Our founder Gavin Bradley, the UK's thought leader on Active Working®, was recently asked to supply a quote to feature in the International Best-Seller ‘ Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life’. And it got him thinking – how best to apply the philosophy of Ikigai to a work-life balance?

Ikigai, a profound Japanese philosophy, serves as a guiding light in the pursuit of a fulfilling and balanced life. At its core, Ikigai is the convergence of passion, vocation, mission, and profession. It goes beyond the routine, offering a profound connection to one's sense of purpose and wellbeing.

In our modern lives, the delicate dance between work and personal life often feels like an intricate balancing act. The demands of the professional sphere can sometimes clash with the desire for personal fulfilment and a meaningful existence. This struggle is universal, acknowledging the challenges many face in maintaining equilibrium and finding satisfaction in both their professional and personal pursuits.

In this article, we delve into the relevance of Ikigai in the quest for a harmonious work-life balance. As we unravel the layers of Ikigai, we discover not only a philosophy but a pathway to a more balanced and purposeful existence — one that is enriched by the vitality that movement brings to our daily lives!

Understanding Ikigai

At its essence, Ikigai encapsulates the sweet spot where passion, vocation, mission, and profession converge. It is the art of finding joy and purpose in the intersection of these four elements. Passion fuels what you love; vocation reflects what the world needs; mission is driven by what you are good at, and profession signifies what you can be rewarded for.

Ikigai, beyond being a concept, is a philosophy of holistic living. It's not just about finding purpose in your professional life; it's about harmonising every facet of your existence. From personal relationships to physical health, Ikigai underscores the interconnectedness of various life domains. By aligning with your Ikigai, you embark on a journey toward a more fulfilling and balanced life, where work and personal wellbeing seamlessly coexist.

Ikigai and Wellbeing

Ikigai is not just a compass for professional choices; it's a powerful force in infusing every aspect of life with purpose and satisfaction. Discovering and living your Ikigai brings a profound sense of direction and meaning to your daily endeavours.

Beyond the confines of a traditional work-life balance, Ikigai extends its influence into the realm of overall wellbeing. It's a holistic approach that recognises the intrinsic connection between purposeful living and health. When aligned with your Ikigai, not only does your work become more gratifying, but your mental and physical health also experiences a positive transformation. Ikigai, then, becomes a cornerstone in the architecture of a truly fulfilling and well-rounded life.

Integrating Movement into Ikigai

SPhysical activity is not just a companion in the journey to Ikigai; it is a vital element that propels the pursuit itself. Movement is the language of the body expressing joy, and as you tread the path of Ikigai, this joy becomes a guiding force.

Consider the various elements of Ikigai — passion, vocation, mission, and profession — as interconnected threads woven into the fabric of movement. Whether it's the joy of pursuing a passion-driven exercise routine or the discipline of a vocation aligned with your physical strengths, every movement becomes a step closer to the heart of Ikigai – which is one of the reasons we’re so determined to Get Britain Standing! Gavin Bradley launched this campaign in 2014 and it immediately set the cat among the pigeons. Ten years on awareness of the sitting disease and risks of prolonged sitting have grown exponentially as too has the scientific evidence base.

The benefits of incorporating movement into your Ikigai journey are multi-faceted. Physically, it enhances your health, boosts energy, and contributes to longevity. Mentally, it fosters creativity and clarity. In the context of Ikigai, movement is not just an activity; it's a catalyst that propels you towards a more balanced, purposeful, and joyous life.

Yo-Yo DESK® Solutions

Enter the world of ergonomic excellence with Yo-Yo DESK®'s range of height-adjustable standing desks and office furniture. Crafted for comfort, style, functionality and budget, these sit-to-stand desks redefine your workspace, promoting an environment where wellbeing thrives.

Yo-Yo DESK®'s solutions aren't just about elevating your workspace; they're about aligning your work environment with the principles of Ikigai. By seamlessly integrating ergonomic design with the philosophy of purposeful living, Yo-Yo DESK® becomes more than furniture; it becomes a companion in your journey towards a balanced and fulfilling life. Discover the synergy between Ikigai and Yo-Yo DESK® – where your workspace becomes a canvas for both productivity and wellbeing.

