Desky Single LED Gaming Monitor Arm Overview

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Desky Sit Stand Pedestal Desk For Small Spaces

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Desky Sit Stand Pro Active Stool Overview

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Desky Under Desk Drawer Assembly

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Desky Air Lift Zero Sit Stand Desk Assembly

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Desky Air Lift Zero Sit Stand Desk Overview

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How To Use A Standing Desk Correctly

Many have now made the switch from static to standing desks, but there is still some debate about how best they should be used. This means that many owners of standing desks are still not 100% sure how to utilise them correctly. The benefits of standing desk use are well known. Using a standing desk effectively can promote good health and save you from pain and strains, and boost your productivity. So it's a shame that some aren't getting the most from their sit-stand desk.

Here we've provided some guidelines you can follow when using a standing desk, so you can reap all the health benefits whether sitting or standing. We’ll also give you some posture tips, and show you how to use your desk to avoid pain. We’ll advise on how long you should spend standing, and finding the perfect height for your desk, so you can get all the standing desk benefits going, to make sure you're healthy and pain-free for years to come.

How To Use A Standing Desk While Sitting

Some people think that so long as they are alternating between sitting and standing with a height adjustable desk, they don’t need to be so careful with their seated position. Even if you sit and stand at work, you could be missing out on some of the health benefits. You can still cause strains and backaches from a poor seated posture, even if you're not spending long periods sitting.

Below are some tips on how to work safely in a seated position.

Use An Ergonomic Chair

Ergonomic chairs are designed to cushion and support the load-bearing areas of your body. The overuse of these areas causes pain and over time can lead to chronic conditions, even if you only spend relatively short amounts of time seated. A chair with adjustable back and lumbar support should be the minimum.

A fully adjustable ergonomic chair allows you to set up so your unique body shape is supported where it’s needed. Adjustable tilt, armrests and neck support should help make sure you maintain the perfect seated posture. It will also allow you to position yourself perfectly relative to your desk and screen.

Find The Perfect Position

The way that you sit and are supported is super important, but it’s how you sit relative to your desk, keyboard and monitor which really makes the difference. The correct position should help to avoid neck pain, lower back pain and stop you from developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

First you should find the correct seating position:

• Use the adjustable parameters to find the most comfortable seated position, so you can feel your back is supported.
• Set yourself up so you are sat with your feet perfectly flat on the floor, with your knees around 3 inches from the edge of your seat.
• Your trunk should be at an angle of around 100-120 degrees relative to your thighs.

Once you have your seat set up, it’s time to find the best position relative to your desk. Standing desks allow you to find the perfect height. Pull into your desk and raise or lower until your forearms are resting on the desk. Here’s what you’re looking for:

• Your arms are close to your body, with your forearms at a 90-degree angle to your body.
• Your hands reach the middle of your keyboard without stretching.
• It’s ok if your fingers hover slightly over the keys, but your forearms should be supported by either the armrests on your chair or your desk. Your wrists should not be bending downwards.
• The top of your monitor should be 2-3 inches above eye level. This helps keep the neck and spine in a natural position.

Position Your Monitor

If you have the rest of your position right but your monitor is too low, or high even, then you will need to find a way to reposition your monitor. If it’s too low, a monitor arm may work, or if you’re feeling low-tech, a pile of books might do it. We would recommend this for an office set up though!

For maximum control, you should consider using a dedicated monitor arm, which allows you a greater range of flexibility in positioning. They have the distinct advantage of creating space on your standing desk, which is a welcome side product! If you use multiple monitors, then a dual monitor arm is by far the best way of positioning your monitors, and allows you to easily chop and change as you vary tasks.

Multi-Screen Setups

If you have a primary monitor, you should set it up as described above, with your secondary screen just to one side. However, if you are frequently switching or using both you should position them in an arc. The join between the two monitors is the point at which you judge your eye level, and position yourself relative to your keyboard.

Arrange your desk

Screen placement is important, but so is the placement of your keyboard and mouse, and everything else on your standing desk. Your keyboard should be directly in front of you as you sit face on. You should have your mouse mat or trackpad as close to the keyboard as possible to avoid twisting or placing strain on your wrists.

Take Breaks And Change Position Frequently

One of the best ways to relieve strain on muscle groups is simply to stop straining them. This is especially true of the back. So changing your position during the day can help. This can mean getting up and walking around, or taking short breaks just to sit back with your arms away from the keyboard.

The best way of alternating position, as we all know, is using a standing desk. The body is designed neither to sit nor stand, but to move, and the act of changing position itself is beneficial. Moving position frequently, and taking breaks, is thought to be the best for your health.

How To Use A Standing Desk While Standing

Working while standing is alien to many, conditioned as we are to the more sedentary approach that has been the norm for so long. So it’s no surprise that many people don’t know the best way to approach a standing desk, as strange as that sounds. Standing up at desk spaces is most beneficial in the correct posture, and otherwise can aggravate back pain and cause other problems.

Not many of us are particularly good at maintaining proper posture throughout the day, flat out. That’s why it’s a great idea to be conscious of it while you work, as over time this could improve your posture overall. To do this though, it’s important that you get your standing desk set up correctly, to avoid creating more problems than you solve.

Maintaining Good Posture While Standing

So what is good posture? It’s certainly important, but few of us put enough effort into maintaining it. If you’re going to spend a portion of your workday standing though, it’s crucial that you keep it in mind.

Below are a few pointers that should help you maintain a good standing posture:

• Your weight should be mostly on the balls (or back) of your feet.
• Your knees should be slightly bent, and your feet shoulder-width apart.
• You should be stood up straight, with your shoulder pulled back slightly.
• Your stomach should be tucked in.
• Your neck should be straight. The ideal position has your earlobes in line with your shoulders. You should not be stooped nor have your chin protruding.

What Is The Right Height For Your Sit Stand Desk?

