Best Pedal Exercisers to be Healthy

People spend an extraordinary amount of time sitting each day. Regrettably, too much sitting is not healthy. However, if you must sit, pedal exercisers like the ones described below may help lessen some of the bad effects of sitting. Most noteworthy, these pedal exercisers are specially built for use while sitting to exercise legs. Moreover, some pedal exercisers can also be used on a table to exercise arms.

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Mini Exercise Bike (for Exercising Legs) Reviews

Use

Mini exercise bikes help lessen some of the bad effects of prolonged sitting. Furthermore, these mini exercise bikes are specially built to exercise legs. Moreover, they can be used while sitting at a desk in the office or home, sitting at a table, chair or couch watching TV, or playing video games.

DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser

The most popular DeskCycle has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered DeskCycle comes almost fully assembled. However, the DeskCycle comes with a combination screwdriver and wrench to complete the assembly in short order.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the DeskCycle under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the DeskCycle is 24 inches long, 20 inches wide and 10 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 10 inches above the floor. Consequently, the DeskCycle needs a clearance of 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays speed, time, distance, and calories burned with the touch of a button. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously. Incidentally, the  DeskCycle accumulates time to 1000 minutes, before resetting to zero.

And, for more convenience, a display stand allows you to see your workout data on your desk, instead of having to look at it underneath the desk or table.

Exercise

Most of all, the DeskCycle only exercises your legs.

Pedals

In addition, the DeskCycle has large pedals with adjustable Velcro straps. Meanwhile, the double weighted base keep the straps on top of the pedals, making it easier to insert your feet.

Pedal Movement

Next, the DeskCycle has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Meanwhile the pedal arm is 3.5 inches long. Especially relevant, the pedals use a belt to drive a high inertia flywheel. And, the high inertia flywheel results in smooth pedal rotations. Furthermore, the DeskCycle has 7 sealed hardened-steel bearings for years of maintenance free operation. Most of all, no lubrication needed.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to easily adjust your workout from easy to hard. In fact, the 8 calibrated resistance settings help you keep track of your workout intensities. Furthermore, the magnetic resistance results in quiet pedal rotation.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the DeskCycle comes with a full 1-year warranty on parts, labor, and shipping.

Weight

Finally, the DeskCycle weighs 23 pounds.

DeskCycle-2

Moreover, the DeskCycle-2 has these additional features.

Display

First of all, the DeskCycle-2 accumulates time to 10,000 minutes before resetting to zero. In addition, the LCD also displays revolutions per minute.

Height

Also, adjusting the front leg lets you set the maximum pedal height to either 9 or 10 inches. In fact, the lower pedal height gives you an extra inch of clearance between your knees and the underside of the desk. Consequently, the DeskCycle-2  can be used under desks as low as 27 inches by anyone who is 5’10” or shorter.

PROS

Mini Exercise Bike (for Exercising Legs & Arms) Reviews

Use

Most of all, these mini exercise bikes are specially built to exercise both legs and arms. In fact, they can be used to exercise legs while sitting at a desk in the office or home, sitting at a table, chair or couch watching TV, or playing video games. Or they can be used to exercise arms while sitting at a table or a desk.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike, Gray

The very popular Sunny SF-B0418 mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Sunny SF-B0418 comes almost fully assembled. In fact, only the two pedals and the two feet have to be attached.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Sunny SF-B0418 under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table. 

Dimensions

In addition, the Sunny SF-B0418 is 22 inches long, 18 inches wide and 14 inches high.  Consequently, the Sunny SF-B0418 needs a clearance of 15 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, an easy to read LCD screen displays distance (in miles), calories burned, time pedaled in hours and minutes, current revolutions per minute, and an odometer. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Sunny SF-B0418 exercises your arms and legs.

Handles

Next, the Sunny SF-B0418 has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move it from one place to another. Also, the handle has small finger grooves making it easy to grip the Sunny SF-B0418 while moving it.

Pedals

In addition, the Sunny SF-B0418 has oversized textured non-slip pedals with adjustable large heavy-duty plastic straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle. In addition, the pedals have small finger grooves making it easy to grip them when exercising the arms.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Sunny SF-B0418 has pedals that rotate in only the forward direction. Consequently, if you want to pedal in reverse, turn the Sunny SF-B0418 around. Especially relevant, the pedals use a belt to drive the flywheel. 

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to easily adjust your workout from easy to hard. In fact, 8 calibrated magnetic resistance settings help you keep track of your workout intensities. Furthermore, the magnetic resistance results in quiet pedal rotation.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Sunny SF-B0418 comes with a 1 year warranty for the frame and a 90 day warranty for all other parts.

Weight

Next, the Sunny SF-B0418 weighs only 21 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Sunny SF-B0418 is limited to anyone weighing less than 220 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Sunny SF-B0418 and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

CONS

MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser

The very popular MagneTrainer-ER has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the pedals, front and back support bars have to be attached upon delivery. However, all necessary tools are provided.

Construction

Most noteworthy, MagneTrainer-ER has a sturdy steel frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the MagneTrainer-ER  under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table. Moreover, the MagneTrainer-ER is likely usable under desks with 34 to 36 inches of clearance underneath.

Dimensions

In addition, the MagneTrainer-ER is 15.5 to 20 inches long, 15 inches wide and 18 inches high. However, the highest point of the pedal is 15 inches above the floor. Consequently, the MagneTrainer-ER needs a clearance of 16 inches for use under a desk or table. Also, the wide footprint provides excellent stability. In fact, both legs are over 15 inches wide which helps prevent the MagneTrainer-ER from wobbling.

DIsplay

Especially relevant, the electronic monitor displays speed, distance, time, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the MagneTrainer-ER exercises arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the MagneTrainer-ER has pedals with a non-slip surface and adjustable Velcro straps to grip your feet. Also, the pedals are molded with finger grooves that allow you to firmly grip them for exercising arms.

Pedal Movement

Next, the MagneTrainer-ER has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedals drive the flywheel with wide 4V belts and heavy-duty pulleys. Moreover, the effective 39-pound flywheel helps keep the pedals moving smoothly and quietly.

Tension

Next, the tension knob provides 20 marked levels of magnetic resistance to adjust your workout. Indeed, the 5-rotation knob helps set resistance precisely.

Use

Most noteworthy, the MagneTrainer-ER is used in hospitals, physical therapy offices, nursing homes, assisted living facilities.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the MagneTrainer-ER comes with a full 1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee.

Weight

Finally, the MagneTrainer-ER weighs 23 pounds.

PROS

CONS

Mini Exercise Bike, AGM Digital Under Desk Bike, Pedal Exerciser Foot Cycle Arm & Leg Peddler Machine with LCD Screen Displays（Black）

The AGM pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered AGM pedal exerciser comes almost fully assembled. However, the AGM pedal exerciser comes with tools to attach the pedals and the base.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the AGM pedal exerciser uses metal and ABS plastics.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the AGM pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the AGM pedal exerciser is 15.98 inches long, 13.81 inches wide, and 12.6 inches high. Consequently, the clearance has to be 14 to 15 inches to be able to use the AGM pedal exerciser under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the large LCD screen displays time, distance, speed, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Also, the scan sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the AGM pedal exerciser exercises arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the AGM pedal exerciser's non-slip pedals have adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Sliding

Furthermore, the AGM pedal exerciser has non-slip rubber feet pads that provide stability during use. In addition, the rubber feet won’t scratch the floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the AGM pedal exerciser comes with a 90 days unconditional guarantee.

Weight

Finally, the AGM pedal exerciser, weighs only 8.12 pounds.

CONS

Folding Pedal Reviews

Use

Most of all, these folding pedals are specially built to exercise both legs and arms. In fact, they can be used to exercise legs while sitting at a desk in the office or home, sitting at a table, chair or couch watching TV, or playing video games. Or they can be used to exercise arms while sitting at a table or a desk. Best of all, they are easily folded, making them easy to move and store.

Stamina 15-0125 InStride Folding Cycle

The very popular Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser is fully assembled and ready for use.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Stamina 15-0125 has a durable steel tubular frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser is 19 inches long and 15.25 inches wide. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 12.25 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, LCD displays workout time.

Exercise

Most of all, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser is foldable for easy storage. In fact, simply unscrew the tension knob and fold the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser.

Pedals

In addition, the Stamina 15-0125's textured pedals have foot straps holding feet firmly to the pedals. In fact, the textured pedals help prevent feet from slipping on the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedal movements are quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser has non-slip rubber feet that work well on carpets or floor mats.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser comes with a 90-day warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser, weighs only 6.2 pounds.

PROS

CONS

AdirMed Digital Foldable Mini Floor Foot Pedal Exerciser Leg Machine - Under Desk Exerciser - Fully Assembled No Tools Required

The very popular AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser is fully assembled and ready for use.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has a durable chrome frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser is 18 inches long and 14 inches wide. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 13.5 inches above the floor. Consequently, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 15 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays workout time, count of revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser folds for easy storage.

Pedals

In addition, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser's pedals have non-adjustable foot straps holding feet firmly to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedal movements are quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has four anti-slip rubber pads on the two legs to prevent sliding while also protecting the floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has NO warranty.

Weight

Finally, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser, weighs 7 pounds.

CONS

Elderly Pedal Reviews

Use

These elderly pedals are specially built so that the elderly and seniors can exercise their legs and arms. In fact, they can be used to exercise legs while sitting at a desk, table, chair or couch watching TV, playing video games, or reading. Or they can be used to exercise arms while sitting at a table or a desk. Best of all, being lightweight, they are easy to move and store.

Vive Desk Cycle - Foot Pedal Exerciser - Foldable Portable Foot, Hand, Arm, Leg Exercise Pedaling Machine - Folding Mini Stationary Bike Pedaler, Fitness Rehab Gym Equipment for Seniors, Elderly, PT

The most popular Vive Desk Cycle has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Vive Desk Cycle comes almost fully assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to screw in the tension knob.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Vive Desk Cycle under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Vive Desk Cycle is 19 inches long, 14.5 inches wide and 9 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 12 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Vive Desk Cycle needs a clearance of 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, a large, easy to read LCD screen displays, with the touch of a button, revolutions per minute, time, speed and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Vive Desk Cycle exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Vive Desk Cycle is easily folded for storage. As a result, the Vive Desk Cycle doesn't take up floor space when not in use.

Pedals

In addition, the Vive Desk Cycle has four inch wide pedals with a non-slip surface and adjustable toe loops to help keep your feet in place as you peddle.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Vive Desk Cycle has non-slip, non-marking feet that ensure it stays in place while being used on hard floors, carpets, and table tops. And the low profile prevents the Vive Desk Cycle from wobbling and sliding.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance, thereby making it easy to adjust your workouts from easy to hard.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Vive Desk Cycle comes with a one year manufacturer's guarantee.

Finally, the Vive Desk Cycle weighs only 5.15 pounds.

PROS

B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser - Under Desk Exercise Machine - Arm & Leg Exercise Peddler - Folding Low Impact Exercise Bike for Seniors and Elderly

The very popular B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser comes almost fully assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to insert a tightening screw.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has a triple-layered chrome-plated steel frame, which provides stability and lifetime durability. In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser is powder coated. As a result, the surface will be more resistant against scratches, chipping, wear, and fading as compared to other type of finishes.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser is 19.6 inches long, 14.5 inches wide and 9 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 13.5 inches above the floor. Consequently, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, an easy to read LCD screen displays, with the touch of a button, revolutions per minute, time, speed, distance, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser is easily folded for storage. As a result, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser doesn't take up floor space when not in use. Especially relevant, the folded size is 14.8 inches long, 14.5 inches wide, and 8 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has 4 inch wide pedals with adjustable toe loops to help keep your feet in place as you peddle.

Sliding

Furthermore, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has anti-slip, triangular rubber pads that protect the surface and ensures it stays in place while being used on hard floors, carpets, and table tops. In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser can be tied to a chair by fixing straps so that the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser doesn't slide away while being used.

Tension

Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser comes with a one year manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser, weighs only 6.6 pounds.

PROS

Medical Pedal Reviews

Use

These medical pedal exercisers are used for physical therapy of the arms, elbows, shoulders, legs, knees following surgery or injury. In fact, medical pedals provide a gentle low impact exercise for toning muscles during physiotherapy. Incidentally, medical pedals are not designed for regular or heavy workouts. Moreover, they can be used to exercise legs while sitting at a desk, table, chair or couch watching TV, playing video games, or reading. Or they can be used to exercise arms while sitting at a table or a desk.

Who would Benefit from these Pedals?

TODO Pedal Exerciser Medical Peddler for Leg Arm and Knee Recovery Exercise with LCD Monitor

Most of all, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler requires a few minutes to complete assembly.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler has a reinforced steel (also known as steel bars) frame. In addition, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler uses a 5-pound steel flywheel.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimension

In addition, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler is 16 inches long, 13.8 inches wide, and 12.6 inches high. Consequently, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, revolutions, total revolutions, distance, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler exercises both arms and legs.

Feet

Next, the anti-scuff rubber feet will not scratch the surface such as floor, table top, or desk top.

Pedals

In addition, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler's pedals have non-slip surface with molded finger grips. Indeed, the molded finger grips help the hands grip pedals while exercising arms. Also, the pedals have adjustable toe loops for holding the feet.

Pedal Movement

Next, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler's pedal movement is smooth and quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler can be tied to a chair by straps so that the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler doesn't slide away.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Use

Most noteworthy, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler is designed for recovery of legs, arms, and knees.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler weighs 13 pounds. While it is heavier than several of the others described here, it is still lightweight and easy to move from one place to another.

PROS

CONS

MOMODA Medical Exercise Bike Foot Peddler for Leg and Arm Recovery

Most of all, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has the following features.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has a reinforced steel pipes and ABS plastic frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Momoda medical exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimension

In addition, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is 20.9 inches long and 14.2 inches wide. Furthermore, the highest height the pedal reaches is 13 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike needs a clearance of 15 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, count of revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Also, the scan sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the folded size of the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is 12.6 inches long, 14.2 inches wide, and 6.7 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike's pedals have adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals. Furthermore, thermal insulation foam wrapped on pedal cranks helps prevent scalding from heated cranks.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedal motion is smooth and quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has large anti-slip rubber feet to prevent bike from sliding on smooth floors. However, it does slide on carpets. Therefore, a strap is provided to tie the Momoda bike to a chair so it doesn’t slide away.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. However, the tension or resistance is low because the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is meant for use as a medical exerciser.

Use

Most noteworthy, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is designed for recovery of the knees and shoulders.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Finally, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike, weighing only 7 pounds, is very light.

PROS

Motorized Pedal Reviews

Use

Above all, the incapacitated, who cannot or have difficulty moving their arms or legs, use these motorized pedals to exercise their arms or legs. In fact, motorized pedals provide a gentle low impact exercise for toning arm and leg muscles. Moreover, they can be used to exercise legs while sitting at a desk, table, chair or couch watching TV, playing video games, or reading. Or they can be used to exercise arms while sitting at a table or a desk. Incidentally, these motorized pedals are not designed for regular or heavy workouts. 

Exerpeutic 7101 Active Cycle Mini Exercise Bike

The Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, no assembly is required. In fact, the Exerpeutic 7101 is ready to be used upon delivery.

Construction

Next, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal has a durable steel frame.

Controller

Most noteworthy, a cable connects the hand-held controller to the machine. Furthermore, the hand-held controller adjusts the pedal's speed.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal is 16 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 13 inches high. Consequently, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal need a clearance of at least 14 inches for use under a desk or table. Moreover, it's compact size makes it easy to move around and store.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, distance, speed, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal can be used to exercise both arms and legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Handles

Next, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedals have a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Manual Operation

Most noteworthy, for higher resistance exercising, turn off the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal's motor.

Motor

The motor's speed is adjustable. In addition, the lowest speed is 26 revolutions per minute. Meanwhile, the motor operates on a standard 120 volt power supply. Furthermore, when the motor is running, hand or feet should not be used to forcibly move pedals.

Noise

Also, the direct current motor drive results in a quiet workout.

Pedals

The Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal's foldable pedals have adjustable straps to prevent feet from slipping while pedaling. In addition, the pedals can be used by both hands and feet.

Pedal Movement

While the pedals only move in the forward direction, you can turn the pedal exerciser around to exercise using the backwards or reverse pedal movement. In addition, because they are driven by a motor, the pedal motion is consistent.

Sliding

Furthermore, a non-skid floor mat is provided to prevent skidding on smooth floors.

Warranty

Most of all, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Also, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal weighs 12.5 pounds, making it convenient to move around.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the weight capacity of the Exerpeutic 7101 is 250 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the motor, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

PROS

CONS

Sunny Health & Fitness EZ Stride Motorized Auto Assisted Under Desk Elliptical Peddler Exerciser - SF-E3626

The Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, no assembly is required. The Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is ready to be used upon delivery.

Controller

Most noteworthy, the controller is located on the machine and is used to set either auto or manual mode of operation. Furthermore, in auto mode, the controller is used to set 3 speed settings: low, middle, and high. While, in manual mode the controller lets you set 3 levels of resistance: low, medium, high. Finally, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is automatically shut off when machine has been idle over 30 minutes.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is 20 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 10.5 inches high. Consequently, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal needs a clearance of 12 inches for use under a desk or table. And, because the Sunny exerciser takes up more area, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal provides more stability.

Display

Especially relevant, the digital LED displays step counts.

Exercise

Most of all, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal exercises only the legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Handles

Next, theSunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Manual Operation

Most noteworthy, for manual use, turn off the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal's motor.

Motor

The motor operates on a standard 120 volt power supply.

Pedals

Most of all, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal has large textured anti-slip foot pedals and no straps are needed.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal can rotate the pedals in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, a rubberized non-skid floor mat is provided to prevent skidding on smooth floors.

Warranty

Most of all, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Weight

Also, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal weighs 16.5 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the weight capacity of the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is 220 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the motor, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

PROS

CONS

Video Showing Pedals in Use

How do you Evaluate these Machines?

In fact, use the factors described below to grade these pedal exercisers and mini exercise bikes.

Assembly

First, assembling the pedal exerciser should be easy. In fact, the less assembly required, the better.

Construction

Next, a pedal exerciser made of heavy-duty alloys or steel is preferable. At least the frame must be metal. And, since you may push them hard, the pedals need to be made from heavy duty plastic such as ABS or better. Indeed, the more solid the construction, the longer the pedal exerciser will last, and more stable it will be.

Controller

Most noteworthy, a cabled or remote controller allows you to adjust speed of a motorized pedal exerciser. Consequently, you don't need to bend down to the exerciser to adjust the speed or start and stop the motor.

Dimensions or Footprint

Most of all, the dimensions or footprint tells you how much space the pedal exerciser is going to need, so you can decide if the pedal exerciser is going to fit where you intend to use it.

Display

Displays help you keep track of your workouts. Example of workout measurements include revolutions, time, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Moreover, you use this information to monitor your progress over time, or simply to ensure you met your daily target.

