Why You Should Sit and Stand at Work

There is a lot of debate over sitting versus standing in the workplace as well as in schools.

There is no question that prolonged sitting is bad for you.  It has even been said that “sitting is the new smoking.”  Many people argue that replacing sitting all day with standing all day will just trade for a new set of problems, and they aren’t necessarily wrong.  Any sustained posture is bad because you keep the same muscles engaged for long periods of time.  When muscles contract, they burn energy that produces waste.  If those muscles aren’t relaxing periodically, that waste accumulates in the muscle and begins to cause discomfort or pain.  When the muscle relaxes, it increases blood flow to the muscle that helps eliminate the waste, and you breathe a sigh of relief.

Related: Top 4 Ways to Relieve Back Pain

So, what should you do then?  One benefit of standing is the increased freedom for movement compared to sitting.  You can easily put one foot up, shift your weight to one side, even lean on the edge of the desk for a moment to achieve a new position and change the muscles used to support you.  Even better, place a stool behind you that you can periodically lean or “perch” against.

Related: Ergonomic / Workplace Health Programs

Your desk and your set up do not need to be fancy!  If your company is able to spend money on an adjustable desk that is great, but it doesn’t have to cost you to improve your set up.  Use some old boxes to raise your computer monitor so the top of the monitor is about at the level of your eyes.  Use some more boxes to raise your key board and your mouse to a comfortable height.  Move that old stool you purchased on craigslist so you can rest one leg on it.  Move it again so you can perch against it!  Bottom line is you need to keep moving.  Any sustained posture is bad for you if held long enough.

If you have any questions about the ergonomics in your workspace reach out to [email protected] to schedule an ergonomic workshop or workstation assessments at your business.

Why You Should Sit and Stand at WorkBy Ryan Weeks, PT, DPT

Back in Motion® Physical Therapy – South Portland, Maine

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