If you want to get a treadmill specifically to use with a standing desk, the simplest solution is to get a desk treadmill that does not have the upright arms that can interfere with the desktop. (That said, here’s how to remove arms from a treadmill.)
Specially designed “under desk treadmills” have a separate console that you can place on your desk conveniently where you can reach it. You essentially can unload the box, plug in your machine and you’re ready to walk.
 LifeSpan Under Desk Treadmill
|  Compact FoldingWalking Pad
|  GoPlus Walking Treadmill with LED Display
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Unsit Treadmill Desks and LifeSpan both sell walking treadmills to work with their own stand-up desks. However, these are standard sized machines that can work with virtually any treadmill desk and many sit-stand desks, so you have a lot of options.
Just make sure that the width of the desk legs allow for the 24″ width of the Rebel Treadmill or 29″ for the LifeSpan.
Don’t Plan on Running… Since both of these machines are designed for walking while working, they do not have an incline option and they don’t have high speeds that allow you to run. The Rebel has a maximum 2 mph speed and the LifeSpan maxes out at 4 mph. Therefore, if you want to run or do hill climbs on your treadmill, you are better off getting another machine.
The Cheap Solution for an Under-Desk Treadmill:
Buying a treadmill workstation can get expensive. Therefore, many people opt for the DIY option. There are a variety of less expensive treadmills, and you can either build a desk or buy a standing desk to fit around the machine you choose.
There are, of course, manual machines that you can get for under $200. However, if you want to concentrate on work while you walk, you’ll appreciate having an electric model.
The Confidence Fitness Ultra Pro costs about $200 and comes with free shipping. This is a $600-$800 savings from the models above.
On the flip side, you get a treadmill that is not as quiet. It has less power, is less sturdy and may not last as long.
This basic machine lacks a lot of bells and whistles. It has a smaller motor (600W), smaller walking area (belt size 38.5″ x 14″ vs approximately 50″ x 18″) and it weigh less (53 lbs), but for many users it does the job.
In fact, several people purchased this machine specifically to create their own walking workstations. Many of the features you pay for in a high-priced treadmill you actually don’t need or use when you’re typing on our computer anyway.
The minimal features of the Confidence Fitness Ultra Pro actually work in your favor when used for working:
- This is a smaller treadmill. Therefore, fits more easily in tight spaces.
- The Power Plus has short handlebars. Thus, it fits underneath more desks.
- It weighs less and is more compact. Hence, you can move it and store it with minimal hassle.
Check out the video below of how one user set up his treadmill work area with the Confidence Fitness Ultra Pro (previously Confidence Power Plus). You can hear how the belt sounds while walking and see other features. Plus, you can get some good ideas on how you can set up your own treadmill very inexpensively:
