For those spending considerable hours at a desk, integrating physical activity into the workday can be challenging. Enter Under Desk Bike Pedals, compact and effective devices designed to combat sedentary lifestyles. These small yet powerful machines offer a suite of health advantages, including improved hip and knee flexibility, enhanced circulation, and effective calorie burning, as highlighted by Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist. Latoya Julce, CPT, a certified personal trainer, further emphasizes that these office-compatible bikes discreetly fit under your desk, enabling you to pedal as you work—a seamless method to inject movement into your day.
To guide you in selecting the best under desk bike pedals, we consulted health and fitness experts on safe usage and essential features of high-quality models. Subsequently, we rigorously tested 33 under desk bike pedals over four weeks, integrating them into our daily work and exercise regimens. Our evaluations focused on setup ease, performance, features, and overall value, aiming to identify the market’s leading options.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike at Amazon $150
Best All-in-One:
Flexispot Home Office Height Adjustable Cycle Desk Bike at Amazon $600
Best Budget:
Vaunn Folding Pedal Exerciser at Amazon $40
Best With App:
Stamina Inmotion Elliptical at Amazon $120
Best Overall Elliptical-Style:
SALE
DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical at Amazon $219 $180
Best With Chair:
LifeSpan Ampera Office Bike at Amazon $999
Best Motorized:
SALE
Sunny Health & Fitness Motorized Electric Under Desk Bike at Amazon $220 $170
Best With Resistance Bands:
FlexCycle Exercise Bike at Amazon $160
Best Overall
DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike Pedals
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PHOTO: Amazon
$150 at Amazon View on Deskcycle-ia.com
Pros
- Compact design
- Impressively quiet with smooth pedaling action
- Quick assembly process with clear instructions
Cons
- Display is difficult to view
Key Specs
Style: Bike | Weight: 23 pounds | Resistance Levels: Eight | Features: Adjustable height, removable display, Apple Watch and Fitbit compatible | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It’s For
Ideal for individuals seeking a stable and exceptionally quiet under desk bike pedal with smooth pedaling and a broad spectrum of resistance.
Why We Love It
The DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike Pedals secured our top overall position thanks to its remarkably quiet and smooth pedaling, compact build, and easily adjustable resistance dial. We appreciate using this under desk bike pedal exerciser while managing emails and participating in virtual meetings, finding it a simple and unobtrusive method to increase movement during our workday. As part of our workout regimen, it serves as an excellent warm-up before runs, and we value its extensive range of resistance settings.
We were particularly impressed by the straightforward setup of this under desk bike pedal machine, which took only 15 minutes using the brand’s clear instructions. It maintains stability during use, regardless of resistance level. Additionally, the pedals are comfortable, even during extended sessions. We noted no wobbling or instability, a feature we highly valued.
Potential Flaws
- The LCD display’s placement, situated too far back, makes it challenging to view from a seated desk position—a minor inconvenience.
Most Valuable Insight
“This under desk bike pedal is impressively silent, allowing me to pedal discreetly during team meetings without any disruption. The pedaling motion is smooth, and I haven’t noticed any significant vibrations or noise, even when increasing the resistance. Its adjustable resistance provides a good range of difficulty, making it effective for a light workout or a more challenging session. Overall, it offers a consistent workout while being ideal for multitasking, especially during calls or while typing.” —Mathieu L., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Matt Lubi
Best All-in-One
Flexispot Home Office Height Adjustable Cycle Desk Bike
$600 at Amazon $453 $438 at Walmart
Pros
- Easily adjustable seat
- Stable base with wheels
- Can also be used as a standing desk
Cons
- Bike seat was slightly uncomfortable at first
- Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Style: Bike | Weight: 75 pounds | Resistance Levels: Eight | Features: Adjustable desk and seat position, wheels for easy portability, cup holder | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who It’s For
Best suited for home-based workers desiring a compact, highly adjustable under desk bike pedal that doubles as a standing desk.
Why We Love It
Flexispot’s Home Office Cycle Desk Bike uniquely combines two functionalities—serving as both an exercise bike and a standing desk. Its robustness and adjustability are particularly commendable; both the bike seat and desk offer solid construction and easy adjustments to suit individual needs. During testing, this under desk bike pedal and desk combo provided a smooth and remarkably quiet experience. It was easily usable during meetings without causing any auditory disturbance. Despite incorporating a desk, its compact design allows it to fit neatly in a room corner and be moved effortlessly thanks to its wheeled base.
Assembly took under eight minutes, though the packaged product was somewhat heavy to carry upstairs. It offers a practical workspace alongside a great workout, complete with a cup holder, a spacious desk, adjustable resistance, and a battery-powered tracker. We also appreciate the desk’s versatility, allowing use as a standing desk by utilizing the side opposite the seat, further promoting movement during the workday.
