Why use an anti fatigue mat with your stand up desk?

Last updated 20th January 2021

The health benefits of alternating between sitting and standing while you work are well known. But getting the best standing desk is only half the battle. What truly ergonomic sit stand workstation is complete without a good quality standing desk mat?

As the "anti-fatigue" part of name might suggest, these mats are designed to reduce fatigue caused by standing for long periods of time on a hard surface. This allows you to stand for longer periods at your sit stand desk, maximising the benefits gained while standing.

A common misconception is that a standing desk mat is only used for hard floor surfaces such as floorboards or tiles, and is not necessary on carpeted floors. However most commercial grade carpet is tough and hard wearing, designed to last as long as possible before needing replacement. While this is great for your company’s bottom line, it’s not an ideal surface to be standing on for long periods without some form of cushioning.

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What are the benefits of using a standing desk mat?

Recent studies have shown it only takes around 90 minutes of standing on hard floors until fatigue sets in, and only 50 minutes before a decrease in concentration occurs. In order to get the most out of your sit stand desk you want to be able to maximise your standing time (without going overboard). 

Improve blood flow

Cushion your feet

Promote movement

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Types of Anti Fatigue Mat

Standsoft

Features

• Bevelled edge
• 10 yr warranty
• Attractive textured surface
• Firm, supportive core
• Dimensions: 800x500x15mm

Designed to be easy to clean, difficult to trip over, and perfect for just about any workstation. The Standsoft is resistant to spills and stains and features a beveled edge to prevent tripping and injury. It’s firm, consistent body offers just enough firmness to keep you on your feet without getting uncomfortable, reducing postural fatigue.

At $89 the Standsoft is significantly less expensive than most other good quality stand up desk mats, and boasts a 10 year warranty which is definitely a testament to its high durability.

Topo Not-flat Mat

• Slides easily out from desk, position with one foot
• Precision engineered
• Cushioned terrain
• 100% HQ polyurethane foam
• Durable pebbled skin

This “not-flat standing mat” is the first mat designed specifically for use with standing desks. The contoured terrain creates dynamic movement by causing you to subconsciously move your feet and vary your standing position. Also available in a mini version, to suit smaller people or those with less space.

Steppie Balance Board

Features

• Encourages movement
• Activates your core
• Burn energy
• Polypropylene co-polymer
• Supports up to 200kgs

Whilst not strictly a mat, we include the Steppie Balance board in this lineup due to its unique rounded underside. This integrated instability activates your core and forces you to shift your balance periodically, burning energy and encouraging frequent miniscule movements in areas of your body that are normally static (hips, knees, ankles). Although it seems counterintuitive, this is actually less tiring than standing still.

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