The Plane by FluidStance offers many of the same features and benefits as the Level but in a slightly smaller, eco-friendly package. This article will describe some of the features and benefits of wobble boards (also known as balance boards), as well as the specifics of the FluidStance Plane. Read on for our review.
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What is a Wobble Board?
A wobble board (otherwise known as a balance board) is a small platform with a rounded base that allows the board to pivot. The base also provides a small amount of side to side and front to back motion for the user. Originally developed as a fitness and physical therapy tool, it has become the new must-have accessory for your standing desk.
It’s also a great alternative to an anti-fatigue mat as it allows for more active standing.
Reasons to Use a Wobble Board at your Standing Desk
There are a number of unique health benefits when it comes to adding a wobble board to your standing desk. Here are a few to keep in mind:
Improved Balance
Standing on a wobble board activates many stabilizer muscles in your spine, core, and legs, as well as your knees and ankles. Using one can strengthen the joints of your lower body and contributes to improved balance. Learn why balance is important.
Improved Posture
The constant slight corrections needed to maintain your balance while standing evenly on a wobble board can improve your spinal alignment and increase blood flow to your lower extremities. This combination of benefits can contribute to better posture over time.
Increased Activity Level and Calorie Burn
Maintaining your standing position on a balance board requires constant small corrections by your body’s small stabilizer muscles. This constant motion causes a slight increase in your heart rate, which in turn burns more calories than simply sitting or standing.
FluidStance The Plane Balance Board Review
Specs
- Deck size: 24” x 12” x 2.5”
- Construction: 100% recycled materials – high-molecular HDPE plastic base with recycled rubber deck
- Weight limit is 200 pounds.
- Made in the USA – designed and built in California
The Details
Standing on a balance board takes some getting used to, but after about 10 minutes of practice, it should feel natural. The rounded base provided a small degree of motion (1-2 inches) in all directions. The effect is subtle. It provides 360 degrees of motion, but you always feel in control. Since it is meant to be used while working at your standing desk, not to provide a gym quality core workout, the minimal motion is actually a good thing.
Using the board feels like just the right amount of movement and keeps your muscles actively engaged, but does not interfere with typing or other work at your desk. Due to the fun factor, I actually found myself standing more throughout the day. The ability to constantly move prevents minor aches and pains from standing in one place for a long time.
The Plane works well on either carpet or hardwood surfaces. On the carpet, there is a little more resistance to spinning. If you have hardwood floors, a thin mat is recommended to protect the wood. The board itself does not scratch the wood, but if there is dirt on the surface, it might cause problems.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sleek Design
- Top quality
- Easy to learn
- Fun to use
- Potential health benefits
Cons
- Price
Final Thoughts
The FluidStance Plane balance board is a great addition to your standing desk. It’s one of those accessories that you didn’t know you needed but will be glad you got. It has a great design and build quality. It provides just enough movement to keep you energized throughout the day and helps you reap the full benefits of having a standing desk at your office.
Check out the FluidStance Planeon AmazonDon’t have a standing desk yet? Check out our roundup.