Walking pad treadmills have revolutionized the way we approach fitness and wellness in our daily lives. In an era where sedentary lifestyles are increasingly common, these compact and convenient machines offer a practical solution to stay active, no matter how small your available space is! This guide delves into the world of these mini treadmills. We went deep on over 147 of the current best sellers in 2025 and this guide should save you a bit of time if you’re thinking about getting a new machine.
Regular walking can improve cardiovascular health, aid in weight management and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, to maintain a healthy lifestyle. You can do that with one of these machines, no matter what the British weather chucks at you.
Unlike traditional treadmills, walking pads are designed specifically for walking, offering a low maximum speed and a compact running deck without the bulk of guide rails or extensive controls. This design not only makes them ideal for use in limited spaces, such as under a desk or in a small apartment but also ensures they operate quietly, causing minimal disturbance. Moreover, their affordability and ease of storage make them an excellent choice for a wide range of users, from busy professionals to older individuals seeking a safe and effective way to exercise.
As we navigate through the guide, we will explore various models of walking pad treadmills, each with unique features catering to different needs and preferences. From models offering high-tech features like app connectivity to those emphasizing portability and simplicity, this guide aims to provide you with comprehensive information to help you choose the walking pad treadmill that best fits your lifestyle and fitness goals.
- Maximum speed: 6 km/h
- Running Track Size: 96D x 56W cm
- Max user weight: 120 kg
- Treadmill weight: 17.1 kg
- Maximum speed: 4 mph
- Running Track Size: 15.7
- Maximum speed: 12 km/h
- Running Track Size in cm: 140L x 71W
- Max user weight in kg: 100 kg
- Treadmill weight(kg): 500 kg
- Maximum speed: 10 km/h
- Running Track Size: 39 x 97 cm
- Max user weight: 120 kg
- Treadmill weight: 21.6 kg
- Maximum speed: 10 km/h
- Running Track Size: 102 x 39 cm
- Max user weight: 120 kg
- Treadmill weight: 18.9 kg
- Maximum speed: 12 km/h
- Running Track Size: 120L x 60W cm
- Treadmill weight: 30 kg
- Maximum speed: 6 km/h
- Running Track Size in cm: 1040x390mm
- Max user weight in kg: 110 kg
- Treadmill weight: 11.4 kg
- Maximum speed: 10 km/h
- Running Track Size: 119.2D x 54W cm
- Max user weight: 110 kg
- Treadmill weight: 23.56 kg
- Maximum speed: 10.00 km/h
- Treadmill weight: 27kg
- Maximum speed: 10 km/h
- Running Track Size in cm: 42x107cm
- Max user weight in kg: 120kg
- Treadmill weight: 26 kilograms
When most people think of treadmills, they think of the massive, bulky machines that you see in most commercial gyms, with a big set of guide handles and a huge, whirring running deck.
But over the last few years, there’s been a quiet revolution in treadmill use. As we become more aware of the host of benefits that come from regular walking and the amount of damage sitting around all day actually does to us, more people are taking walks than ever.
But for most of us, staying active and on the move is simply not possible.
Whether it’s the realities of having to work an office job, being older or having long-term injuries, or simply theeffects of the pandemic, outside walking might be outside the remit of a lot of us.
Thankfully, there’s an easy fix that anyone can use. A walking pad treadmill.
HOMEFITNESSCODE Walking Pad Treadmill
This compact and quiet treadmill is perfect for home and office use, offering a space-saving design, easy storage, and comfortable, quiet workouts.
Check Latest PriceCompact, quiet, and economical, this space-saving treadmill is an excellent solution for individuals in small apartments or those living with clutter-averse roommates. The subtle operation ensures your late-night fitness sessions won't disrupt anyone's Netflix binge-watch. It's gentle on your pocket and surprisingly robust, built to withstand daily use. The straightforward assembly process is a breeze, avoiding any flatpack furniture frustration.
On the flipside, the belt can be somewhat temperamental, demanding occasional adjustments. Also, the workout options may lack variety for those craving more challenging routines. It's not ideally suited for those seeking a rigorous, Olympian-level training regime.
