We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Trying to Get Your Steps in This Year? The 4 Best Under Desk Treadmills Can Help
Boost your step count and cardio by walking while you WFH
Tested by Charles Thorp, NASM and Luke Chamberlain
Many of us are spending time at a home office for at least a few hours per week these days. Whether it's working your 9-5, surfing the web, or maybe a little gaming, it's become somewhat normal for hours to slip by without moving much more than your fingers on the keyboard. Unless you're making a concerted effort to get your daily steps in, there's a good chance you could use a little help.
But there is hope for breaking up your most sedentary days: a treadmill desk. While it can't substitute a rigorous workout (say one on a traditional treadmill), the best under desk treadmills (or walking pads) can help you burn calories and get some steps while sending emails, watching tv, or frankly, any otherwise sedentary activity. And no, you don't need to hit 10,000 steps a day to reap the benefits.
Best Under Desk Treadmills
A 2021 study found having a treadmill desk can increases energy expenditure and metabolic rate, as well as possibly preventing the heath risks of sedentary working environments. So yeah, that means an under desk treadmill just may help you stay in shape. And no, it's not a substitute for a cardio workout. But hey, getting a little more activity into your day is never a bad thing — and it doesn't hurt to wear walking shoes while doing it, too.
Sitting for extended periods has been linked to various health problems, including obesity, poor posture, musculoskeletal problems, cardiovascular disease, and even diabetes. And upping your daily step-count via a treadmill desk is an approachable way to reduce sedentary behaviour and its associated health risks.
Increasing your daily movements by even 10 minutes can still make a positive impact on your longterm health. So if you're looking to add an under desk treadmill or walking pad to your work-from-home setup, we've got you covered. For the past two years, Men's Health's fitness team researched and tested over a dozen under-desk treadmill desks from top home gym and cardio machine brands to find the best walking pads to buy in 2026.
How We Selected
Our editors and writers have researched different treadmills and walking pads by doing market research, scouring forums, and leaning on our in-house team’s knowledge and expertise. From there we sought out testing some models in our office and home offices, as well as gathering the experiences of fellow editors who use walking pads frequently. During our testing, we evaluated each under desk treadmill on its cost, noise level, size, assembly process, stability, and ease of use. From our findings, we whittled down to the following guide of the six best under desk treadmills.
Pros
- Folds in half for easy storage
- Lightweight design
- Super quiet
Cons
- No incline options
We've been using this walking pad for several months, and it's been a perfect addition to any home office setup. Simple yet effective, the Walking Pad Z1 is a foldable treadmill that weighs 50 pounds, can support up to 242 pounds, and allows for speeds up to four miles per hour, which, for some people, is a light jog.
The relatively narrow width (22 inches) means the Z1 fits under most desks, and the nearly four feet of deck space is long enough to accommodate pretty much any stride length (within the speed range). Our favorite feature is that this treadmill folds completely in half; store it under your couch or bed and simply carry it to where you want to use it.
Again, this is a walking pad, so you won’t get a sweat-inducing workout on it. Also, it can support only people weighing up to 242 pounds. If that’s not you, you’ll want to look for a sturdier option on our list. But to be honest, a brisk power walk is the most that I want to do while writing emails or other work.
Features at a Glance
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 142.5 x 56 x 10.6 cm |
|---|---|
| Speed Range | 1 - 4 mph |
| Deck Length | 121 cm |
| Product Weight | 23 kg |
| Weight Capacity | 110 kg |
| Incline | No |
JTX MoveLight
Pros
- Well built and sturdy
- Spacious walking belt
- Straightforward to use
Cons
- A little heavy and bulky
This simple walking pad is easy to set up. It arrives fully assembled: just slip it under a desk, plug it in, select a speed and you’re ready to go.
The belt runs smoothly and, crucially, quietly, even at its maximum speed – your colleagues won’t be able to hear it through your laptop microphone. It tops out at 6 kph, or just under 4 mph – fast enough for a brisk walk, though probably not for running.
