These small treadmills are popular, but their disadvantages may exceed their advantages
Walking while working isn't a new concept; we initially published a "treadputer" on our site in 2006. But the concept has back, and it's experiencing a boom in popularity owing to cheaper, smaller treadmill models known as "walking pads." So, what's the difference between a treadmill and a walking pad, and are they really a game changer for your job or fitness? Let's get started.
What exactly is a walking pad?
WalkingPad is a brand of fold-away treadmills, although the name "walking pad" has become a generic term for this type of gadget. Walking mats are often smaller and less expensive than treadmills. Many of them fold up (some even fold in half) and are designed to be moved into and out of whichever location you keep them on a regular basis, such as against a wall or tucked under a couch.
And the TikTok ladies adore them. You can go on and on with young ladies stating things like "so I saw these walking pads on TikTok and decided to acquire one for myself..."
What is the best way to utilize a walking pad?
Because it's essentially a little treadmill, you may utilize it anyway you see fit. Some individuals use them at home while watching TV or doing other things. However, you will primarily see them in work-from-home or even office arrangements that look like this:
The individual has a walking pad and a standing workstation. They put on walking shoes and strap their fitness tracker to their ankle when their workweek begins (since their hands will be at the laptop). You can purchase an aftermarket ankle strap if your strap isn't long enough to reach.
Some folks leave the walking pad under their desk all day; others have a movable desk and will switch the walking pad for a chair when it's time to sit. Those who use the pad frequently report that they may easily reach 10,000 steps by the afternoon.
One thing that pleased me: there are several reviews online from people who have used a walking pad on a regular basis. Here's one from TikTok from someone who has been using theirs for nine months, and here's one from Reddit from someone who is still "extremely impressed" after three months of heavy use. Because the pads' popularity is still relatively young, there aren't many long-term evaluations. If you want something that will last for years, it's unclear if an inexpensive walking pad will suffice.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of a walking pad?
Walking pads' selling strengths are also their disadvantages, namely their compact size and low cost. Here's a list of things to think about.
Do you wish to stroll or maybe run on it quickly?
Walking pads are made specifically for walking. Most have a peak speed that is equal to or less than walking pace. One of WalkingPad's more affordable models, for example, has a peak speed of 3.75 miles per hour. The Rebel 1000 has a top speed of 2.0 miles per hour. However, if you look carefully, you may discover walking pads that can reach speeds of up to 7.5 miles per hour.
So, how fast is that? If you query Google Maps for walking instructions, it will estimate you walk at a speed of roughly 3.0 miles per hour. That's a very typical walking speed. When you're working, you could be more comfortable at a slower pace, more of an amble than a walk.
Even if you get a pad with a greater peak speed, the length of the pad may become an issue as you travel faster. Because of the length of their stride, runners require longer treadmills than walkers. Some of the smaller types may be less comfortable for longer-legged people, especially when walking quickly, so keep this in mind when deciding what to buy.
One other thing: some treadmills feature a railing that can be raised or lowered while in use. Higher speeds may necessitate that the handle be in the "up" position, which may result in complaints from users who discover that the handle does not fit beneath their standing desk. So keep this in mind when you go shopping.
How much money are you prepared to spend?
People frequently gravitate to walking pads because they appear to be less expensive than treadmills. However, this is not always the case.
One treadmill on Runner's World's list costs approximately $300, another costs around $700, and the rest cost between $1,000 and $2,000. Many high-end brands can set you back $2,000 or more (Peloton's Tread costs well over $3,000.) If you're willing to look on the used market, you might be able to locate one that's been used as a garment rack for years for as little as $100—but that's a bit of a bet.
Walking mats, often known as "folding treadmills," are frequently less expensive, but not always. Many appear to be in the $300-$600 price range, with some inexpensive models available for around $200 and elegant ones costing well into the four figures. WalkingPad's offers vary from $300 to $1,099, while this comparison includes pads ranging from $300 to $2,199.
Will you reposition it every day?
The folding storage appears to be practical, but the disadvantage is that you must move it and unfold it every time you want to use the pad. Some individuals have desks that are large enough to accommodate a walking pad and a chair side by side; others can place a folding chair on the walking pad when it is switched off. However, most people report they switch between treadmill and chair during the day.
This may work if your schedule is planned in such a way that you have a morning when you can perform chores while walking and an afternoon where you want to sit down. But be truthful to yourself. If you've ever had a standing desk, did you find yourself standing all day, or did you set it to the "down" position and then forget to lift it back up? Do you bring your bike out and ride it a couple times a week, or does it sit in the corner and you say to yourself, "I'll use it again someday"?
What is the quality of walking pads like?
Walking pad reviews are all over the place. Many of the influencers who brag about them bought theirs from Amazon, and several mention missing remote controllers or difficulty getting them to work. If you take this route, make sure the return policy is good; customers who bought them through Amazon typically found that the firm was prepared to send them a replacement part or a whole new walking pad, though that still means you have to find a way to get rid of the broken one.
Many of these walking pads use low-power motors, which might be a problem. You want something powerful enough that it won't break down with little wear and tear, especially if you're heavy or run a lot of kilometers on a treadmill. People who have used treadmills appear to agree that the inexpensive walking pads aren't going to last very long—but this will depend on the specific model you acquire and how well it's manufactured.
When purchasing, make sure to read all of the specs. Many have a weight limit, and the less expensive walking mats are less durable than a standard treadmill. Remember that if you use it every day, you'll likely put more miles on it than a marathoner who just trains for an hour or two every day. So select wisely.
Finally, what should I get?
If you want something that will last a long time, invest in a genuine treadmill from a reputable manufacturer.
Get a genuine treadmill if you want to run.
A walking mat or folding treadmill is the way to go if you need (and will really use!) something that folds up for storage.
If you want a real treadmill but have a restricted budget, consider walking pads in your search, but keep in mind that you could be better off buying a secondhand treadmill rather than a walking pad that doesn't accomplish all a treadmill can.
If you think you'll be able to get some work done while walking (or if you're dead set on using it while watching TV), go for it. Be the work-from-homer with an ankle watch that you want to see in the world.
#Ttreadmill #WalkingPad #Running #Walking #Fitness
SOURCE: lifehacker
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