Shop for Work-Life Balance with Yo-Yo DESK®

In the pursuit of work-life balance, Ikigai emerges as a guiding light, intertwining purpose and wellbeing. Recognising the holistic nature of this philosophy, we've explored how aligning with Ikigai can redefine your professional and personal life.

Ready to infuse your workspace with purpose and movement? Explore our range of ergonomic sit-stand desks – where the principles of Ikigai and ergonomic design converge. Here at Yo-Yo DESK®, you’ll find executive standing desks, standing desks for your home office, standing desk converters, desk bikes, and much more to help you incorporate movement into your daily work!

So take the next step in your Ikigai journey, prioritising wellbeing and movement for a more fulfilling work-life balance. Browse our full selection of ergonomic office solutions today - your personalised workspace awaits.

Ever realised how much time you spend sitting each day? Between work, commuting, and leisure, it's easy to rack up nearly nine hours in a chair, not including sleep time.

Yet, let's face it: our bodies aren’t made for this kind of sedentary existence. Designed to be mobile and agile, our bodies comprise an intricate network of 360 joints and more than 700 muscles and rely on activity for key functions like blood circulation and nerve health.

Understanding the health risks of prolonged sitting is vital, especially in a world where sedentary jobs are the norm. This article will delve into how constant sitting affects your body and why you should consider standing desks, like those offered here Yo-Yo DESK®, to counteract these adverse effects.Browse our range of Ergonomic Standing Desks

Back and Shoulders

You're likely no stranger to the aches and discomfort that come from prolonged sitting, particularly in your back and shoulders. So, what's happening to your body during those long stints in a chair? Well, sitting puts our spines in a compromised position, especially when we adopt a slouched or slumped posture, which happens all too easily.

This misalignment strains back muscles and may cause chronic pain over time. Using a computer exacerbates the issue, as leaning forward strains your neck and shoulders. Fortunately, height-adjustable standing desks offer a way to correct posture and reduce this strain, making the detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle more manageable.

Legs and Hips

Long hours of sitting weaken your leg and hip muscles, affecting your posture and mobility. This prolonged inactivity not only leads to muscle atrophy but also tightens hip flexors, complicating basic actions like walking. Additionally, it hampers blood circulation, causing issues like swollen ankles and varicose veins. In extreme cases, you're at risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a severe condition involving blood clots in your legs.

Ergonomic solutions like Yo-Yo DESK® sit-stand desks help mitigate the health risks of prolonged sitting, enhancing both comfort and well-being in your workspace.

Heart and Cardiovascular Health

A sedentary lifestyle doesn't just affect your muscles and joints. Even just spending more than four hours a day seated significantly elevates the risk of heart disease and other health issues. One study found a 125% increase in heart-related conditions and a 46% higher risk of death among those who sit extensively. Sitting also burns 21% fewer calories per minute compared to standing, slowing metabolism.

Furthermore, prolonged sitting deactivates the enzyme lipoprotein lipase, crucial for breaking down fats in blood vessels, increasing the risk of arterial blockage. These findings make a compelling case for using standing desks to boost metabolism and heart health.

Lungs and Respiratory Health

Sitting for long stretches can compromise your respiratory system by causing poor posture, which limits lung expansion and reduces oxygen intake. This lack of oxygen affects everything from your alertness to energy levels, as cells require adequate oxygen for optimal functioning.

Over time, this can lead to lasting issues with lung health and overall respiratory efficiency. Ergonomic solutions like Yo-Yo DESK® stand-up desks can help maintain lung health, keeping you energised and focused.

Brain Function and Emotional Well-being

Long hours of sitting not only affect your physical health but also impair cognitive and emotional well-being. Reduced blood flow to the brain from lack of movement can lead to lower levels of mood-regulating hormones like endorphins, potentially causing lethargy or even depression. Moreover, limited physical activity can negatively affect cognitive skills such as focus and memory, partly due to decreased oxygen supply from restricted lung function.

