The ideal height for your standing desk is primarily determined by your personal dimensions, specifically the height that allows your elbows to be bent at a 90-degree angle while your forearms are parallel to the floor.
Finding Your Ergonomic Standing Desk Height
Setting up your standing desk correctly is crucial for maintaining good posture and preventing discomfort. The fundamental principle is to position the desk surface so that your elbows are at a right angle (90 degrees) when you are standing naturally with relaxed shoulders.
According to a reference from April 26, 2021, to make sure you get the height of your standing desk right, to start, set the standing desk at around elbow height. This basically means that your elbows need to be at a 90-degree position from the ground. For example, for a person of average height (5'11”), the standing desk needs to be at a height of 44 inches.
Practical Steps to Determine Your Desk Height
To find the perfect height for you:
- Stand Up Straight: Stand in front of your desk with your shoulders relaxed.
- Bend Your Elbows: Bend your elbows to a 90-degree angle, keeping your forearms parallel to the floor.
- Adjust the Desk: The surface of your desk (where your keyboard and mouse will rest) should be just at or slightly below this elbow height.
This position ensures that your wrists remain straight and neutral when you are typing or using your mouse, which helps reduce the risk of strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. Your monitor should also be positioned so that the top of the screen is at or slightly below eye level, regardless of whether you are sitting or standing.
