6 Best Under Desk Bike Pedals to Exercise at Work

Any pick from our list of the top performing under desk exercise bikes will help you get fit without having to take time out of your busy schedule. Real fitness experts tested dozens of models and chose these 6 as the best of the best. Getting fit has never been easier!

You’re a master of multitasking, a teamwork warrior, and a deadline destroyer—that corner office practically has your name on it. But unfortunately, climbing the corporate ladder doesn’t burn calories.

Exercise Pedals for the Office

1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418

2. DeskCycle 2

3. MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser

4. Vaunn Medical Pedal Exerciser

5. FLEXISPOT Home Office Standing Desk Exercise Bike

6. Marcy NS-9200 Magnetic Cardio Mini Cycle

Finding the time to go to the gym just isn’t realistic in today’s world of work. Between your job, traffic, family, cooking, shopping, and all of the unexpected things life throws your way, it’s a miracle you find time to sleep (oh sweet sleep…what a beautiful, distant memory….).

But, amazing new under desk exercise bikes are changing EVERYTHING. Now, it’s possible to get fit, burn calories, and boost your energy levels without ever getting up from your desk.

This isn’t one of those electric torture ab machines or a shake-weight style embarrassment—under desk exercise bikes are real workout machines that produce real results.

In this review and buying guide, we’ll tell what an under desk exercise bike is, how to pick the right one, and which products are the best on the market (according to independent fitness experts). Let’s ride!

For a quick look at the best under desk exercise bikes on the market, take a look at the highlights in this comparison table. Below, you’ll find a deeper dive into each product as well as a complete buying guide that you don’t want to miss.

The Top 6 Under Desk Mini Exercise Bikes

There are a lot of under desk exercise bikes out there, but many of them are just plain garbage. The right bike should keep you comfortable and focused on work while simultaneously giving you a calorie-burning workout. We called in real fitness experts to test out a bunch of different bikes, and in the end, the following were the ones that came out on top. For comfort, fitness quality, and value, these are the best under desk exercise bikes money can buy.

1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418

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The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-BO418 under desk bike is one of the most durable bikes, yet it still maintains one of the lowest weights of any bike of its kind. Portability becomes even easier thanks to its convenient handle, something that most bikes lack.

Talking about portability first may seem strange, but it is a priority. If you need to take your bike to and from work every day, you don’t want it to weigh you down, especially if you have to walk far or take the stairs.

PROS

Lightweight
Handle for easy transport
High-tech display

CONS

May slip on hard floors at high resistances

When it comes to fitness, the Sunny Health excels. It has eight different resistance options and a number of features that help track your fitness (speed, distance, calories, ODM and more). Everything is displayed clearly on an LCD monitor, and you can even save your settings and results to repeat the next day. This makes setting goals and pushing your limits much easier.

This under desk bike is easy to slide beneath a desk or table and peddle while sitting. Thanks to magnetic resistance, pedaling is smooth and silent. Unfortunately, if you’re tall, you may hit your knees on your desk. This was a problem for some of our experts, but not all. Also, at high resistances, the bike may slide a bit if it’s not on a carpeted surface. If your desk has a solid back, this won’t be a problem.

2. DeskCycle 2

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The DeskCycle may be the best under desk exercise bike for all desk types and users, regardless of height. This is because the DeskCycle 2 has the lowest pedal height of any mini exercise bike like it.

To put it simply, if the pedals are placed too high, then your knees may hit the top of your desk. This pretty much renders any under desk exercise bike useless. The min exercise bike keeps your feet low to the ground, making it ideal for almost any peddler and any desk type.

PROS

Low pedal height
Mobile app
Security slot for lock
Large Display

CONS

Not easily portable

Like the Sunny Health and Fitness, the DeskCycle 2 also features eight magnetic resistance levels and fitness tracking features. In addition, mini cycle allows you to track everything with your smartphone on a native app. Use this high-tech feature to track your progress on the bike plus your steps, calories and more (it integrates with your Fitbit!). No time to check an app at work (besides Words with Friends, of course)? The on-unit display is removable, so you can place it on your desk as you cycle. You won’t need to lean over and look suspiciously under your desk to see if your workout time is nearly up.