Potential Flaws
- Initially, the seat felt slightly uncomfortable, but comfort improved with use up to 30 minutes.
- While feature-rich, it’s among the pricier under desk bike pedal options.
Most Valuable Insight
“I love that I can stand on the opposite end of the seat and raise the worktop high enough to use it as a standing desk as well.” —Shannon B., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer
Best Budget
Vaunn Folding Pedal Exerciser
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PHOTO: Amazon
$40 at Amazon $50 $40 at Walmart
Pros
- Lightweight, stable design
- Foldable for convenient storage
- Quick and easy setup
Cons
- May be noisier than other options
- Ride isn’t as smooth as other options
Key Specs
Style: Bike | Weight: 5 pounds | Resistance Levels: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Features: LCD display | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Who It’s For
Optimal for users seeking a basic, budget-friendly under desk bike pedal that is portable, affordable, and simple to set up and store.
Why We Love It
For those seeking an entry-level under desk bike pedal or a cost-effective choice, the Vaunn Medical Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser stands out. Its lightweight design and foldable legs are ideal for portability and storage. The LCD screen, tracking metrics like time and RPM, is a useful addition. A strap for securing the bike to a chair further enhances stability.
Testing revealed a straightforward setup, with the bike arriving nearly fully assembled. Its broad base ensures stability during use, though finding the most comfortable position took a few moments. Resistance adjustment is simple via a knob.
Potential Flaws
- It’s slightly noisier than other under desk bike pedal options, potentially less suitable for use during calls.
- The pedaling motion isn’t as fluid as higher-end models. However, considering its price and quality, it remains an excellent budget option.
Most Valuable Insight
“For the price, I could see this being a good entry-level option for someone who wants to test out an under desk bike pedal. It’s very lightweight and easily portable.” —Isabella B., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
Best With App
Stamina Inmotion Elliptical
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PHOTO: Amazon
$120 at Amazon View on Hsn.com View on Staminaproducts.com
Pros
- Feels stable, even during faster movement
- Forward or backward stride motion
- Wide, textured pedals offer secure grip
Cons
- Not as comfortable to use standing up
- LCD display is dark, making it difficult to read
Key Specs
Style: Elliptical | Weight: 24 pounds | Resistance Levels: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Features: Compatible app, LCD display | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Who It’s For
Perfect for users desiring a robust, stable under desk bike pedal alternative that integrates with an app offering assembly assistance, audio workouts, and more.
Why We Love It
Stamina’s InMotion Elliptical delivers a smooth and stable experience with easily adjustable resistance. Constructed with steel components, it feels durable and well-made, available in multiple colors. A standout feature is its compatibility with the müüv smart audio coaching app, offering assembly videos, personalized audio workouts, and iHeartRadio integration.
The LCD display tracks key metrics like strides, time, and calories. Wide, textured pedals comfortably accommodate feet and provide secure footing. The option to pedal forward or backward adds versatility. This mini elliptical remains stable even during faster pedaling.
Potential Flaws
- While advertised for standing use, it felt unstable and is not recommended for standing workouts.
- The LCD display, though informative, is dimly lit, reducing readability.
Most Valuable Insight
“This elliptical under desk pedal was easy to assemble, easy to use, and comfortable, and it supported both feet entirely. I used this every day while working at home and plan to continue doing so.” —Katrina C., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Katrina Cossey
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Katrina Cossey
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Katrina Cossey
Best Overall Elliptical-Style
DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical
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PHOTO: Amazon
Pros
- Comfortable, large pedals
- Eight resistance levels
- Carry handle for easy portability
Cons
- LCD display can be difficult to read
- Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Style: Elliptical | Weight: 30 pounds | Resistance Levels: Eight | Features: Removable LCD display, Fitbit- and Apple Watch-compatible, carry handle | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Who It’s For
Ideal for users seeking an exceptionally quiet elliptical under desk pedal alternative with adjustable resistance and easy portability.
Why We Love It
The DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical excelled as an elliptical-style machine in our tests. It includes all tools for quick assembly, completed in under 10 minutes. Its quiet and comfortable operation allowed for over 90 minutes of use without notice. Eight resistance levels easily adjust to fitness goals.
Testing showed it fits well under desks without chair adjustments, and a carry handle enhances portability. Large pedals accommodate various foot positions and sizes. Like DeskCycle’s bike pedal, this elliptical has a removable LCD display for convenient metric tracking. Though it doesn’t store stats, Fitbit and Apple Watch compatibility allows for long-term data tracking.
Potential Flaws
- The LCD display is small and lacks backlighting, making it harder to read.
