Anti-fatigue Mats - the unsung Ergonomic Hero

01 Apr 2022

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Standing desks, standing desks, standing desks. Everyone is talking about them, recommending them and using them. But there's another ergonomic solution that is just as equally as important as the standing desk, that everyone seems to forget... Anti-fatigue Mat!

If you've got a standing desk, you will relate all to well to this scenario: you've been standing at your desk, pounding away at your keyboard and mouse because the work just never seems to end, and you find yourself shifting your body weight from one leg, to the other. You adopt a wide stance and for a few short minutes, find that more comfortable, but then find yourself rolling and swaying your hips around almost like you're using a hola hoop. Again the comfort wears off and your feet start to feel heavy again. Next up you try adopting the one legged stance, with your other leg held up like a yoga pose, but it just doesn't hit the comfort level you're yearning for either. So then you start lightly leaning your weight onto the edge of the desk, hoping it might be another undiscovered comfortable standing position. Nope, feet feel heavy again.

Sound familiar?

Well that's because the vast majority of standing desk users don't realise that standing for too long can also be uncomfortable. Your feet in particular will really feel the discomfort, not to mention your hips and back. But luckily there is a really simple solution that helps alleviate this discomfort and will keep you standing for longer.

anti-fatigue standing mat for standing desk workstation office

What is an Anti-Fatigue Mat?

Anti-fatigue mats are pressure absorbing floor mats that help to reduce physical fatigue caused by standing for a long period of time. Physical fatigue is caused by a person's muscles constricting and reducing blood flow to specific areas of the body. In the case of standing for a long time, these areas can include the feet, legs, and back. Anti-fatigue mats help to prevent this fatigue from occurring. The flexibility of the mat encourages muscles to adjust by contracting and expanding. This movement helps increase circulation of blood to your legs and the amount of oxygen reaching the heart.

Top Benefits Of an Anti-Fatigue Mat

Anti-fatigue mats can help reduce physical fatigue and discomfort by up to 50 percent. Who would have thought such a small piece of foam could have such profound impact?

When you are standing for extended periods of time, the surface you are standing on will significantly impact the level of physical fatigue you will experience. The harder the surface, the higher the discomfort.

Implementing an Anti-fatigue mat will help you work and stand more comfortably at your standing desk. They provide a comfortable surface for you to stand on while working, and their flexibility encourages your leg muscles to be more active.

How to Choose An Anti-Fatigue Mat

When choosing an anti-fatigue mat, there are several features to keep in mind.

Not all floor mats will work as effective as an anti-fatigue mats. The best anti-fatigue mats are elastic yet firm so that you can stand comfortably on it while having your leg muscles activated.

Consider the size and shape of the mat you will need for your workstation. Some people have plenty of space and a very large standing desk, so a larger mat is suitable. Others may need something a bit more compact in dimensions. Looking for an anti-fatigue mat with sloped edges as these are less likely to cause any trip hazards.

Remember that the mat is likely to get a bit dirty, after all you are standing on it with your feet / shoes. Choose one that is plastic and can be easily cleaned.

If you're looking for an anti-fatigue mat for your workstation, look at our range or reach out to discuss things further.