I'm hoping that today's post counterbalances an article that I saw last week in the New York Times.? The article, written by Gretchen Reynolds, asked whether or not ball chairs are better to sit on at work.? Reynolds, who is a regular health contributor to the Times, answered the question by saying "no."? So why am I suggesting that you get a ball chair?? Keep reading.
What's a Ball Chair?
Ball chairs are really just big blue inflated balls.? They are often found in health clubs, but offices are now providing them to workers who feel that they improve their posture or burn more calories if they sit on something backless and unstable for part of the day.?? Do they really provide those benefits?? According to Reynolds, they don't.? But the research she cites is very limited, probably because there isn't a lot of research out there about using them.
Benefits of Using a Ball
It seems reasonable to me that sitting on a ball wouldn't burn substantially more calories.? And if you slump while sitting - in a chair or on a ball - you won't increase core stability or improve your posture.? But sitting on an unstable surface does prevent you from getting too comfy.? And if you are not comfortable, you're more likely to get up and move around.? Moving more during the day has many well-documented benefits.
In addition to the potential for increased activity during the day, the blue ball is a great exercise tool.? If you have it sitting right underneath you, it's a great reminder to use it.? There are dozens of great beginning level exercises that you can do at your desk, or in your workspace that will improve your strength, stability and yes, burn calories.
I don't say this often, but ignore the New York Times.? Go buy a ball.?? But before you do that, friend me on Facebook to get more handy quick tips about diet and exercise.
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