When planning out a corporate wellness program, it can be difficult to know where to start. Both the physical and mental health of the employees need to be considered, and in a way that doesn't reduce productivity and productiveness of the business.
One tool that can be used to improve all of these factors at the same time is incorporating standing desks as an option for employees. Here, we'll take a look at how they can help and why adding them to an office can be a great idea.
What Are Corporate Wellness Programs?
Corporate wellness plans are programs designed to keep employees happy, and healthy, and prevent burnout. These programs help employees be more productive than traditional workplaces and can reduce stress-related employee turnover.
Companies with wellness programs can gain an edge in attracting top talent and make retaining skilled employees easier, making them well worth the cost.
Corporate wellness programs redesign the workplace in ways that improve the mental and physical health of the employees. These can include fitness options, meditation or counseling services, on-site childcare, and other innovations. One tool in particular that can be worked into corporate wellness programs is standing desks.
What Are Standing Desks
Standing desks are workplaces designed to be used while standing up rather than sitting in an office chair. Computer monitors, keyboards, and writing surfaces are all placed at levels appropriate for standing so that the employee doesn't need to be seated or hunched over the desk to work.
They can range from fixed pieces of furniture or have motors that can be adjusted to fit the height of the user. They're an alternative to traditional sitting desks that offer some unique advantages.
Advantages
Standing desks can help mitigate the health problems caused by sedentary lifestyles by offering employees a way to continue working without being forced to sit down. They can promote good posture, which can help with aches and pains related to being hunched over a keyboard all day.
Some other health advantages include reduced blood sugar, reduced risk of heart disease, and lower obesity rates.
While standing by itself only burns a few extra calories, standing desks make it easier to work in a few quick bodyweight exercises while waiting for replies or during other brief workplace pauses without needing to move chairs out of the way. Lunges, high knees, stretches, and other exercises can be performed easily at a standing desk.
In addition to the physical health advantages of using a standing desk, there are also mental health benefits. Studies suggest that using standing desks can improve the mood and energy levels of employees.
Sitting still for too long is thought by some to slow blood circulation, so using a desk that offers the option to stand up can help prevent sluggishness or lack of focus caused by a lack of good blood circulation.
Disadvantages
While standing desks have many good aspects, there are some potential disadvantages as well. Employees with existing back or knee pain may find it difficult to work at a standing desk for long periods.
Standing still for too long can cause foot pain in some people, although this can be helped by using anti-fatigue mats. The dress code of the workplace may need to be adjusted to accommodate standing desks, as conventional dress shoes aren't always designed to be worn for long periods and may contribute to foot aches.
Some employees may find it easier to focus on work sitting rather than standing, especially if they aren't used to standing while working. However, all of these issues can be overcome by getting a high-quality adjustable standing desk that also gives you the option of sitting.
These pieces of furniture allow users to choose how they work. This also makes them a great addition to a corporate wellness program as employees will feel empowered by having a choice in how they work.
Different Types of Standing Desks
Standing desks come in several different styles, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Fixed-standing desks are solid pieces of furniture set at a single height. They are the most affordable option but can't be adjusted to work with differing heights.
Powered standing desks include an electric motor that can raise or lower the height of the desk. They are more expensive but offer more flexibility and customization than a fixed-standing desk. These are often the perfect solution for a corporate wellness program.
Final Thoughts
A huge part of corporate wellness is ensuring employees feel valued in the workplace. Implementing standing desks gives all of the benefits above to allow workers to feel more energized and productive.
However, it's understandable that not everyone wants a standing desk or to be stood for long periods. This is why adjustable standing desks can be the perfect compromise, as they allow employees to find their perfect level of comfort.
