The problem with online business, is all that sitting can cause back strain! Is this the solution?

Dien,

I raised all my working surfaces to a height of 38 inches so that I could stand (not sit) while working 4 to 6 hours per day at my computers.

You would not believe how beneficial this is for your body and mind! Do this and you will see that your energy level will double. In addition, because standing burns at least double the calories as sitting, it's a fabulous way to keep your weight down.

I have to admit that I am a fitness addict. But anyone who tries this will find that it is physically and mentally transforming.

Robert Campbell

Hi Robert,

How did you first decide to test out a standing desk? Did you have someone recommend it to you?

I might just have to give that a try.

Standing, but slightly awkwardly in front of a computer on a 29 inch desk,

Erik Lukas

I saw it on a DOD documentary. He works 10-12 hours a day and he's what, 70 years old? Amazing!

Tim

Hi Erik,

When I talk on the telephone in my office, I like to stand because my energy level (and the passion in my words) seems to ratchet up considerably.

You should do this, for example, when you record your telephone voice-mail message.

Maybe it's just a personal thing, but I get my best ideas when I am standing vs. sitting. And I get my very best ideas when I am running four miles in the soft sand on the beach in San Diego.

I don't use desks. I use tables (38 inches deep x 66 inches wide) and I elevate these work surfaces with with concrete blocks that are 8 inches in height.

Nice hearing from you again, Erik. By the way, I use to be a hot-rodder in my youth ... just like you. I owned a 1967 Camaro with a 396 engine (375 HP or so). Those were the days of the "muscle cars" as they used to call them. I also owned a 1967 Mustang with a Hi-Performance 289 engine. Two four-barrel carbs, cam with solid lifters, 411 axle, etc, etc. 375 HP. It was a real street racer. Oh the memories of youth!

Best wishes,

Robert Campbell

> Hi Erik,
> When I talk on the telephone in my office, I
> like to stand because my energy level (and
> the passion in my words) seems to ratchet up
> considerably.

Fantastic! I'm always open to any ideas for increasing my energy level.

> You should do this, for example, when you
> record your telephone voice-mail message.

I've definitely noticed the enthusiasm/clear thinking difference of standing while on phone vs. sitting.

> Maybe it's just a personal thing, but I get
> my best ideas when I am standing vs.
> sitting. And I get my very best ideas when I
> am running four miles in the soft sand on
> the beach in San Diego.

It's funny how creativity just pops up like that when you exercise.

> Nice hearing from you again, Erik. By the
> way, I use to be a hot-rodder in my youth
> ... just like you. I owned a 1967 Camaro
> with a 396 engine (375 HP or so). Those were
> the days of the "muscle cars" as
> they used to call them. I also owned a 1967
> Mustang with a Hi-Performance 289 engine.
> Two four-barrel carbs, cam with solid
> lifters, 411 axle, etc, etc. 375 HP. It was
> a real street racer. Oh the memories of
> youth!

Those sound like a blast. And I bet that 289 got revved to the moon!

I know.... the memories of youth!

I'm still working on em :)

Erik

Hi Robert,

Thanks for sharing your usage of a "standing desk". I had never heard of that - but it sounds like a good idea to me!

I agree with you about energy levels... I seem to have more energy when I'm standing too. If I really have to think about something, I stand up and pace around... Just can't do it as effectively sitting down. I don't know why!

I'd have to do a bit of transforming to get my setup to be friendly to standing, but wow, what a great idea! It's certainly something I'll be looking into.... I might try to rig up something temporarily, just so I can get a "feel" for it. :)

- Dien

I have a friend who has a treadmill under his desk. So the whole time he's on the computer he's walking on the treadmill.

~ Dan

Hi Dan and all,

Well - it's official. I'm experimenting with the "standing desk".

I rigged up a temporary measure anyhow. I placed a couple of boxes on top of a table (to make it the right height). Then put my notebook computer on top. I'm typing this standing up!

I like it! I like the fact I can easily pace back and forth whenever I want to. If I get excited, I can jump for joy! (Much harder to do while seated.)

I haven't got a treadmill yet... That may come later! ;)

Thanks everyone.... :)

I'll give you all an update of what I think of these systems in a couple weeks, after I've had more time to try it all out for a little longer... :)

- Dien