Why Flexibility Is Key: The Rise of Active Seating in Modern Workplaces

Why Flexibility Is Key: The Rise of Active Seating in Modern Workplaces
October 11, 2023
Why Flexibility Is Key: The Rise of Active Seating in Modern Workplaces

For decades, workplace seating has been studied. What type of seating provides the greatest comfort? How can we reduce the long-term health detriments that come from spending all day sitting, or all day standing? These are important questions to address for on-site, hybrid, and remote workers, who all must operate in a healthy working environment to achieve the greatest health and personal productivity.

There have been many solutions explored, from ergonomic chairs to standing desks. Right in the center is active seating. Active seating provides the best of both worlds by addressing both fatigue and circulatory health in seating design. When putting together a business or at-home workplace, active seating is a valuable strategy.  


What Is Active Seating?

Active seating refers to a chair design that engages your muscle groups while alleviating the pressure on your feet. These chairs often resemble stools or wide, comfortable bicycle seats. They promote a perched sitting posture for professionals, helping them maintain balance and healthy circulation during work, without the necessity of standing all day. This reduces the long-term strain on the feet and knees.


Benefits of Active Seating in the Workplace

●     Comfortable and Dynamic

●     Increased Alertness and Focus

●     Improved Circulation

●     Core Muscle Activation

●     Reduced Impact on Feet and Knees

Long periods spent seated lead to cardiovascular health problems. Active chairs and perch stools keep a professional alert and focused. They are comfortable but also promote circulation and core muscle activity while avoiding the high-impact downsides of long-term standing.


What to Look For in Workplace Active Seating

Active seating options encompass a range of choices, such as ergonomic padded stools, saddle seats, stools with flat or angled bases, height-adjustable models, seats with built-in bounce mechanisms, or even combinations of these various features. Each design provides distinct forms of support, allowing users to engage in movements like wobbling, rocking, leaning, semi-standing, shifting, or balancing as they work.

Having a variety of options is advantageous for workplaces, as it empowers employees to select the most suitable option for their needs, whether they are working from home or on-site. With a plethora of features, you can experiment with various seating designs to find your perfect active seat. Read on to explore a few options and features to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking enhanced comfort, flexibility, or ergonomic support, the world of active seating has something for everyone.


Active Seating with a Flexible Base   

Stools featuring angled or flexible ring bases are expertly crafted to enhance posture and balance, promoting a dynamic and healthy work environment. They are particularly well-suited for individuals who frequently move within their workspace or continually shift positions. Such stools offer a subtle tilt, facilitating effortless access and a gentle rocking motion that helps maintain alertness and concentration. These active perch stools challenge users to utilize their balancing skills, setting them apart from traditional stationary seating options.

Saddle seat perch stool. Saddle seat perch stool.
Twixt Saddle Seat Stool by Safco Products

Adjustable Height Active Seating 

Most people are not 'average height', so there is not a one-height-fits-all active seat. The beauty of an adjustable perch stool lies in its capacity to adapt, ensuring comfort and support for people of varying leg lengths.

This thoughtful consideration paves the way for a more inclusive, ergonomic experience that truly caters to everyone's needs, making the daily grind a little more pleasant for all.

Adjustable height sit to stand stool. Adjustable height sit to stand stool.
Office PLUS Sit-Stand by Kore Design

Active Seating for Increased Energy and Focus

Perch stools with bounce and pivot features allow users to move freely, promoting better posture and reducing the strain on their backs. With a gentle bounce and a swiveling seat, perch stools adapt to your subtle movements, keeping you engaged and energized.

Whether you're at a standing desk or a traditional one, these stools enhance productivity and minimize discomfort. 

Adjustable office bounce stool. Adjustable office bounce stool.
Oingo Adjustable Stool by Paragon

Discover Active Seating for Your Workplace Design

Visit our online store to explore a wide range of active seating options tailored to suit your workplace requirements. Whether you're operating in a work-from-home setup, a hybrid environment, or at a traditional office location, Worthington Direct is here to assist you in locating the ideal office seating solutions.

Don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalized guidance – we're just a phone call away, ready to provide you with the support you need.

Perch stool.Perch stool.
Elate Perch Stool by Mooreco

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