- It’s pricier, but its features and quality justify the investment.
Most Valuable Insight
“I used this under desk elliptical pedal during a Zoom meeting, and after I was done, I asked the person on the other end if she could hear it or see my movement. She said she had no idea I was even using it!” —Hildara A., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Hildara Araya
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Hildara Araya
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Hildara Araya
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Hildara Araya
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Hildara Araya
Best With Chair
LifeSpan Ampera Office Bike
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PHOTO: LifeSpan
$999 at Amazon View on Lifespanfitness.com
Pros
- Quiet and comfortable
- Clear digital display
- Smooth and stable pedaling action
Cons
- Pricier than other options
- No advanced features
Key Specs
Style: Bike | Weight: 68 pounds | Resistance Levels: Four | Features: Adjustable seat height, two integrated lights with customizable color scheme, accompanying app, built-in wireless device charger | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who It’s For
Ideal for those with standing or adjustable desks seeking a quiet, comfortable under desk bike pedal with chair that provides a moderate workout.
Why We Love It
LifeSpan’s Ampera Desk Bike impressed with its quiet, smooth pedaling, stability, and comfortable seat. Its silent operation makes it ideal for calls or virtual meetings. Resistance levels adjust easily, transitioning from beginner to moderate workout intensity quickly.
Seat and pedals are comfortable for prolonged use. The clear digital display provides easy-to-read metrics like speed and distance. Regular use boosts energy and reduces fatigue, making it easy to add movement to the workday.
Potential Flaws
- It’s more expensive but justified by its comfort, stability, and quietness.
- Lacks advanced features like workout programs or Bluetooth connectivity.
Most Valuable Insight
“Cycling intermittently throughout the day helps boost my overall fitness levels without the need for extra workout time outside of work. It plays a positive role in managing my stress and mental well-being. The impact on my wellness is notable; I feel more energetic and less tense after the day is over.” —Benny W., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Benny Wong
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Benny Wong
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Benny Wong
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Benny Wong
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Benny Wong
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Benny Wong
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Benny Wong
Best Motorized
Sunny Health & Fitness Motorized Electric Under Desk Bike Pedals
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PHOTO: Sunny Health & Fitness
$220 $170 at Amazon $250 $200 at Walmart View on Sunnyhealthfitness.com
Pros
- Quick and easy assembly process
- Comes with a convenient, sleek remote
- Clear digital display with useful stats
Cons
- Not ideal for use during Zoom calls
- May move slightly on hardwood flooring
Key Specs
Style: Bike | Weight: 15.9 pounds | Resistance Levels: Eight | Features: Remote control, carry handles, three pre-set routines, 18 speed levels, automatic stop | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who It’s For
Optimal for individuals with mobility concerns or those preferring a motorized under desk bike pedal that’s quiet, simple to assemble, and includes a remote.
Why We Love It
Unlike many resistance-based under desk bike pedals, Sunny Health & Fitness’ Motorized Electric Under Desk Bike is motorized, providing an exceptionally smooth and quiet cycling experience. The sleek remote control is a favorite feature, allowing for quick intensity adjustments. It’s easy to modify resistance or power off during meetings without bending down.
Assembly is quick, taking just 20 minutes. The clear digital display shows intensity, program, time, and distance. It supports daily movement goals and provides a light to moderate workout, notably improving concentration and focus.
Potential Flaws
- While quiet, body movement during cycling might be noticeable in formal Zoom meetings.
- It’s stable but may move slightly on hardwood floors.
Most Valuable Insight
“I like that it has different pre-set workout programs, so it keeps things interesting instead of just being a constant rotation.” —Kelly B., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown
Best With Resistance Bands
FlexCycle Exercise Bike
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PHOTO: Amazon
$160 at Amazon $160 at Walmart $140 at Lifeprofitness.com
Pros
- Carry handle for easy storage
- Comes with a non-slip mat, resistance bands, and two sets of pedals
- Eight resistance levels
Cons
- Pedal straps are difficult to attach during assembly
Key Specs
Style: Bike | Weight: 18 pounds | Resistance Levels: Eight | Features: Resistance bands, carry handle, non-slip mat, arm pedals, proprietary app, LCD display | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Who It’s For
Best for users seeking versatility for both upper and lower body workouts simultaneously, thanks to arm pedals, foot pedals, and resistance bands included in this under desk bike pedal with resistance bands.
Why We Love It
LifePro’s FlexCycle Exercise Bike excels as a multi-tasking under desk pedal exerciser. It includes resistance bands and pedal sets for both feet and hands, offering comprehensive upper and lower body exercise options. This versatility makes it ideal for seniors seeking a compact, portable full-body workout machine.
