The Best Pedal Exercisers in Canada
The average temperature in Canada in winter falls below zero degrees. Couple that with unpredictable lockdowns, closed gyms, and working from home, and you have a recipe for disaster. In a normal year, the average person spends 8 hours a day sitting; 2023 has definitely been the year of doing less.
But there is a simple, hassle-free way to increase your circulation, get your blood pumping, and exercise your muscles all from the comfort of home. You don’t even need to get up to get moving. Simply invest in your health and choose from our list of the best pedal exercisers in Canada.
Originally created to assist with muscle rehabilitation, the pedal exerciser is an affordable, stress-free way to incorporate more movement into your everyday life. Whether watching television, reading a book, or in a Zoom meeting, you just need to strap in and start peddling for immediate health benefits. Simply sitting may seem harmless enough, but a sedentary lifestyle has chronic long-term health effects.
While the risk of Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes increases by over 60% for people with a high level of sedentary behavior, moving for only two minutes of every hour of sitting can greatly reduce these shocking statistics. These mini peddlers are low in intensity whilst delivering enough power to make a significant impact on your well-being.
Best Desk Pedal Exercisers Comparison Chart:
| Name | Desk | Resistance | Arms | Size | Weight | Height | Console | Handle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cubii JR Elliptical Pedal Exerciser | Yes, Can Be Used Under Desk | 8 Levels Magnetic | No Arm Exercise, Only Legs | 58.8 x 44.6 x 25.4 | 12.5 Kgs | 10" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. | Yes |
| DeskCycle Under Desk Pedal Exerciser | Yes, Can Be Used Under Desk | 8 Levels Magnetic | No Arm Exercise, Only Legs | 58.17 x 29.21 x 28.19 | 11.2 Kgs | 9" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. Scan mode | No |
| LifePro Desk Pedal Exerciser | Not Ideal For Under Desk | 8 Levels Magnetic | Yes, Arm & Leg Exercises | 53 x 33.2 x 44.5 | 8 Kgs | 12" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. | Yes |
| Sunny Health and Fitness Pedal Exerciser | Not Ideal For Under Desk | 8 Levels Magnetic | Yes, Arm & Leg Exercises | 55.9 x 45.7 x 37.3 | 10.8 Kgs | 14" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. | Yes |
| Exerpeutic Motorized Mini Exercise Bike | Not Ideal For Under Desk | 10 Levels Magnetic | Yes, Arm & Leg Exercises | 56 x 46 x 36 | 8.5 Kgs | 16" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. Scan mode. | No |
| YOSUDA Magnetic Pedal Exerciser | Not Ideal For Under Desk | 8 Levels Magnetic | Yes, Arm & Leg Exercises | 30.48 x 30.48 x 20.32 | 11.2 Kgs | 14" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. | Yes |
| Vangona Magnetic Pedal Exerciser | Not Ideal For Under Desk | 8 Levels Magnetic | No Arm Exercise, Only Legs | 58.42 x 27.94 x 23.37 | 9.18 Kgs | 11.2" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. Scan mode. | No |
| Node Fitness Pedal Exerciser | Not Ideal For Under Desk | Adjustable Friction | Yes, Arm & Leg Exercises | 41.5 x 33.7 x 19.9 | 4.8 Kgs | 12" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. Scan mode. | Yes |
| Wakeman Fitness Mini Pedal Exercise | Not Ideal For Under Desk | Adjustable Friction | Yes, Arm & Leg Exercises | 41.5 x 33.7 x 19.9 | 3.8 Kgs | 14" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. | No |
| Vive Seated Foot Pedal Exerciser | Not Ideal For Under Desk | Adjustable Friction | Yes, Arm & Leg Exercises | 41.5 x 34.29 x 19.61 | 2.7 Kgs | 9" Fixed | LED. Calorie, rpm, time, distance. | No |
The Top Ten Pedal Exercisers in Canada:
Cubii JR Elliptical Pedal Exerciser
Although the Cubii Junior is the more basic successor to the Cubii Pro, it has a much higher rating on Amazon, (not because it is better but because it is more affordable and has been on the market for a bit longer). Designed for both functionality and form, the Cubii JR is one of the most innovative pedal exercisers available in Canada.
Highly regarded as the Cadillac of under desk cycle machines, this advanced product consists of an ergonomic design, fluid range of motion, and online community support. It is also the only NEAT-certified desk elliptical machine on the market. The NEAT certification scientifically recorded that the Cubii Jr burned 84.5% more calories than sitting.
