Bad news for fans of stand-up desks
Long touted as a healthy alternative to sitting at a computer, stand-up desks have grown in popularity in offices and schools worldwide. However, a recent study by the University of Sydney casts doubt on this claim.
Data gathered from more than 83,000 people found that standing for more than two hours daily increased the risk of circulatory disease, deep vein thrombosis, and varicose veins. The study also found standing had no impact on reducing the risk of stroke, coronary heart disease, or heart failure.
The key to reducing the risk of all these conditions? Moving our bodies frequently and avoiding standing and sitting for extended periods. Had I known this when working as a grocery store cashier, I'd likely have marched in place.
In a postural analysis workshop I attended, the instructor recommended hybrid sitting/standing desks and alternating each hour.
Learn more about the researcher's findings in this Guardian article. If you own a stand-up desk, will you rethink its use?
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/oct/16/standing-desks-may-be-ba...
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Evangel
This was a no-brainer from the start. Why did enthusiasts of such desks not know this? Likely because they bought into the benefits of these "desks" without digging into available research. When I was eighteen and in college, I had a summer job as a hotel clerk which required me to stand all day checking in guests. At the end of the summer I was left with an unsightly "old lady" varicose vein that mysteriously popped out on one of my legs. This is the only reason I remember that summer job.
Slipstream
Setting a timer as a reminder to move every 50 minutes has been positive for me. When I throw in five or so minutes of exercise, I've found my energy level is much better throughout the day.