Research supports the positive effects of physical movement on mental wellness, releasing mood-boosting chemicals like dopamine. A standing desk from Yo-Yo DESK® can be a simple way to add more activity to your day, benefiting both body and mind.

Pancreatic Health and Risk of Diabetes

Long hours of sitting can negatively impact your metabolic health by affecting insulin sensitivity. Even a single day of inactivity can
reduce your body's ability to respond to insulin, a hormone vital for metabolising sugars and fats.

This diminished response can lead to increased insulin production, stressing the pancreas and setting the stage for insulin resistance, a stepping stone to Type 2 diabetes. Elevated insulin can also heighten the risk of cardiovascular issues.

Given the increasing rates of metabolic disorders, incorporating more movement into your day is crucial. A standing desk from Yo-Yo DESK® offers a simple way to boost metabolic health.

Digestive Health

Prolonged sitting doesn't just affect your muscles and joints; it also hampers your digestive system. Extended time in a seated position compresses the abdominal area, leading to digestive issues like bloating, acid reflux, and constipation. An upright stance facilitates smoother transit in the gastrointestinal tract, improving digestion and bowel function. This is evident not just in everyday scenarios but also in hospital settings where patients experience digestive discomfort due to sedentary behaviour.

A standing desk from Yo-Yo DESK® promotes better posture and less abdominal compression, offering a holistic boost to your well-being, including improved digestion.

Take a Stand for Your Health With Yo-Yo DESK®

You've read about the alarming health effects of a sedentary lifestyle and the benefits of making even small changes. Now, it's time to take action for the sake of your long-term well-being!

At Yo-Yo DESK®, we offer a range of ergonomic standing desks designed to make the transition from a seated to a standing workspace as seamless as possible. Whether you require a high-performance executive standing desk, a standing desk for your home office, a standing desk to fit a corner or even a desk bike, we have the solution for you!

Available in various styles and sizes, our desks aren't just a trend; they're a move towards better well-being. Experience fewer health risks, increased productivity, and enhanced mood. Learn more about our solutions to extended sitting as part of our Get Britain Standing campaign.

Don't wait for health issues to arise—take action now. Invest in a Yo-Yo DESK® and transform your workday into an opportunity for better health. Browse our selection and make the change today. Your body and mind will thank you.

The rise of ergonomic solutions in workplaces reflects a growing awareness of well-being. Perhaps you've noticed colleagues embracing the "standing culture" in your office. You're intrigued, possibly eager to join the movement, yet apprehensive about the transition.

It's understandable; transitioning from a predominantly seated routine to standing requires gradual adjustment, commitment, and some savvy strategies. For those ready to take a stand for their health, here's a guide to ease into the world of standing desks seamlessly.Browse our range of Ergonomic Standing Desks

When you're on your feet, working for longer stretches, the precise height of your sit-stand desk is crucial for both comfort and productivity and for creating an ergonomic and efficient workspace. That's where the convenience of Yo-Yo DESK®'s adjustable-height standing desks truly shines, as you can quickly and easily adjust them to suit your height. We even offer Yo-Yo DESK®+ options for taller users.

When setting up your standing desk, aim for a posture where your elbows are positioned just a tad above a right angle as they hover over your keyboard - somewhere between 90° and 110° for comfortable typing - and maintain your spine's natural curve. Position your monitor so its top is at or just below eye level and about 20-30 inches away to avoid neck and eye strain. Keep regularly used items within easy reach to prevent overstretching, and manage cables to avoid trip hazards.

A desk that's too high can hinder blood flow to your hands, potentially causing discomfort. Conversely, a low desk may force you to stoop, leading to back or neck strain. Prioritise your well-being by ensuring your sit-to-stand desk is finely tuned to your optimal height.

Transitioning to a standing desk, like any change, requires a gradual approach. It's unlikely you'll comfortably stand for an entire day right from the outset – and nor should you! It's best to ease into the process. Think of this as a journey to enhance your workspace experience with Yo-Yo DESK®.

