Written by Andrew Lenau | ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
Fact checked by Tyler DiGiovanni BSBM
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Sitting for extended periods can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, negatively impacting our overall health and well-being. One way to combat this is by incorporating exercise into our daily routine, even while working at our desks.
Under-desk ellipticals are a convenient and effective way to exercise while sitting at your desk, providing a low-impact workout for your legs and promoting increased activity levels. In this article, I will discuss seven of the best under-desk ellipticals available in the market based on their features, performance, and customer reviews.
SFS Pick
Cubii JR2+
SFS Premium Pick
Cubii Total Body
SFS Motorized Pick
Sunny SitFit
7 Best Under-Desk Ellipticals
- Overall Best Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii JR2+
- Best Premium Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii Total Body
- Best Motorized Under-Desk Elliptical: Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical
- Best Budget Under-Desk Elliptical: Stamina InMotion Elliptical
- Best Resistance On Under-Desk Elliptical: LifePro Flexstride
- Best Portable Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go
- Best Under-Desk Elliptical For Seniors: ROTAI Under-Desk Elliptical For Seniors
1. Overall Best Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii JR2+
The Cubii JR2+ is my top pick for the overall best under-desk elliptical. This compact elliptical is designed to fit easily under most desks and provides a smooth and quiet workout experience. In addition, it features eight resistance levels, allowing you to personalize the intensity of your workout, and comes with a built-in display that tracks your strides, distance, time, and calories burned.
The Cubii JR2+ also has Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to sync your workout data with popular fitness apps such as Apple Health, Fitbit, and Google Fit, making it simple to track your progress and set fitness goals across different platforms. One of the standout features of the Cubii JR2+ is its ergonomic design, with a low pedal height and a wide range of motion, making it suitable for users of different heights and providing a comfortable and natural stride.
It weighs only 19 pounds, making it easy to move and store. The Cubii JR2+ also has a durable build quality and comes with a one-year warranty, providing peace of mind to users.
Pros
- Compact design that fits easily under most desks
- Eight resistance levels for customizable workouts
- Built-in display for tracking workout data
- Bluetooth connectivity for syncing with the Cubii app
Cons
- Higher price compared to some other under-desk ellipticals
Cubii JR2+ includes all the standard features of lightweight construction, portability, and smooth functionality with the added benefit of Bluetooth, allowing you to sync your...
2. Best Premium Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii Total Body
For those looking for a premium under-desk elliptical with additional features, the Cubii Total Body is an excellent choice. In addition to providing a lower body workout like traditional under-desk ellipticals, the Cubii Total Body also includes a built-in pulley system that allows you to work out your upper body simultaneously.
This provides a full-body workout while sitting at your desk, making it an excellent option for those who want to engage multiple muscle groups during their exercise routine. The Cubii Total Body features 12 resistance levels for both the lower body and the pulley system, giving you even more options to customize your workout to your desired intensity.
It also has a built-in digital monitor for tracking your workout data and Bluetooth connectivity for syncing with the Cubii app and other popular fitness apps such as Apple Health, Fitbit, and HealthKit, making tracking your progress easy across multiple platforms. The Cubii Total Body is designed with upgraded handles and wheels for added durability and ease of use.
The ergonomic pulleys provide a smooth rowing motion that won't add additional strain to your joints. Weighing 22.7 pounds, it is sturdy and stable during workouts.
The Cubii Total Body has a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. Another unique feature of the Cubii Total Body is its access to Studio+ classes via the Cubii app.
This allows you to join thousands of other users in guided workouts, classes, and challenges, providing additional motivation and variety to your exercise routine.
Pros
- It can provide a full-body workout
- 12 resistance levels
- Includes Studio+ classes via the app
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- The most expensive option on this list
- The pulley system may not be enough resistance for some people
The Bluetooth-enabled Cubii Total Body+ combines the low-impact cardio of an elliptical with the ergonomic pulley system of a rowing machine. The compact, portable design enables a...
3. Best Motorized Under-Desk Elliptical: Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical
The Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical is a motorized under-desk elliptical that offers a unique workout experience. Unlike traditional under-desk ellipticals requiring manual pedaling, this elliptical features a motorized drive system that provides a smooth and consistent workout without needing continuous pedaling.
This can be an excellent option for those with limited mobility, rehabbing, or prefer a more hands-free workout experience. The Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical's motorized drive system provides a smooth and quiet operation.
It offers 18 different levels of speed/RPM and three programs, giving you a wide range of options to find the perfect intensity for your workouts. The elliptical also comes with a convenient remote that allows you to change up your workouts at the touch of a button, making it easy to adjust settings without interrupting your exercise routine.
The Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical is designed with durable polyurethane-constructed roller wheels that provide smooth gliding motion as you stride, ensuring a comfortable workout experience. It also includes built-in safety measures, such as an automatic stop feature if the elliptical is tilted, overheats, or detects any obstruction or operational issues, minimizing potential harm or danger during workouts.
Pros
- Includes automated safety measures
- It is motorized, perfect for rehab and recovery
- Sturdy design
- The carry handle makes it easy to move around
- Arrives fully assembled
Cons
- The motor noises can be distracting
Go fast, slow, backwards, and everything in between with the Sunny Health & Fitness Motorized Under Desk Elliptical. Convenient and space-saving, the Sunny Health...
4. Best Budget Under-Desk Elliptical: Stamina InMotion Elliptical
If you're on a budget but still want to incorporate exercise into your work routine, the Stamina InMotion Elliptical is a great option. This affordable under-desk elliptical offers a simple yet effective workout experience.
It features adjustable tension, allowing you to customize the intensity of your workout, and it also has a small built-in monitor that displays your time, strides, and calories burned. The Stamina InMotion Elliptical is compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit under most desks and move around as needed.
It operates quietly, allowing you to use it without disturbing your colleagues or affecting your concentration. The elliptical also has a durable build quality.
This compact and lightweight mini strider can be used while sitting or standing, giving you versatility in your exercise routine as well as being able to use it with a standing desk. You can pedal in both directions (forward or reverse ) to target different muscles, providing a low-attention leg exercise that can help improve circulation and increase activity levels during your workday.
One unique feature of the Stamina InMotion Elliptical is its connectivity with the müüv app, offering a connected fitness experience. With the müüv app, you can access innovative guided coaching, exercise demo videos, personalized workouts, assembly videos, and more, providing additional support and motivation for your workouts.
Pros
- Great value
- Up to 250-pound weight capacity
- The tension knob makes it easy to adjust the difficulty
- It can be used standing or seated
Cons
- The built-in tracker could be better
The Stamina InMotion Compact Strider elliptical pedal exerciser provides an effective, efficient, and quiet cardio and muscle-toning workout. It helps you burn calories, tone lower-body...
5. Best Resistance On Under-Desk Elliptical: LifePro Flexstride
The LifePro Flexstride is a top-notch under-desk elliptical that delivers a unique and customizable workout experience. With its magnetic resistance system offering eight resistance levels, you can easily change the intensity of your workout to your preference, making it suitable for users of all fitness levels.
The magnetic resistance also ensures a smooth and quiet operation, allowing you to exercise without bothering others or affecting your concentration. One of the standout features of the LifePro Flexstride is its sturdy build quality and lifetime warranty, providing durability and peace of mind to users.
You can trust that this elliptical is built to last, making it a wise investment for your fitness routine. The included stabilizers are a game-changer, keeping the leg exerciser in place while pedaling and preventing unwanted bumping, shaking, or movement.
Additionally, the optional strap allows you to tether the stationary pedal exerciser to your chair for added stability during your workouts, ensuring a safe and secure experience. Another convenient feature of the LifePro Flexstride is its portable handle, making it easy to carry and store.
You can effortlessly move it around your home or office, allowing you to exercise wherever and whenever you want.
Pros
- Great built-in lifetime warranty
- Stable and sturdy while working out
- Easy to store away
- It has wide pedals to accommodate bigger feet
Cons
- Even the lowest tension may be too much for some people
Compact, mini elliptical machine for home use and office use helps you incorporate aerobic exercise wherever you are, with a built-in handle for easy transport. Workout equipment for...
6. Best Portable Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go
The Cubii Go is a portable and versatile seated under-desk elliptical that brings convenience, functionality, and a superior workout experience to your home or office. Its unique features and sleek design make it a top choice for those looking to stay active while working or at home.
One of the standout features of the Cubii Go is its large illuminated screen, which makes it easy to monitor your workout stats from any environment. The screen displays essential data such as time, distance, calories burned, and RPM, allowing you to track your progress and stay driven throughout your workout.
The illuminated screen is particularly convenient for use in low-light or dimly-lit spaces, ensuring easy visibility and readability. The Cubii Go is also the most portable seated under-desk elliptical in the Cubii lineup, thanks to its built-in wheels and retractable handle.
This makes it incredibly easy to move and store, allowing you to take it anywhere. The lighter build and retractable handle add to its portability, making it a perfect choice for those who need to move their elliptical frequently or store it in tight spaces.
Another notable feature of the Cubii Go is its ZeroGravitii Flywheel, the largest flywheel among all Cubii models. This provides the smoothest stride, ensuring a comfortable, low-impact, gentle workout on your joints, knees, and back.
