Should you spend your workday at a desk, you might be on the lookout for a easy means so as to add extra exercise to your each 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 medical specialist. These compact, office-friendly bikes slide below your desk so you possibly can pedal whilst you work, which is an effective way so as to add further motion to your day, says Latoya Julce, a licensed private coach and teacher at 305 Health.
To search out one of the best under-desk bikes available on the market at the moment, we consulted well being and health consultants 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 prime choices and examined 33 under-desk bikes throughout our typical workday over 4 weeks. When testing under-desk bikes, we consider each for ease of setup, efficiency, options, and worth. We additionally had a biking and triathlon coach from our Assessment Board examine this text for accuracy relating to easy methods to correctly use and consider under-desk bikes.
Key Specs
Fashion: 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
Finest 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 crucial for those who plan on utilizing it throughout calls or within the workplace. DeskCycle’s 2 Underneath Desk Bike is whisper quiet, tremendous clean, and reliably secure—making it a simple alternative for our greatest general decide. It has eight resistance ranges that enhance regularly with the easy flip of a knob that’s simple to show whilst 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 absolutely assembled. Nevertheless, it solely took us round quarter-hour to arrange throughout testing. All the things was included within the package deal, and we had no bother following the detailed instructions. We additionally recognize that the LCD show could be faraway from its dwelling on the bike and positioned on our desk. This lets us simply view necessary stats, comparable to distance traveled, rotations per minute, energy burned, and extra whereas working.
Potential Flaws
- When hooked up to the bike, the LCD show is positioned too far again to view whereas sitting at a desk.
- The size of the bike could make it too cumbersome to suit below a small desk.
Most Precious 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
Key Specs
Fashion: 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
Finest for customers who earn a living 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 capabilities 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 could be simply adjusted to suit every consumer’s wants. Throughout testing, it offered a clean and really quiet trip. We might 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 presents a handy workspace and an amazing 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 seen that the seat felt a bit uncomfortable at first, however over time, it turned extra snug to make use of for as much as half-hour.
- Whereas this product presents some nice options, it is likely one of the pricier choices on our checklist.
Most Precious Perception
“I like that I can stand on the other finish of the seat and lift the worktop excessive sufficient to make use of it as a standing desk as properly.” —Shannon Bauer, Verywell Match product tester
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Light-weight, secure design
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Foldable for handy storage
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Fast and simple setup
Key Specs
Fashion: Bike | Weight: 5 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Options: LCD show | Our Total Ranking: 4.2/5
Who It is For
Finest for customers who need a fundamental under-desk bike that’s transportable, extra reasonably priced, and a breeze to arrange and retailer.
Why We Love It
Should you’re on the lookout for a starter under-desk bike or favor a budget-friendly possibility, Vaunn Medical’s Underneath 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 seen that the setup course of was seamless and that the bike got here nearly fully assembled. The bike’s huge base makes it really feel very secure throughout use, but it surely took us a few minutes to seek out essentially the most snug 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 a bit of noisier than different choices on our checklist, so it could not work for individuals who wish to use an under-desk bike throughout calls.
- The bike’s movement is not as clean as others on our checklist. Nevertheless, for the value and high quality, we nonetheless suppose it is an amazing budget-friendly possibility.
Most Precious Perception
“For the value, I might see this being an excellent entry-level possibility for somebody who needs 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 secure, even throughout quicker motion
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Ahead or backward stride movement
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Vast, textured pedals supply safe grip
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Not as snug to make use of standing up
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LCD show is darkish, making it troublesome to learn
Key Specs
Fashion: Elliptical | Weight: 24 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Options: Suitable app, LCD show | Our Total Ranking: 4.3/5
Who It is For
Finest for customers who need a sturdy, secure 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 presents simply adjustable resistance through a easy flip knob. The machine feels well-made and sturdy because of its metal elements, and it additionally is available in a number of colour choices. One in every of our favourite elements of this product is its compatibility with the müüv good audio teaching app, which presents an meeting information video, personalised audio exercises, and integration with iHeartRadio.
We like that we are able to observe necessary metrics on the LCD show, comparable to complete strides, train time, and energy burned. We additionally like that the pedals are huge and textured, comfortably becoming our ft and offering a safe grip as we pedal. We are able to pedal ahead or backward, a pleasant characteristic not all under-desk bikes supply. This mini elliptical feels very secure and by no means strikes whereas we’re utilizing it, even once we pedal quicker.
Potential Flaws
- Whereas the producer states that you should use this elliptical machine standing upright, we felt uncomfortable and unstable doing so and do not suggest utilizing it this fashion.
- Though the LCD show gives useful metrics, the display is a bit darkish, which makes it tougher to learn.
Most Precious Perception
“This elliptical bike was simple to assemble, simple to make use of, and cozy, and it supported each ft fully. 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
Fashion: 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
Finest for customers who need an exceptionally quiet elliptical-style exerciser that gives eight resistance ranges and simple portability.