Compared to its competitors, this model excels in portability and noise-free operation. However, the belt's occasional need for attention and the somewhat limited workout features might encourage potential buyers to consider other options.
To summarise, if you value compactness and simplicity over high-intensity workouts, this is a great choice. Despite the occasional belt issue and its simplistic nature, it's a reliable, quiet treadmill that offers an easy path to fitness without requiring a roomy space. It's a definite 'yes' for those prioritising uncomplicated fitness solutions.
- Compact and Portable: Users appreciate its small footprint and ease of movement, making it suitable for small spaces.
- Quiet Operation: Users find it operates quietly, allowing for use without disturbing others nearby.
- Affordable Price: Users are satisfied with its cost-effectiveness compared to other treadmills.
- Easy Assembly: Users commend the treadmill for its straightforward and hassle-free setup process.
- Durable Build: Users praise its sturdy construction and long-lasting performance.
- Belt Alignment Issues: Some users have experienced difficulties in keeping the belt centered during use, requiring frequent adjustments.
- Limited Training Functions: Users note the lack of advanced training options, which may not meet the needs of more experienced fitness enthusiasts.
Panana Under Desk Treadmill
This compact and portable under desk treadmill with a quiet motor and easy setup is perfect for home or office use. It offers convenience, space-saving design, and a peaceful workout experience.
Check Latest PriceThe Panana Under Desk Treadmill is the quintessential fitness ally for small spaces, offering a nearly silent operation that enables you to exercise while enjoying your favourite TV show, sans the side-eye from your co-living companions.
However, the experience isn't always as smooth as a stroll in the park. The speedometer can sometimes show more whimsy than precision, and the maximum speed isn't designed for aspiring sprinters. Moreover, when it does have a hiccup, the noise can be quite disruptive, akin to a reversing truck in your lounge.
Compared to its rivals, this compact treadmill holds its own in terms of cost-effectiveness and aesthetics. It blends seamlessly into a home office setting, operating quieter than a tiptoeing rodent. Yet, remember to factor in its speed-related quirks and its not-so-rapid pace.
In conclusion, this treadmill is an affordable and unintrusive option for those needing a walk-and-work solution. It's a boon for those mindful of space and noise but bear in mind the speed limitations and its laid-back top pace. Perfect for those who simply want to stay active, but speed enthusiasts may want to look elsewhere.
- Compact and Portable Design: Users appreciate the treadmill's easy storage, portability, and compact design, making it ideal for home use.
- Quiet Motor: Customers praise the treadmill for its quiet motor, allowing for a peaceful workout experience without disturbing others.
- Fast Delivery: Many users are impressed with the fast delivery of the treadmill, ensuring quick access to the product.
- Easy Setup: Customers find the treadmill easy to set up, simply requiring plugging in, enhancing user convenience.
- Affordable Price: The treadmill is widely regarded as a great value for the price, offering an affordable option for home exercise.
- Inaccurate Speed: Some users express disappointment with the treadmill's speed not meeting the promised specifications, leading to a need for return.
- Error Mode Beeping: Several users encounter issues with the treadmill going into error mode and persistent beeping, causing frustration and inconvenience.
- Limited Top Speed: Some users find the top speed of the treadmill insufficient for their workout needs, leading to dissatisfaction with the product.
Fenghome Walking Pad Treadmill
This Fenghome Walking Pad Treadmill is perfect for home use, offering a durable, space-saving design with quiet operation. It's ideal for individuals looking for a reliable and convenient workout solution.
Check Latest PriceIntroducing an exercise solution that harmoniously blends into your everyday life - the whisper-quiet, robustly built, and space-efficient treadmill that's gentle on your joints. With a soft hum that won't disturb a sleeping baby, it's the epitome of a silent calorie killer. Plus, its foldable design and cloud-like shock absorption system make it an ideal choice for small spaces and sensitive knees.
However, it's not without drawbacks. The pace may seem a tad sluggish for speed enthusiasts, and the incline isn't particularly challenging for adrenaline seekers. The basic console and low handrails may also be points of contention for tech-lovers and tall runners respectively. And while compact, moving it might feel like a wrestling match with a mule.
