture is so complicated that you’ll need a special class in how to use standing desk workstations. It’s more that each person’s body and work day are different. Finding the best way to use a standing desk takes a bit of fine tuning, but that’s the best way to ensure an ongoing standing desk habit.
Here are a few tried-and-true tips to increase the odds that you’ll be loving your standing desk for the long haul.
A height adjustable pneumatic standing desk can be positively transforming. But remember: it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Following these steps helps you get the maximum benefit from your standing desk, and helps you keep enjoying your standing desk for the long term.
Make sure it’s properly adjusted.
To find the proper standing height, stand with your feet shoulder width apart, rest your arms at your sides comfortably, and position your hands at or just below the height of your elbow. As you get used to your workstation, try moving it up or down a fraction of an inch to see if you like it better.
Wear good shoes
Not amazing high heels or fashionable loafers, but supportive, comfortable shoes. Just as an ergonomic office chair creates the foundation you need for sitting, a good pair of shoes is a must for comfortable standing.
Only stand for so long
Although it may be tempting to stand all day long to get the maximum benefit from your height adjustable standing desk…that’s not how you get the maximum benefit. Too much standing actually increases the chance of burn-out, and you may even develop problems associated with standing. It’s best to start slow, like 10 minutes a day, and then work your way up.
Prevent fatigue
Use an anti-fatigue mat, or shift your weight from one foot to the other. You can even use a small footrest to keep one foot elevated. And by all means, do stretches like shoulder stretches, side lunges, desk pushups, or calf raises as you change from one position to the other.
Use a timer to remind yourself to alternate standing and sitting
Researchers at Texas A&M found that people who used computer-based reminders increased their daily standing transitions a whopping 229%.
Move when you’re standing
Listening to music may inspire you to move your hips, arms, and neck a little. Shifting your weight even slightly helps take the strain off during longer standing sessions.
Be aware of posture
Keep your neck tall and your shoulders relaxed. Don’t tilt your chin up or down – just allow it to remain neutral. And don’t strain your spine by leaning backwards or slouching forward. If you can’t tell whether your back is straight, a rule of thumb is to align your ears over your shoulders.