Why We Love It
DeskCycle’s Ellipse Underneath Desk Elliptical was among the best elliptical-style machines we examined. The machine contains all the mandatory instruments required for fast and simple meeting, which took us below ten minutes to finish. Once we used this machine, it was quiet and cozy sufficient that we pedaled for over 90 minutes with out even realizing it. Plus, it presents eight resistance ranges which are simple to regulate primarily based on our each 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 vary our foot place and that they’ll accommodate these with bigger ft. Like DeskCycle’s Underneath 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 gadget 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 likely one of the pricier ones on our checklist; nonetheless, we expect its options and high quality make it definitely worth the funding.
Most Precious Perception
“I used this under-desk elliptical throughout a Zoom assembly, and after I used to be achieved, I requested the particular person on the opposite finish if she might hear it or see my motion. She stated she had no concept I used to be even utilizing it!” —Hildara Araya, Verywell Match product tester
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Easy pedaling
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Intuitive controls
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Carry deal with
Key Specs
Fashion: Elliptical | Weight: 22 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: LCD show, carry deal with | Our Total Ranking: 4/5
Who It is For
Finest for entry-level customers who need an at-home elliptical exercise with no huge dedication.
Why We Love It
If you wish to get some cardio at dwelling however haven’t got the house (or price range) for a full-size elliptical machine, Davcreator’s Underneath 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 following 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 seen 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 snug, and the bike remained regular even when pedaling on the best resistance degree. Whereas the options had been fairly fundamental, every part labored because it ought to, and the value is true for a starter machine.
Potential Flaws
- This elliptical machine is massive and should not match smaller or shorter desks.
- Regardless of being marketed as “whisper-quiet,” noise from the pedals could be distracting, so you might not wish to use it throughout work calls.
Most Precious Perception
“The pedaling platform is snug, and my ft by no means felt uncomfortable when utilizing it, even over an extended time interval.” —Tatiana Kennedy, Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Fashion: Bike | Weight: 68 kilos | Resistance Ranges: 4 | Options: Adjustable seat peak, two built-in lights with customizable colour scheme, accompanying app, built-in wi-fi gadget charger | Our Total Ranking: 4.5/5
Who It is For
Finest for individuals with standing desks who need a reasonable exercise.
Why We Love It
Most under-desk bikes supply simply sufficient resistance for a lightweight exercise. In order for you one thing a bit of 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 whilst you pedal. We additionally love that it has a cellular app that permits you to change your resistance and observe your exercises.
Throughout testing, this bike made minimal noise and was very snug to make use of for a number of 30-minute periods. We additionally appreciated the clean pedaling movement and the way simple it was to maneuver round. We might 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 snug 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 Precious Perception
“Utilizing the bike often has elevated my vitality ranges and improved my focus throughout and after work– making me really feel happier, productive, and engaged.” —Benny Wong, Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Fashion: Bike | Weight: 15.9 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Distant management, carry handles, three pre-set routines, 18 pace ranges, automated cease | Our Total Ranking: 4.6/5
Who It’s For
Finest for individuals with mobility points who need a simple approach to get a each day low-impact exercise.
Why We Love It
Whereas many under-desk bikes use magnetic resistance, Sunny Well being & Health’ Motorized Electrical Underneath Desk Bike makes use of a motor to regulate the depth. This—and the accompanying distant—makes it particularly useful for individuals with mobility points who could not have the ability to attain down and alter resistance ranges manually. We liked that even with the added motor, this bike was nonetheless very quiet and simple 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 presents 18 pace choices for growing pace and RPMs (revolutions per minute), which is far more than most guide 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 secure, we did discover it shifting after extended use on hardwood flooring.
- We want it had extra superior options for the value.
Most Precious Perception
“I like that it has totally different pre-set exercise applications, so it retains issues fascinating as an alternative of simply being a relentless 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
Fashion: 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
Finest for customers who need the flexibility of getting each an upper-body and lower-body exercise on the identical 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 for those who’re keen on a multi-tasking under-desk exerciser. It comes with resistance bands and two units of pedals that can be utilized with both your ft or palms, providing each lower- and upper-body train choices. This versatility additionally makes it an amazing 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 seen that every one of its elements had been appropriately labeled, directions had been clear, and the package deal included all the mandatory 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 are able to simply retailer or transfer it when not in use.
Potential Flaws
- Throughout the meeting course of, we famous that the pedal straps had been troublesome to connect and modify.
Most Precious Perception
“I used to be pleasantly stunned by how properly this bike labored. I are likely 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 obtained my blood flowing.” —Anna Knief, Verywell Match product tester
What to Know Earlier than You Store for Underneath-Desk Bikes
Underneath-desk bikes will doubtless 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 it’s essential 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 workouts. Some under-desk exercisers even include detachable resistance bands that you should use for upper-body work.
Some customers could discover that the under-desk bike tends to slide away whereas pedaling, says Marko. To resolve this problem, she suggests propping your machine in opposition to a wall, putting an train mat below it, or just buying an under-desk bike with a sturdy really feel and rubber grips.
Underneath-Desk Bikes We Additionally Examined
In complete, we evaluated 33 under-desk bikes and ellipticals, however we solely included 9 in our ultimate checklist of suggestions. Whereas a few of these merchandise had stable options, they in the end did not meet the rigorous requirements that we’ve for our prime picks.
