Sitting for extended periods is bad for your health and productivity. But so is standing too much. So do fixed height standing desks have a place in the modern office set up?
The simple answer is yes…but you’ll need to find a way to make these types of standing desk work for you.
In today’s post we’ll be taking a look at some easy solutions and quick fixes to ensure the correct ergonomic positioning – for both seated and standing work.
We’ve featured great ideas for taller and shorter users, along with some other options which can pair perfectly with your fixed height desk.
But first off, here are some pointers on how to gain the maximum benefits from using a standing desk and reducing your sedentary time.
Finding the Right Balance
In order to gain the maximum benefits from being more active in the office, it’s important that you split your time between sitting and standing. All or nothing isn’t the way forward. So you should aim to spend around half of your desk time standing.
After around 30 minutes in a static, seated position your metabolism begins to slow down. Your core muscles work less so they become weaker over time. You’ll probably begin to slouch as well which is bad for the posture and can lead to all manner of aches and pains.
If you can, aim to alternate between sitting and standing every 30 minutes. If not, a little time mixing it up is better than nothing. Alternatively, active seating is a good way of keeping the core engaged and reducing some of those aches and pains. (More on seating below.)
Be sure to give your body a chance to get used to your new habits. Start a little at a time and build up from there.
The Right Height for Standing Work
Taking a look at height guidelines for standing desks is a good place to start. This way you can begin to assess if your workstation is working correctly for you.
We use Inch Calculator for recommended desk heights. Guidelines for chair height and monitor placement are also given. (Please note these are guidelines only. Take actual measurements as well for optimum ergonomic pisitioning.)
If Your Desk is Too High
Keyboard Trays
If your desk is too high, you could use a keyboard tray to lower your level for working. As you would expect, these are designed to house your keyboard and they come in different shapes and sizes. Some have room for your mouse as well.
Others feature a small platform to the side.Keyboard trays usually attach to the underside of your desktop, either by a clamp or by screwing on a track mechanism which allows the tray to slide in and out. Depending on the type you choose, these can lower your working height by around 5 inches or more.
Anti-Fatigue Mats
If you need to add around 2 to 4 inches to your height for the correct ergonomic positioning, an anti-fatigue mat could provide you with a simple solution. Not only will it bring you closer to the desktop, it will also provide some cushioning for your feet.
Some mats have raised areas or lumps and bumps so you can stretch and flex your feet and ankles whilst standing – shoes off for maximum benefit. Anti-fatigue mats can be a great way to relieve aches and pains in the fee
Balance Boards
Another easy way to add some extra inches is by using a balance board. Not only will these increase your height by around 6 inches, they also encourage you to make micro movements in order to find a comfortable balance.
As well as helping to keep you alert, this is great for the core muscles. It keeps them engaged which puts less stress on your back, making for a better posture. Also good for the circulation.
If Your Desk is Too Low
Standing Desk Converters
For taller users, a standing desk converter will give you plenty of extra height to work from. They sit on top of your desk and can offer up to around 20+ extra inches. Smaller, single tier versions will accomodate your laptop only. Larger models give you 2 tiers to work from and can be up to around 38 inches in width.
Converters can adjust electrically or manually and there are many types and styles to choose from. The key considerations to bear in mind when choosing a standing desk converter are dimensions, height range and weight capacity. You should also make sure your supporting desk is strong enough to handle your workstation equipment as well as the converter itself.
If your fixed height desk isn’t working for you and you need some extra height, take a look at our Best Standing Desks for Tall People.
Seating Solutions for Fixed Height Desks
Adjustable Drafting Chairs and Stools
Drafting chairs and stools are taller than standard desk chairs. Originally used by architects and the like for elevated work, adjustable models can also provide a flexible solution for fixed height standing desks.
By means of hydraulic or pneumatic lift, seat heights can range from around 22 inches up to around 35 inches. For safety and comfort, choose a chair or stool with a foot rest if your feet are off of the floor.
As well as checking the height range, take a look at the weight capacity when shopping around. Also consider whether you prefer casters (ideally locking) or gliders on the base.
Active Office Seating
Active office seating comes in all shapes, sizes and forms. To work best with a fixed height standing desk, you’ll find that adjustable versions are the better option.
The purpose of active seating is to encourage movements – mainly very small – whilst you’re sitting. This helps to keep the core muscles engaged, taking the strain off of your back. It’s good for the posture and can help to keep you more alert.
Take your pick from very basic perching chairs – where you literally lean on the edge of the seat – to more dynamic models which tilt, rotate and move back to front and side to side. Taller versions can have seats up to around 38 inches high.
Other Options for Your Fixed Height Desk
Under Desk Treadmills
These are different to the ones you find in the gym. Under desk treadmills are designed specifically for gentle walking. A great way to increase your daily steps, walking as you work can help to improve productivity, motivation and creativity.
Adding around an extra 5 or 6 inches to your height, they can be a good solution for shorter users. Well built models are designed to handle a chair being placed on the belt for seated work. To pair your desk and treadmill up correctly, find out more about treadmill desks here.
Desk Bike Chairs
These are another great way to increase your activity whilst working. Choose a model with an adjustable height seat so you can find the correct positioning for your fixed height desk. (Maximum seat height may be up to around 120cm.)
Top range models offer different levels of workout and resistance. Or you can take it easy with a gentle pedal. Whatever you decide, increasing your activity is great for your energy levels, can improve your circulation and will do wonders for your productivity. Plus you’re likely to lose a few pounds whilst you’re at it.
Desk bike chairs can take up a fair bit of space, so generally speaking they’re not the best option for more compact work areas. If you are limited for space, look out for foldable models with lockable casters – these are easier to move out of the way when you’re not using them.
The Fixed Height Standing Desk Takeaway
With fixed height standing desks, you’re limited to a pre-determined level to work from. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
If your desk’s too high for standing work, you could easily add a keyboard tray to lower the working level. Or even simpler still, why not use an anti-fatigue mat or a balance board to gain some extra height.
For taller users, a standing desk converter can give you heaps more height. There are sizes, shapes and styles to match all needs. (These work really well with standard height desks too.)
There are a number of solutions for seated work as well. We looked at adjustable height drafting chairs and active office seating. So whether you just want a comfortable chair that gets you to the right height, or if you want to be on the move whilst sitting down, both options work well with fixed height standing desks.
For those who really want to increase their activity in the office, under desk treadmills or desk bike chairs provide even more options for making the most of your fixed height desk, and for making it work best for you.
Breaking up your time between sitting and standing is good for your health, productivity and motivation. Just be sure to find a balance that is right for you personally, and ease yourself into new ways of working a little at a time.
Do you have a fixed height standing desk? If so, how do you make it work best for you? Send your comments and photos to jane@standingdeskuk.com.
