When it comes to daily exercising, the easier and more convenient the better. If it is hard to find time to exercise during the day or you simply need something low impact and easy on the joints, then an under desk exercise bike might be your ideal solution.
These mini-cycles are easy to operate and designed to be used in any office or at home while working, watching TV or playing video games. These pedal exercisers, as they are sometimes called, work to strengthen the arm and leg muscles and can be used from a seated position to comfortably help burn calories while getting your work done.
Below are under desk bike exerciser options that will allow you do to all the aforementioned and more. There are cycles that come with large, easy-to-read LCDs that display distance, time, calories burned and can even keep track of your daily activities all in one place. More basic options are also available for users who want something straightforward and compact. Quiet and portable, these machines also have a smooth pedal motion, so as not to disturb your coworkers or family members, and have multiple levels of resistance for a versatile and challenging workout.
1. DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike
The DeskCycle 2 is an under desk bike that allows you to get exercise while working at your desk, watching TV or any time you are sitting comfortably with your legs free. This exercise cycle features a smooth pedal motion, eight resistance levels, a full-day display that keeps track of the usage time and large pedals with adjustable velcro straps to keep you secured. It is also whisper-quiet and allows you to pedal away without disturbing coworkers or family members.
Pros: This cycle allows you to take advantage of the optional online web apps, including a Fitbit Interface and iPhone App to help keep track of your daily activity.
Cons: The machine operates on magnetic resistance which creates heat when in operation and can make the plastic enclosure hot.
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
Take your workout with you from room to room with the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike. The 21-pound pedal exercise bike fits neatly under most desks and tables and provides a modest workout. A large LCD displays time, speed, distance, calories, an odometer and RPM. Users can set the tension on the bike by choosing from eight workout levels. Safety pedal straps help to keep feet in place on the pedals. Thanks to the magnetic resistance, the Sunny Health emits only minimal noise.
Pros: An ergonomically designed, large molded handle is on the top of the bike to provide an easy carrying solution when it’s time to move the exercise peddler.
Cons: The Sunny Health exercise bike has a maximum weight capacity of 220 pounds and it has a tendency of sliding when used at the max tension level.
3. FitDesk Folding Stationary Exercise Bike Desk
For a desk workout that comes with a seat, we recommend the FitDesk Folding Stationary Exercise Bike Desk. Designed to fit with almost any desk, the FitDesk provides a seat for users who want to work out while working. No cords or power sources are needed to operate the FitDesk, which uses magnetic resistance for a quiet workout. Users can choose from eight levels of tension. The FitDesk is designed for users between 5 feet and over 6 feet tall and also has an option that comes with a built-in desk.
Pros: The FitDesk can slightly fold for a space-saving option when not in use.
Cons: The FitDesk only fits under standing desks or high counters. Users may need to add padding to the seat.
4. Cubii Jr. Seated Under-Desk Elliptical
If a pedaling motion is hard on your joints or if you’re looking for an alternative to under desk bike exercises, we would recommend trying the Cubii Jr. Seated Under-Desk Elliptical. The Cubii Jr. is easy on the joints and still provides a quality workout thanks to eight tension settings. A built-in display monitor shows users their calories burned, distance traveled, RPM and strides. The Cubii Jr. engages the core and works the hip flexors, glutes, quads, hamstrings and calves. Cubii also makes a seated under desk elliptical that has Bluetooth capabilities.
Pros: The Cubii Jr. only requires up to 3 inches of clearance between the knees and the top of the desk.
Cons: The Cubii Jr. has the highest price on our list. Users may need to put down a mat to keep the unit from moving while in use.