Walking Pad vs Treadmill: How To Choose the Right One
We're constantly told that we need to move our bodies every day. However, busy schedules or a lack of access to a gym can make it hard to do so. Some people may also not feel comfortable exercising in public spaces.
Fitness devices like walking pads and treadmills can help you enhance your exercise routine from the convenience of your own home. They can make it easier to meet your fitness goals, regardless of the weather or any responsibilities that make it harder to leave your home.
These devices can also be a great way to incorporate movement into your day if you work from home and find yourself unable to regularly get away from your desk.
Read on to learn about the key differences between walking pads and treadmills and how you can choose one that is right for you.
Can sitting for too long negatively affect your health?
Research has shown that prolonged sitting can negatively affect your health. In fact, a 2024 study found that sitting for more than eight hours a day can increase your cholesterol and the chance of developing cardiovascular disease.
However, many people may find it difficult to fit movement into their day due to various factors, such as remote working conditions or caring responsibilities. Fitness devices such as treadmills and walking pads can make daily exercise more accessible.
» Learn more about the benefits of walking.
What is a walking pad?
A walking pad is a motorized belt similar to a treadmill, except it doesn't have a handrail. One of its main functions is that it is compact and foldable, meaning it can be slotted away. This can be particularly beneficial if you have a confined space and don't have room to leave a fitness device out.
Uses
Walking pads are commonly used in home offices under a standing desk to allow for exercise while working. Some people may also use it while reading a book or watching TV to make it easier to motivate themselves to hit daily fitness goals.
Benefits
There are several benefits to using a walking pad:
Offers practical solutions to exercising when living in a confined space, such as an apartment.
Can help reduce prolonged sitting if you have a desk job.
Can make you more motivated to reach daily step count goals, if you can work while exercising.
Can remove barriers and make regular exercise more accessible.
Setbacks
A walking pad typically has limited motor power, which means it may not be able to accommodate activities like running at high speeds.
What is a treadmill?
A treadmill has a motorized belt with a handrail that provides balance support.
It tends to be more powerful than a walking pad and can also be adjusted to an incline, which means you can raise the platform to evoke the same effects as walking uphill.
Uses
One of the key functions of a treadmill is its high motor speed. This means you can use for exercises like brisk walking and jogging, but it can also support intense workouts like running at high speeds.
Benefits
A treadmill can offer several benefits, such as:
Can allow you to run at an incline, which can improve muscle strength.
Can feel more accessible for older adults and people with limited mobility due to handrail support.
Can offer faster speed settings, which can allow you to build your endurance.
Often provides more of a cushioned surface, which may provide more comfort when used for prolonged periods.
Setbacks
The main setback of a treadmill is that it is not compact and requires storage space. While some models do fold up, it may still be difficult to slot away.
A treadmill can also be quite heavy and may be difficult to bring out and unfold each day. If you're feeling unmotivated, you may choose to skip exercising if it means you have to move and set up a heavy fitness device.
Walking pad vs treadmill comparison table
Walking pad Treadmill
Speed Slow motor power, generally only designed for walking or light jogging. Fast motor power, can allow you to run at high speeds.
Home office compatibility Can be used under a standing desk due to having no hand rail. Cannot be used with a standing desk.
Comfort Generally has a thin walking surface, due to its compact design. Typically has a more cushioned surface.
Space usage Is compact, lightweight, and can be folded away easily behind furniture. Foldable models are available, but are typically heavy and require proper storage space.
Cost $300 to $600 $300 to $1000+
Incline option Does not allow you raise the platform. Typically has an option to raise the platform at an incline.
Handrail support Does not have handrail suport. Comes with a handrail, which may allow users to feel safer when exercising.
Takeaway
Walking pads and treadmills can help you increase your exercise levels with the convenience of staying indoors.
While they both offer similar benefits of being able to exercise in the comfort of your own home, there are some key differences.
A walking pad is generally built for walking and light jogging, which means it can't accommodate activities like running at high speeds. However, it can be used under a standing desk to allow for exercise while working.
A treadmill offers faster speed settings, allowing for a more intense workout. However, it requires storage space and may be less accessible to those living in smaller spaces.
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