Sitting behind a desk all day is not great for your health. Sitting for long periods slows down your metabolism, affecting your body's ability to regulate blood sugar, blood pressure and break down body fat. So it's vitally important to stand up and move around through your day, however intense your office job might be.
You've also almost certainly heard that 10,000 steps is the goal to aim for every day. But when you do work in an office, that is a lot easier said than done. If you are chained to your inbox and phone, how can you exercise productively?
Standing desks are one method of keeping you (literally) on your feet. But they don't get you moving — so why not consider the next step (or 10,000 of them) and invest in an under desk treadmill. These clever, often compact and quiet devices can make a huge difference to your health and fitness, getting you active and moving. They may even help your work productivity.
Under desk treadmills are designed in the same way as the machines you may be familiar with at the gym. They have a moving belt which goes around in an endless loop. However, unlike the sturdier gym or home machines designed for running, they tend not to have handrails or screens (though some do have foldable handrails). That means you simply put the pad underneath your standing desk area, and walk while you type or read those emails. If you are a home worker, you can also opt for an adapatable machine that can be used with handrails as a more standard running device.
However, as the under desk variety has no screen, you might still want to track your movements. Wearing a fitness tracker might therefore be a really good idea to help to keep track of those steps, and watch them add up. And of course if you get inspired — and want to pick up the pace — you could also upgrade to a one of the best standard treadmills.
The quick list
See the quick list below for a short overview of our favorite walking pads, or scroll further down for more in-depth reviews of each as well as other options we recommend.
Best for recovery
This under desk treadmill has the unique feature of vibration mode, which promises to ease any aching muscles
Best foldable walking pad
WalkingPad's most popular model folds to 180°, ready to store in any corner until you need it.
Read more below
Best walking pad with incline
This walking pad style treadmill can go up to a 4% incline, a rare feature for these types of device
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Best value walking pad
Powerful and quiet, and at a budget-friendly price, the UREVO treadmill is a good value purchase
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Best budget walking pad
Often found for under $100, the Elseluck walking pad is a bargain buy that still gets good user reviews
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Best for discreet use
This top-rated walking pad comes with app control, is quiet and compact in size.
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Under desk treadmills we recommend
Orinar Portable Walking Pad
Orinar Portable Walking Pad
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This walking pad style treadmill is a bargain buy, often available for under $100. It's lightweight and compact, and comes with wheels so that when you do want to store it, it's easy to do so.
There's no assembly, you just plug and go, though it's worth making sure that you read the instructions fully and do use the lubricating oil that comes with it to make sure the belt doesn't snag or skip.
Despite the bargain price, it still comes with an LED display and a remove control, so that you can change the speed or stop the belt while you are using it at your desk. The LED screen displays speed, distance, time and calories burnt.
This treadmill has a 2.5HP motor and a user weight capacity of up to 265 lbs, and you can adjust the speed from 0-3.8 MPH.
Walking Pad P1
WalkingPad P1
WalkingPad have a range of under-desk treadmills, with the P1 being the most budget-friendly option. There are few frills to this model for that reason, but if you are looking for a space saving model with great storage options, this could be the under desk treadmill for you.
It's clever design means the entire device can be folded in half and tucked away under a sofa or even in a large cupboard. There are some limitations to its compact size, however, including that the power cable it fairly short so you'll need to make sure you can use it near to a power outlet.
There's no screen here, and it's not the most powerful machine but it does have a smartphone app which you can use to control it. There's also a wireless remote control that does have a high definition screen, and you can use this for all the obvious features (on/off, speed, pause) but also to see mileage and calorie output.
ToDo Underdesk Treadmill
ToDo Under Desk Treadmill
The ToDo walking treadmill is a well made, smooth-running budget option for those looking for an under desk treadmill. It runs reasonably quietly at low speeds, and thanks to being able to adjust the speed in smaller (0.1km/h) increments than is the case with many other treadmills, you should have no difficulty finding the perfect natural walking pace for you.
The noise level does increase on more brisk walking speeds, which could interfere with work, but it’s pretty easy to adjust using the remote control. There is also a memory function where you can store your preferred favourite speed.
