Sit-Stand Desks have grown in popularity over the last few years. So, what is a sit-stand desk? A sit-stand desk is basically a desk that allows you to stand up comfortably while working. According to a report from the Society for Human Resource Management, standing desks are the fastest-growing employee benefit in US workplaces. One reason for their popularity is that 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. 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 a shorter life. Standing can counteract these risks. Here are some positive benefits of a sit-stand desk:
- Standing lowers your risk of weight gain and obesity. Comparing an afternoon of sedentary work to an equal amount of time spent standing at your desk has shown to burn over 170 additional calories. This calory difference could be one of the reasons why sitting longer is strongly linked to obesity.
- Standing may lower your risk of heart disease. Some scientists believe that prolonged sedentary time contributes to an increased risk of heart disease by up to 147%, therefore standing can help lower this risk.
- Standing desks appear to reduce back pain. Back pain is one of the most common complaints of office workers who sit all day. A study published by the CDC found that the use of a sit-stand desk reduced upper back and neck pain by 54% after just 4 weeks.
- Standing may increase your productivity. A research study from Texas A&M University has shown that employees can experience up to 46 percent rise in productivity when using sit-stand desks, most likely because of higher energy levels.
- Standing may increase your level of engagement. Standing has shown increased levels of enthusiasm and interest in tasks.
Reducing your sit time can improve your physical and mental health. Sitting less and standing more can be an important lifestyle change. If you plan to start using a sit-stand desk, it is recommended that you split your time 50-50 between sitting and standing.
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