Although most people associate exercise balls with ab workouts and Pilates classes, they’re increasingly being used in another sphere: as a healthy alternative to desk chairs. Often referred to as ball seats or active seats when used for this purpose, these ergonomic chairs keep you moving and strengthen your core, decreasing your risk of developing back pain.
The Bloon is a ball seat created by a physical therapist specializing in posture and movement. His goal was to create a product that would be better for sitting than your average exercise ball—improving back health, strengthening muscles, and perfecting your posture at work and at home. Just a few weeks of using a Bloon are enough to reap its many benefits and start feeling better in your body.
The Bloon offers a perfect way to work comfortably while still protecting your back. But with so many options out there, how do you know you’re choosing the right ball seat for you? We’ve broken down everything you need to know about choosing a ball seat in our guide below.
What Is a Ball Seat?
A ball seat is a kind of ergonomic chair. At its core, it’s a large, inflatable ball, typically over 20 inches in diameter. While these kinds of balls were originally used for exercise, they’re now becoming popular as a healthy alternative to traditional desk chairs.
Unlike a regular chair, a ball seat has no backrest. Because of this, sitting on one requires actively engaging your core muscles to maintain your posture and balance.
When used regularly, ball seats improve circulation, tone core muscles, and reduce stress on the spine.
When you sit on a Bloon, your body naturally adopts a dynamic posture—meaning that your muscles activate to maintain your balance, strengthening your core.
Choosing a Ball Seat Based on Your Height
Ball seats come in different sizes, and the size of each individual ball can also be slightly adjusted by inflating or deflating them. Making sure that your ball is correctly sized is key to getting the maximum comfort and health benefits out of your it.
When you sit in the center of your ball with your back straight, your feet should be flat on the floor, and your hips should be slightly higher than your knees. The ball should feel both comfortable and stable. The Bloon features a patented weighted base that keeps it from rolling, ensuring that it’s both safe and easy to use.
Bloon Sizing Guide
- Regular (Size 1): Ideal for people between 4’11” and 5’10” (150-179 cm). Designed for desks 27.5-30 inches high (70-76 cm). Ball diameter: 21.6 inches (55 cm).
- XL (Size 2): Perfect for people 5’11” (180 cm) and over. Designed for desks 30-31.5 inches high (76-80 cm). Ball diameter: 25.6 inches (65 cm).
- Kids (Size 3): Designed for children 3’7” to 4’7” (110-140 cm), ages 7-12. Ball diameter: 17.7 inches (45 cm), with an adjustable seat height of 13.7-17.7 inches (35-45 cm).
If you’re still unsure about which size is right for you, we recommend choosing a larger size—you can always adjust the firmness of your ball by changing the level of inflation.
Choosing a Ball Seat Based on Your Sitting Position
Your ball seat should be positioned so that your hips are slightly higher than your knees when you sit. This position puts your thighs at a slight downward angle, which keeps your back straight.
For optimum comfort, you can fine-tune your sitting height by adjusting the ball’s level of inflation.
Choosing a Sitting Ball Based on Your Desk’s Height
When you sit on your ball seat at your desk, your forearms should be able to rest comfortably on the desk’s surface.
Bloon ball seats are compatible with desks between 27.5 and 31.5 inches (70-80 cm) high.
Why Choose a Bloon Ball Seat?
The Bloon was specially designed by a physical therapist to tone core muscles and correct poor posture. It isn’t just an exercise ball—it’s a stylish, ergonomic seating solution.
The Bloon:
- Has a patented weighted base that keeps it from rolling
- Is burst-resistant and machine washable
- Is made from eco-friendly fabric
- Includes an easy inflation kit for quick setup (it takes just five minutes!)
Bloon Is More Than Just a Plastic Ball
Unlike your typical exercise ball, the Bloon ball seat was designed with beauty and comfort in mind. The brainchild of a French interior designer, the Bloon mixes functionality with elegance to create a seating solution that fits seamlessly into any space.
The Bloon’s fabric has a unique four-panel construction that makes it both flexible and long-lasting. Every Bloon is meticulously crafted, inspected, and certified for quality.
Additionally, Bloon’s fabrics are environmentally friendly. They’re made from high-quality, Oeko-Tex Standard 100-certified materials—meaning they’re free from any harmful substances.
Choosing Your Bloon Ball Seat by Design
Bloons come in a variety of styles, meaning there’s one for every kind of decor.
- Bloon Original: Ultra-durable woven fabric—perfect for everyday use.
- Bloon Curly: Extra-soft and cozy, ideal for a relaxing atmosphere.
- Bloon Elixir: Luxurious velvet that adds a stylish touch to any space.
No matter what your style is, there’s a Bloon that’s perfect for you!
