Best under-desk treadmills to work out while you’re working

An under-desk treadmill is a great way to keep ourselves fit

best under-desk treadmills

by Bryony Firth-Bernard |
Updated on

For anyone who works from home or spends a lot of time in the house, the best under-desk treadmills are a great way to stay active. Under-desk treadmills, also known as 'walkpads' are a great alternative to a full-sized treadmill as they don't take up as much space but will still help you get the steps in, which is important if you have a pretty sedentary lifestyle. By using one as part of your home workout routine, you can lower the risk of health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. It can also help with forward head posture, caused by hunching over your desk.

Best under-desk treadmills at a glance:

• Best overall under-desk treadmill: Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill – Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best compact under-desk treadmill: JTX MoveLight Walking Treadmill – Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best quiet under-desk treadmill: Rattantree Under Desk Treadmill with Remote Control – Buy now on Debenhams

Just like a mini exercise bike, under-desk treadmills are usually small, compact and lightweight, making them easier to move from desk to desk. Some even have wheels on the bottom or fold up, so that you can easily store them away when not in use. However, unlike a normal home treadmill, they’re designed for slow pacing so that they're suitable to use whilst working, with most models having a speed range from 0.5 up to 4mph.

In order to live a healthy lifestyle we should aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise a week, between four to five days. The nest under-desk treadmills offer a great way to keep this up, especially if you struggle to get out and about. To help you achieve these health goals, we've found the best under-desk treadmills, so that you can keep moving whilst at home, burn calories and improve your cardiovascular fitness.

Best under-desk treadmills 2024

Best overall under-desk treadmill

Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric TreadmillAmazon / GoYouth

This under-desk treadmill comes with everything you want: a sleek design, activity counter, work programmes, a built-in Bluetooth speaker, and wheels underneath for easy transporting and for just under £400. What are the customers saying?

On Amazon UK, this treadmill has garnered an average 4.2/5 star rating, with customers raving about the treadmill's speed and smoothness - with the ability to function at jogging speed and move around. One customer commented that they bought it because it seemed like great value, and are happy with their purchase, working "straight out of the box" with a bit of programme variety.

Any negatives? Well, some customers disagree about performance, quality and noise. So, that's something to be aware of. One customer specified that they found the programme set-up baffling and the start-up noise unnecessarily and incredibly loud - but loved this pick, nevertheless.

It may not come with handlebars, like some of the other models listed, but you’re looking at a decent under-desk treadmill that does everything you want and, more importantly, need. Its top speed is 6kph, while its non-slip running belt makes pacing and light jogging safer on this treadmill.

Pros

  • Decent speed
  • 12 workout programmes
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • Versatile work-out

Cons

  • Some customers found the set-up noise very loud
  • Doesn't come with handlebars
Size: 140 x 68 x 16.5 cm
Max speed:6kph
Treadmill weight:29kg
Max User Weight: Doesn’t specify
  • LED screen
  • Step, distance, speed and calorie counter
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • 12 workout programmes
  • Underneath wheels
  • Multi-layer running belt

Best compact under-desk treadmill

Speed-wise, this JTX Fitness Movelight: Walking Treadmill goes up to 6kph, which is a good pace for some light jogging and it even has wheels underneath for easy manoeuvring. We love that you don’t have to fuss around on the floor with different buttons to get this treadmill going, as it’s controlled with a remote control. Keep track of your speed, calories and activity data via the LED screen.

Customer reviews averaged this JTX Movelight into a 4.8/5 star rating, with customers praising the service, easy setup and safe use. One customer commented that it does everything they need it to do - very quiet with clear instructions and displays. Its eight-piece elastic cushion deck ensures this treadmill is super quiet so that you can remain in full focus while pacing. Any negatives?

One customer did say that it's a little heavier than expected, with the belt rotation not matching gym quality, but finds it a great choice for small spaces and getting your daily steps in. One customer commented that the auto-shut-off is a bit of a nuisance, shutting off and deleting stats quicker than they'd like, whether ending or pausing a workout. Apparently, this is not mentioned in the manual.