When compared to rivals, it shines in its serenity and compactness, though it might fall short for those seeking high-tech consoles or challenging inclines. So, is it the right fit for you? If you're seeking a durable, quiet, and knee-friendly fitness companion for a small space, it's a match made in cardio heaven. But if you're chasing speed thrills or steep virtual climbs, you might want to explore other options.
- Durable and Reliable: Users praise the treadmill's robust construction and dependable performance.
- Space-Saving Design: Customers appreciate the compact and foldable nature for easy storage.
- Quiet Operation: Positive feedback on the treadmill's quiet and smooth functioning for undisturbed workouts.
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive controls and clear display make it easy to use for all fitness levels.
- Efficient Shock Absorption: Users value the treadmill's effective cushioning for reduced impact on joints.
- Limited Speed Range: Some users find the speed options restrictive for advanced training needs.
- Minimal Incline Settings: The limited incline range may not meet the requirements of serious incline training.
- Basic Console Features: Users desire more advanced tracking and entertainment options on the console.
HomeFitnessCode Folding Treadmill
This 2-in-1 foldable treadmill is perfect for small homes, offering quiet operation, sturdy construction, and Bluetooth connectivity. Suitable for users looking for a space-saving and home-friendly workout solution.
For those seeking a quiet, compact, and durable solution for indoor fitness, this treadmill ticks all the right boxes. It's an exercise wizard, designed to smoothly fold away - an ideal fit for cramped spaces. The silent operation is a boon, offering a tranquil workout experience. Robustly built, it's a resilient partner for your long-term fitness goals. The setup is straightforward, with the added bonus of a Bluetooth feature to keep your workout tunes flowing.
However, it's not without minor flaws. Some users have reported issues with the belt leaning to the left, disrupting the workout flow. The assembly instructions could benefit from added clarity. The metallic Bluetooth voice may not be to everyone's liking. The feature set is relatively basic, which might not satisfy those looking for a feature-packed machine.
When compared with its rivals, this treadmill stands out with its space-efficient design and silent operation. The Bluetooth feature is a neat addition, though the simplicity may not appeal to all. Despite minor issues with belt alignment, the overall user experience remains positively solid.
In conclusion, if you're in search of a straightforward, reliable, and space-saving treadmill that can effortlessly disappear post-workout, this is a worthwhile investment. Despite a few quirks, it shines with its simplicity and commitment to your home fitness routine.
- Compact and Space-saving Design: Fits in limited spaces, including under the sofa, making it ideal for small homes.
- Quiet Operation: Minimal noise, suitable for home use without disturbing others.
- Sturdy and Well-built: Durable and solid construction, ensuring long-term use.
- Easy Assembly: Straightforward and hassle-free assembly process, saving time and effort.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Ability to connect music via Bluetooth, enhancing the workout experience.
- Off-center Belt Alignment: Some users experienced a slight off-center belt alignment, affecting performance.
- Limited Instructions: Assembly instructions lacked detailed guidance on usage.
- Annoying Voice Prompt: Disruptive and irritating voice prompt during startup.
- Limited Workout Features: Some users desired additional workout features and functionalities.
Dskeuzeew Under Desk Treadmill
This walking pad treadmill is ideal for those seeking a space-saving fitness solution with a range of speeds, Bluetooth speaker integration, and easy storage capabilities. It's worth buying for its convenience and efficient design.
Imagine having a compact, home-based exercise solution that effortlessly fits into your life - meet a unique fitness innovation. This versatile treadmill is designed for those who prefer convenience; it slides under your bed post-workout with smooth-rolling wheels, eliminating the need for a dedicated gym space.
It offers not only a range of speed options, from a leisurely 1km/h to a vigorous 10km/h, but also a built-in Bluetooth speaker to keep your motivation levels high. Additionally, a remote control allows you to adjust your workout without breaking stride.
However, it's not all perfect. Adjusting the belt can prove to be a bit of a puzzle, and its lack of handrails at high speeds may pose a challenge for those less steady on their feet.
Compared to similar products, this treadmill excels with its user-friendly features, despite the belt adjustment learning curve and the potential balance concerns.
