The 5 Best Pedal Exercisers To Move More

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Pedal exercisers are a good piece of fitness equipment to get in some extra movement. Find out what the best models are for your personal situation.

Best pedal exercisers top picks

  1. GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser
  2. LifePro Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
  3. DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
  4. Exerpeutic 2000M Motorized Legs and Arms Pedal Exerciser
  5. Carex Foldable Under Desk Exercise Bike

Most pedal exercisers are powered by your muscles but the Exerpeutic 2000M Motorized Pedal Exerciser is partly powered by electricity. This can be useful for elderly people and revalidation.

For other people and situations, manual models are typically recommended.

Additionally, keep in mind that different individuals have different training goals, budgets, personal preferences, storage space, etc.

Because of this, it is not possible to create one perfect ranking for every individual. Sometimes picks lower on the list will be better for your personal situation.

How we selected our top picks

Our fitness experts spent a lot of time looking at and comparing all the different important factors of the best pedal exercisers. Some of the things that were taken into consideration when making our selection include:

  • Resistance adjustability, pedal size, foldability, etc.
  • User reviews
  • Anecdotal reviews from fitness experts
  • Price
  • Brand trustability

If a pick seems interesting click it to see the online prices.

5 Best pedal exercisers reviewed in detail

The list of the top picks can help you make a quick decision. You can also look at each of the best pedal exercisers reviewed in detail to confirm you are making the right choice.

1. GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser

Our top pick for the best pedal exerciser is the GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser. This model is not the most perfect one but it offers the benefits of pedal exercisers at a very reasonable price.

It also has some relatively unique features that help it stand out from the other pedal exercisers. The first and main one is that the GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser has six different height settings.

One of the most important requirements of pedal exercisers is that they are the right size so you can conveniently use them. By being able to adjust one of these dimensions it becomes easier to achieve the right size.

Another valuable detail is that you can fold this model. This makes it easier to store and transport.

Pros

  • Adjustable resistance with knob
  • Total size of 16.9″ L x 15.4″ W x 13.4″ H (42.9 cm L x 39.1 cm W x 34 cm H)
  • 6 different height settings
  • Foldable for compact storage and transport
  • Pedal shape suited for arms
  • Weight of 6.95 pounds (3.2 kg)
  • Monitor with time, distance, count, and estimation of calories burned
  • Comes with anti-slip mat and fixing strap
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Pedal exerciser can move around on certain surfaces if you don’t use the fixing strap

Two other nice additions are the anti-slip mat and fixing strap that come with the package. One downside of the GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser is that you may need these things to stop the model from moving.

Besides these details, the GOREDI model is somewhat standard but solid. Like many pedal exercisers, you have a turning knob to gradually adjust the resistance to the right level.

Next, this option has a round pedal design. This can be good if you plan to use the device for arm workouts too. On the other hand, this type of design is somewhat slipperier for your feet than a longer design.

All in all, the GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser is a solid option at a reasonable price. Its different height settings, the anti-slip mat, and fixing strap are details that positively stand out.

2. LifePro Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser

The LifePro Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is a close second. When it comes to quality, this is one of the best pedal exercisers.

However, the price is a decent amount higher than more basic models that still offer a good workout. You can see this option from LifePro as a more premium model for people who don’t mind investing a bit more into a quality product.

One of the first things that stand out in this pedal exerciser is that it comes with different handles. Most models come with round handles that can be used by both hands and feet.

The LifePro model also comes with these handles but also adds longer pedals which lower the risk of your feet slipping off. One improvement that would be welcome is making the handles easier to change.

Pros

  • 8 resistance levels
  • Total size of 20.9″ L x 17.5″ W x 13.2″ H (53.1 cm L x 44.5 cm W x 33.5 cm H)
  • Two types of pedals for both hands and feet
  • Has a carry handle
  • Weight of 18.1 pounds (8.2 kg)
  • Monitor with speed, distance, and estimation of calories burned
  • Comes with resistance bands and fixing strap
  • Can be connected to apps through Bluetooth
  • Available in two colors
  • Lifetime warranty
  • A lot of happy customers
  • Very positive ratio of customer reviews

Cons

  • Changing the handles can require some effort
  • A desk has to be at least 36 inches (91.5 cm) high to use this pedal exerciser under it

Two relatively unique features that are less relevant to your workouts but a nice addition anyway are the included resistance bands and Bluetooth connectivity.

These resistance bands attach to the mini exercise bike and help you do some upper body movements while getting the benefits of pedal exercisers. The Bluetooth connectivity can help you track your workouts through apps.

You also get the somewhat common but valuable 8 levels of resistance and built-in carry handle. There is also the option to choose between different colors.

Another upside of this pedal exerciser is that you get a lifetime warranty. That being said, from the high number of customers and how positive they are it looks like you won’t need to make use of this warranty.

3. DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser

The DeskCycle is a popular brand of pedal exerciser with many happy customers but the first thing to note is that it is relatively pricey compared to other options.

