The Benefits of Standing: How to Use a Standing Desk Properly

Based on a survey done by Ergotron, 70-percent of American workers claim they “hate sitting”, yet most of them do it for 8 hours each day—at minimum.

Thankfully, most are finding different ways to implement more standing and movement on a daily basis. One of the most popular methods is by installing a standing desk at their work station.
But how should you set up your standing desk? What are the benefits of standing? Are there any “no-no’s” when using a standing desk? We cover all of that below!

How to Set Up Your Standing Desk

Standing desks can be a tremendous way to mix up your work day. That said, you’ll want to make sure you have everything set up in a way that encourages better posture.

Good posture while standing is to keep your head, shoulders, and torso in a straight line. This will increase the blood flow throughout your body!

To support this posture, elevate your monitor so that your eyes are level with the middle of the screen. Keep the keyboard within reach while sitting at a 90º angle.

For those of you that primarily use a laptop, hook it up to a wireless keyboard and mouse—so that you can avoid hunching over to type.

Avoid leaning to one side while you stand at your desk. That can limit blood flow and cause unnecessary stress to your hips, lower back, and neck.

To learn more about the dos and don’ts of better posture, download our FREE “How to Improve Posture While Working” e-book through the embedded link!

The Benefits of Standing

As if breaking the routine wasn’t enough incentive to stand more, here are a few more of the benefits of standing you’ll receive when you prioritize it.

More Energy

Blood flow is key for maintaining consistent energy. While most people are quick to reach for another cup of coffee, caffeine levels aren’t the issue.

Sitting at a desk cuts off the circulation. It creates a slouched spine, which will limit how much blood is coursing through your veins.

While standing, your body can pump as much blood as needed to the brain, legs, and torso, giving you more pep in your step!

Better Brain Cognition

There are a number of distractions at the office, but the primary reason you find it hard to focus is likely related to brain fog.

The poor posture you have while sitting will create a spike in cortisol (the stress hormone) in your brain. That makes it hard to remember things, focus, and process things on the fly.

Standing will encourage better posture, helping your brain remain active. Your boss and colleagues will also notice you’re in a better mood!

Burn More Calories

Sometimes it’s the small things that kill your weight loss goals. Sitting for 8 hours a day certainly doesn’t support your wish to lose a few pounds.

Studies have shown that standing burns 0.15 calories per minute than sitting. To put that into perspective, if you chose to stand for 5 hours you’d otherwise be sitting, you would burn 45 more calories—that adds up quick!

Get Optimal Posture for Standing at Work

Standing desks are a start, but they won’t help you receive any of the benefits of standing until you receive better posture.

Be sure to book an appointment with us online. We’ll analyze your current posture and routines, then create a custom plan to get you back on track!

For any other inquiries you might have, you can call us directly at 317-575-1115 and we’ll be delighted to help you further!
-Dr Hillary Hushower