DeskCycle 2 is sturdy and won’t move when peddling, but this sturdiness comes from a higher weight and wide legs, making the bike a pain to carry around. But, it comes with a Kensington lock slot so you can secure it to your desk overnight with confidence.

3. MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser

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For versatility and durability, the MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser is a top pick. This piece of under desk workout equipment is not just for your legs, but also for your arms, so you can get an upper and lower-body workout with just one machine.

There are plenty of features that make this bike stand out. Our fitness experts’ favorite was the resistance dial. Instead of having to select between a few different resistance options, the MagneTrianer-ER allows you to finely tune its magnetic resistance to the ideal level for you. Simply turn the dial to increase or decrease resistance.

PROS

Wide resistance range
Pedal forwards and backward
Works for arms and legs

CONS

High pedal height
Slips on hard floors

For even greater versatility, you can pedal both forwards and backward at the same resistance to exercise different muscle groups. This is truly a comprehensive workout machine in a tiny package!

This mini exercise bike is small but tough. It’s made with high-quality 4V belts, pulleys, and German flywheel bearings that ensure this product will last. MagneTrainer stands by this with its 1-year warranty.

Because you can use both your arms and legs with this bike, the pedals are set a bit higher, meaning some won’t be able to use it under their desks. Also, it does tend to slip even though it’s on the heavy side. But, if you want to exercise more muscle groups at more resistance options, this really is the best under desk exercise bike.

4. Vaunn Medical Pedal Exerciser

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The Vaunn Medical Pedal Exerciser Chrome Frame is not like the other under desk exercise pedals on this list. You won’t find any magnetic resistance, a display, or extra fitness features here. This bare-bones exercise bicycle consists only of two pedals and a resistance knob—but that may be all you need.

Better for physical therapy than for breaking a sweat, the Vaunn stationary bike pedals work great without all the bells and whistles. Over five times lighter than the other bikes on this list, this exercise machine is very easy to carry everywhere and it fits under any desk.

PROS

Very light and portable
Affordable
Great for physical therapy

CONS

Poor resistance
Very basic

It may not have the features of other bikes, but the Vaunn is still very durable and built to last. Made from triple-layered chrome steel and guaranteed never to rust, you won’t have to worry about getting a replacement anytime soon.

The biggest downside of this bike is that it just doesn’t have the same resistance quality as more advanced models. For a proper workout, you can’t beat magnetic resistance, and this bike doesn’t have it. This is a great bike for the elderly or those in need of physical therapy, but peddlers looking to burn some serious calories may want to choose a different option.

5. FLEXISPOT Home Office Standing Desk Exercise Bike

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If you’ve tried to boost your energy by switching to a standing desk but need something more, the FLEXISPOT Home Office Standing Desk Exercise Bike Height Adjustable Cycle is the answer, hands down. The ultimate office bike, this full bike-desk combo allows you to get work done while maintaining great posture and riding in a real cycling position.

The FLEXISPOT bike can be used as a desk, or it can be adjusted to fit under a standing desk. Once you’re sat in its wide and comfortable seat, you’ll be in the perfect position to bike and work for hours. Need to go to a meeting? The desk bike is on wheels, so it’s easy to transport from room to room or around the office. It’s also very sturdy and completely adjustable to your height.

PROS

Handle for carrying
Good grip
2-year warranty

CONS

Tiny display screen
A bit heavy

Eight levels of magnetic resistance and silent pedaling mean you can work hard without bothering anyone. Sure, you might get some looks due to its size, but once the pounds start melting off, those glares will grow green with envy!

The FLEXISPOT is ideal for standing desks and home offices, as it is not compatible with a standard desk. It’s also much more expensive than simple under desk workout equipment. But, for the quality and the results it delivers, it’s definitely worth the price.

6. Marcy NS-9200 Magnetic Cardio Mini Cycle

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The Marcy NS-9200 Portable Magnetic Cardio Mini Cycle may be the most balanced under desk exercise machine on this list. It has all the great features of our favorite exercise bikes and comes with a fantastic 2-year warranty to boot.

