
As a collegiate athlete who has trained in several small to world-class gyms, I’ve been able to test out different types of Pedal Exercisers on the market.
However, out of the eight Pedal Exercisers that we got to test and research, we recommend the DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser because of the low pedal height and has everything that you’re looking for a smooth and easy pedal exerciser workout.
It provides 8 different resistance settings allowing you to calibrate the difficulty to your current intensity level. Since the resistance uses magnets, the pedal motion is smooth and there is barely any noise.
The display monitor displays time, speed, distance, calories, and scan. With a bidirectional pedaling system, you’re able to move forward and back.
The Top Pedal Exercisers Reviewed
Product Image | Product's name | Height | Resistance Type | More Info |
---|---|---|---|---|
[amazon fields="B015PGAJK4" value="thumb"] | Best Functional [amazon fields="B015PGAJK4" value="title" title_length="100"] | 10.25 inches | Magnetic | [amazon fields="B015PGAJK4" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B00QIM5CMA" value="thumb"] | Best Compact and Sturdy [amazon fields="B00QIM5CMA" value="title" title_length="100"] | 14 inches | Magnetic | [amazon fields="B00QIM5CMA" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B00B1VDNQA" value="thumb"] | Best Overall [amazon fields="B00B1VDNQA" value="title" title_length="100"] | 10 inches | Magnetic | [amazon fields="B00B1VDNQA" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B07BVWP2LN" value="thumb"] | Best Minimalistic [amazon fields="B07BVWP2LN" value="title" title_length="100"] | 11.75 inches | Friction | [amazon fields="B07BVWP2LN" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B00W46YILA" value="thumb"] | Best Innovative [amazon fields="B00W46YILA" value="title" title_length="100"] | 12.5 inches | Magnetic | [amazon fields="B00W46YILA" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B000V53KD8" value="thumb"] | Best Sturdy [amazon fields="B000V53KD8" value="title" title_length="100"] | 16 inches | Magnetic | [amazon fields="B000V53KD8" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B001IV6MV6" value="thumb"] | Best Exerciser for Senior [amazon fields="B001IV6MV6" value="title" title_length="100"] | 13 inches | Motorized | [amazon fields="B001IV6MV6" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B009KYRHVC" value="thumb"] | Best Handicapped [amazon fields="B009KYRHVC" value="title" title_length="100"] | 16.5 inches | Motorized | [amazon fields="B009KYRHVC" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B079STYRGF" value="thumb"] | Best Work Option [amazon fields="B079STYRGF" value="title" title_length="100"] | 37.2 inches | Magnetic | [amazon fields="B079STYRGF" value="button"] |
[amazon fields="B074F1S194" value="thumb"] | Best Compact [amazon fields="B074F1S194" value="title" title_length="100"] | 23.5 inches | Magnetic | [amazon fields="B074F1S194" value="button"] |
Find the Best Pedal Exercisers for You
Best Functional
#1- [amazon fields=”B015PGAJK4″ value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B015PGAJK4″ value=”button”]Platinum Fitness have been helping individuals deliver leading health solutions and helping individuals get results for many years. They pride themselves through their highly detailed and meticulous quality control ensuring that every product you get will be high quality and durable.
The Platinum Fitness Pedal Exerciser has a quick folding frame making it very easy to move and store. With an ankle strap that can be tightened to your feet size ensures your feet stays stable, removing the risk of your feet sliding.
The pedal exercise is a simple but effective exercise to improve your mobility and range of motions if you’re currently rehabbing knees or hip replacement. It has a 5 function LCD screen that tracks the time pedalling, the distance pedaled, total revolutions, calories, and RPM.
With five different colors available, the Platinum Fitness Fit Sit Deluxe Folding Pedal Exerciser Leg Machine is one of the best food pedal exerciser on the market that has all the functionality you need for a great workout.
Pros
- Affordable
- Foldable and Lightweight
- Ankle straps adds an extra comfort and protection in pedalling as hard as you can
- Great for individuals rehabbing and physical therapy
Cons
- Resistance may not be enough for advanced athletes
- Not meant for vigorous cardio exercising
Best Compact and Sturdy
#2- [amazon fields=”B00QIM5CMA” value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B00QIM5CMA” value=”button”]Sunny Health and Fitness are the premier distributor and importer for high-quality fitness and health products. As they source directly through their manufacturers, their pricing is more competitive, providing you an affordable way to get healthy.
THe Magnetic Mini Exercise bike is perfect for burning extra calories while you’re watching TV or during your product days at work. It can be easily placed under your work desk and is compact enough to be used anywhere as long as you are sitting down.
It uses magnetic resistance and provides 8 different levels of difficulty, allowing you to choose the intensity of your workout. These are known to be quiet which can be perfect if you have neighbors, roommates, and family that do not like loud noises.
With a digital display that shows the speed, distance, ODM, calories, and time, it provides all the information you need for a fantastic workout.
If you’re looking a compact and sturdy exercise bike, we recommend having a look at Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
Pros
- Can be used as an upper body and lower body trainer
- Easy to use
- Portable and Compact
- Has 8 Levels of resistance
Cons
- 200 lbs maximum user weight
Best Overall
#3- [amazon fields=”B00B1VDNQA” value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B00B1VDNQA” value=”button”]DeskCycle are a division of 3D innovations. They specialize in engineering and customer support, providing fitness enthusiasts with new and improved products to make it easy and convenient to get a healthy exercise.
The DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser has one of the lowest pedal heights available at 10 inches. This means the pedal exerciser can fit beneath the table and desks as high as 27 inches.
It provides 8 different resistance settings allowing you to calibrate the difficulty to your current intensity level. Since the resistance uses magnets, the pedal motion is smooth and there is barely any noise.
The display monitor displays time, speed, distance, calories, and scan. With a bidirectional pedaling system, you’re able to move forward and back.
The DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser provides you the flexibility and compactness to exercise anywhere and at any time.
Pros
- Comes with display stand for convenient viewing
- Lowest pedal height exerciser on the market
- Quiet and smooth magnetic pedal motion
- Can access to their online activity log and track your progress
Cons
- The velcro pedal straps can be a bit loose and not as sturdy
Best Minimalistic
#4- [amazon fields=”B07BVWP2LN” value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B07BVWP2LN” value=”button”]Vaunn Medical is one of the fastest growing global distributors of medical and fitness equipment. The company distributes and markets products to customers to help them ensure they live a healthier life.
The Vaunn Pedal Exerciser helps to contribute to their vision. It can be used for both arm pedal bike and foot pedal bike exercise which is great for rehabbing. As it comes fully assembled, you can begin exercising immediately when you open it from the box.
It is labeled by the American Physical Therapy Association as a great low impact tool for muscle toning and rehabbing. With the one-piece design, it makes the frame more stable and less wobbly.
If you’re looking for a very simple and basic pedal exerciser, we recommend you checking out Vaunn Pedal Exerciser.
Pros
- 2 in 1 – Leg and Arm Exercise
- Great for rehab and toning muscles
- Sturdy one piece design
- Portable and lightweight
Cons
- No LCD screen
- Basic functionality
Best Innovative
#5- [amazon fields=”B00W46YILA” value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B00W46YILA” value=”button”]VIVE puts their heart and soul into existence to help people achieve a healthier lifestyle. This iodine by providing a holistic approach to exercising. Whether your goals are to build strength, lose weight, or get healthy, VIVE focuses on creating products to solve all your problems.
The machine is designed for toning your muscles, increasing circulation around your body, and improving your overall concentration levels. The peddlers are easy to assemble and can be quickly used to strengthen your quads, calves, glutes, and hamstrings.
The compact design allows the pedal exerciser to fit under most desks with a height of 12.5 inches. Each pedal is made with non-slip rubber to ensure your feet don’t slip when you pedal hard.
With several different resistance levels that can be changed easily with a tension knob, this is the perfect tool for beginners and individuals that are rehabilitating from an injury or surgery.
It also connects with their Vive Fit App that shows your workout progress including, RPM, Time, Distance, Speed, and Calories.
If you’re looking for an innovative pedal exerciser, we recommend having a look at Vive Pedal Exerciser Stationary Exercise Leg Peddler.
Pros
- Pedaling using Vive has been said to increase concentration levels
- Built in display and connects with their Vive App
- Easy to assemble and portable
Cons
- No warranty included
Best Sturdy
#6- [amazon fields=”B000V53KD8″ value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B000V53KD8″ value=”button”]MagneTrainer is one of the leading Extended Range pedal exerciser bikes on the market. Providing you the flexibility to exercise anywhere while you’re sitting down and your legs are free.
The MagneTrainer is a lightweight compact pedal exerciser that is made out of sturdy steel frame. With a 15 inch wide base and a patented magnetic resistance, it provides more resistance and control than other pedal exercisers on the market. You can easily change the resistance by pressing a button.
The pedals are molded with finger grooves that fit your hands or feet comfortably. The velcro is adjustable making it perfect for any hand or feet. With the smooth pedal motion, it makes a great exercise for your joints.
If you’re looking for a sturdy pedal exerciser, we recommend checking out MagneTrainer.
Pros
- Versatile Machine perfect for muscle toning and strengthening your lower and upper body
- Sturdy steel frame to ensure it doesn’t move when pedalling
- Patented magnetic resistance system
- Finger grooved pedal and handlebars
Cons
- May not fit under an average sized desk
- Bulky
Best Exerciser for Senior
#7- [amazon fields=”B001IV6MV6″ value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B001IV6MV6″ value=”button”]Exerpeutic is a manufacturer of pedal exercisers, treadmills, and a line of other indoor bike options. By combining the latest technology with durable, innovative training models, Exerpeutic provides you the tools to get an effective bike and cycling workout at home.
Exerpeutic Pedal Exerciser is different as it uses a motor instead of the standard magnetic resistance. They have done studies proving that their exercise bike strengthens muscles, building endurance, blood circulation, and improves your overall balance for senior citizens.
The machine is not catered for vigorous cardio but to guide the fitness users to add a bit of resistance to the movement. It uses a handheld dial to control the motor speed and be conveniently placed on the machine base or removed so it’s easier to access.
The LCD screen tracks all the information for your workout including the time, speed, distance, and calories spent.
If you’re looking for a pedal exerciser that is made for senior people, we recommend having a look at Exerpeutic Motorized Leg and Arm Pedal Exerciser Mini Exercise Bike
Pros
- Easy to work out with the moto-assist features
- Perfect for senior citizens and orthopedic patients
- Comes with a non-slip mat with the purchase
- Manual mode with the motor provides a stronger resistance
Cons
- Must connect to a power source
- Motor system means more likely to malfunction
Best Handicapped
#8- [amazon fields=”B009KYRHVC” value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B009KYRHVC” value=”button”]Modini has been creating innovative, affordable medical equipment for many years. Focused on outperforming the conditions to provide effective communication, consistency, superior service, and equipment to help build a healthier, stronger you.
As many people who are disabled or on a wheelchair for a certain period of time, they may lose mobility and overall fitness health. The Foot Splints and Motorized Exercise Cycle provides you with a pedal exerciser to assist in their cardio workouts without much movement.
One of the best features for this machine is the stability and even more for people who are injured. That’s why it’s packed with safety features such as a non slip-base for the pedals and smooth pedaling motion.
If you’re looking for a pedal exerciser that can be used while you’re injured and on the wheelchair, we recommend having a look at Modini-Z-40 Sago Foot Splints For The Handicapped & Disabled.
Pros
- Low impact workout
- Perfect for disabled and individuals on a wheelchair to use
- Wide non-slip base to prevent injuries or sudden movements
- Cabled remote control for more flexibility
Cons
- Expensive
- Short warranty
Best Work Option
#9- [amazon fields=”B079STYRGF” value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B079STYRGF” value=”button”]Flexispot believes there is always a healthier way to work. They are passionate about transforming conventional workspaces into active environments that support productivity and wellness. They imagine, design, and bring to life ergonomic solutions that help people lead a healthier and more productive life.
The Flexispot Pedal Exerciser is a different pedal exerciser than the rest on the market. Unlike normal foot peddlers, the Flexispot is a full exercise pedaller that is attached to a seat. Although it’s limited in its portability, it provides you with easy-rolling casters which can be locked to prevent movement and unlocked to store it somewhere else.
It has 8 different resistance levels and an adjustable seat, perfect for any type of person. If you’re looking for an exercise bike that already has a chair attached to use for work, we recommend having a look at FLEXISPOT Adjustable Exercise Bike Desk Standing Desk Cycle for Home Office.