Unlike many pedal exercisers on the market, the Cubii JR has an elliptical motion. Reducing the impact to your joints and allowing an elongated oval movement. This motion system results in a whisper-quiet workout, so you won’t be distracted while working, watching TV, or enjoying a book. Effortlessly control the intensity of your workout with 8 resistance levels.
Set goals and track real time progress with the simple built-in digital display, which includes calories burned, strides pedaled, and distance traveled. Get motivated by your peers and join the online Cubii community or follow along with their online classes.
Many pedal exercisers make the mistake of being too light but weighing 12kgs gives the Cubii the extra mass you need to have a stable pedal. While the large slip-resistant footplates are perfect for most foot sizes, these are not suitable for exercising your arms.
DeskCycle Under Desk Pedal Exerciser
This affordable high-performance machine is one of the most popular pedal exercisers on the market, with an average rating of 4.6 stars across over 5000 reviews on Amazon. This comes as no surprise as it was designed by DeskCycle, a company dedicated to providing pedal exercisers.
The advanced magnetic resistance system offers a smoother, more enjoyable pedal. Control the difficulty of your workout by adjusting the magnetic tension with the simple twist of the dial. The eight different levels ensure that your workout remains challenging. The magnetic resistance creates very little friction across the machine delivering a very quiet workout.
Maximize your workout by tracking key statistics displayed on the simple digital console. The LCD screen displays calories, row distance, and workout length. Unlike many pedal exercisers available in Canada the height on this machine is actually adjustable and can easily be dropped from 10 inches to 9inches.
Secure your DeskCycle in place with a handy tether. This mini bike has the lowest profile, making it the perfect choice for under desk use. The low height allows you to easily pedal without hitting your knees against the desk.
LifePro Desk Pedal Exerciser
LifePro has created a modern, under desk pedal exerciser that looks as good as it performs. Whether you are considering a low impact workout or you need to rehabilitate your muscles, this machine ticks a lot of boxes.
The matt black design with striking orange trim creates a fresh aesthetic for a contemporary machine. At only 21.9 x 14.3 inches, this compact option can effortlessly fit into your everyday lifestyle while providing the movement you need.
Easily increase the magnetic resistance across 8 intensity levels. Maximize the machine by using the higher settings or enjoy low impact for recovery purposes. Adapt to your seated environment and desk needs with variable height settings. The easy to read LCD digital display includes the time, count, calories burned, and total count.
Not only can this versatile machine be utilized to exercise your arms and your legs, but the range of movement goes both forwards and backward, allowing you to reach additional muscles. The minimal design and net weight of only 18.7 lbs. make it very portable and easily stored when not in use.
Sunny Health and Fitness Under Desk Pedal Exerciser
1 used from C $179.00
These are well know and trusted for their reliable at-home fitness solutions, and this pedal exerciser is no different. Unlike elliptical systems, this magnetic mini exercise bike is exactly that of a mini bike and replicates the motion of a true cycle movement.
This is an Amazon’s Choice product, a testament to the value and quality of this impressive pedal exerciser. The magnetic system delivers a silent, even pedal perfect for home or office use. Magnetic resistance creates little to no friction meaning that the Sunny Health Pedal Exerciser requires less maintenance and will last longer than other pedal exercisers in Canada. Build up a sweat with and amplify the intensity of your pedal across 8 levels of tension.
However, the traditional motion does mean that you need a taller desk to accommodate the clearance of the cycle. The pedals are large and textured, so they work with both hands and feet of all sizes while maintaining a grip so that even during the most vigorous of workouts, there are no mishaps.
At only 21 pounds, this lightweight machine is simple to assemble and maneuver. However, this is the tallest machine on our list and may not fit under all desks. This reliable machine can best be used from the comfort of your couch or pedaling on a taller bar stool.
Exerpeutic Motorized Mini Exercise Bike
1 used from C $241.04
This Exerpeutic 2000M Fitness Electric Mini Exercise Bike delivers low impact workout designed to aid its user’s movement as opposed to challenging them. The futuristic design eludes to the motorized integration, which gently pushes peddlers to maintain rhythm.
The motorized system means that you can strap in your feet, and the pedal exerciser will gently influence your range of motion. This is a fantastic advantage to rehabilitate muscles and aids in the creation of muscle memory. If you decide you no longer need the motorized assist, you can turn it off for a purely manual workout.
While most machines have a very limited range of resistance, this innovative home option has 10 different tension/speed options allowing you to tailor your workout to your needs.
