Do you spend all day working in an office? Do you get back pain? Then a standing desk balance board could be the solution you’re looking for.
A lack of movement is bad for our health. This is a well-known fact. But for people that work at a computer, finding a way to get the body moving throughout the working day can be tricky.
If you’re already using a standing desk then you’re on the right track. Add a balance board and you can take your office set up to the next level.
Why? Because using a balance board means you have to activate your muscles to stay balanced. Especially in the core and lumbopelvic region (where the lower part of the spine meets the pelvic area).
These parts of the body don’t get the movement they need by sitting all day, or even standing. However, using a balance board switches them on and the micro-movements help to gently strengthen them.
Plus, it doesn’t require a gym and it’s a low impact way to exercise the body.
Sounds good? Let’s find out more.
How to use a balance board
First things first. What exactly is a balance board?
The clue is in the name. It’s an unstable platform that you stand on so you have to work to keep it balanced. The natural movement it promotes then strengthens the body and improves posture.
Here’s how it works:
- Choose the type of board you want: wobble (360-degree movement – recommended for standing desks) or rocker (from side to side)
- Stand on the board and get to work with keeping it balanced while getting on with your job
It’s as simple as that. Now, let’s take a look at five of the best balance boards on the market right now.
Related: Learn more about exercises you can do at your standing desk
Ergohead – Standing Desk Balance Board with Anti-Fatigue Massage Points
No products found.The Ergohead balance board is an ergonomically engineered board. It encourages the ankles to stand in a neutral position to get the maximum benefit of using a standing desk. As a result, it promises a fun and healthy way to work that’s safe and accessible for everyone.
This board also has anti-fatigue massage points to keep you going and avoid stiff joints from standing for too long. Plus, it has a fluid rocking motion for low-impact movement.
Want to know if this is the right board for you? Here’s the full overview:
- Honeycomb non-slip texture
- Can be used on hard floors and carpet
- Made with EPA certified materials
- 8.5-degree tilting angle
- Weight limit of 440lbs
- Dimension: 19.6 × 13.5 × 2.2 inches
- Portable gel handle
Gaiam Evolve – Rocker Style Balance Board
No products found.Described as a “must have for standing desks”, this balance board by Gaiam helps to keep the body active and the mind engaged. This is done by activating muscles in the back, core, legs and ankles and reducing the likelihood of fatigue.
The Gaiam Evolve is a rocker-style balance board to encourage fluid movement in the body and a neutral positioning of the ankles. It’s also made with non-slip material, so it’s safe for use in the office (both for hard and carpet floors).
Here are the full specs of the Gaiam Evolve:
- Honeycomb non-slip texture
- Ergonomic design
- Weight limit of 250lbs
- For use with any standing desk
- Dimensions: 27 x 12 x 3.65 inches
Matladin – Wobble Board with Wood Construction
No products found.The Matladin standing desk balance board is a blend of anti-fatigue techniques and balance training. This means the movement not only strengthens muscles but also stops the mind and body from getting tired during the day.
To achieve this, the Matladin model has texturized pressure points for the feet made from high-density latex. As well as a PU surface and wooden base to “last for years” and keep the user safe.
Here’s the full overview of the Matladin:
- Non-slip, anti-scratch natural rubber base
- Weight limit of 450lbs
- 8.5-degree tilting angle
- Dimensions: 20 x 13.9 x 2.2 inches
- Portable carry handle
Related: Learn how to perform these wobble board exercises to maximize the health benefits of one of these boards.
Nalanda – Wobble Board and Serious Core Trainer
No products found.If you’re looking for a more intense workout and a bigger tilt angle, then the balance board by Nalanda could be the one for you.
This is a wobble balance board with a 360-degree rotation and a 24.5-degree tilting angle. As a result, your muscles will work harder and your balancing skills will be challenged. All while getting paid to do your job.
Like the other models, this board has an anti-slip surface for safe balancing with massage pressure points for the feet.
The Nalanda balance board overview:
- Heavy-duty structure finished with TPE
- Weight limit of 660lbs
- Dual handle design for push-up exercises
- Dimensions: 16.34 x 16.34 x 3.9 inches
- Larger size than other models
Fitterfirst – Adjustable Wooden Board with Non-Marking Legs
No products found.For a flexible option, this standing desk balance board by Fitterfirst is worth considering.
Unlike the other models, it comes with fully adjustable foam legs so you can move gently or actively – whatever works for you. Plus, the legs are fitted with Velcro so they can be easily customized and won’t slip on the floor.
Another unique detail is the top platform, which is made from Canadian-sourced wood. This makes the Fitterfirst balance board a stylish addition to any office.
The full specs of the Fitterfirst are:
- Non-marking adjustable foam legs
- Dimensions: 24.5 x 12 x 3.25 inches
- Anti-fatigue design
- Rock from side-to-side or front-to-back
- Aimed at balance board beginners
Final thoughts
We all know that spending too much time sitting down is bad for us. It can cause back pain, lead to weakened muscles and even a higher risk of cardiovascular illnesses.
Humans are not supposed to live sedentary lifestyles and introducing movement is a great way to counteract the negative impacts of office work.
A standing desk balance board is more than just a way to get the body moving though. It’s also useful for keeping the mind active and reducing fatigue throughout the day.
All of the balance boards in this article are good options. However, for beginners we recommend the Fitterfirst board for the adjustable functionality. But for more advanced balanced board users, the Nalanda model could be the way to go.
There is just one prerequisite. You need a standing desk. If you don’t already have one, find out more about how to transform your workspace with our guide to standing desk converters.