Exercise

Most of all, a pedal exerciser exercising both arms and legs gives you more options.

Feet

Most of all, the feet are generally made from heavy duty rubber or other similar material to protect the floor and/or the table from scratches and marks. Also, the feet help prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding as you pedal. Indeed, nearly all pedal exercisers are lightweight weighing less than 26 pounds. In addition, most people try to use the pedals as they would a recumbent bike – namely by pushing the pedals away from you. This pushing action is a consequence of the chair being behind the pedal exerciser – as with a recumbent bike. Moreover, this pushing action pushes the pedal exerciser away from you. So instead of pushing on the pedals, push the pedals down towards the floor. Consequently, the pedal exerciser may stay in place as you peddle.

Especially relevant, several pedal exercisers provide straps to tie the pedal exercise to the chair. On the other hand, if you choose one without the straps, there are ways to prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding.

Foldability

Next, foldability refers to the ability of the pedal exerciser to be folded so that it's footprint is reduced. Consequently, the pedal exercisers are easier to move and store.

Handle

A handle makes it easier to move the pedal exerciser around with one hand.

Height

If the pedal exerciser is going to be used under a desk, you need to measure the distance between the top of your knee, when sitting on a chair, and the floor with your shoes on. Next you need to measure the highest point the top of the pedal reaches above the floor. Next, the sum of these two numbers needs to be less than the distance between the underside of the table or desk top and the floor.

Motor

Especially relevant, if present, the motor is used to drive the pedals. Consequently, a motor with adjustable speed gives you different workout intensities. Meanwhile, in the United States, the motor should operate on a standard 120 volt power supply.

Noise

Because the pedal exercisers are likely to be used in office environments or while watching TV or reading a book, they need to run as quietly as possible. Most of all, pedal exercisers using magnetic resistance run quieter. On the other hand, pedal exercisers that use friction for resistance tend to be noisy. To reduce this noise, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Pedals

Most of all, to drive the pedals with your feet, the pedals need to be non-slip or else your feet will not grip the pedals. In addition, pedal straps help grab your feet to the pedal. Moreover, the pedal straps need to be adjustable to accommodate various shoe sizes.

Sliding

Next, it's important that the pedal exerciser does not move on the floor as you use the exerciser. In fact, pedal exercisers are used on carpets, mats, solid and smooth floors. Some of the ways, sliding is minimized include feet design, pedal exerciser weight, and straps holding the pedal exerciser to the chair.

Tension

Tension is sometimes referred to as resistance. And, nearly all pedal exercisers provide the capability to adjust tension so that you can change your workout intensity. However, not all pedal exercisers provide markers that allow you to easily identify tension levels. Furthermore, such markers help you record tension levels of your workouts. And these markers are especially important, if the pedal exerciser is used by others.

Most noteworthy, tension based on friction will cause metal parts in the vicinity to heat up. Pedal exercisers that offer protection from contact with the heated parts are better than those which don’t. Furthermore, depending on the pedal speed, and the length of time pedaling, heating could start to be felt as soon as 15 minutes after starting. However, if you are pedaling slowly, heat from friction likely won’t be an issue. Be that as it may, you can reduce the build up of heat by lubricating. In fact, to lubricate, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Transportation

Because the pedal exercisers are used under the desk, in front of a couch, on a table, among other places, being lightweight becomes an advantage in terms of moving it from one location to another.

Use

In addition, manufacturers design pedal exercisers for different use. So, you want to look at pedal exercisers targeted to your need. For example, some pedal exercisers are designed for the handicapped, some for beginners. While others are designed for strengthening your arms and legs or used under a desk, while in the office or at home.

Warranty

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

Weight

Next, pedal exercisers that weigh less are easier to carry around. On the other hand, heavier pedal exercisers offer more stability.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the weight capacity refers to the maximum weight of the person for which the pedal exerciser is designed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you are looking for essentially a pedal exerciser that:

What are Your Needs?

First and foremost, itemize what you want from a pedal exerciser. For example, the list below gives you a start.

Indeed, answers to these questions and others will help guide you to the pedal exerciser that's best for you.

What Problems do these Machines Solve?

Hours Spent Sitting

According to the 2017 American time use survey by Bureau of Labor Statistics, part of the average American’s time each day is spent as follows:

For the most part, all these activities involve sitting. As a result, the average American spends 8.43 hours each day sitting.  Most noteworthy, this number is consistent with other surveys and studies on sitting.

Consequences of Too Much Sitting

Especially relevant, prolonged sitting on a regular basis results in health problems such as:

But most of all, prolonged sitting effects muscles in the arms and the lower body.

Effect of Sitting on Arm Muscles

The major muscle groups in the arms are:

All these arm muscles are affected by sitting too much. In fact, the triceps are a common area for fat deposits, meaning you’re most likely to notice excess, flabby skin in this area.

Effect of Sitting on Lower Body Muscles

The legs contain the most muscle groups in your body. Too much sitting causes the quads, hamstrings, and calves to change. In fact, these muscles become less toned as the muscles get smaller and less defined. Indeed, the effects are first seen on your upper legs and hips, where fat deposits are common. These changes are largely because fat in this area tends to be less metabolically active than fat in other areas of the body.

Next, the buttocks are made up of three major muscle groups: the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus. Too much sitting causes these muscles to soften and become undefined, leaving the butt looking flat and misshapen. Moreover, as these muscles lose their tone, you may have difficulty maintaining good balance.

That’s where pedal exercisers help. In fact, pedal exercisers are used to exercise legs while working at a desk. Furthermore, pedal exercisers are used when sitting in a chair to exercise arms and legs.

How do these Machines Solve the Problems?

How much does Physical Activity Help?

First and foremost, a study was published in the March 21 2019 edition of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. In fact, the study looked at 14 years of activity and inactivity data of 92,500 people. Meanwhile, one study group consisted of participants who were least active with less than 17 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. And, the study found that if these participants replaced just 30 minutes of sitting with light activity, their risk of premature death falls by 14 percent. On the other hand, if these participants replaced 30 minutes of sitting with moderate to vigorous physical activity, their risk of premature death fell by an even larger 45 percent.

Is there Proof that Using Pedal Exercisers Really Helps Your Body?

First and foremost, many studies show that physical inactivity and sedentary work environments increases insulin resistance. Moreover, this increase in insulin resistance leads to higher risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Incidentally, University of Massachusetts researchers published a study in October 2018 issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Indeed, the study reported that pedaling while working improves the body’s insulin response.

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, pedaling is better than treadmill or standing desk because long periods of standing lowers productivity besides being tiring.

Exercising Leg Muscles

Leg muscles are exercised by pedal exercisers. In fact, the exerciser is set on the floor with you sitting in a chair behind it. Furthermore, in this mode, the exerciser is used to strengthen and tone legs. Especially relevant, the muscles exercised include the hips flexors, glutes, calves, hamstrings and quadriceps.

Exercising Arm Muscles

Meanwhile, some pedal exercisers are used for exercising arms. In fact, the pedal exerciser is placed on a table while you are sitting in a chair. Furthermore, in this mode, the pedal exerciser is used to strengthen and tone arms. Especially relevant, the muscles exercised include the biceps, triceps, shoulders and forearms.

Other Health Benefits

Most of all, pedal exercisers provide the following benefits:

Only some pedal exercisers help strengthen and tone arms. In fact, these pedal exercisers exercises biceps, triceps, shoulders and forearms.

How are these Machines Used?

The Wrong Way

First and foremost, a pedal exerciser shouldn’t be used like a recumbent bike. Most noteworthy, when you use a recumbent bike, because the seat is somewhat away from the pedals, you end up pushing the pedals forward. So, if you do this with the pedal exerciser too far away from your chair, the pedal exerciser will either slide or tilt forward.

The Correct Way

Therefore, keep the pedal exerciser closer to the chair. And, don’t start pedaling until the pedal arm is in the 1 o’clock position. At that time, push the pedals downward towards the floor. And, make sure your toes are pointing forward not upwards. Consequently, you can pedal downward even when you are sitting on a low chair or couch. Moreover, when you are sitting in a low chair or couch, you work both the quads and the hamstrings.

Also, by starting at very little resistance you can learn the correct way to pedal. Most of all, focus on pedaling downwards. In addition, pedal for at least 15 minutes at very little resistance. Next, increase the resistance a little and pedal for another 15 minutes. And, repeat this sequence until you reach a resistance where you are comfortable pedaling.

Lower Body Workout

First, place pedal exerciser underneath your desk, or on the floor in front of a couch or chair. And do 20 minutes of pedaling with no resistance. Next, increase resistance and do another 20 minutes. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Arm Exercises

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, changing the resistance to make it somewhat of an effort. And do this for 15 minutes. Next, change direction and rotate pedals backwards for another 15 minutes. Repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretch Arm Muscles

Firstly, to stretch arm muscles, put elbow on the table with your arm bent, while keeping the other arm free. Secondly, position the top of your hand so that it is touching the pedal and grasp the pedals with fingers. Thirdly, starting with no resistance, slowly push down on the pedal. Next, pull the pedal back up. And, repeat with the other arm. Next, increase resistance and repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Strengthen Upper Body Muscles

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, starting at zero resistance And, do this for 10 minutes. Next, gradually increase time and resistance. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Knee Injury

Most of all, you can use the pedal exerciser to increase flexibility of muscles surrounding your injured knee. Firstly, sit in a firm but comfortable chair to stabilize your back. Secondly, place the pedal exerciser in front of you. Thirdly, place your feet on the pedals and slowly pedal with zero resistance. Next, gradually increase time and resistance and repeat, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretching Injured Knee

Finally, the pedal exerciser can be used as a stretching machine. Firstly, slide feet of the leg with injured knee in the pedal next to the floor. Secondly, rotate pedal to the highest height using the leg with injured knee. And hold that position. Next, gently push pedal back down and pull back up. And, repeat this sequence for 5 cycles.

Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

Comparison with Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

First and foremost, under desk pedals have a circular motion of the lower legs and hence more circular movement of the knees. In addition, under desk pedals exercise glutes, quads, hamstrings, and to a lesser extent the calves.

Meanwhile, the stepping action of sitting steppers requires pushing down on the pedals against hydraulic resistance. As a result, there is greater stress on the knees. But a better lower leg muscle workout, especially of the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves.

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

Links to Other Under Desk Pedal Exercisers

Folding Pedal Review - Best Folding Pedal Exerciser to be Healthy

Medical Pedal Review - Best Medical Pedal Exerciser to be Strong

Elderly Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exerciser for the Elderly to be Healthy

Motorized Pedal Review - Best Motorized Pedal Exerciser for Incapacitated to be Strong

Under Desk Pedal Review - Best Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise Bikes to be Healthy

Links to Under Desk Steppers

Best Under Desk Stepper When You Have to Sit

Links to Under Desk Ellipticals

Best Under Desk Elliptical to be Healthy

Best Under Desk Elliptical to be Healthy

People spend an extraordinary amount of time sitting each day. Regrettably, too much sitting is not healthy. However, if you must sit, under desk elliptical machines and mini ellipticals may help lessen some of the bad effects of sitting. Most noteworthy, these under desk ellipticals and mini ellipticals are specially built for use while sitting to exercise legs. Moreover, some mini ellipticals can also be used while standing.

Quick Navigation to Content Sections

Under Desk Mini Elliptical Machine Reviews

Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer

Most noteworthy, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer, which comes in three colors (green, orange, and silver), has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Stamina In-Motion elliptical is almost completely assembled. In fact, the only additional assembly is to attach the footrests and the base.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical has a sturdy steel frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer is 24.5 inches long, 17 inches wide, and 11.38 inches high. Consequently, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer needs a clearance of 12 to 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, total strides, number of strides per minute, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer exercises the legs.

Noise

Because the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer is quiet and not intrusive, it is suited for use in the office.

Pedals

In addition, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer has pedals with a textured surface that secure your feet so that you can pedal as hard and fast as you want.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. In addition, the pedal movement is smooth and quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer works on carpets, mats, and smooth surfaces.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust the resistance and thereby the intensity of your workout.

Use

Because the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer provides a passive, low-attention exercise that promotes leg movement and improves circulation, it’s great for gamers. Also, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer can be used either sitting or standing.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer comes with one-year warranty on the frame and a 90-day warranty on parts.

Weight

Next, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer weighs 24 pounds. Because the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer is compact and lightweight, it is easy to take it to the office or move it around the house.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer is limited to anyone weighing less than 250 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Stamina In-Motion elliptical trainer and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

Cubii Jr: Desk Elliptical with Built in Display Monitor, Easy Assembly, Adjustable Resistance, Quiet & Compact

Most noteworthy, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Cubii Jr desk elliptical is almost completely assembled. In fact, only four screws are used to complete the assembly.

Construction

Next, the Cubii Jr is built to last.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Cubii Jr desk elliptical under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical is 23 inches long, 17.5 inches wide, and 10 inches high. Consequently, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical needs a clearance of 11 to 12 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the built-in monitor displays exercise time, strides, revolutions per minute, distance in miles, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical exercises the legs. In fact, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical exercises your:

Moreover, the Cubii Jr also helps your posture.

Handles

Next, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Noise

Because the Cubii Jr desk elliptical is whisper quiet (like the sound of a small fan) with a smooth gliding motion, it is suited for use in the office.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. In addition, the pedal movement is smooth and quiet. Furthermore, the Cubii Jr uses a magnetic drive system which mimics the motion of a full sized elliptical. Meanwhile, the Cubii Jr is very stable when in use.

Sliding

Furthermore, Cubii Jr desk elliptical does slide on smooth surfaces. While, the mat that you can buy with the Cubii Jr may not solve the sliding problem, a yoga mat does.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to set 8 levels of magnetic resistance and thereby adjust the intensity of your workout.

Use

Also, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical gives you a low impact exercise that doesn’t stress your joints. Moreover, the Cubii Jr can only be used while in a sitting position. In addition, the Cubii Jr can be used under a desk or table. Also, it can be used while sitting in a chair or couch. Lastly, the Cubii Jr comes with coasters so that it can be used with swivel chairs. In fact, the wheels go in the coasters to keep the chair steady.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical comes with a standard warranty. However, you can choose to additionally get either a 2-year or a 5-year protection plan. In addition, you get a lifetime warranty if you purchase it from Fitness Cubed on Amazon or directly from their website.

Weight

Next, the Cubii Jr desk elliptical weighs about 27 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, there is no limitations on the weight of the user.

PROS

Cubii Pro Desk Elliptical, Bluetooth Enabled, Sync with Fitbit and HealthKit, Adjustable Resistance, Easy Assembly

Most noteworthy, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Cubii Pro desk elliptical is almost completely assembled. In fact, only four screws are used to complete the assembly.

Construction

Next, the Cubii Pro is built to last.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Cubii Pro desk elliptical under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical is 23 inches long, 17.6 inches wide, and 9 inches high. Consequently, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical needs a clearance of 10 to 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, because the Cubii Pro is Bluetooth enabled, all the workout data (time in minutes, strides, revolutions per minute, distance in miles, and calories burned) is synchronized with iPhones, Android cellphones, Fitbit smart bands, and Apple’s Health Kit.

Exercise

Most of all, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical exercises the legs. In fact, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical exercises your:

Moreover, the Cubii Pro also helps your posture.

Handles

Next, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Noise

Because the Cubii Pro desk elliptical is whisper quiet (like the sound of a small fan) with a smooth gliding motion, it is suited for use in the office.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. In addition, the pedal movement is smooth and quiet. Furthermore, the Cubii Pro uses a magnetic drive system which mimics the motion of a full sized elliptical. Meanwhile, the Cubii Pro is very stable when in use.

Furthermore, Cubii Pro desk elliptical does slide on smooth surfaces. While, the mat that you can buy with the Cubii Pro may not solve the sliding problem, a yoga mat does.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to set 8 levels of magnetic resistance and thereby adjust the intensity of your workout.

Use

Also, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical gives you a low impact workout that doesn’t stress your joints. Moreover, the Cubii Pro can only be used while in a sitting position. In addition, the Cubii Pro can be used under a desk or table. Also, it can be used while sitting in a chair or couch. Lastly, the Cubii Pro comes with coasters so that it can be used with swivel chairs. In fact, the wheels go in the coasters to keep the chair steady.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical comes with standard one-year warranty.

Weight

Next, the Cubii Pro desk elliptical weighs about 27 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, there is no limitations on the weight of the user.

PROS

ANCHEER Desk Elliptical w/Built in Display Monitor, Quiet & Compact, Electric Elliptical Machine Trainer

Most noteworthy, the electrically powered ANCHEER desk elliptical has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered ANCHEER desk elliptical is ready to use upon delivery.

Construction

Next, the ANCHEER desk elliptical is sturdy.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the ANCHEER desk elliptical under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the ANCHEER desk elliptical is 18 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 10 inches high. Consequently, the ANCHEER desk elliptical needs a clearance of 11 to 12 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the built-in LED monitor displays exercise time, strides, speed, distance, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan function sequentially displays the workout data continuously. Finally, the remote control makes it easy to manage the ANCHEER desk elliptical.

Most of all, the ANCHEER desk elliptical improves body flexibility, muscle strength, strengthens and tones both arms and legs. In addition, the ANCHEER desk elliptical improves blood circulation, cardiovascular functions and improve coordination of arms and legs. Furthermore, the ANCHEER desk elliptical provides low impact leg workouts without stressing your joints.

Handles

Next, the ANCHEER desk elliptical has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Motor

Especially relevant, the ANCHEER desk elliptical’s motor requires a 110-volt power supply and uses 50 watts.

Noise

Because the ANCHEER desk elliptical is whisper quiet (like the sound of a small fan) with a smooth gliding motion, it is suited for use in the office.

Pedals

In addition, the ANCHEER desk elliptical has large 14 inches by 6 inches textured anti-slip foot pedals. Also, these pedals can be used by both hands and feet. Furthermore, the textured pedals are designed to give a massage.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, the ANCHEER desk elliptical has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, pedals can be moved either manually or by a powered motor. Meanwhile, five pedal rotation speeds are available in manual operation. While three pedal rotation speeds are available in powered mode. In addition, the pedal movement is smooth and quiet. Furthermore, the pedals move with the use of sturdy and flexible wheels that combined with a strong base, gives you a smooth experience.

Sliding

Furthermore, the ANCHEER desk elliptical is stable on both hard floors as well as carpets.

Tension

Next, the intensity of your workouts is controlled by the speed.

Use

Most of all, the ANCHEER desk elliptical provides both manual and electrically powered motor workouts. However, the ANCHEER desk elliptical can only be used from a sitting position. In addition, the ANCHEER desk elliptical can be used under a desk or table. Also, it can be used while sitting in a chair or couch. Lastly, the ANCHEER desk elliptical is perfect for rehabilitation following surgery or injury.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the ANCHEER desk elliptical comes with a standard one-year warranty.

Weight

Next, the ANCHEER desk elliptical weighs about 15 pounds.

Finally, there is no limitations on the weight of the user.

