Should I Get A Standing Desk?

We already know that sitting for prolonged periods of time can damage our health. If we were to sit all day long, we’re posed with cardiovascular risks, weakened muscles and impaired circulation. Since a lot of us sit down for work, standing desks have surged in popularity, but there’s a chance they could do more harm than good!

It’s all about finding the right balance between sitting and standing. 

Standing desks offer numerous health benefits by encouraging movement and reducing sedentary behaviour. They can help to alleviate the risks associated with prolonged sitting such as back pain and cardiovascular issues, but standing too long can wreak havoc on your back too!

Some of the risks of standing for prolonged periods include:

• Leg & Back Pain: Increased strain on muscles and joints.

• Varicose Veins: Standing for too long can promote poor blood flow which can cause veins in your legs to swell.

• Fatigue: Physical exhaustion from continuous muscle engagement.

• Joint Compression: Increased pressure on knee and hip joints.

• Postural Issues: Although a lot of us slouch when we sit, standing for prolonged periods of time could potentially worsen posture.

Balance is key – you shouldn’t stand for too long, and you shouldn’t sit for too long! A commonly suggested ratio is the 1:1 approach or 2:1 approach, where for every 1-2 hours of sitting, you should spend 1 hour standing. 

This cycle helps reduce the risks associated with both prolonged sitting and standing, promoting overall wellbeing and comfort.

Prolonged standing and prolonged sitting both negatively impact circulation. 

We need to move to get the blood flowing! Exercise significantly improves blood flow, so it’s imperative that physical activity is part of your daily routine, even if it’s low-impact.

If you work in an office, try deskercise. It allows you to stay seated for prolonged periods safely.  

If you don’t have the luxury of sitting down at work, then you’re more inclined to suffer with aches and pains, especially in your lower back.

If your job requires you to stand for prolonged periods of time then you need to invest in some good footwear. And since too much time spent standing can cause varicose veins to develop, it’s a good idea to invest in compression socks. We recommend FunkySockCo, they have a range of compression stocks in – you guessed it – funky colours and patterns! 

Standing desks are great for those forced to sit at work, but don’t stand for the full 8 hours! Alternate between sitting and standing, as well as short breaks to get some steps in or stretch your legs. 

Finding the right balance ensures productivity and comfort, promoting overall wellbeing in the workplace.