In the event you spend your workday at a desk, you might be on the lookout for a easy approach so as to add extra exercise to your day by day routine. Look no additional than the under-desk bike, a small however mighty machine that gives a number of well being advantages, together with supporting hip and knee mobility, growing circulation, and burning energy, says Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, a board-certified orthopedic scientific specialist. These compact, office-friendly bikes slide below your desk so you possibly can pedal when you work, which is an effective way so as to add further motion to your day, says Latoya Julce, an authorized private coach and teacher at 305 Health.
To seek out the most effective under-desk bikes in the marketplace at the moment, we consulted well being and health specialists for his or her recommendation on easy methods to safely use these machines and which key options to search for when selecting one. Then, we in contrast dozens of high choices and examined 33 under-desk bikes throughout our typical workday over 4 weeks. When testing under-desk bikes, we consider every one for ease of setup, efficiency, options, and worth. We additionally had a biking and triathlon coach from our Evaluation Board examine this text for accuracy relating to easy methods to correctly use and consider under-desk bikes.
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Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 23 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Adjustable peak, detachable show, Apple Watch and Fitbit suitable | Our Total Ranking: 4.8/5
Who It is For
Greatest for individuals who like a easy setup that will not disturb their co-workers throughout Zoom conferences
Why We Love It
Selecting a quiet under-desk bike is important in case you plan on utilizing it throughout calls or within the workplace. DeskCycle’s 2 Beneath Desk Bike is whisper quiet, tremendous clean, and reliably steady—making it a straightforward alternative for our greatest general decide. It has eight resistance ranges that enhance progressively with the easy flip of a knob that’s simple to show when you’re pedaling. We additionally just like the streamlined look of the bike and that it is suitable with Fitbit and Apple Watch through Bluetooth, permitting us to raised observe our exercises and energy burned.
This bike does not come totally assembled. Nonetheless, it solely took us round quarter-hour to arrange throughout testing. All the pieces was included within the package deal, and we had no hassle following the detailed instructions. We additionally recognize that the LCD show might be faraway from its dwelling on the bike and positioned on our desk. This lets us simply view essential stats, reminiscent of distance traveled, rotations per minute, energy burned, and extra whereas working.
Potential Flaws
- When connected to the bike, the LCD show is positioned too far again to view whereas sitting at a desk.
- The size of the bike might make it too cumbersome to suit below a small desk.
Most Helpful Perception
“The flexibility to simply modify the resistance made it versatile for various exercises, and the graceful transition between ranges added to the general effectiveness and comfort of the bike.” — Mathieu Jean-Lubin, Verywell Match product tester
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Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 75 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Adjustable desk and seat place, wheels for simple portability, cup holder | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who make money working from home and need a compact, simply adjustable bike that additionally doubles as a standing desk.
Why We Love It
Flexispot’s Residence Workplace Cycle Desk Bike includes a distinctive, two-in-one design—it features as an train bike and a standing desk. We particularly recognize its sturdiness and adjustability, as each the bike seat and desk really feel stable and might be simply adjusted to suit every person’s wants. Throughout testing, it offered a clean and really quiet journey. We may simply use it throughout a gathering with out anybody listening to it. Regardless of the added characteristic of the desk, the compact design matches comfortably within the nook of a room and is a breeze to maneuver, because of the wheels on its base.
This bike took us below eight minutes to assemble, however we did word some problem when carrying the packaged product upstairs. It provides a handy workspace and an important exercise, outfitted with a cup holder, a big desk, adjustable resistance ranges, and a battery-powered tracker. We additionally love utilizing the aspect reverse the seat as a standing desk for much more motion throughout our workday.
Potential Flaws
- Throughout testing, we observed that the seat felt a bit uncomfortable at first, however over time, it turned extra comfy to make use of for as much as half-hour.
- Whereas this product provides some nice options, it is among the pricier choices on our checklist.
Most Helpful Perception
“I like that I can stand on the alternative finish of the seat and lift the worktop excessive sufficient to make use of it as a standing desk as nicely.” —Shannon Bauer, Verywell Match product tester
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Light-weight, steady design
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Foldable for handy storage
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Fast and straightforward setup
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 5 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Options: LCD show | Our Total Ranking: 4.2/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who need a primary under-desk bike that’s transportable, extra inexpensive, and a breeze to arrange and retailer.
Why We Love It
In the event you’re on the lookout for a starter under-desk bike or want a budget-friendly possibility, Vaunn Medical’s Beneath Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is a superb alternative. We recognize the bike’s light-weight design and foldable legs for simple portability and storage. We additionally just like the LCD display, which tracks helpful metrics like time and revolutions per minute. Plus, there is a useful strap to safe the bike to your chair for added stability.
