Best Under Desk Stepper When You Have to Sit, Moves Feet, Blood Flow in 2020

An under desk stepper, also known as a desk stepper or a mini stepper, is similar to a stair stepper found among exercise equipment in many gyms, but much smaller. Also, an under desk stepper when used while sitting helps your body when you have to sit for long periods. In fact, these machines exercise you feet, calves, thighs and glutes. Also, they help blood circulation in the legs. And, because of the nature of effort needed, they may be more effective that other under desk machines. Finally, when needed, you can also use them while standing.

Why These Steppers are Suited for Use Under a Desk

First and foremost, the steppers, reviewed here, can indeed be used while sitting or working at a desk. Now, a typical desk has a depth of at least 21 inches. And, the steppers reviewed here have a depth ranging from 15 to 17 inches, which is less than 21 inches. Meanwhile, some of the best elliptical trainers, used while sitting, have lengths that are greater than 18 inches and could be as long as 32 inches. Also, the sturdy and stable pedal exercisers have lengths ranging from 22 to 24 inches.

Next, many steppers, such as those reviewed below, allow you to reduce the vertical movement of the footplates which helps their use under a typical desk. On the other hand, typical pedal exercisers have a high vertical profile making them difficult to use under a desk. However, pedal exercisers with a reduced pedaling circle are more likely to work under a desk.

Quick Answer: 5 Best Sitting Steppers For 2020

Table of Contents

5 Best Desk Stepper Reviews

Editor's Choice

2. Sunny NO. 045

Comparison of 5 Best Desk Steppers

A tabular comparison of under desk steppers reviewed below is available to help you make a buy decision.

1. BEOUZO Mini Stepper

BEOUZO Fitness Stair Stepper - Cardio Exercise Trainer - Stepper Twisting Machine - Stepper Exercise Equipment

Benefits

First and foremost, this stepper moves up and down and side to side in a low impact twisting motion that works your calves, thighs, and glutes. Also, the stepper comes with two removable high resistance bands: one for balance and one for versatile use. As a result, you can use this stepper while sitting at a desk, or, standing and/or using the removable resistance bands to tone your chest, shoulder, and arm muscles. By the way, the resistance band’s handles are made of easy to grip foam.

Construction

Now, the body of the stepper is made of high-quality steel.

Dimensions

Next, the stepper is 15.75 inches long, 15.75 inches wide, and 9.45 inches high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

By the way, using the stepper's knob you can increase or decrease the angle and height of the footplate from 5.5 inches to 13.8 inches. For example, loosening the knob decreases the angle and height the foot plate can move. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.

Display

In the meantime, the LCD monitor displays exercise time, step count, total step count, and calories. Furthermore, the scan function sequentially displays all of these measurements.

Footplates

Meanwhile, the stepper's footplates are 14.2 inches long and 5.9 inches wide. Consequently, the footplates will accommodate a broad range of feet and shoes. Also, these non-slip, non-slide textured footplates are made of PVC.

Sliding

In addition, the stepper has skid-resistance floor protectors. Furthermore, it comes with a mat to prevent sliding and scratching the floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard. For example, tightening the knob increases the angle and height of footplate motion, which, in turn increases tension. While, loosening the knob decreases the angle and height of footplate motion, which, in turn, decreases tension. By the way, the hydraulic pistons provide a smooth, cushioning, and quiet workout. So, it’s good for your joints.

Warranty

Meanwhile, this fitness stair stepper comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and a 90-day warranty on parts.

Weight

In addition, the stepper weighs 20.3 pounds, making it possible to lift and move the stepper to storage or other locations.

Weight Limit

Finally, this stepper can be used, in standing mode, by anyone weighing less than 220 pounds.

PROS

2. Sunny NO. 045

Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper - NO. 045

Benefits

The Sunny twist stepper causes your heels to move up and down and side to side in a low impact twisting motion. Meanwhile, the front of your feet do the same motions but to a much lesser degree. Also, the stepper's hydraulic resistance provides a smooth and quiet workout.

Construction

First, the body of the stepper is made out of heavy duty steel.

Dimensions

Next, the stepper is 17 inches long and 19 inches wide. Also, the highest point of a footplate is 14 inches above the floor. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

However, the stepper's height adjustment lever can be used to reduce the vertical movement of the pedals. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.

Display

Next, the stepper's LCD monitor displays exercise duration, step count, total step count, and calories burned.

Footplates

Also, the oversized, slip-resistant foot plates keep you firmly planted during use.

