To make it easier for you, this post contains affiliate links to the products I used in this DIY Desk Treadmill tutorial. See my full disclosure here.
Walking at your desk can help you stay focused on tasks all while getting a little exercise. I’ve had a walking desk for about a year and a half and I absolutely love it.
There’s a problem though. Desk treadmills can be pretty expensive. Thankfully, my husband figured out a pretty genius solution. Instead of buying an expensive desk treadmill, he modified a regular and less expensive treadmill.
The great news is you can do it too!
With many traditional treadmills, the motherboard containing all the controls on the top platform can be removed. The vertical side bars contain the electrical cords that power the motor. If those bars are carefully cut off, you can place the controls on your desk and the rest of the machine fits nicely under your desk. Those two modifications can turn a regular treadmill into a less expensive desk treadmill!
Here’s how to do it
After ensuring the treadmill is unplugged, cut the upper poles off (while avoiding the electrical cords inside) leaving enough of the poles to ensure stability of the machine.
As seen in the picture below, the side poles were cut off leaving on about 14 inches from the ground to give stability to the treadmill.
Then separate the motherboard (computer part) from the upper platform leaving the electrical cords intact.
Now you’ve got a desk treadmill!
This is the treadmill I used and it works really well for this project. It’s easy to use, runs quietly and it folds out of the way when I’m not using it.
UPDATE: Since writing this post, I replaced the old one with this smaller and more quiet treadmill and I absolutely love it.
This project can also be done with used treadmills that you might find at yard sales or second-hand stores.
A word of warning: not all treadmills work for this project. You need to find one that looks like you can take out the motherboard and cut the poles all while keeping the electrical components intact. Doing a little investigating and finding the right treadmill for the project will pay off in the end.
Benefits of using a desk treadmill
I’ve used my DIY desk treadmill for almost a year and a half and I’ve noticed some pretty dramatic benefits. Having your own desk treadmill can help:
- increase your daily steps average without extra trips to the gym
- take pressure off your back
- improve neck and shoulder tightness
- you feel better knowing you’re doing something great for your health
- keep you warm in the wintertime
In case you’re curious, the desk I used in this project is this sit and stand desk (we made it for less than $200!) These two projects put together have made my work life not just happy, but healthy too!
I hope this tutorial was helpful and informative. If you have any questions, leave a comment here and I’d be glad to help.