How to Transition to Using a Standing Desk Gradually

Standing Desks

How to Transition to Using a Standing Desk Gradually

The idea of switching to a standing desk can be exciting, especially if youโ€™re seeking to improve your posture, reduce back pain, or simply break the cycle of sitting for long hours. However, itโ€™s important to approach this transition gradually. Jumping straight into standing for long hours can cause fatigue, discomfort, or other issues. The key is to take it slow, listen to your body, and make small adjustments as you go.

Hereโ€™s a step-by-step guide on how to transition to a standing desk in a way that works for you:

1. Start Small with Sitting-Standing Intervals

When you first start using a standing desk, itโ€™s best to alternate between sitting and standing rather than jumping straight into full-time standing. You can begin by standing for 15โ€“30 minutes at a time, and then sit down for 45 minutes to an hour. This approach allows your body to adjust gradually.

Suggested Plan:

  • Week 1: Stand for 15 minutes every hour.
  • Week 2: Stand for 20 minutes every hour.
  • Week 3: Increase to 30 minutes every hour.
  • Week 4: Continue to increase standing time as comfortable, until youโ€™re standing for half or more of your workday.

2. Wear Comfortable Footwear

Just like when walking or running, wearing comfortable shoes is crucial when standing for long hours. Shoes with good arch support will help you avoid pain or strain on your feet and legs. Avoid high heels or unsupportive footwear while standing.

If you work in a more casual environment, consider investing in shoes specifically designed for standing, or look for orthotic inserts to provide extra support.

3. Adjust Desk and Monitor Height

Ergonomics play a significant role in the success of your standing desk setup. Ensure that your desk and monitor are adjusted correctly. Your desk should be at elbow height, allowing your arms to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle when typing. Your monitor should be positioned so that your eyes are level with the top of the screen, reducing the need to tilt your neck.

4. Incorporate Movement

One of the primary benefits of a standing desk is the ease of movement. While standing, take advantage of this by shifting your weight from one leg to the other, doing light stretches, or walking in place. These movements will help prevent stiffness and keep your blood circulating.

Consider adding:

  • Small desk exercises to keep your muscles engaged.

5. Listen to Your Body

Pay close attention to how your body feels during and after using the standing desk. If you experience any pain or discomfort, take a break and sit down. Fatigue is normal when first transitioning, but persistent pain should be addressed by adjusting your desk setup or reducing your standing time.

6. Gradually Extend Your Standing Time

As you become more comfortable with standing for short intervals, you can begin to extend the length of time spent on your feet. Gradually increase your standing intervals by 10โ€“15 minutes each week. Over time, youโ€™ll be able to stand for several hours a day without discomfort.

By Week 5 or 6, your goal might be to stand for 4โ€“6 hours per workday, while still sitting when needed. This slow progression will make it easier on your body and allow for a smoother transition.

9. Donโ€™t Forget to Take Breaks

Whether youโ€™re sitting or standing, taking regular breaks is crucial for your overall health. Aim to move around or stretch at least once every 30 minutes. Even standing can become tiring if you stay still for too long, so encourage yourself to take short walks, stretch, or even do light desk exercises.

 

Transitioning to a standing desk doesnโ€™t have to be overwhelming. By starting with small intervals and gradually increasing your standing time, you can reap the benefits of improved posture and energy without the discomfort that comes with standing too long too soon. Remember to invest in ergonomic accessories, listen to your body, and keep moving throughout your workday to make the most of your standing desk experience.

See our range of Australian Made standing desks here…..

Contact us to discuss you needs. We are happy to help you choose the right standing desk to suit your specific requirements.

author avatar
Guy Director
Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Ergomotion Director since 2005.

Google Reviews

Ergomotion

Google Reviews

Shelley Jensen 07/09/24

Google
Guy (the owner) delivered the desk and set it up quickly. He then gave me a lesson on how to use it and how to get the most out of it. Arrived on time and was absolutely lovely to deal with throughout the whole process. Highly recommend.

clifford sneider 06/09/24

Google
Guy was fantastic and the desk is amazing

Jo Manning 08/08/24

Google
I bought an adjustable desk from Guy a couple of years ago, got great service and good price. Recently we had a tiny issue which could not be fixed over the phone. Guy was more than happy to come out and look at it 2 days later. All fixed! I really appreciated his patience with me and accommodating us so quickly. Great old fashioned service and piece of mind. I love it. I know where to get my second desk when needed. Thank you Guy. Jo Manning

Deborah Hunt 25/07/24

Google
ergomotion were fantastic to deal with. excellent customer service and a great product.

Andrew Pieterse 14/06/24

Google
Great service and really quick shipping. It is great to know that you are getting quality parts from a Scandinavian manufacturer with your standing desk purchase rather than the cheap knock off stuff you get from other major brands. Reasonably priced for the quality too!

Janette Clarke 20/05/24

Google
Guy was very accommodating with meeting him at a time that suited me. He assembled the desk prior to me collecting so I only had to carry it inside with help (it's pretty heavy). The desk is great, the storage racks underneath with the 6 x built in powerpoints was worth the extra money. I have a functioning & tidy workplace.
Guy was brilliant, I highly recommend.
Janette

Nickel 10/05/24

Google
Have now purchased 2 stand up office desks off Guy, benchmark sales service from him, all via email, so easy; from quote to plug in, only matched by the strong quality of these machines, solid and stable. If only everything in life was this easy and reliable.

Jennifer Fadriquela 23/03/24

Google
I purchased an EDesk this month from Ergomotion, and it was a remarkably smooth transaction. Guy was eager to answer all my questions before my purchase. As a first-time buyer of a standing desk, I truly appreciated how he addressed my queries with thorough details and provided options within my budget.

The delivery process was also smooth, despite a slight delay in the ETA. Guy ensured I received all necessary updates from the courier/removalist.

I've been using the desk for a couple of weeks now and I'm satisfied with it. It's sturdy on all height adjustments and the motor works as expected. I also like oak finish because it's clean-looking and suits my room setup.

Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and I'll definitely recommend Ergomotion to someone looking for their desk needs.

Josh Oliver 04/02/24

Google
I've had an ergomotion desk for 10 years. It's still as good today as it was brand new. Over the years Guy has always responded promptly to any guidance I've needed (mostly help putting the desk back together after removalists take it apart).

Michael Cheung 18/01/24

Google
Great service from Guy and the team at Ergomotion! Helped with all my queries and was able to source a standing desk part for me when many others weren't able! Highly recommend!
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