The Benefits Of A Standing Desk In The Workplace

Updated: April 21, 2022

We all know the benefits of standing in the workplace, but are you taking advantage of them? The use of standing desks in the workspace is becoming more popular, and there has been an ongoing debate on whether they really help promote a healthier lifestyle among office workers.

Although many studies have been conducted, there is still no definitive evidence that standing is more beneficial to health than sitting. However, many studies point out that sitting for long hours can be detrimental to health and that it can be linked to obesity, heart disease, and a shorter life. Studies conducted on standing point out the benefits it has on health, productivity and posture.

So, What Are The Benefits?

Lower risk of weight gain and obesity

In a 2016 survey, more than 44% of employees asked said they had gained weight in their current jobs. Fifty-three percent of those felt that sitting at their desks most of the day contributed to this weight gain.

Standing burns an additional 50 calories per hour compared to sitting. One study also said that standing helps reactivate a fat-burning enzyme in the body called LPL, which becomes inactive when sitting down for long hours.

In addition, standing can act as a good subtle workout because it engages your core muscles and glutes. Adding a few movements, such as twisting and stretching, can help burn more calories and increase your endurance and power.

Lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels

Several studies suggest that standing helps in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which can lead to a healthier heart.

An article from the Harvard Medical School also recommended standing more at the office, including a suggestion to have “standing meetings”. While this idea has yet to gain traction, it's an interesting idea, not least for the possibility that it could make meetings much more concise, shorter and even more productive.

Better blood circulation and increased productivity

Standing helps improve blood circulation that can lead to overall better body function.

Better blood circulation means more oxygen is being delivered to the brain, increasing brain function. This allows you to stay sharper and more focused on your tasks. The subtle workout you get from standing also increases your energy, helping you concentrate better on your tasks.

Better posture

Multiple studies suggest that standing can help alleviate back pain, which is one of the greatest complaints of office workers. Standing can help restore the “S” shape of your spine and prevents you from craning your neck.

A 2011 study showed that even an hour of standing will help relieve the stress on your spine brought about by sitting all day.

Standing may not ultimately be the answer to breaking a sedentary, sit-all-day-at-work lifestyle, but it somewhat helps promote a more active lifestyle. Taking regular breaks from sitting at your desk and just standing and stretching can do wonders for your body.

How can I increase my standing time at work?

There are many ways that you can increase your standing time at work. One way is to set a timer to remind you to stand every 20 or 30 minutes. If you have a standing desk, use it as often as possible. When you’re not at your desk, stand up and move around as often as you can. Take the stairs instead of the elevator and walk to co-workers’ desks instead of sending an email. Every little bit helps!

Should I use a standing desk while working?

Working at a standing desk can allow you to take advantage of the benefits of sitting and standing throughout your workday. And it definitely needs to be considered when organising a new or existing office layout. It enables you to be more relaxed and focused while sitting as well as reaping the benefits mentioned earlier if you raise the desk. It is a great combination that especially helps workers who are typically under tight time constraints and don't have as much time to move around throughout the day. This way you can waste stay healthy throughout the day even when you have large amounts of work to get through. Another great reason to implement standing desks in an office space if you're an employer is that they are much more sought after by employees. A study that took place in 2015 actually found that workers felt more alert and energetic while using standing desks at work. This is definitely a large driving factor for employees and can help businesses retain staff members as well as incentivize new people as well.

In conclusion, there are many benefits to standing at work. Standing helps improve blood circulation, burn more calories, and can help alleviate back pain. You can increase your standing time at work by setting a timer to remind you to stand every 20 or 30 minutes, using a standing desk as often as possible, and walking around when you’re not at your desk. You should use a standing desk while working because it enables you to be more relaxed and focused while sitting as well as reaping the benefits of standing. Using a standing desk is especially helpful for workers who are typically under tight time constraints and don't have as much time to move around throughout the day.

Check Out Topaz

Topaz Furniture offers the most reliable sit-stand desks available on the market. From manual to electric standing desks, we make sure that we have something that will fit every business or establishment's requirement. Try our new Saturn range, where quality is not compromised for price - featuring a 10 Year Warranty!

Call us on 1300 668 566 and order your own sit-stand desk. For more information, fill out our enquiry form here.