New research from the Mayo Clinic reveals the transformative impact of active working on cognitive function and overall health.

In a groundbreaking Mayo Clinic study, the use of active workstations, including walking pads, bikes, steppers, and standing desks, has emerged as a promising strategy for combatting sedentary behaviour while enhancing cognitive function in the workplace.

As we’ve learned, sedentary lifestyles, both at work and at home, contribute significantly to the risk of chronic diseases. This welcome new study looks at how incorporating active workstations, such as Yo-Yo DESK®'s innovative range of standing desks and Active Working® products, can revolutionise your work routine and improve your overall health.

The Study's Scope:

The Mayo Clinic study enlisted 44 participants in a randomised clinical trial conducted over four consecutive days at the prestigious Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center. The findings of this comprehensive research endeavour have since been published in the esteemed Journal of the American Heart Association.

Participants were exposed to four distinct office settings, each offering a unique work environment. The trial commenced with a stationary or sitting station on the initial day, followed by three active workstations, including standing, walking, or using a stepper, in a randomised order.

To gauge the impact of active workstations on neurocognitive function, researchers administered 11 assessments evaluating reasoning, short-term memory, and concentration. Additionally, fine motor skills were evaluated through an online typing speed test and other relevant measures.

The Findings:

Enhanced Brain Function

The study found that participants utilising active workstations experienced either improved or unchanged brain function compared to traditional sedentary workstations. Notably, their typing speed exhibited only a marginal decrease, while typing accuracy remained unaffected.

Improved Reasoning Scores

The study also showcased enhanced reasoning scores among participants engaging in activities such as standing, stepping, and walking, as opposed to prolonged sitting. These findings underscore the cognitive benefits of incorporating movement into the workday.

"Our findings suggest that it is feasible to blend movement with office work that previously would have been done during long periods of sitting. Active workstations may offer a way to potentially improve cognitive performance and overall health, simply by moving at work," – Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D., preventive cardiologist at Mayo Clinic and senior author of the study.

Insights and Implications:

Dr. Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, a preventive cardiologist at Mayo Clinic and the study's senior author, underscores the importance of incorporating movement into the work environment. He suggests that active workstations offer a promising approach to enhancing cognitive performance and overall health by blending movement with office work. Dr. Lopez-Jimenez highlights the dangers of prolonged sedentary behaviour – equating it to the health risks associated with smoking! He advocates for active workstations as a preventive measure against conditions like obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

"Being sedentary is the new smoking when it comes to your cardiovascular health, and office workers may spend a large part of their eight-hour workday sitting at a computer screen and keyboard. These findings indicate that there are more ways to do that work while remaining productive and mentally sharp. We would do well to consider an active workstation in the prescription for prevention and treatment of conditions like obesity, cardiovascular disease and diabetes," – Dr. Lopez-Jimenez.

Embrace Active Working with Yo-Yo DESK®

This new Mayo Clinic study highlights the significant benefits of switching to a standing desk and integrating active workstations into office environments. With improved cognitive function and reduced sedentary time, these innovative solutions offer a path to better health and work productivity.

As we strive for healthier work habits, consider incorporating active workstations into your own office setup. Explore Yo-Yo Desk®'s range of height-adjustable standing desks and standing desk converters, as well as other active working products such as anti-fatigue mats, to help combat the risks of prolonged sitting. Take proactive steps towards a more vibrant, energised workday.

This year we aim to Get Britain Standing! Invest in your well-being today by embracing the power of movement in the workplace. Together, let's create a culture of health and vitality for a brighter tomorrow.

Step into the rhythm of movement and vitality as we mark the calendar for On Your Feet Britain®, a nationwide call to action fostering activity and combatting sedentary habits.

This month we celebrate On Your Feet Britain®, a national activity awareness day dedicated to promoting movement and reducing sedentary behaviour in the workplace. On Thursday, 25th April, 2024, we invite you to participate in this fun and free event aimed at rebooting and energising workplace habits.

What is On Your Feet Britain®?

On Your Feet Britain® is a national initiative that encourages desk-based workers across the UK to #SitLess and #MoveMore at work. With over 2 million participants, this event offers a variety of simple and enjoyable activities to promote a more active lifestyle in the office.

On Your Feet Britain® emerged as a response to the growing recognition of the health risks associated with prolonged sitting in the workplace. The initiative was born out of a collaborative effort from the minds behind Get Britain Standing, including health experts, workplace wellness advocates, and organisations committed to promoting employee well-being. With sedentary behaviour becoming increasingly prevalent in modern office environments, there was a pressing need to raise awareness and encourage positive behaviour change.

