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?
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