"A couple of weeks ago, I was doing my usual TikTok scroll when I saw a video of someone sharing their home office setup. She had what she called a “walking pad,” AKA a foldable, under-desk treadmill. Not only did I immediately open Amazon to see if I needed to get one for myself, but it also got me thinking: What kind of desk exercise equipment exists to help you get fit while you work?
Plus, you can pick them up at your local CVS right now!
Turns out, there are quite a few options. You can get a stationary bike desk, a standing desk, a balance ball chair, an under-desk elliptical, and so much more. While it might sound kind of silly, these options are great for people who simply don’t have enough time in the day to get a workout in or would prefer to be moving while they work. The pandemic has forced us to be sitting in our WFH setups for a lot more hours per day than we’d probably like to, so these solutions for staying active at your desk are an ideal way to avoid the usual sitting-down-all-day fatigue.
We searched the internet for the best ways to get fit without leaving your desk and found 12 awesome methods for doing so:
The Tiktok-viral under-desk treadmill—AKA "walking pad"—is really the thing that sparked the idea for this whole article. This foldable treadmill fits right under your desk so you can walk while you work. Your Apple Watch rings and step goals won't even know what hit 'em.
If you're going to add an under-desk treadmill, you'll probably need to switch to a standing desk, and this relatively affordable option from Amazon is a great choice. And even if you're not opting for the treadmill, a standing desk can help you avoid sitting in a chair all day long.
Don't want to actually make the switch to a whole new desk or want to save some money? This standing desk converter can sit right on the desk you already have. Plus, it comes in three finishes so that you can match it to your home office decor.
If the walking pad isn't for you, this under-desk elliptical is another option for getting fit while you work. It slides right under your desk and you can use it while sitting down, so you won't need to swap out your desk setup. Plus, this option saves you some space.
If you're looking for something that's a little easier on the eyes, this chic, minimalist, all-white desk bike could be your perfect match. You can purchase it with the desktop or without, which gives you the option to use it with your current desk or a standing desk.
Our editors love this Peloton-compatible acrylic desk tray, which easily slides onto your stationary bike. This is great for getting in some exercise while you knock out those busywork projects.
One of the easiest and most subtle ways to get fit at your desk is by adding weighted bangles to your ankles or wrists. You can fit in a quick arm series or do some under-the-desk leg lifts while you work.
A balance ball chair is not only good for your posture, but it can also help improve balance and build core strength. It is also said to keep your body and mind more engaged, which in turn increases productivity, energy, and focus.
If you're not ready to commit to a balance ball chair, this cushion is a more subtle and affordable way to achieve the same results.
Obé Fitness is our favorite way to get a workout in at any time of day. The classes are quick and effective, so they're perfect for squeezing into your lunch hour or when you want to step away for a quick break (there are even classes that are only 10 minutes!). And if you don't have time to step away from your desk, there are Chair Stretch classes as well.
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If you do have time to take a break from your desk for a quick workout or stretch, this editor-favorite yoga set has everything you need. The mat is thick and comfortable, and it easily rolls up so you can store it near your workspace. It also comes with blocks, towels, and a yoga strap, so you'll be able to take your practice up a notch.
Have you ever found yourself sitting in a long, camera-off meeting and beginning to get restless? Channel that energy into a quick set of weight-lifting reps with these lightweight dumbbells. It's the perfect way to get toned arms without having to try too hard.