Easily adjust your workout with the handheld remote. Monitor your performance with key stats about your pedal without having to bend down to the display. This machine delivers on health therapy with review quotes including “Great for Parkinson’s’, ‘I have noticed a huge improvement in the strength in my legs’, and ‘Great product for stroke therapy.’
YOSUDA Magnetic Pedal Exerciser
The Yosuda desk bike looks and feels premium while delivering an excellent workout. Even though the design itself is stable and sturdy, this little powerhouse is simply assembled in only 4 steps.
While a pedal motion is pretty standard for, under desk bikes, the magnetic resistance sets this machine apart. This results in a low impact workout. Which should not be mistaken for low resistance. The magnetic system creates almost no friction, which minimizes the negative impact on joints.
While the resistance can easily be dialed up from 1 – 8 or from a light warm-up all the way up to muscle stabilization. The ergonomic design of this machine includes a built-in LCD monitor, which can easily display the time, distance, or calories.
At 43 cm wide and weighing 11kgs, this advanced pedal exerciser will provide a stable, enjoyable ride. The molded handlebars are perfect for an arm or leg workout, and the bi-directional action allows keeps your workout challenging.
Vangona Magnetic Pedal Exerciser
A pedal exerciser designed with the end-user in mind! The Vangona machine delivers a streamlined system, which is both stable and challenging. This offering is quiet, ergonomic, and user friendly with enough tension to create a challenging pedal.
Unlike other pedal exercisers, this machine utilizes an innovative magnetic resistance system often reserved for full-size exercise bikes. Customized with eight levels of adjustable magnetic tension, this machine can easily adapt to the different needs of any user.
This contemporary product from Vangona has an LED monitor that allows the user to keep track of the time, count, total count, and calorie data to keep you motivated and on pace. A fantastic advantage of any magnetic rower is the lack of noise.
The high-quality resistance reduces the overall machine friction, which makes the workout super quiet and more smooth. The original design of this machine allows the user to view the flywheel while pedaling.
Created for an enjoyable pedal, the non-slip pedals have adjustable straps and oversized rubber feet to cater to most shoe sizes. The increased weight (8kgs) and machine width *50cm make it a very stable ride.
Node Fitness Pedal Exerciser
This convenient machine replicates the experience of cycling. Priced at only $82, this machine is definitely one of the most affordable, quality pedal exercisers available in Canada. At 4.8kg, this machine has the additional weight that gives it a comfortable sensation of stability, and the rear stabilizers and floor protectors add to this grounded feeling.
It is fully adjustable, and while this will not give you the same challenge as cycling, the tension is enough to increase your heart rate and work up a mild sweat. The weighted flywheel gives you an extremely smooth pull.
The modest LCD display shows the basic stats you need to track your performance like calories burned, reps, and time exercised. The scan mode will automatically cycle through each of these functions, so you can quickly glance at the stats without interrupting your flow.
This mini-bike is designed to increase the tone and improve muscle strength in both your legs and arms. Choose your surface and strap-in for a ride that stretches your range of motion and increases your blood circulation. Make use of the built-in handle for simple transport or storage.
Wakeman Fitness Mini Pedal Exercise
This offering from Wakeman is a cost-effective dual-action pedal exerciser for your arms and legs. It’s a great machine that delivers an efficient workout without breaking the bank with unnecessary frills. Their website boasts, “Exercising at home is easier than it’s ever been with the Wakeman Exercise Products,” and that’s certainly true of this model.
The light workout from this model boosts heart and lung capacity while toning your muscles, making an excellent pedal exerciser for the elderly or young. Challenge yourself and increase the tension with the simple turn of a dial.
At 10 inches high, this portable pedal exerciser can easily be used under a desk at the office or while enjoying the latest Netflix. The machine has a standard display that includes exercise time, calories burned, and stroke count.
Perfect for physical therapy, rehabilitation, or a basic daily workout, this compact machine is excellent value for money. Stabilize your pedal by attaching the adjustable strap to a chair or couch leg for a non-slip pedal. This machine can be placed on the floor for an effective leg workout or a table to exercise your upper body.
Vive Seated Foot Pedal Exerciser
The Vive under-desk bike is the most uncomplicated pedal exerciser on this list. The lightweight A-frame is very easy to set-up, and the foldable design makes it a breeze to move. While this pedal exerciser is smaller than other machines and weighs only 2kgs, the adjustable tension system ensures that your intensity can be tailored to your needs.
