In the middle of winter, it can be difficult to stay active. This can be extra true if you have knee, hip, or joint pain or mobility issues that make exercise extra challenging. Yet, as a licensed physical therapist, Raquelle Felder previously told HuffPost, “motion is lotion,” i.e., adding movement to your daily routine may actually soothe muscles and joints.
But did you know there’s a low-impact way you can stimulate your legs while sitting? Enter: the seated, “under desk” elliptical. With studies about it in the National Library of Medicine, this little machine lets you pedal while sitting on a couch or at a desk, almost like a recumbent bike. And you know we found you a highly-rated option that’s currently on sale for 30% off, the lowest price it’s been — ever.
While other mini steppers (like this bestselling one HuffPost users love) provide manual pedaling only, this digital option goes the extra mile.
Digital and remote-powered, this nifty machine lets you move your legs without bending or straining. With 12 resistance levels and 12 speeds, you use it to pump a sweat or just casually pedal as you’re working or relaxing. It also comes with auto settings that adjust speed and direction automatically, giving you one less thing to worry about.
In addition to the handy remote, this machine features an LCD touchscreen to show calories burned, speed, distance traveled and more. You’ll also get a set of resistance bands and foot straps for extra security.
The surplus of resistance and speed levels let you totally customize your workout.
While you can pump the speed and resistance, users love to gently move on the machine, often while watching television or working at a desk. ”(I am a teacher) and I love having this little elliptical machine under my desk,” one wrote. “When I am grading or planning, it’s simply a nice feature to have the option of using.”
Deemed “a great way for her to stay active without overdoing it,” by a reviewer whose mother is recovering from a knee replacement, the machine can grow with you as you recover or strengthen. “I feel more active and less stiff since I started using it,” one wrote. ”…Surprisingly effective!”
Another reviewer who said they “spend a lot of time sitting,” whether at work or just hanging out at home, calls the machine “perfect” for keeping their legs moving through the day.
“The motion is smooth and quiet, so I can use it without bothering anyone or even while on calls,” they wrote. “The different speed settings and automatic modes are great for changing up the workout, and it actually helps improve my circulation.”
Weighing a little over 11 pounds with a built-in handle, users can move it around their space and can tuck it away when they’re not using it. The non-slip rubber padding gives you security no matter what room you’re pedaling in (though the brand suggests using it on a hard floor or putting it on a non-slip mat) if you’ve got carpeting. The machine comes partially assembled, though users say it’s a breeze the moment you take it out of the box. “So good for my older parents. They really like using it,” beth wrote. “Great for the joints. Easy to assemble.”
Want more easy movement? Grab this under-desk elliptical while it’s on sale. And check out additional promising reviews if you need more of a reason to pedal at home.
“I have been looking for a elliptical machine that I can use at home and not having to go to the gym. This machine works perfectly and I can get my workout at home. It was easy to assemble and easy to use. I have made using the elliptical machine an everday exercise for it works so well and is doing a great job getting me in shape!” — Jane L
“I really love this elliptical! I spend a lot of time sitting at my desk and watching TV, and this has been perfect for keeping my legs moving. It’s super easy to use — just plug it in, grab the remote, and start pedaling. The motion is smooth and quiet, so I can use it without bothering anyone or even while on calls. The different speed settings and automatic modes are great for changing up the workout, and it actually helps improve my circulation. It’s also great for older adults or anyone who wants a gentle, low-impact way to exercise. I feel more active and less stiff since I started using it. Definitely worth it — compact, easy to use, and surprisingly effective!” — Hery
“Bought this for my mother after her knee replacement, and it’s been perfect! The small scale elliptical is quiet and easy to use. She loves that she can adjust the speed and modes with the remote, and it’s small enough to store beside her living room chair. It’s a great way for her to stay active without overdoing it. Highly recommend for anyone needing a low-impact exercise option!” — Crabby
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