Thinking about snagging a wobble chair? Here’s why it can be a smart move for anyone who sits a lot, whether you’re grinding away at your desk or chilling at home.
If you read our article on conquering desk work, you know why we like the Wobble Chair. If not, first let me say why I personally tried a wobble chair. The cozy high-back office chair sounds great – but it doesn’t help me get things done!
For me it was about managing my attention, mental clarity and focus. Wobble chairs were developed to help kids manage ADHD symptoms while in the classroom. And now some great companies have caught on to the fact that we adults can benefit from a boost in focus and energy levels while working at a desk too!
What’s a Wobble Chair?
They’re chairs designed to promote active sitting. Thanks to their specialized bases, you can tilt and swivel, keeping your muscles engaged and your posture on point. They come in various sizes and styles, some even with backrests for extra support.
Who Should Consider One?
Anyone who sits a lot can benefit. They’re especially great for people who need to stay at a desk and stay alert, like students or office workers, and can be a real game changer for anyone dealing with ADHD or just general restlessness.
Why Wobble Chairs Are Worth a Look
Stay Sharp: This was my motivating factor for trying a Wobble chair. They help keep your brain engaged. Thanks to the constant micro-movements, you’re likely to find your concentration and focus levels getting a boost. Especially great for students or anyone who finds themselves a bit fidgety after hours of sitting.
Boost Your Posture: Ever catch yourself slouching in a regular chair? Wobble chairs are the fix. They make you move a bit to keep your balance, which means you’re always subtly shifting and improving your posture. Plus, they’re great for your back, nudging you to sit upright and engage those core muscles, which helps support your spine naturally.
Core Strength Gains: Sitting on a wobble chair is a mini workout. Because the base is unstable, you have to use your abs and core muscles to stay balanced. Stronger core, better balance, and posture—it’s a win-win!
Get That Blood Flowing: Traditional chairs can mess lead to lethargic feelings over time or drowsiness. Let’s call it a symptom of being too comfortable and cozy while trying to work or get something done. Wobble chairs encourage you to move, keeping the blood flowing and and the mind engaged, reducing the risk of drowsiness and boredom that can come with working on desk projects.
Are there any downsides?
I have found that they take a little getting used to. If you try it, give it time. Going from your high back lounger with to a wobble chair may feel like a step back in comfort at first.
I’ve also found it helpful to alternate, especially when I first started out. Extended time in the Wobble made me get a little tired physically, not mentally, as my body just wasn’t used to supporting my posture. Over a couple weeks I noticed it was easier, and my back and core got stronger – an awesome benefit! At first, I found it helpful to set a timer to remind me to switch before I got tired, then switch back to the Wobble before I got too lazy again.
Shopping for the Right Wobble Chair
Vari Active Seat - Adjustable Standing Desk Chair - Ergonomic Wobble Office Desk Stool w/Dynamic Range of Motion - Encourage Good Posture - Portable Stools & Fully Assembled - Active Chairs for Ad...
This Wobble Chair from the makers of Varidesk is heigh adjustable and meets our requirements
Material Matters: Look for something durable. Cheap materials might save you some cash now, but a well-made wobble chair can last you years, and feel better too.
Make It Fit: Adjustable chairs are the way to go. Everyone’s different, and being able to tweak the height or tilt means you’ll find your perfect sitting position no sweat.
Check the Weight Limit: Make sure the chair can handle your weight for safety and comfort. It’s a practical step to ensure your chair isn’t just comfortable but also safe.
Stability is Key: You want a wobble chair that moves but doesn’t feel like it’s going to tip over. A stable base makes all the difference in getting the health benefits without any spills.
Pricing: You don’t have to break the bank, but consider that you might get more comfort and longevity from a slightly pricier option. I started with a Wobble ‘Cushion’, these are sometimes used for fitness routines, but when placed on your traditional chair can be used to achieve a similar effect at a very low cost.
Warranty Wise: A good warranty can save you headaches down the road. It’s not just about covering damages or defects; it’s peace of mind that you’re buying quality.
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The Takeaway
Wobble chairs are more than just a seating option; they’re a way to add a bit of health and focus to your daily sit-down routine. Whether you’re decking out your home desk space or office, these are an option to try.
