Educate: Learn About Ergonomics 

Uncomfortable? Take a Stand!

A new concept in office ergonomics is the value of standing periodically while one continues to work. Listen to the brief interview below as Dr. Marc Hamilton, Associate Professor of Biomedical Sciences for the University of Missouri-Columbia, discusses the conclusions of the latest ergonomics research.

Podcast interview with Dr. Marc Hamilton (umsystem.edu)

Substantiating this concept, a large-scale study found a strong correlation between time sitting and an elevated risk of mortality. Surprisingly, this risk was shared by people who otherwise led active lifestyles—those who complied with guidelines recommending a half-hour of physical activity a day and whose BMI were in the normal range.

Read the results (PDF) published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.

Why Stand?

• Expend more calories
• Increase overall energy for better mental focus
• Relieve bodily stress caused by sitting

Switching between sitting and standing offers the body movement. And movement is the key to computing comfort. Why? One reason is likely because motion facilitates blood flow to carry oxygen and nutrients to joints and tissues so we stay energized while working. This is especially true when using large muscle groups, like those involved in standing.

So, when creating your workspace, use equipment that allows you to change positions as you continue working. Adjustable products are ideal.

In a Nutshell... Sit when you want. Stand when you’re able. Move when you can.