Much of our modern lifestyle demands that we sit – hour upon hour, day after day. But, news flash, shiny modern people: Our bodies were not designed to do this! In the caveman days, when we were hunting, gathering, playing with fire, and raising our little cave boys and girls, there were plenty of things that kept us on our feet – even running for our lives. Our Paleolithic bodies were in motion most of the time, or in an upright position.
Today, with the invention of computers and the addition of modern conveniences, the world moves at a blistering pace as we sit on our . . . astronomically comfortable chairs. However, after decades of assuming the stationary sitting position for most of the work day, we have discovered that being sedentary for several hours at a time can do some terrible things to our bodies. Too many of us are suffering from chronic neck or back pain. Or what about that ache in your legs from sitting in a chair for too long?
The good news is there is a solution: the sit-stand desk. This adjustable work station is easily moved up or down so you can spend periods of the day working in a standing position. A realistic goal, one that can make a huge difference, is to stand 15 minutes of every hour. In addition to having a healthier back, studies show that using a height-adjustable desk in the standing position can reduce the risk of obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and more. It has also been proven that going to the gym every day will not make up for the health impact of sitting too much. It is necessary to be active throughout the day in order to be your healthiest self.
So, consider adding standing to your daily work routine. It’s simple, but effective. There is a sit-stand desk for every budget and office. Here are a few of our favorites:
Herman Miller Renew Desk (Starts at $1,499)
Available in several stunning wood finishes, sizes and shapes, the Renew Desk creates a style statement in addition to keeping you comfortable and active. We love the powered version of the desk, which has an easy-to-use illuminated switch. It is also available with a counterbalance mechanism for those of you that don’t want to plug in your desk.
Humanscale Float Desk (Starts at $1,749)
The Float Desk uses a counterbalance system that makes adjusting the height a breeze. Faster than the motorized options, you can go from sitting to standing in one second. We love the clean lines and the huge selection of sizes. The top is laminate, which happens to be indestructible. You’ll never have to worry about your coffee cup leaving a ring.
Jesper WorkPad ($299)
If these other options are too big or pricey for your office, check out this solution. The WorkPad provides a petite work surface that easily adjusts with the pinch of a lever. This is a great solution for laptop users and those who want to have a standing option without completely replacing their current desk. The WorkPad is relatively light and on wheels, making it easy to move around the home or office to be used for a variety of purposes.
Jesper Value Desk (Starts at $999)
Our newest sit-stand desk option, the Jesper Value Desk offers plenty of surface space with motorized height adjustment at a great price. A laminate top and simple base keep the cost down. But you will still have all of the function and work space you require. It’s so new, we had to snap a picture of it on our showroom floor!
Jesper Prestige Desk (Starts at $1,999)
The Prestige Desk features a curved cutout table-top surface in the center, creating a cozy niche in which to work. Four wood options and three sizes offer plenty of options. The design of this desk could be at home in a traditional or modern office.
Stop in to see our selection of Sit-Stand Desks!
The Century House
Home & Office Furniture Showroom
3420 University Avenue
Madison, WI 53705
608.233.4488