Task Chair Alternatives
While a normal task chair is generally the best pick for people who are in search of performance seating and back support, it is not the only option. Just as the number of chairs available has grown, so has the number of non-standard options. These are alternatives to the normal task chair- they may not be right for everyone, but some people have come to rely on them.
It should be noted that many task chair alternatives some of which have come into existance out of necessities, because of certain injuries and conditions that people may have. The most popular reason to use a task chair alternative is a back injury, but you don't need a reason to investigate- these can be the seat of preference for anyone.
1. Exercise Ball - Also known as a Swedish ball this is an inflatable rubber sphere, just like the ones at your gym. Some people think these are great, other people have good evidence that they are not good for you (mainly because they lack back support). An alternative method of this is to use an exercise ball seat cushion.
Why - The instability of the ball means your back muscles are in constant motion which strengthens the back, promotes good posture, and improves circulation. Also, it's very inexpensive.
2. Swopper - We have written about the Swopper before. It looks like a pogostick, is based on a large spring, and it can tilt in any direction.
Why - It's supposedly good for your back. This operates on the same ideas as an exercise ball, but costs about twenty times as much.
3. Kneeling chair - Rather then sit as your normally would, these rely on you sitting forward, with your weight on your knees. There is generally no back support, but the position should not require one.
Why- By sitting forward, on your knees, you posture should be improved because your back has no choice but to be up straight. This can put a lot of pressure on your knees if the angles is too steep though so it should be adjustable, or at least the right angle for you.
4. Zero-gravity chair - This is a chair that fully reclines so you are almost lying down. This position is more for relaxing and stretching out, but if your work chair can do it, it's a good way to change positions. The Stokke Balans (now called the Varier Gravity) is the most famous offering here.
Why- The zero-gravity position places no pressure on the back, so it's great for relaxing, reading, stretching, or resting tired muscles. It looks like you are lying down, but it's a lot more than that.
5. Executive Chairs- The term "executive chair" is generally reserved for chairs that are larger, flashier, and plusher than the standard versions. There are no official specifications for an executive chair, but they generally have more padding and they tend to have headrests (to make them taller). Eames Aluminum Group is known for it's executive chair, which is taller and has extra padding compared to the standard version.
Why- They look cool, they're plush, and they are great status symbols.
Alternative seating may have come about for people with special needs, but it can be good for anyone. There is nothing wrong with changing your seating situation every now and then (or using different seats at different workstations) so long as all the chairs fit you properly and provide the support you need.