Additionally, this model has flatter and longer pedals. On the one hand, this is great because you reduce the risk of your feet slipping off the pedals. On the other hand, these pedals make the device less convenient as an arm pedal exerciser.

The last potential downside is that there are a good number of customers who find the tracking monitor suboptimal. This is somewhat common in pedal exercisers but inconvenient anyway.

That being said, if you don’t mind these downsides too much/they don’t apply to you, the DeskCycle can be a good choice. As the name implies, the low design allows you to use it under desks as low as 27 inches (68.6 cm).

Pros

  • 8 resistance levels
  • Total size of 24″ L x 20″ W x 10″ H (61 cm L x 50.8 cm W x 25.4 cm H)
  • Can be used under desks as low as 27 inches (68.6 cm)
  • Pedals are less slippery than round designs
  • Weight of 23 pounds (10.4 kg)
  • Monitor with speed, time, distance, and estimation of calories burned
  • A lot of happy customers
  • Very positive ratio of customer reviews

Cons

  • Pricier than most pedal exercisers
  • Not ideal as an arm pedal exerciser
  • Tracking monitor is not great

Similar to many other mini exercise bikes, this model comes with 8 resistance levels. This allows you to switch up your workouts to keep things challenging and to add some variety.

When it comes to specific dimensions, the DeskCycle has a size that is about average. Its weight is somewhat above average at 23 pounds (10.4 kg). This helps it stay in place better but is somewhat more challenging to move.

In short, the DeskCycle can be a good option for individuals with a budget who want to use their device while sitting at a (relatively low) desk. The many customers tend to be really happy with their investment.

4. Exerpeutic 2000M Motorized Legs and Arms Pedal Exerciser

As the name implies, the Exerpeutic 2000M Motorized Pedal Exerciser is a device that helps you move your arms and legs more with the help of a motorized design. This can be helpful for elderly people and revalidation situations.

The first thing to note is that most people will want to stick to manual pedal exercisers. This motorized model will likely be(come) too easy. As you can expect, motorized devices will also be pricier than the manual ones.

Lastly, one customer notes this model from Exerpeutic is not quite strong enough to move legs all by itself. The users will have to do at least some work to keep the pedals spinning.

That being said, if this type of pedal exerciser is suited for your situation, the Exerpeutic model is one of the best choices out there.

Pros

  • Hand-held speed controller with long cord
  • Total size of 21″ L x 18.2″ W x 14.5″ H (53.3 cm L x 46.2 cm W x 36.8 cm H)
  • Pedal shape suited for arms
  • Has a carry handle
  • Package weight of 19.2 pounds (8.7 kg)
  • Comes with anti-slip mat
  • A lot of happy customers
  • Very positive ratio of customer reviews
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Many people don’t need a motorized pedal exerciser
  • Pricier than most manual pedal exercisers
  • Not strong enough to move legs all by itself

First of all, the controller to adjust the speed is attached to a 70.8-inch (180 cm) cord. Especially for elderly individuals and people with limited mobility, it can be a big benefit if you don’t have to bend forward for intensity adjustments.

Next, the carry handle makes it easier to move the device. No matter who will do this, more convenient transport options are generally nice to have.

The Exerpeutic 2000M Motorized Pedal Exerciser has relatively round pedals. This makes it convenient to use with your arms too. An anti-slip mat is not always essential but this comes with the device anyway.

In short, if a motorized mini exercise bike is the right choice for you, this model from Exerpeutic is likely the right choice. The many positive customer reviews imply that the nice features are not just promises.

5. Carex Foldable Under Desk Exercise Bike

One of the first things that stand out in the Carex Foldable Under Desk Exercise Bike is its budget-friendly price. Something to note is that this does come with some potential downsides.

First of all, this pedal exerciser uses friction as resistance. Due to this the material also becomes hot after some usage time. This is not the end of the world but something to keep in mind.

Additionally, due to the light weight of 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg), the pedal exerciser can move around while using it. To avoid this you may need to invest in separate straps.

That being said, this light weight can also be an advantage. It makes the pedal exerciser a lot more portable. Especially in combination with the foldable design.

Pros

  • Adjustable resistance with knob
  • Total size of 18.5″ L x 14.5″ W x 9.5″ H (47 cm L x 36.8 cm W x 24.1 cm H)
  • Foldable for compact storage and transport
  • Pedal shape suited for arms
  • Weight of 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg)
  • Monitor with time, rotation count, and estimation of calories burned
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Pedal exerciser can move around on certain surfaces
  • The material gets hot after use

Besides these details, the Carex Foldable Under Desk Exercise Bike is somewhat standard. Its size is about what you can expect from most pedal exercisers.

The resistance adjustment knob and arm-friendly pedals are somewhat common too.

Mini exercise bikes are not known for their quality tracking monitors but (so far) the Carex does not have many complaints about this.

Individuals who want to track time, rotation count, and estimation of calories burned may be happy to hear this.

The Carex Foldable Under Desk Exercise Bike can be a good budget-friendly option. Especially if you want to get a first impression before committing to a pricier model or for a temporary situation, this can be helpful.

