How to Optimize a Standing Desk Treadmill

If you’re an administrative professional, you likely spend a lot of your work hours sitting at a desk. To offset this, many admins and executive assistants are using standing desk treadmills. 

In this article, we break down what a standing desk treadmill is and why you should consider implementing one in your workspace. 

What Is a Standing Desk Treadmill?

A standing desk treadmill is a portable treadmill belt that can be placed under your desk. It must be paired with a standing desk to be used properly. You can purchase a desk treadmill separately if you already have a standing desk. If you don’t have a standing desk, you can purchase both a standing desk and a desk treadmill set. 

A standing desk treadmill allows busy professionals to get their daily steps in and work at the same time. They keep you from sitting for long periods and also help to pass the time during lengthy training webinars, Zoom meetings, or conference calls. Also, they do not go as fast as regular treadmills. They are intended for walking, not running or sprinting. 

The Cost 

On average, a portable desk treadmill ranges anywhere from $200 to $3,000. They come with different folding capabilities, belt padding, and speeds–hence the large range of prices. 

Standing desks were quite expensive when they first hit the market. However, over time we have seen the prices of standing desks become much more affordable. You can purchase a standing desk for around $200, with others ranging upwards of $2,000. 

Switching to a standing desk treadmill can be costly, but you can find a good deal with a little research and price comparison shopping. 

Why You Should Consider Using an Under Desk Treadmill 

Extended periods of sitting can be harmful to your health. This includes sitting at a desk, in a car, or on frequent long flights. Some of the professionals affected the most by extended periods of sitting are executive assistants and admins. Moreover, research has linked extended periods of sitting with the following health concerns: 

• Obesity 

• Increased blood pressure 

• Unhealthy cholesterol levels 

• Higher blood sugar 

• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease 

• Increased risk of cancer 

A Mayo Clinic analysis of 13 different studies demonstrated the impacts of prolonged sitting. Studies showed that sitting for eight hours a day with no physical activity poses the same risks as obesity and smoking. However, studies have also found that just 60 minutes of moderate physical activity during the day could counteract the adverse effects of prolonged sitting. 

Staying Healthy While Working 

If you can’t afford an under desk treadmill or standing desk right away, there’s no need to stress. There are other things you can do to improve your health at work.

Here are some helpful tips for how to get more steps in during your busy work day:

• Take a break from sitting every 30 minutes, even if it's just to stand, stretch and take a few walking laps around your desk or office.

• Stand while on long conference calls.

• Take the stairs rather than the elevator when coming and going from work or to appointments.

• Do walking meetings. If you are meeting with just one or two colleagues, consider chatting while you take a walk outside.

• Add in standing wherever you can. You can do this while waiting for documents to print, in staff meetings (if appropriate), and when waiting for your coffee or lunch.

Fitting in more standing and more steps with these simple changes can become routine and, over time, improve your overall health.

Stay Ahead of the Curve with ASAP 

Ensuring admins are well-informed and well-taken care of is a priority for us here at ASAP. Whether it's keeping you up to date on the latest technology or skills to help you be more efficient at work, we are here to help you succeed. Use ASAP’s training resources to always stay ahead of the curve in your career.