BALANCE STOOL FOR ACTIVE SITTING
FROM 199,-
Quick answer: which balance stool should you choose?
For most workplaces the Balergo Classic is the starting point: a tilting saddle on a fixed five-point base. Prefer a softer seat? Choose the Classic with Comfort seat. Looking for extra movement? The Dynamic has a moving base that puts your legs to work as well. For children there is the Junior. Taller than 1.80 metres? Choose the version with the XL gas spring.
When do you choose a balance stool?
You choose a balance stool when long periods of sitting start to take their toll: a slumping posture, a stiff back or fading concentration. A balance stool keeps you moving while you simply carry on working. The moving seat activates your leg and back muscles. In the first few days you will genuinely feel those muscles working; that is normal and wears off by itself.
Use the balance stool to alternate with your office chair: the advice is a maximum of two hours at a time, because active sitting is real work for your muscles.
Balance stool, wobble stool or saddle stool?
In practice the terms are used interchangeably; this is how we distinguish them.
Balance stool
A saddle-shaped seat that tilts by itself, on a fixed base (Classic) or a moving base (Dynamic). The movement is in the seat, so your torso is constantly balancing lightly.
Wobble stool
On a wobble stool the whole stool moves on a convex or sprung base. A similar principle in a different design; well-known examples are the Swopper and the Muvman.
Saddle stool
A saddle stool has a fixed saddle without tilt. You sit higher and more open, which is pleasant for work where you frequently get on and off the stool.
Which complaints can a balance stool help with?
A balance stool can help reduce complaints caused by sitting still for long periods: a stiff lower back, a slumping posture or that rusted-shut feeling when you stand up at the end of the day. The tilting saddle keeps your torso lightly moving, so you never sit in exactly the same position for hours.
A balance stool is an aid, not a treatment. If you have existing complaints, discuss with your practitioner which seating solution suits you. If you mainly sit too low or too statically, also consider a sit-stand desk or an ergonomic office chair as a fixed base alongside the stool.
What should you look for when choosing?
Seat height and body height
The standard gas spring adjusts from 49 to 67 cm and suits a body height of 1.50 to 1.80 metres. Taller? Choose the XL gas spring with a seat height of 55 to 79 cm.
Fixed or moving base
The Classic stands on a fixed five-point base with glides (48 cm diameter). The Dynamic has a base that moves close to the floor, which also stimulates larger leg movements.
Upholstery
The Concorde fabric (polyester-nylon, Martindale 40,000) has a pilot-leather look; the PVC artificial leather is 1.2 mm thick. Both are made for daily use at home and at the office.
Who is it for
For children there is the Junior balance stool, with a lower entry point in both price and size.
Tips for use
- Place your feet beneath you, in a position similar to cycling or horse riding. That way you get the most out of the tilt.
- Alternate: sit on the balance stool for a maximum of two hours at a time, then switch to your office chair or a standing break.
- Choose the gas spring that matches your height: standard up to 1.80 metres, the XL version above that.
- Allow 10 to 15 minutes for assembly; no tools required.
- See the stretching and balance exercises for the stool on the Balergo brand page.
Frequently asked questions about balance stools
- Is a balance stool suitable for the office?
Yes. The standard seat height of 49 to 67 cm suits a regular desk, and with the XL gas spring you can also work at a higher desk or partly standing. Choose fabric or artificial leather; both are made for daily use.
- Who is a balance stool suitable for?
For anyone who sits a lot and wants more movement in the working day: office workers and people working from home, but also children, because for them there is the Junior balance stool. The standard version suits a body height of 1.50 to 1.80 metres; if you are taller, there is the XL gas spring.
- What is the difference between a balance stool and a wobble stool?
On a balance stool the seat itself tilts; on a wobble stool the whole stool moves on a convex or sprung base. The goal is the same: active sitting. Which one feels better is personal; the 30-day trial period lets you find out at your own pace.
- Can I sit on a balance stool all day?
Preferably not. The advice is a maximum of two hours at a time. Active sitting works your muscles, and the seat is deliberately on the firm side. Use the balance stool to alternate with your office chair.
- Does a balance stool help with back complaints?
That depends on the cause. A balance stool encourages an active, upright posture and can help reduce complaints that arise from sitting still for long periods. If you have existing back complaints, discuss with your practitioner which seating solution suits you.