If you have a hard time fitting workouts into your busy work schedule, the FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk may be the product for you. It comes with a flat, washable desk space that will securely hold books, laptops, Kindles, iPads, keyboards, and more. Exercising while getting work done? It sounds like a great idea, but there are plenty of potential problems that could crop up with this kind of product. This review will help you separate the facts from the hype so you can make a smart purchasing decision.

Noise

Sound level is a key factor for an exercise machine that is designed to let you workout while your focus is elsewhere. It would be hard to truly focus on the task at hand if there was a deafening noise coming from your machine. The FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk scores well on the noise test. It consistently delivers a quiet workout experience.

Resistance

Users can adjust the level of resistance on their FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk by turning a knob. You can make the workout experience as challenging or as easy as you see fit, however, it would seem that this product is designed more for light workouts. After all, if you want to get work done while exercising, you probably can go all out with an intense workout.

Comfort

In the past, earlier FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk models have disappointed users in comfort. They were known to have narrow seats that we not well padded. Clearly the people at FitDesk recognized the problem and set out to fix it. This model has a sufficiently wide seat with ample padding. Some users may still want to purchase a gel seat cover for added comfort during workout.

Programs and Features

Computer Console

The FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk is not intended to be a traditional exercise bike. It was not designed to compete with those machines in terms of technological features. The console on this machine is pretty basic, meaning a user will not benefit from heart rate monitors or other advanced tracking. The console does support tracking of basic information like calories burned, distance traveled, and time elapsed.

Desk Surface

This is the feature that defines the FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk. It comes with a removable, machine washable 18 x 19 inch padded fabric desk surface. There is a device strap to hold laptops, iPads, and other devices in place during workout. It also includes two storage pockets on the sides.

Assembly and Storage

This model has folding and locking capability that should make it easy to collapse and store. When it is not in use, the transport wheels will help you quickly roll it into an out of the way location.

Dimensions

The FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk measures 27 x 16 x 45 inches when fully expanded and 16 x 28 inches when completely folded. It is a mere 33 pounds so it is for one person to roll and move it.

User Reviews

The general tenor of customer reviews on the FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk has been very positive. It has an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from more than 220 reviews on Amazon.

Reviewers have paid special attention to the fact the FitDesk offers a high level of customer service. In fact, Steve, the FitDesk CEO, answers all calls and responds to all emails from customers. This personal touch has sat well with a number of the reviewers.

Users also seem to appreciate that this version of FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk has improved based on previous recommendations from users. It now has a better design and more comfortable setup that suits users. Some reviewers also appreciate how quiet the machine is now.

Any Complaints?

This machine has received very few negative complaints. Only eleven of the more than 220 reviewers have scored it below a out of 5 stars. These negative reviews tend to focus on the quality of the materials, the lack of sturdiness in some situations, and the inconsistent fluidity of the pedals. Many other reviewers have noted that sturdiness and fluidity were strengths of this machine, rather than weaknesses, so it is hardly a universal problem. If there is a consistent complaint, it is that this machine may not be ideal for people over 6 feet tall.

Final Recommendation

The overwhelmingly positive reviews tell the whole story. The FitDesk Semi-Recumbent Pedal Desk seems more than capable of delivering what it promises: a comfortable, effective workout experience that also allows you to get some work done. This is a big need for many people. If you are in looking to exercise while you work, and you are six feet or under, this product comes highly recommended.

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