Your Best Seating Options for a Standing Desk

Are you committing to a new standing desk or sit to stand desk converter? You've undoubtedly already researched how scientists and researchers now agree that sitting too long or even standing on your feet for too long is detrimental to your health and now recommend switching back and forth. You may have already picked out the sit to stand desk perfect for you and perhaps have ordered it already! But have you had time to choose the best seating options for a sit-to-stand?

If you weren't aware of it, your old office chair might not be the best option for your new sit to stand desk. Most office chairs that aren't explicitly designed to be used with sit to stand or standing desks can't adjust properly to the height of your standing desk. So how to look for the right chair for you? What are the best seating options for a sit to stand desk?
We're so excited you asked us! Let's help you find the best options for you!

What is a standing Desk Chair Anyway?
Suppose you're new to standing desks or owning one. In that case, a standing desk chair is a very adjustable, multi-functional seating option designed to make working at a standing or sit-to-stand desk as ergonomic and comfortable as possible. You may find this type of chair also referred to as a perching stool, standing height stool, mobile standing chair, height-adjustable stool, leaning stool, ottoman—and may even note some options that aren't chairs at all, like under-desk bikes!

What Features Should a Sit-Stand Chair Have?
We recommend evaluating three main characteristics before deciding on the right sit-stand chair.

Weight
Lightweight chairs are more accessible to lift and maneuver than heavy chairs. Going lightweight doesn't necessarily mean skimping on quality either, as many desk chairs are made using only premium materials. Additionally, if you ever need to move your workstation or desk, a lightweight chair will easily relocate with you.

Adjustability
Is it a height-adjustable chair, and what height does it adjust to? Your typical ergonomic office chair will range from 16 to 21 inches, while a sit to stand chair can range from 22 to 27 inches or 25 to 32 inches high.

Your sit-stand chair should have an adjustable height that allows you to sit no matter what size your desk may be or allows you to lean back while standing. Your average task or office chair won't be able to adjust from regular sitting desk heights to standing desk heights.

The chair should also be adjustable in other ways, not just height. A great sit-stand chair should support your lower back in an ergonomic S-like shape. Should it have a headrest, you should be able to extend or tilt it. In some sit-to-stand chairs, the arms are adjustable and should allow you to lift or lower the arms for perfect hand-to-keyboard height.

Most Important: Comfort
An ergonomic and adjustable chair is all well and good—but are you comfortable sitting in it? Your chair, like your desk, is a significant investment. You'll be standing, yes, but you'll also switch to sitting, and if you aren't comfortable, you will be less likely to use the chair or find yourself distracted, fighting to get comfortable.

Incorporating more activity and movement in your life can be difficult, so there is no need to complicate it further with a chair you dislike. If possible, try out chairs in person. If you can't test them out, make sure you read as many reviews as possible from trusted sources.

The best sit-stand chairs will encourage you to keep a hip-to-torso angle of about 130 to 135 degrees, as this is the optimal posture that puts the least amount of stress on the spine and connecting muscles.

What About Stools?
Stools are another fantastic sit-stand chair, so long as you find the right one. The best-made sit-stand stools will provide an ultra-supportive sturdy base and either a stylish and sleek design or something practical. Well-made sit-stand stools can allow you to rest while remaining at standing height and can relieve fatigue. Many saddle-style stools also feature a pivot post that rotates 90 degrees and snaps back to the center once weight is removed from the chair.

What Other Benefits Do the Best Seating Options for a Sit and Stand Desk Provide?
There are several other benefits to pairing your new stand-up desk with a sit-stand chair. A high-quality sit-stand chair is designed to promote healthier posture and encourages you to adapt and maintain a comfortable, ergonomic position.

• Pain reduction and prevention. While constantly standing or sitting, specific repetitive tasks with no changes could lead to musculoskeletal disorders and pain. We're not meant to stand for 8 – 10 hours straight, nor sit for that same amount. Therefore, using a sit-stand chair or stool where you can lean or sit to reduce pressure on your joints facilitates proper circulation and reduces significant stress on the body.
• Reduced leg and torso fatigue. When we stand, our posture is maintained by our legs and torso muscles. Prolonged standing can lead to permanent contractions of the legs and lower back muscles, so it's crucial to be able to sit and relax these muscles so as not to overwork them.
• When we stand for very long periods in a static position, we tend to block our knees in full extension—this can lead to an abnormal curve in our lumbar region, resulting in bad posture and discomfort. Using a sit-stand chair allows us to maintain optimal lumbar curve and support, reducing the risk of back injuries.

At Stand Up Desk Store, we're not just dedicated to offering the absolute best experience with your new stand-up desk—but passionate about every aspect of them. From accessories to the perfect chair, we're here to help you find optimal workspace or home solutions tailored to meet your needs.

When it comes to stand-up desks, we love sharing our expertise to ensure you find the perfect sit-to-stand chair and any workspace solutions you're looking for. Have questions for us about this article or any of our products? Please feel free to reach out to us at any time! We hope we've assisted in guiding you to finding the best seating options for a sit to stand desk.