Ergonomic Ball Chairs...Benefit or Hazard?

Ergonomic Ball Chairs...is this back posture support a benefit or hazard? Where can I buy or try this 'good posture chair'? I divulged my research here.

Ergonomic ball chairs, in short, has the design elements of a computer chair and the benefits of the ergonomic posture ball combined.

The primary benefit of sitting on these ergonomic balls (also known as posture ball, exercise ball) as opposed to sitting directly on a hard flat surface is that the body responds to the instability of the ball to remain balanced, engaging many more muscles. Your core muscles then become stronger over time and develop good posture.

Similarly, the ergonomic ball chair is made up of an inflated ball which adjusts to the pressure of body weight.

Advantages and Benefits

The distinct advantage of a ball chair over all other forms of chairs is the ability to adjust dynamically to the weight of the person sitting on it.

This feature has a unique advantage for people who sit for long hours - it relieves the spine of excessive pressure and conditions the thigh muscles. - ergonomics-information.com

The posture ball chair is an alternative to office computer chairs. It is burst resistant and improves posture, reduces back pain and relieves stress.

It also helps users to achieve the ideal work posture when working at a desk. You can also adjust the ergonomic ball's height by inflating or deflating it.

Disadvantages

According to Jeanie Croasmun, writing in The Ergonomics Report

The exercise ball might be great for strengthening and toning in the gym or at home, but it can't compete with a truly ergonomic chair for long-term sitting in an office environment.

There are many opinions on whether how well the ergonomic ball chairs work for long term use, back pain and whether it is a health hazard etc. (see previous link)

Some health care professionals seem to recommend it, some oppose them. Most people who have tried the ball chair said it worked, though the majority seemed to prefer the exercise ball to the ergonomic ball chair. However, there is one ergonomic ball chair that stood out from the rest, and received great chair reviews. I wrote about it in the lower half of this page.

The conclusion of whether an ergonomic ball chair is for you - I would advise getting an exercise ball to start, and try out the ergonomic ball chair to see if you really like it.

The 'Best' Ergo Ball Chair

Gaiam Balance Ball Chair

The purpose of this Gaiam Ball Chair was to alleviate aching back/legs and arms which come from working at the desk for hours (sounds like us).

It was developed and designed for people between 5-feet and 5-feet 11-inches tall under the consultation of a chiropractic pioneer Dr. Randy Weinzoff,

Apart from the similar benefits of the exercise balance ball, you'll also get extra support with an adjustable support bar, easy-glide casters, an air pump, and a desktop guide to help keep you moving.

From the manufacturer: This patented design lets you do tension-relieving techniques while seated in the chair - or simply remove the ball to stretch and strengthen key muscles without a trip to the gym.

Relieves stress on the spine, helps prevent back discomfort and repetitive motion disorders, helps prevent health issues related to poor posture, illustrates non-impact strengthening exercises and stretching and keeps you active, even on busy work days.

When you sit in the BalanceBall Chair, the ball acts as a shock absorber and eases your body into an ergonomic position. When your muscles become stiff or whenever you want a break, the exercises in this guide will help you relax, build strength and foster a wide range of health benefits.

Exercises performed with the BalanceBall in the chair offer maximum support, stability and convenience. Exercises performed on the ball alone allow greater range of movement.

Product Features