The inaugural On Your Feet Britain® event took place in 2015. Since then, the initiative has gained significant momentum, attracting participation from millions of desk-based workers across Britain. Over the years, On Your Feet Britain® has evolved to encompass a diverse array of initiatives and campaigns aimed at fostering a more active workplace culture, encouraging participants to try simple yet effective ways to incorporate movement into their daily routines.

Beyond promoting physical health, On Your Feet Britain® also emphasises the importance of mental well-being and productivity. Research has shown that regular movement throughout the day can enhance concentration, boost mood, and improve overall job satisfaction. By empowering employees to take control of their health and well-being, the initiative contributes to a more vibrant and engaged workforce.

As On Your Feet Britain® continues to gain traction, it serves as a powerful reminder of the collective impact that small changes in behaviour can have on individual health and organisational culture. By encouraging desk-based workers to #SitLess and #MoveMore, the initiative inspires a shift towards a healthier and more dynamic approach to work.

Why Participate?

Research has consistently demonstrated the detrimental effects of prolonged sitting on physical and mental health. Sedentary behaviour is linked to an increased risk of chronic health conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and musculoskeletal disorders. Moreover, long hours of sitting can contribute to feelings of fatigue, stress, and reduced productivity.

By embracing the principles of On Your Feet Britain®, you'll not only improve your own health and well-being but also contribute to a more vibrant, productive, and engaged workforce. Incorporating regular movement breaks and adopting standing-based work habits such as standing desks can have a transformative impact.

So why wait? Join us in the movement towards healthier, more active workplaces today!

How to Get Involved

Participating in On Your Feet Britain® is easy and free! Simply register for the event and encourage your workplace and colleagues to join the #BigWiggle.

Here are some simple ways you can "Get up offa that thing" for On Your Feet Britain®:

Stand During Phone Calls: Instead of sitting at your desk, stand up and move around while you're on the phone. This small change can add up to significant benefits over time.

Take Regular Breaks: Set a timer to remind yourself to take a break from your computer every 30 minutes. Use this time to stretch, walk around, or do some light exercises to keep your body active.

Use the Stairs: Opt for the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible. Climbing stairs is a great way to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine and strengthen your muscles.

Arrange Standing or Walking Meetings: Instead of sitting around a conference table, suggest holding meetings while standing or walking.

Eat Away from Your Desk: Take a break from your workstation during lunchtime and eat your meal in a different area, such as a break room or outdoor space.

Walk to Colleagues' Desks: Instead of sending emails or making phone calls, take a few minutes to walk to a colleague's desk for a face-to-face conversation.

Become a Workplace Champion

A Workplace Champion (aka ‘Chief Wiggle Officer’), plays a vital role in promoting and organising On Your Feet Britain® events within your organisation. These individuals serve as ambassadors for the initiative, rallying their colleagues and ensuring that everyone is aware of the event and its goals. Their enthusiasm, dedication, and leadership can help create a workplace culture that values movement, health, and well-being.

Register now as a Workplace Champion to access materials and resources to help spread the word and get your colleagues involved!

The Workplace Event and Active Working Seminar

The Workplace Event is a groundbreaking, free-to-attend gathering of industry leaders and changemakers that aims to provide a comprehensive platform for discussing and addressing the evolving needs of today's workplaces. With a focus on employee experience and workplace performance, this event offers a range of insightful content, awards, and networking opportunities.

As part of The Workplace Event, Gavin Bradley, Active Working® thought leader and founder of Yo-Yo OFFICE®, will be speaking at the Workplace Leaders Summit. His seminar will focus on building awareness and understanding of the importance of active working practices to combat the "Sitting Disease.”

Don't miss the opportunity to hear Gavin speak during The Workplace Event. Register now to secure your place and join us in promoting healthier, more active workplaces for everyone.

Participating Organisations

Among the many companies participating in On Your Feet Britain®, prominent names from various industries are stepping up to promote a more active work culture. The National Health Service (NHS), LeoVegas UK, and Siemens Healthineers are just a few of the notable organisations committed to encouraging their employees to sit less and move more. Join these influential companies in embracing a culture of movement and wellness by registering for On Your Feet Britain® today!

