Sitting too much? Learn how to make an exercise desk to stay active and healthy
Alex McRae- 11 Min To Read
- 25 Aug, 2023
Are you thinking of setting up an exercise station at home? You’re not the only one who is thinking of setting up an exercise desk at home.
Many of us are no longer working in traditional offices and we find ourselves setting up office space at home. You may also need to learn how to manage your workouts and work time if you are a regular exerciser.
Maybe walking to and from your office every day was part of your exercise routine. My daughter, who has been living in shelter with us since the close of graduate school, used to walk 20 minutes each way to her graduate assistantship. What are you going do now that this part of your plan is gone?
You can use your treadmill to keep moving if you have one. You can also walk your dogs. You might also have a job. The solution to this problem is the exercise desk.
What is an exercise desk?
There are many types of exercise desks. Some of these include:
- walking desk
- standing or standup desk
- Desk cycle or bicycle
Since more than a decade, we have used an exercise desk in some form or another. Actually, we now have two of the three types of exercise desks that I mentioned.
A DIY treadmill and walking desk are available, as well as a Peloton for setting up a bike desk. Let me first explain how I created these desks. They allow you to exercise while you work. Next, I will show you how to set up either a standing or standing desk. Finally, I will offer suggestions for how to make these types of desks at home.
You can find tips for items you already have and new ones that you might like to purchase. As much as possible, I will share photos so that it all makes sense.
Treadmill desk
As a New Year’s Resolution, I decided to make a treadmill desk or walking desk. After reading some medical research, I realized that sitting was bad for my health. These studies showed that those who sit too much tend to live longer.
Although I knew I wanted one, I wasn’t willing to spend thousands of dollars to get it into my office. Walking desks can also be called treadmill offices, treadmill treadmills, or treadmill desks. Since we already had a treadmill, I thought there must be a way to convert it into a walking desk.
My husband came up with a solution using items we had at home. Even if you are not a DIY-er, this setup is easy enough to make a treadmill desk.
My DIY walking desk
We created a work area above the existing treadmill. This was done by using a 16-inch board measuring 32.5 inches in depth and 12.5 inches wide. The board is supposed to be used as a shelf for hanging on a wall but it wasn’t being used at the time. Next, we attached the shelf/board to both the handles and the handle of the treadmill. Two bar clamps were used. They tightened with a pumping motion, similar to pulling the trigger on a spray can. Then lock in place.
I can fit my laptop, trackball and pad of paper on the board, which is also known as a desk surface. It’s large enough to hold my pen and pad for writing notes and taking pictures while walking and working. It’s almost like having a regular desk that I can spread out on, but it is suspended above my treadmill.
This is a closeup view of my DIY treadmill walking desk.
How to walk while working at your exercise desk
People are often amazed that I can do both. When I’m at my treadmill desk, I walk at a leisurely pace of 1.5 miles an hour. This is the same pace as you would walk with your dog.
Walking and using the laptop are much easier than you might imagine. I am also very klutzy. Hand writing anything can be a challenge, so I prefer to use the computer.
My treadmill desk allows me to walk an average of 60 extra minutes per day. This all adds up to a lot more exercise I get in my day. My lower back is much less painful than it used too. Because I always stretch afterward. It is vital to stretch.
Spintray for Peloton
My Peloton bike has not been able to double as a workstation. There have been people who have had bike desks or cycle desks. However, these were made with regular spin bikes or stationary bikes. It was not clear if you could convert your Peloton into an exercise bike desk.
Until now.
What is SpinTray?
A SpinTray for Peloton was something I came across recently. It is a piece of acrylic custom-cut that fits over the Peloton handlebars. It has a bit of stick to it, but not like flypaper, so that your laptop won’t slip off.
Save 10% by using code LEAH10 when you check out.
This is a great way to enjoy a “Just Ride” with your Peloton while you check email or work on your computer. This is the Spintray at work!
You don’t want your laptop on the treadmill while you do HIIT or Power Zone classes. If you are looking to my gift guide for Peloton users.
Here’s a photo of my Spin tray, which I have placed on my Peloton bicycle. You can actually work on your computer while riding on the bike.
Here’s a photo of my Spin tray, which I have placed on my Peloton bicycle. You can actually work on your computer while riding on the bike.
Desk for your Peloton
My original SpinTray is still my favorite. The company that invented it now makes many versions for different bikes.
These can be viewed on the company’s website.
Use this exclusive Spintray coupon code: LEAH10 to save 10%
A laptop tray made exclusively by for the Bike Plus has been contacted by me. I have therefore added their product to this page.
for the Bike Plus has been contacted by me. I have therefore added their product to this page.
Spintray for Peloton
Save 10% by using code LEAH10 when you check out.
CycleFrog for Bike Peloton Tray Bike Plus | Etsy
CycleFrog for Bike Peloton Tray Bike Plus | Etsy
StepTray–Laptop Tray to Your Tread
Save 10% by using code LEAH10 during checkout.
SpinTray for Bike Plus
SpinTray’s makers have improved their product by offering different versions of the original SpinTray. You can now choose from a SpinTray for either the original Peloton or Echelon bikes, or the Sunny Health bike.
You can also purchase their e-commerce website. A brand new SpinTray for Bike Plus.
The shape of the Bike Plus Plus SpinTray changed with the Peloton Bike Plus handlebar shape. To avoid confusion, I’m calling it the SpinTray Plus.
I am comparing the Peloton Bike Plus to the original Peloton.