How to choose a pedal exerciser

You may still be unsure about what pedal exerciser would be the best for you personally.

To help you choose you can look at some of the most important details of devices like this and think about what you want/need in these areas. After that, you can check how the top picks perform in these areas.

Manual vs powered

The first decision you have to make when choosing a pedal exerciser is whether you want a manual or electric-powered model.

Most people want to go for a manual pedal exerciser but there are a few people who can consider an electric power model.

These are mostly elderly people and individuals who are recovering from injuries. The extra help from the pedal exerciser can be useful to get and keep things moving if this is hard to do entirely by yourself.

Resistance levels

One of the main points of pedal exercisers is making the cycling movement harder. This is one of the main principles of working out.

By challenging your body in the right amounts you start a variety of processes that make it stronger in the long term.

You typically also get the benefits of pedal exercisers to a larger extent at heavier resistances as long as you don’t overdo it.

Most pedal exercisers have one continuous resistance adjustment knob. However, there are also models with separate resistance levels, sometimes a lot, sometimes only a few.

Additionally, the same resistance level can vary in difficulty in different models.

In short, more resistance options are typically good. You also want to get somewhat of an idea of how hard the specific model is by looking at customer feedback.

This way you can choose the best pedal exerciser for your personal fitness level.

Size

The size is definitely one of the most important features of the best pedal exercisers but it is somewhat lower on the list because it is very similar in most models.

That being said, you do want to look at the size at some point. If you know what size feels comfortable to your knees and the rest of your body this process is relatively straightforward.

If you are not sure yet you can check how tall or how small you are compared to most people. You can then choose a size that compares to the average in a similar way.

So for example, if you are a relatively tall individual, you can choose a pedal exerciser with a relatively high length, width, and height.

Besides usage, the size can also matter because of storage space. Some pedal exercisers are also foldable which makes them compacter to store and transport.

Pedal shape

Most of the best pedal exercisers have more round pedals so that you can use them with both your feet and your hands. If you will use the machine in both of these ways that can be helpful.

However, if you only plan to use your model with your feet, you may prefer one of the pedal exercisers with wider pedals. Your feet will typically slip away less on these and they likely feel more comfortable.

Weight and portability

Two things that mostly matter to transporting or simply carrying the pedal exerciser around the house are its weight and portability.

The weight is relatively straightforward. Heavier pedal exercisers will generally be harder to move.

Portability comes down to whether the pedal exerciser has a carry handle or not. And if not, whether it has any other areas that are easy to hold on to.

How important these two things are depends on how strong you are and how much you plan to move the pedal exerciser around.

Price

Investing in your health can be a great thing but sometimes you can get similar or more benefits for a lower price. That being said, when it comes to pedal exercisers, pricier models are often received better by customers.

There are still good budget options like the GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser but this trend still applies.

Something else to note is that pricier models may require a higher investment in the short term but cost you less because you don’t have to get a pedal exerciser replacement every once in a while.

Whether you want to invest a bit more into a more quality model or stick to a budget-friendly pedal exerciser depends on things like your budget, how long you want to use the pedal exerciser, how much you will use this equipment, etc.

Warranty

In many fitness products, warranties are often either very common or not offered at all. Pedal exercisers are somewhat of an exception to this.

Some models come with a guarantee but there are also many options that don’t include this.

While warranty is not the most important feature when it comes to pedal exercisers, it can help you decide between the last models you are considering.

Our top pick

If you are still not sure what pedal exerciser would be the best for you, you can choose our best overall pick. The GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser will be a great choice for most people.

FAQ

Are pedal exercisers worth it?

Pedal exercisers can help you get in some extra movement in the comfort of your home while doing other things like watching tv. If you like this idea and have the budget for them, pedal exercisers can definitely be worth it.

Are pedal exercisers good for seniors?

Pedal exercisers are good for seniors who want to get in some extra light exercise and all the benefits that come with that. Other forms of exercise can be good as well.

Do mini pedal exercisers work?

Mini pedal exercisers work in the sense that they can help you get in some extra movement while doing other things like watching tv. That being said, at the same time, they are not a miracle tool. Other forms of exercise can offer more benefits in a shorter amount of time.

Which mini exercise bike is best?

Our top pick for the best mini exercise bike is the GOREDI Foldable Pedal Exerciser. Keep in mind that picks lower on the list are sometimes better for your personal situation.

Are pedal exercisers good for weight loss?

Pedal exercisers can help you burn extra calories which in turn makes them good for weight loss. That being said, what you eat and other lifestyle habits are still very important. Additionally, other forms of exercise can be more effective than pedal exercisers for weight loss.

What muscles does a pedal exerciser work?

Using a pedal exerciser mainly works your glute (butt), quadricep (front thigh), and calf muscles.

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Author:

Matt Claes founded Weight Loss Made Practical to help people get in shape and stay there after losing 37 pounds and learning the best of the best about weight loss, health, and longevity for over 4 years. Over these years he has become an expert in nutrition, exercise, and other physical health aspects.