In today’s sedentary work culture, the negative effects of prolonged sitting have become a growing concern. This article delves into the benefits of incorporating standing desks at work, read on to discover the positive impact that standing desks can have on both physical well-being and overall job satisfaction.
Burning calories throughout the day
One significant benefit of using a standing desk is the potential to burn more calories compared to sitting. When you stand, the muscles in your back and legs are actively engaged, leading to increased energy expenditure. While the exact number of calories burned may vary depending on factors such as weight and activity level, the average person can burn 100-200 calories an hour just by standing while sitting only burns 60 to 130 calories.
Improves posture
Another advantage of standing desks is their potential to enhance posture. Prolonged sitting can exert pressure on the back and discs, resulting in discomfort in the back, shoulders, and neck. However, by alternating between sitting and standing at a desk, you encourage a healthier posture that gradually becomes second nature. Office desk specialists like Yo-Yo Desk offer a great variety of standing desks to allow you to feel the benefits of improved posture.
Standing prompts a more upright position, which relieves some of the compression on the spine associated with prolonged sitting. By incorporating regular periods of standing into your work routine, you can alleviate strain on your back, promote better alignment, and reduce the likelihood of developing posture-related discomfort.
Boost focus & mood
Standing desks have also been found to have a positive impact on mood and focus. Individuals who incorporate standing desks into their work routine often experience an uplifted mood, feeling more energised, positive, and happier. This improvement in mood can be attributed to the enhanced blood flow and oxygenation that standing promotes, which has been linked to mood enhancement.
These desks can also help reduce mental fatigue and stimulate the thought process, leading to increased focus and overall productivity which is great for turnaround and work quality within your business. Workers who opt for standing desks have reported lower levels of stress and anxiety compared to their seated counterparts.
Better circulation
Another great health benefit is the promotion of better circulation throughout the body, leading to various health benefits. Prolonged sitting has been associated with health issues such as swollen ankles, blood clots, peripheral neuropathy, and varicose veins, all of which can be mitigated by choosing to stand at your desk.
Opting for a standing position facilitates enhanced blood flow to your extremities. To maximise the benefits, it’s crucial to incorporate regular breaks throughout the day for stretching, standing, and walking. These simple movements can help maintain healthy circulation and contribute to overall well-being.
Reduced back pain
Unsurprisingly, these desks have also emerged as a potential solution for reducing back pain by promoting better posture and relieving pressure on the lower spine. By incorporating more standing into your work routine, you may be able to mitigate the common discomfort experienced in the lower back after prolonged periods of sitting.
The positive effects of standing desks on back pain can be attributed to the fact that standing helps decompress the spine, alleviates strain on the neck and lower back, and encourages a more upright posture.