PROS

FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White

Most noteworthy, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White uses a fluid, natural forward and backward elliptical motion, like the motion found in larger elliptical machines. Meanwhile, the other features of the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White are described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White requires some assembly upon delivery.

Also, to use the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White is 30 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 10 inches high. However, the pedals reach a high of only 8 inches above the floor. Consequently, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White needs a clearance of 9 to 10 inches for use under a desk or table. In fact, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical may be usable with desks as low as 25 inches.

Display

Especially relevant, the built-in LED monitor displays exercise time, distance, total distance, speed, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan function sequentially displays the workout data continuously.

And, for more convenience, an optional display stand allows you to see your workout data on your desk, instead of having to look at it underneath the desk or table.

Pedals

In addition, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White has 13.5 inches long and 5.6 inches wide foot pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Especially relevant, the balanced high velocity flywheel keeps the pedal motion smooth and whisper quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White does not slide on carpets or mats. However, while it does slide on hardwood floors, using a mat solves the problem.

Tension

Next, the tension, that can be changed by a foot shifter, allows you to set 8 levels of magnetic resistance and thereby adjust the intensity of your workout.

Use

However, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White can only be used from a sitting position.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White comes with six-month warranty.

Weight

Finally, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical White weighs 31 pounds.

PROS

CONS

FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical

Most noteworthy, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical uses a fluid, natural forward and backward elliptical motion, like the motion found in larger elliptical machines. Meanwhile, the other features of the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical are described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical requires some assembly upon delivery.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical has a sturdy steel frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the FitDesk Elliptical under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical is 32 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 12 inches high. However, the pedals reach a high of only 8 inches above the floor. Consequently, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical needs a clearance of 9 to 10 inches for use under a desk or table. In fact, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical may be usable with desks as low as 25 inches.

Display

Especially relevant, the built-in LED monitor displays exercise time, distance, total distance, speed, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan function sequentially displays the workout data continuously. Especially relevant, you can switch between displaying miles and kilometers.

And, for more convenience, an optional display stand allows you to see your workout data on your desk, instead of having to look at it underneath the desk or table.

Handles

Next, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Pedals

In addition, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical has 13.5 inches long, 5.6 inches wide foot pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Especially relevant, the heavy flywheel keeps the pedal motion smooth and whisper quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical does not slide on carpets or mats. However, while it does slide on hardwood floors, using a mat solves the problem.

Tension

Next, the tension, that can be changed by a foot shifter, allows you to set 8 levels of magnetic resistance and thereby adjust the intensity of your workout.

Use

However, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical can only be used from a sitting position. Lastly, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical comes with wheel locks so that it can be used with rolling chairs.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical comes with one-year warranty for manufacturer’s defects.

Weight

Finally, the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical weighs 31 pounds.

PROS

Stamina Inmotion Compact Strider

Most noteworthy, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider has many beneficial features as described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Stamina Inmotion compact strider requires some assembly upon delivery. But it’s easy.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Stamina Inmotion compact strider under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider is 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 12 inches high. However, the pedals reach a high of only 10 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider needs a clearance of 11 to 12 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the built-in LED fitness monitor displays distance in miles, workout time, stride count, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan function sequentially displays the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider provides a low impact workout. In addition, the passive, low-attention exercise promotes leg movement and improves circulation. In the meantime, you are busy on your computer or watching TV or playing video games. Moreover, the low-impact elliptical motion saves your knees, hips, and other joints from the stress of normal cardio workouts. And the joint-friendly, low-impact elliptical motion not only helps you build endurance, but also tones and strengthens your lower body.

Handles

Next, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Pedals

In addition, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider has large non-slip pedals that allow you to use the strider while you are sitting or standing.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, Stamina Inmotion compact strider does not slide on carpets or mats.

Tension

Next, the adjustable resistance lets you get a light-resistance or a high intensity workout by the turn of a knob.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider comes with a standard manufacturer’s warranty.

Weight

Next, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider weighs 24 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, when used while standing, the Stamina Inmotion compact strider is limited to anyone weighing less than 250 pounds.

PROS

Mini Elliptical Stepper Reviews

jfit Under Desk & Stand Up Mini Elliptical/Stepper w/Adjustable Angle | The Ideal Fitness & Exercise Equipment for Home| Ideal for Men, Women, Kids & Seniors| Premium Home Gym Equipment Goplus desk elliptical stepper

Most noteworthy, features of the jfit Under Desk Elliptical are described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered jfit Under Desk Elliptical requires some assembly upon delivery. However, it is easy to assemble in about 20 minutes.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the jfit Under Desk Elliptical under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the jfit Under Desk Elliptical is 27 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 11 inches high to the top of the handle. However, the pedals reach a high of 12 inches above the floor. Consequently, the jfit Under Desk Elliptical needs a clearance of 13 to 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the Series 1050 monitor records your time, distance in kilometers, speed and calories burned.

Handles

Next, the jfit Under Desk Elliptical has two built-in handles. The top handle allows you to easily move the jfit Under Desk Elliptical anywhere. While the front handle provides additional support. In fact, the front handle is used to hold a chair with wheels, so that the chair doesn’t roll away when using the jfit Under Desk Elliptical.

Noise

Most noteworthy, the large rollerblade wheels provide a smoother, quieter workout.

Pedals

In addition, the jfit Under Desk Elliptical has 13.5 inches long, 5.5 inches wide foot pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, jfit Under Desk Elliptical has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the stride length is 10 to 15 inches.

Sliding

Furthermore, jfit Under Desk Elliptical does not slide on carpets or mats.

Tension

Next, the tension dial allows you adjust resistance which in turn sets the intensity of your workout.

Use

Most of all, the jfit Under Desk Elliptical can be used while sitting or standing.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the jfit Under Desk Elliptical comes with a limited one-year warranty on the frame and 90 days on parts.

Weight

Next, the jfit Under Desk Elliptical weighs 26.5 pounds.

Weight Capacity

PROS

Bionic Body Desk Elliptical Machine Mini Stepper Trainer with Magnetic Resistance Tubes NS-1009

Most noteworthy, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical which can work as a mini elliptical as well as a stepper (with more like an elliptical motion) has features described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Bionic Body under-desk elliptical requires some assembly upon delivery.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical has a sturdy steel frame.

Dimensions

In addition, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical is 25 inches long, 21 inches wide, and 12 inches high to the top of the handle.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD computer screen displays strides per minute, total strides, exercise time, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan function sequentially displays workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical can be used to exercise your upper and lower body simultaneously. Also, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical works as a stepper with the resistance tubes providing upper body, arm, and shoulder workouts.

Handles

Next, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Pedals

In addition, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical has sturdy non-slip wide pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, Bionic Body under-desk elliptical has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the stride length is 6 inches.

Sliding

Furthermore, Bionic Body under-desk elliptical does not slide on carpets, mats, hardwood floor, or other smooth floors. However, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical will likely scratch hardwood or other smooth floors. Consequently, it’s best to use a mat underneath.

Tension

Next, the adjustable resistance lever increases or decreases the resistance to tailor workout intensity.

Use

Most of all, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical can be used while sitting or standing.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical comes with a limited 2-year warranty on the frame.

Weight

Next, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical weighs 37 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, when used while standing, the Bionic Body under-desk elliptical is limited to anyone weighing less than 250 pounds.

PROS

Mini Elliptical Peddler Reviews

IDEER LIFE Under Desk&Stand Up Exercise Bike,Mini Elliptical Trainers Stepper Pedal w/Adjustable Resistance and LCD Display,Fitness Exercise Peddler for Home&Office Workout

Most noteworthy, the IDEER LIFE under desk which can work as a mini elliptical, a stepper, and a peddler has features described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered IDEER LIFE under desk can be assembled in three to five minutes with the included installation tools.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the IDEER LIFE under desk has a heavy-duty steel frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the IDEER LIFE under desk under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the IDEER LIFE under desk, is 24 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 11 inches high to the top of the handle. Consequently, the IDEER LIFE under desk needs a clearance of 12 to 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the built in LCD monitor displays exercise time, strides, total strides, distance, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan function sequentially displays workout data continuously. In addition, the display can be seen from a sitting or a standing position.

Exercise

Most of all, the IDEER LIFE under desk provides a low impact workout. In fact, the IDEER LIFE under desk exercises legs, thighs, and calves.

Handles and Wheels

Next, the IDEER LIFE under desk has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another. In addition, the IDEER LIFE under desk has two wheels. In fact, simply tilt and roll the machine to your next location. Consequently, there is no need to lift the machine and strain your muscles.

Because the IDEER LIFE under desk uses large rollerblade wheels, the workout is both smoother and quieter. Consequently, the IDEER LIFE under desk allows you to exercise while working in the office or watching TV at home without disturbing anyone in the house.

Pedals

In addition, the IDEER LIFE under desk has two 14 inches long, 5 inches wide non-slip textured pedals. And, these pedals secure your feet while working out as hard and as fast as you want.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, the IDEER LIFE under desk has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Moreover, the low profile and wide base prevents the IDEER LIFE under desk from rocking back and forth as you pedal.

Sliding

Because of its weight, the IDEER LIFE under desk does not slide on carpets, mats, hardwood floor, or other smooth floors.

Tension

Next, the IDEER LIFE under desk is designed with multiple resistance levels. As a result, you can adjust and control the intensity of your workout to match your needs. Whether you want an extended, light-resistance workout or an intense session, the adjustable resistance offers you full control. Moreover, IDEER LIFE under desk has a brake resistance system that ensures smooth and quiet pedal motion.

Use

Most of all, the IDEER LIFE under desk can be used while sitting or standing.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the IDEER LIFE under desk does not have a warranty, and there is no return policy.

Weight

Next, the IDEER LIFE under desk weighs 29 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, when used while standing, the IDEER LIFE under desk is limited to anyone weighing less than 243 pounds.

PROS

CONS

Stamina Peddler InMotion E1000 Elliptical Trainer Footprint: 20" x 12"

Most noteworthy, the Stamina Peddler InMotion has features described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Stamina Peddler InMotion requires some easy to do assembly.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Stamina Peddler InMotion has a sturdy steel frame.

Dimensions

In addition, the Stamina Peddler InMotion, is 20 inches long, 12 inches wide.

Display

Especially relevant, the built in LCD monitor displays exercise time, strides per minute, total number of strides, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan function sequentially displays workout data continuously. In addition, the display can be seen from a sitting or a standing position.

Handles

Next, the Stamina Peddler InMotion has no handles.

Pedals

In addition, the Stamina Peddler InMotion has two non-slip textured pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, to target different muscles, the Stamina Peddler InMotion has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction.

Tension

Next, the Stamina Peddler InMotion has a knob for adjusting resistance, which lets you tailor intensity of the workout.

Use

Most of all, the Stamina Peddler InMotion can be used while sitting in a chair or standing.

Weight

Next, the Stamina Peddler InMotion weighs 24 pounds.

CONS

How do you Evaluate these Ellipticals?

In fact, use the factors described below to grade these elliptical exercisers.

Assembly

While it would be preferable to get an under desk elliptical ready for use upon delivery, assembling the elliptical should be easy. In fact, the less assembly required, the better.

Construction

Next, an under desk elliptical made of heavy-duty alloys or steel is preferable. At least the frame must be metal. And, since you may push them hard, the pedals need to be made from heavy duty plastic such as ABS or better. Indeed, the more solid the construction, the longer the under desk elliptical will last, and more stable it will be.

Dimensions

Also, the under desk elliptical should fit wherever it’s going to be used. For example, if it’s going to be used under a desk, then the under desk elliptical shouldn’t take up all the space underneath the desk. Furthermore, it’s low enough for you to use it underneath the desk.

Display

Displays help you keep track of your workouts. Example of workout metrics include exercise time, strides, total strides, strides per minute, and calories burned. Moreover, you use this information to monitor your progress over time, or simply to ensure you met your daily target.

Exercise

Next, the under desk elliptical exercises the muscles you want to get exercised.

Handles

A handle makes it easier to move the under desk elliptical around with one hand. In the meantime, the heavier the under desk elliptical, the greater the need for a handle.

Height

If the under desk elliptical is going to be used under a desk, you need to measure the distance between the top of your knee, when sitting on a chair, and the floor with your shoes on. Next you need to measure the highest point the top of the pedal reaches above the floor. Next, the sum of these two numbers needs to be less than the distance between the underside of the table or desk top and the floor.

Noise

Because the under desk elliptical is likely to be used in office environments or while watching TV or reading a book, it needs to run as quietly as possible. Most of all, under desk elliptical using magnetic resistance run quieter. On the other hand, under desk elliptical that use friction for resistance tend to be noisy.

Pedals

Most of all, to drive the pedals with your feet, the pedals need to be non-slip and have a textured surface or else your feet will not grip the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, different muscles are exercised when the pedals move forwards and backwards.

Sliding

Furthermore, the under desk elliptical should not slide on carpets, mats, and hard floors as you use the machine.

Tension

Tension is sometimes referred to as resistance. And, nearly all under desk elliptical provide the capability to adjust tension so that you can change your workout intensity. However, not all under desk ellipticals provide markers that allow you to easily identify tension levels. Furthermore, such markers help you record tension levels of your workouts. And these markers are especially important, if the under desk elliptical is used by others.

Transportation

Because the under desk elliptical may be used under a desk, in front of a couch, or some other place, being lightweight becomes an advantage in terms of moving it from one location to another. While lightweight is great for moving the machine, it may make the machine unstable.

Use

In addition, manufacturers design under desk elliptical for different uses. So, you want to look for under desk ellipticals that target your needs. For example, some are designed for strengthening legs while located under a desk in the office or at home. While others give an upper body workout by standing on the machine.

Warranty

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

Weight

While, an under desk elliptical that weighs less are easier to carry around, they may not offer enough stability in use. On the other hand, heavier under desk elliptical offer more stability, but may be difficult to move frequently.

Weight Capacity

While under desk elliptical used while sitting is usable for anyone without regard to their weight, their use while standing may require users not exceed weight limits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you are looking for essentially a under desk elliptical that:

What are Your Needs?

First and foremost, itemize what you want from an under desk elliptical. For example, the list below gives you a start.

Indeed, answers to these questions and others will help guide you to the under desk elliptical that's best for you.

What Problems do these Mini Ellipticals Solve?

Hours Spent Sitting

According to the 2017 American time use survey by Bureau of Labor Statistics, part of the average American’s time each day is spent as follows:

For the most part, all these activities involve sitting. As a result, the average American spends 8.43 hours each day sitting. Most noteworthy, this number is consistent with other surveys and studies on sitting.

Consequences of Too Much Sitting

Especially relevant, prolonged sitting on a regular basis results in health problems such as:

But most of all, prolonged sitting effects muscles in the arms and the lower body.

Effect of Sitting on Lower Body Muscles

The legs contain the most muscle groups in your body. Too much sitting causes the quads, hamstrings, and calves to change. In fact, these muscles become less toned as the muscles get smaller and less defined. Indeed, the effects are first seen on your upper legs and hips, where fat deposits are common. These changes are largely because fat in this area tends to be less metabolically active than fat in other areas of the body.

Next, the buttocks are made up of three major muscle groups: the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus. Too much sitting causes these muscles to soften and become undefined, leaving the butt looking flat and misshapen. Moreover, as these muscles lose their tone, you may have difficulty maintaining good balance.

How does the Mini Elliptical Solve the Problems?

In fact, under desk ellipticals are used to exercise legs while working at a desk. Furthermore, under desk ellipticals are used when sitting in a chair or couch to exercise legs.

How much does Physical Activity Help?

First and foremost, a study was published in the March 21 2019 edition of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. In fact, the study looked at 14 years of activity and inactivity data of 92,500 people. Meanwhile, one study group consisted of participants who were least active with less than 17 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. And, the study found that if these participants replaced just 30 minutes of sitting with light activity, their risk of premature death falls by 14 percent. On the other hand, if these participants replaced 30 minutes of sitting with moderate to vigorous physical activity, their risk of premature death fell by an even larger 45 percent.

Is there Proof that Using Under Desk Elliptical Really Helps Your Body?

First and foremost, many studies show that physical inactivity and sedentary work environments increases insulin resistance. Moreover, this increase in insulin resistance leads to higher risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Incidentally, University of Massachusetts researchers published a study in October 2018 issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Indeed, the study reported that pedaling while working improves the body’s insulin response. While this study used pedals, under desk ellipticals are simply another way to get an equivalent exercise as the pedals. Consequently, the results of this study apply to under desk ellipticals also.

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, under desk ellipticals are better than treadmill or standing desk because long periods of standing lowers productivity besides being tiring.

Exercising Leg Muscles

Leg muscles are exercised by under desk ellipticals. The under desk elliptical is set on the floor with you sitting in a chair behind it. Furthermore, in this mode, the elliptical is used to strengthen and tone legs. Especially relevant, the muscles exercised include the hips flexors, glutes, calves, hamstrings and quadriceps.

Above all, the under desk elliptical helps you in the following ways.

Calories Burned

A July 2014 study in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport reported on under desk elliptical use. Specifically, the study reported on the feasibility of using under desk ellipticals during sedentary activities. Indeed, 32 physically inactive adults ranging in age from 25 to 65 were recruited.

Overall Average Calories Burned

In fact, participants expended a median of 179 calories per hour while using the under desk elliptical. Moreover, this was 89 calories per hour more than they expended while sedentary. Incidentally, the participants used the under desk elliptical at a rate of 76 strides per minute. Especially relevant, these participants would lose about 9 pounds if they used the under desk elliptical for one hour each day for one whole year.

Calories Burned by Men

Meanwhile, men expended a median of 216 calories per hour while using the under desk elliptical. Moreover, this was 33 calories per hour more than they expended while sedentary. Incidentally, the men used the under desk elliptical at a rate of 85 strides per minute. Especially relevant, these men would lose about 3.5 pounds if they used the under desk elliptical for one hour each day for one whole year. Finally, among the men, there was most interest in using the under desk elliptical for watching TV, reading, and doing computer work.

Calories Burned by Women

Next, women expended a median of 144 calories per hour while using the under desk elliptical. Moreover, this was 76 calories per hour more than they expended while sedentary. Incidentally, the women used the under desk elliptical at a rate of 75 strides per minute. Especially relevant, these women would lose about 8 pounds if they used the under desk elliptical for one hour each day for one whole year. Finally, among the women, there was even greater interest in using the under desk elliptical for watching TV, reading, and doing computer work.

How are these Mini Ellipticals Used?

First and foremost, to get the most out of the under desk elliptical, use proper form. In fact, that is key to a safe and effective workout. Manufacturer guidelines recommend that users sit in a chair that has a slight backward slope, allowing the user to lean back slightly. Also, use a chair that’s not going to move around as you use the under desk elliptical. To be sure, put a mat underneath your chair or use a heavier chair.

The back of the under desk elliptical (which is the side nearest your heels) should be placed roughly 8 to 10 inches from the front of the chair. As a result, your legs are slightly extended during the workout. Next, when a foot is in the "up" or “highest” position, its corresponding thigh should be roughly parallel to the floor, with the knee and lower leg forming an angle of approximately 110 degrees.