Of course, there is no one answer to this question. The correct height for your sit-stand desk is going to depend on how tall you are, and to a lesser extent the shoes you wear, if any. To find the best position for your desk, stand in front of your desk, being mindful of your posture, with back and neck straight and shoulders back. Slowly raise it until you can rest your forearms flat on the desktop, with your elbows bent at 90 degrees.

As with the seated position, but perhaps even more important when standing, you should have your wrists flat with your fingers either on or hanging down onto the keys. If your wrist is inclined or declined you are in the wrong position, so you should adjust the height of your desk. You should be able to comfortably use your keyboard and mouse without stretching.

It’s important to get this right, as working with your wrists bent compresses the joint. This is what, over time, can develop into what is known as carpal tunnel syndrome, a chronic complaint which causes pain and renders many incapable of working.

Position Your Screen

As with your seated posture, your eye level should be a few inches below the top of your screen, so you can maintain a natural neck position. You might find that the position needs altering slightly between sitting and standing, but you shouldn’t need to make major adjustments. If you do, you may have your desk at the wrong level.

Tips To Avoid Body Pain While Standing

Shift Your Weight and Change Position Frequently

Shifting your weight from heel to toe and foot to foot can help with both pain in your feet, and relieve strain on other muscle groups. Try varying your standing position slightly from time to time. Anything that helps share the strain across different muscle groups will reduce aches and pains.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Choosing a pair of shoes that properly support your feet and are padded can make all the difference. This will also help you to maintain your posture and should reduce any aches and pains you experience when standing for long periods.

Use An Anti Fatigue Mat

An anti-fatigue mat is designed to help cushion your feet and promote blood flow, which helps your sore feet and legs, and helps fight tiredness. An anti fatigue mat also helps with movement, keeping you active by encouraging slight changes of position.

Try a leaning stool

If you're standing for long periods throughout the day, a sit stand active stool can help you take the strain off periodically. Leaning or wobble stools are good for strengthening the core, which could help improve your posture.

Don’t stand all day

It is important that you try and achieve a good mix of sitting and standing during the day. Standing all day can have drawbacks just as sitting can, so finding the right balance for you is the key. Changing position throughout the day relieves strain, alleviates back pain and promotes blood flow. Sitting in an ergonomic chair can also help avoid back pain.

How Long Should You Stand At A Standing Desk?

Using a standing desk is most beneficial when you alternate between sitting and standing. To get the full benefits of your standing desk, you need to figure out your ideal standing time. There is quite a lot of debate about in which ratio the stand desk benefits us most, and the truth is it's probably slightly different for everyone.

Standing for prolonged periods is known to increase discomfort, so if you've ever wondered if you really should use a standing desk all day, the answer is probably no. The same is true of sitting, and most experts agree that switching position frequently is most beneficial. The exact ratio or timings though are a matter of debate. The conventional approach is to allocate 30 mins of each hour as standing time. With some studies suggesting a much higher ratio of sitting to standing of 1:3, it's not 100% clear.

As a general rule though, if you switch between sitting and standing at least once every hour, as you feel most comfortable, you should achieve a good balance. You'll also benefit from the transition, which is vital to keep you active and your system firing. Check out Desky's range of sit stand desks today and improve your health!

References:

https://acatoday.org/content/posture-power-how-to-correct-your-body-alignment

https://edition.cnn.com/2019/09/12/health/standing-desks-tips-myths-facts-wellness/index.html

https://ergonofis.com/blogs/news/how-to-use-my-sitstand-desk-correctly

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321084

https://edition.cnn.com/2019/09/12/health/standing-desks-tips-myths-facts-wellness/index.html

https://uwaterloo.ca/kinesiology/how-long-should-you-stand-rather-sit-your-work-station

source https://desky.com.au/blogs/news/how-to-use-a-standing-desk-correctly

Desky Dual LED Gaming Monitor Arm Overview

Watch video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/R62yp_D3IuA

Desky Single Sit Stand Desk Assembly

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4 IKEA Standing Desk Alternatives That Look Better & Don't Wobble!

If you’re thinking of investing in a new desk, you might be tempted to try and save yourself some money. However, it’s worth thinking carefully before you take the plunge. Could you be sacrificing stability and performance in your rush to save some cash? IKEA are the kings of budget office furniture, but can you apply this to standing desks?

Standing desks have very specific requirements and although cutting costs is tempting, it’s no good if the desk you end up with isn’t fit for purpose.

Is The Ikea Standing Desk Good?

When IKEA jumped into the market with not one but two new products, many home workers rubbed their hands together. After all, many had wanted to join the standing revolution, but with many standing desk options out of their price range, surely this was a chance to try a standing desk without the outlay?

Standing desks need to be engineered and designed expertly to ensure stability, and the technology involved isn't cheap. But the existing desks on the market were relatively expensive, and the IKEA desks promised to deliver at a lower price point. But are they actually any good?

IKEA SKARSTA Standing Desk

IKEA's SKARSTA standing desk offers a manual alternative to the more common electric standing desks, with a crank handle used to lower and raise the desk. Other than this the desk is as basic as you can make a desk. One major drawback is the lack of a power bank, cable management, or storage. This can create problems: laptop users will find that the lack of power and cable management means their cables and potentially the heavy convertor on their lead is hanging from the table at full height.

The SKARSTA is simply a particleboard topped desktop on a simple crank-operated frame. The desktop itself is sturdy enough, and other than this everything is made of metal. A range of colours are available. In use, the crank system is labour intensive, with a lot of cranking required to reach full height. It will at least match your existing office furniture (if you shop at IKEA).

IKEA BEKANT Sit Stand Desk

With the Bekant IKEA branched out into the electric standing desk arena. The Bekant features a simplified lift system, with up and down functions. The desktop is again in melamine with a particleboard top. It is good looking, with a range of different colours and finishes available.

