In today’s work-from-anywhere culture, staying active while working has become a major focus. If you’ve ever felt stiff after sitting at your desk for hours, you’re not alone! One innovative solution gaining traction is the treadmill desk—a workstation that lets you walk while you work.
Treadmill desks aren’t exactly a staple in every office, but they are becoming more popular. Estimates suggest that between 300,000 and 500,000 treadmill desks were in use in the U.S. by late 2013. With the rise of remote work and health-conscious workplaces, that number has likely grown. In fact, one study found that 65% of participants obtained their treadmill desks in 2020 or 2021—showing a major spike in interest.
Treadmill desks come in a variety of price ranges based on features, quality and brand. Budget-friendly under-desk treadmills start at around $300, but durability can be a concern, as frequent users report these models lasting about a year with regular use. Mid-range options ($500–$1,500) strike a balance between affordability and longevity. High-end models can cost upwards of $3,000, offering premium features and top-tier construction.
So right now, you might be thinking that a treadmill desk sounds like it could be a perfect way to get moving without sacrificing productivity, but how practical is it? Let’s delve into the data and explore the scientific evidence to weigh their pros and cons.
The Pros
1) Increased Physical Activity
One of the biggest perks of a treadmill desk is how effortlessly it increases your daily movement. Instead of being stuck in a chair, research indicates that users can burn an additional 100–130 calories per hour at speeds slower than 2 miles per hour, contributing to weight management and reducing long hours of sedentary behaviour. Those 10,000 steps might suddenly become a lot easy to get!
2) Improved Metabolic Health
Beyond just burning calories, using a treadmill desk can positively impact metabolic health. Studies show it can help lower post-meal blood sugar levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol. A systematic review even suggests that treadmill desks may help reduce risk factors for metabolic syndrome, making them a potential tool for preventing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
3) Boosted Mood and Cognitive Function
Moving more has well-documented benefits for mood, focus, and cognitive function. Walking while working has been linked to increased alertness, improved mood, and even enhanced creativity. Studies shows that participants reported better conditions in physical, cognitive, and emotional vigour, as well as more positive mood when they used the treadmill workstation.
The Cons
Ok – so we now know the reasons for – what about the cons? We already know that they are not free, but what else should you consider before purchasing?
1) Impact on Work Performance
While a treadmill desk sounds like a win-win, it’s not perfect. Studies have shown slight declines in fine motor skills, such as typing speed and mouse precision, which could be challenging for individuals whose jobs require high levels of dexterity. It is also important to think about whether the noise and movement could impact on others in your environment.
2) Safety Considerations
Bringing movement into the workplace also means bringing in new safety risks. Slips, trips, and falls can happen, especially if you’re distracted or walking at an inappropriate speed. The key to avoiding injuries? Start slow, wear proper footwear, and choose a treadmill with safety features like handrails or an emergency stop button. It is also important you have enough room for a treadmill desk without impact on other’s safety.
3) Adaptation Period Required
Like any lifestyle change, switching to a treadmill desk takes some getting used to. At first, you might experience fatigue, muscle soreness, or difficulty focusing while walking. Experts recommend starting with short sessions (15–30 minutes) and gradually increasing your time as your body adapts. Once you get into the groove, most users find the benefits outweigh the adjustment period.
Striking a Balance
Treadmill desks offer an innovative way to stay active during the workday, but they aren’t a perfect fit for everyone. Before taking the plunge, consider:
- The health benefits: Increased movement, improved metabolism, and better mood.
- The challenges: Costs, possible typing inefficiencies, a learning curve, potential impacts on others, and safety concerns.
If your job allows for movement and you’re looking to reduce sedentary time, a treadmill desk could be a game-changer for your health and productivity. Just remember—start slow and walk before you run!
This blog article was written by Xiaobing Mei, a second year Physiotherapy student at the University of Queensland during her involvement as a Summer Research Scholar with the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Innovation at UQ’s School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences.
