An under desk walking pad only works if the pad and the desk suit each other. Most problems people have, such as sore wrists, a neck craned at the screen or a pad that sits in the wrong spot, come down to measurements. This guide is the measuring and set-up part. If you are still deciding whether a walking pad suits your working day, or want advice on speed, noise and tips for walking while you work, read our walking pad for working from home guide first. Not sure which pad to choose? Our best walking pad UK guide compares what matters.
What you need before you start
- A desk that goes to standing height. A height adjustable (sit-stand) desk is the easiest option. A desk converter that sits on top of a normal desk also works.
- A clear stretch of floor under and in front of the desk.
- A tape measure, a pen and a few minutes.
A walking pad beside a normal seated desk isn't practical, because you can't get your arms in a comfortable position while standing.
Step 1: Find your desk height
Don't trust a number from a chart. Your height, your shoes and the pad itself all change the answer. Use this test instead:
- Put the pad where it will sit.
- Stand on the belt in the shoes you will wear, relaxed and tall.
- Bend your elbows to a right angle with your forearms level.
- Ask someone to measure from the belt to your forearms, or mark the spot on the wall.
- Set the desk surface at that height.
Measure from the belt, not the floor, because the belt sits above the floor. Write the number down so you can reset the desk quickly. Many sit-stand desks have memory buttons for this.
Screen and keyboard
Your screen should be at eye level so your neck stays straight. Keep the keyboard close so your shoulders stay relaxed, and put your mouse at the same height as the keyboard.
Step 2: Measure the space around the desk
This is the step most people skip. Measure these before you buy:
- Clear width between the desk legs. Include any cross bar or cable tray. The 3 Series is 59 cm wide, so compare your measurement with that to see how much room you have. If your desk is narrow, the pad can sit just behind the desk legs.
- Length in front of the desk. The 3 Series belt is 100 cm long and the pad is 124 cm long unfolded. You want to walk in the middle of the belt, not near the front edge.
- Overall height. The 3 Series is 101 cm tall unfolded, and that includes the handrail. Fold the handrail down and the pad works under a standing desk. Compare the height with the underside of your desk and any drawers.
- Socket position. Keep the plug within easy reach, and run cables away from the belt and the desk legs.
Step 3: Tidy the cables and the floor
- Run the pad's power lead along the wall or a cable channel, not across your walking space.
- Keep the desk's own power and monitor leads clear of the belt.
- Put the remote that comes with the pad on the desk edge, so you can reach it without bending down.
- Walk in the middle of the belt. If you drift to the front, move the pad back or the desk forward.
- Keep drinks off the belt.
Which KTQ model for a desk?
For walking at a desk, we recommend the 3 Series. See the 3 Series heavy-duty walking pad: 1 to 10 km/h, remote included, 124 × 59 × 101 cm unfolded, folds flat to 11 cm.
It has a double-layer running deck for stability and reinforcement. When your foot lands, the flex and the double layer absorb more of the impact, so it's not harsh on your knees, and the deck helps make it quieter.
Using incline at your desk
The 3 Series has 8 Level Auto Incline, changed while you walk. Our walking pad with incline guide explains when it is worth using.
Putting it away
When the day is done, fold the handrail down and the 3 Series folds flat to 11 cm, so you can slide it under a desk or sofa. It has transport wheels too. Whether it fits under your sofa depends on your sofa height, so see will a treadmill fit under my sofa or bed? and our how to measure your room guide.
Frequently asked questions
What height should my desk be for an under desk walking pad?
Stand on the pad in your shoes with your elbows bent at a right angle, and set the desk at forearm height. Measure from the belt, not the floor.
Can I use a walking pad with a normal desk?
Not comfortably. A seated desk is too low for standing and walking. You need a desk that raises to standing height or a desk converter.
How much space do I need for an under desk walking pad?
Enough for the full unfolded pad plus a clear area to step on and off. The 3 Series is 124 × 59 cm on the floor, so measure the clear width between your desk legs and the length in front of the desk.
Is an under desk walking pad quiet enough for calls?
Noise depends on your floor, your speed and your walking style. The 3 Series is Under 45 dB, and its double-layer running deck helps make it quieter. Test it in your own space, and see our quiet treadmill for flats guide.
Can I try it before I commit?
Every KTQ order comes with a 60-day free home trial. See the refund policy.