Unfortunately, it seems the drive to make the desk easy to build has compromised stability, with many users complaining about the attachments used to secure the desktop to the frame. The BEKANT does have integrated cable management, but no power bank.

The low powered motors have a relatively low weight capacity of around 70kg, and this creates wobble when the desk is raised with any significant weight loaded. Many users felt unsafe loading this much gear onto their table. Even worse, the motors in one or both legs are prone to failure, leading to the whole product line being recalled. The Bekant desk promised a lot, but with an underpowered desk frame leaving many users unable to raise and lower their desk, it hasn't delivered.

Manual Height Adjustable Standing And Sit Stand Desks

The Desky Air Lift Zero is a manually adjustable platform with a difference, using pneumatic power to control the desk’s height. This saves endless cranking, which although not bad exercise, is certainly not ideal during a busy workday. With Air Lift, a simple push of a lever is enough to change the height of your desk.

Fitted with a reinforced crossbar to maintain stability, the heavy-duty particleboard desktop comes in at an impressive 145cm x 73cm. Despite this, the Air Lift Zero maintains total stability, mounted on a modified version of Desky's standard class-leading frame.

Although it has a slightly higher price tag than the SKARSTA, for the level of performance it is well worth it. Stability is absolutely key when investing in a standing desk, and the Air Lift guarantees this in use and in transition.

Best Cheap Electric Sit Stand Desk

The Desky Single Electric sit stand desk incorporates all the expertise used in the build of their other desks, but in a smaller, more affordable package. Compared to the BEKANT it offers reliability, and superior lifting power, for a very similar price. It also features integrated cable management, and a much more useful electronic lift system featuring 4 programmable memory presets. It is operated with a handheld controller.

The other major plus is the stability. With a total lack of shake in everyday use, the powerful motor is capable of shifting up to 8kg easily. With a transition speed of 38mm/s, and super-quiet operation, it's heads and shoulders above it's IKEA counterpart.

Why are standing desks so expensive?

Standing desks are expensive because the stability and lifting power required doesn't come cheap. Not only do standing desks require top quality materials, they need powerful, smooth motors which don't fail, and can keep your desk 100% stable when changing positions.

As illustrated by the problems with the BEKANT, cutting costs simply doesn't work. That said, the Desky Single Electric Sit Stand Desk works out as only a little more than the IKEA version, but provides much better stability, lift and usability.

Are sit/stand desks worth it?

Yes standing desks are worth it, with a host of health and productivity-related benefits. Using one can help ease or prevent back pain, and help you to maintain a healthy posture. Changing positions during the day has been linked with a host of health benefits from standing desks, and keeping active can help you fight obesity and related health problems, while improving blood flow, well being and productivity.

Standing Desks For Small Spaces

Another affordable option, this Desky Pedestal Standing Desk has the same lifting power as the Single Electric, but is much more compact and ideal for smaller spaces and those who only work from home on occasion.

Mounted on a super stable aluminium base, adjustable feet allow you to place it wherever you need it without compromising usability. A height range of 62 - 128cm should suit most people. Like all Desky products what really stands out is the stability, and the impressive speed and smoothness with which it transitions. The only drawback is the reduced desktop size. Also works out cheaper than the IKEA electric desk.

How Do You Make A Home Office In A Small Space?

Pedestal desks are ideal for making a home office in a small space, and allow you to easily convert a space into an office for the day if you only work from home occasionally. With many of us now creating home offices with limited space, a pedestal is a great solution for those who want to bring stand up working into their home.

Custom Standing Desk

The Desky Dual Melamine Height Adjustable Desk is the complete package, with a weight capacity , stability and usability that is unrivalled. With a super tough melamine desktop, available in a range of size and color options, this is as robust as any desk out there. The largest desktop this can support is 1800 x 750, so this needs some real power. Luckily, the two legs are each fitted with a powerful motor capable of raising the desk from 60-125cm at 36mm/s, without shake or wobble.

The solid frame construction ensures this is a market leader in terms of stability, in use or transition. The same hand controller system with 4 programmable settings is employed, so you can save your ideal settings for ease of use. Cable management and power options are available, so none of the cable issues present with both IKEA desks here.

The custom compares favourably to all of the standing desk options available. Although more expensive than both of the IKEA products, you can be 100% certain this will not fail, and it has a distinct advantage over the SKARSTA in that it has motors (no cranking). Compared to the BEKANT, this is clearly a much superior desk, beating it on stability, and crucially reliability.

Electric Height Adjustable Gaming PC Desk

The requirements for a sit stand gaming desk are slightly different, but increasingly gamers are coming online to the health benefits a standing desk can bring them. The Desky Alpha Dual Gaming Desk is designed to bring all of the power and stability of the other desks into a product which speaks to gamers. Larger, more powerful and more stable than both the IKEA desks, this has the advantage of being designed with gamers and their needs in mind.

The Ergo Edge design allows the user to get closer into the action, which allows for better wrist support, helping lower the chances of developing RSI like carpal tunnel syndrome. Everything else you would expect is present: two powerful motors fitted into the frame ensure your set up is safe when changing heights, and with a speed of 36mm/s you can move from bottom to top in around 10 secs.

If you're looking to upgrade, Desky has a range of alternatives to the IKEA duo, boasting superior stability, great shipping and customer service, but above all, reliability. If the above don't work for you, check out the full range and we're sure you'll find something that fits your needs.

source https://desky.com.au/blogs/news/ikea-standing-desk-alternatives

Home Office Setup Guide: Work From Home Like A Pro

With the coronavirus crisis seeing many of us make the change from office-based to home working, home offices are suddenly springing up all over the country. Most of them have been put together in a hurry - but your work environment is too important to be just thrown together. A well-constructed home office will not only make your days more pleasant: it could boost your productivity, improve your health, and help stave off the many health complications that can come from spending so long at the desk. 

