Standing workstation at the office

Last month I decided to get off my butt and stand at the computer while I write my stories after a full day of writing computer programs. My posterior can’t handle sitting all day. I also noticed that my health has declined since switching to a desk job. And I bicycle daily! As I pointed out in my previous post on my home solution, two studies concluded (NYT report and physorg.com) that daily jogging isn’t enough to offset the damage of sitting at a desk for eight hours. I agree. Sitting is a killer.

Writing computer programs

My office purchased an Alvin WorkMaster height-adjustable drafting table. Upon its arrival, I ripped open the boxes and assembled this beauty. The key to working in comfort is the table height. The keyboard should be low enough so that elbows are at the sides and palms remain off the surface. I stand at 72 inches tall, and setting the table height at 40 inches seems about right. The CTO decided I also needed a stool. Changing positions saves the body from stress.

This desk includes a shelf underneath for my computer programming references and (most important) speakers for music. As seen in the photographs, there is plenty of room for multiple monitors, books, sketchpads, and decorations. Plus, I now feel powerful gazing down at the underlings (just teasing.)

Shelf for references books and music

Over the last month, the standing desk at home has worked out great. I do all of my writing while standing and some of my other work. I feel more alert keeping focused on writing.

Next month I will post an update on working daily with a standing workstation.

Optional stool primarily used for hanging jacket

For weekly talk on healthy habits for writers (and other desk slaves) see #writerlbsOff at Don’t Fence Me In by Anne Tyler Lord, or follow the tweets with hashtag: #writerlbsOff on Twitter.

Stand up and write!