Researchers at Spain’s University of Castilla-La Mancha reviewed 17 studies involving 2,886 students and 163 teachers to assess how standing desks affect physical health, mental wellbeing, and academic performance.
Their findings suggest that mental health benefits were most notable. Three out of four studies reported reductions in anxiety and improved mood among students using standing desks. Perceptions were largely positive, with ten studies noting favorable attitudes toward the equipment.
One study showed that users of standing desks had lower blood pressure, but it was not clear whether they reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Evidence for physical health was mixed: only one of four studies identified a decrease in physical strain, while another showed lower blood pressure. However, broader reviews found only weak evidence of cardiovascular improvements.
In terms of academic impact, seven studies noted modest gains in classrooms equipped with standing desks, while five reported no significant differences.
The researchers concluded that standing desks may encourage healthier movement patterns and foster improved mental wellbeing in university settings, though they emphasized that the evidence base remains limited.
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