Best standing desk accessories to get you on your feet

If you bought a standing desk, chances are you’re interested in the health benefits of, well, not sitting all day. Better posture, reduced back pain, and an increase in productivity due to a boost in mood and focus are among some of the top benefits of standing, according to a 2021 research paper published by the National Institutes of Health.

But without the proper equipment to support you while you’re standing, there are some health drawbacks compared to sitting. Those who stand have reported an increase in leg and foot pain and vein issues, including varicose veins, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety reported. Experts recommend having the proper support to mitigate pain issues and frequently switching between standing and sitting to maximize the ergonomic benefits while reducing the risk of injury. We’ve compiled some of the best accessories to help get you standing safely and ergonomically while you’re working at your standing desk.

Anti-fatigue mats

Paired with comfortable, supportive sneakers, anti-fatigue mats help you take the pressure off of your feet, knees, and legs. When it comes to padded support for your feet, you’ll want to look for a thicker mat—some mats start at just 0.5-inches thick while industrial mats can be upward of 1 inch in thickness—though the actual footprint of the mat doesn’t really matter if you don’t intend to move around too much. These mats can come in several different colors and patterns to match your decor or provide a pop of color to your workspace.