Ready to Switch to a Standing Desk? Here’s What You Need to Know
Posted by Human Solution on Feb 24th 2017
Over the last 70 years, as the majority of American jobs have moved out of the factory, off the farm, and into the office, the life of a worker has become more and more sedentary. We spend more time than ever sitting - sitting in the car, sitting on the couch, and, most of all, sitting 8-10 hours per day at work. Enter the standing desk. This invention has been taking the world by storm. But what is a standing desk? Do you really need one? And which one should you get? We've covered the topic extensively on our blog, so here's a selection of our best posts, ones that will tell you everything you need to know before you make the leap into a newer, healthier world.
Why Do I Need a Height-Adjustable Desk?
The answer to this one is simple: because sitting all day is a disastrous to your health! How? Why? We've got some answers for you:
- Your Car, Office Chair, and Couch are Conspiring to Kill You. Just a Heads Up.
- Burn 50 More Calories an Hour Just By Standing While You Work
The health contrast is startling. Sitting all day can lead to diabetes, blood clotting, increased obesity, and even cancer. On the other hand, standing for even a couple of hours while you work will help you burn more calories, decrease the risk of long-term health issues, and lead to a more productive workday.
- Infographic: How Much We Sit, How Much We Hate It, and What Can Be Done About It
- Study: Sitting Less Adds Years To Your Life
If you're a more visual person, we found a great infographic to help you visualize just how devastating a lifetime of sitting can be. And you don't have to take our word for it. The science is consistent and clear: a standing desk is crucial for long-term health and short-term happiness.
Oh, and one last point before we move on. After reading all that stuff about how dangerous sitting all day can be, I'm sure you want to stand and stand and stand. But the important thing to remember is that the key is activity, you need to move around all day. Standing all day isn't really that much better than sitting all day. That's we recommend a sit-stand desk, that will let you change positions during your work day.
All right, I need a standing desk! What now?
So now that you're aware of the issues that come with sitting all day, the next step is to upgrade to an adjustable height desk! But which one to pick? Well, the answer is clear. Whether you care about performance, stability, sturdiness, weight capacity, longevity, or price, the best standing desk on the market is the UPLIFT 900.
One common concern people have in switching to a sit-stand desk is whether to pick an electric one or one that is operated by a crank or pneumatic counterbalance. To us, the answer is clear: Electric is the way to go.
Look, you may think I'm biased. And, if I'm being honest, I probably am. I'm writing this blog post while standing at my UPLIFT 900 right now. But you don't have to take my word for it. Respected publications like Lifehacker, the LA Times, and KK Cool Tools have all confirmed: UPLIFT is the way to go.
- Lifehacker Names UpLift 900 as One of ‘Five Best Standing Desks’
- The UpLift 900 Standing Desk: Now Recommended by the LA Times
- Praise for the UpLift 900 Just Keeps Rolling In
UPLIFT is the ultimate sit-stand desk solution because its so versatile. No matter what kind of set-up you need, there's an UPLIFT desk for you. And, if nothing else seems to work, we can always make something customized for you!
- Stand in Style with an UpLift Solid Wood Desk
- Customers Get Creative with Desktops on DIY Standing Desks
- Make a Statement with a Custom Height Adjustable Standing Desk
What About Treadmill Desks?
What if standing part of your day isn't enough activity? That's where the treadmill desk comes in!
Treadmill desks are easy to use, help burn calories, and can even improve productivity and focus. Still, it's a big transition for people to make and they can have some concerns going in. These blog posts will help explain the benefits and assuage your fears!
So which treadmill desk should you get? If you've read this far, the answer will not surprise you. UPLIFT, of course!
So hopefully this primer gives you a good place to start. Still have questions? We're happy to answer them! Just give us a call at 1-800-531-3746 or visit TheHumanSolution.com to talk to one of our ergonomics experts! We'll have you standing in no time!