Most of all, as you use the under desk elliptical, hold onto the sides of the chair and brace your abdominals throughout the movement. As a result, your leg muscles get isolated which prevents compensatory movements that bring your upper body into the exercise.

How Much Time to Spend on these Under Desk Machines

While there is much to gain from using under desk ellipticals, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, the under desk elliptical should not become a distraction that causes your work performance to suffer. In fact, it’s best to use the under desk elliptical only with a light workload and you have the time to get a little bit distracted. But, under a moderate to high workload intensity, it’s best to not use the under desk elliptical.

Next, using the under desk elliptical at work for the first time, you are bound to get tired and that may interfere with your work performance. So, cut back and very slowly get used to using the under desk elliptical at work. On the other hand, if you are home and watching TV, there is nothing better than using the under desk elliptical to burn some calories and benefit from watching TV.

Use for Rehab or Injuries

Under desk ellipticals are easier on your joints than under desk pedals. Consequently, they are best for anyone who had a hip or knee replacement surgery. The natural oval movement of the machine ensures that your hips, knees, and ankles stay properly aligned, preventing more wear and tear on your body. And, because many knee injuries are a result of weak quads, a daily low-impact activity, like working out on the under desk elliptical will help to strengthen those muscles.

Next, under desk elliptical machines can increase blood flow to knee cartilage and strengthen the muscles around the knees. This helps keep your knee joints healthy. In addition, under desk ellipticals strengthen your quads, hamstrings, and ankles – all of which helps your knees. By having your feet always pressing into the pedals protects your joints from twisting. Furthermore, it also improves balance and keeps your body in alignment.

Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

Comparison with Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

First and foremost, under desk elliptical machines produces a walking action. Consequently, the joints relax during the exercise. In addition, these elliptical machines don’t put too much stress on the legs.

As a result, these elliptical machines have a lower impact than a sitting stepper. Specifically, the sitting stepper motion requires pushing down on pedals against hydraulic resistance. Consequently, there is greater stress on the knees but a better lower body muscle workout.

Finally, under desk pedals have a greater circular motion of the lower legs and hence more movement of the knees than these elliptical machines.

Links to Under Desk Pedal Exercisers

Under Desk Pedal Review - Best Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise Bikes to be Healthy

Folding Pedal Review - Best Folding Pedal Exerciser to be Healthy

Medical Pedal Review - Best Medical Pedal Exerciser to be Strong

Elderly Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exerciser for the Elderly to be Healthy

Motorized Pedal Review - Best Motorized Pedal Exerciser for Incapacitated to be Strong

Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exercisers to be Healthy

Links to Under Desk Steppers

Best Under Desk Stepper When You Have to Sit

Best Motorized Pedal Exerciser for Incapacitated to be Strong

Motorized pedal exerciser uses a motor to drive the pedals. Consequently, the exerciser is useful for anyone who has difficulty moving their arms and legs and benefit from the assistance provided by the exerciser.

Quick Navigation to Content Sections

What are Motorized Pedals?

Above all, the incapacitated, who cannot or have difficulty moving their arms or legs, use motorized pedal exerciser to exercise their arms or legs. In fact, motorized pedals provides a gentle low impact exercise for toning their arm and leg muscles.

Consequently, motorized pedals have the following design features:

Motorized Pedal Reviews

Exerpeutic 7101 Active Cycle Mini Exercise Bike

The Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, no assembly is required. In fact, the Exerpeutic 7101 is ready to be used upon delivery.

Construction

Next, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal has a durable steel frame.

Controller

Most noteworthy, a cable connects the hand-held controller to the machine. Furthermore, the hand-held controller adjusts the pedal's speed.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal is 16 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 13 inches high. Consequently, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal need a clearance of at least 14 inches for use under a desk or table. Moreover, it's compact size makes it easy to move around and store.  

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, distance, speed, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal can be used to exercise both arms and legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Handles

Next, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedals have a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Manual Operation

Most noteworthy, for higher resistance exercising, turn off the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal's motor.

Motor

The motor's speed is adjustable. In addition, the lowest speed is 26 revolutions per minute. Meanwhile, the motor operates on a standard 120 volt power supply. Furthermore, when the motor is running, hand or feet should not be used to forcibly move pedals.

Noise

Also, the direct current motor drive results in a quiet workout.

Pedals

The Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal's foldable pedals have adjustable straps to prevent feet from slipping while pedaling. In addition, the pedals can be used by both hands and feet.

Pedal Movement

While the pedals only move in the forward direction, you can turn the pedal exerciser around to exercise using the backwards or reverse pedal movement. In addition, because they are driven by a motor, the pedal motion is consistent.

Sliding

Furthermore, a non-skid floor mat is provided to prevent skidding on smooth floors.

Warranty

Most of all, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Weight

Also, the Exerpeutic 7101 motorized pedal weighs 12.5 pounds, making it convenient to move around.

Weight Capacity 

Finally, the weight capacity of the Exerpeutic 7101 is 250 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the motor, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

PROS

CONS

Confidence Fitness Motorized Electric Mini Exercise Bike/Pedal Exerciser

The Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, some assembly is required. Indeed, the pedals and the feet have to be screwed on the body.

Controller

Most noteworthy, a cable connects the hand-held controller to the machine. Furthermore, the hand-held controller adjusts the pedal's speed, exercise duration, pedal direction, and workout programs.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike is 18.5 inches long, 11.5 inches wide, and 11 inches high. Consequently, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike needs a clearance of 13 inches for use under a desk or table.  Moreover, it's compact size makes it easy to carry out and store.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, distance, speed, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike can be used to exercise both arms and legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Manual Operation

Most noteworthy, for manual use, turn off the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike's motor.

Motor

Next, the motor's speed is adjustable with 12 speed settings. In addition, the maximum speed is 80 revolutions per minute. Meanwhile, the 70 watts motor operates on a standard 110 volt power supply. Furthermore, when motor is running, hand or feet should not be used to forcibly move pedals.

Noise

Especially relevant, the direct current motor drive results in a quiet workout.

Pedals

Most of all, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike has 4.5 inches wide pedals that can be used by both hands and feet. In addition, the non-slip pedals with adjustable Velcro straps prevent feet from slipping while pedaling.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the machine can rotate the pedals in both the forward and backwards direction. In addition, because they are driven by a motor, the pedal motion is consistent.

Programs

Above all, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike comes with 5 built-in automatic programs and 1 manual program. Most noteworthy, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike is usable in time chunks ranging from 1 to 15 minutes

Sliding

Furthermore, a non-skid floor mat is needed to prevent skidding on smooth floors.

Stability

In addition, you have to use your feet and legs to keep the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike steady, otherwise it could wobble..

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Also, the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike weighs 10 pounds, making it convenient to move around.

Weight Capacity 

Finally, the weight capacity of the Confidence fitness electric mini exercise bike is 264 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the motor, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

PROS

CONS

Sunny Health & Fitness EZ Stride Motorized Auto Assisted Under Desk Elliptical Peddler Exerciser - SF-E3626

The Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, no assembly is required. The Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is ready to be used upon delivery.

Controller

Most noteworthy, the controller is located on the machine and is used to set either auto or manual mode of operation. Furthermore, in auto mode, the controller is used to set 3 speed settings: low, middle, and high. While, in manual mode the controller lets you set 3 levels of resistance: low, medium, high. Finally, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is automatically shut off when machine has been idle over 30 minutes.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

In addition, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is 20 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 10.5 inches high. Consequently, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal needs a clearance of 12 inches for use under a desk or table. And, because the Sunny exerciser takes up more area, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal provides more stability.

Display

Especially relevant, the digital LED displays step counts.

Exercise

Most of all, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal exercises only the legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Handles

Next, theSunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Manual Operation

Most noteworthy, for manual use, turn off the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal's motor.

Motor

The motor operates on a standard 120 volt power supply.

Pedals

Most of all, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal has large textured anti-slip foot pedals and no straps are needed.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal can rotate the pedals in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, a rubberized non-skid floor mat is provided to prevent skidding on smooth floors.

Warranty

Most of all, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Weight

Also, the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal weighs 16.5 pounds.

Weight Capacity 

Finally, the weight capacity of the Sunny SF-E3626 motorized pedal is 220 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the motor, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

PROS

CONS

Electric Pedal Exerciser for Seniors Portable Fitness Cycle for Arm/Leg Exercise Mini Cycling Trainer Stationary Exercise

The Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, some assembly is required. Indeed, the handles or the pedals have to be screwed on the cranks. In addition, the foot pads have to be screwed on the bottom.

Controller

Most noteworthy, a cable connects the hand-held controller to the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser. Furthermore, the hand-held controller adjusts the workout duration and direction of pedal rotation. In addition, the controller sets the mode - either auto or manual. Finally, the controller helps set motor speeds, which may be one of 30, 40, 50, and 60 revolutions per minute.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser is 16 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 14 inches high. Consequently, the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser needs a clearance of at least 15 inches for use under a desk or table.

Exercise

Most of all, the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Handles

Next, the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Motor

The motor operates on a standard 110-120 volt power supply.

Pedals

Furthermore, the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser has pedals with foot straps to hold your feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser's motor can rotate the pedals in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, a non-skid floor mat is provided to prevent skidding on smooth floors.

Warranty

Most of all, the Dragon-hub electric pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer’s warranty.

PROS

Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Cycle with 90 RPMs for Leg and arm Exercises with Motorized and Manual Option - SF-B0717

The Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike has the following features.

Controller

First and foremost, a cable connects the hand-held controller to the  Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike. Furthermore, the hand-held controller powers up or down the exerciser and sets the direction of pedal rotation. In addition, the controller sets the mode - either auto or manual. And, in auto mode, the controller selects one of 12 adjustable motor speed settings with a maximum speed of 90 revolutions per minute. Meanwhile, the controller can also set workout times of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 minutes.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike is 20 inches long, 18.5 inches wide, and 14 inches high. Consequently, the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike needs a clearance of at least 15 inches for use under a desk or table. And, because the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike takes up more area, the Sunny SF-B0717 provides more stability.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays workout time, direction, speed and revolutions per minute.

Exercise

Most of all, the  Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike exercises both arms and legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Handles

Next, the  Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Motor

The motor operates on a standard 120 volt power supply.

Pedals

Furthermore, the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike has pedals with adjustable straps to hold your feet to the pedals. Moreover, the pedals can also be used by hands.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike's motor can rotate pedals in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Next, the  Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike has rubber anti-skid feet that help the machine remain balanced and steady while exercising.

Warranty

Most of all, the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike comes with a standard manufacturer’s warranty.

Weight

Also, the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike weighs 17 pounds.

Weight Capacity 

Finally, the weight capacity of the Sunny SF-B0717 motorized mini exercise bike is 220 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the motor, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

PROS

Adjustable Speed with Overload Protection, Motorized Mini Exercise Bike

The Exerpeutic Activecycle motorized mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, no assembly is required. In fact, Exerpeutic Activecycle is ready to be used upon delivery.

Construction

Next, the Exerpeutic Activecycle has a durable steel frame.

Controller

Most noteworthy, a cable connects the hand-held controller to the Exerpeutic Activecycle and helps adjust the pedals' speed.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Exerpeutic Activecycle under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Exerpeutic Activecycle is 16 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 13 inches high. Consequently, the Exerpeutic Activecycle needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table. Moreover, it's compact size makes it easy to move around and store.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, distance, speed, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Exerpeutic Activecycle exercises both arms and legs. In addition, the low impact workout is easy on the joints.

Handles

Next, the Exerpeutic Activecycle has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move from one place to another.

Manual Operation

Meanwhile, for higher resistance exercising, turn off the Exerpeutic Activecycle's motor.

Motor

The Exerpeutic Activecycle motor's speed is adjustable from 15 to 60 revolutions per minute. Meanwhile, the motor operates on a standard 120 volt power supply. Furthermore, when motor is running, hand or feet should not be used to forcibly move pedals.

Noise

Also, the direct current motor drive results in a quiet workout.

Pedals

Furthermore, the Exerpeutic Activecycle's foldable pedals have adjustable straps to prevent feet from slipping while pedaling. Also, the pedals can be used by both hands and feet.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the pedals only move in the forward direction. But, you can turn the Exerpeutic Activecycle around to exercise using the backwards or reverse pedal movement. In addition, because they are driven by a motor, the pedal motion is consistent.

Sliding

Furthermore, a non-skid floor mat is provided to prevent skidding on smooth floors.

Warranty

Most of all, the Exerpeutic Activecycle comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Weight

Also, the Exerpeutic Activecycle weighs 12.5 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the weight capacity of the Exerpeutic Activecycle is 250 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the motor, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

PROS

CONS

How do you Evaluate these Pedals?

In fact, use the factors described below to grade these motorized pedal exercisers.

Desk Use

Some people may prefer to use the motorized pedal under a desk or table while they work. Several of the motorized pedal exercisers may fit under a desk or table. It all depends on the maximum height a pedal rises above the floor and the clearance between the top of your knees and the underside of the desk of table.

Display

LCD monitors that show workout time, revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned help keep track of your workouts. But they may not be needed if you are incapacitated.

Exercise

Most of all, a pedal exerciser exercising both arms and legs gives you more options.

Motor

Especially relevant, the motor is used to drive the pedals. Consequently, a motor with adjustable speed gives you different workout intensities. Meanwhile, in the United States, the motor should operate on a standard 120 volt power supply.

Pedal Movement

Pedals that move forward and backwards exercise different muscles of the legs and arms. Studies show that pedaling backwards has been observed to reduce pressure on the tibiofemoral joint which may offer value in the rehabilitation of meniscal problems or tibiofemoral osteoarthritis. In addition, pedaling backwards was associated with higher muscle activation of the quadriceps muscles.

Pedal Straps

Pedal strap help grip your feet to the pedals, which makes it easier to keep your feet on the pedal. In addition, pedal straps need to be adjustable to accommodate various shoe sizes.

Resistance

Epecially relevant, motorized pedals are designed for the incapacitated. Consequently, many provide very little resistance to pedaling than other pedal exercisers. However, motorized pedals do provide resistance, when the motor is turned off.

Skidding

Several of the motorized pedal exercisers have feet that prevents skidding, while others require the use of a rubberized non-skid mat.

Warranty

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

Weight

Finally, pedal exercisers that weigh less are easier to carry around. On the other hand, heavier pedal exercisers offer more stability.

Who would Benefit from these Pedals?

Why are these Pedals Helpful?

Most of all, the motorized pedal exerciser helps you in the following ways.

How are these Pedals Helpful?

Those Suffering from Stroke

Research presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference in 2015 reported that stroke patients benefited from movement. In fact, stroke patients exercising on motorized pedal exercisers improved motor functions in their arms.

Especially relevant, 17 stroke survivors, ranging in age from 23 to 84, participated in the research. Moreover, these survivors had a stroke six to 12 months prior to the study. Meanwhile, all the 17 survivors participated in upper extremity repetitive exercises to regain arm use. On the other hand, one group of survivors also exercised on motorized stationary bikes for 45 minutes before the extremity repetitive exercises. And, after 24 sessions over an eight-week period, this group experienced a 34 percent improvement in their motor skills.

Furthermore, motor assisted stationary bicycles have also been shown to help patients with Parkinson’s disease, another neurological disorder.

Indeed, the advantage of motorized bike is that it helps patients with limited mobility to pedal and achieve intensity of training necessary to impact brain functions. Moreover, aerobic exercises have been shown to condition the brain for learning. In fact, it’s just not the brain and motor functions that benefit from motorized bikes, but motorized bikes also improve cardiovascular health of stroke patients.

Those with Diabetes or Heart Attacks

Diabetes and Passive Exercise

Research shows that nearly forty percent of Americans have high levels of blood sugar after meals. Regrettably, high levels of blood sugar can damage cells in the body.

Moreover, when blood sugar levels are very high, sugar can stick on the outer membranes of cells. And once there, it can never get off. The sugar is converted by a series of reactions to sorbitol. And the sorbitol destroys the cell.

This cell destruction is the reason why diabetics and pre-diabetics can suffer blindness, certain cancers, deafness, dementia, heart attacks, impotence, loss of feeling in the feet, osteoporosis, strokes, and so on.

Meanwhile, any kind of exercise, including passive movement of muscles by a machine can help prevent diabetes or treat existing diabetes. This is because resting muscles absorb very little sugar from the bloodstream and the little that do draw requires insulin. On the other hand, contracting muscles draw huge amounts of sugar from the bloodstream and don’t even need insulin to do so.

Finally, people with paralysis of their legs are at risk of kidney infections, kidney failure, strokes, heart attacks and diabetes. And, all these people would benefit from passive movement of muscles by a machine such as the motorized pedal.

Takeaways from Studies on Passive Exercise

Especially relevant, a study appeared on page 1,821 in the September 2016 edition of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise.  And, this study reported that passive exercise, such as using the motorized pedal helps. In fact, passive exercise helps by burning extra calories, lowering blood sugar, and insulin levels in inactive people. Consequently, by simply having their legs moved by motorized pedal exercisers, the insulin sensitivity of inactive people increased after eating. In fact, this occurred because blood sugar rises were reduced after eating.

In another study, 20 sedentary people rode an electric motor bike which requires the occupant to pedal to keep the motor running. They rode for 40 minutes three time a week. One month later, these sedentary people had lower blood sugar, were more insulin sensitive and had less body fat. In addition, the study showed the sedentary people improved their body fat content and their blood pressure.

Calories from Passive Exercises

Over 60 years ago, scientist found that a person passively moved by motor driven pedals at 56 revolutions per minute, burned at least 7 to 15 kilogram calories per hour. Furthermore, if the person was passively moved at 74 revolutions per minute, the person would burn 19 to 26 kilogram calories per hour.

In addition, two leg passive cycling at 90 revolutions per minute resulted in energy expenditure that is nearly the same as energy expenditure from walking. Or in other words, a person, paralyzed in the legs, using a motor driven stationary bike gets the same amount of exercise as a non-disabled person gets from walking.

Cerebral Palsy

Most noteworthy, treatments  for cerebral palsy include improving joint flexibility, increasing mobility, improving muscle definition, and improving muscle tone. Consequently, motorized pedals, with their ability to move arms and legs passively, is a treatment option..

Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

Comparison with Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

First and foremost, motorized pedals have a circular motion of the lower legs and hence more circular movement of the knees. In addition, motorized pedals exercise glutes, quads, hamstrings, and to a lesser extent the calves.

Meanwhile, the stepping action of sitting steppers requires pushing down on the pedals against hydraulic resistance. As a result, there is greater stress on the knees. But a better lower leg muscle workout, especially of the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves.

