Can’t Use A Walking Pad? 6 Exercise Equipment Alternatives To Try While Working

It’s no secret that here at Evie we’ve been singing the walking pad’s praises for quite some time. Strolling on one while you work is one of the easiest ways to fit in your highly sought-after 10k steps per day while you answer emails or hop on a Zoom call. And thanks to its increased popularity over the past few years, under-the-desk treadmills are now more affordable than ever.

That being said, not all offices or workspaces are keen on letting employees walk while on the clock. Luckily, there are still ways to work your muscles during your 9-5 that won’t cramp your office style. Here are our favorites:  

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Balance Ball Chair

You’ve probably heard the benefits of sitting on an exercise ball during the workday and how it’s superior to a regular office chair. Since a ball is inherently unstable, your muscles (specifically the ones in your core) have to work to keep yourself upright. In doing so, you’ll tone your core, align your spine, and improve your posture.

This version of a balance ball includes a handy base, which means no more chasing your exercise ball around the room: 

Gaiam Classic Balance Ball Chair, $70 

Don’t feel like splurging? A normal exercise ball without the chair setup works too. In fact, you could argue that it’s more beneficial since your body has to work that much more without the stable base of the chair.  

SmarterLife Workout Exercise Ball, $16

Balance Board 

Anyone else have vague memories of something like this from elementary school PE? Well this version is all grown up and ready to be your workday companion. 

When using it at your standing desk, a balance board can help improve your core strength, coordination, and posture, while activating your lower body muscles. 

As one reviewer said: “Historically, I have had a lot of issues with balance and strength and using these things to be improving drastically. It doesn’t feel like exercise. At the end of the day, my legs definitely feel like they got a bit of a workout.” 

A workday workout that doesn’t feel like a workout? We’ll take it. 

Woodure Professional Wobble Balance Board for Adults, $24

Amazon Basics Wood Wobble Balance Trainer Board, $16

Active Sitting Chair

Those who claim that sitting is the new smoking probably haven’t popped a squat on an active sitting chair.

A similar concept to the exercise ball chair, active sitting chairs are meant to activate your core and leg muscles. They come in several different shapes, but the through line is that they’re designed to make you move and engage your muscles, which means a more toned appearance and less pain from falling into poor posture habits. In fact, some reviewers have said their sciatica pain has improved since switching to an active sitting chair. 

ErgoErgo Ergonomic Stool for Active Sitting, $179

Upaloop Ergonomic Wobble Stool, $160

Upaloop Fitness Seat, $100

Anti-Fatigue Mat 

Standing at your desk on a hardwood or cheaply-carpeted office floor all day can be a literal pain in the butt – and legs and feet and back. Our advice? Invest in an anti-fatigue mat. 

Standing on a properly cushioned mat improves your circulation and makes standing for hours on end more comfortable, which means you’ll be less likely to pull up a chair before your lunch break hits. Some mats even have built-in foot massage devices, so standing may actually feel like a treat. 

KitchenClouds Waterproof Cushioned Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat Rug, $28

Ergodriven Topo Comfort Mat, $129

Mobile Elliptical/Bike Pedal Exerciser 

Similar to a walking pad in that you get some cardio in and boost your heart rate, a mobile elliptical or bike pedal exerciser can make for a better alternative for your workspace since they’re a little more discreet (i.e., quieter and not so bulky). Unlike a walking pad, you can transport a mobile elliptical or pedal exerciser from room to room at your home, leave it under your desk at work, or bring it in each day with relative ease.

Cubii Move Under Desk Elliptical Bike Pedal Exerciser, $200

GUGTTR Under Desk Elliptical Machine, $190

Himaly Portable Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser, $49

Cyclace Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser for Arm/Leg Exercise, $50

Wrist and Ankle Weights 

Slip these on your ankles while you’re at your standing desk (or while using your under-the-desk elliptical/bike) to make each movement that much more effective. Don’t be put off by the seemingly low weight – even carrying an extra pound or two over a long period of time can mean big benefits for your well-being and physique. 

These weights are intended to be used on your ankles or wrists, but note that it’s probably not a good idea to use wrist weights while working at your computer. For one, you’re not moving your arms and hands, so there really aren’t any benefits, and chances are you’re already battling at least some mild carpal tunnel syndrome without the extra weight on your delicate wrists. Instead, slip them on your wrists during a break and do a quick arm workout to boost your circulation and tone your muscles. 

Amazon Pilates Wrist Ankle Weights for Women, $28

Bala Bangles, $55

Just because your job requires you to be on your computer for most of the day, it doesn’t mean you have to fall victim to a sedentary lifestyle. With a few changes in your habits and the right equipment, it’s easy to pack more movement into your day – and your mind and body will reap the benefits.