With all the changes that occurred in the workplace over the last decade and especially the last few years, you may have heard the phrase “sitting is the new smoking.” This rings true because it is something a large majority of the population is doing and we aren’t all aware of its negative impacts.
Key Benefits of Using a Standing Desk
Standing desks are a great way to combat this new epidemic of sitting and are a must-have for any job or activity that requires extended periods of time on the computer. They allow us to spend more of our day in a standing position which is much less harmful to the body compared to sitting.
The benefits of using a standing desk are:
- Better posture
- Decreased pain and tension in the body
- Improved circulation
- Increased energy
- More calories burned
Mastering the Art of Using a Standing Desk: The 20-80-2 Rule
To optimize these benefits the standing desk must be used correctly, it’s not just about switching from sitting all day to standing all day as that could be too fatiguing for the body. A common recommendation is something called the 20-80-2 rule, where you sit for 20 minutes, stand for 8 minutes, then move around for 2 minutes.
Gradual Transitioning: Balancing Sitting and Standing Time
The 20-80-2 rule is a wonderful place to start when getting acquainted with using a standing desk. It doesn’t overwhelm the body with a drastic change and incorporates a 2-minute break every half hour which is a huge piece of keeping our body feeling good and mind able to focus.
Once you feel comfortable with the 20-8-2 schedule, you can slowly even out the sitting and standing time eventually reaching 14-14-2. If changing positions this frequently is not possible with your work you can sit for 28 minutes, take a quick movement break then stand for 28 minutes, and so on.
Standing Desk Options
Best Budget Option: Azonanor Standing Desk
Best Electric Option: UPLIFT Standing Desk
Best Manual Option: VIVO Manual Height Adjustable Desk
Best Option for Small Spaces: SIDUCAL Mobile Standing Desk
Best Option with Drawers: QZMDSM Standing Desk
Best Option for Accessories: FEZIBO L Shaped Electric Standing Desk
Best Standing Desk Converter Option: SHW Standing Desk Converter
Final Words
As a professional, I cannot recommend using a standing desk enough. It is a worthy investment for how you feel right now, how productive you are, and your health in the long term. Whichever standing desk you choose for yourself, know it’s a move towards a better and healthier you.
Written by Dr. Kyle Gill, Chiropractor
Dr. Kyle is a highly skilled chiropractor at Body Science Therapy in Mississauga with a deep understanding of how sitting can impact the body. He helps people struggling with pain and dysfunction to achieve their unique goals through world-class hands-on therapy and rehabilitation movements like stretches, mobility and strengthening.
He also knows it’s imperative to educate you on how your current habits and lifestyle have led to what you’re dealing with, and what you can change to ensure you remain healthy in the long term. If you’d like to begin you’re healing journey with Dr. Kyle you can call (905) 997-2639 or visit bodysciencetherapy.com for more information.
