Using a Swiss ball at your desk is a great alternative to a traditional office chair. A Swiss ball at your desk can help combat a sedentary lifestyle, improve your posture, and boost your productivity.
Did you know that sitting for long hours can increase the risk of chronic diseases? According to the WHO (World Health Organization), a sedentary lifestyle causes 3.2 million deaths worldwide each year. Other studies show that 70% of office workers suffer from back problems due to poor posture.
This is why, for your well-being, it is very important to arrange your work environment ergonomically to avoid any health problems.
Why use a ball chair in the office?
Although using a ball seat as an office chair may seem uncomfortable at first, its use offers several benefits, both for our health and well-being.
The Dangers of Sitting Posture
Most employees today work at least 8 hours a day behind a desk.
Although spending your day behind a desk may seem more appealing than spending your day in the fields or on a construction site, prolonged daily sitting has devastating effects on our health and well-being.
Here are the main harmful consequences of prolonged sitting on health:
- obesity,
- musculoskeletal disorders,
- diabetes, cardiovascular problems,
- altered postures,
- metabolic syndrome…
But also a lack of concentration and productivity.
So whether you are an employee or a business owner, the ball seat is an option that might interest you.
The benefits of the ball chair in the office
The benefits of the office ball chair are numerous, both for our health and for our well-being and our productivity.
By replacing your traditional office chair with a ball seat , you benefit from active sitting, which contributes to:
- reduce muscle tension,
- prevent back pain,
- and promote better concentration. As a result, you are more productive.
By incorporating a Swiss Ball into your work , not only do you avoid the harmful effects of prolonged sitting, but you also stimulate your entire muscular and skeletal system.
Benefits of Sitting on a Gym Ball at the Office
The main benefits of sitting on a gym ball at the office are:
Improves posture
Placed behind your desk, the gym ball naturally encourages proper sitting. Its moderate instability encourages your body to continually adjust its posture to maintain balance. This promotes an aligned spine and even body weight distribution, reducing stress on joints and muscles.
Strengthens muscles
When you use a yoga ball at your desk , you are constantly engaged in a dynamic posture. This stimulates the activation of the abdominal, back, and stabilizing muscles, strengthening the deep core muscles. This muscle strengthening helps prevent back pain and posture problems often associated with prolonged sitting.
Stimulates blood circulation
Unlike a traditional office chair, the Swiss ball promotes movement and mobility. Continuous use encourages better blood circulation, reducing fatigue and promoting better concentration. Improved circulation also means increased oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and brain, which can improve mental clarity and productivity.
Promotes activation and concentration
The instability of the Swiss ball stimulates the activation of stabilizing muscles, which promotes concentration by helping to maintain attention for long periods. An active posture on this ball seat also engages the mind, promoting better focus and greater productivity at work.
Encourages movement
Thanks to its dynamic design, the Swiss ball naturally encourages movement. This allows employees to regularly change positions and avoid stagnation, which can help reduce muscle tension and prevent pain associated with prolonged sitting.
Promotes balance and coordination
Using the Swissball at the desk engages stabilizer muscles and promotes balance and coordination. By adapting to the instability of the ball seat , users develop better body awareness and increased coordination, which can have long-term benefits for their health and well-being.
Impacts productivity at work
By promoting dynamic posture, improved blood circulation, and increased focus, using a Swiss ball in the office can have a positive impact on workplace productivity. Employees feel more energized, focused, and motivated, resulting in improved overall performance.
Reduces stress and improves well-being
By encouraging active posture and deep breathing, the Swiss ball can help reduce stress and anxiety. Active sitting on the ball seat promotes the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones, which can lead to feelings of calm and relaxation. This stress reduction can improve morale and contribute to a more positive and productive work environment.
Testimonials: Using a gym ball at the office
Using an exercise ball at the office is sometimes described as the miracle solution to muscle and joint pain caused by prolonged sitting at a desk.
So, myth or reality? Those who use a Swiss ball at work say it better than we do...