At 122 cm long, the deck is at the upper end of the size range for a walking pad and provides enough space to accommodate the stride of our 6ft 1in tester.
Overall, it feels premium, is straightforward to use and delivers a great walking experience. At 29.5kg, it’s a little bulky and heavy, but we don’t necessarily see that as a dealbreaker, preferring a solid, well-built treadmill over one that feels cheap and flimsy any day.
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 163 x 70 x 14.5 cm |
|---|---|
| Speed Range | 3.7 mph |
| Deck Length | 122 cm |
| Product Weight | 29.5 kg |
| Weight Capacity | 100 kg |
| Incline | No |
UREVO 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Pros
- Under £200
- Reliable walking pad
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- Can run hot
The Urevo Walking Pad has proven to be a reliable and financially reasonable way to help me keep my steps up. I like that it’s lasted over two years, is relatively easy to move, and functions as both a walking pad and an under-desk treadmill.
This is a budget pick; the Urevo’s best quality is that it’s a functional walking pad that you can buy for around $200. Mine was bought back in 2022 and used nearly every day for eight months straight. One time, I challenged myself to walk 30,000 steps in a day. I queued up two movies on Netflix and made it through all of The Firm before my wife told me she smelled something burning and I realized the bottoms of my feet were red-hot from two hours and 40 minutes of straight walking.
I’d suggest wearing shoes on this treadmill and not walking on the Urevo for longer than an hour at a time. I hardly use mine as an under-the-desk treadmill (I don’t like typing and walking), but I could as it does fit under my desk. If you’re not buying a standing desk and MacGyver-ing your set-up, measure your desk and Urevo at their widest points to ensure they’re compatible.
All in all, there’s nothing about Urevo that will blow you away. But it is a resilient and affordable walking pad that’ll help you stay active during the winter months and Netflix binges. Is it the cheapest piece of exercise equipment I own? Probably… but I don’t regret the purchase one bit.
Features at a Glance
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 130 x 58 x 12 cm |
|---|---|
| Speed Range | 0.6 - 6.2 mph |
| Deck Length | 102 cm |
| Product Weight | 21.9 kg |
| Weight Capacity | 120 kg |
| Incline | No |
WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill
WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill
Pros
- Inconspicuous low-profile aesthetic
- Compact design
- Low-noise structure
Cons
- Low maximum weight capacity
After testing this for a few months, we like to think of this one more as a true walking pad than a treadmill. Ultimately, it has the same function as most under-desk treadmills, but the low-profile aesthetic of the C2 Smart Folding Treadmill can be really attractive.
Especially if you are in an apartment or small office space, the size and look of this design offer significant functional benefits. When you're not using it, simply fold it up and tuck it away. It's not only foldable, but super lightweight, so you can move it from room to room or under the sofa with ease.
It has a maximum speed of 4 mph, so it's great for even fast walkers. A remote control lets you easily adjust the treadmill's speed, switch between modes, and turn it on and off. This makes it easy to customize your workout without stopping or bending down. Buyers have noted the remote battery is not included, so be aware.
The treadmill is also Bluetooth-enabled, so you can pair it with a fitness app while you exercise. But with a weight capacity of just 220 pounds and a compact walking surface, it's not the most suitable choice for bigger or taller guys.
Features at a Glance
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 145 x 52 x 13 cm |
|---|---|
| Speed Range | 0.5–3.7 mph |
| Deck Length | 120 cm |
| Product Weight | 25kg |
| Weight Capacity | 100kg |
| Incline | No |
What to Consider
Size
This probably goes without saying, but you’ll want to double-check that the walking pad you’re shopping will physically fit your home office. Pay close attention to the overall dimensions, so you can be sure it will fit under your desk. But, it also helps to have a few feet in every direction around the treadmill to allow enough freedom of movement.
