My Experience Making A Stand Up Desk

After suffering from back pain and feeling sluggish from sitting at my desk all day, I decided to make the switch to a stand up desk. I was hesitant at first because I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a pre-made one, so I decided to make my own. After some research and trial and error, I was able to successfully create a stand up desk that not only helped alleviate my back pain but also increased my productivity.

How to Make a Stand Up Desk

Step by Step Guide

Here’s a step by step guide on how to make your own stand up desk:

First, you’ll need to find a sturdy table or desk that is at the appropriate height for your standing position. Make sure the table or desk is wide enough to accommodate your computer, keyboard, and any other necessary items.
Next, measure the height of the table or desk and determine how high you want your monitor to be. You can use a monitor arm or a stack of books to elevate your monitor to the desired height.
Once you have your monitor at the correct height, determine the best height for your keyboard and mouse. You can use a standing desk converter or a stack of books to elevate your keyboard and mouse to the correct height.
Finally, adjust your chair or use a standing mat to ensure you have proper posture and support for your feet while standing.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Here are some additional tips and ideas to consider when making your own stand up desk:

Use a foam mat to stand on to reduce pressure on your feet and legs.
Consider adding a footrest to help reduce pressure on your lower back.
Use an anti-fatigue mat to help reduce discomfort from standing for long periods of time.
Consider adding a balance board or stability ball to engage your core while standing.
Make sure to take breaks and sit down periodically to give your feet and legs a rest.
Use a standing desk converter to easily switch between sitting and standing.
Add plants or other decorative elements to your stand up desk to make it more inviting and personalized.
Invest in a good quality adjustable monitor arm to ensure proper height and ergonomics.
Use a standing desk mat with a sloping edge to encourage movement and improve circulation.
Consider adding a whiteboard or other productivity tools to your stand up desk to help keep you focused and organized.

Pros and Cons

Like any lifestyle change, there are pros and cons to using a stand up desk. Here are some to consider:

Pros

Reduced back pain and improved posture
Increased energy and productivity
Better circulation and improved cardiovascular health
Reduced risk of obesity and other health problems associated with prolonged sitting
Customizable and personalized to fit your specific needs

Cons

Can be expensive to purchase a pre-made stand up desk
May take time to adjust to standing for long periods of time
May require additional equipment or accessories to make it comfortable and ergonomic
May not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions or mobility issues
May not be suitable for certain types of work or tasks that require sitting or specific equipment

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I highly recommend using a stand up desk. The benefits of improved posture, increased energy, and reduced back pain far outweigh any cons. However, it’s important to take the time to properly set up your stand up desk and make sure it’s comfortable and ergonomic for your specific needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different accessories and equipment to find what works best for you. And most importantly, listen to your body and take breaks as needed.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Is it necessary to have a standing mat?

A: While a standing mat is not necessary, it can help reduce pressure on your feet and legs and make standing for long periods of time more comfortable. If you don’t want to purchase a standing mat, you can also use a foam mat or a rug with a padded backing.

Q: Can I use a regular chair with my stand up desk?

A: It’s not recommended to use a regular chair with your stand up desk as it can put strain on your lower back and negate the benefits of standing. Instead, consider using a standing mat or an anti-fatigue mat to provide support for your feet and legs, or invest in an ergonomic standing chair or stool.

Q: Are there any health risks associated with using a stand up desk?

A: While standing has been shown to have numerous health benefits, standing for long periods of time can also put strain on your feet, legs, and lower back. It’s important to take breaks and switch between sitting and standing to avoid any potential health risks.