Poorly thought out workplaces can lead to strains, back problems, and a host of other issues and complications. But knowing how to avoid these pitfalls isn’t easy: that’s why there is a whole industry dedicated to our health and well-being at work. If you're not a professional in home office design though, we’ve put together this guide to help you build your home office. 

How Do You Make A Home Office?

For many, the home office won’t differ so much from the workspace you’re used to travelling to. That means that the same rules apply, and you’ll need basically the same equipment. That said, when imagining home office setups, it’s useful to think about what has and hasn’t worked at the workstations you’ve worked at previously. This is, after all, an opportunity for you to build your ultimate work area, so there’s no reason to be limited in your thinking. It’s a great opportunity to try something new. 

Here are the bare bones you'll need to start building your home office:

Computer and Wi Fi

We're going to go out on a limb here and say that if you're building a home office, you probably already have some computer equipment. If you don't, now's the time to buy a desktop PC, pronto! And if you don't have Wi Fi, it's probably time to get internet access.

Desk

Your desk is the building block of the home office. Without it, your computer or laptop has nowhere to rest, and you have nowhere to work. There are many options on the market, from the humble computer desk right through to the versatile sit-stand desk varieties.

You ideally need a desk which allows you to find the optimum position to keep good posture. Postural issues can cause back pain and RSI, so avoiding this is key to maintaining your wellbeing while working. 

A height-adjustable desk will allow for this and give you the option to alternate between sitting and standing during the day. With home work presenting less opportunities to get up during the day, keeping active is doubly important.

Ergonomic Chair or Stool

An adjustable ergonomic desk chair which supports the lumbar area, the upper back and the neck is crucial for long hours at the desk. There is also a range of stools and active seats we’ll cover later which can help you stay active during the day, and boost your productivity. 

Accessories, Storage and Everything Else

Standing anti-fatigue mats, headphone stands, filing cabinets ... The list of possible additions is endless. What's essential to you will depend on what you do exactly, but below we've listed some of the key things you might need to complete your pro set up.

What Is The Best Way To Set Up Home Office?

The best setup for your home office is going to depend a lot on the type of work you do, but probably a lot more on how much space you have available. If you’re wondering how to make a home office in a small space, your needs are quite different from those lucky enough to have a dedicated office space. 

If you work with drawings you will need a set up which incorporates a drafting table, for example. And if your work requires you to use multiple monitors, you will need to factor this into your thinking. You will know best how much desk space you require, and how much of the day you are likely to spend seated or standing. 

What is true for all professions though is that a set up which keeps you free from pain and injuries is crucial. That means you should choose ergonomic, adjustable chairs, and ideally a desk which allows you to change position and keep active during the workday. 

Where Should I Put My Home Office?

If you have a guest room in your home, this is the obvious candidate. Ideally, you want a space where you can close the door behind you and get on, which is especially true if you have children in the house. 

For many of us, it is a case of needs must when choosing where to put an office at home. With the right equipment, some rearrangement, and a little bit of creativity, you can make a viable workspace in most rooms.

With a bit of imagination, you may well find your bedroom or living room can be turned into an office area, permanently or just once in a while. And you’ll be surprised how convincing it will feel once you’ve kitted it out with all the right equipment. If you only occasionally need a space to do your business expenses, we have ideas for you too.

The important thing is that you create a work environment that works for your needs. Building your own workspace puts you firmly in control of the user experience, and you'll know best what works for you.

What Equipment Do I Need To Work From Home?

Height Adjustable Desk

Height adjustable, or sit-stand desks have revolutionised the way we work. With sedentary lifestyles causing a spike in health issues, many of us have turned to the lifestyle changing powers of sit-stand working. And if you’re putting together a truly world-class home office set up, then we think you should do the same. 

But why exactly should you choose a standing desk for your home office setup? 

When working from home we tend to work longer hours, and we get up less. That’s because there’s no one to speak to at the water cooler, and fewer distractions in general. This means there’s a danger that in our home offices we become even more sedentary than we were in the office. When you consider that office-based work and inactivity has been shown to have links to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and a whole host of other serious medical conditions, it’s a bad outlook. 

However, building your home office around a standing desk can help keep you active and in turn help prevent these problems. Standing up 30 mins out of every hour has been shown to promote blood flow, and burns more calories than sitting. 

Back pain, neck pain and RSI’s are all conditions related to bad posture, but also to maintaining a stationary position. Many instances of lower back pain, upper back problems and neck strain are caused by simply staying still for too long. By varying our position, we relieve the strain on various muscle groups, preventing long term problems. 

Sit stands allow you to change position easily throughout the day, either by standing periodically or just varying the height.  Standing for at least part of the day has been shown to boost productivity and wellbeing. Increased blood flow will keep your energy levels high, and it’s also been linked to lowering blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. 

Adjustable Height Desk Features:

Here are some things to look out for: 

• Stability and Wobble - Make sure you buy one that is stable in use, but also in transition between heights (to protect your computer equipment).
• Programmable Heights - An electronic system which allows you to save your optimum heights is ideal.
• Cable Management - Keeping your cables out of the way reduces clutter and trip hazards. Ideally should have a separate channel for your ethernet cable or other data cables.

Ergonomic Chairs 

Every workspace needs a great chair, and whether you decide to boss it in an executive chair or have your eye on the slightly more humble office chair, the same principles apply. Whatever chair you go for, you need maximum flexibility and adjustability to ensure you can attain the perfect work position. Here are a few features to look for in an ergonomic chair. If you need more info on picking the best ergonomic chair for your home setup, see the guide we wrote.

To keep you back in good shape you need a chair which allows you to fit to your frame and the shape of your spine. Make sure your chair has adjustable back height and lumbar support is the minimum, with adjustable neck support and headrest ideal. 