To conclude, if you're seeking a space-saving, easy-to-set-up fitness solution that offers a decent workout, this could be your ideal choice. Just be prepared to master the art of belt adjustment and the thrill of working out without handrails. Your fitness journey awaits, and it promises to be as seamless as this treadmill's operation.
- Compact and versatile design: Easily stored away, with wheels for mobility and a range of speeds for various workouts.
- Convenient features: Bluetooth speaker integration, remote control, and no installation required for immediate use.
- Quiet and sturdy build: Low noise level, sturdy build, and easy to use for daily workouts.
- Adjustment issues: Some users experienced difficulties with the belt slipping and needing frequent readjustment.
- Lack of handrails: The treadmill lacks handrails, posing a risk of losing balance and potential injury, especially at higher speeds.
Walden T800 Electric Treadmill
This compact treadmill is ideal for users with limited space. Its quick delivery and affordable price make it a worthwhile purchase for those seeking a space-saving fitness solution.
What we liked:
The Walking Pad Treadmill offers a compact size, making it ideal for smaller spaces, and its quick delivery and responsive customer service ensure a smooth purchase experience. The treadmill’s affordability combined with good quality makes it a cost-effective option for users.
What we didn't like:
However, some users experienced issues with faulty parts, leading to instability and the need for returns. Additionally, the limited language options in the manual were found inconvenient by some customers, requiring additional effort to obtain an English version.
How does it compare to similar treadmills?
Compared to other treadmills, the Walking Pad Treadmill stands out for its compact design and quick delivery. However, it falls short in terms of potential issues with faulty parts and limited language options in the manual.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Walking Pad Treadmill is a compact and affordable option, suitable for users with limited space. However, potential issues with faulty parts and language options should be considered before making a purchase.
- Great size: The treadmill's compact size is suitable for smaller spaces.
- Quick Delivery: Customers praise the quick delivery and responsive customer service.
- Decent price with great quality: Buyers value the affordable price combined with good quality.
- Faulty part: Some users experienced issues with faulty parts, leading to instability and the need for returns.
- Limited language options: Some customers found the lack of language options in the manual inconvenient.
COZYBRITE A1F Under Desk Treadmill
This COZYBRITE A1F Under Desk Treadmill is a space-saving and easy-to-use option, perfect for small rooms and individuals who value a quiet and durable workout experience.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
The Walking Pad Treadmill offers a sturdy build, providing users with a durable and reliable exercise platform. Its compact design is particularly noteworthy, making it an excellent space-saving solution for small rooms or home offices. Users also appreciate the quiet operation, allowing for a smooth and uninterrupted workout experience. Additionally, the treadmill's ease of use has been commended by many, as it provides a simple and straightforward exercise solution.
What we didn't like:
Despite its positive attributes, there are some drawbacks to consider. Some users have reported concerns about the flimsy construction of the treadmill, indicating that it may not be as sturdy as expected. The folding mechanism has also been highlighted as a potential issue, with users finding it challenging to fold down the handlebar due to the need to remove bolts and rubber washers. Furthermore, issues with damaged shipments and limited warranty coverage have been raised, impacting the overall user experience.
How does it compare to similar treadmills?
Compared to similar under-desk treadmills, the Walking Pad Treadmill stands out for its compact design, quiet operation, and user-friendly interface. However, potential buyers should consider the reported issues with construction quality, folding mechanism, and warranty coverage when comparing it to other options in the market.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Walking Pad Treadmill offers a sturdy, compact, and quiet exercise solution suitable for small spaces and home offices. However, potential buyers should be mindful of reported concerns regarding its construction quality and warranty coverage. This treadmill is recommended for users seeking a space-saving and easy-to-use exercise option, but caution is advised when considering its long-term durability.
- Sturdy Build: Users appreciate the treadmill's durability and sturdiness.
- Great Value: Customers find it to be an excellent purchase for the price.
- Quiet Operation: Users praise the treadmill for its quiet and smooth performance.
- Compact Design: Customers love the space-saving and compact design of the treadmill.
- Easy to Use: Users find the treadmill simple and straightforward to operate.
- Flimsy Construction: Some users reported the treadmill as being flimsy and not as durable as expected.
