I’m excited to say that I am typing this while standing at my newly modified office desk. Apparently working out three or four times a week isn’t enough to negate the many hours I spend with my butt parked in an office chair. I am a sedentary athlete. Groan.
With Covid-19 I’m now exercising every day, albeit less intensely. It’s still not enough.
Sometimes I’ll eat lunch standing at the kitchen counter in an attempt to tip the balance. Unless I’m taking a VERY long lunch break, it’s not really tipping the balance.
There’s a lot of research on this topic. More exercise isn’t the answer. Sitting less makes the difference. Prolonged, continuous sitting is an independent risk factor for a host of problems.
Standing more and sitting less:
1. reduces your chances of cancer, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease
2. reduces neck, back and sciatica pain
3. burns on average 50 calories more per hour
4. improves your posture, enhancing athletic performance
5. increases your life span
6. reduces likelihood of anxiety and depression
7. increases energy and productivity
Doesn’t this list sound a lot like the benefits of exercise? All you have to do is stand for a few hours. You don’t even have to break a sweat!
Things to consider if you’re considering a standing desk
• Ease into it. Alternate between sitting and standing. Frequent shifts are much better than long stints.
• As always, pay attention to ergonomics.
• Choose comfortable footwear.
While my desk modifier is lovely and light, crafted in pre-finished plywood, the right size cardboard box or a pile of books could be a temporary fix. We’re talking about 12-14 inches elevation from a traditional desk. Just try it. I think you’ll like it.