To find the correct position relative to your monitor and webcam, you need a chair which can be set to height easily. Tilt allows you to find the perfect angle to workstation too, so you can work in the height of comfort and safety. 

Consider A Mesh Back 

When the hot weather sets in you’ll thank yourself for choosing a chair with mesh back. Not only is it great for airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable, but mesh provides great support for the back. Gets extra points for looking great! 

Monitor Stand / Monitor Arms 

Your monitors are your window on your world of work, and they’re most likely to be your focus for the majority of the work day. So getting your monitor set up right is obviously going to be very important. 

If you’re going to keep your home office space as ergonomically sound as possible and save yourself from postural issues, then the placement of your monitor or monitors are key. You need to make sure your monitor is directly in front of you, with your eye level a few inches below the top of the screen. With a stand-alone monitor this can be difficult to achieve, but luckily there are a host of options to help you find the right spot. 

If you have the space, a monitor stand can do the job. If you want more desk space and greater flexibility of movement though, consider building a monitor arm into your set up. They normally clamp onto the back of your desktop, saving on desktop space, and allowing you a much wider range of positions. 

Multiple Monitors and iMacs

For multiple monitor set ups, dual monitor arms are available allowing you to position your monitors in near-infinite arrangements, and freeing up twice the desk space! If you work on Mac, there are even arms available which are customised to support the weight of the iMac with specialised fittings. 

Keyboard 

A good keyboard is a must. You'll know what you prefer when selecting a keyboard, but we recommend choosing something as slim as possible, as this allows you to keep your mouse or trackpad tucked in closer, which minimises twisting as you work.

Mouse and Mouse Pad

There's nothing in this world more frustrating than a sticky mouse, so choosing your mouse and mouse pad wisely could add years to your life! It's worth noting that many desks have trackable surfaces so this is worth thinking about when choosing a desktop.

Headphones

Useful for blocking out background noise or for some motivating music, a high-quality set of headphones is a must for the home office. Even better if you sometimes double up and game at your workstation too. 

To complete the set up, a headphone stand will keep your gear safe and your office looking slick. 

Phone Stands and Holders

Unlike the traditional office setup, when working from home it's likely our cell phone is now our full-time work phone. Having a dedicated cell phone holder on your workspace not only allows you to keep it safe between uses, it means you can multitask, and video conference while you work.

Computer Speakers

If like many of us you enjoy music while you work, working from home is an amazing excuse to turn up the volume. However, if you’re packed away in the spare room away from your HiFi, you’re going to need a set of computer speakers. Luckily, the audio quality of these little guys has shot up over recent years, so there’s no need to install a new stereo in your office. 

Webcam 

A good quality webcam is becoming a must-have now that video conferencing is becoming the norm. Incorporating a dedicated webcam into your home office means you’ll be crystal clear for all of your meetings, and of course whenever you need to catch up with your family and friends. 

Microphone

Also a must, if you want to get your point across you need your colleagues to be able to hear you. Investing in a good quality microphone should mean you never get talked over again. 

Pedestal Desks

Pedestal desks are perfect if you’re short on space or if you only home work occasionally. As they have such a small footprint, you can easily convert your living room into a sit-stand office for the day. Definitely worth thinking about if you need a home office you can pack away or if you are especially short on space. 

Laptop Risers

Keeping the correct posture is more difficult when working from a laptop. This is why you should consider a laptop riser to your set up if possible. Coupled with an additional keyboard, you can still achieve the correct posture without investing in a new PC! Alternatively, an external monitor can be used and elevated to the correct eye level. 

Storage Space

Even in the so-called paperless office, we still sometimes need to keep files. We definitely need places to put our clutter. And if your workspace is lacking in room, the need becomes much greater. Luckily you can find a range of pedestal file cabinets and clever storage options to help keep your space as tidy as possible.

How Can I Improve My Work From Home Setup?

If you follow our guide above, you should be able to create a workspace that's perfect for you, no matter what room you decide to build it in. If you're looking for some ideas to improve your environment even further though, below are a few ideas to really bring your space to life.

Lighting

How you light your space can make all the difference in your work room, so if possible choose a room with lots of natural light. If not, make sure you have plenty of lamps to prevent yourself from straining, without having to sit under the glare of the main lights. When working at a computer, it is sometimes advisable to have the light a little lower, so if you're relying on synthetic light, a light with a dimmer switch is ideal.

Make it feel like home

We've probably all had to work in some pretty sterile workplaces in the past, but building a home office empowers you to put a bit of your own style into your workspace. Remember that this is part of your home, and not just a functional space.

Consider a Sit Stand Desk

If you're still using a static platform, one of the best ways to improve your home office is to install a standing desk. Keeping active is more important than ever, and the health and productivity benefits associated with a standing work style are not in doubt. So installing one of these sit stand desks from Desky could improve your life, not just your home office. Check out our full range of desks today!

source https://desky.com.au/blogs/news/home-office-desk-setup-guide

What's The Best Gaming Desk Setup?

 

Any gamer knows that the right setup can make all the difference in the hyper-competitive world of online gaming. Whether you’re a hobbyist or an aspiring pro, you still want the gaming desk that allows you to be at your best. A gaming desk that works the best for you and your style is key. Only then you can you fully relax and do your best gaming.

Of all setups, gaming desktops are the hardest to get right. You need a safe cool spot for your gaming PC. You want your pc setup for the best gaming performance. The placement of your monitors is killer. But of course, the positioning of your keyboard and mouse pad is also important. You want your audio equipment placed so you get the full immersive experience. And all of this arranged in a way that gives you the maximum flexibility and access. 

And there are so many types of gaming desk to choose from. Some people will prefer a normal gaming desk, some will opt for an L shaped desk, and for others stand up gaming desks will be best. Then you need to consider your cable management. And that's only the beginning.

Because as important as both performance and your gaming experience undoubtedly are, they’re not the only things you need to bear in mind when putting together your gaming desk.

