After installing the Variable Kneeling Chair (which took less than 15 minutes), I used it for work, answering emails and Slack messages. FYI: The chair is fairly compact at 20 inches tall, 28 inches long, and 19 inches wide, but the seat height isn’t adjustable, so you’ll want to measure your desk before ordering.
When I sit down, I notice that my core immediately activates due to the slight tilt of the seat. It doesn't feel like a hardcore plank workout – just a slight tension that reminds me of sitting on a gym ball. I also notice that my hips and knees feel nice and relaxed when I sit in the chair. Because my weight is more evenly distributed, there is a feeling of lightness that I never experienced when working at my desk.
At the same time, since this pose requires some balance to hold, it feels almost like a regular yoga pose all day long. I also like that I can gently rock the chair as the clock ticks down—a great feature for those who like to fidget throughout the day.
Over the weeks I’ve been sitting on the Variable Kneeling Chair, I’ve alternated between kneeling, placing both feet on the knee pads, and sitting on the seat with my feet on the floor. Without a doubt, all three positions cause me less pain than my old school chair. I’ve also noticed that my hips don’t feel as tight when I go outside or stretch after work.
Another bonus? How easy it is to move this chair. As someone who shares a small home office space with my partner, I often have to move to our dining room table or countertop when I need more space. Now I always take my kneeling chair with me—I’ll never go back to it.
Summary
Priced at $349, Variable kneeling chair Definitely more expensive than the average office chair. However, those with knee, back, or hip pain (like me!) will find it a worthwhile investment. If we’re going to spend eight hours at a desk every day, why not sit on something that doesn’t cause us debilitating discomfort outside of work hours, right?
Anyone with similar lower body tightness can benefit from alternating between a kneeling chair and a regular chair at first. This way, you can gradually get used to this new way of sitting. Personally, I will kneel on my chair until it falls apart, and even then I can just glue it back together and continue answering my emails.
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