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

Links to Other Under Desk Pedal Exercisers

Elderly Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exerciser for the Elderly to be Healthy

Folding Pedal Review - Best Folding Pedal Exerciser to be Healthy

Under Desk Pedal Review - Best Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise Bikes to be Healthy

Medical Pedal Review - Best Medical Pedal Exerciser to be Strong

Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exercisers to be Healthy

Links to Under Desk Steppers

Best Under Desk Stepper When You Have to Sit

Links to Under Desk Ellipticals

Best Under Desk Elliptical to be Healthy

Best Medical Pedal Exerciser to be Strong

Medical Pedal Exerciser is used for physical therapy or recovery following an injury, medical intervention, or an operation.

Quick Navigation to Content Sections

What are Medical Pedals?

Above all, the medical pedal exerciser is used for physical therapy of the arms, elbows, shoulders, legs, knees following surgery or injury. In fact, medical pedals provide a gentle low impact exercise for toning muscles during physiotherapy. Most noteworthy, medical pedals are not designed for regular or heavy workouts.

Consequently, the medical pedal exerciser has the following design features:

Medical Pedal Reviews

Especially noteworthy, tube framed medical pedal exercisers offer light resistance, while the cased body medical pedal exercisers offer higher resistance.

Drive Medical Deluxe Folding Exercise Peddler with Electronic Display, Black Model # RTL10273

Most of all, the Drive Medical exercise peddler has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Drive Medical peddler is almost completely assembled.  In fact, the only assembly required is to screw in the knob that controls tension or resistance.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Drive Medical peddler under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Drive Medical peddler, is 20 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches high. Consequently, the Drive Medical peddler needs a clearance of at least 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Drive Medical peddler exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Drive Medical peddler when folded it is 12.5 inches long, 14.7 inches wide, and 6.5 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the Drive Medical peddler has pedals with non-adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals. Meanwhile, the distance from one pedal to the other is 10 inches.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Drive Medical peddler has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. In addition, the pedal movement is smooth and quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Drive Medical peddler has 4 anti-slip rubber pads which prevent the peddler from sliding on hard surfaces while protecting the surface.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. However, the tension or resistance is low because the peddler is meant for use as a medical exerciser and not so much to get a heavy workout. Regrettably, the tension generates heat. Consequently the pedal cranks may get hot after being used for a while.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Drive Medical peddler comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Drive medical peddler, weighing only 5 pounds, is very light.

PROS

CONS

Vaunn Medical Pedal Exerciser Chrome Frame (Fully Assembled Exercise Peddler, no Tools Required)

Most of all, the Vaunn medical pedal exerciser, designed for physical therapy, has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, no assembly is required. Consequently, the Vaunn medical pedal exerciser is ready for use upon delivery.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the single piece pedal exerciser has a high-quality triple-layered chrome-plated heavy-duty steel frame. Consequently, the pedal exerciser offers ultimate stability & lifetime durability that guarantees the pedal exerciser to stay rust-free. Most of all, the Vaunn pedal exerciser does not wobble during use.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Vaunn medical pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Vaunn medical pedal exerciser is 21 inches long, 15.75 inches wide, and 11.75 inches high. Consequently, the Vaunn medical pedal exerciser needs a clearance of at least 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Exercise

Most of all, the Vaunn medical pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Vaunn pedal exerciser is not foldable.

Pedals

In addition, the Vaunn pedal exerciser has pedals with adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Also, the Vaunn pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Vaunn pedal exerciser has non-skid ribbed reinforced rubber feet that provide traction and security on any floor, table, or surface. In addition, the Vaunn exerciser can be tied to a chair by straps so that the pedal exerciser doesn't slide away.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. However, the tension or resistance is low because the Vaunn pedal exerciser is meant for use as a medical exerciser and not so much to get a heavy workout.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Vaunn medical pedal exerciser comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the medical pedal exerciser, weighing only 4.4 pounds, is very light.

PROS

CONS

Medical Folding Pedal Exerciser with Electronic Display

Most of all, the medical folding pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, no assembly is required. Consequently, the folding medical pedal exerciser is ready for use upon delivery.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the folding pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the folding medical pedal exerciser is 20 inches long and 15.75 inches wide, Moreover, the pedals reach as high as 12.5 inches above the floor.  Consequently, the folding medical pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the folding pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the folding pedal exerciser folds instantly. Moreover, the folded size is 15.2 inches long, 11.4 inches wide, and 7.6 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the folding pedal exerciser's  four inch wide pedals have adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the folding pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, the folding pedal exerciser has non-skid ribbed rubber feet that provide traction and stability on any floor, table, or surface.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. However, the tension or resistance is low because the folding pedal exerciser is meant for use as a medical exerciser.

Use

Most noteworthy, the folding pedal exerciser is designed for physical therapy providing gentle low impact exercise and not for strenuous workouts.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the folding pedal exerciser comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the folding pedal exerciser, weighing only 5.2 pounds, is very light.

PROS

Vaunn Medical Portable Pedal Exerciser with Chrome Frame (Triple-Layered) Simple and Quick Assembly Required

Most of all, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser has the following features.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the single piece Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser has a high-quality triple-layered chrome-plated heavy-duty steel frame. Consequently, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser offers ultimate stability & lifetime durability that guarantees the portable pedal exerciser to stay rust-free. Most of all, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser does not wobble during use.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the  Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser is 22 inches long and 15.5 inches wide, Also, the pedals reach as high as 13 inches above the floor.  Consequently, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser  needs a clearance of at least 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Exercise

Most of all, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser is not foldable. However, it is easy to disassemble for travelling.

Pedals

In addition, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser has four inch wide pedals with adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser has non-skid ribbed reinforced rubber feet and reinforced pedal platform that provide traction on any floor, table, or surface.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Use

Most noteworthy, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser is designed for physical therapy providing gentle low impact exercise and not for strenuous workouts.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Vaunn medical portable pedal exerciser, weighing only 5 pounds, is very light. As a result, it is easy to move from one place to another.

CONS

Vaunn Medical Folding Pedal Exerciser with Electronic Display for Legs and Arms Workout (Fully Assembled Exercise Peddler, no Tools Required)

Most of all, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser is delivered almost completely assembled.  In fact, the only assembly required is to attach the display.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the pedals of the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser reach as high as 14.5 inches above the floor.  Consequently, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 16 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser exercises arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser folds instantly. Moreover, the folded size is 15.2 inches long, 11.4 inches wide, and 7.6 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser has pedals with adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser has non-skid ribbed rubber feet to prevent sliding on any floor, table, or surface.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Use

Most noteworthy, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser is designed for physical therapy. Indeed, the focus is on the quads and hamstrings.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Vaunn medical folding pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the medical folding pedal exerciser, weighing only 5 pounds, is very light. As a result, it is easy to move from one place to another.

PROS

TODO Pedal Exerciser Medical Peddler for Leg Arm and Knee Recovery Exercise with LCD Monitor

Most of all, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler requires a few minutes to complete assembly.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler has a reinforced steel (also known as steel bars) frame. In addition, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler uses a 5-pound steel flywheel.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimension

In addition, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler is 16 inches long, 13.8 inches wide, and 12.6 inches high.  Consequently, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, revolutions, total revolutions, distance, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler exercises both arms and legs.

Feet

Next, the anti-scuff rubber feet will not scratch the surface such as floor, table top, or desk top.

Pedals

In addition, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler's pedals have non-slip surface with molded finger grips. Indeed, the molded finger grips help the hands grip pedals while exercising arms. Also, the pedals have adjustable toe loops for holding the feet.

Pedal Movement

Next, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler's pedal movement is smooth and quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler can be tied to a chair by straps so that the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler doesn't slide away.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Use

Most noteworthy, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler is designed for recovery of legs, arms, and knees.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the TODO pedal exerciser medical peddler weighs 13 pounds. While it is heavier than several of the others described here, it is still lightweight and easy to move from one place to another.

PROS

CONS

Portable Exercise Bike Pedals Stable Mini Floor Foot Pedal - Durable Leg and Arm Recovery Medical Exerciser

Most of all, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser is easy to assemble with the tools provided.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser has a iron and ABS plastic frame. Moreover, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser uses a heavy duty flywheel.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Firstry recovery medical exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser is 16 inches long, 13.3 inches wide, and 12.1 inches high. Consequently, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, speed, distance, and calories burned.

Exercise 

Most of all, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser has pedals with adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. In addition, the pedal motion is smooth and quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser does not slide on floors.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Use

Most noteworthy, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser is designed for recovery of legs and arms.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Firstry recovery medical exerciser, weighing less than 8.4 pounds, is light. As a result, it is easy to move from one place to another.

PROS

MOMODA Medical Exercise Bike Foot Peddler for Leg and Arm Recovery

Most of all, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has the following features.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has a reinforced steel pipes and ABS plastic frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Momoda medical exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimension

In addition, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is 20.9 inches long and 14.2 inches wide. Furthermore, the highest height the pedal reaches is 13 inches above the floor.  Consequently, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike needs a clearance of 15 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, count of revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Also, the scan sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the folded size of the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is 12.6 inches long, 14.2 inches wide, and 6.7 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike's pedals have adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals. Furthermore, thermal insulation foam wrapped on pedal cranks helps prevent scalding from heated cranks.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedal motion is smooth and quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike has large anti-slip rubber feet to prevent bike from sliding on smooth floors. However, it does slide on carpets. Therefore, a strap is provided to tie the Momoda bike to a chair so it doesn’t slide away.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. However, the tension or resistance is low because the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is meant for use as a medical exerciser.

Use

Most noteworthy, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike is designed for recovery of the knees and shoulders.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Momoda Medical Exercise Bike, weighing only 7 pounds, is very light.

PROS

How do you Evaluate these Pedals?

In fact, use the factors described below to grade these medical pedal exercisers.

Desk Use

Most noteworthy, many people would prefer to use the medical pedal exerciser under a desk or table while they work. In fact, several of the medical pedal exercisers may fit under a desk or table. However, it all depends on the maximum height a pedal rises above the floor. In addition, it depends on the clearance between the top of your knees and the underside of the desk of table.

Display

Next, LCD monitors that show workout time, revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned help keep track of your workouts. But they are not absolutely needed if you trying to recover from an injury or surgery.

Exercise

Most of all, a pedal exerciser exercising both arms and legs gives you more options.

Feet

Most of all, the feet are generally made from heavy duty rubber or other similar material to protect the floor and/or the table from scratches and marks. Also, the feet help prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding as you pedal. Indeed, nearly all pedal exercisers are lightweight weighing less than 13 pounds. In addition, most people try to use the pedals as they would a recumbent bike – namely by pushing the pedals away from you. This pushing action is a consequence of the chair being behind the pedal exerciser – as with a recumbent bike. Moreover, this pushing action pushes the pedal exerciser away from you. So instead of pushing on the pedals, push the pedals down towards the floor. Consequently, the pedal exerciser may stay in place as you peddle.

Especially relevant, several pedal exercisers provide straps to tie the pedal exercise to the chair. On the other hand, if you choose one without the straps, there are ways to prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding.

Foldable

Also, foldable pedal exercisers are easy to move and put away after use. Moreover, they take up less space in storage when compared to pedal exercisers that don’t.

Noise

Because the pedal exercisers are likely to be used in office environments or while watching TV or reading a book, they need to run as quietly as possible. Most of all, pedal exercisers using magnetic resistance run quieter. On the other hand, pedal exercisers that use friction for resistance tend to be noisy. To reduce this noise, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Pedal Movement

Next, pedals that move forward and backwards exercise different muscles of the legs and arms. Also, studies show that pedaling backwards has been observed to reduce pressure on the tibiofemoral joint which may offer value in the rehabilitation of meniscal problems or tibiofemoral osteoarthritis. In addition, pedaling backwards was associated with higher muscle activation of the quadriceps muscles.

Pedal Straps

In addition, pedal straps help grip your feet to the pedals, which makes it easier to pedal. Moreover, pedal straps need to be adjustable to accommodate various shoe sizes.

Resistance

Most noteworthy, medical pedal exercisers are designed for rehab and physical therapy. Consequently, they provide much lower resistance to pedaling than other pedal exercisers.

Skidding

Also, some pedal exercisers provide a strap to hold the pedal exerciser tied to a chair. While others have feet that prevents skidding.

Tension

Tension is sometimes referred to as resistance. And, nearly all pedal exercisers provide the capability to adjust tension so that you can change your workout intensity. However, not all pedal exercisers provide markers that allow you to easily identify tension levels. Furthermore, such markers help you record tension levels of your workouts. And these markers are especially important, if the pedal exerciser is used by others.

Most noteworthy, tension based on friction will cause metal parts in the vicinity to heat up. Pedal exercisers that offer protection from contact with the heated parts are better than those which don’t. Furthermore, depending on the pedal speed, and the length of time pedaling, heating could start to be felt as soon as 15 minutes after starting. However, if you are pedaling slowly, heat from friction likely won’t be an issue. Be that as it may, you can reduce the build up of heat by lubricating. In fact, to lubricate, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Warranty

Next, the longer the warranty period the better you are protected against manufacturing defects. Also, a 90-day period will cover majority of manufacturing defects. Because most defects are found in this period, it’s important to ensure your purchase is covered during that time. In addition, a longer warranty period, implies that the pedal exerciser is better built to last a longer time.

Weight

Finally, pedal exercisers that weigh less are easier to carry around. On the other hand, heavier pedal exercisers offer more stability.

Why are these Pedals Helpful?

Most of all, the medical pedal exerciser helps you in the following ways.

How are these Pedals Used?

The Wrong Way

First and foremost, a pedal exerciser shouldn’t be used like a recumbent bike. Most noteworthy, when you use a recumbent bike, because the seat is somewhat away from the pedals, you end up pushing the pedals forward. So, if you do this with the pedal exerciser too far away from your chair, the pedal exerciser will either slide or tilt forward.

The Correct Way

Therefore, keep the pedal exerciser closer to the chair. And, don’t start pedaling until the pedal arm is in the 1 o’clock position. At that time, push the pedals downward towards the floor. And, make sure your toes are pointing forward not upwards. Consequently, you can pedal downward even when you are sitting on a low chair or couch. Moreover, when you are sitting in a low chair or couch, you work both the quads and the hamstrings.

Also, by starting at very little resistance you can learn the correct way to pedal. Most of all, focus on pedaling downwards. In addition, pedal for at least 15 minutes at very little resistance. Next, increase the resistance a little and pedal for another 15 minutes. And, repeat this sequence until you reach a resistance where you are comfortable pedaling.

Lower Body Workout

First, place pedal exerciser underneath your desk, or on the floor in front of a couch or chair. And do 20 minutes of pedaling with no resistance. Next, increase resistance and do another 20 minutes. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Arm Exercises

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, changing the resistance to make it somewhat of an effort. And do this for 15 minutes. Next, change direction and rotate pedals backwards for another 15 minutes. Repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretch Arm Muscles

Firstly, to stretch arm muscles, put elbow on the table with your arm bent, while keeping the other arm free. Secondly, position the top of your hand so that it is touching the pedal and grasp the pedals with fingers. Thirdly, starting with no resistance, slowly push down on the pedal. Next, pull the pedal back up. And, repeat with the other arm. Next, increase resistance and repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Strengthen Upper Body Muscles

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, starting at zero resistance And, do this for 10 minutes. Next, gradually increase time and resistance. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Knee Injury

Most of all, you can use the pedal exerciser to increase flexibility of muscles surrounding your injured knee. Firstly, sit in a firm but comfortable chair to stabilize your back. Secondly, place the pedal exerciser in front of you. Thirdly, place your feet on the pedals and slowly pedal with zero resistance. Next, gradually increase time and resistance and repeat, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretching Injured Knee

Finally, the pedal exerciser can be used as a stretching machine. Firstly, slide feet of the leg with injured knee in the pedal next to the floor. Secondly, rotate pedal to the highest height using the leg with injured knee. And hold that position. Next, gently push pedal back down and pull back up. And, repeat this sequence for 5 cycles.

Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

Comparison with Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

First and foremost, medical pedal exercisers have a circular motion of the lower legs and hence more circular movement of the knees. In addition, medical pedal exercisers exercise glutes, quads, hamstrings, and to a lesser extent the calves.

Meanwhile, the stepping action of sitting steppers requires pushing down on the pedals against hydraulic resistance. As a result, there is greater stress on the knees. But a better lower leg muscle workout, especially of the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves.

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

Other Under Desk Pedal Exercisers

Elderly Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exerciser for the Elderly to be Healthy

Folding Pedal Review - Best Folding Pedal Exerciser to be Healthy

Under Desk Pedal Review - Best Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise Bikes to be Healthy

Motorized Pedal Review - Best Motorized Pedal Exerciser for Incapacitated to be Strong

Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exercisers to be Healthy

Links to Under Desk Steppers

Best Under Desk Stepper When You Have to Sit

Links to Under Desk Ellipticals

Best Under Desk Elliptical to be Healthy

Best Folding Pedal Exerciser to be Healthy

People spend an extraordinary amount of time sitting each day. Regrettably, sitting has many negative consequences. However, if you must sit, exercise gear like the folding pedal exerciser may help lessen some of the bad consequences. Most noteworthy, the folding pedal exerciser can be used to exercise both arms and legs.

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Why Use Folding Pedals?

First of all, the folding pedal exerciser is not suited for use under a desk. Instead, after use, the folding pedal exerciser can be easily folded. And being light weight, the folding pedal exerciser can be easily put away or moved from room to room. In addition, because it is light weight, the foldable pedal exerciser can be lifted on to a table and used to exercise your arms. Furthermore, these pedal exercisers allow both forward and backward pedaling. Finally, the folding pedal exerciser is a great low cost option for exercising your arms or legs.

Folding Pedal Reviews

The folding pedal exercisers described below were designed to help you get some exercise, lose weight, and stay active while sitting for long periods of time.

Platinum Fitness Fit Sit Deluxe Folding Pedal Exerciser Leg Machine with Electronic Display

The most popular Platinum Fitness Fit Sit has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Platinum Fitness Fit Sit is almost fully assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to attach the dial.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit has an easy to clean powder coated finish.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit is 17.75 inches long and 15.25 inches wide. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 12 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit needs a clearance of at least 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit has a quick folding frame making it easy to store and move wherever necessary. Furthermore, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit, when folded, is 10.5 inches long, 15.25 inches wide, and 6.5 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit has 4 inch wide pedals with non-adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also pedal movements are quiet. In addition, cool rev technology prevents dangerous overheating,

Sliding

Furthermore, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit has non-marking foot pads which work well on carpets, floor mat, or plain floor. In addition, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit can be tied to a chair by anchor straps so that the folding pedal exerciser doesn't slide away.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. 

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit, weighs only 5 pounds.

PROS

CONS

Stamina 15-0125 InStride Folding Cycle

The very popular Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser is fully assembled and ready for use.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Stamina 15-0125 has a durable steel tubular frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser is 19 inches long and 15.25 inches wide. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 12.25 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, LCD displays workout time.

Exercise

Most of all, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser is foldable for easy storage. In fact, simply unscrew the tension knob and fold the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser.

