How To Make Your Desk A Standing Desk

As someone who spends most of the day sitting at a desk, I was starting to feel the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. That’s when I decided to switch to a standing desk. Not only did it improve my posture and alleviate back pain, but it also helped me stay alert and focused throughout the day. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your desk a standing desk.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Measure Your Desk

The first thing you need to do is measure your desk to ensure that it’s the right height for you to stand comfortably. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle and your wrists should be straight when you type.

2. Get a Standing Desk Converter

If you don’t want to invest in a new desk, a standing desk converter is a great option. It sits on top of your current desk and can be adjusted to the desired height. Some popular options include the Varidesk and Flexispot.

3. Adjust Your Monitor

Once you’ve set up your standing desk, it’s important to adjust your monitor to the right height. The top of your monitor should be at or slightly below eye level to prevent neck strain.

4. Invest in a Comfortable Mat

Standing on a hard surface for long periods of time can be tough on your feet and joints. Invest in a comfortable mat, like the Imprint CumulusPRO, to reduce fatigue and improve comfort.

5. Take Breaks

While standing is better than sitting, it’s still important to take breaks and move around. Set a timer to remind yourself to take a break every hour and stretch or walk around for a few minutes.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Use a stability ball instead of a chair for added core engagement.

2. Keep a pair of comfortable shoes at your desk to wear while standing.

3. Add a footrest to help improve circulation and reduce fatigue.

4. Use a wireless keyboard and mouse to allow for freedom of movement.

5. Add a standing mat with a built-in balance board for added movement.

6. Use a standing desk with a built-in treadmill for added exercise.

7. Invest in a monitor arm to adjust the height and angle of your monitor.

8. Set reminders to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day.

9. Use a posture corrector to improve your posture while standing.

10. Try a standing desk with adjustable angles, such as the Uplift V2 Bamboo Desk.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Improved posture
  • Reduced back pain
  • Increased energy and focus
  • Burns more calories than sitting

Cons:

  • Can be tiring on your feet and legs
  • May take time to adjust to standing for long periods of time
  • Can be expensive to invest in a quality standing desk

Personal Review and Suggestion

After using a standing desk for several months, I can confidently say that it has made a positive impact on my overall health and productivity. While it did take some time to adjust to standing for long periods of time, investing in a comfortable mat and taking breaks throughout the day helped alleviate any discomfort. I highly recommend trying a standing desk for anyone who spends a lot of time sitting at a desk.

Question & Answer

Q: How long should I stand at my desk?

A: It’s recommended to switch between sitting and standing every 30 minutes to an hour.

Q: Can I use a standing desk if I have pre-existing back pain?

A: Yes, a standing desk can actually help alleviate back pain by improving posture and reducing pressure on the lower back.

FAQs

Q: Are standing desks more expensive than traditional desks?

A: Yes, standing desks can be more expensive than traditional desks, but there are affordable options available such as standing desk converters.

Q: Can I use a standing desk with a laptop?

A: Yes, but it’s important to invest in a separate keyboard and mouse to ensure proper ergonomics.

Q: Can I still use a chair with a standing desk?

A: Yes, it’s recommended to have a chair nearby to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day.

The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Own Ergonomic DIY Standing Desk from gostanding.org