Still Standing

Writing computer programs while standing

Standing desk

After two months of using the Standing Workstation at the Office and four months standing at home, I’m still standing while working on the computer. I should have switched sooner.

Nearly five yours ago, I started working full time at a desk. My health slowly deteriorated even though I commuted daily by bicycle. It was a creeping change. I finally realized the problem: The chair is our enemy.

Humans aren’t designed to sit for long periods of time.

Since I started standing at my desk, I have lost weight, my energy has increased, and my productivity has shot up. Standing, and moving around, increases alertness. Bicycling to work in the morning wakes me up, but sitting drains all the benefits away. Now that I’ve tried standing at my desk for a few months, I can safely say I’m never going back to sitting for hours at a time.

Like any desk, only taller

Sitting is for resting. Stand up to work.

This entry was posted in Writing and tagged by David G Shrock. Bookmark the permalink.

About David G Shrock

David G Shrock lives in the Pacific Northwest where he works as a software developer and writes science-fantasy fiction. Writing code, writing fiction, always writing even when riding his bike. Current projects include a Draco Torre novel.
  • http://windspiritgirl.wordpress.com/ Melissa

    Wow! What a great idea. My chiropractor recommended a kneeling stool for working. I've yet to try it or standing. Do you have a special table/desk for it (one made for standing–or adjustable to it)? Were you tired when you first started?

  • http://www.dracotorre.com/blog/ David G Shrock

    The desk pictured (at the office) is adjustable, not exactly quick to adjust, but adjustable. My home desk is easier to adjust. I love it, my legs appreciate it, and I'm more alert while working. For artists, this is the way to go especially with a long table to lay out all the work and walk around. My boss insisted on including a stool for short breaks.

    I wasn't too tired the first day. I get tired sitting, so I actually enjoyed it. I bicycle everyday, so the extra leg strength might help the transition. After a few days, standing felt more natural.