Because along with the growing popularity of sports, we've seen a marked increase in gaming-related injuries. A range of RSI and postural problems have been associated with extended periods spent gaming. Carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, mouse elbow, lower back problems and sciatica are just a handful of the ailments gamers have reported. 

The good news is, by designing your gaming set up with ergonomic principles in mind, and choosing the right desk, you can greatly minimise the risk of strain and injury. Meaning you will be able to carry on gaming for years to come. The bad news is, however, that balancing all of these priorities won’t be easy. And that’s exactly why we prepared this guide to help you achieve your best gaming desk setup. 

What is the best desk for gaming?

If you've ever tried to game with your old computer desk, you'll know what we mean. The one thing you can’t do without when building your set up is a great desk. After all, this will provide the foundation for all of your equipment, and so, just like building a house, you need to get this fundamental element right. Only then can you get the best gaming experience from your setup.

With so many gaming desks available, which to choose? The best gaming desk will be the one that works best for you. There are lots of things options and things to consider when choosing your game desk. 

How Long Should My Gaming Desk Be?

Maximising the surface area and desk space available to you is key when deciding on a setup, and when choosing a gaming desk. You need to leave ample room on your gaming desk for the mouse and keyboard, extra controllers, and anything else you might want handy for an extended period of gaming. 

This leads to L shaped gaming desks. They have a whole other surface where you can attach or place an extra computer monitor, or anything else you might need. But for those who prefer a normal gaming desk configuration, you can increase the surface area of your gaming station using monitor arms.

Is A Sit/Stand Gaming Desk Worth It?

The answer to this question is to some extent down to preference. Some gamers just don’t enjoy gaming standing up, and so for them of course, it is not. However, the benefits of standing desks are clear for all to see, especially for those of us who spend extended periods of time at our gaming desks.  

With gaming-related injuries on the rise, a standing desk could be the difference between you gaming long term or retiring early. The most common ailments amongst gamers are postural, caused by spending long periods in one position. And an adjustable height desk could help prevent this. The ability to change positions allows you to change the muscle groups being used and relieve strain, lowering the risk of injury significantly.

But that’s not all an adjustable height gaming desk could offer to your set up. Changing position and spending at least some of your time upright promotes blood flow, lessening fatigue and increasing focus. Many gamers now prefer to stand and game as it's also easier to switch from monitor to monitor. And if you’re worried that changing position will affect your gaming, you shouldn’t. Standing desks are designed to transition smoothly in seconds, so the only difference you’ll notice is the height. 

Cable Management

A good set up will require it’s fair share of cabling, so choosing a gaming desk with cable management built-in is a great idea. Not only does cabling completely kill the look of your set up: it’s also a real hazard. The last thing you want to be doing it tripping headlong into your new gaming desk, so make sure your cables are properly packed away. If you have a desk already, you can buy cable management systems on their own.

Monitor Arms

Monitor arms offer so much that they are almost essential in our book. They allow you to free up valuable desktop space, as your monitor or monitors are no longer sitting on there. More importantly, though they allow you way more flexibility of positioning, so you can position them not close to, but exactly where you need them. With multiple monitors, you can achieve a near endless amount of combinations. 

What is the best Ergonomic chair for gaming?

Whether you’re sitting the whole time or mixing it up, your gaming computer chair is just as important as your gaming desk. To enjoy your gaming the most you want a chair so comfortable you hardly notice your sitting down at all. You need flexibility of movement, especially if you plan to use multiple screens. And of course, you want something that looks great with your desktop and set up. 

Below are just a few of the things to look for when choosing a gaming chair. See our Choosing An Ergonomic Chair guide for more info.

Full Range Of Movement And Tilt

Even though we know the game isn’t real, most of us will react physically, as if it is. If you’ve ever jumped back in your seat while gaming or leaned into a corner on a racing game, you know what I’m talking about. So movement isn’t just important, it’s part of the experience. 

If you have multiple monitors, the action can be coming from all sides. So a key consideration when choosing your gaming chair is the range and ease of movement it allows. Ideally, you don’t want to be leaping out of your seat or twisting your spine to switch screens. Normal office chairs simply won't do it. You need a chair with full and smooth swivel action, as well as tilt for when you rock backwards or forwards, is essential. 

Fully Adjustable

To achieve the perfect position, you need a chair that has a full range of adjustable parameters. You need an adjustable height seat, adjustable back height, and lumbar support, so you can find the optimum position for both your gaming and your spine. 

Ergonomic Design and Lumbar Support

There’s no doubt that choosing a chair designed with your body in mind will benefit you, your gaming, and your well-being. Comfort is essential if you are to enjoy your gaming to the fullest. But so is protecting your body from the rigours of gaming. A chair that allows you to sit in the most natural position, and offers lumbar support, will help to prevent the postural problems seen among many gamers and esports professionals.  

How Do You Set Up A Gaming Desk?

As no two gaming setups and no two gaming desks are identical, there’s no one answer we can give you to this question. How exactly you set up will depend on many factors, including where your gaming desk will live, your specific gaming needs, and your budget. 

Below are just a few of the things to think about when choosing a gaming desk, to help you find the ultimate setup:

Gaming Desktop

When choosing your gaming desktop, tread carefully. Gaming desks need to take a lot of punishment. So even safety glass might not be up to the job. Make sure your desktop is tough, and doesn't damage easily. Assuming you can't afford carbon fiber, a solid wooden desk is normally the toughest and most stable option.

Know your space 

The size and scope of your set up will of course be defined by the space you have available. However, there are a few things you can do to maximise your space. Top of the list is the L shaped desk, which is ideal if you have a corner space available, allowing you to maximise the capacity of your gaming room. 

Also consider how much available room on the desktop you require. If you don’t have enough space for an L shaped desk, you could consider elevating your monitors to open up desk space. 

