Looking to get more movement in your day? If you’re someone who has a sedentary job, you may struggle feeling like despite your best effort, you can’t get enough movement into your day to counteract the time you spend sitting. Which leads to wondering about the best under desk treadmills!
Working from home it’s far to easy to move less and we know that our movement throughout the day matters more for our weight than just those few minutes in the gym.
Maybe you already have a standing desk with a balance board or you sit on a stability ball. Those are great ways to change things up and engage muscles while working. But maybe you’re looking to take your efforts to the next level and tackle your step count goals without reducing your productivity.
If so, an under desk treadmill may be just what you’re looking for! As with everything thing there are pro’s and con’s, so let’s talk about them. I’ve tried it with mixed results, so let’s see if it’s right for you.
I’ve also compiled my top six favorite under-desk treadmills. But before we get to that let’s learn more about the benefits of an under-desk treadmill and what factors to consider when making your selection.
Benefits of Under-Desk Treadmills
As I mentioned, if you work in a traditionally sedentary job, a treadmill desk can dramatically impact your routine.
While you don’t need to walk all day to reap the benefits, getting out of your chair for a bit of time each day can have positive impacts to your health and fitness. This was made truly apparent in a few recent social media posts where folks talked about walking a marathon during their work day.
Too much time being sedentary has proven to have negative impacts on our health, including weight gain, depression, increased risk of cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular health issues, just to name a few.
Walking is an easy way for both active and inactive people to see better health outcomes and weight loss. A recent study has shown that what’s most important is the number of steps, not necessarily the intensity of those steps.
So while it’s nice to go out and get a run in, walking is truly a great option. Being able to get those steps in without having to leave your office would be a welcome alternative for those who are consistently trapped at their desk.
An added bonus is studies have shown there is little change in cognitive performance when comparing those sitting at a desk versus those walking at a desk. While there is a slight drop, it’s not enough to outweigh the overwhelming benefits of walking while working.
Personally this is something I’ve noticed in using a standing desk. At times, I have more trouble concentrating on my creative thinking when using the standing desk or walking. I have no idea why this is exactly, but it’s noticeable.
Meanwhile, I can respond to emails and do a lot of the other busy tasks with no issue while moving.
What to Look for in an Under-Desk Treadmill
Alright, so you’ve decided to take the plunge but what should you focus on when doing your research for the best treadmills to use when working? Here are some of the things I recommend considering in your search.
Noise Levels
You know how some treadmills can be pretty noisy? Well that’s the last thing you want when considering one for use during work or in an apartment, especially if you take calls or have meetings while using it.
Most under-desk treadmills are generally going to be quieter as they have smaller motors and because they’re designed to be quiet. But, it’s a good idea to check decibel level and read reviews to know if it’s going to be a good fit.
Power and Speed
Unlike many of their larger counterparts, under-desk treadmills are often designed purely for walking. As a result, the motors are smaller and have lower horsepower, which means they may have a lower range of speeds.
When looking at the speed range, it’s important to remember you also won’t be walking nearly as fast while working as you would be if you were just walking on the ground or on a treadmill focusing fully on that activity. Because you’ll be walking while working, slower speeds are a safer bet.
Size and Portability
Another factor to consider is the size and portability of your treadmill.
First, consider your height and gait. Taller people may need a treadmill with a longer belt. Someone with a wider gait may need a wider belt. Also keep in mind, you need this to fit under a desk of some sort.
Next, consider where you want to keep it when not in use. You probably won’t stand and walk all the time so depending on your set up, you may need to be able to move your treadmill out of the way or have a separate desk for sitting and space to leave your treadmill set up out.
If you plan to store it when not in use, pay attention to storage height. Will it fit under a bed or the couch? You’ll also want to note the width of the entire treadmill versus just the belt.
Finally, consider how much it weighs. While most treadmills come with wheels, it still needs to be light enough to move.
Weight Capacity
In looking through my recommendations and the many others on the market, 220 lbs seems to be the standard weight capacity for under-desk treadmills. However, if that is not high enough, rest assured there are some on the market with higher capacities.
Cost and Warranty
One of the great aspects about under-desk treadmills is you can find one to fit just about every budget.
