Take a look at the chair you're sitting in. Are you comfortable? Do you consider yourself happy with that seating arrangement? If you're tired of it, you can always try something else. I don't mean buying a new chair, but rather, sitting on an exercise ball.

Of course, if you feel the need to check with your doctor due to back pain or other issues, do so. But the desk chair can become a very unhealthy way to sit, especially for long-term uses. I've composed five basic reasons why you might want to consider kicking that chair to the side for a while, in favor of the ball.

1. It's Cheap. The first reason out the door, because money is on our minds. Exercise balls are very affordable, unlike a fancier officer chair; those can really set you back. The exercise ball tends to range from about $15-35 dollars, give or take. You can swing it.
2. It saves your posture. I'm sure you're well aware that part of a healthy, ergonomic workspace is the posture in which you sit. There is a certain way that everyone should sit for their health, but most of us do not. We tend to slouch and fold our legs in awkward positions. When you're sitting on an exercise ball, you'll find that it's somewhat vital to sit properly, straight up, in order to hold your balance. Granted, the ball won't force you to sit correctly, especially if you rest your elbows on the desk. But it can definitely help, particularly if you're willing to let it.
3. Lose weight. An exercise ball is just that, made for exercise. When you sit in a regular chair, you're getting no workout whatsoever. On a ball, you almost can't help but to shift positions frequently, or roll around in little circles. Adding a little bounce to your seat, several hours a day, has a way of adding up for your fitness.

4. It's comfortable. This, of course, is rather self-explanatory. Some may think just the opposite at first, but it really is comfortable to sit on one of these babies. It's squishy, and the proper posture really feels great on my back. You'll probably find yourself much less achy after a typical workday on the ball versus the chair.
5. It's more fun and less boring. The classic cheesy reason for anything, and yet, I wouldn't lie to you. It's more fun than sitting in the chair for hours on end. Something about working in front of the computer on a big, stretchy ball just seems like a blast compared to the alternative. It seems to make me feel more energetic, as well, only contributing to the good feeling I get while using the ball as a seat.

At first, I'd suggest starting gradually with the switch. Take an hour or two on the ball instead of the whole day, then build up. In no time, you'll have rendered the old chair useless. The whole time you use your new ball-chair, you'll be maintaining your physical fitness and strengthening your core. So rejoice, people! Happy sitting.