If you’ve visited our site before, you’ll know that we’re all about finding solutions that help you to be healthier in the office. In today’s short post we will introduce you to the concept of active seating, the different styles and designs that are out there plus some of the benefits. But first, what is active seating?
It sounds like a contradiction in terms, but it’s another fairly new concept which is already beginning to revolutionize the way we work. All forms of active seating encourage active or dynamic movement to improve balance, strength and circulation; it’s all about moving more.
According to Dr. James Levine, sitting is the new smoking in terms of the damage it’s doing to our health. We’re told we need to sit less and be more active, and there are some amazing products out there which can help us to achieve these goals. But there are times when we need to sit to carry out certain tasks.
So the answer? Unless you have health issues which dictate otherwise, the sensible thing to do is mix it up. Where possible, if you alternate between sitting, standing and gentle activity throughout the day you are likely to see improvements in both your physical and psychological health, as well as an increase in productivity. Add a little activity to your sitting time and you’ll be that much closer to optimal health at work.
Active vs Static Seating
Just to clarify, active seating is the opposite to static seating. An active chair or stool is designed to swivel, tilt, rock and / or lean – back and forth, from side to side or in a 360. As the “controller” of the seat, your job is to stay aboard as you fidget, change position, move, stretch, twist and turn. Now, this may sound a little crazy or even dangerous, but the thinking behind these unusual designs is really quite clever.
Typically, when you’re sat in front of your computer screen engrossed in the day’s activities, one, two or more hours could easily pass with you barely making any movement. When this happens, the abdominal muscles are out of action and are likely to weaken over time. This puts additional strain on the spine, joints and other muscles which are forced to work that much bit harder.
Blood and lymph circulation can become sluggish. This means you’ll be getting less oxygen to the brain and throughout the body. The grey matter doesn’t perform so well when this happens, and you may hit your early-afternoon slump even earlier than usual. More importantly, your body will also find it more difficult to get rid of toxins so your immune system will need to work even harder as well.
In addition, sitting in the same, restricted position for extended periods can put extra strain on the back, neck and shoulders. It’s really bad for your legs and can cause swelling or even varicose veins. It can also lead to tension, stress, low productivity, lack of motivation, general discomfort and much more.
By using active seating, you will be working your core, back and leg muscles. Working these muscles takes the pressure off of your joints and helps to keep the spine aligned. This is really good for posture. By taking the strain off, it can also reduce back ache, neck ache and tension which can lead to headaches and migraine.
You will also be improving your circulation which means more oxygen to the brain, better concentration, and increased energy levels. In fact, better circulation is good for the whole body and general health. In addition, using active seating can be a major contributor when it comes to preventing musculoskeletal injuries, along with some other really serious conditions and health risks.
Types of Active Seating
We’re just loving the diverse range of products that are out there right now. There are fidget stools, pivot chairs, perch chairs, locus seats. You will come across balance balls and ball chairs, the mogo seat, wobbly stools and kneeling chairs.
You will find fixed height or height adjustable seating to work with your sitting desk or to complement your standing desk. Generally these are suitable for users from under 5 feet tall up to around 6 feet 8 inches and most will support a weight of up to 300 pounds.
Some brands feature a range of different colours to brighten up any work space, or more muted tones to fit into the subtlest office surroundings.
Different features include anti-skid bases to keep you safe in your seat, super-lightweight and foldable models which can be easily moved around and stored in small spaces, waterfall edge and open-hip designs which are great for reducing pressure on the upper legs, butt and spine. Some come with an anti-fatigue mat to relieve stress on the feet and lower legs.
You can expect prices to start at around $100, but carry on upwards from there for features like extra padding, additional safety and eco-friendliness. We’re really excited about active seating and will be featuring a “best of” feature very soon…watch this space for a link to our top recommended products and editor’s picks.
The Active Seating Sum-Up
So, whether you have a traditional sitting desk or a sit-to-stand desk, active seating could work for you. There’s a whole range of colours, styles, functions and different features with new products coming out all the time. This is another growing office trend which looks like it’s here to stay – and for good reason.
The benefits of active seating include :
- Improved blood circulation – great for getting more oxygen to the brain…for focus, concentration and increased productivity.
- Improved lymph circulation – great for keeping the lymph system working…for getting rid of toxins plus other excretory functions and general good health.
- Working on those core muscles to take the pressure off the joints, the back and other muscles….reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.
- Helping to keep the spine aligned…to take the strain from your back, shoulders and neck..meaning fewer headaches, migraines and tension stress…plus many more to benefits to boot.
So if you’re keen to add a little something extra to your sitting time, remember to check out our feature article on active seating products which is coming soon.
Please also remember these key points to stay safe and healthy :
- Always check with your doctor or relevant medical practitioner if you have health issues or concerns. Some of the products we feature may not be suitable – if in doubt, check it out!
- Always start small and build up. Some products need a little getting used to before you can comfortably master them. Others may work muscles you never even knew you had! So as excited you may be with your new toy, be sensible and know when to take a rest or have a break.
As always, we would love to hear your comments or feedback…please post in the box below or contact jane@jetofficesolutions.com!