Start by standing for 20-30 minutes every 2 hours during the first week, gradually increasing your standing time daily. By the second week, aim to stand for 3-4 hours in total. By the third week, target 4.5 - 5 hours, and in the fourth week, strive for a balance of 5-6 hours of standing within an 8-hour workday. Remember, the objective isn't to stand all day but to find a comfortable balance, and most importantly “mix it up” throughout the day.

Don't perceive sitting as a setback; it's all about striking the right balance. Remember, there's no podium at the office for those who stand the most. Listen to your body's cues—if you need a break, there's no shame in taking a seat. Indeed if you tire standing, you will begin to slouch, and adopt a bad posture, so embrace this new journey with Yo-Yo DESK® at your own pace! Sit from time to time, and stand from time to time.

When entering the world of standing desks with Yo-Yo DESK®, it's essential to remember your feet—the foundation of your stance. Balance your weight evenly between both feet, occasionally shifting to reduce fatigue. Initially, you might feel some discomfort, but as with any new endeavour, your feet will adapt over time.

To ease this transition, prioritise foot comfort. Choose footwear that provides ample support and cushioning; while high-fashion shoes may be tempting, they aren't always the best allies for extended standing.

An additional pro tip: consider adding an ergonomic anti-fatigue mat to your workspace setup. It'll offer an extra layer of cushioning and support, making your standing experience more pleasant.Browse our Active Feet range

While integrating a Yo-Yo DESK® standing workstation into your routine, it's valuable to diversify your movements. Instead of always resorting to sitting during breaks, seize opportunities to stroll around.

Whether it's answering a call, engaging in a brief chat with colleagues, fetching documents, or just stretching your limbs, keep that mobility going. When you finally choose to sit, it feels like a genuine treat, enhancing the balance between standing and relaxation in your workspace.

Transitioning to a standing desk is a significant change, and your body's feedback is invaluable. Recognise that some initial discomfort is normal, but persistent issues may indicate a need for adjustments, whether it's the desk height, monitor position, or footwear. Feeling tired isn't a sign of failure; it's a reminder to take breaks, stretch, or sit.

The goal is to strike a balance between standing and sitting, responding to what your body tells you. Prioritise good posture and make necessary corrections. Always remember that your body's signals provide the best guidance for a comfortable and healthy standing desk experience.

Embracing change can be challenging, but the rewards, especially for your well-being, are undeniable. With Yo-Yo DESK®, you're not just investing in a piece of furniture but in a healthier, more dynamic future. Whether you’re looking for a high-performance executive standing desk or a desk for your home office, we have a solution. Dive into the revolution of ergonomic workspaces and experience the transformative benefits of Yo-Yo DESK®’s industry-leading height-adjustable standing desks firsthand!

If you're still curious or seeking more insights on making the transition smoother, we have lots of useful resources to guide you on your journey. You can learn more about the health benefits of our Get Britain Standing campaign, and even find out what it’s like to have a sit-stand desk. So why wait? Get standing with Yo-Yo DESK® today and take the first step towards a more active, focused, and healthy working life.Browse our range of Ergonomic Standing Desks

It’s also a bit of a secret that 95% of all office desks in Denmark are sit-stand desks — a workstation that can be adjusted, as the name suggests, from sitting to standing height.

While most British office workers spend the majority of their working days shackled to their chairs, gazing at computer screens and (if the obesity stats are anything to go by) grazing on snacks, over 80% of Scandinavian office workers have the freedom to sit and stand throughout the day with the help of height adjustable desks.In Denmark, it's just that little bit higher

It makes sense. Over the last 10 years, an increasing body of scientific research suggests that spending long periods of time on our behinds isn’t just contributing to the national obesity epidemic - it’s also making us more prone to diabetes, heart problems, some cancers and premature death. Scientists are even saying an hour in the gym after work won’t counteract the dangers of sitting all day.

Somewhat unsettling. Especially if you, like me, depend on a computer to make a living. I’ve always found it difficult physically and mentally to sit still for long periods. At the age of 21, I slipped a disc in the gym and ended up with sciatica for at least 10 months of my life. Sciatica causes persistent agonising pain up and down the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the toes and makes it difficult to carry out everyday activities. Suffice it to say, sitting for eight and a half hours a day in an office was not conducive to recovery! I wasn’t the only one. Chronic (long-term) pain affects one in 10 people in Britain, and a massive one in four Brits will experience some form of back pain in their lives.

