Nowadays, there are tons of alternatives to a traditional sitting desk, including standing desks.
Standing desks are probably the most popular alternative desk option, and it’s easy to see why. Many workers cite increased productivity, higher energy levels, less back pain, and other benefits as concrete proof that standing desks work.
However, it’s important to understand the potential risks and downsides of a standing desk before making the switch (and investing in a new setup).
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using a standing desk.
Despite some sensational news stories that compare sitting to the next health apocalypse, there isn’t much scientific evidence that stand-up desks improve overall health.
Regardless of the science, you can’t deny the success stories that standing desk advocates have shared. The proof is in how they feel:
Truthfully, the stand-up desk trend does have its downfalls. Many people that have made the switch love it, but there are some disadvantages to be aware of:
If you still want to give standing a try, there are lots of ways to mitigate some of the most common issues that workers have with standing desks.
As mentioned above, don’t work from one static position for hours on end. Switch it up as much as you can, and remember to take breaks to walk around, stretch, and get your blood moving.
You can also invest in a cushioned mat to stand on, or wear supportive shoes with comfy insoles.
In the past, the main way to snag a stand-up desk was to DIY it and hope that your carpentry skills were up to par. That’s certainly still an option, but there are a variety of companies that manufacture standing desks these days.
New models are being made available all the time, so do your research before buying a standing desk. Retailers like Home Depot and Ikea often have great deals on Black Friday and other holidays, so shop around to find the best deal. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are also great places to look.
If you’re an employee, there’s no harm in asking if your employer will cover the cost of a standing desk (or other office essentials that help you do more of your best work).
Even if you work from home, it’s still possible to convince your employer to spring for a better office setup. For more information on how to ask for a virtual office allowance, check out this article from our blog archives.
If you aren’t quite ready to make the move to a standing desk, at least make sure that you’re staying active throughout the workday.
MacGyvering a stand-up desk at your current office might be a bit tricky, but anyone can squeeze bursts of activity into their day.