I took a personal interest on finding the best exercise foot peddler for elderly people when my dad needed one. My old man often says, “You know you’re old when a new trend doesn’t shake you. You think, ‘Been there and done that.’ The joke is you can’t quite remember when you did it.”
Now, as he uses a great exercise peddler for elderly, I don’t think he looks at it only as a passing trend. In fact, I think he enjoys this equipment because he can work out while seated. This means he does not have to put a pause on what he is doing.
So back at his joke, I hope he will not only remember exercising on this but also love doing every minute of it.
So how did we find the right pedal exerciser for him? To ensure he got the best, we did some research and talked to a few friends of his to get their opinion on different models. In this review, we’ll look at the unit my dad enjoys using everyday, the DeskCycle pedal exerciser, and 9 more options we’ve shortlisted. All these models work equally well, each with unique offerings that you may find interesting.
The best exercise peddler for seniors at a glance:
Top Mini Exercise Bike or Peddler For Elderly At A Glance:
1. DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser
2. Cubii Pro Under Desk Exercise Peddler
3. Exerpeutic Motorized Mini Exercise Bike
5. Stamina Elite Total Body Foot Pedal Exerciser
6. Vive Pedal Exerciser for Seniors
9. MagneTrainer-ER Pedal Exerciser
10. Confidence Fitness Motorized Electric Mini
What is a pedal exerciser? Also called an exercise peddler, it is a fitness equipment designed to help seniors exercise safely. Most units are small and portable, allowing you to use this type of equipment indoors or outdoors.
A good exercise peddler will help you work your hip flexors, quads, and quadriceps. So, what are the best pedal exerciser for elderly people?
Best Exercise Peddler for Elderly Reviewed (2025)
1. DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser for Elderly
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The DeskCycle Exerciser is a serious piece of fitness equipment that allows you to get rid of extra pounds while working. This leg exerciser for elderly is one of the smallest, yet most powerful mini bikes on the market.
You can operate it under a low desk (as low as 27 inches) comfortably. This under-desk exerciser allows for quiet operation, ensuring that you work without disturbance and without interrupting your coworkers.
The DeskCycle Peddler offers more resistance levels than most leg exercisers for elderly. It comes with 8 resistance levels that you can adjust using the dial.
Another feature we love is its easy-to-read digital display. For convenience, you can place this display monitor on your desk. It allows you to keep track of calories, speed, and time. And the cherry on top? It can track your progress for up to 16 hours a day!
It’s worth mentioning that users of the DeskCycle foot peddler get instant access to an online calculator for calories burned. You can enter your daily workout activities and check your progress.
This mini bike comes with adjustable Velcro straps to ensure that your feet stay in place, and its wide base prevents rocking. This exercise peddler comes with a strap that you can use to tether the mini bike to your desk.
You can also use your DeskCycle while watching TV or reading a book. This stationary pedal exerciser for the elderly is worth every penny you will spend on it.
What We Liked
- This floor peddler is ideal for short desks
- This leg exerciser for seniors burns more calories than a standing desk
- Uses magnetic resistance for quiet operation
What We Didn’t Like
- Not ideal for use on non-carpeted floors
- Hard to use while using swivel chair
2. Cubii Pro Under Desk Elderly Exercise Peddler
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How the Cubii Works
The Cubii Pro Elliptical is an award-winning fitness machine designed for low-impact exercises, helping seniors do strengthening exercises from the comfort of their home. Let’s delve into what this peddler for the elderly can and can’t do.
Cubii for seniors features a discreet, compact, ergonomic design that allows you to work out while relaxing, working, or watching TV. It comes in muted colors, allowing it to blend easily with most home décor themes.
On top of being discreet, the Cubii for seniors works in silence. Well, not total silence. You will hear a low hum, kind of like white noise that only you will hear, so it’s okay to use it at work or at home.
Another feature we like and that’s only found in the Cubii Pro Elliptical is Bluetooth connectivity, which allows seamless connectivity to Cubii’s Android and iOS app. This helps you keep track of RPM, calories burned, speed and more.
Other features that users will get to enjoy while using this pedal exerciser for elderly include 8 resistance levels and wheel stoppers. With this exercise peddler, you can lose weight and strengthen your muscles while staying seated. The Cubii Pro is no doubt a worthy exercise companion.
