You will definitely want to incorporate some of the ideas here! I am fortunate to have a table with an extension that I set up my ironing pad and my iron on. All I have to do is swivel to my left. The pad is one of those June Taylor Cut N Press things. The cut side is awful and I have never used it, but the press side is invaluable! It is horribly raggedy now, but I found a new pressing pad at a quilt show recently, so it will be replaced. I like my full size iron. I've heard the Clover mini irons are not what they used to be. Can anyone attest to this? I am still interested in them.
ETA: As for the excersize factor: It is good to get and move during those marathon sewing sessions, and sometimes I forego the convenience and do just that! For the most part, I am still a slave to my treadmill and worship it each morning, LOL!