Like Stephanie, who resolved persistent back pain by using a Swiss ball at the office :
“I work sitting for 8 hours a day. I had severe lower back pain due to poor posture throughout the day. I now use the ball. It forces me to maintain a dynamic posture throughout the day. And in the evening, miraculously, my back doesn't hurt. I'm delighted and I share my enthusiasm with my colleagues.”
Or Yvonne, who was able to continue sewing without back strain:
“I no longer have that back strain when sewing since using my B loon ! Not only is it very pleasant to use, it also looks great!”
Or Véronique who saw her back pain decrease with the use of a posture ball at the office ...
“I like its look and stability. After a short adjustment period, which is necessary to find the best posture, it allows you to sit upright while working on a computer. I felt less back pain because of its flexibility, which allows for posture readjustment. A very good product that I recommend . ”
To discover the Swiss Ball used by Stéphanie , Yvonne and Véronique , click here .
Would you also like to try the ball chair at work ? We answer all your questions about using the ball chair at the office .
Integrating a ball chair into the office has transformed the daily lives of Stéphanie, Yvonne and Véronique by significantly improving their comfort and health.
Transform your workspace now and improve your well-being with a Bloon ball seat .
FAQ: Everything you need to know about using a ball chair in the office
How to use a gym ball at the office?
To use a gym ball at your desk , sit on it with your feet flat on the floor, knees bent 90 degrees, and back straight. Use it as an alternative office chair and make gentle movements to strengthen muscles and improve your posture.
Which ball should I use for working in the office?
To work at the office with a ball chair , choose a ball chair that fits your size and needs. Look for ones designed specifically for professional use or extended daily use. Bloon gym balls are specially designed for extended use at work and are available in different sizes to suit everyone.
How to sit on a ball properly?
To properly sit on a ball, position yourself in the center with an upright posture, keeping your feet flat on the floor and your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Engage your core muscles to maintain balance.
How to choose the right size desk ball?
To choose the right size desk ball , measure your sitting height and choose a ball with a diameter that matches or is slightly larger. Make sure your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle when sitting on it. For simplicity, Bloon balls come in two different sizes: one for those over 6 feet tall, and one for those under 6 feet tall.
Can using a yoga ball completely replace a traditional office chair?
Using a yoga ball can partially replace a traditional office chair, but it may not be suitable for all work environments or situations. It is recommended to use it in conjunction with an ergonomic chair to avoid excessive fatigue.
What precautions should be taken when using a Pilates ball in the office?
When using a Pilates ball at your desk , make sure you inflate it properly and maintain proper posture to avoid muscle strain. Alternate regularly with an office chair to avoid excessive fatigue.
Can using a gym ball lead to increased muscle fatigue?
Using a gym ball may cause increased muscle fatigue at first, as your stabilizer muscles are used more. However, this should decrease as your muscles adapt to using the gym ball .
How long is it recommended to sit on a ball chair during a workday?
The recommended amount of time to sit on a ball chair during a workday varies depending on personal preference and comfort level. It is recommended to take regular breaks to stretch and change positions.
Can using a desk ball cause pain or discomfort?
Although using a desk ball may cause some pain or discomfort at first, this should decrease as your body adjusts to the posture and movement. If pain persists, consult a healthcare professional.
Are there any people who are not recommended to use a gym ball at the office?
People with severe back problems, dizziness, or other significant health issues should consult their doctor before using an exercise ball in the office .
How to properly inflate and maintain a ball seat?
To properly inflate and maintain a ball seat , use a suitable pump to achieve the correct air pressure. Check the firmness regularly and avoid placing it near heat sources or abrasive surfaces. If you purchase a Bloon ball seat , the pump is included.
What is the typical lifespan of a gym ball and when should I consider replacing it?
The typical lifespan of a gym ball depends on the quality of the material and usage. Generally, it's recommended to replace it every 1 to 2 years, or whenever you notice signs of wear, such as cracks or a loss of firmness. If you're looking for a quality gym ball , Bloon's are among the highest quality on the market.
