Your desk job is hazardous to your health. If you spend most of your time sitting at your desk working on a computer, you may be shortening your life. According to a recent article in the New York Times, sitting for long periods of time increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, various cancers, and premature death, regardless of how much you exercise. So what can you do if you have a desk job and have to sit all day? According to an article in Men’s Health magazine, stand-up desks are the best option. Standing more is the healthiest change most desk workers can make. Stand-up desks are becoming more common in workplaces, and those who use them report fewer aches and pains. The good news is that transitioning to a stand-up desk doesn’t have to be expensive. At Palo Alto Software, almost half of our team has raised their desks using various methods, from makeshift arrangements of office items to adjustable height desks. So how do you choose the best solution for you? Let’s consider the pros and cons of each option. One popular option is the "McGyver" style setup.
Sean is at his makeshift work station. Here are the reasons why it might be a good option for you:
1. Cheap: You can create this setup using boxes and other items you already have in the office.
2. Fast: There is no need to wait for anything to be delivered. You can set it up quickly without leaving the office.
3. Temporary: If you want to switch back to a sitting desk or change your workspace, it is easy to undo the setup.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider:
1. Not pretty: As you can see in the photo, it may not be aesthetically pleasing.
2. Limited flexibility: If you prefer to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day, it may not be very convenient to constantly rearrange the boxes and crates supporting your hardware.
3. Potential instability: Stacked items have a tendency to topple, so be careful and ensure stability.
Consider these factors when deciding whether this setup is right for you.
Desi works at her raised counter. Here are some benefits of using a raised counter:
– It’s easy. If you already use cubicle walls and fixed counters, raising them takes just a few minutes.
– The entire work surface is raised. So your coffee cup is on the same level as your mouse.
– It looks better than the McGyver.
To fully utilize a raised counter, you’ll need a raised chair. However, keep in mind that:
– One size doesn’t fit all. A desk that’s perfect for one person might not be suitable for another. Adjust the desk’s height accordingly if employees move around.
Consider investing in adjustable height desks for added flexibility.
At a co-worker’s adjustable desk:
- They’re adjustable, allowing you to easily raise or lower them depending on whether you prefer sitting or standing.
- Anyone can work at any space. Adjustable desks can be tailored to the perfect height for any employee.
- They’re portable. If you move your workspace, you can bring your desk along.
- They look cool. Adjustable height desks are stylish and demonstrate your commitment to an ergonomically friendly lifestyle.
- They’re not cheap. A basic set-up can be as expensive as a raised chair.
- They might not work for every hardware arrangement. Additional accessories may be required for situations involving large or multiple monitors.
Other considerations:
When transitioning from standing to sitting, do it gradually. Start with 15 minutes of standing, followed by a half hour or more of sitting, and gradually increase the amount of time spent standing.
To determine the best stand-to-sit ratio for you, experiment with different ratios.
Initially, consider using a temporary setup to test standing before investing in a more expensive option. It’s better to set up a few boxes and props than to spend money on a setup you can’t work with.
Take into account the shoes you wear while standing. High heels or dress shoes may not be suitable for prolonged standing. Consider wearing cross trainers or taking off your stylish shoes during the standing portions of your day.
Additionally, use a fatigue-reducing mat to reduce leg and lower back discomfort associated with prolonged standing.
If you’ve already transitioned to a standing desk, how does your desk look now? What are the pros and cons of raised desks in your opinion?
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I’m Andrew Brooks, a seasoned finance consultant from the USA and the mind behind phonenumber247.com.
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