Everyone knows that Americans are becoming more sedentary. Innovations in everything from dishwashers to computers have made our lives easier. However, we are now realizing that this increasing decline in physical activity is having very negative effects on our health. Using the ball as a chair in your home or office is a simple, yet effective, way to add some activity to your life, especially if you spend a lot of time at a computer!

Take a minute and, without moving, think about how you are sitting? Are you slumped back into a chair? Slumped sideways? How often are you in this position? Have you ever thought about what it might be doing to your back and your overall health?

Poor posture leads to uneven loading of disks in the spine and a compression of respiratory and digestive organs. Also, most chairs support your weight as you relax and, while this may be more comfortable, the support decreases the strength of the muscles that support your spine. This decrease in strength can lead to back pain or put you at risk for a back injury.

The FitBallŪ promotes "active sitting" because you cannot relax while seated on the ball. There are constant small adjustments in your back, hips, knees and ankles to keep you balanced on the ball. These small adjustments help circulation to the disks in your spine and can strengthen your back muscles. Also, gentle bouncing on the ball will encourage you to sit in the correct posture and will strengthen your postural muscles, and all you have to do is SIT!