Our sedentary working culture is only making this problem worse. We’re not built to sit. And yet many of us do so for over 14 hours a day – in the car, at work, at home in front of the telly. When we sit, the body slows down. Heart rate is slower, oxygen flow is stilted, and digestion is sluggish. Lazy posture causes hunching and head hanging, which puts strain on the spine that can in time cause injuries — like slipped discs and resulting sciatica.

always had a feeling that more activity was the answer. Being immobilised makes you want to move. I spent countless hours in the gym doing any non-weight-bearing exercises I could, I took up Pilates and cycled to and from work. Eventually, the pain faded and life for me is back to normal (aside from a new enthusiasm for strenuous exercise). But many other people of all ages continue to suffer in offices all across the country.

Today I spend some of my working day sitting, and some standing at my Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2 - the ‘top of the range’ height adjustable, electric sit-stand desk designed by Yo-Yo OFFICE. Standing boosts blood flow, activates more muscles and remarkably increases my heart rate by about 10bpm compared to sitting (I measure this with my Apple watch). In fact, one professor (Dr Mike Loosemore, Lead Consultant in Exercise Medicine at the Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health), says that standing for just three extra hours a day is the equivalent of running 10 marathons a year in terms of calories burnt.

There’s no doubt in my mind that height-adjustable sit-to-stand desks should be a real consideration for employers who want healthy, productive employees. But is the Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2 the best option? Let’s take a closer look…

Looks are important. Your office is essentially your front cover: it needs to impress. On first impressions, the Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2 looks like a standard, modern computer desk. Unlike the sit-to-stand surfaces designed to be placed on top of existing desks, the Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2 doesn’t require any additional accessories. In its seated position, you wouldn’t immediately know it was a sit-stand desk.

My model has a smart timber finish with a silver frame but there are a range of other shades available, including beech, oak, cherry, walnut, silver, black and white. The cable management system at the back ensures there’s no unnecessary bulk and everything can be kept neat and tidy.

I use the Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2 stand-up desk, which is a simple rectangular shape – perfect for my current set-up with two large monitors. If you know you’ll be swapping between paperwork and computer work, you might prefer the right or left corner desks, or a right or left stance desk.

The Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2 has an intelligent height-adjustable, up-and-down mechanism created by ‘linear actuators’ in the legs. They create a clean movement with accurate and smooth motion control that requires little or no maintenance and have a long lifetime with low operating costs.

Put simply: moving up and down is easy. You’re not going to make heads turn if you decide to stand up for a bit in the middle of the afternoon — and you’re not going to send your computer flying off the surface with any sudden juddering movements.

The controls are simple and easy to save your memory settings for both sitting and standing positions: an unobtrusive panel on the right-hand side consisting of an ‘up’ triangle and a ‘down’ triangle. No over-complicated switches or numbers, just simple buttons that you can control with your hand without even looking at them.

The Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2 electric standing desk can be bought with an optional programming switch so you can set adjustable heights for ease, track how many calories you burn, and set timers to remind you to sit or stand throughout the day.

Looks matter, as does engineering. But I think it’s just as important to consider how a product makes you feel. Initially, I noticed how sturdy the desk was — especially considering it stands on two legs. It can support considerable weight regardless of where it’s distributed. I know, because I’ve often found myself leaning on it with no catastrophic collapses. It’s also worth mentioning that I feel more alert and confident when standing at my Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2. Perhaps it’s something about standing body language or the increased flow of blood around my body. Either way, this sit-to-stand desk makes me feel good.

Starting from £540 inc VAT, the Yo-Yo DESK PRO is one of the best value-for-money standing desks out there. It recently won the Daily Telegraph award for “Best Buy” - and they tested most of the best-selling models so it must be pretty good! This model is for those who want the absolute best; those who want the smoothest movement, the strongest structure, and the most robust mechanism.

