My secret weapon at work isn’t an organized inbox, a streamlined to-do list, or a time-blocking method—it’s a treadmill.
I recently upgraded my work from home setup with a standing desk and a foldable walking cushion that slides perfectly under my workspace. I was influenced by countless TikTok videos and I’m so glad I gave in to the allure. It was an investmentbut one that has paid for itself. However, nowadays you can find them cheaper than before. (Like, $100 cheap.)
Since using my treadmill at work, my energy and creativity have skyrocketed. My mind is sharper when I try to focus on tasks, and the 3 p.m. slump is a little easier to slog through. And of course, I’m taking more steps — a habit I lost when the pandemic hit. On a good day I probably walk about 10 miles. On an average day I do at least four or five.
It’s not really a surprise that I see positive results: research shows that exercise is beneficial for the body and mind. Just walk 21 minutes a day can reduce your risk of heart disease, among other diseases, including diabetes. It also reduces symptoms of depression (can be confirmed), strengthens your immune system and promotes better sleep, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Are there days when I don’t feel like using the treadmill? Certainly. I’m currently sitting with my feet on it as I write this story. There are also days when I walk and still feel exhausted. That is the nature of a human being who has a job and currently lives in the world in general. But on balance, this new setup has made a world of difference for me.
If you’re considering taking this step for yourself (yes, I did that on purpose), below are some treadmill options you may want to consider. They come highly recommended on TikTok – where the treadmill desk rose to viral fame – or by reviewers. There aren’t many higher weight options on the market yet, but we hope to add more soon. If there’s one here for you, you won’t regret the purchase.
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Amazon
An extremely affordable option that starts at just $80
The most affordable option on the list, this Bifanuo treadmill for under the desk runs up to 4 miles per hour, with a weight capacity of 265 pounds. The LED display shows your speed, distance, time and calories burned with a handy remote control to determine your pace. The front wheels make it movable and the anti-slip tire keeps you stable.
Promising review: “I bought this on impulse and I don’t regret it! It’s cheap, good quality, quiet, lightweight and small. I live in an apartment and have no problem with it being too loud. It’s quiet on tiles , wood , and carpet (barely heard in the next room) It was very quick and easy to set up, adjusting the strap is easy and rarely even needed walking ?! Lol, I would Buy 100 times more” — Abigail
A highly rated option with a weight limit of 320 pounds
Amazon
This Sperax treadmill is a popular one Amazon option that can support up to 320 pounds, and features a quiet motor and durable steel frame. You can reach speeds of up to 6 km and the preset modes make it easy to start walking.
Promising review: “I had a large, standard treadmill in my workout room and sold it when I got a piano. However, I need the ability to walk on days when the sidewalks are too icy for safety. So I bought this walking pad and I love it. It fits next to my desk in the now music room, and I even have room for a cello, if I get one again I’ll give it 4 stars instead of 5 because the strap isn’t easy to lift for lubrication. as the Second was it would it is best if you measure your stride. I am 6 feet tall and my stride is the length of the cushion. I know when I am nearing the end because it makes a creaking sound. However, this walking cushion is a great replacement for a treadmill if you simply don’t have the space or the money. Plus, it’s very easy to move: just lift the back and push gently. The wheels engage when tilting and voila! on the number of steps you take and/or your heart rate, then buy a smartwatch.” Carolyn
Amazon
Rhythm Fun under-desk treadmill with incline
Creates an 8% adjustable slope this treadmill even more powerful. There’s a handy digital display that shows your speed, time, distance and calories burned at speeds of up to 6.1 km per hour. The weight limit is 300 pounds and the treadmill has a 5-ply non-slip treadmill to keep you stable.
Promising review: “This treadmill with tread is very convenient to use. When I am at home, I can place it against the wall. When I want to exercise, I take it off and put it next to the table to replace the chair. In this way, I can walk while looking at the computer on my desk. The quality is also very good, and it does not shake while running. The noise level is also so low that I don’t think it would disturb the neighbors.” Ruixin Bai
WalkingPad folding treadmill
This is the brand I own and I highly recommend it. Although, my exact model is currently sold out, this option is incredibly similar. It folds in half and has wheels for easy storage when not in use. It is also fairly quiet. I was recently able to walk during a meeting without it being a nuisance, and I live in an apartment complex with neighbors who could easily complain if it was a nuisance. It comes with a remote control and an app that allows you to change your speed. The weight limit for this treadmill is 220 pounds.
Promising review: “This walking cushion is perfect for my partner and I to walk in steps all day long. It has a great sturdy design that feels sturdy with every step, but is also easy to maneuver. We chose this product because of the foldable feature that makes it’s so easy to store when not in use! Great functionality with the use of both the included remote and the app, which makes it look sleek as it doesn’t require a display. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a walking path with limited square meters in their home Definitely worth the price and that is a construction that should last for years.” — Sean Sutanto
Goyouth under-desk electric treadmill
Reagan Poltrockperhaps one of the most prominent treadmill desk influencers on TikTok uses this treadmill in her setup. Poltrock has gone viral for informative videos how many steps she takes in a day using her treadmill desk, how she types while walking and more. The Goyouth treadmill comes with a remote control and a digital screen with your statistics. It accelerates up to 3.7 per hour and has a recommended weight capacity of 300 pounds. Reviewers have praised the product for being so robust, Calm and a game changer for their home office. Be sure to bring the $30 coupon.
Promising review: “I have used the treadmill almost every day since I got it a year ago. Works great as a walking pad under a standing desk. Helped me reach my daily steps of 10,000 steps! I had a problem with it right after the warranty had expired, and GoYouth customer service went above and beyond to help me. They responded quickly and resolved the problem without any problems. I really appreciate their commitment to customer satisfaction.” — Sanya M
Umay treadmill for under the desk
When I was researching my desk treadmill options, I strongly considered this one from Umay. TikTok user Kristen Hollingshaus Seninger, which went viral on the app advantages her treadmill setup, uses this brand and says her treadmill is reliable. It features an LED screen and comes with a remote control. The treadmill reaches a speed of 4 miles per hour and the recommended weight limit is 235 pounds.
Promising review: “I love this running mat. There is no assembly required, the treadmill is very durable and I love how compact it is. I am very happy with this running mat. Saves space and is great to use when the weather is bad I like that it has multiple speed levels, can control everything from the remote, and I like that it is quiet. I’m so glad I bought it. I’m very happy with my purchase very easy to use and doesn’t require much space.” — DERWIN W.