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3 On Your Side: Traditional Desk Gets New Look

By Jim Donovan

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The traditional desk is getting a new look. There's an emerging trend of work stations that are moving people away from the standard sitting position.

This desk gives a whole new meaning to the expression, lying down on the job.

The Altwork Station was designed for people who spend the majority of their day at their computer, like Eric Miller at the Gnomon School of Visual Effects in Los Angeles.

"It's not uncommon for us to be at our desks really on the box for ten to twelve hours a day," said Miller.

Users can stand, sit, recline and even fully lay down, all while continuing their work.

The desk has a thin sheet of metal and magnets are used to keep the keyboard, mouse and other items attached to the desktop.

The monitor is bolted on. Che Voigt is its creator.

"We wanted to make it, at the press of a button, you can transform from one position to another without putting any mental energy into it," said Voigt.

More and more office workers are getting away from sitting at desks. Standing work stations have become popular some even walk at work with a treadmill desk.

And doctors say it's a good thing.

A review in the annals of internal medicine found sitting for prolonged periods of time increased the risk of cardiovascular disease by fourteen percent, cancer by thirteen percent and nearly doubled the risk for diabetes.

The Altwork Station may improve your health but it comes with a cost. The flexible desk will retail for $5,900 when it becomes available later this year.

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