It’s no secret that movement is medicine. But in a fast-paced and forever on-demand world, where we are sitting more and standing less, how can you stay active and hit your 10,000 steps? Introducing: under-desk treadmills.
Under-desk treadmills might be nothing new (it’s believed the first was created in 2015), but they are having a moment right now. And it’s for good reason. Easy to unbox, easy to use and even easier to clock up some mileage before, after or during work, the best under-desk treadmills make maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle easier than before. Especially during the cold and winter months. You can multitask by hopping from email to email and video call to video call while walking and ticking off your to-do list.
Better yet, according to a piece of research published in PLOS One, it’s been claimed that treadmill workstations improve physical activity and work performance as well as levelling up your step count. This is very important considering research has shown us that walking 10,000 steps a day is associated with a lower risk of dementia, heart disease, cancer and even death.
Shop the best under-desk treadmills at a glance:
What are the benefits of an under-desk treadmill?
According to personal trainer Luke Hughes, CEO and co-founder of OriGym, the benefits of an under-desk treadmill don’t stop there. He says: “They include increased productivity, reduced stress, improved cardiovascular health, lowered blood pressure, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes as well as improved posture. They have seen a rise in demand because of how practical they are for people who work from home.”
However, as Hughes warns: “The benefits of using a desk treadmill are only implemented with regular and prolonged use. It’s also key to remember that using a desk treadmill shouldn’t replace your usual exercise. So whilst the benefits of a desk treadmill are huge, they also need to be used frequently to make a difference.”
Here are some of the best under-desk treadmills we found.