Pedals

In addition, the Stamina 15-0125's textured pedals have foot straps holding feet firmly to the pedals. In fact, the textured pedals help prevent feet from slipping on the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedal movements are quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser has non-slip rubber feet that work well on carpets or floor mats.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser comes with a 90-day warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Stamina 15-0125 folding pedal exerciser, weighs only 6.2 pounds.

PROS

CONS

AdirMed Digital Foldable Mini Floor Foot Pedal Exerciser Leg Machine - Under Desk Exerciser - Fully Assembled No Tools Required

The very popular AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser is fully assembled and ready for use.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has a durable chrome frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser is 18 inches long and 14 inches wide. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 13.5 inches above the floor. Consequently, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 15 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays workout time, count of revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser folds for easy storage. 

Pedals

In addition, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser's pedals have non-adjustable foot straps holding feet firmly to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedal movements are quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has four anti-slip rubber pads on the two legs to prevent sliding while also protecting the floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser has NO warranty.

Weight

Finally, the AdirMed foldable pedal exerciser, weighs 7 pounds.

CONS

BodyHealt Pedal Exerciser - Portable Legs & Arms Workout Pedal Exerciser - Provides Superior Physical Workout with Tension Adjustment, Durable Construction with Non-Slip Base

The BodyHealt pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered BodyHealt pedal exerciser is fully assembled and ready for use.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser has a durable metal frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the BodyHealt pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser is 19 inches long, 14.5 inches wide, and 9 inches high. Consequently, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser needs a clearance of at least 10 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays exercise time, count of revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser folds for easy storage as well as helps moving the exerciser from one place to another.

Pedals

In addition, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser's 4 inch wide pedals have grooves for improved hand grip and adjustable foot straps to hold feet on the pedals.

Sliding

Furthermore, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser has four anti-slip rubber pads on the two legs to prevent sliding on any surface while also protecting the floor and table from scratches and scuff marks.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust friction resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the BodyHealt pedal exerciser weighs less than 6 pounds.

Carex Foldable Under Desk Elliptical - Exercise Bike with Digital Display - Compact Exercise Equipment for Arms and Legs - Great for Elderly, Seniors, Disabled or Office Use

The Carex foldable pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Carex foldable pedal exerciser requires some simple assembly.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser has a metal frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Carex foldable pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser is 18.5 inches long, 14.5 inches wide, and 9.5 inches high. Consequently, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays workout time, count of revolutions, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser folds for easy storage.

Pedals

In addition, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser's 4 inch wide pedals are 2 inches deep. Also, the pedals have adjustable Velcro foot straps to hold feet firmly to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser's pedal movements are quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser has four anti-slip rubber pads on the two legs to prevent sliding while also protecting the floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Carex foldable pedal exerciser, weighs only 5.5 pounds.

MOMODA Stationary Pedal Exerciser Desk Cycle Exercise Bike with LCD Monitor Foldable (Black/Blue)

The MOMODA pedal exerciser described below was designed to help you get some exercise, lose weight, and stay active while sitting for long periods of time.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered MOMODA pedal exerciser is fully assembled and ready for use.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the MOMODA pedal exerciser has a frame made from reinforced steel pipes and ABS plastic. In addition, to prevent heat burns, heat-insulating foam wrap the two pedal cranks.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the MOMODA pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Momoda pedal exerciser is 20.9 inches long and 14.2 inches wide. Also, the highest point of the pedal is 13 inches off the floor. Consequently, the Momoda pedal exerciser needs a clearance of at least 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays workout time, count of revolutions, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan sequentially displays the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Momoda pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Momoda pedal exerciser, when folded, is 12.6 inches long, 14.2 inches wide, and 6.7 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the Momoda pedal exerciser has pedals with grooves for gripping and adjustable foot straps to hold feet.to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the pedal movements are smooth and quiet. 

Sliding

Furthermore, the Momoda pedal exerciser has four large anti-slip rubber feet on the two legs to prevent sliding while also protecting the floor. 

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust the light resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Momoda pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Momoda pedal exerciser, weighs only 4.6 pounds.

PROS

Goplus Portable Pedal Exerciser Adjustable Resistance Indoor Mini Lightweight Exercise Bike for Arms and Legs

The Goplus portable pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Goplus portable pedal exerciser is almost fully assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to attach the pedals and screw on the tension knob.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser has a heavy duty iron frame and ABS plastic for pedals.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Goplus portable pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser is 19.5 inches long and 14 inches wide. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 9.5 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays workout time, count of revolutions, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser folds for easy storage.

Pedals

In addition, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser's pedals have grooves for gripping and adjustable foot straps to hold feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser's pedal movements are quiet.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser has four anti-slip and anti-scuff feet pads on the two legs to prevent sliding while also protecting the floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. 

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Next,  the Goplus portable pedal exerciser, weighs 13 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Goplus portable pedal exerciser, is limited to anyone weighing less than 250 pounds.

Video Showing Folding Pedals in Use

How do you Evaluate these Pedals?

In fact, use the factors described below to grade these folding pedals.

Assembly

First, assembling the pedal exerciser should be easy. In fact, the less assembly required, the better.

Construction

Next, a pedal exerciser made of heavy-duty alloys or steel is preferable. At least the frame must be metal. And, since you may push them hard, the pedals need to be made from heavy duty plastic such as ABS or better. Indeed, the more solid the construction, the longer the pedal exerciser will last, and more stable it will be.

Display

Display helps you keep track of your workouts. Example of workout measurements include exercise time, revolutions (or rotations), revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Moreover, you use this information to monitor your progress over time, or simply to ensure you met your daily target.

Exercise

Most of all, a pedal exerciser exercising both arms and legs gives you more options.

Feet

Most of all, the feet are generally made from heavy duty rubber or other similar material to protect the floor and/or the table from scratches and marks. Also, the feet help prevent the pedal exerciser from from sliding as you pedal. Indeed, nearly all pedal exercisers are lightweight weighing less than 15 pounds. In addition, most people try to use the pedals as they would a recumbent bike – namely by pushing the pedals away from you. This pushing action is a consequence of the chair being behind the pedal exerciser – as with a recumbent bike. Moreover, this pushing action pushes the pedal exerciser away from you. So instead of pushing on the pedals, push the pedals down towards the floor. Consequently, the pedal exerciser may stay in place as you peddle.

Especially relevant, several pedal exercisers provide straps to tie the pedal exercise to the chair. On the other hand, if you choose one without the straps, there are ways to prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding.

Foldable

Next, a foldable pedal exerciser makes it easier to store it in small spaces. In addition, foldable exercisers are easier to carry around.

Footprint

Most of all, the footprint tells you how much space the pedal exerciser is going to need, so you can decide if the pedal exerciser is going to fit where you intend to use it.

Noise

Because the pedal exercisers are likely to be used in office environments or while watching TV or reading a book, they need to run as quietly as possible. Most of all, pedal exercisers using magnetic resistance run quieter. On the other hand, pedal exercisers that use friction for resistance tend to be noisy. To reduce this noise, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Pedals

Most of all, to drive the pedals with your feet, the pedals need to be non-slip or else your feet will not grip the pedals. In addition, pedal straps help grab your feet to the pedal. Moreover, the pedal straps need to be adjustable to accommodate various foot sizes.

Storage

Foldable pedal exercisers take up less space in storage.

Tension

Tension is sometimes referred to as resistance. And, nearly all pedal exercisers provide the capability to adjust tension so that you can change your workout intensity. However, not all pedal exercisers provide markers that allow you to easily identify tension levels. Furthermore, such markers help you record tension levels of your workouts. And these markers are especially important, if the pedal exerciser is used by others.

Most noteworthy, tension based on friction will cause metal parts in the vicinity to heat up. Pedal exercisers that offer protection from contact with the heated parts are better than those which don’t. Furthermore, depending on the pedal speed, and the length of time pedaling, heating could start to be felt as soon as 15 minutes after starting. However, if you are pedaling slowly, heat from friction likely won’t be an issue. Be that as it may, you can reduce the build up of heat by lubricating. In fact, to lubricate, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Transportation

Because the pedal exercisers are used in front of a couch, on a table, among other places, being lightweight becomes an advantage in terms of moving it from one place to another.

Use

In addition, manufacturers design pedal exercisers for different use. So you want to look at pedal exercisers targeted to your need. For example, some pedal exercisers are designed for the handicapped, some for beginners. While others are designed for strengthening your arms and legs or used under a desk, while in the office or at home.

Warranty

The longer the warranty period the better you are protected against 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. In addition, a longer warranty period, implies that the pedal exerciser is better built to last a longer time.

Weight

Finally, pedal exercisers that weigh less are easier to carry around. On the other hand, heavier pedal exercisers offer more stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you are looking for essentially a pedal exerciser that:

What are Your Needs?

First and foremost, itemize what you want from a folding pedal exerciser. For example, the list below gives you a start.

Indeed, answers to these questions and others will help guide you to the folding pedal that's best for you.

What Problems do these Pedals Solve?

Hours Spent Sitting

Especially relevant, according to the 2017 American time use survey by Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American spent each day:

Indeed, for the most part, all these activities involve sitting. As a result, the average American spends 8.43 hours each day sitting. Furthermore, this number is in line with other surveys and studies on the subject of sitting.

Consequence of Too Much Sitting

Especially relevant, prolonged sitting on a regular basis results in health problems such as:

But most of all, prolonged sitting effects the muscles in the arms and the lower body.

Effect of Sitting on Arm Muscles

Most noteworthy, the major muscle groups in the arms are:

And, all of these arm muscles are affected by sitting too much. In fact, the triceps are a common area for fat deposits, meaning you’re most likely to notice excess, flabby skin in this area.

Effect of Sitting on Lower Body Muscles

Indeed, the legs contain the most muscle groups in your body. And, too much sitting causes the quads, hamstrings, and calves to change. In fact, these muscles become less toned as the muscles get smaller and less defined. Indeed, the effects are first seen on your upper legs and hips, where fat deposits are common. Above all, these changes are largely due to the fact that fat in this area tends to be less metabolically active than the fat in other areas of the body.

Next, the buttocks are made up of three major muscle groups: the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius and gluteus minimus. And, too much sitting causes these muscles to soften and become undefined, leaving your butt looking flat and misshapen. Moreover, as these muscles lose their tone, you may have difficulty maintaining good balance.

In fact, that’s where the foldable pedal exercisers help. Moreover, the foldable pedal exerciser is used while you are sitting on a chair to exercise your arms and legs.

How do these Pedals Solve the Problems?

How much does Physical Activity Help?

First and foremost, a study was published in the March 21 2019 edition of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. In fact, the study looked at 14 years of activity and inactivity data of 92,500 people. Meanwhile, one study group consisted of participants who were least active with less than 17 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. And, the study found that if these participants replaced just 30 minutes of sitting with light activity, their risk of premature death falls by 14 percent. On the other hand, if these participants replaced 30 minutes of sitting with moderate to vigorous physical activity, their risk of premature death fell by an even larger 45 percent.

Is there Proof that Using Pedals Really Helps Your Body?

First and foremost, many studies show that physical inactivity and sedentary work environments increases insulin resistance. Moreover, this increase in insulin resistance leads to higher risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Incidentally, University of Massachusetts researchers published a study in October 2018 issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Indeed, the study reported that pedaling while working improves the body’s insulin response.

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, pedaling is better than treadmill or standing desk because long periods of standing lowers productivity besides being tiring.

What Muscles does the Foldable Pedal Exerciser Help?

Above all, there are two ways the foldable pedal exerciser is used: one for exercising the arms and one for exercising the legs.

Exercising Arm Muscles

When used for exercising the arms, the pedal exerciser is on a table with you sitting in a chair. Furthermore, in this mode, the pedal exerciser is used to strengthen and tone the arms. In fact, the muscles exercised include the biceps, triceps, shoulders and forearms.

When used for exercising legs, the pedal exerciser is on the floor with you sitting in a chair behind it. Furthermore, in this mode, the pedal exerciser is used to strengthen and tone the legs. In fact, the muscles exercised include the hips flexors, glutes, calves, hamstrings and quadriceps.

Other Health Benefits

Above all, the foldable pedal exerciser helps you in the following ways.

How are these Pedals Used?

The Wrong Way

First and foremost, a pedal exerciser shouldn’t be used like a recumbent bike. Most noteworthy, when you use a recumbent bike, because the seat is somewhat away from the pedals, you end up pushing the pedals forward. So, if you do this with the pedal exerciser too far away from your chair, the pedal exerciser will either slide or tilt forward.

The Correct Way

Therefore, keep the pedal exerciser closer to the chair. And, don’t start pedaling until the pedal arm is in the 1 o’clock position. At that time, push the pedals downward towards the floor. And, make sure your toes are pointing forward not upwards. Consequently, you can pedal downward even when you are sitting on a low chair or couch. Moreover, when you are sitting in a low chair or couch, you work both the quads and the hamstrings.

Also, by starting at very little resistance you can learn the correct way to pedal. Most of all, focus on pedaling downwards. In addition, pedal for at least 15 minutes at very little resistance. Next, increase the resistance a little and pedal for another 15 minutes. And, repeat this sequence until you reach a resistance where you are comfortable pedaling.

Lower Body Workout

First, place pedal exerciser underneath your desk, or on the floor in front of a couch or chair. And do 20 minutes of pedaling with no resistance. Next, increase resistance and do another 20 minutes. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Arm Exercises

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, changing the resistance to make it somewhat of an effort. And do this for 15 minutes. Next, change direction and rotate pedals backwards for another 15 minutes. Repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretch Arm Muscles

Firstly, to stretch arm muscles, put elbow on the table with your arm bent, while keeping the other arm free. Secondly, position the top of your hand so that it is touching the pedal and grasp the pedals with fingers. Thirdly, starting with no resistance, slowly push down on the pedal. Next, pull the pedal back up. And, repeat with the other arm. Next, increase resistance and repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Strengthen Upper Body Muscles

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, starting at zero resistance And, do this for 10 minutes. Next, gradually increase time and resistance. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Knee Injury

Most of all, you can use the pedal exerciser to increase flexibility of muscles surrounding your injured knee. Firstly, sit in a firm but comfortable chair to stabilize your back. Secondly, place the pedal exerciser in front of you. Thirdly, place your feet on the pedals and slowly pedal with zero resistance. Next, gradually increase time and resistance and repeat, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretching Injured Knee

Finally, the pedal exerciser can be used as a stretching machine. Firstly, slide feet of the leg with injured knee in the pedal next to the floor. Secondly, rotate pedal to the highest height using the leg with injured knee. And hold that position. Next, gently push pedal back down and pull back up. And, repeat this sequence for 5 cycles.

Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

Comparison with Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

First and foremost, folding pedal exercisers have a circular motion of the lower legs and hence more circular movement of the knees. In addition, folding pedal exercisers exercise glutes, quads, hamstrings, and to a lesser extent the calves.

Meanwhile, the stepping action of sitting steppers requires pushing down on the pedals against hydraulic resistance. As a result, there is greater stress on the knees. But a better lower leg muscle workout, especially of the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves.

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

Links to Other Under Desk Pedal Exercisers

Medical Pedal Review - Best Medical Pedal Exerciser to be Strong

Elderly Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exerciser for the Elderly to be Healthy

Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exercisers to be Healthy

Links to Under Desk Steppers

Best  Under Desk Stepper When You Have to Sit

Links to Under Desk Ellipticals

Best Under Desk Elliptical to be Healthy

Best Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise Bikes to be Healthy

People spend an extraordinary amount of time sitting each day. Regrettably, too much sitting is not healthy. However, if you must sit, pedal exercisers like the under desk pedals and mini exercise bikes may help lessen some of the bad effects of sitting. Most noteworthy, these pedal exercisers are specially built for use while sitting to exercise legs. However, some pedal exercisers can also be used on a table to exercise arms.

Quick Navigation to Content Sections

Under Desk Pedal (for Exercising Legs) Reviews

DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser

The most popular DeskCycle has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered DeskCycle comes almost fully assembled. However, the DeskCycle comes with a combination screwdriver and wrench to complete the assembly in short order.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the DeskCycle under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the DeskCycle is 24 inches long, 20 inches wide and 10 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 10 inches above the floor. Consequently, the DeskCycle needs a clearance of 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays speed, time, distance, and calories burned with the touch of a button. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously. Incidentally, the  DeskCycle accumulates time to 1000 minutes, before resetting to zero.

And, for more convenience, a display stand allows you to see your workout data on your desk, instead of having to look at it underneath the desk or table.

Exercise

Most of all, the DeskCycle only exercises your legs.

Pedals

In addition, the DeskCycle has large pedals with adjustable Velcro straps. Meanwhile, the double weighted base keep the straps on top of the pedals, making it easier to insert your feet.

Pedal Movement

Next, the DeskCycle has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Meanwhile the pedal arm is 3.5 inches long. Especially relevant, the pedals use a belt to drive a high inertia flywheel. And, the high inertia flywheel results in smooth pedal rotations. Furthermore, the DeskCycle has 7 sealed hardened-steel bearings for years of maintenance free operation. Most of all, no lubrication needed.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to easily adjust your workout from easy to hard. In fact, the 8 calibrated resistance settings help you keep track of your workout intensities. Furthermore, the magnetic resistance results in quiet pedal rotation.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the DeskCycle comes with a full 1-year warranty on parts, labor, and shipping.

Weight

Finally, the DeskCycle weighs 23 pounds.

DeskCycle-2

Moreover, the DeskCycle-2 has these additional features.

Display

First of all, the DeskCycle-2 accumulates time to 10,000 minutes before resetting to zero. In addition, the LCD also displays revolutions per minute.

Height

Also, adjusting the front leg lets you set the maximum pedal height to either 9 or 10 inches. In fact, the lower pedal height gives you an extra inch of clearance between your knees and the underside of the desk. Consequently, the DeskCycle-2  can be used under desks as low as 27 inches by anyone who is 5’10” or shorter.

PROS

FitDesk Under Desk Cycle and Exercise Bike Peddler with Magnetic Resistance

The FitDesk under desk cycle has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the pedals, front and back support bars, and display need to be mounted on the FitDesk under desk cycle chassis.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the FitDesk under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table. For example, the FitDesk under desk cycle can be used with desks as low as 26 inches if you have the necessary clearance with a 26 inch desk.

Dimensions

In addition, the FitDesk under desk cycle is 24.5 inches long, 16 inches wide and 10 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 9.75 inches above the floor. Consequently, the FitDesk under desk cycle needs a clearance of 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, speed, distance, lifetime distance, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously. And, for more convenience, the removable display allows you to see your workout data on your desk, instead of having to look at it underneath the desk or table.

Exercise

Most of all, the FitDesk under desk cycle only exercises your legs.

Pedals

In addition, the FitDesk under desk cycle has large pedals with grooves that prevent the feet from slipping. However, there are no straps to grip your feet. On the other hand, having no straps does make it easier to put your feet on the pedals and start using the cycle.

