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Standing desks are all well and good — until you realize your feet and lower back are killing you from standing still on the hard ground for several hours at once. As retail workers, hotel concierges, restaurant hosts, and others have known for years, the key is a good standing mat.
The best standing desk mats are pretty simple in design but go a long way towards easing foot fatigue and discomfort. If you’re going to be standing up at work, you might as well do it comfortably.
What Are the Benefits of a Standing Mat?
While standing rather than sitting for the majority of your day can be beneficial for your health, standing without moving on a hard surface for a long time can also create stress on the body. Here are some ways a standing desk mat addresses this.
Reduces Back Stress: You might have noticed that it’s not just your feet that start to ache after standing for several hours, but your back might feel sore as well. In addition to moving around every so often, a soft surface that provides some support can help relieve strain on the rest of your body.
Anti-Fatigue: Another thing that happens after standing on a hard surface for long periods of time is that it can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to spending an entire day on your feet. Cushioning your feet where you stand is easier on the body, leading to less exhaustion and fatigue by the end of the day.
Improves Posture: A soft, yet firm supportive mat, by reducing stress on the rest of your body, can also help improve your posture. You’ll stand up straighter for longer.
What Makes a Good Standing Desk Mat?
The best standing desk mats come in a range of sizes, thicknesses and designs. You can choose between a basic cushioned mat or an ergonomically-designed model that encourages movement. In either case, durability and quality of materials and construction are paramount.
Type: A basic mat is exactly what it sounds like — a thick, cushioned mat. There are also moving mats designed specifically for standing desks, that promote good posture and reduce back strain while encouraging subtle movement.
Weight Limit: Most basic mats have a weight limit of about 350 pounds, so it’s important to make sure the mat suits your body before making a purchase.
Material: Look for an inch or so of thick cushioning, generally foam, and a durable rubber non-slip underside that keeps the mat in place. That way, it’s soft and gentle on top, but sturdy (and won’t shift) underneath you.
Versatility: We’ve found popular standing mats that work great for the office when paired with a standing desk, but these mats are also great for chefs, for retail (say, if you’re standing at a cash register all day), under the kitchen sink, and for other jobs or activities where you’ll be on your feet.
