Standing for long periods of time has become a normal part of daily life in the workplace for many, but it has now also quite common at home, especially with the increase in the popularity of standing desks. Whilst it comes with an array of health benefits, standing for too long can do more harm than good, causing fatigue and discomfort.
Luckily, anti-fatigue mats are an effective solution that can help you avoid these possibilities. By giving you a cushioned surface to stand on, these mats reduce the strain placed on your feet, legs, and lower back, not only providing comfort but also creating healthier working conditions and improving productivity. In this guide, we’ll explain what anti fatigue mats are, how they work, and how they can benefit you at home.
What are Anti-Fatigue Mats?
Anti-fatigue mats are floor coverings that are designed to provide cushioning and support for people who spend long periods of time standing. These cushioned surfaces are softer and more forgiving than traditional flooring, meaning they will help prevent the discomfort, fatigue, and health problems that are caused by standing on hard surfaces for extended hours.
How do They Work?
These mats work by offering ergonomic support that reduces strain on the body caused by standing on hard surfaces. This is achieved by the materials that they are composed of, which encourage subtle movements in the feet and legs. These small movements then promote better blood circulation, which has a range of benefits within itself, from reduced swelling and inflammation to minimised numbness and an increased oxygen supply. All the benefits brought from this improved blood circulation result in a reduction in fatigue and pain, promoting more comfortable standing. Beyond improved circulation, the materials used in anti-fatigue matting also absorb the impact of standing, distributing body weight evenly, which then further relieves pressure on the joints and muscles.
Benefits of Anti-Fatigue Mats
Improved Comfort
Standing on a hard surface for several hours can lead to tiredness and soreness. Anti-fatigue mats provide a layer of cushioning that makes this standing a lot more comfortable.
Enhanced Productivity
Feeling comfortable and pain-free means you are more likely to stay productive. By reducing fatigue and soreness, you will be less distracted and have an easier time working at your standing desk or pursuing your other interests.
Reduced Risk of Health Issues
Prolonged standing can lead to wider health issues like prevalent back pain, joint issues, and leg fatigue. Anti-fatigue mats lower these risks by supporting better posture.
Materials Used in Anti-Fatigue Mats
Foam
Foam mats are lightweight and provide excellent cushioning, making them ideal for low-impact areas like home offices. Our Soft Anti Fatigue Office Mat is a great addition for your standing desk areas, not only due to its foam cushioning but also its soft nylon surface, which adds an extra layer of comfort to make it stand out from the rest.
Rubber
Rubber mats are highly durable, being able to resist wear and tear from frequent use. They also offer superb grip, reducing the chances of slips and trips. We offer Kleen Komfort Safety rubber mats that offer fatigue relief along with excellent traction, allowing you to reduce the strain on your muscles as well as keep your footing.
Hybrid Construction
Some anti-fatigue mats combine both foam and rubber to create products that can offer comfort and durability. A great example of this is Grimeford Mill’s Clean Cushion Anti-Fatigue Mat. Its foam and rubber construction gives it the durability necessary for numerous other application opportunities outside indoor standing desk offices, making it the ultimate anti-fatigue matting solution.
Grimeford Mill: Matting Made with a Purpose
At Grimeford Mill, we take pride in offering a diverse range of high-quality mats, from cushioned anti-fatigue matting that helps make your standing desk activities easier to coir entrance mats that can scrape up dirt and stop it from muddying up your interior floors. Our products serve a variety of purposes, making our collection dependable and unparallelled. Find your matting solution today by browsing our website. If you have any questions, then don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team by emailing [email protected].