Pedal Movement

Next, the FitDesk under desk cycle has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Especially relevant, pedals use twin belts to drive a balanced flywheel which results in whisper quiet and smooth operation. Consequently, the FitDesk is ideal for office use.

Tension

Next, tension is changed by the foot shifter. In fact, the foot shifter has 8 positions of magnetic resistance. Consequently, you can change the resistance without having to bend down.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the FitDesk under desk cycle comes with a 3-year parts replacement guarantee for all moving parts. Meanwhile, pedals are covered for 30 days.

Weight

Next, the FitDesk under desk cycle weighs 24 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the FitDesk under desk cycle, has no constraints on a user's weight to use the cycle.

PROS

Cycli Under Desk Cycle with Bluetooth, Premium Quality Portable Stationary Cycle for Calorie Burning

The Cycli under desk cycle has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Cycli under desk cycle is easy to assemble with the tools that came with the Cycli.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Cycli under desk cycle constructed from high quality steel with an aluminum frame. 

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Cycli under desk cycle under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table. In the meantime, the manufacturer states that the Cycli under desk cycle will work with desks 27 inches high. 

Dimensions

In addition, the Cycli under desk cycle's lowest pedal height is four inches above the floor, while the highest pedal height is 11 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Cycli under desk cycle needs a clearance of 12 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the touch screen display shows speed, time, distance, and calories burned. In addition, the Cycli under desk cycle is Bluetooth enabled so that you can see workout data on your cell phone.

Exercise

Most of all, the Cycli under desk cycle only exercises your legs.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Cycli under desk cycle uses magnetic resistance, which results in smooth and quiet operation. In fact, 8 levels of adjustable resistance available.

Warranty

Finally, the Cycli under desk cycle comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

PROS

Mini Exercise Bike (for Exercising Legs & Arms) Reviews

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike, Gray

The very popular Sunny SF-B0418 mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Sunny SF-B0418 comes almost fully assembled. In fact, only the two pedals and the two feet have to be attached.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Sunny SF-B0418 under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table. 

Dimensions

In addition, the Sunny SF-B0418 is 22 inches long, 18 inches wide and 14 inches high.  Consequently, the Sunny SF-B0418 needs a clearance of 15 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, an easy to read LCD screen displays distance (in miles), calories burned, time pedaled in hours and minutes, current revolutions per minute, and an odometer. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Sunny SF-B0418 exercises your arms and legs.

Handles

Next, the Sunny SF-B0418 has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move it from one place to another. Also, the handle has small finger grooves making it easy to grip the Sunny SF-B0418 while moving it.

Pedals

In addition, the Sunny SF-B0418 has oversized textured non-slip pedals with adjustable large heavy-duty plastic straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle. In addition, the pedals have small finger grooves making it easy to grip them when exercising the arms.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Sunny SF-B0418 has pedals that rotate in only the forward direction. Consequently, if you want to pedal in reverse, turn the Sunny SF-B0418 around. Especially relevant, the pedals use a belt to drive the flywheel. 

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to easily adjust your workout from easy to hard. In fact, 8 calibrated magnetic resistance settings help you keep track of your workout intensities. Furthermore, the magnetic resistance results in quiet pedal rotation.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Sunny SF-B0418 comes with a 1 year warranty for the frame and a 90 day warranty for all other parts.

Weight

Next, the Sunny SF-B0418 weighs only 21 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Sunny SF-B0418 is limited to anyone weighing less than 220 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Sunny SF-B0418 and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

CONS

Vive Pedal Exerciser - Stationary Exercise Leg Peddler - Low Impact, Portable Mini Cycle Bike for Under Your Office Desk - Slim Design for Arm or Foot - Small, Sitdown Recumbent Equipment Machine

The very popular Vive pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the pedals, front and back support bars have to be attached upon delivery. However, all necessary tools are provided.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Vive pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Vive pedal exerciser is 16 inches long, 13.75 inches wide and 12.5 inches high. Consequently, the Vive pedal exerciser needs a clearance of at least 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, a large easy to read LCD screen displays revolutions per minute, time, distance in miles, and calories burned with the touch of a button. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Vive pedal exerciser exercises your arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the Vive pedal exerciser has 4 inch wide pedals with a non-slip surface and adjustable toe loops to help keep your feet in place as you peddle. Also, the pedals have molded finger grips for exercising arms.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Vive pedal exerciser has non-slip, non-marking feet that ensure it stays in place while being used on hard floors, carpets, and table tops. And the low profile prevents the Vive pedal exerciser from wobbling and sliding.

Tension

Next, the tension knob, with marked resistance levels, makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard. Furthermore, resistance is provided by a strap around a flywheel.

Warranty

Finally, the Vive pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

CONS

MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser

The very popular MagneTrainer-ER has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the pedals, front and back support bars have to be attached upon delivery. However, all necessary tools are provided.

Construction

Most noteworthy, MagneTrainer-ER has a sturdy steel frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the MagneTrainer-ER  under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table. Moreover, the MagneTrainer-ER is likely usable under desks with 34 to 36 inches of clearance underneath.

Dimensions

In addition, the MagneTrainer-ER is 15.5 to 20 inches long, 15 inches wide and 18 inches high. However, the highest point of the pedal is 15 inches above the floor. Consequently, the MagneTrainer-ER needs a clearance of 16 inches for use under a desk or table. Also, the wide footprint provides excellent stability. In fact, both legs are over 15 inches wide which helps prevent the MagneTrainer-ER from wobbling.

DIsplay

Especially relevant, the electronic monitor displays speed, distance, time, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the MagneTrainer-ER exercises arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the MagneTrainer-ER has pedals with a non-slip surface and adjustable Velcro straps to grip your feet. Also, the pedals are molded with finger grooves that allow you to firmly grip them for exercising arms.

Pedal Movement

Next, the MagneTrainer-ER has pedals that rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedals drive the flywheel with wide 4V belts and heavy-duty pulleys. Moreover, the effective 39-pound flywheel helps keep the pedals moving smoothly and quietly.

Tension

Next, the tension knob provides 20 marked levels of magnetic resistance to adjust your workout. Indeed, the 5-rotation knob helps set resistance precisely.

Use

Most noteworthy, the MagneTrainer-ER is used in hospitals, physical therapy offices, nursing homes, assisted living facilities.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the MagneTrainer-ER comes with a full 1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee.

Weight

Finally, the MagneTrainer-ER weighs 23 pounds.

PROS

CONS

Pinty Pedal Exerciser Two Pedals Mini Exercise Bike Portable Under Desk Mini Cycle Bike Legs & Arms Exerciser with LCD Display

The Pinty pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Pinty pedal exerciser is almost completely assembled.  In fact, the only assembly required is to attach the pedals.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Pinty pedal exerciser  under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Pinty pedal exerciser is 16 inches long and 12.6 inches high. Consequently, the Pinty pedal exerciser needs a clearance of 13 inches for use under a desk or table. Also, the front feet are 9.8 inches long, while the rear feet are 13.8 inches long. Moreover, the low height means that you can also tuck away the Pinty pedal exerciser under your desk when you are done using it.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD monitor displays time, distance, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Pinty pedal exerciser exercises arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the Pinty pedal exerciser has pedals with adjustable toe loops to help keep your feet in place as you peddle. Also, there are two sets of pedals: one for exercising your legs, and one for exercising your arms. Moreover, the pedals are screwed in or out of the crank arm.

Pedal Movement

Next, the Pinty pedal exerciser's pedals rotate a 4.4 pound cast iron flywheel that improves stability and provides quiet operation.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Pinty pedal exerciser has four rubber wrapped non-skid feet that ensures the Pinty pedal exerciser stays in place on hard floors, carpets, and table tops.

Tension

Next, the tension knob provides continuous step-less resistance settings.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Pinty pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Pinty pedal exerciser weighs 13.2 pounds.

PROS

Titan Fitness Pedal Exerciser Mini Exercise Bike Cycle LCD Display

The Titan pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Titan pedal exerciser is almost completely assembled.  In fact, the only assembly required is to attach the pedals and the base.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Titan pedal exerciser has a durable metal frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Titan pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Titan pedal exerciser is 15.5 inches long, 15.5 inches wide and 12 inches high. Consequently, the Titan pedal exerciser needs a clearance of at least 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories.

Exercise

Most of all, the Titan pedal exerciser exercises arms and legs.

Pedals

Furthermore, the Titan pedal exerciser has 3.5 inches wide pedals with non-adjustable straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle.

Pedal Motion

Meanwhile, the Titan pedal exerciser can rotate the pedals in both the forward and backwards direction.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Titan pedal exerciser works well on carpets and floor mats.

Tension

Next, the tension knob provides 8 levels of resistance. 

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Titan pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Also, the Titan pedal exerciser weighs 9 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the weight capacity of the Titan pedal exerciser is 260 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may put too much weight on the Titan pedal exerciser, which may hinder the pedals from turning.

CONS

Stamina Mini Exercise Bike with Smooth Pedal System

The Stamina mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

Most noteworthy, no assembly is required. The Stamina mini exercise bike is ready to be used upon delivery.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Stamina mini exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Stamina mini exercise bike is 15 inches long, 13.5 inches wide and 12 inches high. Consequently, the Stamina mini exercise bike needs a clearance of 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the monitor displays workout time, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously. In addition, the monitor tilts upwards to improve visibility of workout data from your chair.

Exercise

Most of all, the Stamina mini exercise bike exercises both your arms and legs.

Handles

Next, the Stamina mini exercise bike has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move it from one place to another.

Pedals

Furthermore, the Stamina mini exercise bike has textured pedals that help prevent feet from slipping. In addition, straps grip your feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Stamina mini exercise bike can rotate the pedals in both forward and backwards direction.

Stability

In addition, the Stamina mini exercise bike's rubberized feet may slip on hard smooth floor. However, the Stamina mini exercise bike works fine on carpets.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to easily adjust the resistance of your workouts. However, the knob has no markings showing resistance levels.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Stamina mini exercise bike comes with a 1 year manufacturer's warranty for the frame and a 90 day manufacturer's warranty for all other parts.

Weight

Next, the Stamina mini exercise bike weighs 17 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Stamina mini exercise bike is limited to anyone weighing less than 250 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Stamina mini exercise bike and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

CONS

Mini Exercise Bike Portable Home Pedal Exerciser Gym Fitness Leg Arm Cardio Training Adjustable Resistance LCD Display Women Men

The Himaly mini exercise bike has the following features.

Construction

First and foremost, the Himaly mini exercise bike has a heavy duty plastic frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Himaly mini exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Himaly mini exercise bike is 15.98 inches long, 13.81 inches wide and 12.6 inches high. Consequently, the clearance has to be 13 inches or more to be able to use the Himaly mini exercise bike under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the large digital LCD displays time, revolutions per minute, distance, and calories burned. Also, the scan sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Himaly mini exercise bike exercises arms and legs.

Use

Moreover, the Himaly mini exercise bike can be used for rehab and by seniors.

Pedals

Furthermore, the Himaly mini exercise bike's oversized textured pedals have anti-slip features to prevent your feet from slipping. In addition, adjustable toe straps help grip your feet to the pedals.

Pedal Movement

While the pedal rotations are quiet, they are not as smooth as some others.

Sliding

Furthermore, the non-skid rubber feet pads provide stability during use. In addition, the rubber feet won’t scratch smooth surfaces such as a table top or floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance. However, the knob has no markings showing resistance levels. Meanwhile, the Himaly mini exercise bike provides low resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Himaly mini exercise bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Himaly mini exercise bike, weighs only 8.8 pounds.

PROS

CONS

Pedal Exerciser - Under Desk Mini Exercise Bike, Arm & Leg Portable Foot Cycle Pedal Machine with LCD Screen Display(Silver)

The AGM pedal exerciser has the following features.

Desk or Table Use

First and foremost, to use the AGM pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the AGM pedal exerciser is 16.1 inches long, 13.8 inches wide, and 12.6 inches high. Consequently, the clearance has to be 13 inches or more to be able to use the AGM pedal exerciser under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, distance, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories burned. Also, the scan sequentially displays all the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the AGM pedal exerciser exercises arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the AGM pedal exerciser's non-slip pedals have adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals.

Sliding

Furthermore, the AGM pedal exerciser has non-slip rubber feet pads that provide stability during use. In addition, the rubber feet won’t scratch the floor.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the AGM pedal exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the AGM pedal exerciser, weighs only 8.12 pounds.

CONS

Merax Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike Portable Arm and Leg Exerciser Stationary Leg Peddler, Gray

The Merax mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the Merax mini exercise bike is delivered almost completely assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to attach the pedals and straps.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Merax mini exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Merax mini exercise bike is 17.7 inches long, 13.8 inches wide, 11.8 inches high. Consequently, the clearance has to be 13 inches or more to be able to use the Merax mini exercise bike under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, speed, distance, and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Merax mini exercise bike exercises arms and legs.

Handles

Next, the Merax mini exercise bike has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move it from one place to another.

Pedals

In addition, the Merax mini exercise bike's non-slip pedals have adjustable straps that hold the feet to the pedals. Because the pedals have a non-slip surface, the hands can grip them for exercising the arms. Also, pedal centers are 12 inches apart

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Merax mini exercise bike can rotate the pedals in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, magnetic resistance gives a quiet and smooth workout.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to select 8 levels of magnetic resistance settings.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Merax mini exercise bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Next, the Merax mini exercise bike, weighs 14 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Merax mini exercise bike is limited to anyone weighing less than 220 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Merax mini exercise bike and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

CONS

Tunturi Cardio Fit Series Mini Exercise Bike M-30

The Tunturi mini exercise bike has the following features.

Desk or Table Use

First and foremost, to use the Tunturi mini exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Tunturi mini exercise bike is 18 inches long, 15 inches wide, 11 inches high. Consequently, the clearance has to be 12 inches or more to be able to use the Tunturi mini exercise bike under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD display shows speed, elapsed time, distance, revolutions per minute, calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays each of the workout measures continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Tunturi mini exercise bike exercises arms and legs.

Handles

Next, the Tunturi mini exercise bike has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move it from one place to another.

Pedals

In addition, the Tunturi mini exercise bike's pedals have foot straps that hold the feet to the pedals. 

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Tunturi mini exercise bike's pedals use a belt to drive the 1.7 pound flywheel. Consequently, pedal movements are quiet and smooth.

Tension

Next, the tension knob provides stepless adjustable resistance with no markers. Moreover, the brake pad provides the resistance.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Tunturi mini exercise bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Next, the Tunturi mini exercise bike, weighs 10 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Tunturi mini exercise bike is limited to anyone weighing less than 220 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Tunturi mini exercise bike and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

CONS

Marcy NS-9200 Portable Magnetic Cardio Mini Cycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser

The Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser is delivered almost completely assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to attach the pedals and rubber feet.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser is 22 inches long, 16 inches wide, 14.5 inches high. Consequently, the clearance has to be 16 inches or more to be able to use the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays each of the workout measurements continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser exercises arms and legs.

Handles

Next, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move it from one place to another.

Pedals

In addition, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser's grooved pedals provide maximum hand grip while the textured pedals provide maximum foot grip.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser rotates the pedals in both forward and backwards direction. In addition, the magnetic resistance gives a quiet and smooth workout.

Skidding

Furthermore, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser has rubberized feet to minimize skidding.

Tension

Next, the tension knob is used to adjust magnetic resistance. Also, the knob has markings from one to ten to help you keep track of workout intensity.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Weight

Next, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser, weighs 26 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser is limited to anyone weighing less than 250 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Marcy NS-9200 pedal exerciser and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

CONS

Video Showing Pedals in Use

How do you Evaluate these Machines?

In fact, use the factors described below to grade these pedal exercisers and mini exercise bikes.

Assembly

First, assembling the pedal exerciser should be easy. In fact, the less assembly required, the better.

Construction

Next, a pedal exerciser made of heavy-duty alloys or steel is preferable. At least the frame must be metal. And, since you may push them hard, the pedals need to be made from heavy duty plastic such as ABS or better. Indeed, the more solid the construction, the longer the pedal exerciser will last, and more stable it will be.

Display

Displays help you keep track of your workouts. Example of workout measurements include revolutions, time, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Moreover, you use this information to monitor your progress over time, or simply to ensure you met your daily target.

Exercise

Most of all, a pedal exerciser exercising both arms and legs gives you more options.

Feet

Most of all, the feet are generally made from heavy duty rubber or other similar material to protect the floor and/or the table from scratches and marks. Also, the feet help prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding as you pedal. Indeed, nearly all pedal exercisers are lightweight weighing less than 26 pounds. In addition, most people try to use the pedals as they would a recumbent bike – namely by pushing the pedals away from you. This pushing action is a consequence of the chair being behind the pedal exerciser – as with a recumbent bike. Moreover, this pushing action pushes the pedal exerciser away from you. So instead of pushing on the pedals, push the pedals down towards the floor. Consequently, the pedal exerciser may stay in place as you peddle.

Especially relevant, several pedal exercisers provide straps to tie the pedal exercise to the chair. On the other hand, if you choose one without the straps, there are ways to prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding.

Footprint

Most of all, the footprint tells you how much space the pedal exerciser is going to need, so you can decide if the pedal exerciser is going to fit where you intend to use it.

Handle

A handle makes it easier to move the pedal exerciser around with one hand.

Height

If the pedal exerciser is going to be used under a desk, you need to measure the distance between the top of your knee, when sitting on a chair, and the floor with your shoes on. Next you need to measure the highest point the top of the pedal reaches above the floor. Next, the sum of these two numbers needs to be less than the distance between the underside of the table or desk top and the floor.

Noise

Because the pedal exercisers are likely to be used in office environments or while watching TV or reading a book, they need to run as quietly as possible. Most of all, pedal exercisers using magnetic resistance run quieter. On the other hand, pedal exercisers that use friction for resistance tend to be noisy. To reduce this noise, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Pedals

Most of all, to drive the pedals with your feet, the pedals need to be non-slip or else your feet will not grip the pedals. In addition, pedal straps help grab your feet to the pedal. Moreover, the pedal straps need to be adjustable to accommodate various shoe sizes.

Tension

Tension is sometimes referred to as resistance. And, nearly all pedal exercisers provide the capability to adjust tension so that you can change your workout intensity. However, not all pedal exercisers provide markers that allow you to easily identify tension levels. Furthermore, such markers help you record tension levels of your workouts. And these markers are especially important, if the pedal exerciser is used by others.

Most noteworthy, tension based on friction will cause metal parts in the vicinity to heat up. Pedal exercisers that offer protection from contact with the heated parts are better than those which don’t. Furthermore, depending on the pedal speed, and the length of time pedaling, heating could start to be felt as soon as 15 minutes after starting. However, if you are pedaling slowly, heat from friction likely won’t be an issue. Be that as it may, you can reduce the build up of heat by lubricating. In fact, to lubricate, take the tension knob out and put graphite powder in the tension knob’s hole. And then screw back the tension knob.

Transportation

Because the pedal exercisers are used under the desk, in front of a couch, on a table, among other places, being lightweight becomes an advantage in terms of moving it from one location to another.

