FORUMS > General Fitness Discussion Forum Rules

Rats. It's Monday morning, and I'm stuffed back behind my desk.

Once, when I worked at a big corporation, I came across a small department where they had converted to a "standing office." Somewhere, they had gotten tall desks and computer workstations that were designed to be used while standing. It was because they were often moving back and forth between their drafting tables and desks, and sitting slowed their transition. (At least that was the case they made to management.) If they needed extended time at the computer, they could always pull up a stool.

I wonder if there's a fitness benefit to such an arrangement? Has anyone worked that way before?

I too, move back and forth between the lab bench and the desk (on good days.) Can't afford new furniture, but I could always lift the desk on concrete blocks. At least re-arranging the office would burn some calories.

Well, I worked in hospitality for many years, and that was a constant walking/standing office. I didn't get varicose veins, but I can't say it helped my fitness/health.

We have standing desks at my work, and I noticed that certain athletic people have them - Runners and Kayakers mostly. I've been told that if I pace when I talk (I live on conference bridges), that a standing desk is better. I'm going to ask for one in our upcoming move..will re-post with feedback.

KSM

I've worked in restaurants, bars and retail for most my life and can say that standing all day for work, epecially long hours, really sucks after a while!
I can see the health benifits of doing it for a few hours at a time.. but from what I remember from being on my feet all day long, after a few weeks my legs would be sore on a daily basis >_< !

I'm actually thinking about installing walking desks at our firm:

http://www.squidoo.com/walkingwhileworking

Barring that, I try to get up my from my desk at least once an hour to stretch and walk around.

Standing all day can have negative effects on the body. The obvious being that your feet and legs may hurt. But your lower back may start to hurt as well.

If you are standing still verses sitting still, there really isn't going to be much of a difference.

Sitting will allow your legs to rest, which is important if you are a runner or a dancer or just worked out your legs...