7 Benefits of Sitting on an Exercise Ball at the Office

Did you notice the exercise (stability) ball where the chair should be at my new desk?  That was mostly there because I was being silly.  This ball is too small for my height (See the table to right to find the right size for you. If you are long legged like me you might need to go up a size because it is more about keeping a right angle at your knees when you are sitting.) .... but it is an interesting concept that I've tried in the past and plan to try again. Here are a few benefits that come from using the ball as a chair:

1. It can help to improve your posture by reminding you to sit up straight.  You notice poor posture more on the ball as you sit.  You still have to choose to sit up straight yourself, but the ball will remind you.  Sitting up straight is the best way to balance, your back will feel it if you don't.
2. It will improve your balance.  Duh! Its called a stability ball for a reason, I don't think I need an explanation there.
3. Improved circulation.  Most desk chairs actually reduce circulation to the lower extremities.  The ball will help combat that.  Its a whole lot less expensive than those fancy ergonomic desk chairs!
4. It works your core!  You know that part we are always trying to tone?!?  To compensate for the instability, the abdominal muscles will be more engaged. Its an extremely low intensity ab workout, but if you sit all day its for a long time ab workout.
5. Burns more calories.  The jury is out in the exact amount.  I've seen numbers up to 350 calories (I think that's a bit high).  The fact is more muscles are engaged throughout the day therefore more calories are burned.  Every little bit helps!  Even if its only 35 calories, over the course of a year that would amount to over 3 pounds but simply changing the way you sit.
6. It encourages extra movement thought the day.  I find myself mindlessly swaying back and forth and bouncing around. A little stretch here and there.  Its like office Pilates :)  With fitness equipment that close all day why not through it a little workout here and there (...I'm getting an idea for a new workout as I write this). 
7. It's just more fun. 'Nuff said.

If you want to try, ease into it.  Believe it or not you will be really sore after a full day.  Maybe try an hour out of your day at first, then two and work your way up.  

If you have to sit all day for work, at lease make a workout out of it!

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