Treadmill desks can increase daily steps but may disrupt focus and proper posture. (Credit: Free (Handout))
Convenience has long been a factor in choosing methods for reaching fitness goals. Workstation exercise equipment allows employees who perform desk-related duties to pursue those desired fitness results. However, these tools are typically not designed to replace regular exercise and may cause more harm than good.
There are obvious benefits to exercising, but many researchers and ergonomists are not likely to recommend workstation-style exercise equipment. Beyond potential decreases in individual cognitive effectiveness, desk exercisers can place people in unusual positions that may result in or aggravate pain. They also cause distractions that may perturb office neighbors or, worse, result in slip-and-fall injuries. Employers should focus instead on encouraging activities that involve movement focused away from the keyboard.
Want to continue reading?
Become a Free PropertyCasualty360 Digital Reader
Your access to unlimited PropertyCasualty360 content isn’t changing.
Once you are an ALM digital member, you’ll receive:
- Breaking insurance news and analysis, on-site and via our newsletters and custom alerts
- Weekly Insurance Speak podcast featuring exclusive interviews with industry leaders
- Educational webcasts, white papers, and ebooks from industry thought leaders
- Critical converage of the employee benefits and financial advisory markets on our other ALM sites, BenefitsPRO and ThinkAdvisor
Already have an account? Sign In Now
© 2025 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.
