When I worked in an office, I was that girl who pushed her swivel chair away in favor of sitting on an exercise ball. To be honest, I don't know that I noticed a huge difference, but I actually found it to be really comfy and kind of fun. The only problem was when I'd get up from my desk -- it would roll away and get in the way, which is totally embarrassing if you're talking to a customer. Trust me.

Gaiam has come up with a solution -- the BalanceBall Chair, which, according to their website, "combines exercise and fitness with comfort and ergonomic support for an affordable price." At $99, it is pretty affordable, especially when you consider the fact that you'll get use out of it every day at work!

But how does it improve your fitness level? Well, for one thing, just sitting on a ball, rather than a flat seat, engages your core. Holding yourself straight requires all of the muscles through your core to remain active, whereas with a comfy seat, you might be inclined to slouch down. But that's not all.

Source

Each week, Deanna will share her goals, challenges, successes and tips on how to fit in fitness when caring for a rambunctious toddler.

This week, I am coming to grips with the fact that I've already enjoyed the season's last jacket-free spin on the trail around our local park with my daughter in the jogging stroller. I don't completely retreat to indoor activities when the cold comes, but when you've got a toddler, sometimes it's just easier.

So, this week I've been taking advantage of the child care at my local gym and enjoying the view outside the windows in front of the stationary bikes. My favorite indoor workout, however, is core training exercises on a balance ball, otherwise known as a birth ball (so you can finally put that thing to use again!). It also makes for a great toddler toy, so make sure you have an extra one for your kid if you don't want them stealing yours during a workout. My gym has a fabulous core training instructor and I love her class, but it's easy to learn the moves for a home workout while your little one keeps busy with that extra ball if you aren't lucky enough to have the child care option.

Core training is mainly geared toward strengthens muscles in the back and abdominals, but the workout often extends to the glutes and thighs. It can help strengthen weak muscles that can lead to back pain, tighten flabby bellies and thighs and improve balance and coordination. In other words, it's perfect for moms! So, grab a ball - or two - and get going!

Source