One trend that has increasingly gained popularity in recent years, especially in this era of remote working, is the use of under desk treadmills. Unique, innovative, and with the promise of adding fitness to your work lifestyle without distraction, under desk treadmills seem to keep popping up everywhere. But are they really worth the hype?
The Pros
Let’s start by going through the various benefits of under desk treadmills.
Stay Active, Stay Productive
The most significant advantage of an under desk treadmill is its ability to allow movement while working. Sitting for prolonged periods has been linked to many health problems, including obesity, heart disease, and even early death. An under desk treadmill encourages you to walk while you work, which keeps you active, burns calories, and promotes overall health.
Multitasking at Its Finest
Another benefit is that under desk treadmills can save you a lot of time. You no longer have to squeeze in a workout before or after your work hours because you can do it while you’re actually working. This allows you to maintain your fitness without sacrificing time for other responsibilities.
The Cons
Now that we’ve gone over the benefits, it’s only fair to look at some of the disadvantages associated with under desk treadmills.
Distraction or Focus?
Some people find that walking while they work can be somewhat distracting. Even if the treadmill is designed not to make unnecessary noise, there’s the motion. If you’re not used to it, typing on your laptop or even reading from the screen can be challenging as you walk.
Space-Saver? Not Really
While they may be smaller than traditional treadmills, under desk treadmills still take up space. If you have a smaller working area, fitting in an under desk treadmill might be a headache. Plus, these treadmills aren’t lightweight. Despite claims of portability, moving them around isn’t necessarily easy.
Wrapping Up: Yay or Nay?
So, is an under desk treadmill a yay or a nay? Given the pros and cons, the decision ultimately depends on personal preference. If you plan on using one, start slow. Walk at slower speeds initially to avoid distraction. As you get used to it, gradually increase your speed.
Remember, while innovation like under desk treadmills can support our fitness journeys, they aren’t a complete replacement for traditional exercise. Find what works best for you and incorporate different activities into your routine. Regardless of where you choose to walk or run, remember the journey is all about consistency and enjoying the process.
Regardless, the emergence of gear like under desk treadmills shows promising innovation in the intersection of fitness and technology. Let’s stay tuned for more!
Happy running!