Pros
- Comfortable and adjustable seat
- Locked in rolling casters for security and portability.
- Durable
- High user weight
Cons
- Only works with a standing desk
- Small LCD display console
Best Compact
#10- [amazon fields=”B074F1S194″ value=”title” title_length=”100″]
[amazon fields=”B074F1S194″ value=”button”]Cubii focuses on changing how the world thinks about fitness. By making exercising accessible to all physical abilities, lifestyle, and ages. No matter your situation, Cubii provide their customer ways to get fit and healthy, one stride at a time.
The Cubii Jr Mini pedal exerciser is the most compact pedal exerciser on the market in terms of size. As it’s a pedal exerciser, it allows you to work out, no matter your situation. Whether you’re playing games, working at a desk, or watching TV, you can get a quick workout in.
There is a small display monitor in the center of the machine that shows you the distance traveled, steps or strides, duration, and calories burned. This is also included with eight different resistance levels, providing you complete control over the intensity of your workout.
With their whisper-quiet technology and patented ergonomic angles, you can workout anywhere without worrying about the noise or injury.
If you’re looking for the best compact pedal exerciser for use that you can take anywhere, we recommend you trying out the Cubii Jr Mini pedal exerciser.
Pros
- Compact and Small making it very easy to pack and store
- Versatile as you sit or stand while using it
- Can display the essential stats and information for your workout
Cons
- Limited on the features due to the focus being compact and small
Pedal Exerciser Buying Guide

What Are Pedal Exercisers
A pedal exerciser is a small home training device that is designed to provide muscle toning and cardiovascular work while improving joint flexibility and blood circulation around the limbs.
Flywheels typically contain two pedals that can be pedalled like a bike. These are simple machines with a basic structure designed for individuals looking for low impact exercising in the comfort of their own home, sitting on a wheel chair or being in a hospital bed.
The Benefits Of Using A Pedal Exerciser

Pedal Exercises are not made for high intensity workouts. They are more for low to moderate intensity workouts as it increases your heart rate and strengthens your body’s cardio system over time through longer workouts.
It allows people who are usually inactive to take the first step for a healthier life.
Here are some benefits when you’re using a Pedal Exerciser:
Portability
When you’re looking for indoor exercise equipment, you may look at exercise bikes or treadmills. However these are bigger and harder to move, especially if you have a small room. Being able to move it in and out can be a time saver especially after a hard workout.
Pedal exercisers provide you the portability to be folded and carried with you so you can get a solid workout in, anywhere you go.
Ability To Multitask
When you pedal, you don’t need to use much brain power as it’s one simple motion. The pedal exerciser allows you to work out as you work, underneath your desk, without it distracting you or anybody else in your office.
As you apply conscious effort to keep your legs on the pedals and pushing it consistently, you’re less likely to fall asleep on your desk. Over time this will burn more calories, leaving a healthier and fitter you.
Burns More Calories Consistently
The pedal exerciser may not provide an intensive half an hour of treadmill running as it focuses on keeping your heart rate higher. This results in more fresh air that helps your blood circulation while burning calories.
Most pedal exercises have a calorie counter that displays time, speed, distance, calories, and scan of your workout.
Affordable
Stationary workout equipment can be expensive, often ranging hundreds to thousands of dollars. A pedal exerciser is a small compact and cheap piece of machinery that can help get your fitness journey started.
Keep Your Joints Healthy
People who don’t move around a lot tend to be more likely to develop arthritis and other joint problems. This makes it worse with an unhealthy diet.
A pedal exerciser helps your body move together and strengthen your ankle, hip joints, and knees to keep your bones strong.
Staying Fit After Injury
If you have an injury or can’t workout, using a pedal exerciser can be a great way to maintain your fitness. As it is a low impact exercise, it puts less stress on your joints. These machines are perfect for strengthening your muscles and joints as you do rehab.
What To Look For When Purchasing A Pedal Exerciser

Size
All pedal exercisers are portable but some may not fit under your desk. When you’re looking for a pedal exerciser, make sure to consider the pedal height off the floor and the height of your desk.
Safety & Stability
The primary way to see how safe a pedal exercise is to look at the durability and stability. A solid pedal exerciser should rest flush against the floor and has no wobble when being peddled.
Having a stable machine is the best way to prevent any injuries from occurring.
Resistance
Pedal Exercisers come with different resistance settings. Some use a motor and others use magnetic. If you’re looking for a moderate workout, I would recommend finding an exerciser that has a higher resistance.
If you’re looking to increase your blood circulation and get a few more calories off throughout the day, resistance will not be a big factor. Normally the resistance can be adjusted with a knob or a button that is found at the front of the machine.
Pedal Straps
Straps on a pedal exerciser influences your overall comfort when pedalling. The straps keep the feet in place and that is why you should always find one that is comfortable, non slippery, and adjustable.
As you may be wearing shoes when pedalling, they can be a bit bulky. That is why adjustable straps are crucial to ensure your feet fit snug on the pedals.
Usability
Make sure the pedal exerciser is easy to use. Ask these questions:
Does it give you the ability to pedal both forwards and backwards?
Is the pedalling action smooth or is it jerky and inconsistent?
Noise Levels
If you live in a household that has roommates and neighbors that dislike noises, finding a pedal exerciser with minimal noise is crucial. Most magnetic resistance pedal exercisers are silent.
Warranty
As you will be probably using the pedal exerciser most days, make sure to check the warranty. Typically courage is for one year while some manufacturers may have no warranty or certain part warranty. Make sure you find to ensure that you can use your pedaller for a long time.
What Are The Different Resistance Types Available for Pedal Exercisers
Resistance is the difficulty that can be added to the workout. As you’re fighting against a stronger force, your body has to work more and challenge itself to perform the same motion.
There are two main different resistances that pedal exercisers use.
Magnetic Resistance
Magnetic Resistance gives you more precision for resistance. As it’s the strength of the magnets inside of the pedal exerciser that is controlling them.
The benefit is that the pedal exerciser is more silent and provides you more control.
Motorized Resistance
Fan resistance provides a smoother ride and often needs electricity. Normally these are manually adjusted and have less precision on the resistance.
FAQs for Pedal Exercisers
How Do Pedal Exercisers Keep People Fit?
Pedal Exercisers help you to get you moving for longer. As lack of activity and exercising is very common among the working world today, the pedal exercisers can help improve your fitness from the increased blood circulation, muscle toning and strengthening.
Which Muscles Are Being Used On A Pedal Exerciser Machine?
When you’re using your lower body to pedal, the main muscle groups that are being worked at are the hamstrings, calves, quads, and glutes.
When you’re pedaling with your arms, the cycling motion works your shoulders, forearms, triceps, and biceps.
Can Seniors Benefit From Pedal Exercisers?
Yes, for seniors who want to reduce the effects of arthritis, having the body move frequently is a great way to strengthen your body.
Can I Use a Pedal Exerciser At Work?
Yes, make sure it can fit under your desk and your legs have enough room to move. Most are not noisy and distracting, so it’s a perfect way to get fit while working.
Conclusion
When choosing a Pedal Exerciser, there are many factors to consider. The room size and height, budget, your fitness level, and overall space.
However, out of the eight Pedal Exercisers that we got to test and research, we recommend the DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser because of the low pedal height and has everything that you’re looking for a smooth and easy pedal exerciser workout.
It provides 8 different resistance settings allowing you to calibrate the difficulty to your current intensity level. Since the resistance uses magnets, the pedal motion is smooth and there is barely any noise.
The display monitor displays time, speed, distance, calories, and scan. With a bidirectional pedaling system, you’re able to move forward and back.
The DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser provides you the flexibility and compactness to exercise anywhere and at any time.
If you’re a little bit older and you’re looking for something that increases blood flow to reduce arthritis, we recommend taking a look at Exerpeutic Motorized Leg and Arm Pedal Exerciser Mini Exercise Bike.
Exerpeutic Pedal Exerciser is different as it uses a motor instead of the standard magnetic resistance. They have done studies proving that their exercise bike strengthens muscles, building endurance, blood circulation, and improves your overall balance for senior citizens.
The machine is not catered for vigorous cardio but to guide the fitness users to add a bit of resistance to the movement. It uses a handheld dial to control the motor speed and be conveniently placed on the machine base or removed so it’s easier to access.