Adjustable Resistance

In addition, the stepper's hydraulic resistance provides a smooth and quiet workout. Furthermore, using the stepper's height adjustment knob to change stepper height also changes its hydraulic resistance.

Warranty

Meanwhile, the stepper comes with a 1 year warranty on the frame and 180 days for parts.

Weight

In addition, the stepper weighs 20 pounds.

Weight Limit

Finally, the weight limit of the stepper is 250 pounds when standing. However, this is not an issue when using it while seated.

PROS

CONS

3. Sunny NO. 012-s

Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper - NO. 012-s

Benefits

Most of all, when used in the standing mode with the resistance bands, the Sunny stepper tightens over 20 different core muscles including your chest, back, shoulders, inner and outer thighs, abs, and obliques. While, simply removing the resistance bands makes the Sunny stepper a desk stepper.

Construction

First, for lasting durability, the body of the Sunny stepper is made out of industrial strength steel.

Dimensions

Next, the stepper is 16 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 13.5 inches high.  So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

However, the stepper's height adjustment lever can be used to reduce the vertical movement of the pedals. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.

Display

Also, the LCD monitor of the stepper displays exercise duration, total step count, steps per minute, and calories. Meanwhile, the scan sequentially displays these exercise measures continuously.

Footplates

Most noteworthy, the stepper has footplates that are wide, textured and have non-slip features. In addition, the stepper's footplates twist side to side.

Pedal Height

Especially relevant, the height adjustment knob adjusts step motion height to give you either short or long steps. Therefore, if you want to use the stepper under a table, use the adjustment knob to lower pedal height.

Adjustable Resistance

Next, the hydraulic resistance of the stepper provides a smooth and quiet workout. Furthermore, using the stepper's height adjustment knob to change pedal height also changes the hydraulic resistance.

Warranty

Meanwhile, the stepper comes with a 1 year warranty on the frame and 180 days for parts.

Weight

In addition, the stepper weighs 14.5 pounds, making it easy to lift and move to storage or anywhere else.

Weight Limit

Finally, the weight limit of the stepper is 220 pounds when standing. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the stepper and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

CONS

4. FootFit

FootFit Sitting Stepper - Seated Leg Exerciser - Calf Exercise Equipment

Benefits

First and foremost, the FootFit sitting stepper is used for improving blood circulation and moving your legs while sitting at a desk, watching TV, or reading a book. Also, it is also good for the elderly with weak joints.

Dimensions

Meanwhile the machine is 15" deep, 11.4" wide, 5.5" high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

Warranty

Also, the stepper comes with a one year warranty. In fact, the manufacturer will replace a defective unit with a new one.

Weight

Finally, the stepper weighs 2 pounds.

PROS

5. EFITMENT

EFITMENT Fitness Stepper Step Machine - S021

Benefits

The EFITMENT stepper's up and down movement tightens and tones calves, gluteal muscles, and hip flexors. Meanwhile, other features of this stepper are described below.

Dimensions

First, the stepper is 17 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 7.5 inches high.  So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

However, the stepper's height adjustment lever can be used to reduce the vertical movement of the pedals. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.

Display

Next, the LCD monitor displays exercise duration, step count, steps per minute, and calories. Meanwhile, the stepper's scan function sequentially rotates and displays these values continuously.

Footplates

Most noteworthy, the stepper's footplates are wide, textured, and non-slip. Consequently, the footplates will accommodate a broad range of feet and shoes.

Pedal Height

Especially relevant, the stepper's pedal height is adjustable. Therefore, adjusting the pedal height, limits vertical pedal movement, which helps you to use the stepper under a table.

Adjustable Resistance

Also, the stepper's hydraulic power provides a smooth and quiet workout. However, the hydraulic resistance is not adjustable.

Warranty

Meanwhile, the EFITMENT fitness stepper comes with a 1 year warranty on the frame and 90 days for parts.

Weight

In addition, the stepper weighs 15 pounds, making it easy to lift and move the stepper to storage or other locations.

Weight Limit

Finally, the weight limit of the stepper is 220 pounds when standing. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the stepper and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

Buyer's Guide for Under Desk Steppers

The desk stepper or sitting step machine is evaluated using the factors described in the following sections.

Construction

First of all, a sitting step machine may be made of heavy-duty alloy or steel. At least the frame should be metal. And, since you are going to push them hard, the footplates should be made from heavy duty plastic or better.

Display

Displays help you keep track of step counts, speed in steps per minute, exercise time, and calories.