What We Liked
- Works with Apple HealthKit and FitBit (FYI: Learn how to link FitBit with Google Fit)
- Ideal for strengthening your glutes, hip flexors, quads, core muscles and quads
- More stable and safe compared to traditional exercise peddlers
- Great for people on wheelchairs
- Bluetooth tracking allows you to easily monitor your progress and set goals through your smartphone
- Comes with 8 resistance levels
What We Didn’t Like
- Heavy compared to other leg exercisers for elderly
3. Exerpeutic 7101 Active Cycle Motorized Mini Exercise Bike
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If you wish for a motorized pedal exerciser, the 7101 from Exerpeutic is the best pick. This peddler for elderly allows you to exercise while in a seated position, watching TV, working, or reading a magazine while working out the flab. Let’s see what the Exerpeutic 7101 Active mini exercise bike is all about.
The Exerpeutic 7101 Active Cycle comes preassembled. You don’t need to worry about screws and all that stuff. Just unpack and start pedaling. It features a beautiful and compact design and comes with numerous convenient features.
This mini bike is equipped with a powerful motor that operates the exerciser and allows you to exercise without stressing your muscles and joints.
The motor comes with an automated stop overload feature and timer. This features automatically switches off this peddler after 15 minutes of continuous use to ensure your safety when using the unit.
It comes with a multi-functional LCD display for keeping track of your workout sessions. You get to track time, speed, calories burned, heart rate, distance covered, cycles, and total cycles, which all help you stay motivated and set achievable goals.
Another feature we like is the hand-held speed controller that allows you to easily adjust the speed to your preference. The Active Cycle floor peddler comes with foldable pedals with straps that prevent slippage. Other features you will enjoy include the bonus non-skid mat and warranty.
The Exerpeutic 7101 Active Cycle is ideal for:
- Strengthening muscles
- Improving balance and movement
- Improving blood circulation
- Low impact workouts; its also one of the best arm exercise bike
What We Liked
- Ideal for people with limited mobility
- Can be used with the motor turned on or off for higher resistance
- Compact and sleek design
- Lightweight and portable
- Motor works quietly
What We Didn’t Like
- Does not have exercise programs
- Doesn’t run in reverse
Related Post: Stationary bike vs walking – Click Here to Read More!
4. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike (MY17)
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Schwinn has one of the best recumbent bike collections. The Schwinn 270 is an upgrade of the Schwinn 230. It has more advanced features and offers more comfort. Let’s look at what makes the Schwinn 270 the best home exercise peddlers for seniors.
This stationary pedal exerciser for the elderly features a simple walk-through design. No need to lift your legs, no need for a climbing stool. Just walk through, take your seat, and you’re good to go.
The seat is well-padded for comfort, breathable, adjustable, and it can accommodate users up to 6’ tall.
The MY17 comes with 25 programs. You get access to 9 heart rate control exercises, 12 profile workouts, and fitness tests. So if you’re looking for a low-impact trainer to use on your path to better health, the Schwinn 270 is the best option.
Another feature that is unique to the 270 leg exerciser for elderly is the heart rate monitor. You get two options – you can monitor your heart rate either wirelessly or by gripping the pulse monitors on the handlebars on the side of the seat.
The 270 recumbent bike does not come with the chest straps required for wireless monitoring, but you can easily buy those.
Other features worth noting include the USB charging port where you can charge your phone or tablet, an accessory tray, and a water bottle holder. You may want to know that the Schwinn 270 stores personal data and workout information for four users and is definitely one of the best stationary peddle exerciser for seniors.
What We Liked
- Easy to assemble (clear assembly instructions)
- Walk-through design for easy on/off the bike
- Cushioned seat and breathable backrest
- High capacity
- Allows for USB data transfer
What We Didn’t Like
- Speakers with low volume
- Light flywheel compared to other pedal exercisers
Related Post: Recumbent Bike Vs Upright Bike – Who Won?
5. Stamina Elite Total Body Foot Pedal Exerciser
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Recumbent bikes are popular among seniors due to the comfort and low-impact exercises they offer. Another excellent option for seniors looking to keep fit is the Stamina Elite Total Body Recumbent Bike.
This foot exercise machine for elderly comes with some nice, convenient features. It features feet and hands pedals, which is one reason this bike is popular.
This 2-in-1 function allows whole body exercise. The hand pedals exercise your back, arms, chest, and shoulders while the feet pedals exercise your quads, hamstrings, core, and glutes.
Another reason to consider this bike is the comfortable adjustable seat. It is highly adjustable to accommodate users up to 6’ tall. The seat is well padded for maximum comfort, and there are handlebars on the sides of the seat for extra stability.