Throughout testing, we observed that the setup course of was seamless and that the bike got here nearly totally assembled. The bike’s large base makes it really feel very steady throughout use, nevertheless it took us a few minutes to search out probably the most comfy place. We additionally like how simple it’s to regulate its resistance. All we needed to do was flip the knob to extend or lower the depth degree.
Potential Flaws
- This bike is just a little noisier than different choices on our checklist, so it could not work for many who need to use an under-desk bike throughout calls.
- The bike’s movement is not as clean as others on our checklist. Nonetheless, for the value and high quality, we nonetheless suppose it is an important budget-friendly possibility.
Most Helpful Perception
“For the value, I may see this being an excellent entry-level possibility for somebody who desires to check out an under-desk bike. It’s totally light-weight and simply transportable.” —Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT, affiliate editorial director and Verywell Match product tester
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Feels steady, even throughout quicker motion
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Ahead or backward stride movement
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Extensive, textured pedals provide safe grip
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Not as comfy to make use of standing up
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LCD show is darkish, making it tough to learn
Key Specs
Type: Elliptical | Weight: 24 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Options: Appropriate app, LCD show | Our Total Ranking: 4.3/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who need a sturdy, steady under-desk bike that works with a suitable app that gives meeting assist, audio-based exercises, and extra.
Why We Love It
Stamina’s InMotion Elliptical feels clean and durable throughout use and provides simply adjustable resistance through a easy flip knob. The machine feels well-made and sturdy because of its metal components, and it additionally is available in a number of coloration choices. One in all our favourite points of this product is its compatibility with the müüv good audio teaching app, which provides an meeting information video, customized audio exercises, and integration with iHeartRadio.
We like that we will observe essential metrics on the LCD show, reminiscent of whole strides, train time, and energy burned. We additionally like that the pedals are large and textured, comfortably becoming our toes and offering a safe grip as we pedal. We will pedal ahead or backward, a pleasant characteristic not all under-desk bikes provide. This mini elliptical feels very steady and by no means strikes whereas we’re utilizing it, even once we pedal quicker.
Potential Flaws
- Whereas the producer states that you should utilize this elliptical machine standing upright, we felt uncomfortable and unstable doing so and do not suggest utilizing it this fashion.
- Despite the fact that the LCD show supplies useful metrics, the display is a bit darkish, which makes it tougher to learn.
Most Helpful Perception
“This elliptical bike was simple to assemble, simple to make use of, and comfy, and it supported each toes totally. I used this daily whereas working at dwelling and plan to proceed doing so.” —Katrina Cossey, Verywell Match product tester
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Snug, massive pedals
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Eight resistance ranges
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Carry deal with for simple portability
Key Specs
Type: Elliptical | Weight: 30 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Detachable LCD show, Fitbit- and Apple Watch-compatible, carry deal with | Our Total Ranking: 4.3/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who need an exceptionally quiet elliptical-style exerciser that gives eight resistance ranges and straightforward portability.
Why We Love It
DeskCycle’s Ellipse Beneath Desk Elliptical was the most effective elliptical-style machines we examined. The machine consists of all the required instruments required for fast and straightforward meeting, which took us below ten minutes to finish. Once we used this machine, it was quiet and comfy sufficient that we pedaled for over 90 minutes with out even realizing it. Plus, it provides eight resistance ranges which can be simple to regulate based mostly on our day by day health objectives.
Throughout testing, we famous that the elliptical match completely below our desk with out requiring any chair changes and that its carry deal with made it simpler to maneuver round and retailer. We like that the massive pedals permit us to alter our foot place and that they’ll accommodate these with bigger toes. Like DeskCycle’s Beneath Desk Bike, the model’s under-desk elliptical additionally has a detachable LCD show that may be considered out of your desk for extra handy metrics monitoring. Whereas the tracker does not retailer stats, the producer states the machine is suitable with Fitbit and Apple Watch, making monitoring knowledge over time a breeze.
Potential Flaws
- The LCD show is on the smaller aspect and is not backlit, making it tougher to learn.
- This machine is among the pricier ones on our checklist; nevertheless, we predict its options and high quality make it well worth the funding.
Most Helpful Perception
“I used this under-desk elliptical throughout a Zoom assembly, and after I used to be carried out, I requested the individual on the opposite finish if she may hear it or see my motion. She stated she had no thought I used to be even utilizing it!” —Hildara Araya, Verywell Match product tester
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Clean pedaling
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Intuitive controls
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Carry deal with
Key Specs
Type: Elliptical | Weight: 22 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: LCD show, carry deal with | Our Total Ranking: 4/5
Who It is For
Greatest for entry-level customers who need an at-home elliptical exercise with out a large dedication.
