Core Ball

• The core ball has many names---stability ball, exercise ball, Swiss ball, body ball, therapy ball, etc. It ranges in size from 45 to 75 cm and can be found in most gyms today.
  
  

Concept

• Proponents of the core ball for office use say it strengthens your abdominal and lower back muscles. Laura Helsel, owner of Riverdale Pilates in Toronto, claims that, unlike sitting in an office chair, sitting on a ball will force these muscles to work.
  
  

Opposing View

• An April 2005 article in "Ergonomics Today" reports that many experts now say the concept's effectiveness is exaggerated. Some even say it is dangerous. "Apart from the spinal risks already mentioned there are general health and safety risks to consider; the potential for injury if the user were to become so unbalanced as to fall off the ball is enormous, and I can only imagine the awkward questions that might be asked after such an event," says British ergonomics consultant John Ridd.
  
  

Ergonomic Chair

• It may be acceptable to use a core ball for short periods of time as an office chair. However, for prolonged sitting, your best bet is an ergonomic chair, according to Jeanie Croasmun, another consultant.
  
  

Conclusion

• Leave the core ball for use in fitness facilities and strengthen your core there instead of at the office.