The Stamina Elite Total Body Bike has a monitor that displays the rider’s workout data. Since the bike is battery-powered, you can place it anywhere in your home. The monitor displays time, distance covered, calories burned and more.
To ensure that you get value for money, the pedal exerciser has a heavy-duty frame, can handle up to 250lbs, and will last for many years.
Other features we like include the 8 resistance levels that accommodate beginners and experienced riders, pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring, and adjustable pedal straps for safety. With the Stamina Elite Total Body workout, keeping fit becomes possible even when you’re homebound.
What We Like
- Comes with built-in wheels for easy transportation
- Has a tension adjustment knob that allows for smooth transition between resistance levels
- Runs smoothly and quietly
What We Didn’t Like
- Does not come with programs
- Same dial controls resistance settings for upper body and lower body
Related Post: See the Best Rowing Machine for Elderly to Increase Overall Fitness!
6. Vive Pedal Exerciser for Seniors
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Are you looking for a budget exercise peddler? We’ve got here the Vive Pedal Exerciser for you!
Do take note that this stationary exercise pedal for the elderly needs some assembling, but it’s not that complicated.
It will take you under 30 minutes to assemble it. All you need to do is attach the front leg and rear leg to the unit. Then attach the pedal to the leg exerciser, and you can start pedaling to good health!
The Vive is designed to help improve circulation, strengthen your arms and legs, and relieve muscle tension. It’s the best budget choice for exercising your arms and legs.
The Vive Pedal Exerciser weighs around 15 lbs, making it one of the lightest units on the market. This unit is lightweight but has a base that’s heavy enough to keep it stable. It comes with a convenient handle, which is why it’s no-sweat to move the mini bike around the house.
It measures 12 inches high, making it compact enough to fit under any desk. You will be pleased to know it works quietly so it won’t interrupt your work, and you won’t have to adjust your TV’s volume.
Another feature we like is the adjustable resistance. As a user, you can customize your workout experience to fit your exercise needs. Its adjustment knob helps you adjust the resistance level with ease.
Other features worth mentioning include the LCD display that allows you to monitor time, RPM, calories burned and distance, adjustable toe loops, and nonslip pedal bars for safety and comfort.
What We Liked
- Great for exercising your upper body and lower body
- Ideal for people recovering from injury or surgery
- Has molded finger grips for safety
- Features a portable and low-profile design
- Comes with multi-functional display
- Operates smoothly
What We Didn’t Like
- Pedals not ideal for shoes over size 11
7. FitDesk 3.0 Desk Foot Peddler for Elderly
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What about a pedal exerciser for seniors that you can bring to the gym or your office? We’ve got one for you – the FitDesk 3.0 exercise bike, and we’re sure you’ll love it. Here’s why it’s the best pick for you.
This folding pedal exerciser is designed for busy people who want to work and exercise at the same time. It’s my dad’s go-to fitness equipment. Let’s look at what this exercise pedals for elderly can and can’t do.
The people at FitDesk designed the model 2.0 to help busy people work out without having to put work on hold. The floor peddler Model 2.0 pedal exerciser is a hit among working professionals.
Users made some suggestions on areas to improve. Enter the Model 3.0, an upgrade of the Model 2.0.
The FitDesk 3.0 adjustable desktop bike has a capacity of 300 pounds while the Model 2.0 can only hold 250 lbs. Another feature that was improved is the desktop. The version 3.0 comes with a 16” x 19” desktop that is expandable to accommodate all the things you need for your project.
The non-slip rubber mat ensures your laptop does not slip when you’re working out. The desktop also comes with adjustable armrests with massage rollers, which support your forearms while you type and help burst out tight knots on your arms. Isn’t that lovely?
The bike’s flywheel is very quiet, allowing for maximum concentration. Its seat is cushy and large, allowing different-sized users to use the bike comfortably while the performance meter monitors your fitness progress.
While you take a break, you can use the resistance bands for your upper body workout. The FitDesk 3.0 folds easily and has wheels for easy transportation. With the FitDesk 3.0 you will get a well-rounded workout from the comfort of your home or office.
