Stay Active and Productive: The Importance of Regular Movement at the Office

Whether hunting, gathering, or escaping danger, our ancestors had to move constantly. It was a matter of survival. Today you don’t have to run for your next meal or hunt for survival (unless you live in a remote region), but your body still craves regular activity, especially if you sit for long periods at the office.

Sedimentary work can lead to stiffness, fatigue, and mental blocks. Not only does prolonged sitting affect your body, but it can also cloud your mind. Creative blocks are the ultimate frustration for any writer who feels stuck behind the desk.

A great way to avoid creative blocks and get your body moving is to change your environment. Sometimes a change of scenery can stimulate your creativity. This is why taking frequent breaks throughout your working day can help reset your mind and body.

Whether you embrace hourly breaks, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or include short hydration breaks in your routine, every small movement counts. However, you don’t always have to leave your desk to reset. Incorporating a sit and stand desk into your setup allows you to switch positions effortlessly, and stay active and engaged throughout the day.

How to Use One Efficiently?

People weren’t made for prolonged sitting but neither for standing. This said you want to switch between sitting and standing every 30 minutes to an hour. Apps or timers can serve as a reminder to alternate between sitting and standing, reducing the negative effects of staying in one position for too long. This can help you stay on track with your movement goals.

However, this is not a strict rule since everyone is an individual and factors like comfort, existing health conditions, and workload should be considered.

Everyone’s body responds differently to movement. Some people may feel better standing for longer periods, while others may need more frequent sitting breaks. For instance, younger individuals may find it easier to stand for longer periods, while seniors or those with arthritis or circulatory issues may need frequent sitting breaks to avoid joint strain.

In the end, it all comes down to your body and adjusting accordingly. Listen to it and find the balance that keeps you comfortable yet productive at the same time.

How to Choose One Wisely?

Ergonomic sit-stand desks come in various styles and sizes, from simple desk risers that can quickly convert your tabletop into a sit-stand workstation to full electric models that adjust with the push of a button. This makes it easy to find a solution that fits your needs and setting.

When choosing one, consider factors like the height range. Sit-stand desks with different height levels can accommodate various users without compromising comfort and productivity.

Some models also offer presets which are memory functions designed to save your preferred desk heights for sitting and standing positions. Instead of manually adjusting the height every time you change positions, you can switch to your desired setup with just a quick press of a button.

Stability is also important, as a wobbling desk can be distracting. Look for models made from high-quality materials, such as solid steel or heavy-duty aluminium and feature additional crossbars or braces that connect the legs to help stabilise the frame. Additional conveniences like built-in cable management can also enhance convenience by keeping your workspace clutter-free.

Next, the right ergonomic desk should seamlessly fit into your existing workspace and support your daily workflow without hassle. It should offer enough surface area for your computer, documents, and accessories, without overcrowding the room. Therefore when selecting one consider its size. Measure your space to avoid a desk that’s too large or too small for your needs and space.

Still Unsure?

Still in doubt about how to use and choose one? Ergonomic experts can guide you through the entire process. They can assist you in selecting the right solution for your workspace. They take into account factors like size, adjustability, and functionality.

Search for ergonomic consulting firms or individual consultants in your area or those offering virtual services. With their expertise, you can confidently choose a sit and stand desk that promotes comfort and encourages movement throughout your workday.

Going Beyond Sit-Stand Desks

Aside from sit-and-stand desks, there are other ergonomic tools that can further enhance movement. For instance, an ergonomic foot rocker can keep your feet engaged while seated. Engaging lower leg muscles promotes movement and improves circulation which can help reduce the risk of fatigue and discomfort.

While seated you can use a balance ball chair that encourages subtle movements. These movements help activate core muscles and reduce back strain. While standing you can use a balance board to engage your core muscles and improve stability. Again, it’s all about incorporating tools and furniture that support movement and make the most of your position, whether sitting or standing.