Should you consider a standing desk?

Research has proven that sitting for long periods of time is considered to be the new 'smoking', so we thought we would explore the standing desk phenomenon.
What are they really about and are they actually good for you?
This is what we found out…

Why You Should Consider A Standing Desk…
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1: Burn Extra Calories
You can burn extra calories in the day just by standing up! In fact, you can burn up to 50 calories an hour at a standing desk as you are engaging many of your muscles. You are also more likely to move around if you are already on your feet, burning even more kilojoules. These small movements can help reduce the risk of obesity.
2: Reduced Chance of Major Illnesses
Sitting for long periods of time can increase your risk of Type 2 Diabetes, Heart Disease, and other cardiovascular conditions. Research has proven that the movement associated with a standing desk can even reduce the risk of contracting certain types of cancer that are linked with inactivity.
 
3: Increased Energy

​It is pretty hard to fall asleep at your desk when you are standing up! Standing keeps you more alert and allows your blood to flow through your body easier. That means more energy, more productivity and less chance of being distracted. Increased energy can also improve your mood, reducing the chance of being affected by stress and anxiety.

4: Better Posture and Core Strength
Standing helps to build your core strength and improve your overall posture. It also removes pain in your tailbone and back caused by sitting. A standing desk allows you to position your screen at eye level and to place your arms in a natural position. This prevents you from hunching or slouching - two big no no’s for posture!

​There Is Such A Thing As Too Much Standing
While standing desks definitely have their health benefits, you shouldn’t stand at one all day. Extended standing can cause back, knee and joint issues. You should split your time between both sitting and standing. Try not to stand for more than 2 hours at a time or you will find your back and feet begin to ache.
No matter the industry you work in, there will be pressures on your body. You can minimize the strain as much as possible but sometimes your muscles just need a reset. Onsite chair massage is the perfect way to replenish your energy stores and to release built up tension in your body.
​Give us a call at Bodyworkz today, your body will thank you for it!