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Working at an office shouldn't leave you with aches and pains in parts of your back and neck where you didn't even know you had muscles. And yet, spending hours in a chair can do that. But there's a solution: the best balance ball chairs for the office provide an unconventional, but healthier way, to sit and work at your desk. They can even make you stronger and give you an excuse to get in a mini workout without having to leave your job and hit the gym.
When you spend hours slouching in a typical office chair, you put unnecessary strain on your back and shoulders — and that's assuming the chair itself isn't a total dud and can actually support your back. But trade that swivel chair in for a stability ball and your core muscles immediately have to work harder to keep you balanced and upright. As a result, your spine will be aligned, your posture can improve, and you'll strengthen your core. Plus, it doesn't hurt that a little bouncing on an exercise ball during that weekly brainstorming session can help inspire creative thoughts.
A versatile exercise ball can be used during pilates, barre, or in conjunction with other gym workouts. But considering how much more time we spend at the office than at barre (like, a whole lot more time), it's really nice to know there are exercises you can do at your desk that require little more than a stability ball and your best balancing efforts.
These five highly rated stability balls for the office come in a wide range of price points, colors, and sizes. Find one that's perfect for you and you won't think twice about your old office chair.
1
The Overall Best Stability Ball Chair
- Also available on Walmart, $170, and Office Depot, $200
This Zenergy exercise ball chair can strengthen core muscles and improve posture and stability, and the consistent bounce and motion it can provide actually helps keep your creativity levels up at work. This chair comes in eleven styles and the seat height is 23 inches when fully inflated. It has durable steel legs (or choose a model with a swivel base) and comes with an air pump to inflate the ball.
Pros: Adjustable height, durable steel legs, lots of great color options
Cons: Can stain, no slipcovers, doesn’t have rollers
One reviewer wrote: “Life. Changing. Chair. [...] Takes a week or two to get used to, but after that, I’ve never looked back. It’s by far my favorite office chair I’ve ever had. [...] 10/10. Nothing I’d change!”
2
A 2-In-1 Combo For Work & Working Out
- Also available on Walmart, $70, Gaiam, $70, and Home Depot, $80
This stability ball and chair combo can be used together at the office or you can remove the ball to use it separately for working out at home. Designed for users 5-foot to 5-foot-11, this balance-ball chair fits most standard desks, but if you need something taller, the company sells leg extenders (separately) that add 2 inches to the height. Otherwise, this amazing ball desk chair comes with an air pump, an adjustable metal support ball, four easy-glide casters with two back wheels that are lockable, and a desktop exercise guide. Choose among seven colors like blue, green, and gray.
Pros: Ball can be removed for separate use, has lockable wheels
Cons: Not adjustable, leg extenders sold separately
One reviewer wrote: “Great alternative to an office chair [...] A yoga ball was recommended to me by my physical therapist for lower pack pain. I just set it up and I love it! I would recommend it to anyone who has to sit at a desk or computer all day. Plus, I can use the ball for exercise or strectching.”
3
This Office-Friendly Stability Ball With A Handle
You can snag this sleek balance ball chair in a variety of colors, which include both fabric and faux leather options, so you’re sure to find a version that fits your workspace’s decor. The removable cover features a handle that reviewers have attested makes it easier to move around — the fabric versions of the cover are even machine-washable. Inside the cover is a durable PVC ball that’s designed to support weights up to 400 pounds. It comes in two sizes: The Standard has a sitting height of 22 to 24 inches, and the Max has a sitting height of 24 to 26 inches. Plus, if you don’t love it within the first six months, the manufacturer will replace or refund your Luno.
Pros: Fabric cover is removable and washable, available in or faux leather styles, has a handle
Cons: Doesn’t have legs, is designed with seams that may be itchy
One reviewer wrote: “Have been experiencing serious back pain working from home and sitting in an office chair all day. This has helped greatly. It’s the perfect size and I love the fabric cover. Makes it look professional.”
4
An Affordable Exercise Ball That You Can Use As A Chair
Despite not coming with standard chair components, this stability ball can certainly be used in place of an office chair — and you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank because this is one of the most affordable and versatile exercise ball options around. Plus, it comes in a variety of sizes which allows you to pick the height (from 38 to 85 centimeters) that best suits your body and office environment. This ball is made from BPA-free, slip-resistant material that can withstand up to 2,000 pounds, and comes in seven colors. It includes a pump, plug, remover, and measuring tape. It comes with a two-year warranty.
Pros: Affordable option, comes in five sizes, can support up to 2,000 pounds
Cons: Doesn’t have legs or a stand, reviewers have reported it can feel “grippy” or “sticky”
One reviewer wrote: “Great exercise ball [...] This ball is just what I was looking for! I am using it for exercises and as an office chair. I love it!”
5
The Best Stability Ball Stool For A Standing Desk
- Also available on Home Depot, $13
Stability balls are traditionally not compatible with standing desks, but this wobble stool aims to bring the benefits of having an "active seat" to those with taller tables. The stool features a wobble disc at the base, and adjusts from 33 inches to 323 inches, so you can use it with a regular desk too.
Pros: Compatible with a standing desk, adjustable
Cons: May be too tall for shorter desks, the seat is described as “too firm” by one reviewer
One reviewer wrote: “Great balance stool for standing desk [...] I alternate between standing, sitting, and now perching/balancing throughout my work day. This stool is comfy and adjustable, making it a great option when I want to lean instead of standing. Good quality.”
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