What do Winston Churchill, Charles Dickens, and Thomas Jefferson have in common? They all used height adjustable desks that allowed them to work while standing. You may not be the leader of a powerful country or the author of fifteen novels, but you can increase your own productivity and comfort by using this old trick in your own workplace. Here are five quick tips for taking control of your own posture and creating a user-friendly workstation for yourself.

Tip #1: Find the Right Desk for Your Needs

In the time of Jefferson and Dickens, standing desks were cumbersome wooden items that could be hard to adjust. Modern adjustable desks will move up and down at the touch of a button, making them ideal for a flexible workplace environment. Spend some time exploring the options available to you before you commit to a particular desk. Many sellers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for people who want to try out standing in the workplace.

Tip #2: Introduce Yourself Gradually to Standing

Using a standing desk doesn’t mean that you have to stand all day. As little as one hour per day in a standing posture can decrease your risk of obesity, heart trouble, diabetes, and the annoying lower back pain that seems to come with desk jobs. Once you’ve installed your desk, try standing for the most intense tasks of your workday and sitting down for more trivial work. Many people alternate throughout the day to stay energized.

Tip #3: Remember to Take Breaks

When you’re on your feet for much of the day, you’ll still need to take breaks. Consider walking around the office or workplace to get the blood moving in your feet and legs. A healthy snack or drink can be a great opportunity to get away from the desk. Some people even report that using a standing desk cuts down on their cravings for nicotine. Instead of a 5-minute smoke break, why not take a 5-minute walk break?

Tip #4: Keep Your Workspace Organized

An ergonomic computer desk is most helpful if you’re able to use it as a one-stop destination for all your workplace needs. When you set up your workstation, make sure that you have easy access to the important papers, electronic peripherals, and other things you’ll need during the day. When you can get complex tasks done without leaving the immediate environment, you’ll be more efficient in the long run. Modern adjustable desks come with a variety of drawers and holders for the items you need at work.

Tip #5: Share the Good News

Height adjustable desks are more popular than ever in the early 21st century. When one person begins standing in the workplace, the effect can be contagious—and this is a good sort of contagion, leading to increased health and productivity. If you’ve found a standing desk that works for you, tell your friends and co-workers about it. You may even start a small wellness revolution at your own workplace.

Sitting all day long is common in many offices and shops, but it’s not ideal for physical and mental health. By taking control of your working posture with an adjustable desk, you can be healthier and more productive.

Please feel free to contact Ella Gray at ella.l.gray@gmail.com with any questions you may have.