There's been a lot of research into the health benefits of standing desks in recent years, with many people claiming that they can help with weight loss, reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, and improve your overall health. But does science back up these claims?

A recent study published on the Harvard Health website looked at the effects of standing desks on weight loss and calorie expenditure. The study found that standing desks can help you burn more calories, but only if you stand for a significant amount each day. Participants who stood for less than two hours per day didn't see any significant benefits.

So, if you're looking to lose weight, a standing desk could be an excellent way to do it, but you must ensure you stand long enough each day. Other studies have shown that standing desks can help improve posture, reduce back pain and increase activity levels. Sitting for long periods has been linked to various health problems, including obesity and heart disease, so using a standing desk could help reduce the risk of these conditions.

However, other researchers are against relying on standing desks as a 'miracle cure' for weight loss. They point out that while standing desks can help you burn extra calories, more is needed to make up for an unhealthy diet or lack of physical activity. Read on to learn more about the benefits and risks of standing desks and how to choose the right one for your workplace.

Do standing desks help you lose weight?

Standing desks have become increasingly popular recently, with many people transitioning away from the traditional seated desk setup. While standing desks have plenty of health benefits, such as reducing back pain, improving posture and increasing activity levels, evidence suggests they can help with weight loss. Studies have found that standing desks can help people burn more calories than sitting at a desk all day, reducing their risk of obesity and related diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

A recent study published in the journal of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise compared two groups of workers, one using a standing desk and another using a traditional seated desk, over six months. Researchers found that people using standing desks burned an extra 54 calories per hour during this period. While this may not seem like a significant amount of calories, it adds up over time and can help people maintain or even lose weight.

The health benefits of standing desks extend beyond just calories and weight loss. Researchers have also noted that standing desks can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and other health issues related to a sedentary lifestyle. By using a standing desk, workers can reduce the time spent sitting at the computer screen, improving their overall health and well-being.

Overall, there is strong evidence to suggest that standing desks can help people lose weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases. While standing desks have many other health benefits, such as reduced back pain and improved posture, weight loss is one of the most widely touted benefits.

A Standing Desk Won't Help You Slim Down—but walking will

It's important to remember that using a standing desk alone won't help you achieve significant weight loss. While standing desks can help you burn more calories, more is needed to make up for an unhealthy diet or lack of physical activity. To lose weight and cut it off, you must focus on healthy dietary choices and getting enough exercise.

In addition to using a standing desk, it's also essential to ensure you walk throughout the day. Studies have shown that walking can help with weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease and other conditions. Walking helps improve posture, increase energy levels, and lower back pain.

One study found that workers who used a standing desk and walked for an hour during their workday lost more weight and had lower blood pressure than those who just used a standing desk. Researchers concluded that the combination of standing and walking was more beneficial in promoting overall health than just using a desk. However, it's important to note that these results may not apply to everyone. People who are obese or have diabetes may need more exercise and dietary changes than those who use a standing desk.

Benefits of Standing Desks

1. Improved Posture

Our backs and necks can suffer when sitting in the same position at a desk for long periods. Standing desks provide an opportunity to stand and move around, ultimately improving posture and reducing strain on the body. Standing desks can strengthen core muscles, reduce fatigue, and potentially prevent neck and back pain.

2. Burn Calories & Weight Loss

It's no surprise that standing is better for your health than sitting. Its been reported that standing desks can significantly increase the number of calories you burn throughout the day. Recent studies show that using a standing desk at work can help people to lose weight. Research indicates that those who use standing desks in the office can burn up to 20% more calories than those who remain seated. This is because standing requires more energy than sitting does.

Researchers believe that this could be beneficial for weight loss efforts. The extra calorie burn from a standing desk has also been linked to improved metabolic health. Researchers found that those who used standing desks had lower levels of fat and sugar in their blood, which could help reduce the risk of obesity.

3. Reduced Risk of Disease

Using a standing desk can reduce the risk of certain diseases. It is believed that those who spend more time standing during the workday have a lower risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. Studies have also suggested that sitting for extended periods can increase the risk of developing obesity and other health concerns. Therefore, standing desks are a way to reduce the amount of time people spend sitting and help decrease the risk of developing certain diseases.

Furthermore, standing desks have been associated with reducing the risk of developing back pain. It is believed that standing while working encourages better posture, which can reduce the risk of developing lower back pain. Additionally, researchers suggest that standing desks can encourage more activity throughout the day, which can help improve blood pressure and overall health.

4. Improved Focus and Concentration

Standing desks have also been associated with improved focus and concentration. Studies have found that those who used a standing desk experienced fewer distractions and improved cognitive performance. Researchers believe standing while working encourages better posture, which can help people stay alert and focused. The brain is also believed to receive a boost when standing, as standing can increase blood flow.

5. Better Mood

Research has also suggested that standing desks can positively affect people's moods. Studies found that those who used standing desks experienced improved moods and increased motivation. This could be because standing desks encourage physical activity, which can help reduce stress and boost energy levels.

What to consider before buying a standing desk

Before you purchase a standing desk, it's important to consider the following:

1. Quality and comfort

Standing desks come in various heights, shapes and sizes. Finding one that is comfortable for you and can withstand your daily use is important. As well as the height and length, ensure you check the stability of the desk itself - if it's wobbly, you'll be less likely to use it.

2. Cost

Standing desks can vary in price depending on size, materials and features. As a general rule of thumb, higher-quality desks will usually be more expensive. Consider the amount you're willing to spend and the amount of use you'll get from your standing desk before buying.

3. Long-Term Use

It's important to consider how often you'll use your standing desk. Research shows that 'active working' - alternating between sitting and standing several times a day- can benefit physical and mental health. So make sure your desk is designed so you can easily switch between sitting and standing.

Standing desks offer various health benefits and can help reduce the risk of physical ailments associated with sitting for long periods. Before investing in one, however, it's essential to consider the type of desk you need, its cost and additional features. With little research, you can find a standing desk that will suit your needs and help improve your health in the long run. We hope the above information has given you an idea of what to look for when shopping for a standing desk.