The ZeroGravitii Flywheel enables increased strength and mobility without putting undue stress on your body, making it suitable for users of all fitness levels. The Cubii Go also offers eight levels of adjustable resistance, allowing you to customize the intensity of your workout to your preference.
This provides a challenging and practical workout experience, helping you to improve your strength, stamina, and mobility over time. One of the unique aspects of the Cubii Go is its compatibility with the Cubii app, which allows you to access over 300 expert-guided Studio+ workout classes.
These classes provide diverse workouts, from cardio to strength training, and allow you to follow along with professional instructors for a comprehensive workout experience. You can also manually enter your workout data into the app to track your progress in strides, mileage, active time, and calories burned, helping you to stay motivated and reach your fitness goals.
Pros
- It is incredibly portable
- Unique ZeroGravitii Flywheel setup
- Easy to read, illuminated display
- It has eight levels of resistance
- It has free returns
Cons
- Not cheap
The built-in wheels and retractable handle make Cubii Go the most portable seated under-desk elliptical yet! This model features an extra-large...
7. Best Under-Desk Elliptical For Seniors: ROTAI Under-Desk Elliptical For Seniors
The ROTAI Auto Elliptical is a specialized exercise machine designed for seniors who want to stay active and maintain mobility while seated. Its unique features and user-friendly design make it a top choice for seniors looking to incorporate exercise into their daily routine and promote circulation.
One of the standout features of the ROTAI Auto Elliptical is its automatic operation, making it incredibly easy to use. Pedal and let the machine do the work for you, making it ideal for people working around a desk or seniors with conditions such as Arthritis or Parkinsonism.
The automatic operation also ensures a quiet workout, allowing you to continue working, reading, or watching TV while getting a beneficial workout. The ROTAI Auto Elliptical comes with a remote control that will enable you to set the speed and direction of the machine to a comfortable level.
This means you can tailor your workout to suit your fitness level and preferences without adjusting the machine manually. The LCD monitor displays essential workout data such as calories burned, distance, and time, making it easy to track your progress and stay motivated.
One of the unique features of the ROTAI Auto Elliptical is the Shiatsu pedal design. Both sides of the pedal are set with Shiatsu knobs that stimulate the muscles in your feet, providing an additional benefit of foot massage while you exercise. This can help with circulation and provide a relaxing sensation during your workout, making it a unique and appealing feature for seniors.
The ROTAI Auto Elliptical is also designed with stability and safety in mind. It features four defined sponges on the bottom of the machine that enhance stability and prevents skidding, ensuring that the device stays in place even during vigorous workouts. This provides added peace of mind for seniors, knowing that the machine will not move or run away while in use.
The ROTAI Auto Elliptical also has a two-year warranty, providing added assurance and protection for your investment.
Pros
- Easy to use
- It comes with a remote control
- Includes Shiatsu pedals
- Operates quietly
- An excellent option for seniors or people rehabbing
Cons
- It could be built to be easier to move
ROTAI specializes in products that promote a healthy lifestyle for people, including this seated elliptical, which can provide a low-impact way for seniors to exercise and improve circulation...
What is an Under-Desk Elliptical machine?
An under-desk elliptical machine is a compact and portable exercise device designed to fit under a desk or table, allowing you to pedal with your feet while sitting. It typically resembles a small, low-profile elliptical trainer with pedals that you can pedal forward or backward in a smooth, elliptical motion.
Under-desk ellipticals are popular among individuals looking for a convenient and efficient way to stay active and incorporate exercise into their daily routine, particularly for those with sedentary jobs or limited time for traditional training. They can provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout, engage different muscle groups, and help increase overall activity levels, making them a versatile and practical option for those seeking to improve their fitness and well-being.
Image courtesy of Cubii
Benefits of an under-desk elliptical:
Under-desk ellipticals offer numerous benefits, making them popular for those looking to incorporate physical activity into their sedentary work routine or daily activities. Here are some key benefits of using an under-desk elliptical:
1. Budget Friendly
Under-desk ellipticals are generally more affordable than traditional elliptical machines or other exercise equipment. They come in a wide range of price points, making them accessible to individuals with different budgets.
This affordability makes under-desk ellipticals a cost-effective option for those who may not have the financial means to invest in larger, more expensive exercise equipment.
2. Can use while working
One of the unique advantages of under-desk ellipticals is their ability to be used while you are working at your desk. This allows you to integrate physical activity seamlessly into your work routine without setting aside dedicated time for exercise.
In fact, it's an awesome chair exercise, as you cou can pedal away while checking emails, participating in virtual meetings, or working on tasks, making it a convenient option for busy individuals who may struggle to exercise.
