Meet the Challenge: One Woman, One Machine, One Week
We have one chubby lady, one compact pedal exerciser, and seven days to test it out. Can this little machine turn the fabulous image she sees in the mirror into an actual reality?
We are most definitely going to find out.
Introduction & Purpose
Hello lovely humans — I’m Heather, and I’m on a journey to get healthy and test all the fitness fads along the way. I’ve tried the weighted hula hoop, the WonderCore, and the reigning champ so far: the mini stepper.
But today, a new opponent enters the ring: the Ancheer compact pedal exerciser.
You might be wondering if these compact machines are worth all the hype. Honestly? So am I. I’m especially curious if it can help me sculpt some toned legs. According to manufacturers, these machines offer low-impact workouts that improve muscle strength and circulation — and they’re supposedly suitable for seniors, desk workers, and people undergoing rehab.
As a physical therapist, I’ve used these machines with patients, but never for myself. This is my 7-day experiment, using the machine for 30 minutes a day to answer three questions:
- Does it work?
- Who is it best for?
- Is it worth the money?
The Before Picture (And Some Context)
As you can see, my legs currently carry a lot of swelling, fat, and some very fashionable bruising. Why? I have lipedema, which involves both inflammation and uneven fat distribution.
Oh — and I recently had a vein ablation on one leg, with another procedure scheduled during this challenge. That means improving circulation isn’t just a fitness goal — it’s a medical need.
Unboxing and Setup
Inside the box:
- Remote control
- Cleaning brush
- Power cable
- Instruction manual
- Batteries
- The machine itself
The Ancheer is well-padded and easy to unbox. Unlike the heavy, therapeutic-grade ellipticals I use in the clinic, this model is lightweight — perfect for someone recovering from a procedure or with limited lifting ability.
The blue accents are cute, and the pedals tilt — a big plus for cleaning if you’ve got cats like I do.
Getting Started: First Impressions
I dug through the manual (yes, really) and learned:
- The buttons on the display match the remote — great if you’re at a desk and don’t want to bend down.
- It has 12 speeds and 12 auto programs.
- There’s a 30-minute automatic shutoff — perfect for this challenge.
- It tracks time, distance, calories, and steps.
In terms of noise: it’s surprisingly quiet. On manual mode, you’ll hear a bit more, but still office-appropriate. You can also switch directions and use it manually if you prefer to push with your legs.
Is it intense? No. Is it effective? Let’s find out.
Days 1–4: Getting in the Groove
Day 1: Post-procedure, I went easy with a slow auto setting. It helped with blood flow and didn’t hurt — a win in my book.
Day 2: My leg was still sore, but less swollen than expected. Coincidence? Maybe not. I used active mode, split into 15 minutes forward, 15 back. Bonus: I got to enjoy my Christmas lights and Murder, She Wrote.
Day 3: I increased speed and focused on leg muscle engagement. Mittens the cat assisted with biscuits while I pedaled.
Day 4: I tested speed. Even pedaling full blast, the machine didn’t slide. I didn’t sweat buckets, but my legs felt worked — especially thighs.
Days 5–7: Fatigue and Small Wins
Day 5: Despite a demanding child (cat), I pushed hard. No slipping, no tipping, just a steady ride.
Day 6: Half-dead from holiday food, but I dragged myself up. Once on, it was relaxing and helpful. Soreness eased. Circulation improved.
Day 7: I finished strong. Even tired, I enjoyed the session. It wasn’t overwhelming — it was gentle and kind to my joints.
Results & Final Verdict
Before and after? Bruising faded. Swelling didn’t increase — even with limited compression therapy. That’s a win.
Does It Work?
Yes. Especially for improving circulation. It won’t turn you into a cardio machine, but it’s great for subtle daily movement.
Who Should Use It?
- Seniors: Great for gentle movement while watching TV.
- Desk Workers: Burn extra calories while typing or editing.
- Rehab Patients: From joint replacements to neurological conditions, this is perfect for transitioning to active movement.
Is It Worth the Money?
Prices range from $109 to $249. The Ancheer model I tested runs $149.99 (currently $129.99 on Amazon). For the features it offers and how well it fits into my daily life — yes, totally worth it.
Final Thoughts
I’m keeping mine under my desk to use while editing videos. It helps circulation, burns a few extra calories, and is low-key enough to use even on my off days.
If you’ve got questions about the compact pedal exerciser, how we use it in therapy, or how it fits into your lifestyle, drop them in the comments. And let me know what product you want me to test next!
See you soon — I’ve got pedaling to do. 💙