Join the Movement with Yo-Yo DESK®

On Your Feet Britain® is your chance to make a difference in your workplace and inspire others to #SitLess and #MoveMore. Challenge yourself and your colleagues to reduce sitting time and embrace a more active lifestyle. Register now and receive a £100 voucher to spend at Yo-Yo DESK® (against a minimum cart value of £300).

Join the movement. Get on your feet. Together, we can make a difference!

Explore the importance of proper desk height and discover tips to find the right height for your standing desk in our helpful guide.

Proper desk height is more than just a matter of convenience; it's a crucial aspect of creating a workspace that supports your overall health and well-being. Whether you're sitting or standing at your sit-stand desk, the alignment of your body plays a significant role in preventing discomfort, fatigue, and musculoskeletal issues.

In this guide, we'll help you find the perfect height for your standing desk to maximise ergonomic comfort and productivity. Discover how proper desk height impacts your overall health and well-being, and learn key considerations for setting up your workspace. Let's get started!

How Do I Find the Right Height for My Standing Desk?

Determining the optimal height for your standing desk depends on various factors, including your height, posture, and comfort preferences. Here are some quick guidelines to help you find the right desk height for your needs:

Elbow position: A common method for determining standing desk height is to adjust it so that your elbows are bent at a 90-degree angle when typing or using your keyboard. This position ensures that your wrists are aligned with your elbows or slightly below, promoting ergonomic wrist positioning and reducing strain.

Monitor position: Your monitor should be positioned at eye level or slightly below to maintain a neutral neck position and minimise neck strain. Adjust the height of your standing desk accordingly to achieve this optimal monitor position.

Posture and comfort: Stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and spine neutral when using your standing desk. Experiment with different desk heights until you find a position that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain proper posture throughout the day.

For Example:

If you're 5 feet 6 inches tall and prefer to have your elbows at a 90-degree angle when typing, your standing desk height may be approximately 39 to 42 inches.

For someone taller, such as 6 feet tall, the optimal desk height may be slightly higher, around 42 to 45 inches, to accommodate their height and maintain ergonomic wrist and monitor positioning.

Alternatively, if you primarily use your standing desk for tasks that involve reading or viewing documents on your monitor, you may prefer a lower desk height that positions the monitor at eye level or slightly below for optimal viewing comfort.

Remember to adjust your desk height based on your individual preferences and ergonomic needs to create a comfortable and productive workspace.

Tips to Position Your Monitor

Ideal screen distance of 50-70cm: Positioning your monitor at a distance of 50 to 70 centimetres from your eyes is recommended for optimal eye health. This distance minimises eye strain, fatigue, and discomfort, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience and reducing the risk of long-term vision-related problems.

Head and vision positioning: Maintain your head in an upright position and direct your vision to the top half of the screen. By doing so, you encourage better posture and reduce the likelihood of neck and shoulder discomfort associated with prolonged screen use. Additionally, this positioning helps prevent eye strain and promotes overall comfort and productivity throughout the workday.

Tilt your monitor at 20 degrees: To achieve ergonomic viewing, it's recommended to tilt your monitor at approximately 20 degrees. This tilt helps alleviate neck strain and encourages a more natural posture while working, promoting comfort and reducing the risk of musculoskeletal issues.

Tips for Wrist Alignment and Elbow Positioning

Maintaining proper wrist alignment is essential for ergonomic comfort and preventing strain during prolonged periods of work at a standing desk. Ensure that your wrists are positioned at or slightly below elbow height to achieve a neutral wrist posture. This alignment helps alleviate tension and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury.

Incorrect wrist positioning, such as typing with wrists too high or too low, can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and potential repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) like carpal tunnel syndrome. Proper alignment is crucial for reducing the strain on your wrists and promoting long-term comfort and health in the workplace.

To achieve optimal wrist alignment, adjust your desk height accordingly. Experiment with different heights until you find a position that allows your elbows to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle while typing, with your wrists in a neutral position.

Tips for Posture and Avoiding Fatigue

When using a sit-stand desk, it's essential to maintain good posture to avoid pain and fatigue. Stand tall with your shoulders relaxed, spine neutral, and feet flat on the floor. Keep your head up, eyes focused on the screen's top half, and wrists aligned with your elbows or slightly below.

In addition to maintaining proper posture, taking regular movement breaks throughout the day can help prevent pain and fatigue. Set reminders to stretch, walk around, or perform simple exercises to keep your muscles active and blood flowing. These short breaks can refresh your body and mind, improving productivity and overall well-being.