Yo-Yo DESK offer a warranty of seven years, so broken down, the most basic Yo-Yo DESK PRO, (without accessories and add-ons) only costs around £6.50 a month for seven years. Although I have strong suspicions it will far outlive this deadline. If it helps users stay active, strong and fit; if it limits back pain and other health problems associated with sitting, then the return on investment could be huge. How many sick days will it save? How much lost productivity from being in pain?

As simple as it might be, the sit-stand desk changes everything. For me, it’s about freedom. It’s about your employer actually valuing your health and happiness.

The perfect ratio of sitting and standing is unknown. What we do know is that the key is in the transition — moving from sitting to standing and vice versa. For this reason, we suggest standing up for 20 minutes of every hour. Set a timer to remind yourself. It’s important!

I love my Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2. It’s spacious and sturdy and it keeps me moving. If you’re a little taller than me, I’d suggest going for the Yo-Yo DESK PRO 2+, which is designed for user heights up to 203cm (i.e. 6’8’’). If you’re looking for a more affordable option there are lower-cost options available, like the Yo-Yo DESK PRO 1, which is much the same but with more affordable components. Yo-Yo DESK also sells a range of Yo-Yo Standing Desk Converter models, such as the Yo-Yo DESK MINI, which are cheaper but sit on top of your existing desk, acting as a standing desk converter.

But if you want the Volvo or even VW Golf of sit-stand desks, then it’s Yo-Yo DESK PRO all the way!

If you would like to know more about sit-stand desks and how they can benefit staff health and wellbeing, check out our Benefits of Standing page.

Strategies for Incorporating Movement at the Office

Taking Regular Breaks

Taking regular breaks throughout the workday is essential for incorporating movement and combatting the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Encourage employees to take short breaks every hour to stand up, stretch, and move around. These breaks provide an opportunity to increase blood flow, relieve muscle tension, and re-energise the body and mind.

Desk Stretches and Exercises

Desk stretches and exercises offer a convenient and effective way to incorporate movement into the office environment. By taking a few minutes to stretch and exercise at the desk, individuals can counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting and promote better physical well-being. Here are some simple stretches and exercises that can be done right at the desk:

• Neck Stretches: Gently tilt the head to the side, bringing the ear toward the shoulder, and hold for 15-30 seconds on each side. Repeat the stretch by tilting the head forward and backwards to relieve tension in the neck and upper back.
• Shoulder Rolls: Shrug the shoulders up toward the ears, then roll them backwards in a circular motion. Repeat this exercise for 10-15 seconds, then reverse the direction and roll the shoulders forward.
• Upper Back Stretch: Interlace the fingers in front of the chest, palms facing away. Slowly push the palms forward, rounding the upper back, and hold for 15-30 seconds. This stretch helps counteract hunching and promotes better posture.
• Seated Spinal Twist: Sit tall in the chair, cross one leg over the opposite knee, and gently twist the torso toward the crossed leg. Hold the twist for 15-30 seconds, then switch sides. This exercise helps release tension in the back and improves spinal mobility.
• Leg Extensions: While seated, extend one leg forward, keeping it parallel to the ground, and hold for a few seconds. Lower the leg and repeat with the other leg. This exercise helps activate the leg muscles and promotes blood circulation.
• Desk Push-Ups: Stand a few feet away from the desk and place your hands shoulder-width apart on the edge of the desk. Step back to an angle and lower your chest towards the desk, then push back up. This exercise strengthens the upper body and engages the core muscles.

Active Meetings and Walking Breaks

Encourage a culture of movement by incorporating active meetings and walking breaks. Instead of gathering around a conference table, suggest conducting meetings while taking a walk or standing. Walking breaks can be taken individually or as a team, allowing one to get moving and engage in light physical activity. These active breaks not only promote movement but also encourage collaboration and creativity.

Ergonomic Workstation Setup

An ergonomic workstation setup is essential for promoting movement and supporting better posture in the office. It involves creating a workspace that is ergonomically designed to optimise comfort, productivity, and overall well-being.