- Difficult Folding: Customers find it challenging to fold down the handlebar due to the need to remove bolts and rubber washers.
- Damaged Upon Arrival: Several users experienced receiving damaged treadmills with no resolution.
XEO HOME Walking Pad Treadmill
This XEO HOME Walking Pad Treadmill is ideal for compact spaces, offering a sturdy build, easy handling, and customizable exercise routines for power walking enthusiasts.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
The Walking Pad Treadmill XEO HOME boasts a compact and sturdy design, appealing to users looking for a reliable exercise companion. Its no-assembly-required feature adds convenience, and the easy-to-raise handle makes it user-friendly. The treadmill is well-suited for power walking, offering the right level of power, and its customizable exercise routines cater to individual fitness needs. Customers also find it to be good value for money.
What we didn't like:
Some users feel that the treadmill may have limited space for running, primarily suitable for walking. Additionally, there are concerns about the average app functionality and its suitability for running, as it's primarily designed for power walking.
How does it compare to similar treadmills?
Compared to similar under desk treadmills, the Walking Pad Treadmill XEO HOME stands out with its compact design and easy-to-use handle. However, users may find the running space limited, and the app functionality may not be as advanced as some competitors.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Walking Pad Treadmill XEO HOME is a reliable choice for individuals seeking a compact and sturdy under desk treadmill with convenient features. While it may not be ideal for running, it offers good value for money and customizable exercise routines, making it suitable for power walking and general fitness enthusiasts.
- Compact and Sturdy Design: Ideal for small spaces and offers a sturdy build for exercise.
- No Assembly Required: Delivered fully assembled, minimal setup needed.
- Easy to Raise Handle: Handle easy to raise, requiring only two thumb screws to tighten.
- Suitable for Power Walking: Offers the right level of power for power walking.
- Customizable Exercise Routines: Preset exercise routines on the app can be edited.
- Limited Running Space: May have limited space for running, suitable primarily for walking.
- Average App Functionality: App functionality is just okay, with room for improvement.
- Slightly Longer Dimensions: Some find the treadmill slightly longer than expected.
COSMO BUY Walking Pad Treadmill Running Foldable
This COSMO BUY walking pad treadmill is designed for compact living spaces and home gyms, offering a sleek, space-saving design. It is best suited for individuals looking for a space-efficient and quiet treadmill with convenient controls and safety features.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
The COSMO BUY Walking Pad Treadmill impresses with its compact and portable design, making it an excellent choice for users with limited space. Its quiet operation ensures a disturbance-free workout environment, and the convenient speed settings cater to various workout intensities. The responsive controls and safety features further enhance the overall user experience, providing a secure and user-friendly workout session.
What we didn't like:
Some users find the limited running surface of the COSMO BUY Walking Pad Treadmill to be restrictive for taller individuals or longer strides. Additionally, the basic display could offer more advanced features for enhanced workout tracking. The minimal incline options and lack of built-in programs may limit the versatility for users seeking more challenging workouts and varied routines. Furthermore, the limited weight capacity might not accommodate a broader range of users.
How does it compare to similar Walking Pad Treadmills?
Compared to other walking pad treadmills, the COSMO BUY model stands out with its space-efficient design, portability, and convenient storage. However, potential buyers should consider the limited running surface, basic display, and minimal incline options when comparing it to similar products in this category.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The COSMO BUY Walking Pad Treadmill offers a compact and quiet design with convenient controls and safety features, making it an ideal choice for home use. Users with space constraints or those seeking a discreet workout solution will appreciate its design. However, individuals looking for a more extensive running surface, advanced display features, and enhanced workout programs may want to explore other options in the market.
- Compact and Portable Design: Users appreciate the treadmill's easy storage and minimal visual impact in the room.
- Quiet Operation: Users value the treadmill's quiet motor, allowing for use without disturbance.
- Convenient Speed Settings: Users find the speed settings easy to adjust and suitable for various workout intensities.
- Responsive Controls: Users praise the treadmill's responsive and user-friendly control interface.
- Safety Features: Users commend the treadmill's safety features, promoting a secure and worry-free workout experience.
