What is the perfect height for a standing desk?

If you're delving into the world of ergonomic furniture, one question likely on your mind is: What is the ideal standing desk height? After all, an inappropriate desk height can leave you ducking or reaching unnecessarily and cause discomfort or pain over time. As the Ergonomic Specialists at Desky, we are here to guide you on this topic.

How high should my standing desk be?

Desk heights should typically fall between 38 and 46 inches, accommodating the average person. In this range, office tasks such as typing or mouse use keep your elbows at that crucial 90-degree angle, reducing potential injury risk.

The focus here is primarily on maintaining comfort while enhancing productivity during standing desk use.

What is the 20 8 2 rule?

To maintain health and well-being while at work, professionals recommend the 20-8-2 rule of desk usage. This involves sitting for 20 minutes, standing for 8 minutes, and moving for 2 minutes.

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Taking a short walk or performing light physical activity every 30 minutes helps to stimulate blood flow and reduce the risk of sedentary-related health issues.

Examples of Implementing the 20 8 2 Rule:

  • Choosing to have a conversation in person rather than over email or chat.
  • Making trips to the mailbox or neighbors.
  • Parking a bit further away, when going to places like the mall or grocery store.

How high should a 5'11 standing desk be?

For a person who stands 5'11, the perfect standing desk needs some adjustments. Personalizing your desk height to match your body will make operations more comfortable and will prevent the development of physical issues.

Is it better for a desk to be too high or too low?

A poorly adjusted desk – be it too high or too low – can lead to discomfort or potential injury. Overly high desks may result in shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand discomfort owing to your need to reach upwards continually.

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Conversely, an implausibly low desk may cause you to lean forward when working or stretch your arms forward to use the keyboard/mouse, particularly if your chair's armrests interfere with your desk setup.

Effects of Incorrect Desk Height:

  • Shoulder discomfort
  • Elbow pain
  • Wrist or hand discomfort
  • Need to lean forward or stretch arms when using the desk

Conclusion

Finding the perfect height for a standing desk ensures comfort, productivity, and helps prevent long-term problems like repetitive strain injuries. Always adjust your standing desk height to accommodate your body type and work habits, keeping within the guidelines set out by our ergonomic experts at Desky.

Remember, applying the 20-8-2 rule can help maintain overall well-being. Proper use of ergonomic furniture can also make a significant difference in your work life. Stay healthy and keep productive!

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