Height for use Under a Desk

Pedals or Footplates

Footplates should have a non-slip surface to keep your feet secure and stable. In addition, footplates should be large enough to support your entire foot.

Adjustable Resistance

For the most part, hydraulic cylinders with a piston provide the resistance. Incidentally, a heavy-duty hydraulic cylinder will not overheat after only 10 to 20 minutes of use and will let you exercise for at least 30 minutes or more before it starts to heat up.

Furthermore, you may want to be able to adjust the intensity of your workouts. Indeed, this is likely true when you are using the seated stepper machine for aerobic workouts while standing.

On the other hand, when your predominant need is simply to get your legs moving while sitting, the need to adjust workout intensity is likely not there. As a result, the need to be able to adjust resistance settings or even have the ability to do so, is a decision you may have to make. But it’s an important decision because seated stepper machine either have the capability to adjust resistance or they do not.

Sound

Because a sitting step machine is likely to be used in office environments, it needs to run as quietly as possible.

Sitting Step Machine Size

Meanwhile, the American College of Sports Medicine points out that many sitting step machine users feel uncomfortably restricted by the small size of the sitting step machine. Consequently, the seated stepper machine may not give you the workout you want. But if you like the way the sitting step machine feels or you get used to its compact size, the sitting step machine provides some cardio workout.

Warranty

The longer the warranty period the better you are protected against loss from manufacturing defects. Generally, a 90 day period will cover the majority of manufacturing defects. Since most defects are found in this period, it’s important to ensure your purchase is covered during that time.

Weight Limit

The weight limit is relevant only if you are going to use the mini step machine in the standing position.

What to Look Out for

Most of all the weakest links in the seated stepper machine are the pedals and the hydraulic piston. Obviously misuse can easily damage these components. However, if you only intend to use the seated stepper machine while sitting at home or in the office, they will last a long time. In any case, it’s always a good idea, especially if you later decide to use the sitting step machine for aerobic workouts, to get a good quality sitting step machine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you are looking for essentially an sitting step machine that:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Sitting Stepping Machine?

The desk or sitting step machine is comprised of two independent footplates (also known as pedals) that move up and down. And you use it by stepping or pushing down on the footplates with your feet while sitting down on a chair or couch.

Moreover, some versions of the sitting step machine have handles which help you maintain your balance when you are standing on it. Because the handles are generally not easily removable, a desk stepper with handles can’t be used under a desk. And, even if used while sitting on a couch, the handles become a distraction. Therefore its best to get a desk stepper without the handle if you intend to use it while sitting.

When do You Use a Sitting Stepper?

What's the Difference between Desk and Standing Steppers?

Most of all, to use the standing stepper you use your body weight and push down on the footplates. So, to increase the stepping rate and get a better aerobic exercise you quickly alternate from one footplate to the other. However, avoid bouncing or jumping on the footplates.

On the other hand, with a desk stepper, you have to push down on the footplates with your legs. As a consequence, the pushing action exercises your feet, calves, thighs, and glutes. However, the stepping rate is not as high as with the standing stepper. As a result you burn less calories when you use the desk stepper.

Meanwhile, the desk stepper, frees you to do other work such as reading a book, using your computer or cell phone, making phone calls, watching TV, and listening to music or other audio. On the other hand, other than watching TV, listening to music or other audio, the standing stepper prevents those other activities from being done concurrently.

Also, desk steppers are used to get your legs moving when you have to sit for a long time. Consequently, their use is not the same as when you stand on the steppers to get a cardio workout. Finally, standing on mini steppers without handles require you to be able to balance yourself. This may be a problem for some seniors and the elderly.

What are Sitting Step Machines Used for?

Most of all, a sitting step machine helps mitigate the severe health consequences of regularly sitting for long periods of time.

Hours Spent Sitting

Consequence of Too Much Sitting

In any case, sitting too much is really bad for your health. In fact, prolonged sitting on a regular basis results in health problems such as:

How does the Sitting Step Machine Help?

By providing some cardio workout, a sitting step machine, also known as the seated stair stepper, helps mitigate some of the negative effects of prolonged sitting.

In fact, the repetitive stepping motion of the seated stair stepper mimics climbing. As a result, your heart and lungs work harder thereby providing an aerobic workout for improved cardiovascular health and increased endurance. Also, because the stepper is smaller it is affordable. In addition, the stepper can be easily moved around and stored away when not being used. In fact, the  stepper can be used either at home or in the office.

Is there Proof that a Sitting Stepping Machine Really Helps?

