Walk Through Work With TrekDesk

Health benefits at work just took on a whole new meaning with the TrekDesk. This new workstation with a built-in treadmill is garnering interest- and controversy.

Let’s start with the positives of TrekDesk.

*This helps Americans reach the Surgeon General set goal of 10,000 steps per day; which coincidentally, is equivalent to 3 hours of walking on the TrekDesk.

*Recent research has come out reporting that there is a correlation to sedentary lifestyles and weight gain. WHAT??! I know this is mind-blowing news, but the supposed latest information is that sitting actually “switches” off the employee’s ability to burn fat properly.

Let’s continue on to the potential problems with TrekDesk.

*While this machine alleges to allow employees to walk without sweating, how true is this claim? This could cause some serious stink issues in the workplace.

*Have you ever actually tried to read while on a treadmill? Some of us lack the hand-eye coordination that others were gifted with. I can’t imagine attempting to send an email, talking on the phone, and walking all at the same time.

*Which leads me to my next point...can you say workers compensation claims? There are enough treadmill-related injuries at the gym, let alone trying to multi-task work and walking on an always moving surface.

TrekDesk has some serious potential for those that want to incorporate more exercise into their days (and for those that are coordinated enough to use it). However, I don’t know if we should ever go as far as to require this be used of employees. And unfortunately I believe the money and health benefit savings for companies would be seen from getting those employees that don’t want to use it.

What do you think- thumbs up or down for the functionality of the TrekDesk? Would you use the TrekDesk if your company offered it?

Comments

[Mark McClure Coaching]

Oh boy! I hope the latest voice activated software can handle heavy breathing...

[James]

Please! This might fly at some leftcoast tech firm, but the real offices of the world will never go for it.

[Lauren]

Haha Mark you are so right! If this catches on, blue tooth and other voice activated softwares are going to need an upgrade to handle panting.

[Charles B]

Amazing the number of inventors who have more time and money than common sense. Just a simple question... would you use this thing? Or maybe they DID ask - their mother and their most ingratiating friends.

Oh well, the world is already awash with so many ill-considered devices that nobody wants.or will ever use, what's one more? Only thing is, you won't be able to hide this one under your bed.

[Marie Adams]

I think the TrekDesk is a great idea. With all the time we spend planted on our behinds during the day, it's a great way to get work done while active. The downside - I don't know how many businesses are going to shell out the money for one, let alone an entire office full of these. Cool idea, but it doesn't look like even Google will have the money to put it in the office anytime soon.

[Tamara K]

I love the idea because I have been using a home made version for some time. It does not take extra coordination, it is easy and I end the day feeling a lot more energetic. As for sweating, I have to watch what I wear but at low speeds it is not a problem at all. The price of this one is incredibly cheap. I emailed TrekDesk and they said it will cost $399. The others I have seen are in the thousands. Their website also had a ton of information that many of the naysayers might want to read first.

[Lauren]

Good information Tamara- thank you!

[sarah]

I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
Sarah
http://www.thetreadmillguide.com

[Andrew G. Rosen]

@Sarah: Thank you for your comment and welcome to Jobacle! We are grateful to have you as a reader and look forward to any comments/feedback you have to offer.