IT-related jobs “require” sitting in front of a computer for longer periods of time, which can affect work productivity and efficiency. Sitting can also lead to obesity, not to mention other risk factors involved such as having back pain, diabetes, heart diseases and the scary early death!
The solution? A stand desk.
In the last decade or so, there have been a lot of improvements in the field of ergonomics and a variety of products have been launched to make office life more pleasant and productive. Among the most important ones is the optimisation of the stand desk. Its main purpose is to reduce the sitting time – from stationary surface areas to multi-functional floating standing desks, employees can now go from sitting to standing in just couple of steps.
But that’s not all there is to this piece of office furniture. Did you know that it may lower blood sugar levels. Shocked yet!? Medically speaking, after every meal, blood sugar levels increase which is bad for your health, especially if insulin resistant or have type 2 diabetes. In 2006, a study has revealed that replacing sitting with frequent intervals of standing during an 8-hour workday may lower the daily and postprandial sugar levels. Furthermore, a research done by James Levine of the Mayo Clinic back in 2005, claims that standing while working burns 50 more calories in one hour than sitting. Simply put, prolonged sitting is so harmful for your body that even an hour of intense exercise may not make up for the negative effects of a whole day spent sitting!
Another benefit of a stand desk is improved posture. If set up right, that is. The computer monitor should be located just above the resting eye level to ensure complete view of the screen, meaning the table height should be at elbow height. This prevents hunching over or slouching when typing on keyboard, what can lead to stronger body and improved posture in the long run. Lastly, a stand desk may improve mood and boost energy. When standing, blood circulation is improved due to muscular contractions which stimulates blood flow, hence less fatigue and a more alert mind. And more productive employees.
To sum it all up, implementing good ergonomic solutions and habits will increase the efficiency of the workstation ensuring safer working environment. This will not only improve employees’ productivity but their engagement and commitment as well. Remember, happy employees lead to success.