Why We Love It
If you wish to get some cardio at dwelling however haven’t got the area (or finances) for a full-size elliptical machine, Davcreator’s Beneath Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is a superb alternative. We recognize the machine’s clean pedaling movement and the way simple it was to propel into the subsequent stride when testing, even once we cranked up the resistance. The place of the resistance dial and LCD display are simple to see, permitting you to control helpful metrics like stride and revolutions when sitting at your desk. Plus, there is a useful carry deal with for simple portability.
Throughout testing, we observed that the setup course of was simple and took about half-hour to finish, with only some minor hiccups. The bike’s pedaling platforms had been comfy, and the bike remained regular even when pedaling on the best resistance degree. Whereas the options had been fairly primary, every part labored because it ought to, and the value is true for a starter machine.
Potential Flaws
- This elliptical machine is massive and will not match smaller or shorter desks.
- Regardless of being marketed as “whisper-quiet,” noise from the pedals might be distracting, so you might not need to use it throughout work calls.
Most Helpful Perception
“The pedaling platform is comfy, and my toes by no means felt uncomfortable when utilizing it, even over an extended time interval.” —Tatiana Kennedy, Verywell Match product tester
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Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 68 kilos | Resistance Ranges: 4 | Options: Adjustable seat peak, two built-in lights with customizable coloration scheme, accompanying app, built-in wi-fi machine charger | Our Total Ranking: 4.5/5
Who It is For
Greatest for folks with standing desks who need a average exercise.
Why We Love It
Most under-desk bikes provide simply sufficient resistance for a light-weight exercise. If you would like one thing just a little extra strenuous, LifeSpan’s Ampera Desk Bike could be best for you. This versatile machine is definitely one of many extra superior fashions on our checklist, with a built-in generator system that powers the bike’s console and costs digital units when you pedal. We additionally love that it has a cellular app that means that you can change your resistance and observe your exercises.
Throughout testing, this bike made minimal noise and was very comfy to make use of for a number of 30-minute periods. We additionally favored the clean pedaling movement and the way simple it was to maneuver round. We may even slide it below our desk when it wasn’t in use.
Potential Flaws
- Contemplating it’s priced increased than different choices on our checklist, we want it had extra superior options and resistance choices, however we do like how comfy it’s to make use of.
- Whereas the meeting was easy, it took about an hour, and the field it got here in was heavy.
Most Helpful Perception
“Utilizing the bike commonly has elevated my power ranges and improved my focus throughout and after work– making me really feel happier, productive, and engaged.” —Benny Wong, Verywell Match product tester
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Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 15.9 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Distant management, carry handles, three pre-set routines, 18 pace ranges, computerized cease | Our Total Ranking: 4.6/5
Who It’s For
Greatest for folks with mobility points who need a straightforward solution to get a day by day low-impact exercise.
Why We Love It
Whereas many under-desk bikes use magnetic resistance, Sunny Well being & Health’ Motorized Electrical Beneath Desk Bike makes use of a motor to regulate the depth. This—and the accompanying distant—makes it particularly useful for folks with mobility points who might not be capable of attain down and alter resistance ranges manually. We beloved that even with the added motor, this bike was nonetheless very quiet and straightforward to make use of for longer durations. The three pre-set routines are a pleasant contact, and we like that the machine mechanically stops after half-hour of inactivity for security.
We additionally love that it provides 18 pace choices for growing pace and RPMs (revolutions per minute), which is way more than most handbook choices. The bike’s small measurement and built-in handles make it simple to maneuver round, and the distant management was a game-changer for adjusting between the eight resistance choices on the fly.
Potential Flaws
- Although the bottom felt fairly steady, we did discover it shifting after extended use on hardwood flooring.
- We want it had extra superior options for the value.
Most Helpful Perception
“I like that it has completely different pre-set exercise packages, so it retains issues attention-grabbing as an alternative of simply being a continuing rotation.” —Kelly Meehan Brown, Verywell Match product tester
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Carry deal with for simple storage
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Comes with a non-slip mat, resistance bands, and two units of pedals
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Eight resistance ranges
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 18 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Resistance bands, carry deal with, non-slip mat, arm pedals, proprietary app, LCD show | Our Total Ranking: 4.3/5
Who It’s For
Greatest for customers who need the flexibility of getting each an upper-body and lower-body exercise on the similar time, because of the machine’s arm pedals, foot pedals, and resistance bands.