The belt of this treadmill is perhaps not suited for very tall users, or those with a very long stride. It's also a 'true' under desk treadmill in that it does not come with handrails — not even optional ones. There are few other extras either. But what you do get is a good, solid and well-built machine that may not have top end bonus features, but also will not put a dent in your bank balance.
Spearax Walking Vibration Pad
Spearax Walking Vibration Pad
This is an under desk treadmill with a difference. It has the standard capabilities: a 2.5HP motor with speeds from 0.2 to 3.8 mph and a nicely quiet and smooth operation of below 45 dB. It's very lightweight at just 27lb so is easy to store away upright or under a sofa.
But on top of these features, it comes with four different vibration modes, allowing you to enjoy a 5-minute vibration massage after your workout. There are four different settings available, from gentle to intense, with the aim of reducing inflammation and soothing your tired muscles. How effective that actually is may be up for debate, but it's certainly a novel feature.
The Sperax treadmill also has an LED display, remote control and it also pairs with the Sperax Fitness app to provide real-time monitoring of metrics like calories burned, speed, time, and distance.
Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill 2.25HP
Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill 2.25HP
This 2-in-1 treadmill can be used as an under desk treadmill and in its running mode with the handlebars raised. It features a five-layer non-slip running belt, which should help prevent users from accidentally slipping when the belt gets wet.
Assembly is designed to take a matter of minutes, but it's important to remember to lubricate the belt before use, as the belt can snag without doing so. It's also worth remembering that when the safety handles are attached, you cannot fold up the treadmill. This means that you have to unscrew the handlebars to fold it up.
This treadmill is designed to be solidly built and sturdy, featuring a steel frame. However, it shouldn't be so sturdy that you cannot move it. The LED display will show the time, speed, distance and calories burned during your exercise. However, it's worth noting that these stats won't be as precise as your smartwatch's calculations.
The Goplus also features a Bluetooth speaker that you can connect to your phone, so you can play music while walking. The treadmill can run at up to 7.5mph in running mode and 3mph in walking mode. Plus, the silent sound insulation layer should prevent heavy footfall from annoying neighbors for those who live in apartments.
UREVO 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
UREVO 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill 2.5HP deal
Tight on space? Then the UREVO 2.5HP treadmill might be the right choice for you. It's designed to be compact and light enough to slide under the couch thanks to built-in wheels. It also comes with anti-slip rubber pads to assist with stability. However, it's worth noting that it can be quite narrow at 16.9 inches, which might make it more difficult to use.
The advanced non-slip running belt and Silica infused gel column support are designed to provide extra bounce and cushioning. This treadmill should be able to comfortably handle speeds of up to 7.6mph with the frame up and walking speeds of up to 3.8mph when the frame is down.
Best of all, you can just plug, play and go with this treadmill, as there's no need to lubricate the belt. In fact, the belt won't require topping up with a lubricator until the indicator alerts you that there is the need to refill.
Citysports Under Desk Treadmill deal
Citysports Under Desk Treadmill deal
If you want a standard, entry level under desk treadmill, this could be the one for you. It's designed to be robust and sturdy, making it suitable for a fast power walk with its 6mph top speed.
Aimed at all fitness levels and ages, its shock absorption design and non-slip running belt should help provide better grip for older customers. The added wheels attached should also make it easier to move, as its 62 lbs of weight would make it a pretty heavy piece of equipment to move without them.
Shopping for a noise-free treadmill is virtually impossible to do, as you'll usually hear some sort of vibration in the background. However, the 440W built-in motor in this treadmill is fairly quiet for walking and shouldn't interfere with your phone calls or bother your neighbours. This treadmill also comes with the addition of a Bluetooth speaker on the base, so when playing music you should hear a minimal amount of vibration noise.
LifeSpan TR800-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill
LifeSpan TR800-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill deal
This is the smallest and least expensive of the LifeSpan treadmill options, but you should be able to expect the same quality engineering as other models. Built to last, this under desk treadmill features heavy-duty aluminium and alloy steel to support weight up to 350lbs. The LifeSpan TR800-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill's sleek design resembles a studio model, albeil without the handrails you'd usually expect.
