5 ideas that will change the workplace

Tired Woman Working At Desk In Design Studio

Sitting is said to be the new smoking, but how bad for you really is sitting at work? On average, workers spend almost six hours a day sitting still, and even regular runs and exercise don’t counteract the health side effects of our sedentary working lives.

However, there are alternatives to sitting still all day, with several ideas and innovations helping us lead healthier, more active working lives?

Standing desks

One tried and tested piece of equipment that helps employees be more active is the sit-stand desk. It is particularly popular in Sweden, where more than 90 per cent of workers switch between sitting and standing while they work.

It has been shown to lead to healthier employees, but the perks aren’t just physical. One direct mental health benefit to sit-stand working, is decision control. Allowing workers to feel in control of their workspace, and even just having the freedom to sit or stand, has been proven to drastically improve mental health at work.

Research shows standing desks lead to fewer sick days, greater productivity and better mental health – and they can even cure back pain.

Height-adjustable meeting tables

When you stand, you feel more empowered and confident. So it makes sense that standing meetings are becoming popular. The biggest perk seems to be meetings that are 40 per cent shorter and 25 per cent more productive.

Moving around among colleagues stimulates one’s mind and gives a different perspective of work. Of course, we all need to sit together sometimes, so having the flexibility to move the height of the table is key. Feeling that you are confined to a space creates pressure over time. This can be relieved by having the freedom to alter your workspace.

Treadmill desks

Not sitting is good, but after a while, standing can get tiring. For most, a slow walk is more comfortable. If you move around rather than just standing, this helps to improve your heart, muscles and blood flow.

According to a 2014 study, walking also improves productivity. Though earlier studies found treadmill desks caused a dip in productivity, particularly in work that involves the motor neuron part of the brain, such as motion.

Constant-motion seats

Standing desks, treadmill desks, and adjustable meeting tables are all great for office workers. But what about people whose jobs literally require them to sit still all day?

A recent study on back pain in patients who sat for long periods of time looked into whether fitting a constantly moving seat helped combat their health issues. The results showed workers whose backs were pushed into constant motion experienced less back pain and lethargy.

Fidget toys

Always fidgeting? Well, don’t stop. One study shows people who spend most of the day sitting can undo the damage to their health by fidgeting. So, if your colleague is constantly tapping their feet, bouncing in their seat or doing a jig — join in, it’s good for you.