My Favorite Tool for a Pain-Free Workday (NOT a Standing Desk)

Ever tried a standing desk and thought, “This is supposed to be better… So why does my back still hurt?” You’re not alone. Standing desks are a great step up from sitting all day, but here’s the catch: standing still isn’t the solution. Just like sitting, it can lead to repetitive strain and muscle fatigue, especially if there’s not enough movement happening while you work.

I’ve been geeking out lately over alternative desk setups (yes, this is what I do for fun), and I think I finally found a tool that’s been a game changer for me. It’s called the MoveMate, and it’s basically a dynamic standing board, but way more versatile than the wobbly balance boards you might be picturing.

Let’s break this down.

So, what does it do?

Unlike typical balance boards that move as a single unit, this one allows independent movement of each foot. That means you can:

• Rock side to side
  

• Twist your hips
  

• Roll your feet from heel to toe
  

• And even do a little reverse “moonwalking” motion if you’re feeling spicy
  
  

All of that keeps your lower body engaged and your core activated, which is what we’re all about here at Core Balance Training. When your core is awake, your spine is supported. That’s huge for staying out of pain.

Real Human Movement

The standout feature? It mimics reciprocal motion, the way one foot moves opposite to the other, just like when you’re walking or crawling. That’s a natural, rhythmic pattern that your body knows well. It’s how we’re designed to move.

Compare that to standing on a Bosu ball, where both feet are doing the same thing. Not so natural. The MoveMate lets you move like you’re meant to move.

Better Than a Treadmill Desk?

I used to use a treadmill desk, and while it sounded great in theory, it was actually kind of stressful. You have to match the treadmill speed and make sure you’re not leaning on your desk (which, by the way, shuts your core off completely). I do still use my treadmill desk setup, but as variety is the spice of life, I like to mix it up.

With the MoveMate, I can keep my body moving without thinking about it. I just get into a rhythm, kind of like tapping your foot without realizing it, and my spine and core stay happy all day long.

Bonus: Foot Therapy

One of the coolest (and most unexpected) ways I’ve used this is as a little self-massage tool. I’ll press one foot down and use the opposite board to dig into the arch of my other foot. It’s like giving myself plantar fascia therapy while checking emails. Win-win.

A Few Pro Tips

• If you want to twist and rotate your lower body, make sure you’re on a hard surface. Carpet doesn’t play well with this thing, it’ll snag or drag.
  
  
• Don’t lean too much on your desk. Light contact is fine, but if you’re hanging your weight on it, your core shuts off. And we want that core on.
  
  
• Watch out for the “board drift.” It slowly walks across the floor as you use it, so you might need to nudge it back now and then.
  
  

What About Cost?

Yeah, it’s a little pricey. I won’t quote a number because that could change, but it’s definitely an investment. That said, it’s super well-made, plywood, steel cables, and an axle that feels rock-solid even under my weight. If budget is tight, check out something like the Bigfoot Balance Board. It’s more affordable and still lets you explore a lot of the same movement options.

But for me? The MoveMate has been worth it. As someone with a history of foot and back issues, it’s helping me tackle both at once while I work. That’s not easy to find.

Bottom Line

Movement is medicine. And when you’re stuck at a desk for hours, the right setup can make all the difference. If you’re battling stiffness, fatigue, or chronic pain, don’t just stand there. Add movement into your standing.

Your feet, hips, and spine will thank you. Check out our 7-day free trial of Core Balance Training here.

Let me know if you try it, I’d love to hear what works for you. And I’ll be back next week with more tips to help you stay out of the back pain cycle for good. 

Until then, get down on the floor and connect to your core.