This sleek and compact bike is smaller and fits more easily under desks than other leading models, and it can be used with your legs and arms comfortably thanks to its tapered design. It has eight magnetic resistance settings, a convenient carrying handle, and high-quality rubber straps that secure your feet completely. One of our experts’ favorite features was the triangular rubberized grips that keep this machine from slipping on any surface—a problem that plagues other bikes.

PROS

Handle for carrying
Good grip
2-year warranty

CONS

Tiny display screen
A bit heavy

The Marcy is as durable as a tank. Thick rubber, hard plastic, and solid steel make this a beast of a workout bike. It’s a bit heavier than other models as a result, but surprisingly, it’s more compact too. If you want a reliable model that can take some wear and tear, the Marcy is for you.

The only thing that could be improved is its display screen. It’s just too small to read properly, even if it does display key fitness metrics as well as track and save your progress. Though you may have to lean down to see it.

Under Desk Exercise Bike - Buying Guide

If you’re serious about getting fit and boosting your productivity with an under desk exercise bike, you need to pick a product that’s going to maximize your gains. Choosing the right bike depends on a number of factors that include your body type, your work environment, and your fitness goals. We’re going to take a look at everything you need to consider and give you some helpful buying tips in this comprehensive guide.

What is an Under Desk Exercise Bike?

First things first. What is an under desk exercise bike, exactly?

The name is a bit misleading because it’s not actually a bike at all. An under desk exercise bike is a set of stationary bike pedals that you place under your desk. When you sit, you put your feet on the pedals and move them as if you were riding a bike. Most units allow you to adjust the resistance so you can burn calories and build muscle over time. That’s it! Whoever thought something so simple could make such a big difference in life?

The Benefits of Using an Under Desk Exercise Bike

By using an under desk workout bike, you can:

Save money: Most bikes cost as much as 1-2 months of a gym membership. The only difference is you’ll actually use your bike!
Save time: Get your work and your workout done at the SAME TIME. When you clock out, you’ll be able to spend the rest of your day doing what you really want to do (sleep, please).
Increase energy: Studies show that doing regular physical activity gives you more energy. Imagine being more productive at work and energetic at home WITHOUT ten cups of coffee a day!
Boost mood: Your mood will improve along with your energy levels. Regular exercise boosts endorphins, improves brain function, and regulates sleep patterns, making you feel all-around cheerier.
Lose weight: Who doesn’t want to shed a few pounds? Many under desk bike users claim to have lost as many as 5 pounds per month just by using their bike throughout the day.
Build muscle: Wake up those muscles and get your blood pumping. A stronger lower body will keep you grounded and better balanced, especially as the years pass. And don’t forget the most important muscle that exercise benefits—the heart.