Use

In addition, manufacturers design pedal exercisers for different use. So, you want to look at pedal exercisers targeted to your need. For example, some pedal exercisers are designed for the handicapped, some for beginners. While others are designed for strengthening your arms and legs or used under a desk, while in the office or at home.

Warranty

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

Weight

Finally, pedal exercisers that weigh less are easier to carry around. On the other hand, heavier pedal exercisers offer more stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you are looking for essentially a pedal exerciser that:

What are Your Needs?

First and foremost, itemize what you want from a pedal exerciser or mini exercise bike. For example, the list below gives you a start.

Indeed, answers to these questions and others will help guide you to the pedal exerciser or mini exercise bike that's best for you.

Hours Spent Sitting

According to the 2017 American time use survey by Bureau of Labor Statistics, part of the average American’s time each day is spent as follows:

For the most part, all these activities involve sitting. As a result, the average American spends 8.43 hours each day sitting.  Most noteworthy, this number is consistent with other surveys and studies on sitting.

Consequences of Too Much Sitting

Especially relevant, prolonged sitting on a regular basis results in health problems such as:

But most of all, prolonged sitting effects muscles in the arms and the lower body.

Effect of Sitting on Arm Muscles

The major muscle groups in the arms are:

All these arm muscles are affected by sitting too much. In fact, the triceps are a common area for fat deposits, meaning you’re most likely to notice excess, flabby skin in this area.

Effect of Sitting on Lower Body Muscles

The legs contain the most muscle groups in your body. Too much sitting causes the quads, hamstrings, and calves to change. In fact, these muscles become less toned as the muscles get smaller and less defined. Indeed, the effects are first seen on your upper legs and hips, where fat deposits are common. These changes are largely because fat in this area tends to be less metabolically active than fat in other areas of the body.

Next, the buttocks are made up of three major muscle groups: the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus. Too much sitting causes these muscles to soften and become undefined, leaving the butt looking flat and misshapen. Moreover, as these muscles lose their tone, you may have difficulty maintaining good balance.

That’s where under desk pedals and mini exercise bikes help. In fact, under desk pedals are used to exercise legs while working at a desk. Furthermore, mini exercise bikes are used when sitting in a chair to exercise arms and legs.

How do these Machines Solve the Problems?

How much does Physical Activity Help?

First and foremost, a study was published in the March 21 2019 edition of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. In fact, the study looked at 14 years of activity and inactivity data of 92,500 people. Meanwhile, one study group consisted of participants who were least active with less than 17 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. And, the study found that if these participants replaced just 30 minutes of sitting with light activity, their risk of premature death falls by 14 percent. On the other hand, if these participants replaced 30 minutes of sitting with moderate to vigorous physical activity, their risk of premature death fell by an even larger 45 percent.

Is there Proof that Using Pedal Exercisers Really Helps Your Body?

First and foremost, many studies show that physical inactivity and sedentary work environments increases insulin resistance. Moreover, this increase in insulin resistance leads to higher risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Incidentally, University of Massachusetts researchers published a study in October 2018 issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Indeed, the study reported that pedaling while working improves the body’s insulin response.

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, pedaling is better than treadmill or standing desk because long periods of standing lowers productivity besides being tiring.

Exercising Leg Muscles

Leg muscles are exercised by both the under desk pedals and the mini exercise bikes. In each case, the exerciser is set on the floor with you sitting in a chair behind it. Furthermore, in this mode, the exerciser is used to strengthen and tone legs. Especially relevant, the muscles exercised include the hips flexors, glutes, calves, hamstrings and quadriceps.

Exercising Arm Muscles

Only the mini exercise bikes are used for exercising arms. In fact, the mini exercise bike is placed on a table while you are sitting in a chair. Furthermore, in this mode, the mini exercise bike is used to strengthen and tone arms. Especially relevant, the muscles exercised include the biceps, triceps, shoulders and forearms.

Other Health Benefits

Both under desk pedals and mini exercise bikes provide the following benefits:

Only the mini exercise bike strengthens and tones arms. In fact, the mini exercise bike exercises biceps, triceps, shoulders and forearms.

How are these Machines Used?

The Wrong Way

First and foremost, a pedal exerciser shouldn’t be used like a recumbent bike. Most noteworthy, when you use a recumbent bike, because the seat is somewhat away from the pedals, you end up pushing the pedals forward. So, if you do this with the pedal exerciser too far away from your chair, the pedal exerciser will either slide or tilt forward.

The Correct Way

Therefore, keep the pedal exerciser closer to the chair. And, don’t start pedaling until the pedal arm is in the 1 o’clock position. At that time, push the pedals downward towards the floor. And, make sure your toes are pointing forward not upwards. Consequently, you can pedal downward even when you are sitting on a low chair or couch. Moreover, when you are sitting in a low chair or couch, you work both the quads and the hamstrings.

Also, by starting at very little resistance you can learn the correct way to pedal. Most of all, focus on pedaling downwards. In addition, pedal for at least 15 minutes at very little resistance. Next, increase the resistance a little and pedal for another 15 minutes. And, repeat this sequence until you reach a resistance where you are comfortable pedaling.

Lower Body Workout

First, place pedal exerciser underneath your desk, or on the floor in front of a couch or chair. And do 20 minutes of pedaling with no resistance. Next, increase resistance and do another 20 minutes. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Arm Exercises

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, changing the resistance to make it somewhat of an effort. And do this for 15 minutes. Next, change direction and rotate pedals backwards for another 15 minutes. Repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretch Arm Muscles

Firstly, to stretch arm muscles, put elbow on the table with your arm bent, while keeping the other arm free. Secondly, position the top of your hand so that it is touching the pedal and grasp the pedals with fingers. Thirdly, starting with no resistance, slowly push down on the pedal. Next, pull the pedal back up. And, repeat with the other arm. Next, increase resistance and repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Strengthen Upper Body Muscles

First, place pedal exerciser on a table with rubber mat. Next, grab pedals by the hands and rotate them forward, starting at zero resistance And, do this for 10 minutes. Next, gradually increase time and resistance. And, repeat sequence, as necessary, to complete workout.

Knee Injury

Most of all, you can use the pedal exerciser to increase flexibility of muscles surrounding your injured knee. Firstly, sit in a firm but comfortable chair to stabilize your back. Secondly, place the pedal exerciser in front of you. Thirdly, place your feet on the pedals and slowly pedal with zero resistance. Next, gradually increase time and resistance and repeat, as necessary, to complete workout.

Stretching Injured Knee

Finally, the pedal exerciser can be used as a stretching machine. Firstly, slide feet of the leg with injured knee in the pedal next to the floor. Secondly, rotate pedal to the highest height using the leg with injured knee. And hold that position. Next, gently push pedal back down and pull back up. And, repeat this sequence for 5 cycles.

Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

Comparison with Other Under Desk Exercise Machines

First and foremost, under desk pedals have a circular motion of the lower legs and hence more circular movement of the knees. In addition, under desk pedals exercise glutes, quads, hamstrings, and to a lesser extent the calves.

Meanwhile, the stepping action of sitting steppers requires pushing down on the pedals against hydraulic resistance. As a result, there is greater stress on the knees. But a better lower leg muscle workout, especially of the glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves.

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

Links to Other Under Desk Pedal Exercisers

Folding Pedal Review - Best Folding Pedal Exerciser to be Healthy

Medical Pedal Review - Best Medical Pedal Exerciser to be Strong

Elderly Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exerciser for the Elderly to be Healthy

Motorized Pedal Review - Best Motorized Pedal Exerciser for Incapacitated to be Strong

Pedal Review - Best Pedal Exercisers to be Healthy

Links to Under Desk Steppers

Best Under Desk Stepper When You Have to Sit

Links to Under Desk Ellipticals

Best Under Desk Elliptical to be Healthy

Best Pedal Exerciser for the Elderly to be Healthy

Seniors and the elderly spend an extraordinary amount of time sitting each day. Regrettably, sitting has many negative consequences. However, if you must sit, exercise gear like the pedal exerciser for elderly may help lessen some of the bad consequences. Most noteworthy, these pedal exercisers are specially built for the elderly and seniors. For example, they are not heavy, thereby allowing the elderly to lift them on to a table for exercising their arms or storing them away after use.

Quick Navigation to Content Sections

What are these Pedals?

Above all, the pedal exercisers described below are designed mostly for use by the elderly and seniors. As a result, these pedal exercisers are not designed for heavy duty use, such as trying to lose weight, but rather to help your arms and legs stay healthy. Especially noteworthy, tube framed pedal exercisers offer light resistance, while the cased body pedal exercisers offer higher resistance.

Elderly Pedal Reviews

Vive Desk Cycle - Foot Pedal Exerciser - Foldable Portable Foot, Hand, Arm, Leg Exercise Pedaling Machine - Folding Mini Stationary Bike Pedaler, Fitness Rehab Gym Equipment for Seniors, Elderly, PT

The most popular Vive Desk Cycle has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Vive Desk Cycle comes almost fully assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to screw in the tension knob.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Vive Desk Cycle under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Vive Desk Cycle is 19 inches long, 14.5 inches wide and 9 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 12 inches above the floor. Consequently, the Vive Desk Cycle needs a clearance of 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, a large, easy to read LCD screen displays, with the touch of a button, revolutions per minute, time, speed and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Vive Desk Cycle exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Vive Desk Cycle is easily folded for storage. As a result, the Vive Desk Cycle doesn't take up floor space when not in use. 

Pedals

In addition, the Vive Desk Cycle has four inch wide pedals with a non-slip surface and adjustable toe loops to help keep your feet in place as you peddle.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Vive Desk Cycle has non-slip, non-marking feet that ensure it stays in place while being used on hard floors, carpets, and table tops. And the low profile prevents the Vive Desk Cycle from wobbling and sliding.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance, thereby making it easy to adjust your workouts from easy to hard.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Vive Desk Cycle comes with a one year manufacturer's guarantee.

Weight

Finally, the Vive Desk Cycle weighs only 5.15 pounds.

PROS

B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser - Under Desk Exercise Machine - Arm & Leg Exercise Peddler - Folding Low Impact Exercise Bike for Seniors and Elderly

The very popular B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser comes almost fully assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to insert a tightening screw.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has a triple-layered chrome-plated steel frame, which provides stability and lifetime durability. In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser is powder coated. As a result, the surface will be more resistant against scratches, chipping, wear, and fading as compared to other type of finishes.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser is 19.6 inches long, 14.5 inches wide and 9 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 13.5 inches above the floor. Consequently, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser needs a clearance of 14 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, an easy to read LCD screen displays, with the touch of a button, revolutions per minute, time, speed, distance, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser is easily folded for storage. As a result, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser doesn't take up floor space when not in use. Especially relevant, the folded size is 14.8 inches long, 14.5 inches wide, and 8 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has 4 inch wide pedals with adjustable toe loops to help keep your feet in place as you peddle.

Sliding

Furthermore, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser has anti-slip, triangular rubber pads that protect the surface and ensures it stays in place while being used on hard floors, carpets, and table tops. In addition, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser can be tied to a chair by fixing straps so that the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser doesn't slide away while being used.

Tension

Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser comes with a one year manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the B BAIJIAWEI Portable Pedal Exerciser, weighs only 6.6 pounds.

PROS

Carex Foldable Under Desk Elliptical - Exercise Bike with Digital Display - Compact Exercise Equipment for Arms and Legs - Great for Elderly, Seniors, Disabled or Office Use

The very popular Carex foldable under desk exercise bike has the following features.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike has an all metal frame.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Carex foldable under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike is 18.5 inches long, 14.5 inches wide and 9.5 inches high. Consequently, the Carex foldable needs a clearance of at least 11 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, an easy to read LCD screen displays, with the touch of a button,  revolutions, time, and calories burned. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike is easily folded for storage. As a result, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike doesn't take up floor space when not in use

Pedals

In addition, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike has 4 inch wide, 2 inch deep pedals. Also, the pedals have adjustable Velcro straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle.

Tension

Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from very little resistance to some.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Carex foldable under desk exercise bike weighs only 5.5 pounds.

EF Pedal Exerciser Mini Stationary Bike,Foot Peddler Treadmill Seated Chair Cycler for Seniors and Elderly,Arms and Legs Workout with LCD Molitor,Folding Exercise Bike

The popular EF Pedal Exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered EF Pedal Exerciser comes almost fully assembled. In fact, all that's needed is to attach the pedals.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the EF Pedal Exerciser has a strong steel frame which prevents wobbling.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the EF Pedal Exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the EF Pedal Exerciser is 17.5 inches long, 14 inches wide and 10.5 inches high. Consequently, the EF Pedal Exerciser needs a clearance of at least 12 inches for use under a desk or table.

Exercise

Most of all, the EF Pedal Exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the EF Pedal Exerciser is foldable.

Pedals

In addition, the EF Pedal Exerciser has pedals with adjustable four position straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle away.

Sliding

Furthermore, the EF Pedal Exerciser has non-skid ribbed triangular rubber feet that provide traction and stability. In addition, the rubber feet ensures it stays in place while being used on hard floors, carpets, and table tops.

Tension

Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard.

Weight

Finally, the  EF Pedal Exerciser weighs only 5,75 pounds.

CONS

Pedal Exerciser Mini Stationary Bike,Foot Peddler Treadmill Seated Chair Cycler for Seniors and Elderly,Arms and Legs Workout with LCD Molitor,Folding Exercise Bike,Fully Assembled

The Enstver Pedal Exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Enstver Pedal Exerciser comes almost fully assembled. In fact, the only assembly required is to screw in the tension knob.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser has a strong steel frame that prevents wobbling.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Enstver Pedal Exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser is 18 inches long, 15 inches wide and 10 inches high to the top of the tension knob. However, the highest point of the pedal is more than 10 inches. Consequently this highest point of the pedal is the clearance you need for using under a desk of table.

Display

Especially relevant, a large, easy to read LCD screen displays, with the touch of a button, revolutions per minute, time, speed and calories burned.

Exercise

Most of all, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser is easily folded for storage. As a result, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser doesn't take up floor space when not in use. 

Pedals

In addition, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser has pedals with adjustable toe loops to help keep your feet in place as you peddle.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser has non-skid ribbed reinforced rubber feet that provide traction on most floors, tables, and surfaces.

Tension

Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard.

Warranty

Finally, the Enstver Pedal Exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

PROS

Banghotfire Mini Excercise Bike Pedal Arm and Leg Exerciser for Seniors, Under Desk Bike with Adjustable Resistance Knob

The Banghotfire mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, some assembly of the  Banghotfire mini exercise bike is needed.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike has a sturdy metal frame, In addition, ABS plastic is used for some parts.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Banghotfire mini exercise bike under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike is 14.2 inches long and 11.8 inches high.  Consequently, the  Banghotfire mini exercise bike needs a clearance of 13 inches for use under a desk or table.

Display

Especially relevant, a multi-function LCD monitor displays time, distance, total revolutions, and calories.

Exercise

Most of all, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike exercises both arms and legs.

Pedals

In addition, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike's pedals have comfortable straps to keep your feet in place.

Sliding

Furthermore, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike has non-slip feet  that provide stability.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to adjust resistance, thereby making it easy to adjust your workouts from easy to hard.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Next, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike weighs 7.28 pounds.

Weight Capacity

Finally, the Banghotfire mini exercise bike, is limited to anyone weighing less than 265 pounds. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the Banghotfire mini exercise bike and potentially cause it to break.

PROS

Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser - Portable Desk Cycle - Hand, Arm & Leg Exercise Peddling Machine - Low Impact, Adjustable Fitness Rehab Equipment for Seniors, Elderly - Folding Mini Stationary Bike

The Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser comes almost fully assembled. In fact, screwing on the tension knob is the only assembly required.

Construction

Most noteworthy, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser has a strong iron frame. In addition, the frame is powder coated. As a result, the surface will be more resistant against scratches, chipping, wear, and fading compared to other type of finishes.

Desk or Table Use

Also, to use the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser under a desk or table, sit on a chair and measure the clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of the desk or table.

Dimensions

In addition, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser is 19.6 inches long, 14.5 inches wide and 12.6 inches high with the pedal parallel to the surface. Consequently, the highest height the pedals reach will be greater than 12.6 inches. And that distance is the clearance you will need to use the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser under a desk or table. 

Display

Especially relevant, the electronic display shows revolutions, exercise time, revolutions per minute, and calories burned with the touch of a button. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays the workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser exercises both arms and legs.

Foldability

Next, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser is easily folded for storage. As a result, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser doesn't take up floor space when not in use. Moreover, the folded size is 14.8 inches long, 14.5 inches wide, and 8 inches high.

Pedals

In addition, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser has 4 inch wide pedals with adjustable straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle. Also, the pedal's cranks are covered with insulation to protect legs when the rods get hot from the friction resistance.

Skidding

Furthermore, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser has four oversized anti-slip rubber pads to prevent the bike from sliding while pedaling. Also, the pads make it more stable to pedal while also protecting mounting surfaces. In addition, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser can be tied to a chair by fixing straps so that the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser doesn't slide away while being used.

Tension

Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty.

Weight

Finally, the Cozylifeunion Pedal Exerciser, weighs only 6.6 pounds.

PROS

How do you Evaluate these Pedals?

In fact, use the factors described below to grade these pedal exercisers.

Assembly

First, assembling the pedal exerciser should be easy. In fact, the less assembly required, the better.

Construction

Next, it is preferable that the pedal exerciser be made of heavy-duty alloys or steel. At least the frame must be metal. And, since you may push them hard, the pedals need to be made from heavy duty plastic such as ABS or better. Indeed, the more solid the construction, the longer the pedal exerciser for elderly will last, and more stable it will be.

Display

Meanwhile, displays help you keep track of your workouts. For example, workout measurements include revolutions (or rotations), time, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. Moreover, you use this information to monitor your progress over time, or simply to ensure you met your daily target.

Exercise

Also, a pedal exerciser exercising both arms and legs gives you more flexibility.

Feet

Most of all, the feet are generally made from heavy duty rubber or other similar material to protect the floor and/or the table from scratches and marks. Also, the feet helps prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding as you pedal. Indeed, all the pedal exercisers, described here, are lightweight weighing less than 10 pounds. In addition, most people try to use the pedals as they would a recumbent bike – namely by pushing the pedals away from you. This pushing action is a consequence of the chair being behind the pedal exerciser – as with a recumbent bike. Moreover, this pushing action pushes the pedal exerciser away from you. So instead of pushing on the pedals, push the pedals down towards the floor. Consequently, the pedal exerciser may stay in place as you peddle.

Especially relevant, several pedal exercisers provide straps to tie the pedal exercise to the chair. On the other hand, if you choose one without the straps, there are ways to prevent the pedal exerciser from sliding.

Foldable

Next, a foldable pedal exerciser makes it easier to store it in small spaces. In addition, foldable exercisers are easier to carry around.