We've all heard of the risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle. The problem is that so many of us spend our working days tied to a desk, and that means little to no activity.
The good news is that the best under desk treadmills (also known as walking pads) allow people who are confined to their desks a way to take steps to boost their activity levels.
What an under desk treadmill offers is the opportunity to keep moving and get in some exercise, even while you're working.
At A Glance - Our Top Picks
- Best Under Desk Treadmill Overall: WalkingPad C2 (S1)
- Best Under Desk Treadmill for Walking: UREVO Under desk treadmill
- Best Small Under Desk Treadmill: Bigzzia Motorised Treadmill
Why Trust Us?
At Home Gym Supply, we don't just talk about under desk treadmills, we have experience selling, assembling and repairing them. Our experience also includes dealing with different brands and levels of customer care.
Our engineers see which machines perform well and which don't. This means we get to see which ones are reliable, perform well, and which might not be worth your money.
We're going to be looking at the best under-desk treadmills, as we review 6 separate models.
Ready to boost your metabolism and improve your cardio? Keep reading.
Our Top 6 Under Desk Treadmills Available in the UK
1) WalkingPad C2 (S1)
Specifications
| Maximum Speed | 6 kmph |
| Weight | 25 kg |
| Dimensions | 144.5D x 51.8W x 12.5H cm |
| Max. User Weight | 100kg |
The WalkingPad C2 (S1) deserves our top rank because it offers a great budget option. Being a budget option doesn't mean that it's lacking though. It comes with a pretty amazing folding design, making it easy to store under a bed or even a sofa. What we really like is the fact that this folding design means that there's no need to assemble when you buy – you simply unfold and it's good to go.
This under desk treadmill comes with an app and remote control. Speeds can be adjusted from around 0.3mph up to around 4mh. There's also a great LED display so you can clearly see the steps you've taken and your calories burned.
Another great feature here is the motor. Described as “efficient and durable” the key thing for us is that it’s quiet. This makes it a perfect option for an office environment.
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2) UREVO Under Desk Treadmill
Specifications
| Maximum Speed | 6 kmph |
| Weight | 25 kg |
| Dimensions | 127cm x 52cm x 12.5cm |
| Max. User Weight | 120kg |
The UREVO Under Desk Treadmill is another good option for anyone who wants to increase their step count.
Being one of the cheaper options on our list, it suprisingly has only a slightly smaller running deck than pricier models. It's also a bit on the lighter side thanks to it's aluminium frame. This model also includes a remote control which is unusual in this price range.
To help with reducing impacts it comes with a dual shock system that has 8 shock absorbers and 2 soft rubber cushions underneath, which also helps with noise reduction. The 2.25HP motor is also quiet and can handle users of up to 120kg at speeds ranging from 0.9 - 6kmph with a 5-layer anti-slip belt.
It has a standard LED display that shows all the usual metrics like time, calories burned, step count, speed, and distance. Its compact design, measuring 127cm x 52cm x 12.5cm and weighing 25kg makes it relatively easy to move and store.
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3) Goyouth 2 in 1 under desk treadmill
Specifications
| Maximum Speed | 9 kmph |
| Weight | 29 kg |
| Dimensions | 140 x 68 x 16.5 cm |
| Max. User Weight | 100kg |
Another great option, this model comes with a powerful motor but, more importantly, it's quiet too. What else adds to the quietness of this walking pad is the fact that it features shock absorbers. This means that your running steps can hardly be heard at all.
With a top speed of around 4mph, what we’re fans of here is the LED display. As well as the usual information that we’ve seen with other models, this one also shows the calories that you’ve burned. When it comes to calories, there are 12 workout programs to choose from. These vary allowing you to boost cardio health and burn fat.
Another plus here is that the walking pad comes ready assembled. With the addition of wheels, it's also incredibly easy to move to wherever you'd like it stored.
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4) HFC Space-saving motorised treadmill
Specifications
| Maximum Speed | 10 kmph |
| Weight | 22 kg |
| Dimensions | 122 cm x 49 cm x 14 cm |
| Max. User Weight | 110kg |
This is another model that could easily be classed as the best overall. It comes in at a great price and also has an array of features. Unlike some of the models that we’ve looked at so far, this one allows you to break into a bit of a run, with a top speed of 6 mph.
As we’d expect from a top walking pad, this one comes with an exceptionally quiet motor as well as shock absorbers that assist with noise reduction. Again, this model comes fully assembled so that you can start to use it straight away.
The LED monitor allows you to see speed, distance and calories. It's super slim and lightweight design both mean that it's easy to store, even when space is really restricted.
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5) Bigzzia Motorised Treadmill
Specifications
| Maximum Speed | 10 kmph |
| Weight | 23.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 120D x 50W x 13H cm |
| Max. User Weight | 110kg |
When looking for one of the top walking pads, this model from Bigzzia is worth a look. Just like the previous model, this allows you to take the speed up to 6mph so that you can build up a little pace. As you’re doing this, you can clearly see your speed, the time you’ve been exercising, the distance you’ve gone and the calories burned.
The slim design is great for the workplace as is the ultra-quiet motor. It also features 5-layer shock absorbers that make this even quieter, as well as protect your knees and other joints.
Again, this walking pad comes fully assembled so you can literally just unpack it and get going. With transport wheels included, it’s super easy to move to any location of your choice.
