6 Tips to Use a Standing Desk Correctly

Correct desk height and computer screen position are fundamental for improving comfort and minimizing injury risk in the office (6).

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Set Your Desk Height and Screen Position

First, adjust your standing desk so that it is roughly at elbow height. Your elbows should naturally form a 90-degree angle when your hands are on the desk.

For reference, a person who is about 5'11" (180 cm) tall would typically have their desk set to around 44 inches (111 cm).

While there isn’t a strict rule for screen positioning, general advice suggests keeping it about 20-28 inches (51-71 cm) from your eyes.

A useful benchmark is ensuring that the distance is at least from your fingertips to your elbow. The top of your monitor should also be at eye level, with a slight tilt of about 10 to 20 degrees upwards. This setup helps prevent the need to crane your neck up or down.

If using a laptop, align the keyboard with your elbow height to promote a healthy posture.

Bottom Line:

Adjust your desk to align with your elbows and set the top of the screen to eye level.

There is substantial evidence supporting the advantages of standing while working compared to sitting. However, like anything, too much standing can also have adverse effects.

This raises the question, how long should you stand at your desk? Research indicates that an excessive sedentary lifestyle carries risks, and knowing how to balance sitting and standing hours is crucial for overall health.

For more on our 4 leg electric standing desk, feel free to reach out. Our knowledgeable sales team is ready to assist in identifying the best options for you.

Sitting for prolonged periods has been labeled as “the new smoking,” due to its association with various chronic health issues. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers can be prompted by excessive sitting.

Many individuals spend hours at their desks, only to come home and continue sitting on the couch, culminating in a sedentary lifestyle which can lead to severe health risks.

An analysis of 13 studies on sitting times revealed that individuals spending eight hours a day sitting had a mortality risk comparable to that of smokers or those suffering from obesity. Data encompassing one million participants indicated that to mitigate the impacts of prolonged sitting, one would need to engage in 60 to 75 minutes of moderate physical activity.

To combat this issue, numerous workplaces are adopting standing desks to reduce seated work duration. Standing not only burns more calories but may also contribute to weight loss, improved mood, and heightened productivity.

Is standing all day advisable? The answer is no; standing for extended periods also poses health risks.

While there are numerous proven benefits of using standing desks, overdoing it can result in discomfort and adverse health effects. Workers required to stand all day frequently report back pain and issues related to their legs, including muscle fatigue and varicose veins.

A study published in the Ergonomics journal highlighted that prolonged standing can lead to discomfort and even slower reaction times. Participants indicated mental fatigue after merely two hours of standing, although some found it beneficial for stimulating creative problem-solving.

If standing becomes tiring or painful, utilizing an anti-fatigue mat can provide relief. These mats encourage subtle leg movements, enhancing blood circulation and reducing discomfort. Depending on the mat, some options are designed for comfort while others provide muscle stimulation. This lightweight solution can be easily repositioned, allowing variations in foot placement which helps in calorie burning and comfort.

For those who can alternate between sitting and standing, finding a balance is key. Research suggests a desirable ratio is to stand for one hour for every one to two hours spent sitting.

A height-adjustable sit-stand desk allows you to do just that, promoting a seamless transition between positions. Most quality options feature electric controls or gas lifts for swift adjustments throughout the day. With a touch of a button, you can adjust your workspace’s height, paired with an anti-fatigue mat or chair to enhance comfort and productivity.

Ultimately, moderation is essential. Alternating between sitting and standing, coupled with regular breaks for movement, fosters a healthier work routine.

For further insights into standing desks, check out our Standing Desk Buyers Guide, or visit the Ergolink showroom. Contact us for personalized assistance or call us at (08) for more information.

As a leading supplier of the 40 inch electric standing desk, we cater to all your requirements with expert staff ready to help you find what you need.