Working entirely remotely as a freelance journalist, my living room serves as my office. Aside from errands or appointments, I rarely leave the house during the week. Coworking spaces aren’t an option for a variety of reasons, and I don’t consider simply walking for the sake of walking a productive use of time—though perhaps it’s the perfect excuse to get a dog. I as well don’t prioritize dedicating an hour each day to working out at home. I do a few push-ups and pull-ups occasionally, just to keep moving, and I hit the gym one or two times a week for tchoukball—a sport you likely haven’t heard of.
Yes, the cable management could be better. One step at a time. © Les Numériques
Towards the end of 2025, I decided to find a solution to stay active, and it came in the form of a Christmas gift: a motorized treadmill. I’ve been walking almost daily while working for about a month now, and I want to share my experience—the good and the bad.
A Method That Requires Significant Investment
Let’s address the upfront costs.
First, there’s the treadmill itself, which will require a minimum investment of a few hundred euros. My model cost around €200, but more expensive options are available, particularly those with incline features. This solution also requires a standing desk. As I spend all day working on a computer, I wanted to continue looking at a screen at a comfortable height and, more importantly, be able to type while walking. That will also set you back a few hundred euros, likely more than the treadmill itself, but your back will thank you for not spending your days sitting.
I prefer to do without the handrail for comfort. © Les Numériques
Another consideration is logistics. Between the standing desk, the treadmill, and your chair, you’ll need to find space for everything, both when in use and when stored. In my case, the treadmill, when folded horizontally, fits under my desk with just an inch to spare. Otherwise, I would have had to return it for lack of storage space. Be sure to measure carefully before ordering and remember to provide a power outlet within reach of the treadmill, while a quiet model is preferable if you don’t work alone.
Just right. © Les Numériques
Finally, there’s the issue of motivation. That depends on you. I decided to use my treadmill/desk combo every weekday when I don’t go to the gym in the evening. I aim for 100 minutes in the early afternoon after lunch to simulate a digestive walk. At a speed of 3.5 to 4 km/h—roughly a normal walking pace—I reach 10,000 steps (about 3.7 miles and 400 calories burned), all while continuing to work. The challenge, particularly in the summer when it’s 86°F in my living room, will be maintaining this routine.
Don’t worry, that’s definitely a water bottle in the foreground. © Les Numériques
Walk or Dev
For now, I’m extremely satisfied with this method. It’s too early to notice any health benefits, but walking more each day can only be a positive. Plus, I can continue to work almost without limitation during my sessions, so I’m not wasting time simply walking for exercise. I only lose a few seconds each day setting up/storing the treadmill and raising/lowering the desk.
Tracking progress on a screen or app can be a good source of motivation. © Les Numériques
I realize this solution isn’t for everyone, given the cost and logistical requirements. However, it can assist many people working remotely—or anyone, for that matter—stay in shape under any circumstances, without wasting time or being exposed to pollution or the elements.
I promise I won’t lead you on!
Want to save even more money? Check out our selected promo codes.