What We Liked
- This exercise peddler comes with lots of convenient features like the tablet holder and storage tray
- Reliable, comfortable, and quiet
- Comfortable backrest and saddle
- Nonslip desk surface
- Lots of storage space
What We Didn’t Like
- Available in only one color
- Meter somewhat simple compared to other exercise pedals for elderly
8. Schwinn Recumbent Bike 230
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Another fitness equipment that is ideal for leg strengthening exercises for seniors is the Schwinn Recumbent Bike 230. Here are some reasons why this exercise peddler is number 8 on this list
One, Easy accessibility. The Schwinn 230 features a simple walk-through design that makes getting on/off the bike easy. Compared to upright bikes, it stands lower to the ground allowing you hassle-free access to the chair.
Two, Comfort. It’s more comfortable than other exercise bikes within the same price bracket. The 230 exercise bike comes with an adjustable seat that provides great lumbar support while you work out. The seat adjusts forward or backwards, allowing users of different heights to use the bike comfortably. The back is well ventilated, ensuring that you stay cool and dry during your workouts.
Three, Workout programs. The Schwinn 230 comes with 20 built-in workout programs and 2 fitness tests. These programs cover everything from exercises ideal for beginners to routines for advanced levels. It’s never boring with the 230 exerciser.
Related Post: Does a Recumbent Bike Work Inner Thighs?
Four, Intuitive console. This bike comes with a console that’s smaller and more intuitive than those of the previous recumbent bikes. This console lets you set your exercise goals without difficulty. The DualTrack LCD screen displays exercise programs, heart rate, and more.
Five, Resistance levels. The Schwinn 230 comes with 20 resistance levels, so you get to pick an intensity option that best suits your fitness needs.
Six, Two user profiles. This recumbent exercise bike for seniors can store exercise data for two users, allowing you to share your peddler with your significant other.
Seven, Heart rate monitor: You can keep tabs on your heart rate. Unfortunately, it only shows it as a percentage. If you really want to monitor your heart rate, we recommend that you go for the Schwinn 270 exercise bike. Compare with the Schwinn 270 model below.
Eight, Other benefits: The Schwinn 230 is the gift that keeps giving. Other benefits include built-in speakers and sound system, which allows you to listen to music as you work out, water bottle holder, USB charging port, media tray, warranty, and more.
Well, there you have it. Eight solid reasons why the Schwinn 230 is also included in our top picks list. This recumbent exercise bike will help you exercise comfortably and safely.
What We Liked
- Very quiet operation
- Great tension capability
- Seat is easy to adjust and stable
- Comes with two LCD monitors
- Low impact on joints and knees
What We Didn’t Like
- Heart rate monitor is inferior to the Schwinn 270 model
- Seat could use a little more padding
9. MagneTrainer-ER Pedal Exerciser for Seniors
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Another great stationary pedal for elderly that helps with leg strengthening exercises for seniors is the MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike. Just like other mini bikes on this list, this pedal exerciser allows you to exercise your legs while seated. You can also use it to exercise your arms. Let’s take a more detailed look at this pedal exerciser for seniors.
The MagneTrainer-ER is the most commonly used exercise peddler in physical therapy clinics, assisted living facilities and nursing homes, and hospitals. Doctors and physical therapists recommend this pedal exerciser due to its convenient features and smooth, quiet operation.
This under desk peddler comes with strong, wide pedals, featuring finger-like grooves that allow you to grip the bike comfortably. The pedals have adjustable Velcro straps that allow you to adjust your hands or feet for the perfect pedaling exercise experience.
Another feature we like is the unlimited resistance levels offered by the MagneTrainer-ER. It has the widest resistance range among the models featured in this guide. It is equipped with a convenient rotation range to help you select the resistance level that best suits your needs.
One more thing that stands out in the MagneTrainer-ER mini bike is its reverse pedaling exercise capability. Pedaling forward and backward allows you to work out the front and back muscles simultaneously.
Other noteworthy features include the 5-function display (shows scan, calories, speed, distance, and time), strong wide steel base for stability, and online calorie calculator for tracking calories burned. With the MagneTrainer-ER, you’ll enjoy fun, easy, and comfortable workouts.
What We Liked
- Adjustable pedals that fit most feet and hands
- Allows for reverse pedaling
- Very well built; will last for years
What We Didn’t Like
- Not ideal for use on wooden or tiled floors (you can place it on a rug to prevent movement during workouts)
- Taller than most under-desk cycles
10. Confidence Fitness Motorized Electric Mini Exercise Bike
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You shouldn’t miss this motorized pedal exerciser, the Confidence Fitness Motorized Electric Mini Exercise Bike. It operates smoothly and quietly, allowing you to work out as you watch your favorite show or read a book.
