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Ergonomics

Standing-Height Ergonomics

You’ve added a standing desk to your workspace to help ward off the negative health consequences of sitting all day. You’re now consistently moving and incorporating a balance of sitting and standing. But have you forgotten about ergonomics? While a balance of sitting and standing is the most important, you’ll also want to consider the height of your workstation, the position of your monitors and keyboard, and your ergonomic chair adjustments to make sure that your body is fully supported whether you’re taking a stand or sitting for a bit.

Set Your Workstation at the Proper Height

Your workstation should not cause you to strain to reach something high or low. If you are reaching to look up or down, it can cause a lot of strain on your shoulders, neck, and back. An adjustable-height desk allows you to move the workstation up or down to accommodate your height. You will want to position your workstation (including your keyboard) so your arms are parallel to the ground while typing (no stress on elbows or shoulders) and you're not looking up or down at monitors but instead straight ahead, keeping your shoulders and neck relaxed. It's recommended that your monitor is placed about arm’s length from your face.  

Stand Correctly

Standing at your desk for the recommended amount of time isn't enough—you'll need to be sure you are standing correctly. Otherwise, you may still experience those aches and pains you’ve been trying to avoid. Having your monitor at the right angle and your workstation at the right height will help, but remember to keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Avoid reaching above or behind the shoulder line. Avoid crossing your legs in any matter when standing and avoid locking your knees—both of these movements can disrupt blood flow. Instead, keep your feet pointed toward your workstation and your knees loose and comfortable.

Consider Your Feet

Even if you stand for short bursts throughout the day, you’ll want to consider how your feet are holding up. If they are sore or uncomfortable after standing, evaluate your footwear and add an anti-fatigue mat to your workspace. Switching to practical footwear for standing is ideal, and anti-fatigue mats can make a huge difference in supporting your feet and legs.

Take a Seat

Sitting all day isn't good for you, but neither is standing all day. As a general rule of thumb, you should be standing 15 minutes for every 2 hours you sit. When seated, maintain proper posture to reap the health benefits of good ergonomics.

More From NBF

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Newly released report reveals health risks for American desk-job workers who spend too much time sitting on the job and the many benefits for incorporating periodic standing into the office environment.

The Complete Guide to Standing Desks

Standing desks have become more than a trendy office addition—they are now recognized for their potential to enhance health, productivity and well-being. With growing awareness of the negative effects of prolonged sitting, standing desks are a valuable investment in working well.  

According to NBF research, employees identify ergonomic and adaptable office setups as critical for productivity and job satisfaction, alongside essentials like privacy and noise control​. Specifically, 56% of surveyed employees stated that having a sit-to-stand or adjustable-height desk is very or extremely important to their ability to work their best.  

This guide provides a thorough look at selecting the right standing desk for your needs, covering factors from space requirements to ergonomic accessories that make a real difference. 

What Types of Standing Desks Are There? 

Standing desks or stand-up desks come in a few different styles to satisfy the needs of a wide range of users. Depending on whether your budget and whether you have an existing desk,  you may want to consider each option to select the one that's best for you. 

  • Adjustable-height desks have a work surface that moves up and down with you. If you only have space for 1 desk and want to make switching between sitting and standing as easy as possible, an adjustable-height desk is the best option. With an adjustable-height desk, you can do all your sitting and standing in 1 place. Adjustable-height desks will have either a gas lift, a manual lift or an electronic lift adjustment mechanism. In some collections, the adjustable-height desk is made up of the bridge on a U-shaped desk or the return on an L-shaped desk. 

  • Adjustable monitor risers are a fantastic aftermarket alternative for those who don't want to spend a ton on a stand-up workstation. If you want the benefits of an adjustable-height desk but don’t want to get rid of your old desk, an adjustable-height monitor stand is your ticket. These stands and mounts can be attached to your existing desk (or simply placed on top) to provide a low-cost alternative to a standing desk. 

  • Standing-height desks have a work surface measuring around 42" tall. If you have a lot of space in your office, you may want to add a standing height desk to the space and alternate between using that and your regular desk.  

  • Standing-height L-desks combine the functionality of a standing-height desk with the versatility of an L-shaped layout, offering an expansive workspace designed for productivity. With their generous surface area, standing-height L-desks are great for those who need room to spread out materials, set up multiple monitors or accommodate collaborative tasks. Perfect for larger office spaces, these desks provide ergonomic flexibility and a professional appearance while supporting a variety of work styles. 

What Are Standing Desks Made Of? 

Materials matter when it comes to durability, aesthetics and budget. Here’s what to consider: 

  • Laminate—Cost-effective and durable, laminate is ideal for high-traffic areas and is easy to maintain. It’s a smart choice for those balancing durability with budget constraints. 

  • Wood Veneer—Veneer desks provide a premium look without the high cost of solid wood. However, they may need more care to retain their aesthetic. 

  • Solid Wood—The highest quality option, solid wood offers exceptional durability but tends to be heavy and costly. This material may be better suited for executive offices or spaces where aesthetics are paramount. 

  • Metal Frameworks—Modern and industrial, metal frameworks offer durability and stability. They are typically paired with wood or laminate tops. Steel is common, with chrome or powder-coated finishes. 

Standing Desks Can Set Your Team Up for Success 

Creating an ergonomic and adaptable workspace is essential for employee well-being and productivity. A well-chosen standing desk, tailored to your space and needs, offers flexibility and long-term health benefits. 

As you select the right standing desk and accessories, consider it an investment in a workspace that will support your comfort and productivity every day. 

How Do I Incorporate More Standing Into My Work Day?

By now it’s fairly common knowledge that sitting at your desk for 40 hours a week isn’t doing your body any favors. So how can you make is easier to alternate between sitting and standing throughout your work day? The right standing desk could be just what you need.

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