Create an impactful workout by turning the tension dial at the front of the machine. The large LCD displays time, distance, count, total count, RPM, and calories burned. Vive has taken a holistic approach to your health and created an app to assist in your overall wellbeing. Track your health data, follow online workouts, or contact certified physical therapists through Vive Fit.
This machine is definitely space-savvy and one of the smallest 2023 pedal exercisers in Canada, measuring only 9 inches high. Allowing it to fit perfectly under your desk.
The adjustable foot straps and non-slip pedals mean a more secure pedal every time. Easily prop this dual-machine on a table and enjoy a light arm workout. Due to the design of the frame, the legs simply fold under for compact storage and easy portability.
Pedal Exerciser Buyers’ Guide in Canada
When choosing the best pedal exerciser for you, there are a number of factors to consider. The best starting point is always your end goal. Are you looking for a simple foldable mini-bike to easily exercise wherever you are or do you want a more stable machine to rehabilitate your muscles? Every under-desk bike is as different as your needs. Please read through our buyer’s guide to fully understand how to make the most informed decision.
Resistance
Pedal Exercisers are designed with three main types of resistance to cater to your requirements. These are often adjustable and will influence the impact on your joints, the sound the machine makes, and the upkeep of your pedal exerciser.
Friction
Friction is the traditional pedal resistance. It is the simplest system, and machines with friction resistance are often more affordable than other types of resistance. Due to the nature of this system, they do require some maintenance due to wear and tear. This friction mechanism does is not as quiet as a magnetic option.
Magnetic
A magnetic resistance system creates the tension to increase the intensity of your pedal. This innovative resistance is whisper quiet and results in a very smooth motion. Due to the lack of friction, the magnetic resistance creates these machines require little maintenance and have better longevity than other types of resistance.
Motorized
Motorized resistance refers more to assistance than friction. The motor aids the pedals circular movement, supporting muscle rehabilitation with minimal effort from the user. The motor may make a small sound.
Motion
A traditional bike motion is a pedal movement. This is great for increasing circulation and muscle movement. Modern under desk bikes have an advanced elliptical motion. This extends the range of movement in a more oval shape. It is fantastic for stretching muscles and reducing any impact to joints. An elliptical motion has a lower maximum height and works best with lower desks.
Height
Pedal exercisers range in height from a few inches up to 20 inches. However, it is the maximum height of your knee in the actual pedal on the mini-bike that needs to be considered. If you are going to be using your machine under a desk, it is imperative that there is amply space between your knee and the surface for an enjoyable ride. All pedal exercisers have listed heights, so this can easily be assessed.
Stability
Not all pedal exercisers are equal in this category. While some have been created to quickly set-up and begin peddling, others have been designed with movement in mind. A pedal motion can create an unstable jerky wave if the machine isn’t heavy enough. To guarantee a stable pedal, assess the weight of the machine and the base width for an effective valuation.
The Final Verdict
A pedal exerciser is a fantastic low-cost solution to simply move more each day. Increase your circulation, aid muscle recovery, and improve your overall health with this low-intensity workout. While our list consists of ten of the best pedal exercisers in Canada, the perfect mini bike for you will always be based on your needs. Will you be using this under a desk or while sitting on a couch? Do you need more intensity, or will a simple pedal suit your needs?
Our top choice for under desk bikes in Canada has to be the Cubii Jr. This modern offering from Cubii delivers a quiet, smooth pedal that gently works your muscles while minimizing the impact on your joints. The elliptical motion stretches your muscles and has a low desk clearance height. Making this perfect for at home or at work. The NEAT certification is proof of the quality performance that this machine delivers. At 12kgs, this machine is still light enough to be easily moved while providing stability required for an enjoyable pedal. Unlike many other machines, this is not purely a pedal exerciser for seniors; it is suitable for all ages and would be beneficial as an addition to anyone’s daily routine.
Hi there, I'm Sayed Hamed Hosseiny, the founder and one of the authors at yourexercisebike.com (YEB). I am a former indoor cycling instructor and personal trainer with nearly 20 years of experience. With a passion for indoor cycling, I have spent years designing cycling parts, repairing, and importing exercise bikes. All the articles, tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on YourExerciseBike.com (YEB) reflect my personal opinion and expertise in the field. I'm excited to share my knowledge with fellow exercise bike enthusiasts and help people find reliable indoor cycling information and the best exercise bike for their needs. If you have any questions or suggestion, you can contact me at sayed@yourexercisebike.com.
