Under Desk Elliptical Trainer vs Walking: A Quick Comparison

With growing health awareness, more people are seeking convenient ways to stay active—especially during long hours at a desk. Among the many options available, walking and under desk elliptical machines like the Tousains mini elliptical stand out as popular choices. But how do they actually compare?

At first glance, both forms of exercise involve lower-body movement and support cardiovascular health. However, differences in muscle engagement, calorie burn, portability, and joint impact can influence which one works best for your lifestyle and goals. Let’s break it down!

Convenience and Accessibility

Walking: Walking is simple and requires no equipment. It can be done almost anywhere—around the block, in a park, or even at a shopping mall. However, it does require dedicated time and appropriate weather conditions.

Under Desk Elliptical Trainer: One of the biggest advantages of an under desk elliptical is its convenience. It can be used while working, reading, or even watching TV—without needing to leave your home or office. If you sit a lot, this piece of equipment can help you stay active during the day. 

Our take: If you have limited time and care more about multitasking,  under desk ellipticals are more accessible. If you prefer fresh air and movement breaks, walking wins.

Calories Burned

Walking: A 30-minute walk can burn around 100 to 200 calories, depending on your pace, weight, and terrain. Walking uphill or carrying weight can increase calorie burn.

Under Desk Elliptical: Under desk elliptical workouts are typically lower in intensity, but longer sessions during work can add up. On average, calories burned on an under desk elliptical is about 100–150 calories per hour. Tousains mini elliptical machine is equipped with 7 resistance levels, allowing you to add intensity and increase the calorie burn.

Our take: Walking typically burns more calories per minute, but under desk ellipticals allow for longer, passive sessions that support weight loss over time.

Impact on Joints

Walking: Walking is considered low-impact. While compared with the under desk elliptical, it still places some stress on the knees, hips, and ankles—especially on hard surfaces or for people with joint issues.

Under Desk Elliptical: These machines offer a smooth, gliding motion that significantly reduces impact on joints. They're often recommended for seniors or those recovering from injuries.

Our take: Under desk ellipticals are generally gentler on joints.

Muscle Engagement

Walking: Walking activates leg muscles (quads, hamstrings, calves), glutes, and core to some extent. Walking at an incline or with weights can further engage muscles.

Under Desk Elliptical: What muscles do under desk ellipticals work? It engages similar lower-body muscles but with less range of motion. However, they can help improve circulation and endurance for people who live a sedentary life.

Our take: Walking provides more natural and dynamic muscle engagement. Ellipticals are suitable for light and continuous activation.

Portability and Lifestyle Fit

Walking: Walking requires no gear, but it does need time, a safe route, and appropriate weather or indoor space.

Under Desk Elliptical: Portable and compact, many models weigh under 20 lbs and fit under desks. They’re easy to store and travel-friendly for remote work or hotel stays. Tousains mini elliptical machine, with the app and remote control, makes your workout even more convenient.

Our take: Under desk ellipticals fit better into tight schedules and indoor lifestyles.

Bone Health

Walking: As a weight-bearing exercise, walking is beneficial for maintaining and building bone density. Regular brisk walks can help prevent bone loss over time. A study in the National Library of Medicine shows that healthy postmenopausal women who walk approximately 1 mile each day have higher whole-body bone density than women who walk shorter distances.

Under Desk Elliptical: Is elliptical better than walking in terms of bone intensity? The fact is ellipticals provide cardiovascular benefits but are not weight-bearing in the same way walking is. Their benefits for bone health are limited.

Our take: Walking is more effective for improving bone density.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose an Under Desk Elliptical if: You spend long hours sitting and want to stay active while working or watching TV. It’s a great choice for low-impact movement and maintaining circulation.

Choose Walking if: You enjoy being outdoors, want to support bone health or need a slightly higher calorie burn with natural movement.

Or Combine Both: Many people benefit from combining both options—walking for fresh air and stronger bone impact, and using an under desk elliptical for consistent movement during the day.

Conclusion: Under Desk Elliptical Trainer VS Walking

Both under desk elliptical trainers and walking offer valuable benefits, especially for those looking to stay active in their daily lives. While walking provides better bone strength and more dynamic muscle engagement, under desk ellipticals shine in convenience and joint-friendliness. The best option is the one that fits your routine and keeps you moving consistently. Tousains mini elliptical machine with a portable design, versatile function, and a 2-year warranty, ensures an effective and confident workout. Explore the Tousains website to see if it fits your fitness routine.