For as long as I can remember, riding a stationary bike has been my go-to workout. It's an all-weather activity and something I can do while watching TV or scrolling the internet, which is my favorite part. The truth is that I'm a notorious multitasker, so I've always used biking time to answer emails and do a little bit of work.
The only problem? Most stationary bikes don't have a built-in laptop stand, so I've always had to use my smartphone (not great for answering long emails!) or precariously balance my computer on the edge of my ancient bike's accessory tray (ouch!).
Neither of those are ideal options when you want to get some serious multitasking in, so last year, I decided it was time to find an exercise bike-desk combo that would allow me to comfortably work while working up a sweat. After weeks of careful research, my husband came across the Exerpeutic Adjustable Desk and Folding Exercise Bike,and we decided to give it a try.
Exerpeutic Adjustable Desk Folding Exercise Bike
The built-in desk is fully adjustable
When I first started looking for bike-desk combos, I was surprised that there weren't very many options online, never mind affordable ones that wouldn't set me back the cost of a Peloton. So, I was thrilled when I saw that the Exerpeutic bike had great reviews, a 4.4-star average rating from over 2,000 customers and an approachable price (it's on sale for $245).
When my husband first put the bike together, I noticed that the desk was stationed a bit too far out for my arms to comfortably rest as I typed. Luckily, the setup is totally adjustable and can be moved back and forth depending on which one of us is riding it. You can also adjust the tension (it has eight levels) to make your workout easier or more challenging.
It's perfect for working from home
You've probably heard the phrase "sitting is the new smoking," and that's because most of us sit way too much throughout the day. While working from home, especially, it can be tempting to plop yourself down on the couch and only get up for bathroom and snack breaks. But I've always been someone who gets restless when I'm not moving around enough.
Every morning, I ride the bike for around an hour while I'm working. After that, I switch between sitting and standing for a few hours and hop on again to get my legs moving once more in the afternoon. It keeps me from staying stationary all day and easily folds up, so I can put it in whatever room I feel like working in that day.
I chose the Exerpeutic bike-desk, but Amazon offers a number of affordable and top-rated exercise equipment you can use during your 9-to-5 workday.
Vaunn Medical Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
Trideer Yoga Ball Exercise Chair
FluidStance The Plane Standing Desk Balance Board
The whole setup is spacious and super comfy
One of my concerns when I was looking for a bike-desk combo was that manufacturers would put so much focus on the desk that the bike itself wouldn't have a comfy seat. But the Exerpeutic bike has a nice cushioned seat and an ultra-supportive back. The desk also has a cushioned wrist rest that comes in handy while I'm typing away.
There's plenty of room on the desk for my laptop and mouse, and it also comes with two cup holders that I use to store pens, my phone and beauty essentials like lip balm and hand lotion.
As if that wasn't enough, the bike also features a built-in heart pulse monitoring function and transportation wheels that help you move the bike around without messing up your floors.
It's the best thing I've bought in years
Sometimes, it's the little things in life that make you happy and sneaking in a bit of work while I'm exercising means I have more time to relax later in the day. The Exerpeutic bike is both comfy, practical and affordable, and it's hands down the best thing I've purchased to improve my work-from-home life!
For more products that are helping us reach our fitness goals, check out:
- This compact rowing machine fits in my NYC apartment — and it’s only $85
- This TikTok-loved weighted hula hoop is the most fun I’ve had working out
- These game-changing leggings look and feel expensive but are only $16
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This article was originally written on Feb. 26, 2021.