From the chair to the standing desk: My journey towards a healthier posture
May 2022
For a long time, I suffered from back pain that seemed to get worse every day. By paying attention to my postural habits, I discovered that most of my pain came from long hours sitting at my desk. I decided it was time to look for a solution.
The search for an alternative
After researching and observing my coworkers, I realized that many of us shared the same problem. The solution seemed clear: work standing up. I began experimenting with a homemade prototype, using the resources I had on hand.
Pros and cons of standing work
My first weeks working on my feet were a roller coaster of sensations. While my back pain was almost completely gone, I faced new challenges:
- Leg fatigue: Long days on my feet and trips on public transportation left my legs tired.
- Difficulty concentrating: On days when I didn't rest well, I had a hard time staying focused while working on my feet.
- Adapting the environment: I had to modify my workspace and find the right shoes to work on my feet for long hours.
Despite these drawbacks, the benefits far outweighed the challenges:
- More energy and focus: Feeling more active allowed me to stay focused for longer.
- Improved posture: Working standing forced me to maintain a more upright posture, which significantly reduced my back pain.
- Greater mobility: Being able to move freely while working made me feel more comfortable and productive.
Designing my own standing desk
After experimenting with different setups, I decided to design and build my own standing desk. This project allowed me to customize my workspace and adapt it to my specific needs.
The long term benefits
Since I started working on my feet regularly, I have experienced numerous benefits to my health and well-being. My recommendation for those who want to try:
- Reduction in back pain: The chronic back pain that accompanied me for years has completely disappeared.
- Increased energy and productivity: I feel more alert and focused, allowing me to be more productive in my work.
Tips for adopting standing work
If you're thinking about switching to a standing desk, here are some tips:
- Start gradually: Don't force yourself to work on your feet all day from the beginning. Start with short periods and gradually increase the time.
- Invest in good footwear: Comfortable and supportive footwear is essential for working on your feet for long hours.
- Adjust your workspace: Make sure you have enough room to move around and that your desk is the right height.
- Listen to your body: If you feel pain or discomfort, rest and adjust your position.
Conclusion
My experience with standing work has shown me that it is an investment in my health and well-being. If you are looking to improve your posture and increase your productivity, I encourage you to try working standing up.
Thanks for reading.