Assembly was straightforward, with labeled parts, clear instructions, and included tools. Testing was enjoyable during calls, reading, TV watching, due to its quiet operation. Eight resistance settings and a carry handle add to its convenience.
Potential Flaws
- Pedal straps were challenging to attach and adjust during setup.
Most Valuable Insight
“I was pleasantly surprised by how well this under desk bike pedal with bands worked. I tend to run cold, and after cycling for 20 minutes during a Zoom meeting, I had to take off the sweater I was wearing—it got my blood flowing.” —Anna K., Verywell Fit product tester
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anna Knief
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anna Knief
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PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anna Knief
What to Know Before You Shop for Under Desk Bike Pedals
Under desk bike pedals are a valuable addition to any fitness routine, especially for those desk-bound. To intensify workouts, users can increase pedaling speed, adjust resistance, use ankle weights, or incorporate dumbbell exercises. For upper body engagement, models with resistance bands are recommended.
Some users may experience slippage. Theresa Marko suggests positioning the machine against a wall, using an exercise mat, or choosing a model with robust build and rubber grips to prevent this issue.
Under Desk Bike Pedals We Also Tested
We tested 33 under desk bike pedal and elliptical models but narrowed our final recommendations to eight. Some models, while having decent features, didn’t meet our top-tier standards.
- Cubii’s JR2+: A self-powered elliptical with adjustable resistance, clear display, portability, and easy setup. However, its higher price didn’t justify reported lower back discomfort.
- YOSUDA’s Magnetic Under Desk Cycling Bike YBM-1: Offers adjustable resistance, clear metrics display, smooth and silent operation, but setup issues and perceived quality for its price were drawbacks.
What We’ve Updated
- Our review was updated with re-evaluated previous picks and hands-on testing of four new products from leading brands. Assessments included setup ease, performance, features, and value.
- Based on new testing, we revised our Best Overall pick and added superlatives like Best Motorized, Best With Chair, and Best All-In-One under desk bike pedal options.
- We consulted a new expert, a personal trainer, ensuring our advice remains accurate and current.
What to Look for When Shopping for Under Desk Bike Pedals
- Setup: Look for intuitive setup. Some under desk bike pedals come pre-assembled, others require assembly. Check for included tools and clear instructions.
- Style: Under desk bike pedals and ellipticals offer similar benefits but differ in motion. Ellipticals are smoother and quieter, bikes offer a fuller motion range. Choose based on comfort preference.
- Weight: Portability is key, especially for office use. Check the weight of under desk bike pedals for ease of movement. Stability during use is also important; features like straps or handles aid portability.
- Resistance: Adjustable resistance allows for workout intensity scaling and strength building. Look for multiple levels and easy adjustment via knobs or buttons on under desk bike pedals.
- Size: Ensure adequate under-desk space. Incorrect positioning can cause strain. Adjust desk height if necessary, but limit prolonged use in non-ergonomic positions.
How We Tested the Under Desk Bike Pedals
We rigorously tested 33 under desk bike pedals and ellipticals for four weeks in home and office settings, evaluating them on:
- Ease of Setup: Timing assembly, assessing instruction clarity, and noting included tools and battery inclusion. Prioritizing pre-assembled or near-assembled models.
- Performance: Evaluating comfort during 20-minute sessions, noise and wobble levels, pedal and resistance adjustability, and display usability.
- Features: Assessing special features like bidirectional pedaling and Bluetooth, and their impact on user experience.
- Value: Assessing price against performance and overall experience to determine fairness and recommendation potential of each under desk bike pedal.
Our Experts
We consulted health and fitness experts throughout our process for guidance on safe and proper use, benefits, and key features for under desk bike pedals:
- Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist
- Latoya Julce, CPT, certified personal trainer and instructor at 305 Fitness
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an under-desk bike or elliptical better for use as under desk bike pedals?
Neither is definitively “better.” Ellipticals are smoother and quieter, while under desk bike pedals offer a broader motion range. Choice depends on personal preference.
What’s the best way to use an under desk bike pedal?
Under desk bike pedals are designed for use under desks while working or relaxing. Comfort is crucial. Ensure the unit fits under your desk and allows knee movement without desk contact.
Are under desk bike pedals safe for your knees?
Yes, says Marko. Cycling is non-weight-bearing, safe for knees, and can benefit knee health by increasing synovial fluid, lubricating and nourishing cartilage.
How much does a quality under desk bike pedal cost?
Expect to pay $50 to $350 for quality under desk bike pedals. Price varies by style and features.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Verywell Fit writer Lindsey Lanquist, with health and fitness expertise, prioritized well-reviewed under desk bike pedals with adjustable resistance and diverse features to accommodate varied preferences.
Additional reporting by Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT
By Lindsey Lanquist and Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT
