When exercising, some of you have used a stability ball to strengthen your core muscles. Today, you can see some people use this type of fitness equipment as an office chair. The main reason is due to the numerous benefits this ball provides. In fact, there are numerous reasons to use an exercise ball at work. But, is this fitness equipment really a safe and effective alternative for an office chair? What are the benefits to using an exercise ball as an office chair?
1. A FREQUENT CHANGE IN YOUR SITTING POSITION
Sitting all day can lead to several health problems, like hip and back pain. One reason for this is when you sit for a long period in the same position, especially if you have a bad posture. By sitting in a stability ball, you’ll need to frequently change your position to keep your body steady. Through this, you can also improve your balance – whether your sitting, standing, or walking.
2. IMPROVES YOUR BLOOD CIRCULATION
Sitting down on a traditional chair may restrict your blood flow, eventually leading to tight muscles and pain. Fortunately, one of the best reasons to use an exercise ball at work is to help improve your blood circulation, which occurs when you frequently change your positions. As a result, you may avoid experiencing back pain caused by tensed or tight muscles.
3. BURN CALORIES WHILE SITTING
As mentioned, sitting on a stability ball requires some effort and a lot of movements to keep your body steady. As a result, you can expect to burn some calories while working. However, you can only burn minimal calories through this method. So, if you’re aiming to shed some unwanted pounds, you have to avoid high-calorie snacks. Instead, you can opt for nutritious foods with energy-boosting effects, like roasted edamame, to satisfy your hunger at work.
4. GET A WORKOUT
Aside from those reasons to use an exercise ball at work, sitting on this fitness equipment will also give you an ab workout. Remember, you need to engage different muscle groups, including your abdominal and leg muscles, to balance your body on the ball. Through this, you will not only improve your balance but strengthen your core as well. Plus, using a fitness ball will prevent the tightening of your hamstrings, which is commonly caused by sitting on a regular chair for long periods.
5. FEEL MORE ENERGETIC
One of the most common causes of an afternoon slump is when you stay in one position for too long. Sitting on a fitness ball, on the other hand, requires small movements. As a result, you can feel more energized even after work.
6. ENCOURAGES YOU TO SIT PROPERLY
Using a fitness ball may seem easy, but it will take a lot of effort to sit on this equipment. This is especially true for first timers. As time goes on, you will eventually learn how to balance your body by using the right posture. Thus, the last in this list of reasons to use an exercise ball at work is encouraging you to sit properly, correcting your posture problems.
IS USING A MEDICINE BALL AT WORK SAFE AND EFFECTIVE?
Although there are several positive reasons to use a stability ball as an office chair, it also has some drawbacks. For one, sitting on an exercise ball all day can cause muscle fatigue and possible injuries, especially when improperly used. Plus, you won’t be able to relax during your break. So, don’t throw away your ergonomic chair, especially if it is a high-quality product. Instead, you can alternate between the two by using the exercise ball for about one to two hours per day and switch to the chair afterward. That way, you can get the benefits of a stability ball without hurting yourself. Lastly, don’t forget to stand up and stretch. Doing this will not only wake you up but also prevent the negative effects of sitting for long periods.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
The Best Post-Workout Foods for Vegans
