Sitting is the new smoking - a slogan that you have probably heard before. There are countless books on how being sedentary is wreaking havoc on our health. So we go into work and ask for a standing desk so we no longer have to sit. However, this is not going to be an end all solution. There are things that need to happen to make sure this is good for us, because standing like a statue all day at our desk is just as bad as sitting.

The standing desk has benefits because they create a more movement rich environment (provided you move while standing). I have a standing desk at the office with a stool, Topo anti-fatigue mat and foam roller. These tools allow me to get my body into different positions during the day. I use the stool to allow me to rest whenever I need it - it allows me to sit without closing up my hips too much. The Topo-mat is an anti-fatigue mat with different terrain shapes on it so it keeps me moving and allows me to use the different shapes to stretch my lower legs. The foam roller is used to place one foot (at a time) on it and roll it back and forth to keep my legs moving and in different positions. When standing at the desk, we want to keep our shoulders back and down and relaxed. Our elbows should be down at our sides. Our pelvis should be tucked under our lower back - to do this squeeze/fire your glutes - this naturally tucks your pelvis - fire your glutes about 20% of max to keep a stable base. Continually change stances, limiting standing on one leg or shifting to just one hip.

If you don't have a standing desk, there are positions you can get into on your chair to create movement and put your body in constantly varied positions (see video below). Transitioning between sitting and standing is best - especially if you can continue to move in both positions.

Listen to the Podcast

Episode 11 - The Standing Desk