Abstract: A lifting column for a height-adjustable work table comprises a first hollow profile element and a second hollow profile element. The first hollow profile element encloses the second hollow profile element at least in sections. The second hollow profile element is telescopically displaceable in a displacement axis parallel to a vertical axis of the first hollow profile element. A guide device is arranged on the first hollow profile element and comprises a guide element that can be releasably connected to the guide device. A guide element surface of the at least one guide element abuts an outer surface of the second hollow profile element. A height-adjustable work table comprises at least two such lifting columns. A worktop is fixed to one end of the first hollow profile elements. The transmission units are connected to each other via a drive connection element and can be driven by the drive unit.