3. Low-impact
Under-desk ellipticals provide a low-impact form of exercise, which means they are easy on your joints and muscles. Unlike high-impact activities such as running or jumping, which can stress your knees, ankles, and hips, under-desk ellipticals offer a smooth, fluid motion that minimizes the impact on your joints.
This makes them suitable for people of various fitness levels, including those with joint or mobility issues or recovering from injuries.
4. Increases activity level
An under-desk elliptical can help increase your daily activity level, especially if you have a sedentary job or lifestyle. Sitting for long periods can lead to many health issues, including poor circulation, muscle stiffness, and weight gain.
Under-desk ellipticals provide an opportunity to engage in physical activity and burn calories throughout the day, even while sitting. This can help combat the adverse effects of prolonged sitting and contribute to improved overall health and fitness.
5. Can help with rehabilitation
Under-desk ellipticals can also be used in rehabilitation or physical therapy programs. They can provide a safe and controlled form of exercise for individuals recovering from specific injuries or surgeries, such as knee or hip surgeries.
Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, under-desk ellipticals can aid in recovery by improving circulation, increasing range of motion, and strengthening muscles in a gentle and controlled manner.
Image courtesy of Sunny Health & Fitness
What to look for when buying an under-desk elliptical:
When purchasing an under-desk elliptical, several factors must be considered to ensure you make the best choice for your needs. Here are some key aspects to look for when buying an under-desk elliptical:
1. Build Quality
The build quality of the under-desk elliptical is crucial for its durability and longevity. Look for models made from sturdy materials, have a solid frame, and can withstand regular use.
A well-built under-desk elliptical will ensure a stable and safe workout experience.
2. Size
The size of the under-desk elliptical is a crucial consideration, as it needs to fit comfortably under your desk or table without hindering your leg movement. Measure the area under your desk to ensure your chosen elliptical fits appropriately.
Additionally, consider the height of the elliptical to ensure that it allows for proper ergonomics during your workout.
3. Features
Different under-desk elliptical models come with various features, so consider what features are important to you. For example, some models may have Bluetooth connectivity for tracking your workout data, while others may come with armband accessories for upper body workouts.
Make sure to prioritize the features that align with your fitness goals and preferences.
4. Portability
Portability is another crucial factor, especially if you move the under-desk elliptical between locations or store it away when not in use. Look for models that are lightweight, easy to transport, and have wheels for convenient mobility.
5. Reviews
Reading customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the performance and durability of the under-desk elliptical. Look for feedback from other users to get a better overall picture of the pros and cons of the product and whether it meets your expectations.
6. Price
Under-desk ellipticals come in a wide range of prices, so consider your budget when deciding. It's essential to strike a balance between quality and affordability. Remember that investing in a higher-priced model may offer better durability, stability, warranty, and features, but staying within your budget is also essential.
Under-desk Elliptical FAQs
Is an under-desk elliptical good exercise?
Yes, an under-desk elliptical can provide a good workout, especially for individuals looking to incorporate physical activity into their sedentary work routine. Using an under-desk elliptical allows you to engage in low-impact cardiovascular exercise, which can help improve cardiovascular health, increase calorie burn, and promote better circulation.
Can you stand while using an under-desk elliptical?
Most under-desk ellipticals are designed for seated use, as they are specifically designed to fit under a desk or table. However, some models may allow for standing depending on their design and stability.
It's important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines to determine if standing use is recommended for a particular under-desk elliptical.
What muscle groups does an under-desk elliptical work?
An under-desk elliptical can provide a workout that engages multiple muscle groups. The primary muscle groups targeted during an under-desk elliptical workout include the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves.
Additionally, the movement of the pedals can also engage the core muscles and provide some upper-body workouts depending on the model and design.
Is seated elliptical good for the knees?
A seated elliptical can be a good option for individuals with knee issues or limited mobility, as it provides a gentle, low-impact form of exercise on the joints. Unlike high-impact activities like running or jumping, a seated elliptical provides a smooth, gliding motion that puts less stress on the knees, making it suitable for individuals with knee concerns.
It's always recommended to consult your healthcare provider or a fitness professional before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or concerns. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual needs and circumstances.
Image courtesy of Cubii
Summary
The negative impact of extended sitting on our health and well-being can be countered by incorporating exercise into our daily routine, even while working at our desks. Under-desk ellipticals offer a convenient and effective way to exercise while seated, providing a low-impact workout for the legs and promoting higher activity levels.
Cubii JR2+ includes all the standard features of lightweight construction, portability, and smooth functionality with the added benefit of Bluetooth, allowing you to sync your...
Are you on the hunt for the best low-impact cardio equipment? Check out articles on the best recumbent bikes and best magnetic rowing machines.
Cover photo courtesy of LifePro
Andrew Lenau
Author