Taking a Stand: An Elevated Desk Story

When Armstrong, Fleming & Moore moved to new digs in 2017, much fanfare focused on open work space with colorful acoustical wall art to muffle chatter, three conference rooms and a large kitchen / work prep space. Another facet of the office’s fresh design was the option of adjustable desks and many opted in. Sit-to-stand desks are one more element of a flexible work style; users can raise and lower them at ease whenever they want.

Standing desks are a rapidly growing benefits trend. One manufacturer, Varidesk, has grown from one employee in 2012 to more than 200 today as more and more of us desire to stay healthy at work. In addition to the sedentary lifestyle being a well-known killer, some studies reveal that standing employees at call centers are more productive.

Options for the ergo-friendly office are limitless. While most chose the basic sit-to-stand desktop modification, Ryan decided on a fully-wired, adjustable-height desk on wheels with a sturdy standing frame and an attractive bamboo desktop.

Easy does it and everything in moderation; there is such a thing as fitness overload. Food service professionals will attest that standing too much actually contributes to lower back problems, varicose veins and some cardiovascular issues.  Rest assured that nobody is overdoing it with on-the-job fitness at 1800 M Street (Suite 1010-S), although our new office also features a state-of-the-art gym in the basement.  Most of the standing work seems to occur after a large lunch to jump start a wakeful state.

Despite early claims of weight loss while standing, there is no evidence that standing still while looking at a monitor burns many calories, and so our wish list now includes another ergonomic enhancement, walk-and-work treadmill desks!

Woman standing in front of her standing desk

Presented by Mary Lou Smart, FPQP®

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