Key Features of Under Desk Mini Bikes

Pedal height: If you want to put your under desk exercise bike under your desk, pedal height is the most important factor you need to consider. You need to make sure that the height of the pedals plus the length of your legs (knee to heel) doesn’t equal more than the height of your desk surface. If it does, your knees will bump your desk when you pedal, rendering the bike useless at work. If you’re especially tall or have a desk that sits low, we recommend choosing a bike with a pedal height of 12 in. or lower.
Weight: Lightweight and heavy bikes both have their benefits. Heavy bikes will be less likely to move when you pedal at higher resistances, while light bikes will be easier to carry. If you’re not planning on carrying your bike from place to place very often, we recommend choosing a heavier bike (over 20 lbs.).
Portability: If you aren’t able to leave your bike at work (or if you want to use it while watching TV at home too), choose a model that makes transport easy. Some models feature a convenient carrying handle, compact design, or a lightweight build to make it easy to take to and from work every day.
Base: The base of the bike is normally supported by two metal legs that keep the bike from sliding around. These legs can vary in length, weight, and build. More portable models will have shorter legs, but these may not be as good at preventing the bike from moving. The best bases have stout and durable legs with large rubber feet to keep the bike firmly in place.
Resistance levels: The more resistance levels your bike has, the longer you’ll be able to use it as a piece of effective workout equipment. When one level becomes too easy, just turn the dial and move to the next. The standard number of resistance levels in the best under desk exercise bikes is 8.
Type of resistance: There are four different types of resistance to be found in exercise bikes: brake resistance, air resistance, direct-contact resistance, and magnetic resistance. We won’t go into details on all of them, because the only one you want in an under desk exercise bike is magnetic resistance. This is because magnetic resistance is silent. The others are not and will bother your colleagues.
Use with arms: Most bikes can also be used with your arms, allowing for upper and lower body exercises. But, not all bikes make it easy. The position of some bikes’ pedals is not conducive to use with arms, while others position their pedals for comfortable arm use and even include finger grips. Be warned though, bikes made for use with arms usually have a higher pedal height.
Security: Your exercise bike is an investment, but it can be a pain to take it everywhere with you. Find a bike with a locking mechanism or a security slot for a lock and you’ll be able to leave your bike in the office at night and over the weekend without worry.
Display: Keep track of your time on the bike, calories, burned and more with an LCD display screen. Most bikes feature a display, but pay attention to its location and size. Some are easier to see and operate than others. Small displays that force you to lean over to see and adjust won’t be appropriate for the elderly or disabled.
Fitness Features: The display (or sometimes a mobile app) will provide access to various fitness features in some bikes. These include measuring speed, distance, ODM and more. Some will let you save your results and times so you can easily set and meet your fitness goals.
Warranty: There’s no better way to assess the quality of a product than by its warranty. The manufacturers of great bikes will stand by their products with a protective guarantee. The best bikes come with warranties that range from 1-3 years.

Which Under Desk Mini Cycle is Right for You?

It’s almost time to decide which under desk bike to make your own. But before you do, ask yourself which of the following categories you fit into. It will help you better decide which bike will help you accomplish your goals

Fitness nut: If you’re looking more to up your fitness game than to change it, then you need a bike with sensitive resistance that reaches high levels. Not only that, but you’ll likely be starting at a higher resistance level in order to push yourself further. This means you need a hefty, durable bike that won’t slip and slide as you push your limits. You’ll sacrifice portability, but hey, think of carrying that heavy bike around as another workout!
Weight watcher: If you just want to lose a few pounds, you’ll be fine with a lighter bike that has decent resistance. For optimal calorie burn, you don’t need to push yourself hard but maintain a steady pace a few times a day. Buy a well-designed bike that fits comfortably under your desk and on your feet. You’ll want to be on it as much as possible, so the ergonomics and pedal height are more important here than fitness features and resistance options. Though, you’ll want to make sure your bike has a calorie counter and a timer at the very least.
First timer: If you’ve never thought much about fitness before, an under desk exercise machine is the perfect way to start. Choose an affordable option that allows you to test the waters. There’s no need to spend on a model with all the bells and whistles—you probably won’t use them anyway.
In recovery: If you need an exercise bike to help recover from an injury or for physical therapy purposes, you should first ask for a recommendation from your doctor or therapist. Resistance isn’t as important in these cases as you’re not trying to push yourself. A simple bike with light resistance is fine. Also, make sure to choose a lightweight and easily portable option, as heavier bikes will add unnecessary strain to your routine.
Retired and ready: Staying fit in your golden years is easier than ever with an under desk exercise bike. Without even standing, you can build muscle, boost stamina, and increase balance while improving heart health and circulation. Choose a bike that you’ll be able to move around without issue. You’ll also want a versatile bike that allows you to exercise your legs and arms. And, if you’re eyes aren’t as good as they used to be, make sure the display is big or detachable.
Family focused: An exercise bike can be beneficial to the entire family. If you want to share with a loved one, make sure to choose a bike that’s versatile and easily adjustable. The foot straps and moving components should be very durable, as your bike is going to get a lot of use. A good warranty is a must. We’d recommend choosing a bike with a handle so it can be passed around easily and safely.

Pedal to the Metal

Getting fit at work is more than just possible—it’s easy! But only with one of the best under desk exercise bikes. If you’re ready to feel healthier and happier at work and at home, then head up to our reviews section to find a bike that’s right for you.