Standing while working at a height-adjustable desk or a Desk Riser has become increasingly popular. Many see it as a solution to the negative health effects of prolonged sitting, but there are several misconceptions about standing work. What does the research actually say? Here, we address the most common myths.
Myth 1: Standing all day is better than sitting
It is a common belief that the more you stand, the better it is for your health. But research shows that the best approach is to alternate between sitting and standing. According to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), prolonged standing can lead to discomfort in the legs, knees, ankles, and feet, as well as lower back problems and fatigue (osha.europa.eu).
Solution: It is recommended to alternate between sitting, standing, and moving throughout the workday to avoid strain injuries.
Myth 2: Standing and working burns much more calories than sitting
Many people believe that by using a height-adjustable desk or a Desk Riser, they can burn significantly more calories. According to an article in MåBra you do not burn enough calories just by standing for it to lead to weight loss (mabra.com).
Solution: Standing work does not contribute significantly to weight loss, but it can improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases.
Myth 3: A sit-stand desk solves all ergonomic problems
Many people believe that as soon as they get a desk riser or an adjustable desk, their back problems will disappear. But ergonomics is about how you use your workstation, not just what equipment you have. According to the Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, prolonged low-intensity work without breaks and variation can lead to adverse strain on the muscles (camm.regionstockholm.se).
Solution: To get the maximum benefit from a To get the most out of your Desk Riser, you should combine it with an ergonomic chair, the right screen height, and regular movement breaks.
Myth 4: Standing and working automatically makes you more productive
There is a belief that standing work automatically increases productivity. According to the Public Health Agency of Sweden, however, both prolonged sitting and prolonged standing can increase the risk of strain-related problems and other health issues. It is therefore important to vary your working position to promote health and productivity (folkhalsomyndigheten.se).
Solution: Try using your Desk Riser for tasks that require less fine motor control or intense concentration, such as video meetings or brainstorming sessions, and vary your working position to find what works best for you.
Myth 5: Standing and moving around reduces the risk of heart problems
There is a belief that standing work alone is enough to reduce the risk of heart disease. But research shows that more than just standing is required to achieve these health benefits. According to a study published in Forskning & Hälsa prolonged sitting increases the risk of heart disease, but it is regular movement breaks and physical activity that have the greatest positive effect on heart health (forskninghalsa.se).
Solution: To reduce the risk of heart problems, you should not only stand up, but also regularly take short movement breaks and add physical activity during the day.
What does the research say overall?
✔ Variation is key — alternate between sitting and standing.
✔ Stand up to improve blood circulation, but combine it with movement. A Desk Riser is a great tool, but it must be used correctly to provide real benefits.
Want to optimize the ergonomics of your workspace? Read more about our desk risers and how they can help you create a better working environment: Freedesk Desk Riser
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