In my recommendations, you’ll notice I have included treadmills covering a wide range of prices. Believe me though, there are some that are even more expensive than the most expensive one on my list so if that’s what you want, I can assure you there are some out there that are several thousands of dollars.
If a warranty is included or you’re purchasing one in addition to the product cost, pay attention to what it covers. Some only cover certain parts or may only last a certain length of time. Know what you’re paying for.
Standing Desk Set Up
As I mentioned earlier, you need to consider your setup. If you plan to use the treadmill under your traditional desk, you’ll need to invest in a standing desk topper of some kind to allow you to stand up and use your treadmill but also let you sit down with your regular chair.
If you have the space and plan to leave your treadmill out, you’ll want a desk made for a treadmill. These are usually adjustable in height and the supporting legs stand on either side of the treadmill.
Top 6 Best Under-Desk Treadmills
Now to my treadmill recs! I opted not to categorize these, but arranged them from lowest priced to highest and focused on their features, both those that are consistent across the board and those that are unique to each.
You’ll notice that unlike a standard treadmill, a walking treadmill doesn’t have a huge console with buttons or a huge platform for shock-absorbing. They are generally designed to be smaller, possibly less sturdy and not maximum speeds of 12MPH.
You may find some of our best treadmills under $1000 as an option if you want to use it for more than work.
I hope this list will help you in your search and potential purchase!
1. Sunny Health and Fitness SLIM Under Desk Treadmill – $369 (Best Budget Option)
The Sunny Health and Fitness Slim Walkstation is just that…slim! It’s also on the affordable end of the spectrum at only $369, plus they ALWAYS have discounts on their site.
This is similar to a few units I tested previously and even as a tall person, I found the size just fine because well I’m not working out, I’m meandering as I type.
I like the wheels on the front to more easily maneuver it if you don’t want to leave it in place under your desk all the time.
The lightweight unit comes with a remote control to adjust speed and has a large digital display showing you time, speed, calories, steps and distance. Its speed range goes from 0.5-3.75 mph. The treadmill has an emergency stop clip, shock absorption, power saving technology and wheels for easy moving.
- Dimensions (entire treadmill): 50”L x 21.5”W x 6.5”H
- Dimensions (walking area): 39”L x 14”W
- Weight Capacity: 220 lb
- Speed Range: 0.5-3.75 mph
- Machine Weight: 55.1 lb
- Incline: Fixed
- Warranty: 3 year (structural frame), 180 days (parts and components)
2. Goplus 2-in-1 Superfit Treadmill – $359 (Potentially for workouts too)
One of the perks about this treadmill, besides the lower price point, is it has two modes: one for a jog and one for walking.
In theory, if you want a single treadmill option for both work and workouts this could be an option. I would say only an option if you are running above a 10 minute mile or a good option if you’re doing run, walk. Otherwise I’d look for more stability with one of the at home treadmills for running.
Again that’s based on my testing a ton of treadmills and looking at what you need for a long lasting workout treadmill.
It boasts a foldable handrail, which allows access to the full range of speeds, bluetooth speaker connectivity, LED display showing your metrics, and a remote control. It’s rated at less than 60 decibels and has a 2.25 horsepower motor. Because of the option to run, this is a bit heavier to move around.
Another added bonus: it comes in multiple color schemes. While that doesn’t really impact functionality, it is fun!
- Dimensions (entire treadmill): 63”L x 28”W x 7”H
- Dimensions (walking area): 47”L x 18”W
- Weight Capacity: 220 lb
- Speed Range: 0.5-3.7 mph
- Machine Weight: 69.5 lb
- Incline: Fixed
- Warranty: 3 months
3. Rhythm Fun Treadmill – $499 (Wide Belt Option)
One of the main reasons I wanted to include this treadmill was because it has a wider running belt. The belt is nearly 18” wide, which is at least 2” wider than the running deck found on others on this list.
So if you don’t need that, you can definitely go with a cheaper option from the same company. One of the nice things I found with the wide belt is simply that if you move some while working you aren’t going to step off the belt as much.
The treadmill has a large front display with speed, time, distance, and calories burned and comes with a remote control. Plus, it also has an app where you can utilize additional features and keep track of your walks.