Whether you want to do some walking or light jogging whilst working, this treadmill has a compact design so that it can fit snugly under your desk. Worried you’ll be disturbed while working? Don’t be.

Pros

  • Large LED screen for easy viewing
  • Compact, sleek design
  • Low step-on/off safety feature
  • Effortlessly reach your targets

Cons

  • Auto shut-off is a nuisance
  • Heavier than expected
Size:143.2(l) x 54.7(w) x 12.9(h)cm
Max speed: 6kph
Treadmill weight:29.5kg
Max user weight: 100kg
  • Workout programmes: Four training modes
  • Safety features: Low step-on/off
  • LED display
  • Step, distance, speed and calorie counter
  • Easy-to-use remote control
  • Underneath wheels

Best quiet under-desk treadmill

Rattantree Under Desk Treadmill with Remote ControlRattantree / Debenhams
Price: $169.99 (was £249.99)

www.debenhams.com

If you're planning on using an under-desk treadmill while you're working at your desk, you'll want one that isn't going to disturb you too much with the tasks you've got to hand. The Rattantree Under Desk Treadmill with Remote Control is designed to be quieter than most under-desk treadmills as it's got an ultra-quiet motor and a durable steel frame that helps with noise reduction.

From reviews at Debenhams, this under-desk treadmill has an average 4/5 star rating, with most of the reviews leaning towards the 4 or 5-star mark. Many customers found it easy to set up and change the modes, to ensure you're testing speeds before you go for a run. One customer wishes they'd bought one year ago, adding that it's great if you're in a meeting or watching training material. It's compact, great with variable speeds and has a stop option for safety. What about negatives?

A few customers have had small issues/niggles with this model. One customer said that it doesn't quite go fast enough for a proper run, but is great for easy, gentle under-desk use.

It's also got shock absorption to bring you a comfortable running experience. It's got a remote control that you can make the speed faster or slower while running or walking without needing to look at the screen. It's a quiet model, perfect for those of us who need some treadmill convenience.

Pros

  • Wide running area
  • 10kph top speed
  • Wireless remote control
  • Easy to set up

Cons

  • Best for gentle workouts
Size:122 x 49 x 39cm
Max speed:10kph
Treadmill weight:Unknown
Max user weight:110kg
  • Wide running area
  • Wireless smart remote control operation

Best inclined under-desk treadmill

Egofit Walker Pro M1/M1T Under Desk TreadmillAmazon / EgoFit

This under-desk treadmill has a five-degree incline to make your walk or jog, that little bit harder. The Egofit Walker Pro M1/M1T Under Desk Treadmill's walking speed goes up to 5kph however, when you pop up the handrails on the side, it goes up to 6kph. What are the reviews saying?

From Amazon UK, the Egofit Walker Pro picks up an impressive 4.4/5 star rating, from over 100 global reviews. Many customers agree that the appearance, sturdiness and versatility were strong elements that make this treadmill a contender for the top spot. One customer commented that it's a great way to get you moving whilst you work, perfect for a decent cardio workout. It'll get you out of breath. Another review says the easy manoeuvrability is a plus - meaning it can be moved around easily.

As for negatives, most reviews are in the five-star region, so there aren't that many. Some opinions are mixed on noise and mobility. And, you will need a high-standing desk to deal with the incline.

Unlike the other under-desk treadmills, this model can be controlled by your phone via an app, as well as by a remote control (which is handy in case you misplace it). Its silver-red combo has a sporty feel to it and its built-in wheels make it easy to move about. It's great if you're looking for a challenge.