Think about comfort 

Comfort, and your wellbeing, should be at the forefront of your thinking. After all, there’s no point in building a set up which you can no longer use because you’re injured. Using a sit-stand desk can be a huge help in keeping yourself free of strains and injuries. It also allows you to keep the blood pumping and the metabolism active, keeping you alert and focussed.  

Invest in Cable Management

Cabling is essential, but it’s also much better out of sight. Investing in a desk with a cable management system built-in saves a huge amount of time and hassle inventing your own, and prevents the risk of tripping, or worse … the power being cut mid-session. It also makes the area around your desk much easier to clean, and looks way better that way. 

Think about your extras

You've left space for your mouse pad. But what about your gaming headsets, the charging station, a cup holder, a camera for streaming: there's a whole host of extras you might want to accommodate, so make sure you have space for everything before you commit to a gaming desk.

How Can I Improve My Gaming Setup?

If still using an old computer desk, then buying a new desk is a must. If you already have a setup that you’re looking to upgrade, or if your current desktop is simply irreplaceable, you might want to consider buying a standing desk frame to fit it to. Yes, they can be purchased as a stand-alone item. Generally very easy to fit, you could transform your gaming desk.

If space is an issue on your gaming desk, elevating your monitors could well be the solution you’re looking for. Not only do you get more space: there’s a whole host of other benefits. Which leads us neatly to our next point. 

How Do You Set Up A Display For A Gaming Desk?

Setting up your monitors is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when building your set up. Your positioning will depend on how many monitors will be used on the gaming desk. If you’re only using one, of course, it’s a little simpler, but there is still a lot to think about.

In terms of your main (or only) monitor, it should always be set up so it is on your direct eye level and directly in front of you as you will be facing the desk. You want the monitor to be about an arm’s length from your eyes. A monitor arm will give you more flexibility, help with your cable management, and free up space on your desk or desks. If you use a multi-monitor setup, they really come into their own, but they are just as useful with single monitor setups.

How Much Should I Spend on my Gaming Setup?

How much you should spend on your gaming desk and setup depends a great deal on your budget and your personal needs. At Desky, our fixed pc gaming desks start at an affordable $249.00, but you can spend up to $2500 if you want adjustable height, corner style and the very best set up available. If you only need to add a few parts to optimise your existing set up however, it could well work out significantly cheaper. See our full range of standing gaming desks and get an ergonomic gaming desk today!

source https://desky.com.au/blogs/news/best-gaming-desk-setup

8 Benefits of Standing Desks

 

 

Over the past few years, awareness of the dangers of our sedentary lifestyles has grown. The effects are widespread: back, neck and shoulder pain are common complaints in the modern office. Rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and hypertension are rising across the country. 

And the cause might be surprising to many: there is now a consensus in the medical community that sitting all day can be as dangerous for your health as smoking. That might seem a little dramatic: after all, how dangerous can sitting really be? 

Is Sitting Bad For Your Health?

Extended sitting time and poor posture cause back pain and spinal problems, which if left unchecked can develop into chronic conditions. And sedentary lifestyles combined with long work hours can cause diabetes, stroke, heart disease and early death. 

The national health survey reports that 43.7% of us spend the majority of our workday sitting (1). And such extended periods of time seated are clearly bad for us. However, finding clever ways to build more activity into our days can do more than help fight the negatives. It can actually increase your productivity, energy levels, and general wellbeing. 

So clearly sit-stand desks could have a role to play in boosting the nation's health and productivity. But what exactly are the key standing desk benefits? You might be surprised by some of the results. 

Standing Desks Can Help You Lose Weight

Many of the more serious complications related to sedentary lifestyles are caused by people becoming overweight or obese, and studies have found strong trends linking this to increased sitting (2). In 2014-15, 63.4% of Australians were overweight or obese. By 2017-18, this figure had risen to 67%, over two-thirds of the population (3). 

It would seem to many that this is further proof that our bodies simply did not evolve to be sedentary. Of course, we can’t go back to the hunter-gatherer lifestyles for which our bodies are designed. In an increasingly data-driven, online world, many of us are destined to remain tied to our desks. 

The crucial factor could be the desk you remain tied to. A stand up desk or sit-stand desk will allow you to keep on your feet for at least part of the day, which is shown to have real health benefits and aid weight loss. Time spent in moderate to vigorous activity has been shown to have a statistically significant impact on weight gain (4). 

Standing raises the heart rate and can burn as many as 50 calories an hour. So if you spend longer periods of time standing you could see real health benefits. Coupled with dedicated physical activity, a standing desk can have huge benefits in the fight against obesity.

A Standing Desk Could Lower Your Risk of Diabetes

Poor diet, a lack of exercise and obesity are all factors which are known to heighten the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, a study conducted in the UK, which analysed the data of 18 other studies covering a total of 794,577 participants, found that those who sat all day are as much as two times as likely to develop the disease (6). 

Perhaps the starkest finding was that this remains true even for those who take regular exercise. Simply, the act of sitting itself is a big danger factor for diabetes. Standing can be a lifesaver, and this is one of the most important benefits of standing desk use.

How Can A Standing Desk Help with Diabetes?

The reason for this is that extended periods seated seem to cause changes to the metabolism, which affects the production of insulin. In review, Diabetes UK recommended that reducing the time spent sitting or lying down could significantly lower the risk of diabetes (6). And their recommended actions for those at work? To spend at least part of the day standing and keep active. Using a standing desk will make sure of this.

Standing Can Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease

Many studies have made direct links between sedentary work and increased risk of heart disease (7). It is definitely accepted that a lack of exercise can be a contributing factor.  Also, those with diabetes are at an increased risk of heart disease and attack (6). 

So remaining active during the day will help keep you active, burning calories and ensure your metabolism is operating to it’s best. A standing up desk allows you to keep moving, promotes good blood flow and can even help lower cholesterol. All of this in turn will lower the risk of heart disease, related heart complaints and stroke. 

