Standing Desks: Do They Live Up To The Hype?
Are standing desks truly worth the hype? With a plethora of health benefits and convenient features, such as USB ports, there are numerous reasons to consider investing in a standing desk.
In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using a standing desk and delve into the various features they offer to help you make an informed decision.
Are Standing Desks Worth It?
Standing desks have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential health benefits.
One of the key advantages of a standing desks, also known as height adjustable, sit-stand or electric, is the ability to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day.
Research has shown that prolonged sitting can have detrimental effects on our health, including increased risk of obesity, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
By incorporating standing into our work routine, we can combat these risks and improve our overall well-being.
The Benefits of Height-Adjustable Desks
While standing desks offer advantages over traditional sitting desks, height-adjustable desks take things a step further.
These desks allow you to easily transition between sitting and standing positions at the touch of a button or a manual adjustment.
This flexibility provides you with the freedom to find the perfect ergonomic position for your work, reducing strain on your body and enhancing your overall comfort.
Height-adjustable desks also promote movement throughout the day, which can increase blood flow and prevent stiffness or discomfort.
Do Standing Desks Help with Back Pain?
Back pain is a common complaint among office workers and standing desks have recently become the sought-after solution. While standing can help improve posture and alleviate back pain for some individuals, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Factors such as individual body mechanics, pre-existing conditions, and ergonomic setup all play a role in determining whether standing will be beneficial.
For those experiencing back pain, it’s crucial to address the underlying causes and incorporate a comprehensive approach. This may involve incorporating standing, using ergonomic accessories such as standing desk mats, and supportive chairs and ensuring proper posture and body alignment.
Consulting with a healthcare professional or ergonomic specialist can help you create a customised solution that works best for your specific needs.
Standing vs Sitting: The Comparison
Sitting for long periods of time can have a negative impact on our health. It can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which has been linked to various health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
On the other hand, standing can help increase blood flow, burn more calories, and improve overall energy levels.
However, it’s important to strike a balance between sitting and standing. Standing all day may also lead to fatigue and discomfort. The key is to find the right mix of sitting and standing throughout the day.
Experts suggest starting with short intervals of standing and gradually increasing the duration over time. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of both sitting and standing without overexerting your body.
Types of Standing Desks: Manual, Electric, Convertible
Standing desks come in different types, each offering its own set of advantages.
Manual Standing Desks: Manual height adjustable desks are adjusted by manually turning a crank or using a pneumatic lift system. They are usually more affordable than electric desks and offer a straightforward way to switch between sitting and standing positions. However, they require more physical effort to adjust the height.
Electric Standing Desks: Electric standing desks feature a motorised lift mechanism that allows for easy and smooth height adjustments at the touch of a button. These desks are convenient, and precise, and offer preset height positions for quick adjustments. Electric desks are ideal for those who prefer effortless transitions between sitting and standing.
Convertible Standing Desks: Convertible standing desks, also known as sit-stand converters, are designed to be placed on top of an existing desk or table. They provide a cost-effective solution for those who want to convert their traditional desk into a standing desk. Converters typically have a height-adjustable platform where you can place your monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Features to Look for When Purchasing a Standing Desk
When selecting a standing desk, there are several features to consider that can enhance your overall experience and productivity:
- Charging Ports and USB Ports:
Look for an electric height adjsutable desk that offers built-in charging ports and USB ports. These features allow you to conveniently charge your devices and connect peripherals without the need for additional adapters or cables. Having easy access to charging ports including USB ports and USB-C on your desk reduces clutter and keeps your workspace organised.
- Preset Positions:
Some height-adjustable desks come with preset height positions, allowing you to save your preferred sitting and standing heights. With the touch of a button, you can effortlessly transition between these preset positions, saving time and ensuring consistent ergonomics.
- Memory Settings:
Advanced height adjustable desks often feature memory settings that allow you to store multiple height configurations. This is especially useful if multiple people use the desk or if you have specific preferences for different tasks or activities. With memory settings, you can quickly adjust the desk to your desired height without the need for manual adjustments each time.
- Smooth Transition:
Look for a sit stand desk that offers a smooth and quiet transition between sitting and standing positions. This ensures a seamless user experience and minimises disruption during your workday.
What’s the Best Type of Height Adjustable Desk to Buy?
When it comes to choosing a standing desk, there are various options available on the market. The type of desk you select will depend on your preferences, budget, and specific requirements. Let’s explore some popular choices:
- Glass Standing Desks:
Glass standing desks offer a sleek and modern aesthetic that can enhance any office space.
Glass desks are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for those who value aesthetics and functionality.
- Wood Sit-stand Desks:
Wooden height adjustable desks provide a classic and timeless look to your workspace. They are available in various types of wood, such as oak, walnut, or maple, each with its own unique characteristics. Wood desks are sturdy and durable, providing a stable surface for your work.
- MFC (Melamine-Faced Chipboard) Height Adjustable Desks:
MFC height adjustable desks are constructed with a chipboard core and a melamine coating. They offer durability and affordability, making them a popular choice for those on a budget. MFC desks are available in a variety of finishes and colours, allowing you to find one that matches your office decor.
Smart Living ORKA Range: Best Sit-stand Desk for Home Offices
When searching for the ideal standing desk to elevate your home office, the Smart Living ORKA range is a standout option. These desks are specifically designed to meet the needs of modern professionals, offering a blend of functionality, style and ergonomics in mind.
Whether you require a compact desk for a small home office or a spacious workstation for multitasking, the ORKA range has you covered. The ORKA range boasts a diverse selection of options to suit various office spaces and personal preferences.
With their adjustable height feature, robust construction, and effortless assembly, these desks offer the perfect blend of convenience and comfort.
They come in various tops such as glass, wood and MFC to fit different requirements and offer features like adjustable height, sturdy construction, and easy assembly.
The ORKA range also includes built-in drawers, monitor mounting options, whiteboard-friendly glass tops and USB ports, providing added convenience and organisation to your workspace.
Standing Desk With Monitor Mount Capability:
Proper monitor placement is essential for maintaining good posture and reducing strain on your neck and eyes.
MFC (Melamine-Faced Chipboard) and oak standing desks are popular choices when it comes to mounting monitors.
MFC desks are known for their durability and affordability, making them a practical option for many users.
Maple desks, on the other hand, offer a timeless and classic look that can enhance the overall aesthetics of your workspace.
Both MFC and Maple electric height adjustable desks provide sturdy support for monitor mounts, allowing you to position your screen at eye level and achieve an ergonomically friendly setup.
Conclusion: Are Standing Desks Worth the Hype?
Standing desks have gained significant attention in recent years as more people realise the negative effects of sitting for prolonged periods. Research has shown that using a height adjustable desk can increase energy levels, productivity, and overall health.
There are many types of height adjustable available on the market, including those with glass and MFC tops for monitor mounting.
When shopping for a sit-stand desk, it’s essential to consider features such as adjustable height, charging ports, and memory presets.
Overall, electric desks can be an excellent investment for those who spend a lot of time sitting at a desk.
While they may require an adjustment period, the benefits are undeniable.
Whether you choose a traditional standing desk or opt for a more modern design, incorporating one into your workspace could lead to a happier, healthier, and more productive workday.