Pros

  • Inclined for a harder walk
  • Sporty design
  • App-controlled

Cons

  • You will need a high-standing desk for an incline
Size:97.5(d) x 101.5(w) x 66.5(h)cm
Max speed:6kph
Treadmill weight:26.5 kg
Max user weight: 100kg
  • Workout programmes: Doesn’t specify
  • Safety features: Safety key
  • 5 degree fixed incline
  • App and remote controlled
  • Foldable safety handlebars with remote control holder
  • Underneath wheels

Best foldable under-desk treadmill

WalkingPad C2 (S1) TreadmillWalking Pad / Amazon

As well as getting you moving on your feet more whilst working, under-desk treadmills are a brilliant piece of fitness equipment to have if you live in a small space. This model in particular is ideal for smaller homes as not only is its design slim and sleek, but it also folds up, making it even smaller when it comes to storage. It's the lightest under-desk treadmill we've listed too, weighing just 25kg, and has wheels underneath so that it's even easier to move. What are the reviews saying?

This WalkingPad C2 (S1) Treadmill has gained a 4.1/5 star rating from over 450 reviews on Amazon. Many customers agree that the portability and performance of this treadmill are the best features. With a small design that is easy to store, this treadmill has been praised for its ease of set-up. One customer commented that it's good to use while working and the various speed settings help them to use it for jogging, as well. They add: that it doesn't take up much space and slips under their desk.

As for negatives, there are a few reviews that say it's a litlenoisy. Despite being small and easy to store, some customers have found it a little heavier than expected. So, if you're not feeling up to lugging it around, be wary. If you're happy to type away or attend meetings with it going, by all means, do it, but be wary of the noise. Some opinions are mixed on the app and remote capabilities.

It doesn't come with any handlebars, so is primarily suitable for walking only as it goes up to 6kph. This treadmill has the option of being controlled from either a remote or an app, that you can download on your phone, and it will keep track of all your important activity data via the LED screen. We also like that it has a lock feature controlled via the app, to stop children from misusing it.

Pros

  • Wheels underneath and fold up for easy storage
  • Child-lock feature in the app
  • Step on/off safety feature

Cons

  • A little heavier than some expected
  • May be too noisy for meetings
Size:82.5 x 51.8 x 13.6 cm
Max speed:6kph
Treadmill weight:25kg
Max user weight:100kg
  • LED screen
  • Step, distance, speed and calorie counter
  • Foldable
  • Wheels underneath
  • Easy-to-use remote control and app
  • Safety features: automatically turns off when you stop walking
  • Child-lock safety feature in the app

Best lightweight under-desk treadmill

With a slim and compact design, wheels for mobility and a weight of 27kg, the Bluefin Fitness Kick Lite Walking Pad will easily store away when you're not training and folds to fit under your desk so you can train while doing your day job. What are the reviews saying?

From a handful of reviews on Amazon, this Bluefin Fitness Kick Lite Pad has earned an impressive 4.7/5 star rating. Customers love how sturdy and easy it is to pack away. One customer said that it's slim, and lightweight for home gyms, which folds down and can be slid under a desk. It comes with a great size walking pad, and is quiet, as well as responsive when adjusting speed to your abilities

However, you'll need to subscribe to a service if you want to use the compatible app, which is said to be a little costly. However, many customers admit it's not essential to the treadmill.

We like that it has a remote to control 15 different training programs during your workout and an LED display so you can monitor the stats of your fitness goals. It is fitted with an auto lubrication system which will create smooth, low-noise performance, plus a cushioning running belt to support a softer and quieter workout experience. It's great if you're looking for something quiet and lightweight.

Pros

  • Speedy and lightweight
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • 15 workout programmes

Cons

  • The app requires a costly subscription, not essential
Size:148.5D x 15.5W x 64.5Hcm
Max speed:8kph
Treadmill weight:27kg
Max user weight:Unknown
  • LCD digital fitness console
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • 15 automatic programs

Recommended under-desk treadmill

The folding treadmill from CITYSPORTS is another one you should consider when looking for an under-desk treadmill. It’s even lighter than the JXT model featured earlier in this list and, again, has wheels underneath so you’ll have no problem moving it around your home. However, the actual size of the treadmill itself is bigger, so just make sure you have enough space to store it. And reviews?

From the reviews on Amazon UK, this CITYSPORTS Treadmill has an average 4/5 star rating. Many customers agree that the quality and value of this product are its standout features. One customer said it's well-built and they are impressed by it, due to the price they paid for it. They add that it's easy and quiet to run and worth investing in for improving 7our health from your home.

