Cardio
Under-Desk Ellipticals and Treadmills: Worth It or Gimmick?
Independently tested
Under-desk cardio splits into two categories: seated ellipticals (low bar, low reward) and walking pads (higher bar, real reward). We tested a mix of both to sort the useful from the marketing.
At a glance
3 products compared
| Product | Key specs | Pros & cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best under-desk elliptical GlidePedal Pro |
|
| $149 Check Price on Amazon |
Editor's pick — walking pad Nordic Flow Pro |
|
| $549 Check Price on Amazon |
Best value walking pad DeskTrek Lite |
|
| $279 Check Price on Retailer |
Best under-desk elliptical
GlidePedal Pro
- TypeSeated elliptical
- Resistance8 levels
- Noise35 dB
- Weight22 lbs
- Very quiet
- Cheap way to move while sitting
- Portable
- Low cardiovascular benefit
- Awkward geometry with most desks
Editor's pick — walking pad
Nordic Flow Pro
- TypeWalking pad
- Max speed4 mph
- Noise42 dB
- Weight cap265 lbs
- Quiet enough for calls
- Rock-solid deck
- Simple remote
- Heavy
- Premium price
Best value walking pad
DeskTrek Lite
- TypeWalking pad
- Max speed3.7 mph
- Noise48 dB
- Weight cap220 lbs
- Under $300
- Compact and easy to store
- App integration works
- Slight deck flex over 3 mph
- Short warranty