My secret weapon at work isn’t an organized inbox, a streamlined to-do list or a time-blocking method ― it’s a treadmill.
Recently, I upgraded my work from home setup by purchasing a standing desk and a foldable walking pad that slides perfectly underneath my workspace. I was influenced by numerous TikTok videos and I’m so glad I gave into the allure. It was an investment, but one that has paid for itself. Yet these days, you can find them for cheaper than in the past. (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 getting 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 I’m seeing positive results: Research shows movement is beneficial to your mind and body. Walking just 21 minutes a day can cut your risk of heart disease, among other illnesses, including diabetes. It also reduces symptoms of depression (can confirm), boosts your immune system and promotes better sleep, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Are there days I don’t feel like using the treadmill? Sure. I’m currently sitting with my feet propped on it as I write this story. There are also days when I walk and I still feel drained. That’s the nature of being a human who has a job and is just generally living in the world right now. But on balance, this new setup has made a world of difference for me.
If you’re thinking about taking this step (yes, I did that on purpose) for yourself, below are a few treadmill options you may want to consider. They come either highly-recommended on TikTok ― where the treadmill desk skyrocketed to viral fame ― or by reviewers. There aren’t a lot of higher weight capacity options on the market yet, but here’s hoping we have more to add soon. If there’s one here for you, you won’t regret the purchase.
Amazon
An extremely affordable option that starts at just $80
The most affordable option on the list, this Bifanuo under-desk treadmill 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 belt keeps you steady.
Promising review: “I bought this on impulse and I do not regret it! It is cheap, great quality, quiet, lightweight, and small. I live in an apartment and have no trouble with it being to loud. It is quiet on tile, wood, and carpet. (Barely able to hear it in the next room) It was very quick and easy to set up, belt adjustment is easy and rarely needed. Little to no belt slipping. It is super comfortable and easy to forget you’re even walking. In 20 days I’ve walked 86 miles. How insane is that?! Lol I would buy 100 times over” — Abigail
A highly-rated option with a 320-pound weight limit
Amazon
This Sperax treadmill is a popular Amazon option that can hold up to 320 pounds, and is equipped with a quiet motor and a durable steel frame. You can approach speeds of up to 3.8 miles and preset modes enable you to easily start walking.
Promising review: “I had a large, standard treadmill in my workout room and then 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, when I get one again. I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 because the belt is not easy to lift for lubrication like the treadmill was. Secondly, it would be best if you measure your stride. I am 5’7″ and my stride is the length of the pad. I can tell when I’m getting close to the end because it will make a creaking noise. However, this walking pad is a great substitute 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 gently push. Its wheels engage with the tilt and voila! Another thing I would suggest, if you pay attention to the numbers of steps you take and/or your pulse rate, get a smart watch.” — Carolyn
Amazon
Rhythm Fun under-desk treadmill with incline
An 8% adjustable incline makes this treadmill even more powerful. There’s a handy digital display to show your speed, time, distance and calories burned with speeds up to 3.8 miles per hour. The weight limit is 300 pounds, and the treadmill has a 5-layer anti-slip running belt to keep you steady.
Promising review: “This walking pad treadmillis very convenient to use. When I am at home, I can place it against the wall. When I want to exercise, I take it down and put it next to the table to replace the chair. In this way, I can walk while watching the computer on my desk. Its quality is also very good, and it does not shake when running. The noise level is also low that I think it should not disturb the neighbors.” — Ruixin Bai
WalkingPad folding treadmill
This is the brand that I own and I highly recommend it. Though, my exact model is currently sold out, this option is incredibly similar. It folds in half and has wheels, so you can store it easily when you’re not using it. It’s also fairly quiet. I was able to walk during a meeting recently without it being a nuisance, and I live in apartment building with neighbors who could easily complain if it was a disturbance. It comes with a remote control and an app you can use to change your speed. The weight limit for this treadmill is 220 pounds.
Promising review: “This walking pad has been perfect for my partner and I to get in steps throughout the day. It has a great solid design that feels sturdy with every step but is also easy to maneuver around. We picked this product because of the folding feature which makes it so easy to stow away when not using it! Great functionality with the use of both the included remote and app, giving it a sleek look because there is no need for display screen on it. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a walking pad with limited square footage in their home. Definitely worth the price and has a build that should last for years.” — Sean Sutanto
Goyouth under-desk electric treadmill
Reagan Poltrock, arguably one of the most prominent treadmill desk influencers on TikTok, uses this treadmill in her set up. Poltrock has gone viral for informational videos on how many steps she gets in a day using her treadmill desk, how she types while walking and more. The Goyouth treadmill comes with a remote and a digital screen with your stats. It speeds up to 3.7 per hour and has a recommended weight capacity of 300 pounds. Reviewers have praised the product for being sturdy, quiet and a game-changer for their home office. Be sure to grab the $30 coupon.
Promising review: “I’ve used the treadmill almost everyday since I got it a year ago. Works great as a walking pad under a standing desk. Has helped me reach my 10k daily steps! had an issue with it right after the warranty expired, and GoYouth’s customer service went above and beyond to help me out. They responded quickly and resolved the problem without any hassle. I truly appreciate their commitment to customer satisfaction. Highly recommend!” — Sanya M
Umay under-desk treadmill
When I was researching options for my desk treadmill, I strongly considered this one by Umay. TikTok user Kristen Hollingshaus Seninger, who went viral on the app for sharing her walking desk setup, uses this brand and says her treadmill has been reliable. It features an LED screen and comes with a remote control. The treadmill goes up to 3.8 miles per hour, and the recommended weight limit is 235 pounds.
Promising review: “Love this walking mat. No assembly required, the treadmill is very durable and I love how compact it is. I really like this walking mat. Saves space and is great to use when the weather is bad. I like that it has multiple speed levels, being able to control everything from the remote, and I like that it’s quiet. The little wheels on the bottom make it easy for me to pull it out from under my bed or wherever I need to store it. I love it and am so glad I bought it! I am very happy with my purchase. It is exactly what I was looking for. Very easy to use and doesn’t require much space.” — DERWIN W.