Advocates say alternating between sitting and standing can ease back strain, improve posture, and encourage movement during the day. and in a new episode, available on BBC Sounds, has turned his attention to standing desks. Sitting for eight or more hours a day is known to cause major health risks, which is one reason standing desks are growing in popularity. The podcast discussion covers the benefits of these desks and the importance of alternating between standing and sitting (standing for too long at a time can load the lumbar spine, causing back complaints). Many people already own a kitchen timer, and if you don’t, you can pick one up for just a few dollars.