Do you think you are sitting too much? The work at home revolution created by COVID has actually increased the use of standing desks. You may even have one yourself. According to a report from the Society for Human Resource Management, standing desks are the fastest-growing employee benefit in US workplaces, which may now largely be in your home. Research has shown that sitting for long periods of time damages your health, even if you get plenty of exercise when you aren’t sitting.
A standing desk is quite simply an arrangement of furniture that allows you to stand up while you work at your desk. It can be as simple and inexpensive as placing your computer monitor on top of a box or a stack of books, or it can be as elaborate and pricey as a customized platform that adjusts height with the push of a button. An automatic adjustable-height desks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000. Depending on what bells and whistles you are interested in.
Companies that sell standing desks claim they provide health benefits, including weight loss, reduced back pain, improved mental health, lower blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and greater life expectancy.
According to a study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, it’s not clear that standing instead of sitting at a desk all day burns a significant number of calories. The study found that standing burned 88 calories an hour, not much more than the 80 calories an hour burned while sitting. Walking burned 210 calories an hour.
One thing many studies have been clear about is that long hours of sitting are linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, some types of cancer, and shorter life. It makes sense that standing would counteract these risks.
It is not clear yet if it’s the total amount that you sit or how frequently you get up and move around that is related to disease risk. One thing is clear, cutting down on the time you spend sitting is good for your health. Movement is essential for a good health.
Studies have shown that after eating, blood sugar returns to normal faster in people who have spent more time standing than sitting that day. Some people report that using standing desks has helped them with shoulder and back pain.
Others report that standing for long periods of time causes back, leg, or foot pain, instead of relieving it. It is suggested by experts that if you do try a standing desk, you start slowly, stand for just 30 minutes to an hour a day and then increase your standing gradually.
One thing we do know whether you sit at a desk all day or use a standing desk, it is very important to take frequent walking breaks, this can lead to better health and longevity.
The information in our blog is not intended to be used as medical advice. Please contact us if you would like to schedule an appointment or have questions. 386•761•0520
