Because I write a lot and obviously, sit with my eyes glued to a computer screen, an opportunity of having a sit-stand desk seems interesting. But apparently, there are so many of sit-stand solutions that it’s hard to figure out which one to get.
I would probably give up on the research and just keep on sitting if it wasn’t for a client who demanded the sit-stand desk. Because her back really hurt she wanted the solution right away.
Why sit-stand desk is a must for someone who is dealing with computer work
This kind of call I get quite often and it instantly resonates with me. An inspiring, healthy home workspace can either make your day into a miserable, tiresome drag or instantly lift you up.
Because if you aren’t comfortable at your workspace, sooner or later your body will be crying for help and you will be as sad as poor old Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh. So, to help you to avoid this grim fate I’m prepared to guide you in your journey of figuring out a sit-stand desk for starters.
Healthy Basics
Are you sitting at your desk all day? Don’t! I was that woman who spent countless hours at my desk consumed with my design work, totally absorbed. That was until my lower back protested. One day I was standing in the middle of the living room screaming my head off from excruciating pain. One epidural later I learned my lesson. Since that time I made some changes and always encourage my clients to do the same.
You need a combination of good body positioning and sit-move routine
Firstly, get your correct dimensions to adjust your desk and chair. Above is a chart from The Human Solution site, a company that helps calculate ideal configurations for the location of your desk, chair, and keyboard. It takes only a minute to learn your own by putting in your height. Click here to calculate.
A healthy balance between sitting, moving and standing
It’s nothing new that sitting for a long time is bad for you. No wonder Thomas Jefferson, Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, and Thomas Wolfe worked standing for some part of the day. Moreover, most companies like AOL, Google, Twitter, Facebook and hundreds of others are required to provide sit-stand options.
Many studies show that sitting for a long time causes health problems.
In his book GET UP! Dr. James Levine talks about potential health issues connected to sitting for too long. That’s enough for me to be convinced of the merits of standing for at least part of the day. It’s proven that you’ll get less of the 3 o’clock slump, and you’ll avoid the dreaded food coma. As a result, your mind won’t drift, your eyes won’t droop, and you can get through your day without experiencing an energy roller coaster.
You will be more productive if you get into a habit of moving around every so often. If you’re sitting right now while reading this, please get up and move around. Feels better? I thought so. You are not designed to go through the day, nonstop, without resting.
Work in 90-10 rhythm
Some productivity researchers suggest working in a 90-10 rhythm. Ninety minutes of highly-focused work, ten minutes of rest. This mimics your natural rhythm — a natural cycle of effort-rest-effort-rest that your body is already doing while you sleep and when you’re awake, even though you’re not aware it’s happening. Find whatever kind of flow feels good for you, whether it’s ninety minutes of work and a ten-minute pleasure break, or three hours of playtime followed by two hours of work, or whatever you want.
Finally, here are some of the examples of Sit-stand desks solutions:
1. The UP Track Sit/Stand Desk by Stand Steady.
2. Crank Adjustable Height Standing Desk by Stand Up Desks Store.
3. Cardboard Sit- Stand Desk by Fastcoexist.com
4. Standing desk solution using IKEA products: 1. Vika Amon tabletop, 2) Vika Byske legs, 3) Capita bracket; 4) Lack wall shelf.
Focal Locus Chair and Desk. Locus collection. Giving you the support you need to take on any task with confidence and comfort. Provides a stabilized base and opens your hips at a 135-degree angle.-Pivoting seat leg works with your body – empowering you to move effortlessly all day long.-Keeps you energized – inspired and in the zone.
Below are some of the main features of Standing Desks:
• Adjustable height- you can adjust your preferred height for your desired eye level.
• Fingerprint-resistant surface- no need to wipe it down every time you work at the desk. If you have kids that will use it, this one is golden.
• A programmable keypad controls the leg system.
• Non-glare top surface- you will avoid headaches associated with glare.
• Rear compartments with a place for rechargeable electronics- so that the desk’s top surface can remain clear.
• Micro-etched glass top that does not require a mouse pad- so you can enjoy a clutter-free surface.
• Magnetic panels conceal cords and wires, which is a big plus to me, I hate clutter.
• Easy, tool-free installation- my favorite!
Tell me, what are your challenges when telecommuting or working remotely?
P.S. Need more inspiration to get up? Beyonce- Dance for You.
Not Beyonce fan? Michael Jackson- Workin’ Day and Night.
Please post your questions here below. I’ll be happy to help you!
