A standing desk works best when you alternate positions and keep your workstation aligned in both sitting and standing.
1) Set your standing height correctly
When you stand, aim for a neutral posture: shoulders relaxed, elbows close to your sides, and wrists straight while you type and use the mouse.
Keep your mouse right next to your keyboard at the same height so you’re not reaching and twisting your shoulder.
2) Keep your monitor in the “safe zone”
CCOHS suggests the monitor is generally comfortable when the view is about 15 degrees (or slightly lower) below your horizontal line of sight, and that the top of the screen should not be higher than eye level.
CCOHS also suggests an arm’s length is a good starting point for monitor distance, then adjust for comfort and vision.
3) Use a simple sit‑stand schedule (start small)
Start with short standing blocks and gradually build up, because comfort improves when your body adapts rather than forcing long standing right away.
Set a reminder to switch positions regularly so the desk actually gets used as intended.
4) Add comfort where it matters most (feet + legs)
CCOHS notes supportive footwear helps and suggests considering an anti-fatigue mat for standing work.
If standing feels “fine” at first but tiring later, a mat is often the quickest upgrade to make standing more sustainable.
5) Reduce wrist strain while you switch positions
CCOHS recommends maintaining neutral wrists and avoiding pressure from resting your wrists on the desk surface.
When you change desk height, re-check your keyboard/mouse position so your wrists stay straight and your shoulders stay relaxed.