- Cubii’s JR2+ is a self-powered under-desk elliptical with simply adjustable resistance, a transparent show, nice portability, and a seamless setup. Nevertheless, we felt that this dearer machine was not definitely worth the decrease again ache we skilled whereas utilizing it.
- YOSUDA’s Magnetic Underneath Desk Biking Bike YBM-1 presents simply adjustable resistance, a transparent show for necessary metrics, and a clean and silent trip. Nevertheless, we had bother 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 palms on 4 extra merchandise. We used them throughout our regular workday for 4 weeks. We then up to date our prime bike suggestions primarily based on these new testing insights and added extra high quality under-desk bikes to our checklist of favorites.
- We consulted with two new consultants (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 Underneath-Desk Bikes
- Setup: With any piece of health tools, you need a seamless and intuitive setup—nobody needs to spend hours studying an instruction guide whereas placing collectively an under-desk bike. Earlier than making your buy, check out the setup course of. Some under-desk bikes come absolutely assembled, whereas others require some meeting. Be aware if any essential instruments are included or if it’s essential present them your self.
- Fashion: When purchasing 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 also help you obtain comparable outcomes, you might favor one over the opposite comfort-wise. Ellipticals are typically smoother and quieter, whereas bicycles supply a fuller vary of movement.
- Weight: Many people could search portability when shopping for an under-desk exerciser. This can be particularly necessary for those who’re bringing your exercise to the workplace. Double-check the load 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 raise and carry.
- Resistance: Many under-desk bicycles and ellipticals include adjustable resistance. This characteristic permits you to scale up the depth of your exercises and helps you construct energy whilst you pedal or stride. It is also an necessary characteristic if you wish to make your exercises tougher. Search for bikes with a number of resistance ranges and the power to vary ranges simply, comparable to with a knob or button.
- Measurement: Be sure you have sufficient room below your desk to accommodate a motorbike. Sitting too distant out of your desk could cause you to pressure your shoulder and neck muscle tissues. Elevating your desk to suit the bike might place your mouse and keyboards increased than really useful. If that is the case to your setup, restrict the time you are in that place so you are not placing prolonged stress in your wrists.
How We Examined the Underneath-Desk Bikes
To search out one of the best under-desk bikes, we totally examined and evaluated 33 bikes in our properties and places of work for 4 weeks. When testing under-desk bikes, we consider every primarily based 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 elements. 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 absolutely assembled or are nearly absolutely assembled with clear directions.
- Efficiency: After positioning the bike appropriately, we pedal for a minimum of 20 minutes per session and ask ourselves if we are able to sit comfortably or if it feels awkward or uncomfortable. Is the bike noisy or wobbly and distracting whereas we’re making an attempt to work? Are the pedals and resistance adjustable? If there’s a show display, is it simple to navigate and skim?
- 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 troublesome 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. Primarily based on the efficiency and our general expertise with the bike, do we expect it’s priced pretty? Would we suggest it to associates or household?
Our Specialists
We collaborated with well being and health consultants throughout our analysis, testing, and reporting for this story. Every skilled offered steering on the right and secure use of the under-desk bikes we examined. In addition they offered enter on the advantages of utilizing an under-desk bike and options to search for and keep away from when purchasing for one. Whereas our product alternatives are unbiased, skilled insights assist inform our selections.
- Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, board-certified orthopedic medical specialist
- Latoya Julce, licensed private coach and teacher at 305 Health
- Lisa Orr, licensed skilled ergonomist at Sedgwick
Incessantly Requested Questions
Is an under-desk bike or elliptical higher?
Underneath-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals are extremely comparable, so neither is essentially higher or worse than the opposite. Underneath-desk ellipticals are typically smoother and quieter, whereas under-desk bicycles have a tendency to supply a fuller vary of movement.
What’s the easiest way to make use of an under-desk bike?
Underneath-desk bikes are usually positioned below a desk and used whereas working or finishing duties. Nevertheless, they do not have for use with a desk and have a tendency to work properly if the consumer is seated on a sofa or chair. It’s necessary that you just really feel snug whereas utilizing an under-desk bike; in any other case, you’ll be distracted and certain received’t wish to use it. Be sure that 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 individuals with unhealthy 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 high quality under-desk bike value?
You’ll be able to count on to pay between $50 and $350 for a high quality under-desk bike that may hold you shifting and reduce the variety of sedentary hours all through your day. Worth will fluctuate relying on type 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 focuses on well being and health content material and is all the time studying up on the newest wellness analysis.
Further reporting by Lindsey Lanquist and Shannon Ullman
Verywell Match author Lindsey Lanquist has years of expertise within the well being and health house. 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 fluctuate a lot in terms of health machines, she made certain to incorporate under-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals with a spread of options.
Shannon Ullman is a author who focuses on well being and wellness. Her work could be discovered on websites like Insider Inc. and MindBodyGreen. As a longtime distant employee, she’s all the time looking out for tactics to remain energetic whereas working from dwelling. She additionally loves ergonomic merchandise that promote good posture and scale back sedentary conduct, comparable to under-desk bikes.