Is Standing Desk A Predictor of Productivity?

Do you work in an office—at home or on-site?

Quick question: How many hours do you sit during your workday?

If you're like most professionals, chances are it's more than 7 hours a day. With 8-10 hour workdays, prolonged sitting becomes the norm. Over time, this leads to increased complaints of upper-body musculoskeletal discomfort, including back and shoulder pain. Many workers push through the discomfort, but this can cause long-term health issues.

The Health Risks of Prolonged Sitting

Research shows that excessive sitting is linked to serious health risks such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even some cancers. As discomfort grows, workers tend to take frequent breaks—stretching, grabbing a drink, or walking to the printer—which, while helpful, can disrupt focus and reduce productivity.

One simple solution is to stand regularly throughout the day. Following the 20/20/20 rule—standing every 20 minutes, walking for 20 seconds, and resting your eyes by looking 20 feet away—can reduce fatigue and boost alertness.

Why Standing Desks Are on the Rise

To combat the negative effects of sitting, many professionals are turning to sit-stand desks. In a 2013 study by Dr. John Buckley from the University of Chester, participants who used standing desks burned an additional 50 calories per hour. Standing for just 3 hours a day, 5 days a week, adds up to 750 calories weekly—equivalent to 8 pounds of fat burned in a year.

To stay comfortable while standing, it's important to invest in quality ergonomic accessories. Tools like anti-fatigue floor mats from AnthroDesk help reduce strain on your feet and back. Maintain good posture by standing straight, keeping your feet hip-width apart, and avoiding locked knees or leaning on one leg. Your keyboard should be at or slightly below elbow height, and your monitor should be at eye level.

Standing Desks Improve Focus and Productivity

The Take-a-Stand Project, published by the CDC, revealed promising results for standing desk users. Participants reduced sitting time by 224%, experienced less upper back and neck pain, and reported improved moods.

Key findings include:

• 87% felt more energized

• 66% reported increased productivity

• 71% felt more focused

• 87% felt more physically comfortable

• 75% reported overall improved health

These stats support the growing trend of ergonomic workstations as a smart investment in both health and performance.

Final Thoughts

Standing desks aren’t just a wellness trend—they're a long-term investment in your health and career productivity. Even short, consistent intervals of standing can improve circulation, reduce fatigue, and enhance focus throughout the day. Ready to make the switch? Start building a healthier, more productive workspace today with ergonomic solutions from AnthroDesk.ca. Your body—and your work—will thank you.