One of the key elements of an ergonomic workstation is an adjustable standing desk. These desks allow users to switch between sitting and standing positions, encouraging movement throughout the day. By alternating between sitting and standing, individuals can avoid prolonged periods of static sitting and engage different muscle groups. This promotes blood circulation, reduces the risk of musculoskeletal issues, and increases energy levels.
Shop Standing Desks

In addition to adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs play a vital role in supporting proper posture and reducing strain on the body. These chairs are designed with features such as adjustable height, lumbar support, and armrests, which help maintain a neutral spine position and provide optimal support for the back, shoulders, and neck. By using an ergonomic chair, individuals can alleviate pressure on the spine, minimise discomfort, and improve overall sitting posture.
Shop Active Seating

Furthermore, incorporating other ergonomic accessories can enhance the movement-friendly setup. For example, standing desk converters and monitor stands contribute to a more comfortable and aligned workstation. These accessories promote proper wrist and forearm positioning, adjusting the height and angle of the monitor to eye level.
Shop Standing Desk Converters

Other accessories like anti-fatigue mats and wobble boards offer additional benefits for an ergonomic workstation setup. Anti-fatigue mats provide cushioning and support, reducing strain on the feet and legs during prolonged standing. Wobble boards promote active sitting by engaging core muscles and improving balance, helping to prevent muscle stiffness and enhance posture.
Shop Active Feet

The benefits of an ergonomic workstation setup extend beyond comfort and posture. When individuals have the freedom to adjust their workstations and move freely, they are more likely to stay engaged, focused, and energised throughout the day.

Creating a Movement-Friendly Office Environment

Workplace Policies and Culture

Creating a movement-friendly office environment goes beyond individual efforts. It requires the support of workplace policies and a positive office culture that prioritises employee well-being. Encouraging movement and regular breaks should be embedded within the fabric of the organisation.

Supportive workplace policies can include guidelines that promote movement breaks, flexible scheduling to accommodate a physical activity, and opportunities for employees to engage in wellness initiatives. By implementing such policies, organisations demonstrate their commitment to employee health and create an environment that supports movement and overall well-being.

Standing Desks and Active Workstations

Standing desks and active workstations have gained popularity due to their ability to promote movement and reduce sedentary behaviour. Standing desks provide an alternative to prolonged sitting, allowing individuals to work while standing. By using a standing desk, employees can easily switch between sitting and standing positions, promoting movement, and engaging different muscle groups. Active workstations take this concept further by incorporating features such as mobile desks or cycling workstations, enabling employees to combine work tasks with physical activity.

The benefits of standing desks and active workstations extend beyond movement alone. They have been shown to improve posture, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues, increase calorie expenditure, and enhance productivity. Organisations that provide standing desks or support the implementation of active workstations are investing in the health and well-being of their employees, promoting movement as an integral part of the workday.

Movement Challenges and Wellness Programs

Movement challenges and wellness programs can be highly effective in encouraging employees to stay active and incorporate movement into their daily routines. These initiatives can take various forms, such as step challenges, fitness classes, group activities, or wellness workshops. By organising movement challenges or implementing wellness programs, organisations inspire employees to set goals, track their progress, and engage in healthy behaviours together.

Movement challenges and wellness programs not only promote physical activity but also create a sense of camaraderie and motivation within the workplace. They foster a supportive community that encourages individuals to prioritise movement and overall well-being. Furthermore, these programs can provide educational resources, expert guidance, and incentives that inspire and empower employees to make positive lifestyle changes.

Get Your Office Moving with Yo-Yo DESK®

Regular movement at the office is of paramount importance for both physical and mental well-being. Individuals and organisations can reap the rewards of improved physical health, enhanced mental well-being, and increased productivity by taking proactive steps towards creating a more active work environment.

Remember, movement is not just a physical necessity but a catalyst for overall growth and vitality. Let's embrace the importance of regular movement at the office and commit to integrating movement into our work routines.

Start today by taking small steps towards a more movement-friendly office environment - browse our range of ergonomic office solutions and experience the transformative power of movement in your work life.

Learn more about our aim to Get Britain Standing!