- Dimensions (entire treadmill): 49”L x 27”W x 5”H
- Dimensions (walking area): 40”L x 16”W
- Weight Capacity: 265 lb
- Speed Range: 0.5-3.7 mph
- Machine Weight: 78 lb
- Incline: Fixed
- Warranty: Yes
4. WalkingPad Double Folding Treadmill – $999 (True Space Saver)
This is another option with two modes, one for walking and one for running (sort of) making it a possible addition to your home gym for workouts too. A unique feature of this treadmill is it double folds making for easy storage, even in an upright position.
Walking Pad is one of the more popular brands for an under desk treadmill, especially on social media. I’ve seen a lot of great reviews and happen to like the way this one looks over some of the others. Absolutely a superficial thing, but you get it!
There are a number of cheaper options also from this brand, but I’ve highlighted this because the way it folds up is pretty fabulous for a durable treadmill. I also like that it has a space on the rail to hold your phone or tablet if you are going to use this for workouts.
The treadmill has a digital monitor, phone holder, and foldable and adjustable handrail for use when running. It also has a remote control and a quiet brushless 65 decibel motor. Another feature that stood out was when in walking mode, it offers “intelligent speed control” by sensing your steps.
- Dimensions (entire treadmill): 57”L x 28”W (39.4”L x 28.3”W folded)
- Dimensions (walking area): 47.2”L x 17.3”W
- Weight Capacity: 240 lb
- Speed Range: 0.5-6.2 mph
- Machine Weight: 79 lb
- Incline: Fixed
- Warranty: 1 year
5. Lifespan TR1000-DT3 – $1,499 (Sturdier Feeling)
While getting into more expensive territory, I included this treadmill because not only does it have a higher weight capacity, but it’s overall a heavier machine. This might make it feel a bit more sturdy for users.
This is still not a treadmill for workouts, but if you have any balance issues this may feel a whole lot better. it’s going to feel more like a standard treadmill underfoot. However, being heavier also means you aren’t going to be moving it around.
Another feature I liked was the portable console that can be placed on your desktop to monitor your stats like time, speed, distance, steps, etc. It also has a wider belt at 20”, a shorter base making it a better fit for small workspaces, non-slip side rails, and a super quiet motor.
- Dimensions (entire treadmill): 58”L x 28.5”W x 7.25”H
- Dimensions (walking area): 44”L x 20”W
- Weight Capacity: 350 lb
- Speed Range: 0.4-4.0 mph
- Machine Weight: 117 lbs
- Incline: Fixed
- Warranty: 10 years (frame), 2 years (parts), 1 year (labor)
6. Inmovement Unsit Treadmill – $2,495 (Designed for Offices)
While the most expensive unit on my list, this treadmill has gotten some talk and so I wanted to include it to tell you why. This is a model that is an investment for companies who have employees working in office a lot. Whether that’s a single person at a station or perhaps a work station that gets utilized by numerous people all day long.
And no, at this price it doesn’t come with the standing desk. That’s still on you!
The treadmill was designed specifically for office use so it has a more compact footprint (shorter and wider) to take up less space. Meaning if you work in a big office with cubicles, it’s actually going to fit and not be bother some to those around you. They bill it as “library quiet”.
It also has a smaller speed range for walking pace of only 0.3-2.0 mph. At its max speed of 2.0, its motor measures at only 42 decibels, making it super quiet.
It has a bluetooth app that can be synced with some of your favorite health tracking apps and has a separate one-touch control for speed.
- Dimensions (entire treadmill): 56”L x 39”W
- Dimensions (walking area): 40”L x 30”W
- Weight Capacity: 400 lb
- Speed Range: 0.3-2.0 mph
- Machine Weight: 162 lbs
- Incline: Fixed
- Warranty: Lifetime (frame), 2 years (parts), 1 year (labor)
But can I be really honest…if you’re willing to get in to the over $1,000 range for a treadmill then I’d really recommend just buying a GREAT running treadmill that you can use for workouts and work.
Now the drawback to a standard treadmill for working is the console. So you’d instead place something like a board across the two arms and keep them in place with rubber, etc. More DIY for sure.
When choosing an under desk treadmill, it’s important to consider factors such as motor power, walking surface size, noise level, and overall durability. It’s also important to choose a treadmill that is designed specifically for use in the office, as these models are typically more compact and feature a quieter motor than traditional treadmills.
Hopefully this list gave you something to think about and ideas for the best under desk treadmill for you!
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