However, there are some mixed opinions regarding ease of use, performance and weight. One customer commented that it is decently built and, therefore, is heavy, so don't waste too much energy moving it around. They add that it's best for casual exercisers, not for long, intense workouts.

The silent belt ensures family or colleagues aren’t disturbed while your treadmill is in use, and there’s an LED screen to keep track of your progress, which is controlled via a remote. But what we really like about this treadmill is the frame bars it comes with to provide extra support (just in case you do want to go for a brisk jog). From the reviews, this option feels safe, simple and perfect for gentle walks.

Pros

  • Decent speed variety — goes up to 6kph
  • 12 workout programmes to choose from
  • Comes with safety rails
  • Excellent shock absorption capacity

Cons

  • Rails aren't adjustable
  • Best for casual use
Size: 124.5D x 60.2W x 107.5Hcm
Max speed:12kpm/h
Treadmill weight:25.35kg
Max user weight:109kg
  • Workout programmes: 12
  • Safety features: Doesn’t specify
  • Foldable safety rails
  • Step, distance, speed and calorie counter
  • LED display
  • Remote controlled
  • Underneath wheels

FAQs

What do I need to consider when buying an under-desk treadmill?

Space: Although the best under-desk treadmills are significantly smaller than a regular treadmill, you'll still want to pay attention to its dimensions, shape and whether or not it's foldable (as this will make storing easier). If you're planning to use it underneath your work desk, make sure there's enough room there too.
Speed: The average adult walks at about 3mph. If you’re planning to use your treadmill desk to fit in a couple of walks or light jogs, make sure you pick one that has the speed and stability to support this. Most under-desk treadmills don’t come with handles to hold onto which can make pacey walks and running difficult to do, although some do.
Other features: Some under-desk treadmills can be controlled via remote controls, apps or by hand, so think about how you'd like to control yours. Some models can be quite noisy too, so if you’re working in an office setting you’ll most likely want to choose a model that has a quiet belt. Safety features are another common feature on many under-desk treadmills, with many turning off when you step off of it. If this is an important feature to you, then do keep it in mind whilst shopping for one.
Maximum user weight: Understandably, under-desk treadmills can't manage the same weight as a standard treadmill, as they're significantly smaller. Many models have a maximum weight capacity of 100kg (just over 220 lbs).
Budget: As with every piece of at-home gym equipment, you'll need to consider your budget and how much you're going to use your under-desk treadmill. We're all a bit guilty of rushing to buy the latest thing on our wishlists but then it sits gathering dust after the novelty has worn off. If you're not sure whether you're going to get a lot of use out of a walking pad, you may want to consider a budget treadmill to use under your desk and then upgrading to a better model after you've made the most use out of it.

What are the health benefits of an under-desk treadmill?

As this is a piece of equipment that encourages walking, the benefits will be similar. As a cardiovascular activity, walking is great for increasing blood flow around the body, while lowering our blood pressure. It’s also great for boosting our energy levels too, as it increases the release of endorphins (one of our happy hormones) and is a brilliant physical activity to help us lose weight. Overall, it’s a fantastic activity for our physical health and our mental health, especially when done outdoors in nature.

What are the drawbacks of an under-desk treadmill?

While the best under-desk treadmills can help us stay active whilst we work, it’s important not to forget to still take time away from your screen. As we’ve stated in the above question, walking, outdoors especially, is great for your mental health, so make sure you try to fit some in during those lighter months to get your daily dose of Vitamin D and to contribute towards a healthy mindset.
An under-desk treadmill won't always be for everyone either. If you struggle to multitask, then you may be more prone to tripping whilst on your under-desk treadmill. This could lead to an injury, or you simply may struggle to get work done. Also, if you have any underlying health conditions make sure you check with your GP that it’s safe for you to use one before you start.

woman on treadmill desk

Bryony Firth-Bernard is a Digital Writer, contributing to Yours. On the weekend she loves whipping up new recipes in the kitchen and spending time with her friends and family.

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