[muglo] Re: Exercise ball as computer chair

I am 6'2" and a 65 cm ball is perfect for me. But who says you have to 
work at a 'standard' height desk? My desk is lower than standard but I 
have no problems accessing things. I adjust the pressure in the ball 
for my comfort and, as with any ergonomic exercise, make the machine 
fit the operator and the task. Not the other way around. This is a 
common flaw in all situations where the operator tries to use what 
someone has determined to be 'standard' for whatever percentile they 
choose. I have never met anyone who was really a size medium, yet I 
apparently am an XXL.

Ergonomics relate to the operator/ machine interface. Looking at just 
one aspect will not solve the problem. The advantage of the balls is 
that you are placed in an anatomically correct and neutral pelvic tilt. 
Your feet are firmly planted and balanced as is the rest of your mass 
within the proper structure of your body. You are using the most 
powerful and fatigue resistant postural muscles to maintain position 
without letting the chair determine what muscles and structures you use.

BUT...

everyone and every situation is different so my solution may not work 
for you. OR, it may if you make all of the appropriate changes.

A question...how come farmers running oxen or draft horses to plow 
their fields never suffered from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? FYI, if ANY 
medical condition ends in the word 'syndrome' this means it is the 
result of a differential diagnosis. They know what it is not, not what 
it is.

Cheers.

On Saturday, Aug 14, 2004, at 16:16 Canada/Eastern, Leith Peterson 
wrote:

> I was interested in Michael Stilwell's post about using an exercise
> ball as a computer chair, but am a bit confused about how it can be
> used as such.  I enquired at a couple of fitness stores.  The largest
> they sold was 75 cm, which they recommended for my height (5'6").
> However, when I brought one home and sat on it, it wasn't big enough
> for me to use comfortably as a chair, so I returned it.  One store
> had a really huge one, but it was far too large to use as a chair.
>
> Stilwell is suggesting a ball that is as tall as the back of one's
> knees, but I think any ball of that height wouldn't be high enough to
> be a chair.
>
> So, could you pls advise?  Also, recommending a store that might sell
> such a ball?  Thanks.
>
> At 7:17 AM -0500 8/11/04, Michael J Stilwell wrote:
>> I have found the best chair is none at all.
>>
>> I and many others have switched to using the appropriate sized
>> exercise/ therapy ball, one that is as tall as the back of your
>> knees. Put as much or little air as you want.
>>
>> When sitting on it you are put into a natural pelvic tilt that
>> reduces/eliminates lumbar spine pressure. Also the micro-movements
>> on the slightly unstable surface improve
>> circulation to your lower and actually whole body. This reduces
>> fatigue and improves concentration.
>>
>> The best part is that these balls are only a few $$ and you can
>> multi-task with them. There are a lot of very good exercises you can
>> do on and with them. This includes the subtle
>> workout your abdominals get from sitting on them. You can find these
>> balls at several retailers now.
>>
>> Hope this helps?
>>
>> Besides, if you do not like it as a chair you have only invested a
>> few $$ and now have an exercise device in your home you may use,
>> either that or a really durable beach ball
>> (most are rated to hold 700# (317 kg)
>>
>>
> At 8:03 AM -0500 8/11/04, Michael J Stilwell wrote:
>> I use my 65 cm ball daily at my desk and if my back is really
>> hurting at the kitchen table or
>> reading.
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