The shock absorption belt should be easy on your joints, featuring added bounce. It's worth noting that this treadmill is pretty heavy, clocking in at 119 lbs. This makes it almost double the weight of other under desk treadmills in this round-up. However, if it was any lighter then it likely wouldn't be able to support the 350 lbs in weight that it currently boasts.
Unlike other under desk treadmills, the TR800-DT3 does not include a LED screen on the base. Instead, everything is controlled by a feature-rich digital console that even enables you to add your weight.
WalkingPad A1 Pro
WalkingPad A1 Pro
Like WalkingPad's P1 model above, the A1 Pro has a super-storable foldable design. It offers an upgrade on the P1 model in several areas, perhaps most notably in its maximum user weight — which at 300lbs makes it one of the best under-desk treadmills for heavier users.
The A1 Pro has a remote control as well as a screen on the device itself, which shows metrics such as distance, time and speed. One unique features of the A1 Pro, however, is that it features both manual mode, where the user can adjust speed using either the remote or the accompanying app — and also automatic mode.
In automatic mode, the treadmill will speed up or slow down in response to where you actually position your feet on the belt. If you move them closer to the front, it will speed up, and if you move more to the back, it will slow down. So you can mimic an outdoor or variable pace walk without having to adjust any settings.
As with the P1 WalkingPad, some users do report that the app is a little glitchy. However this may only really matter if you wish to make a full log if your walks and distance travelled.
Under desk treadmills: FAQs
What should I look for in an under desk treadmill?
When looking for an under desk treadmill, it’s important to look for bounce, as well as space on the belt itself. It's important that you will feel comfortable walking with your own natural stride pattern.
Some under desk treadmills come with a sound insulation layer, which can be helpful if you are worried about noise distracting either you or others in your house.
If you are recovering from an injury and plan to use the treadmill to gently ease back into mobility, then you might also want to look for one with a decent shock-absorbing belt and extra cushioning. You'll also want that if you plan to use the treadmill for more brisk runs or even jogs. Finally, you will want to consider what surface the treadmill will be on, and potentially consider adding some anti-slip rubber pads to provide extra stability.
Should I buy an under-desk pad or a treadmill?
Not sure if you should buy an under desk walking pad, or a dual purpose treadmill? It depends largely what you want to use it for.
Walking pads tend to come without handles, fit underneath your desk and are often reasonable basic. Whereas a treadmill tends to be larger, and have more features. Then there are 2-in-1 models which combine both. For example they might have removable handles.
Both dual purpose (walking pad/ treadmill hybrids) and normal treadmills tend to have higher top speeds, so if you are planning to run as well as walk, you will probably want one of these models. You can check our walking treadmills and classic treadmills reviews for all our suggestions for the best buys.
Treadmills often have built-in screens showing either you data, or in the more premium models, exercise classes or workouts that you can join in. Home treadmills usually have a top speed of around 8-12mph, whereas under desk style ones rarely go above around 4 mph. Treadmills also have bigger motors to power their speed, which can in turn also make them noisier.
If your goal is simply to increase your step count, and to do so while working, then look at a walking pad style machine. If your space is limited, you will also want to carefully look at the dimensions and storage capabilities of the devices, such as whether they can fold.
Should I aim for 10,000 steps a day?
The goal of 10,000 steps has been questioned over the years. Is it really the ideal number, and is it based on any science? A meta-study in The Lancet looked into just this, and while the authors noted the relative paucity of evidence, from their meta-analysis of 15 studies, they did find that "taking more steps per day was associated with progressively lower mortality risk" and that this was true up to around 8,000-10,000 steps a day for adults (beyond this there did not seem to be a further benefit in terms of mortality risk).
Whether or not you aim for a specific number of steps, it's certainly the case that not sitting for long periods is a good thing. A study of 8,000 adults in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed an association between prolonged sitting and a risk of early death from any cause, while other research has shown links between prolonged sitting or other sedentary behavior to diabetes, poor heart health, weight gain, depression, dementia, and multiple cancers.
