Want a Great Workstation, but Not Sure Where to Start? Start Standing Up!

We couldn’t agree more with the first sentence of Adam Dachis’ recent post on Lifehacker: “You can’t have a great workspace without a great desk and chair.”

These two items are the very foundation of a good work setup. Although a desk and a chair are also going to be some of the more expensive items of furniture in your work station, they don’t have to cost an arm and a leg, and we have some advice for those on a budget who want to make the most of their money.

First, start with a desk. Dachis points out that people are looking for sit to stand desk solutions in increasing numbers due to a heightened awareness of the dangers related to sitting all day. As demand goes up for desks that are easily adjustable, more affordable options have been introduced, so the ability to sit or stand while you work is truly within your reach. We typically recommend going with electric adjustment over manual, because electric stand up desks offer quick and easy adjustments. After all, if you have a desk that is difficult to adjust, you probably won’t use it, and therefore, will not reap the benefits of your investment.

Since you’re no longer going to be sitting all day, you don’t necessarily have to buy the most expensive ergonomic chair out there. But you should still look for something that has seat height and depth adjustment, decent lumbar support and a comfortable seat cushion, and you’ll be all set. When you tire of sitting, just stand up, and vice versa. Generally, we recommend standing for 15 minutes on the hour. So, for an eight hour work day, that would be 2 hours of standing total, but this can vary depending on several factors.

We also think you should take the advice of one of Dachis’ readers, who suggests checking out our website, TheHumanSolution.com, for great height-adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs. We have great options for every budget and space!