SpinTray is a treadmill
The SpinTray’s creator now sells the StepTray. This is the SpinTray for Peloton Tread.It fits under the Tread’s screen.
However, people have landed on my blog looking for a Peloton bike desk. People are looking for a Peloton laptop tray or holder. Or a Peloton desk attachment. This real SpinTray can help you get work done and keep your Peloton streak alive.
Are you looking for accessories for your tread? This blog post will help you find more accessories for your tread.
StepTray for Peloton
StepTray for peloton transforms your Tread into an efficient, walking desk. This is the original SpinTray that I use on my Peloton bicycle.
Save 10% by using code LEAH10 during checkout
The Steptray - Top Form Design
Save 10% by using code LEAH10 when you check out.
Standing desk
The standing desk is perhaps the most convenient exercise desk. Because if you have a counter at bar height in your home, it’s all you need. Why? Because it is the ideal height for a standing desk.
How to build a standing desk
Imagine that you don’t have a home with a bar-height ceiling. Ours doesn’t have one. So I bought an adjustable height table. I bought mine at Costco, but I have also seen adjustable height tables at Staples that could be used as a standing desk.
Important tip to save money: When you search the Staples website for an adjustable-height table, the first suggestion that the site will make is an adjustable-height desk. That’s exactly what you want. This is not the price that you want to pay. Multiple hundreds of dollars is what we’re referring to.
Amazon also sells adjustable height tables. The one that I saw in person at Costco looks almost identical to this one. It can adjust to three heights.
- 24-inches, which is the height of children.
- Regular table height is 29 inches
- 36 inches is the countertop height
Actually, this height is a bit higher than my Costco table. It measures only 34 inches at its highest point.
A laptop stand can be used to make a standing desk
You can buy a regular table with an adjustable height or a laptop riser. You can transform a regular table to a standing or standing desk by elevating the surface where your laptop is placed.
The laptop stand was created by the folks behind StepTray and SpinTray. It is part of the StepTray. This laptop stand is recommended if you are looking to build your own standing desk. It is affordable and simple to use.
Standing desk with a chair
It seems counterproductive to me to get a chair for a standing table. Hear me.
A balance ball is a better option than a regular office chair. You’ll be forced to use your core and legs while on the balance ball. It’s like a mini-workout throughout the day.
Gaiam, the maker of all my favorite yoga accessories, also makes a balance-ball stool for a standing desk. These are called “active sitting products.
Gaiam Active Sitting chair
Gaiam’s activating sitting chair is a great idea. The stool is basically a Bosu ball.
For your standing desk, get a rug
I recommend that you get a gel pad floor mat if you are going to be working in the kitchen, whether at your standing desk or on any other hard surface. These are often used by chefs in the kitchen and hair stylists in the salon. Hard floors can be hard on your feet and legs.
If you plan to stand while working, it is important that you choose something that will not leave you with sore legs or sore back. It’s a simple decision to get good shoes.
Padded mats for a Standing Desk
You will need an anti-fatigue pad to place underneath your standing or standing exercise desk.
You will need an anti-fatigue pad to place underneath your standing or standing exercise desk.
Oversized Chef Series 24"x36” Antifatigue Kitchen Mats
Oversized Chef Series 24"x36" Antifatigue Kitchen Mats
20x55 Inch Cushioned Anti Fatigue Kitchen Runner Mat
20x55 Inch Cushioned Anti Fatigue Kitchen Runner Mat
HEBE Anti Fatigue Kitchen Rug Sets 2 Pieces Thick Cushioned Kitchen Floor Mats Set Heavy Duty Comfort Standing Mats Waterproof Kitchen Runner Mats(18"x27"+18"x48", Diamond)
Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat Set, KIMODE 2 piece Comfort PVC Leather Heavy Duty Standing Mats, Waterproof Rubber Back For Indoor Outdoor Home office Use, 18"x29"+18’x59"
Anti Fatigue Mat Comfort Flooring Mats for Butterfly Long Kitchen - Ideal for Standing Desks and Kitchen, Material, Waterproof Kitchen Floor Mat, 24x70 inches, Dark.
NewLife by GelPro Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Flooring Mat with 3/4 Thicker Ergo-foam Core, 20"x48", Leather Grain Cranberry
Anti Fatigue Standing Desk Mat- Large Padded Ergonomic Comfort 26.5" x 24.5" Kitchen Office Antifatigue mats
Exercise desk ergonomics
No matter what exercise desk you choose to build or purchase, good ergonomics is essential. This will help you avoid fatigue and sore muscles.
You want to ensure that you’re not looking _down_to view your computer screen. With my walking desk, I placed my laptop on a bin. Next, don’t reach too far for your keyboard or squish your wrists in. You want them to be as comfortable at the desk as you would if they were regular users. Think about your shoes.
What about shoes? Wear sturdy, supportive shoes if you are at a desk. To support your lower back, you might take a step to rest your feet on the ground. For a walking desk, you will need good athletic shoes.
Did you know that your tennis or sneakers should be replaced every 300-500 miles? Sooner if you’re a runner.
Walking my dogs for two miles daily means that I should replace my gear every five to six month. When was the last occasion you changed your shoes? These Brooks running shoes were my last chance to get new ones.
Final thoughts about an exercise desk
My daughters are younger now and I am looking for ways to make them do more activities and complete their schoolwork at home. Many parents are already the SpinTray, then they are getting schoolwork done while pedaling.
Did I miss anything? How did I make my DIY treadmill desk, or any other information about exercise desks? Please leave a comment if you have any questions. I would love to hear from your.
