This in-depth FAQ explores the most common standing desk questions, backed by guidance from award-winning osteopath Anisha Joshi, and highlights ergonomic solutions from the Leitz Ergo range.
Whether you’re adapting to hybrid work, upgrading your home office, or redesigning your workspace for wellbeing, standing desks have become a major part of the ergonomic conversation. But it’s not always clear how to use them properly — or whether they’re the right choice for you.
This in-depth FAQ explores the most common standing desk questions, backed by guidance from award-winning osteopath Anisha Joshi, and highlights ergonomic solutions from the Leitz Ergo range.
The ideal standing desk height is one that allows you to maintain a neutral posture: elbows at a 90° angle, wrists straight, shoulders relaxed, and your screen positioned at or just below eye level, about an arm’s length away.
Leitz offers a range of sit-stand desks designed to give you precision and flexibility.
If you use a laptop, pair your standing desk with a Leitz Ergo Laptop Riser plus an external keyboard and mouse to keep your screen at eye level while maintaining a neutral typing position.
With any of these options, the key is adjustability. Having the freedom to set the right height for your body — and to change it throughout the day — ensures healthier posture, less strain, and more energy while working.
Not all standing desks work the same way — and the best choice depends on your workspace, budget, and how often you’ll be switching between sitting and standing.
Standing isn’t necessarily “better” than sitting — but prolonged sitting has been linked to back pain, reduced circulation, and fatigue. Standing encourages subtle movement, improves posture awareness, and can enhance energy levels.
“Our bodies are not designed to stay still all day, whether that’s sitting or standing. The most ergonomic posture is the one that changes throughout the day.” – Anisha Joshi
Extended periods of static sitting or standing are both linked to musculoskeletal discomfort. The ideal approach is to alternate between sitting and standing to encourage circulation and reduce fatigue.
Standing desks make this easy. These tools allow workers to shift posture in seconds, which can help reduce lower back pressure and improve focus — particularly when combined with complementary tools like anti-fatigue mats and active seating.
There’s no fixed number, but most experts recommend standing for 15 to 30 minutes per hour, increasing gradually as your body adapts. Sudden, long periods of standing can cause fatigue — just as sitting for hours without moving can.
Even with a perfect setup, movement matters most. A commonly cited framework, such as that by Dr. James Levine (Mayo Clinic), suggests beginning with 15 minutes of standing per hour and slowly increasing to 30 minutes, depending on your comfort.
Anisha Joshi’s advice is “Don’t force long periods of standing right away. Start with short bursts, use a supportive mat, and listen to your body.”
Pair your desk with the Leitz Ergo Active Anti-Fatigue Mat to make standing more comfortable. The mat reduces pressure on your heels, knees, and hips, encouraging micro-movements that boost circulation and reduce joint tension.
Standing throughout your work day isn't recommended - alternating between standing, perching, and sitting is ideal. Active seating can help bridge the gap by keeping your muscles engaged and encouraging better posture.
The Leitz Ergo Cosy Sit Stand Stool offers a height-adjustable, slightly tilting seat that encourages active core use.
For a simpler and more affordable intervention, the Leitz Active Wobble Cushion can be added to any standard chair to promote dynamic sitting and reduce slouching.
Perching on a sit-stand stool or using a wobble cushion encourages subtle movement and helps prevent postural fatigue during long working hours.
Yes — standing desks aren’t just for large offices. If you’re working in a compact or multipurpose space, flexibility is key. The Leitz Ergo Cosy Standing Desk Converter is a great option for hot-desking or shared workstations, as it sits on top of any surface and adjusts smoothly with pneumatic lifting.
For even greater space-saving, the Leitz Ergo Foldable Sit-Standing Desk offers a full standing desk experience that can be set up in seconds and folded away just as easily when you’re done. It’s perfect if you need a proper desk setup during the day but want to reclaim your room in the evening.
To keep your small workspace tidy and efficient, pair these with smart tools like:
Together, they help you create a comfortable, productive workstation — and just as easily pack it away when space is at a premium.
Discomfort while standing usually means your posture, footwear, or surface isn’t supportive. Here’s how to improve it:
If you’re exploring standing desks, start with short standing intervals, build the habit gradually, and listen to your body as you adapt. With flexible options like electric sit-stand desks, compact manual models, and portable converters, the Leitz Ergo range makes it easy to keep your workspace moving with you. You’ll start to notice improvements in focus, energy and comfort. Remember that the goal is movement, not abandoning sitting altogether.
Shop the full Leitz ergonomic range — from standing desks, active stools, monitor stands, to anti-fatigue mats.