In 1963, Italian toymaker Aquilino Cosani created the exercise ball, or "Swiss ball" as it was called then, as a colorful air-filled toy for children to play with. In the early 1980s, the exercise ball was sold to physical therapists and hospitals for purposes of patient rehabilitation. Today, exercise balls are still widely used throughout Europe for physical rehabilitation and physical fitness. In addition, many businesses and schools are seriously considering turning their chairs in for the ball. In fact, studies have shown that simply sitting on the ball enhances children's and employees' performances as well as concentration, posture, and organization.