Why We Love It
LifePro’s FlexCycle Train Bike is a superb possibility in case you’re desirous about a multi-tasking under-desk exerciser. It comes with resistance bands and two units of pedals that can be utilized with both your toes or arms, providing each lower- and upper-body train choices. This versatility additionally makes it an important possibility for older adults on the lookout for a compact, transportable train machine for a full-body exercise.
Once we assembled this under-desk bike, we observed that every one of its components had been appropriately labeled, directions had been clear, and the package deal included all the required instruments. Throughout testing, we loved utilizing it whereas on a name, studying, watching tv, and extra, particularly as a result of it is so quiet. We additionally like that it has eight resistance settings and a carry deal with, so we will simply retailer or transfer it when not in use.
Potential Flaws
- Through the meeting course of, we famous that the pedal straps had been tough to connect and alter.
Most Helpful Perception
“I used to be pleasantly stunned by how nicely this bike labored. I are inclined to run chilly, and after biking for 20 minutes throughout a Zoom assembly, I needed to take off the sweater I used to be carrying—it acquired my blood flowing.” —Anna Knief, Verywell Match product tester
What to Know Earlier than You Store for Beneath-Desk Bikes
Beneath-desk bikes will seemingly not offer you sufficient of a full-body exercise (until they arrive with arm pedals or resistance bands), however they could be a good complement to your common health routine. If that you must enhance the depth of your under-desk exercise, you possibly can pace up your stride, enhance the resistance, or add upper-body strengtheners like body weight or dumbbell workout routines. Some under-desk exercisers even include detachable resistance bands that you should utilize for upper-body work.
Some customers might discover that the under-desk bike tends to slide away whereas pedaling, says Marko. To resolve this challenge, she suggests propping your machine towards a wall, inserting an train mat below it, or just buying an under-desk bike with a sturdy really feel and rubber grips.
Beneath-Desk Bikes We Additionally Examined
In whole, we evaluated 33 under-desk bikes and ellipticals, however we solely included 9 in our remaining checklist of suggestions. Whereas a few of these merchandise had stable options, they in the end did not meet the rigorous requirements that we now have for our high picks.
- Cubii’s JR2+ is a self-powered under-desk elliptical with simply adjustable resistance, a transparent show, nice portability, and a seamless setup. Nonetheless, we felt that this dearer machine was not well worth the decrease again ache we skilled whereas utilizing it.
- YOSUDA’s Magnetic Beneath Desk Biking Bike YBM-1 provides simply adjustable resistance, a transparent show for essential metrics, and a clean and silent journey. Nonetheless, we had hassle with the setup course of and did not suppose its high quality aligned with its value level.
What We’ve Up to date
- Since our preliminary under-desk bike check, we have gotten our arms on 4 extra merchandise. We used them throughout our regular workday for 4 weeks. We then up to date our high bike suggestions based mostly on these new testing insights and added extra high quality under-desk bikes to our checklist of favorites.
- We consulted with two new specialists (together with a private coach {and professional} ergonomist) to ensure our recommendation on selecting and utilizing under-desk bikes continues to be updated.
What to Search for in Beneath-Desk Bikes
- Setup: With any piece of health tools, you need a seamless and intuitive setup—nobody desires to spend hours studying an instruction handbook whereas placing collectively an under-desk bike. Earlier than making your buy, check out the setup course of. Some under-desk bikes come totally assembled, whereas others require some meeting. Notice if any crucial instruments are included or if that you must present them your self.
- Type: When searching for an under-desk exerciser, you might discover that under-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals are grouped collectively. Whereas they each have pedals and may help you obtain related outcomes, you might want one over the opposite comfort-wise. Ellipticals are typically smoother and quieter, whereas bicycles provide a fuller vary of movement.
- Weight: Many people might search portability when shopping for an under-desk exerciser. This can be particularly essential in case you’re bringing your exercise to the workplace. Double-check the burden of the under-desk exerciser you’re eyeing earlier than shopping for it to ensure it is simple sufficient to maneuver or transport. You will additionally need one which’s safe and heavy sufficient to remain put whereas in use. Some under-desk bikes even include a strap or deal with, which makes them simpler to elevate and carry.
- Resistance: Many under-desk bicycles and ellipticals include adjustable resistance. This characteristic means that you can scale up the depth of your exercises and helps you construct energy when you pedal or stride. It is also an essential characteristic if you wish to make your exercises more difficult. Search for bikes with a number of resistance ranges and the flexibility to alter ranges simply, reminiscent of with a knob or button.