Another effective strategy for reducing pain and fatigue while standing at your desk is to use an anti-fatigue mat. These mats are specifically designed to provide cushioning and support, which can help alleviate pressure on your feet, legs, and lower back. By standing on an anti-fatigue mat, you can minimise discomfort and fatigue, allowing you to stand for longer periods with greater ease.

Height-Adjustable Standing Desks from Yo-Yo DESK®

Proper desk height plays a crucial role in preventing pain and fatigue while using a standing desk. Apply the guidelines provided in this article to adjust your sit-stand desk height effectively. By aligning your monitor, wrists, and body correctly, you can reduce strain on your muscles and joints, minimise the risk of discomfort and fatigue, and create a workspace that supports your well-being and enhances your productivity.

Ready to upgrade your workspace with Yo-Yo DESK®? Browse our range of adjustable-height standing desks designed to promote health and productivity, and find the perfect solution for you.

This year we aim to Get Britain Standing! Learn everything you need to know about standing desks and active working by visiting our blog section.

Join us as we explore 10 compelling reasons why embracing a standing desk in 2024 is essentialfor unlocking your full potential, optimising your health, and embracing the future of work.

In recent years, standing desks have emerged as a popular choice among individuals seekingto combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting, driven by growing awareness of the health risks associated with sedentary lifestyles. As more people find themselves immersed in desk-bound work environments, we find that ergonomic workspaces are indispensable for fostering employee well-being and productivity.

Standing desks offer numerous benefits for individuals who spend long hours working ata desk. Here are TEN reasons you need a standing desk in 2024:

1. Improved Posture

Standing desks promote better posture by encouraging an upright stance, which counters the strainand discomfort associated with prolonged sitting. Unlike seated positions that often leadto slouching and hunching, standing engages core muscles, distributing weight evenly andaligning the spine naturally. This reduces the risk of spinal issues and enhances bodyawareness, prompting users to adjust their posture and alleviate tension.

2. Increased Energy Levels

Standing desks can help combat feelings of fatigue and lethargy that often accompany longperiods of sitting, increasing energy levels by improving circulation, and deliveringoxygen and nutrients efficiently to vital organs and muscles. Engaging key musclegroups while standing stimulates blood flow and metabolic activity, preventing musclefatigue and promoting alertness. Indeed, one study found that 87% of participants reported increased energy levels throughout the day when using a standing desk.

3. Reduced Risk of Obesity

Standing desks promote an active lifestyle by engaging muscles and burning more caloriesthan sitting. This helps manage weight and reduces the risk of obesity-related healthissues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Standing also encourages movement andpostural shifts, boosting calorie expenditure and metabolic rate, while prompting lightphysical activities like stretching and walking breaks.

4. Enhanced Focus and Productivity

Users of standing desks often experience enhanced focus and productivity due to improvedblood flow, which delivers essential nutrients to the brain, enhancing cognitive function.The upright posture associated with standing desks triggers neurological responses thatenhance mental alertness and concentration, fostering sustained cognitive function andproductivity. The dynamic nature of adjustable standing desks encourages movement,preventing mental fatigue and discomfort associated with prolonged sitting.Standing can also encourage a sense of empowerment and motivation, leading toincreased energy and proactive work approaches.

5. Increased Collaboration and Engagement

Standing desks can facilitate collaboration and engagement in the workplace by promotingmovement and interaction among colleagues. They encourage fluid transitions betweenindividual work tasks and group projects, encouraging impromptu discussions andbrainstorming sessions, and standing fosters alertness and receptivity to collaboration,enhancing communication and fostering meaningful connections. Additionally, stand-updesks encourage informal interactions and social engagement, building strong relationshipsand a sense of community.

6. Improved Mood and Mental Well-being

Standing desks foster improved mood and mental well-being by breaking sedentary patterns,and promoting vitality and empowerment. Increased physical activity stimulates endorphinrelease, reducing stress and enhancing positivity. Better blood flow to the brain supportsmental clarity and focus, while improved posture reduces physical discomfort.Sit-to-stand desks also empower individuals, promoting autonomy and job satisfaction.

7. Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases

Prolonged sitting is linked to higher risks of chronic diseases like heart disease,type 2 diabetes, and cancer due to metabolic dysregulation and inflammation. One recent Taiwanese study found that constant sitters faced a 16% higher riskof early death from all causes and a staggering 34% increased risk of mortalityfrom cardiovascular disease. Standing desks offer a proactive solution by reducingsitting time and promoting light physical activity, improving metabolic health andcardiovascular function. They also contribute to weight management and helpmitigate cancer risks associated with sedentary behaviour.

8. Better Blood Sugar Control

Standing after meals helps to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulinsensitivity, which is especially beneficial for individuals at risk of type 2diabetes. Gravity facilitates glucose movement into cells for energy,supported by insulin action. Standing at your desk promotes muscle activation,improving glucose utilisation and stabilising postprandial glucose levels.It enhances insulin sensitivity, reducing insulin resistance risk.Additionally, post-meal standing aids digestion and nutrient absorption,supporting metabolic health.

9. Customisable Workstations

Sit-stand desks are adjustable, allowing users to switch between sitting and standingpositions throughout the day, providing flexibility and comfort while reducing therisk of sedentary behaviour. Adjustable heights allow users to align their worksurface ergonomically, preventing strain and discomfort. This ability to alternatepostures enhances circulation, reduces fatigue, and boosts productivity.Customisable workstations accommodate diverse body types and even different heights, ensuring comfort and efficiency for all employees.

10.Protect Cognitive Health

Standing desks offer a proactive solution to mitigate the detrimental effects of prolongedsitting on cognitive health. A recent study by the Harvard Medical School found a significant correlation between prolonged sitting and heightened dementia risk.By allowing users to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day,these desks promote movement, circulation, and increased engagement—all crucialelements for maintaining cognitive vitality.

Embrace the Long-Term Benefits with Yo-Yo DESK®

Integrating standing desks into daily work routines can contribute to long-termhealth and well-being by reducing the negative effects of prolonged sitting andpromoting a more active lifestyle. In 2024, at a time when the boundaries betweenwork and health blur, investing in a sit-stand desk isn't just about staying ahead;it's about prioritising your holistic wellness in an ever-evolving world.

So embrace the future of work with Yo-Yo DESK®! Explore our range of ergonomic standing desks and discover how you can revolutionise your workspace in 2024and beyond. Browse executive standing desks, home office standing desks, standing desk converters, and much more.

This year we aim to Get Britain Standing! Discover more tips, information, and engaging content on standing desks and active working by visiting our blog section.

Recent research from Taiwanese scientists, published by JAMA Network Open, has uncoveredconcerning health risks associated with prolonged periods of sitting at work.

Analysing health outcomes over a 20-year period for nearly 500,000 individuals, the study foundthat constant sitters faced a 16% higher risk of early death from all causes and a staggering34% increased risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease. These findings highlight the needto reevaluate workplace habits and incorporate measures to mitigate the potential dangersof extended sitting.

Key Findings:

• Increased Mortality Risk: The study tracked health outcomes, adjusting for variables such as sex, age, smoking, drinking, and body mass index (BMI). Constant sitters at work had a 16% higher risk of early death compared to their more active counterparts.
• Cardiovascular Disease Risks: The risks were not limited to overall mortality; individuals with sedentary work lives also faced a 34% increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
• Active Alternatives: Those leading a combination lifestyle, alternating between sitting and non-sitting at work, did not experience an increased risk of death. Moreover, individuals engaged in exercise during their free time displayed a reduced risk of mortality, both from all causes and cardiovascular disease.
• Exercise as a Mitigating Factor: The study suggests that 15 to 30 minutes of vigorous exercise a day can offset the increased risk of death and heart disease associated with prolonged sitting.

Recommendations and Implications:

The researchers propose systemic changes in the workplace to address the risks of prolonged sitting.Suggestions include more frequent breaks, standing desks, designated areas for physical activity,and gym membership benefits. The study emphasises that employers can play a role in facilitatingthese changes, promoting leisure-time physical activity or offering company-sponsored group activities.

Sit Less with Yo-Yo DESK®

The Taiwanese study adds to the growing body of evidence linking a sedentary lifestyle,particularly prolonged sitting at work, to significant health risks. As part of themodern lifestyle, the impact of prolonged occupational sitting cannot be ignored.Employers and individuals alike are encouraged to consider implementing strategiesto reduce sedentary behaviour, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomesand a lower risk of premature mortality.

Switching to a standing desk can be a great way to stand more and reduce the health risks of sitting for too long! Browse our range of ergonomic standing desks to find the perfect solution for your health and well-being.