One of its best features is the motorized pedal action, which allows people with conditions such as MS (Multiple Sclerosis) to use the unit safely and comfortably. This exerciser comes with 12 speed settings and, at its maximum level, offers speeds of up to 80 RPM. You can change the speed via the remote control.
Another reason to consider this motorized pedal exerciser is the manual and reverse pedaling exercise capability, so rest assured that you can exercise both your back and front muscles.
Other features we like include the built-in timer that allows you to work out according the training goals you have set, pedals with Velcro straps for safety and proper fit, 1 manual program, and 5 automatic programs. This exercise peddler will help you build strength and maintain your mobility through recovery or into old age.
What We Like
- Easy to use for people with disability or conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or MS
- Ideal for manual use
- Can work both legs and arms
- Easy to switch between speed settings
What We Didn’t Like
- Remote’s cord is short
Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Exercise Pedal for Elderly
Factors to Consider when Buying a Pedal Exerciser for Seniors
Here are some important factors to consider when choosing an exercise pedal for elderly.
Fits under the Desk
If you want to exercise while working, consider a peddler that will fit under your desk. The DeskCycle fits perfectly under most desks. Alternatively, you could consider the FitDesk, which lets you exercise and continue working on your projects.
Design
You don’t want your fitness equipment to be an eyesore, so best to choose a mini bike that features a simple, yet stylish design, with color tones that don’t clash with your interiors. Also, make sure that the bike is lightweight and easy to move around.
Material
Go for an exercise pedal made from durable materials. You want a unit that will last for years.
Stability
If a pedal exerciser has a wide base, go for it. A wide, sturdy base ensures the unit is stable and safe to use.
Foldability
How much space do you have to spare for your pedaling exercises? If you’ve got plenty of space, by all means get a larger model. But, if you have limited space, opt for a foldable one. Also, a foldable foot peddler for elderly that is easy to move around.
Height
Are you going to use your pedal exerciser in an office? When choosing a stationary peddler, consider its height. Most under-desk space measures between 20 – 26 inches, so most of these featured pedal exercisers will fit perfectly.
Weight
If you want a machine that you can use in any room or in the outdoors, go for a lightweight machine. In this list you’ll find some lightweight options offering the same intense workouts as heavy-duty machines.
Benefits of Pedal Exerciser for Elderly
As you age, you’ll find it harder to user cardio machines such as HIIT trainers, and it’s okay. With a pedal exerciser, it will take longer to burn calories, but it’s better than nothing. Here are the awesome benefits you get from a pedal exerciser for elderly.
- Improves body metabolism
- Reduces the effects of arthritis
- Burns calories
- Tones muscles and helps in weight loss
- Improves mood and sleep
- Allows for low impact workouts just like seated elliptical machines
More: Here is a detailed guide on the benefits of pedal exerciser for elderly
Conclusion
Are you ever too old to exercise? Exercise is important regardless of your age. There’s no reason to stop working out just because you’ve hit 70 because a good pedal exerciser for seniors will keep you healthy and strong for years to come.
What we’ve listed here are some of the best exercise peddlers for the elderly to help you decide.
FAQs
1. Are pedal exercisers good for weight loss?
One of the best ways for seniors to lose weight is by exercising with the help of a pedal exerciser. With this fitness equipment, you can expect to burn up to 300 calories when you pedal for about 40 minutes. We recommended that seniors workout for at least 3 hours each week.
2. What muscles does a exercise peddler for Senior people work?
A mini exercise bike works out the same muscles group as a recumbent bike. The muscle groups engaged when you pedal include calves, glutes, hip flexors, quads, and hamstrings.
3. Does a pedal exerciser help lose weight?
It’s no secret that using a foot peddler will help you shed off weight. If you used one, how much can you expect to lose? According to this resource, you can burn up to 290 calories in a one hour session.
However, that’s only an approximation because other factors affect the exact number of calories burned by a person. For instance, your age, weight, sex, fitness level, and intensity level matter.
To continue losing weight and prevent reaching a weight loss plateau, we recommend that you constantly increase the resistance level when your body becomes accustomed to a certain level of resistance.
Written by Alisha Wishart – TheHealthPot.com
Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Writer and Contributor
Alisha, is a Mother, Wife and Certified Personal Trainer (CPT). She understands how demanding everyday life can be and takes great pride in working with individuals and groups to help them achieve their desired fitness goals. Read more about Alisha here.