The Ultimate Guide to Electric Desks: Transform Your Work Life
In Australian offices and homes, we spend an average of 10 hours each day sitting. These changed working conditions and increase in sedentary lifestyle has significant consequences. Safe Work Australia reports that prolonged sitting is one of the leading causes of workplace-related health issues, costing our economy billions annually. Enter the electric desk – a solution that has transformed workspaces across the country.
The Evolution of Office Desks: From Static to Dynamic
Remember the days of fixed-height desks? They were a one-size-fits-all solution in a world where we now know one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Traditional desks forced us into static positions, leading to what health professionals now call “sitting disease.”
“I used to come home with terrible back pain every day,” shares Sarah Mitchell, a Melbourne-based graphic designer. “It was just accepted as part of office life. Looking back, it seems ridiculous that we put up with it for so long.”
The Science Behind Standing: What Australian Researchers Say
Recent research from the University of Queensland found that alternating between sitting and standing can reduce lower back pain by up to 32% over just three months. But the benefits don’t stop there:
– A 2023 study by Deakin University showed a 17% increase in productivity when workers used sit-stand desks
– The Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute in Melbourne found that regular position changes can improve cardiovascular health
– Research from Sydney’s Macquarie University demonstrated a 23% reduction in neck and shoulder tension
Types of Electric Desks: Finding Your Perfect Match
Standard Electric Desks
The most popular choice for both home and office environments, these electric desks offer smooth height adjustment at the touch of a button. The AG Electric Desk exemplifies this category, with its robust design and reliable motor system.
L-Shaped Electric Desks
Perfect for corner spaces and those needing extra workspace, L-shaped configurations like the Desky Dual Melamine Sit Stand Desk offer versatility and style in one package.
Finding Your Perfect Height: The Numbers That Matter
Optimal desk heights vary by user height:
– For people 165-170cm: 68-72cm (sitting), 108-114cm (standing)
– For people 170-180cm: 70-75cm (sitting), 112-118cm (standing)
– For people 180cm+: 73-78cm (sitting), 116-122cm (standing)
Addressing Common Concerns
“Won’t standing all day be just as bad as sitting?”
The key isn’t to stand all day – it’s about movement and variation. Experts recommend changing positions every 30-45 minutes.
“Are they noisy?”
Modern electric desks operate quietly. “You can barely hear ours move,” says Tom Richards, a remote worker from Perth. “I can adjust height during video calls without disrupting conversations.”
“What about space and setup?”
Today’s electric desks come in various configurations to suit any space. From compact single-motor designs to expansive L-shaped workstations, there’s a solution for every environment.
Setting Up for Success: Best Practices
Creating an ergonomic workspace goes beyond just the desk. Consider these tips:
– Position your monitor at arm’s length, with the top at eye level
– Keep your keyboard and mouse at elbow height
– Ensure your feet rest flat on the floor when seated
– Start with short standing periods and gradually increase duration
The Future of Work is Flexible
The importance of adaptable furniture is increasingly important as we spend more time working. Electric desks are a response to the changing reality of workplace health, with the benefit of increased productivity and reduces sick days.
Dr. Sarah Chen from the Melbourne Institute of Ergonomics notes, “The question isn’t whether to invest in adjustable workstations, but rather how quickly organisations can implement them to support their workforce’s wellbeing.”
Making the Switch: Your Next Steps
Consider your working style, space requirements, and daily routine when choosing an electric desk. Whether you opt for the Agile Electric Desk, the Desky Dual Melamine, or the Up Down Pro , the key is making the change toward more dynamic working.
Remember, investing in an electric desk is about investing in your health, productivity, and future wellbeing. As more Australian workplaces embrace this revolution in office furniture, they need to find a reliable supplier who can cater to large orders, and can provide advice on the best product choices.
Abbotts Furniture in Hawthorn in Melbourne has been catering to Melbourne business for 20 years. They provide expert advice and only stock high quality electric sit stand desks and models. Unlike many other office furniture suppliers, Abbotts Furniture has a showroom that customers can visit to view their range. With a choice of online showroom and in store shopping, they provide the ultimate choice for busy workplaces, who want to get the best quality and setup for their staff.