Studies show that physical inactivity and sedentary work environments increases insulin resistance. Moreover, this increase leads to higher risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease. However, a recent study showed that exercising, while sitting, improves the body's insulin response and thereby reduce these risks.

In fact, University of Massachusetts researchers published the study in October 2018 issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. And, the study reported that pedaling while working improves the body’s insulin response. While this study used pedals, a seated stair stepper is simply another way to get an equivalent exercise as the pedals. Consequently, the results of this study also apply to a seated stair stepper.

Meanwhile, the study comprised of six men and six women overweight/obese full-time sedentary office workers. And, these seated participants pedaled for two hours while working at their desks. Incidentally, the participants pedaled at their own pace for as little or as much time as they chose.

Next, after eating a light meal, the participants provided blood samples. The blood samples were used for analysis of metabolic responses of glucose, insulin and free fatty acids. Indeed, glucose, insulin, and free fatty acids are linked to obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

When compared to sedentary behavior, the study showed that pedaling required significantly less insulin to maintain glucose concentrations. Consequently, their insulin levels were lower, which in turn, reduced their risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Consequently, the body doesn’t work so hard to maintain blood glucose and fatty acid levels when pedaling. Best of all, their work output and efficiency were not affected by the pedaling.

Finally, a seated stair stepper is better than treadmill or standing desk because long periods of standing lowers productivity besides being tiring.

What Muscles does the Sitting Stepper Exercise?

Most noteworthy, exercise machines, in general, move your body forward. A seated stair stepper, on the other hand, requires that you move vertically with an up and down motion of the legs. In fact, a stepper works your lower body, toning your legs and hips.

Because your range of motion is limited on the seated stair stepper, your muscles will get some exercise. In fact, the stepper uses the same muscles as you would when you walk or climb stairs. Indeed, the muscles that get exercised include the hip muscles, hamstrings, quadriceps and calf muscles.  And, the more you use the stepper the stronger the muscles become. As a result, with time your leg’s muscular endurance increases. Lastly, to prevent injury or get sore muscles, it’s important to stretch before and after using the stepper.

What are the Benefits of a Sitting Stepper?

The seated stair stepper also helps you in the following ways.

What are the Steps for Using a Sitting Stepper?

Most of all, to use the seated stair stepper, you simply step on the footplates and push down with each foot. Next you move your feet in a stepping or climbing motion. Meanwhile, the adjustable hydraulics  provide resistance as you push down on the footplates.

Warm up

Warm up is pretty straightforward. In fact, start using the seated stair stepper at a slow stepping pace. And keep this up for five minutes or so.

Keep Those Legs Moving

Once you have warmed up, increase the stepping rate to what is possible in your environment. For example, if you happen to be at work and the phone starts ringing, slowing down the stepping rate is natural. On the other hand, if you are surfing the web or doing activities that don’t need your intense concentration, then, yes, speed up your stepping rate to whatever you are comfortable with.

Cool Down

Cooling down shouldn’t interfere with whatever you happen to be doing. For example, if you have to get up and leave the desk or the couch, then go. On the other hand, if you know you have to come to a stop, then slow down your stepping rate for the last five minutes.

Using the Seated Stair Stepper

To use the seated stair stepper, sit up straight close to the edge of the seat. Next position the stepper so that back of the stepper is directly under your knees. In fact, in this position, your shins are nearly vertical to the floor as you push down on the footplates. Lastly, as you use the stepper, your posture should be such that you are not straining your back or knees.

How Long do You Need to Use a Sitting Stepper?

Most of all, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone do at least 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic workouts weekly. Therefore, daily use of a under desk stepper for 30 minutes allows you to meet that target in five days.

In addition, according to the Mayo Clinic, to get the most out of the seated stair stepper, you need to use the stepper for at least 10 minutes. Consequently, three 10 minute sessions throughout the day helps you get the recommended 30 minutes of aerobic workout in a day.

How do Sitting Steppers Compare with Other Desk Exercise Machines?

Most noteworthy, some mini steppers may have resistance cords for an upper body workout. Also, some steppers can be used while sitting or standing. Because the stepping action requires pushing down on the pedals against hydraulic resistance, there is greater stress on the knees. But there is a better muscle workout, especially of the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves.

Meanwhile, desk elliptical machines produces a walking action swinging the lower legs back and forth. Consequently, the joints relax during the exercise. In addition, the desk elliptical machines don’t put too much stress on the legs

Finally, desk pedal exercisers have a greater circular motion of the lower legs and hence more circular movement of the knees than the desk steppers described here.