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6) JTX Movelight
Specifications
| Maximum Speed | 6 kmph |
| Weight | 29.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 143.2(l) x 54.7(w) x 12.9(h)cm |
| Max. User Weight | 100kg |
This under-desk treadmill is aimed at people looking to walk or enjoy a light jog, with a max speed of 4mph. There are 4 training modes to choose from and you can decide which one suits your goals best.
This model comes with a remote control that’s really easy to use and the great design means that the entire treadmill can be stored under a bed or even a sofa. Like the other walk pads we’ve looked at, this one also comes fully assembled and ready to go.
The motor on this model is quiet. This means that you can make the most of this walking pad in the workplace or even at home while watching TV or listening to music.
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Is It Worth Buying an Under-Desk Treadmill?
With an under-desk treadmill, you're getting an exercise device that is used for walking, rather than sprinting.
That's why they're often referred to as walking pads. You'll find that these are less expensive than traditional treadmills and can still bring a host of benefits.
By using a walking pad as part of your daily routine, you have the chance to improve your cardio health and burn extra calories too.
The fact that an under-desk treadmill gets you up and out of your chair also means that it stops you from slouching and causing issues with your back and neck.
Recommendations suggest that to get the best out of your under-desk treadmill, you need to be using it for between 1 and 2 hours a day.
If you would usually be fairly static as you work, and you can commit to at least an hour, then an under-desk treadmill could well be a great investment.
Related: What are the benefits of under desk treadmills?
What Goes into Making the Best Under-Desk Treadmill?
If you're used to the traditional type of treadmill, you'll find that a walking pad / desk treadmill is a little different.
They won't come with some of the features that you'd typically expect from a full-blown version, but this is reflected in the price.
Before you go ahead and buy, you need to think about:
Size
The point of a walking pad, for many people, is to find a way of exercising during the times when they’d otherwise be still. That means that the space that it’s used in is usually relatively limited.
The kit needs to fit in the area that you plan to use it in. Also, the chances are that you’re not going to be using your walking pad all day long. When you’re not, you need to be able to store it.
That means it needs to be lightweight and compact so that it can be moved, and stored, with ease. Some models will even fold, making storage even easier.
Speed
The majority of under-desk treadmills come with a speed range of between 0.5 mph to 4mph. Bearing in mind that the average adult walks at a pace of 3mph, this range is not going to provide you with the opportunity to get some running in.
There are models out there that allow for speeds up to 12mph. However, as many walking pads don't come with handles, a 12mph blitz may prove to be a little unstable.
Extra Features
Everyone likes features that make life easier. Thankfully our top picks come with additional features that do just that.
You'll find that there are models that come with remote controls. These make it easier to set and control the speed of your walking pad. There are others, that come with raised screens, where you have to adjust everything by hand.
One really significant factor to consider is noise. If you're looking to use your walking pad in an office, or other work environments, it's worth knowing that these can be on the noisy side! You may not be overly popular if you don't think about this when choosing your kit.
It's best to go for one that has a quiet belt as this will avoid noise issues. Also, look out for features such as automatic stop and energy-saving options.
Treadmill vs WalkingPad: Key Differences
Treadmills and WalkingPads are exercise machines designed for walking and running, but they differ in several ways.
The main difference is size and portability. Treadmills are larger and less portable, while WalkingPads are compact and foldable, making them easy to store.
WalkingPads are also more affordable and suitable for low-impact workouts. However, treadmills have more powerful motors, higher maximum speed, and safety features. They are also more expensive and require more maintenance.
When deciding between a traditional treadmill, and a WalkingPad, consider your space limitations, workout needs, and budget.
If you have limited space or need an affordable option, a WalkingPad may be the right choice for you. If you need a more powerful workout with safety features, a treadmill may be a better option.
What Is the Best Speed for Under Desk Treadmill?
The ideal speed for an under desk treadmill depends on your fitness level, goals and personal preferences.
Most under desk treadmills have a maximum speed of around 4 miles per hour (6.4 kilometres per hour), which is a comfortable walking pace for most people. However, some models may have different speed settings, so it's important to check the specifications before making a purchase.
If you're new to under desk treadmills, it's recommended to start at a slower speed and gradually increase it over time. This will help you to build up your fitness level and reduce the risk of injury.
Additionally, it's important to listen to your body and adjust the speed as needed. Ultimately, the best speed for an under desk treadmill is one that allows you to comfortably walk while you work, without causing any discomfort or pain.
Do any Under Desk Treadmills Have Incline?
While most under desk treadmills are designed to be compact and easy to use, they typically do not come with an incline feature. This is because an incline would move user weight and make it more difficult to use the treadmill while working at a desk and may cause injury.
How Often Should you use an Under-Desk Treadmill?
The frequency at which you should use an under-desk treadmill depends on your personal fitness goals and level of physical activity.
Generally, it is recommended to use an under-desk treadmill for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, to achieve the recommended amount of physical activity for optimal health.
However, if you are new to exercise or have a sedentary lifestyle, it is best to start with shorter periods of activity and gradually increase the duration and intensity over time.
It's important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or injuries.
Related: How to Stay Safe Using an Under Desk Treadmill - 5 Safety Tips
Final Thoughts on the Best Under-Desk Treadmill
That’s our look at what we think are the best walking pads on the market. The good news is that there are models to suit a variety of budgets. There are also those that suit people who are just looking to walk, as well as those who want to get moving a little faster. All of these are suitable for use at both home and work, and all of them do the most important thing: they get you moving!