In recent years, the popularity of standing desks in Canada and other countries has surged as more people seek ways to improve their health and well-being in the workplace.

Today, more and more people are already using these height-adjustable desks. In the same manner, more and more are slowly making the shift. And for many individuals who are doing so, here’s one common question we usually encounter: how high should I set the standing desk? The importance of setting up your standing desk or sit stand desk at the correct height cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts your comfort, productivity, and overall posture.

According to some researches, the typical height range for a sit stand desk falls between 38" and 46". This range provides an optimal balance for the average person to maintain a 90-degree angle at their elbows while performing common office tasks like typing or using a mouse. This range is ideal for alleviating strain on various parts of the body, including shoulders, neck, and back.

In this article, we will look into the significance of matching the standing desk with a user's height and provide a practical guide on how to set up a sit stand desk at the optimal height, for you to follow it correctly.

The Importance of Proper Standing Desk Height

The height by which your standing desk is set will directly influence your physical well-being during work hours. A sit stand desk that is either too high or too low can create strain on your neck, shoulders, and back, leading to discomfort and potential long-term health issues.

Conversely, a meticulously adjusted desk height plays a crucial role in supporting your body's natural alignment, contributing to good posture, reducing muscle and joint strain, and improving blood circulation. To help you better understand the importance of proper standing height, check out below:

Ergonomics and Comfort

• Why invest in a standing desk? In Canada, one of the primary reasons people shift to standing desks is enhanced ergonomics in the workplace and a reduction in the negative effects of prolonged sitting. However, if the desk is not set at the correct height, you won’t be able to enjoy the mentioned benefits and you are like to suffer from discomfort and body pain.
• Proper desk height ensures that your wrists, elbows, and shoulders are aligned comfortably, minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal issues.

Posture and Spinal Health

• A standing desk set at the correct height promotes good posture. When your sit stand desk is too high or too low, it can force you into awkward positions, leading to back and neck pain over time.
• Maintaining a neutral spine position while standing helps prevent long-term health issues and increases overall comfort during work hours.

Productivity and Focus

• A well-adjusted sit stand desk promotes better focus and productivity. When you are comfortable and your body is properly aligned, you can concentrate on your tasks without the distraction of discomfort.

Determining the Correct Standing Desk Height

Determining the optimal height of standing desks in Canada cannot be approached from a one-size-fits-all perspective. This a personalized process that hinges on several factors unique to each individual desk user. Elements such as your height, the size of your screen, and the placement of your keyboard and mouse all play a crucial role in finding the perfect standing desk height. Once you’ve considered these details, determining your ideal height becomes a straightforward task.

While the average recommended height for a sit stand desk is 30 inches, this may not be universally suitable, especially given the diverse user body types and preferences. To help you determine your correct personalized standing desk height, refer to the steps below:

Step 1. Measure Your Elbow Height

• Stand naturally with your arms hanging by your sides.
• Measure the height from the floor to your elbow.
• Your standing desk or sit stand desk should ideally be set at a height that will allow you to maintain a neutral position for your arms and minimize any strain.

Step 2. Monitor Position

• Place your monitor at eye level so you won’t have to tilt your head up or down.
• This ensures a comfortable and ergonomic viewing angle, reducing strain on the neck.

Step 3. Keyboard and Mouse Placement

• Keep your keyboard and mouse at a height that allows your forearms to be parallel to the ground.
• Wrists should be straight, not angled up or down, to prevent discomfort and strain.

Step 4. Anti-Fatigue Mat

• Consider using an anti-fatigue mat to reduce pressure on your feet and lower back during prolonged standing.

Achieving the optimal standing desk height is crucial for ensuring comfort and preventing muscle tension. When setting up your desk, aim for a height that will allow your arms to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle when using the keyboard and mouse. This ensures a neutral and ergonomic position that minimizes strain on your muscles and joints.

And again, it's crucial to note that there is no one-size-fits-all standard for standing desk height. Each user, regardless of location, whether in or out of Canada, when investing in standing desks, should consider multiple factors to determine the ideal height based on their unique physical characteristics and specific needs.

For instance, someone who is 5'0" tall would find a standing desk height of 36.5" to be ideal, while a person standing at 6'0" would benefit from a desk height of 44". Conversely, an individual who is 6'8" tall should aim for a standing desk height of 49.5".

Beyond height considerations, other factors contribute to a healthy sit stand desk setup. The distance between the eyes and the screen should fall within the range of 18" to 24". Additionally, maintaining a healthy posture involves keeping shoulders relaxed, ensuring adequate circulation in the legs through movement, keeping the back straight, positioning hip and knee joints correctly, and keeping the feet flat on the floor.

It's worth noting that some individuals may need to set the standing desk height at intervals throughout the day, especially those constantly alternating between sitting and standing while they work. These adjustments should align with the individual's position, ensuring ongoing comfort and addressing the aspects mentioned above.

Investing in standing desks in countries like Canada is a step toward a healthier and more productive work environment, but it's crucial to pay attention to the finer details, especially desk height. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can be sure that your sit stand desk is set up optimally, providing maximum comfort, promoting good posture, and contributing to your overall well-being in the workplace.

Remember, a well-adjusted standing desk is not just a piece of furniture; it's an investment in your health and productivity.

About Us

MotionGrey is a Canadian standing desk company that specializes in ergonomic furniture. We supply and install only the best quality standing desks and ergonomic chairs in the country. We offer free shipping within Canada and the US.

What made you switch to standing desks? Our products are designed with wellness as the focal point. From our electric standing desks to our office and gaming chairs, we deliver best value by putting your health, safety, and comfort as top priority. Boost your creativity and level up work performance. We want you to create great outcomes so we’re providing you only the best tools to make them possible.

If you are not satisfied with your purchase, check out our Refund Policy.