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Pedal exercisers: choosing one and getting real use out of it
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- Magnetic pedal exerciser with digital display. Best for: Daily use at a desk or in front of the TV. See options on Amazon
- Folding pedal exerciser with tension knob. Best for: Simple, portable seated pedaling. See options on Amazon
- Arm and leg pedal exerciser for tabletop use. Best for: People who also want gentle upper-body work. See options on Amazon
What a pedal exerciser is good for
A pedal exerciser lets you keep your legs moving while you sit: at a desk, watching television or when standing exercise is hard. One maker describes its pedal exercisers as working for the feet on the floor or the hands on a tabletop, with forward or backward pedaling.
Research on these devices is limited, but one project shows how office workers use them:
- Office workers. A University of Iowa pilot study put pedal devices under the desks of 27 employees for 16 weeks. They pedaled for an average of 50 minutes a day, and 70% chose to keep the device afterward. Those who pedaled more were more likely to report weight loss, better concentration and fewer sick days, though these were self-reports in a small study.
- People who find standing exercise hard. A pedal exerciser can be used from a chair, so it is one way to keep the legs moving when standing exercise is difficult. It does not replace the muscle-strengthening activity CDC recommends on at least 2 days a week.
Types of pedal exerciser
| Type | Resistance | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Basic friction model | A tension knob | Simple daily pedaling; often folds |
| Magnetic model | Magnets adjusted with a knob; one maker's version is bi-directional | Smooth pedaling and models with a digital display |
| Chair cycle | One maker's version adjusts from 0 to 29 lb | Clinical use in a bed, chair or wheelchair; often supplied through a practitioner |
| Motorized | A motor turns the pedals or assists you | People who cannot pedal on their own; see electric pedal exercisers |
Specs to compare
- Footprint. One maker's range measures about 11 by 22 by 17 inches. Check that it fits under your desk with your knees clear.
- Weight. Its models weigh from 5.8 to 10 lbs. Lighter is easier to carry; heavier tends to stay put.
- Weight capacity. Its deluxe model lists 220 lb. Check the stated limit.
- Stability. A wide stance and non-slip feet stop it creeping forward.
- Foot straps. Adjustable wrap-around straps, usable with or without shoes, keep feet on the pedals.
- Display. Displays on the same range track items such as time, pedal count, RPM, distance and calories. One magnetic model's display shows 5 functions and runs on 2 AA batteries.
- Folding. Fold-up models are easier to store.
How to use one safely
- Use a sturdy chair without wheels, set far enough back that your knee does not lock straight at the far point of the pedal stroke.
- Put the pedals on a hard floor or a non-slip mat so the exerciser does not slide.
- Strap your feet in and start with the tension low.
- Build up time first, then resistance. Short, regular sessions are easier to keep up.
- For arm work, place it on a stable table and keep your shoulders relaxed.
- Wear supportive shoes. One maker recommends running shoes for its deluxe model.
A pedal exerciser can add to your weekly movement. CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week plus muscle-strengthening activity on at least 2 days, so pair pedaling with other exercise. For people with chronic conditions or disabilities, CDC advises asking a health care professional or physical activity specialist about the right types and amounts of activity.
Common mistakes
- Setting the tension too high. Smooth, steady pedaling beats grinding.
- Sitting too close. The knees end up near your chest and the desk.
- Expecting it to replace walking. It keeps you moving while seated, but it does not replace strength and balance exercises.
- Buying for features you will not use. A simple model used every day does more than a complex one in the closet.
For other low-impact home equipment, see adjustable ankle weights and balance pads.
What to look for when you buy
Magnetic pedal exerciser with digital display
Best for: Daily use at a desk or in front of the TV
Magnetic resistance set with a knob, and one maker's model is bi-directional with a 5-function display, which helps you track time.
Watch out: Needs batteries for the display; check that it fits under your desk.
See options on AmazonFolding pedal exerciser with tension knob
Best for: Simple, portable seated pedaling
Folds for storage and adjusts resistance with a tension knob, with non-slip feet and foot straps.
Watch out: Lighter models can creep on smooth floors; use a non-slip mat.
See options on AmazonArm and leg pedal exerciser for tabletop use
Best for: People who also want gentle upper-body work
One maker designs its pedal exercisers for use on the floor for the feet or on a tabletop for the hands.
Watch out: Set it on a stable table and keep the resistance light for arms.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- Do pedal exercisers really work?
- They help you move more while seated. In a small University of Iowa pilot, office workers pedaled an average of 50 minutes a day. Strength and balance still need their own exercises.
- Can I use a pedal exerciser under my desk?
- Yes, if it fits. One common size is about 11 by 22 by 17 inches; check your knee clearance.
- Are pedal exercisers good for seniors?
- They offer seated exercise for people who find standing exercise hard, but they do not replace strength and balance exercises. If you have a chronic condition, CDC advises checking with a health care professional about the right amount of activity.
- How long should I use a pedal exerciser each day?
- Start with short sessions and build up. The Iowa office workers averaged 50 minutes spread across the day.
Sources
- CanDo Pedal Exercisers (www.fab-ent.com/exercise/pedal-exercisers/cando-pedal-exercisers/), Fabrication Enterprises (maker)
- Pedal Exercisers (www.fab-ent.com/exercise/pedal-exercisers/), Fabrication Enterprises (maker)
- Work, pedal, and be healthy (now.uiowa.edu), University of Iowa (Iowa Now)
- Chronic Conditions and Disabilities Activity (cdc.gov), CDC