A Standing Desk Could Help You Live Longer

All of this boosts your chances of leading a long, healthy and productive life. By keeping your weight down you can avoid a whole host of serious ailments. 

Sufferers of Type 2 Diabetes are shown to have shorter life expectancy than non-sufferers (8), so using a desk to avoid this and further complications can literally extend your life. This is true for those who already suffer from the disease, with lifestyle factors and level of activity shown to extend the lives and condition for those who make positive health choices. 

And avoiding heart disease, high cholesterol and high blood pressure will add years to your life. An active lifestyle is the best way of avoiding all of these problems, so standing up at desk spaces rather than sitting could well help you live longer. 

Standing Desks Help You Keep Active

Worryingly, not only are many people sitting all day, but they can’t find time between work and family life to fit in enough exercise. Just over half of Australians aged 18-64 (55.4%) are getting the recommended 150 minutes of exercise each week (9). On top of this, many are now adjusting to home working, often with imperfect equipment, and even longer hours. Standing has never been more important.

Of course, a sit stand desk cannot replace physical activity, but it can help. One interesting stat shows that if you combined the figures for exercise shown above with active work hours, this proportion of people hitting the exercise target rises to 65.5% (9). 

So, remaining active at work can help bridge the gap between the exercise we do, and the exercise we need. Office workers don’t have the ‘luxury’ of manual work, so sit stand desks can help you keep moving during the day. This can help even out the deficit in exercise, avoids more serious health complications, promotes blood flow, and has a host of perhaps unexpected health benefits associated with it. 

Standing Increases Your Productivity

Standing during the day, or dividing your time between standing and sitting, has been shown to boost productivity. One study conducted by Texas A&M University’s Health Science Center School of Public Health found significant boosts in both productivity and outcome when surveying subjects in a call centre. Compared to their seated colleagues, after 6 months they registered 53% more successful calls (10). 

Another study on by The University of Leicester tested workers in the UK’s NHS, and reported that the group who switched between sitting and standing showed boosted performance and engagement vs the seated control group (11). 

Although detailed studies into why this happens are not yet complete, it is thought that the increased blood flow, endorphin levels, and relative lack of musculoskeletal pain all combine to boost worker performance. Users report increased energy levels throughout the day. So if you feel you need a boost, a sit stand desk could be the answer you’ve been looking for. 

Standing Desks Boost Your Wellbeing 

This is one of the least known sit stand desk benefits, but is so important. Low energy, pain and poor performance can all adversely affect your mental health. But standing can help. Standing desks can improve your overall health, your performance at work, help promote good blood flow, and keep you energised and free from musculoskeletal pain.

All of which will combine to boost your sense of health and wellbeing. This in turn will help you work better, further increasing your productivity. A happy worker is a productive worker, so boosting your wellbeing could actually advance your career. You can think of using a sit stand desk as a very positive snowball effect, where each day and increased usage feeds into your sense of wellbeing. And who wouldn’t want that. 

Standing Desks Can Relieve Back Pain

Poor posture and related musculoskeletal problems are a huge driver of workplace absenteeism. One of the key benefits of using a standing desk is that it allows you to alter your position during the day, which relieves strain on key muscle groups and allows the body to share the load more easily. This can have a profound effect on back pain.

One study showed that participants reported a 50% decrease in back pain vs their seated co-workers (12).

But that's not all that sit standing desks can offer. Standing more often can increase the strength of your core muscles, which will help support the back, relieve pain and prevent further injury. And even if you don't have back or neck pain, using a standing desk periodically will help prevent you from developing bad posture.

How Long Should I Stand At A Standing Desk?

The jury is out, but the most common pattern is 30 minutes standing out of each hour. If this is uncomfortable you can either increase or decrease your sitting time. At first you should stand less, as your muscles adjust, and slowly ramp up the time you spend standing until you find your level.

Can A Standing Desk Improve My Health?

Sitting for hours a day on end is known to have a host of negative effects on our health. This is why standing desks have so many health benefits, as they negate the destructive effects of our sedentary lifestyles. In a world where time is at a premium, they allow us to keep active whilst we work, saving time and our health. Whether you stand all day, for 30 minutes an hour or hardly at all at first, incorporating standing into your work-life can keep you free from pain, help you lose weight, and avoid the risk of more serious illness. If you're concerned with your health, well-being or productivity, a standing desk could be what you're looking for. Try Desky's range of standing desks today and experience health improvements from increasing your daily activity.

References:

1. https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/4364.0.55.001~2017-18~Main%20Features~Physical%20activity~115
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16005804/
3. https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/Overweight-and-Obesity#:~:text=In%202017%2D18%2C%20the%20Australian,63.4%25%20in%202014%2D15.
4. http://getaustraliastanding.org/pdfs/research/69.pdf
5. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-24532996#:~:text=Stand%2Dup%20guys&text=Now%20that%20doesn't%20sound,or%20around%208lb%20of%20fat.
6. https://www.diabetes.org.uk/about_us/news_landing_page/sitting-for-long-periods-increases-risk-of-type-2-diabetes#:~:text=Sitting%20slows%20down%20metabolism,in%20preventing%20the%20condition%20developing.
7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22890825/
8. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317477#:~:text=A%2055%2Dyear%2Dold%20male,expectancy%20of%20another%2010%20years.
9. https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/4364.0.55.001~2017-18~Main%20Features~Physical%20activity~115
10. https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/standing-desks-boost-productivity-not-just-health-study-finds/2016/05/31/b7948390-2358-11e6-8690-f14ca9de2972_story.html
11. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/standing-desks-work-office-tiredness-productivity-health-benefits-research-nhs-study-sitting-a8578561.html
12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29330230/

source https://desky.com.au/blogs/news/standing-desks-benefits