Stability
Like all home gym equipment, stability equals safety. You want a treadmill that’s sturdy enough to properly support you. Look for metal frames which often mean a heavier, more stable construction. If spending a little more money will 'upgrade' your purchase from a cheaper, less stable frame, to a stronger one, opt for the more expensive option. That increased peace of mind is always money well spent.
Adjustability
If the treadmill desk setup you’re considering includes an attached or complementary desk, be sure it adjusts to a height that’s comfortable for you. Most feature varying table heights, so be sure that it can elevate to a position that’s ideal for your workflow. Also, treadmills often allow for an adjustable range of speeds, typically in 0.1 mile-per-hour increments. This guarantees the versatility to adapt to your growing fitness needs.
Noise Level
Belt-driven treadmill desks and under desk treadmill models make noise just like standard treadmills. Not every manufacturer lists the average noise level of its treadmill. But, if a quieter workspace is important to you, be sure to ask or research reviews from other treadmill desk buyers to see what they have to say.
Assembly
Many walking pads require at least light assembly. If you’re not DIY-inclined or just prefer your at-home gym equipment to arrive preassembled, check the manufacturer’s website to see just how much assembly is required. In some cases, your retailer may offer assembly, either free or for an additional fee.
Why Is Walking While Working a Good Idea?
According to the Mayo Clinic, the average American was taking 3,000 to 4,000 steps each day prior to 2020 (which is still less than ideal). These days, many Americans are becoming even more sedentary. And we know how hard it is to pull yourself away from work between meetings and deadlines to get out for a quick walk, but treadmill desks provide a solution for that dilemma.
Compared to a traditional sitting desk, treadmill desks simply allow you to increase your physical activity levels while working. This can help improve your cardiovascular health, increase calorie burn, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with a sedentary lifestyle. And who doesn't love a tool that helps you multitask these days?
While research isn't conclusive, some studies have shown that using a treadmill desk can even improve productivity and cognitive function. Walking increases blood flow and oxygenation to the brain, which can enhance mental clarity and focus.
But it is important to note that a treadmill desk may not be suitable for everyone. If you have an existing health condition, it's important to consult a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your activity levels.
More of Our Favourite Home Fitness Equipment
Best Cheap Home Gym Kit | Best Adjustable Dumbbells | Best Adjustable Kettlebells | Best Treadmills | Best Rowing Machines | Best Exercise Bikes | Best Resistance Bands | Best Ab Rollers | Best Olympic Rings | Best Pull-Up Bars | Best Lifting Straps | Best Knee Sleeves | Best Exercise Mats | How to Build a Home Gym
Andrew Gutman, NASM-CPT is a journalist with a decade of experience covering fitness and nutrition. His work has been published in Men's Health, Men's Journal, Muscle & Fitness, and Gear Patrol. Outside of writing, Andrew trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, helps coach his gym's kickboxing team, and enjoys reading and cooking.
Charles Thorp is the Fitness and Reviews Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world. Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.
Luke Chamberlain is the ecommerce editor for Men’s Health UK where he compiles expert-led buying guides and in-depth product reviews across gym wear, fitness tech, supplements, and grooming. Responsible for testing everything from the latest gym headphones to the best beard trimmers, Luke also enlists the help of leading health and wellness experts to help readers make informed choices when shopping online. He also covers major sales events for Men’s Health, including Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day, scouting and verifying hundreds of discounts in order to recommend only the most genuine deals on offer. A magazine journalism graduate from the University of Sheffield in 2018, Luke has also worked as assistant editor for Outdoor Swimmer magazine and as an ecommerce writer for The Recommended. When he’s not testing the latest health and fitness products, he’s busy plotting routes for his next trail run or gravel ride out of London. Follow Luke on Instagram at @lukeochamb
Hit Your Back Muscles with the Best Pull-up Bars
The Best Home Gym Kit Under £20
Editor-Approved Creatine Supplements for Strength
Add Resistance to Any Workout with a Weighted Vest