- Measurement: Ensure you have sufficient room below your desk to accommodate a motorcycle. Sitting too far-off out of your desk may cause you to pressure your shoulder and neck muscle groups. Elevating your desk to suit the bike may place your mouse and keyboards increased than really helpful. If that is the case to your setup, restrict the time you are in that place so you are not placing prolonged strain in your wrists.
How We Examined the Beneath-Desk Bikes
To seek out the most effective under-desk bikes, we completely examined and evaluated 33 bikes in our properties and workplaces for 4 weeks. When testing under-desk bikes, we consider every based mostly on the next key standards.
- Ease of Setup: To guage ease of setup, we first unbox the bike and time how lengthy it takes to assemble any components. We word if any required instruments are included. We additionally consider how clear and easy-to-understand the instructions are. Lastly, if the bike requires batteries, are they included? We prioritize bikes that come totally assembled or are nearly totally assembled with clear directions.
- Efficiency: After positioning the bike appropriately, we pedal for at the least 20 minutes per session and ask ourselves if we will sit comfortably or if it feels awkward or uncomfortable. Is the bike noisy or wobbly and distracting whereas we’re attempting to work? Are the pedals and resistance adjustable? If there’s a show display, is it simple to navigate and browse?
- Options: Some bikes have particular options, like the choice to pedal ahead and backward or Bluetooth connectivity for stat monitoring. Whereas utilizing the under-desk bikes, we word any particular options and consider whether or not they’re simple and useful. We additionally word whether or not they contribute to the general efficiency of the bike or are tough or distracting. We prioritize bikes which have options that improve our expertise.
- Worth: To precisely assess the worth of every bike, we wait till after we have evaluated it for all of its different attributes earlier than we examine its value. Based mostly on the efficiency and our general expertise with the bike, do we predict it’s priced pretty? Would we suggest it to pals or household?
Our Consultants
We collaborated with well being and health specialists throughout our analysis, testing, and reporting for this story. Every skilled offered steering on the correct and secure use of the under-desk bikes we examined. Additionally they offered enter on the advantages of utilizing an under-desk bike and options to search for and keep away from when searching for one. Whereas our product alternatives are impartial, skilled insights assist inform our choices.
- Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, board-certified orthopedic scientific specialist
- Latoya Julce, licensed private coach and teacher at 305 Health
- Lisa Orr, licensed skilled ergonomist at Sedgwick
Regularly Requested Questions
Is an under-desk bike or elliptical higher?
Beneath-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals are extremely related, so neither is essentially higher or worse than the opposite. Beneath-desk ellipticals are typically smoother and quieter, whereas under-desk bicycles have a tendency to supply a fuller vary of movement.
What’s one of the best ways to make use of an under-desk bike?
Beneath-desk bikes are usually positioned below a desk and used whereas working or finishing duties. Nonetheless, they do not have for use with a desk and have a tendency to work nicely if the person is seated on a sofa or chair. It’s essential that you simply really feel comfy whereas utilizing an under-desk bike; in any other case, you’ll be distracted and certain gained’t need to use it. Make it possible for your bike will match below your desk earlier than buying and that there’s sufficient clearance to your knees to maneuver with out hitting the desk.
Are under-desk bikes secure to your knees?
Marko says under-desk biking is a non-weight-bearing train that’s secure to your knees and may very well profit folks with dangerous knees. The movement of biking will increase the secretion of synovial fluid, which helps lubricate the joint and nourish the cartilage, she says.
How a lot does a top quality under-desk bike price?
You’ll be able to anticipate to pay between $50 and $350 for a top quality under-desk bike that may preserve you shifting and reduce the variety of sedentary hours all through your day. Worth will range relying on model and options.
Why Belief Verywell Match
Michelle Parente is a seasoned way of life journalist who’s captivated with making well-vetted product suggestions. She makes a speciality of well being and health content material and is all the time studying up on the most recent wellness analysis.
Extra reporting by Lindsey Lanquist and Shannon Ullman
Verywell Match author Lindsey Lanquist has years of expertise within the well being and health area. For this procuring information, she prioritized under-desk bicycles and ellipticals that had been genuinely well-reviewed by those that’d tried them. She additionally favored choices with adjustable resistance. Since preferences can range a lot on the subject of health machines, she made certain to incorporate under-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals with a variety of options.
Shannon Ullman is a author who focuses on well being and wellness. Her work might be discovered on websites like Insider Inc. and MindBodyGreen. As a longtime distant employee, she’s all the time looking out for methods to remain energetic whereas working from dwelling. She additionally loves ergonomic merchandise that promote good posture and scale back sedentary conduct, reminiscent of under-desk bikes.