In recent years, the exercise ball, also known as a stability ball or Swiss ball, has become a popular alternative to the traditional office chair. This is based on the theory that your abdominal muscles and back muscles are constantly engaged to help maintain proper posture and balance. But does it actually help?

What Does the Science Say?

But it’s not a theory backed by science, according to Brian Lowe, a research industrial engineer at the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. He and his colleagues were concerned when they saw workplace wellness campaigns displaying images of employees sitting on exercise balls, because they weren’t sure sitting on a free-rolling exercise ball was “an appropriate general workplace recommendation,” Lowe wrote via email.

After examining the issue, they published a commentary in the American Journal of Health Promotion in March 2016 that ended: “Although the existing body of literature is small, and the studies have limitations… the literature to date does not suggest significant health benefits to justify unstable sitting as a health promotion practice.” Until studies showed more conclusive benefits, they added, workplace recommendations involving exercise balls should be viewed sceptically.

It was also found that spinal shrinkage occurred more when sitting on an exercise ball compared to sitting on an office chair. Most people do not have the core strength to sit on the ball properly, which automatically makes the user tuck their feet under the ball to stop it roll, therefore defeating the purpose. Another point to think about is the size of the ball. A good ergonomic chair will be fully adjustable to fit your body and ensure that your posture isn’t damaging. Aside from potentially choosing an exercise ball with the correct diameter for your height, there is no support for your arms or back resulting in discomfort.