- Limited Running Surface: Some users find the treadmill's running surface to be somewhat restrictive for taller individuals or longer strides.
- Basic Display: Users note that the display screen could be more advanced or interactive for enhanced workout tracking.
- Minimal Incline Options: Some users desire more incline settings for a greater challenge during workouts.
HOMEFITNESSCODE Walking Pad Treadmill
This HOMEFITNESSCODE Walking Pad Treadmill is perfect for home and office use. With its compact design, shock absorbent features, and easy-to-fold mechanism, it's a great addition for those seeking a convenient and reliable treadmill.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
The HOMEFITNESSCODE Walking Pad Treadmill offers reliable performance, making it a favorite among users. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to store and transport, catering to those seeking convenience and portability. Additionally, the treadmill operates quietly, ensuring minimal disturbance in various settings. The inclusion of a convenient remote control allows for easy speed adjustments, enhancing the overall user experience. Its suitability for both adults and children makes it a versatile choice for families.
What we didn't like:
While the HomeFitnessCode Walking Pad Treadmill has received praise for its performance, some users have reported belt centering issues, requiring frequent adjustments. Additionally, concerns regarding belt stability over time and electrical malfunctions have been highlighted, impacting the overall user experience. The included assembly instructions have also been deemed insufficient by some users, posing a challenge during setup and adjustments.
How does it compare to similar treadmills?
Compared to similar treadmills, the HomeFitnessCode Walking Pad Treadmill stands out for its compact design, quiet operation, and convenient remote control. However, potential buyers should consider the reported issues related to belt stability and electrical malfunctions before making a decision.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The HomeFitnessCode Walking Pad Treadmill offers reliable performance and convenience, making it suitable for users seeking a compact and portable treadmill. Families, individuals looking for quiet operation, and those in need of easy speed adjustments will find this treadmill beneficial.
- Reliable Performance: Users appreciate the treadmill's consistent and reliable operation.
- Compact and Portable: Its lightweight and easy-to-fold design make it convenient for storage and transport.
- Quiet Operation: The treadmill operates quietly, suitable for various settings.
- Convenient Remote Control: Included remote control for easy speed adjustments.
- Suitable for All Ages: Families appreciate its suitability for both adults and children.
- Belt Centering Issues: Some users struggle with keeping the belt centered.
- Electrical Safety Concerns: Reports of electrical malfunctions posing safety hazards.
- Noise and Error Codes: Some users encountered excessive noise and recurring error codes during operation.
Walking pad buyer’s guide
Like the sound of mini treadmills? Here’s our full guide to help you pick the right one.
What is a walking pad?
The answer is simple. A walking pad treadmill is a treadmill that has been specifically designed for walking.
This means it has a low maximum speed and a smaller total area on the running deck. But what makes it specifically a walking pad treadmill is the fact that there is no guide rail or additional support.
Top 5 Benefits of walking pads
- Anyone can use them – Because of the low maximum speed and ease of use, anyone who can walk can easily use a walking pad treadmill to keep themselves mobile and their health and fitness up.
- Storage: Walkpads fit almost anywhere – Walking pad treadmills have a small footprint and profile, meaning that they can be stored almost anywhere in the home when not in use, as well as being able to be used whether you live in cramped student digs or a palatial mansion.
- You can use them at work – Work-life balance is hard and sitting down all day is not good for your body. A walking pad treadmill is an easy answer, switching any desk into a walking desk almost instantly. These machines don’t have sides and can slip under a standing desk to keep mobile at work and lose some extra calories.
- They’re incredibly quiet and unobtrusive – Most walking treadmills will have a working speed of around 30 to 40dB, which is around the level of a fan or air conditioner on low, so it won’t interfere with TV watching, conversation, or conference calls.
- Cheaper than full-scale treadmills – Smaller motors, fewer parts and less stress on the machine mean that you can pick up a good walking pad for very little money, making them an accessible fitness tool for almost everyone.
OK, so what are the negatives to walk pads?
These machines have their uses but they’re not suitable for everyone. What are the cons to picking up a walk pad?
- Don’t expect to get much of a run – Don’t let the product pictures fool you. The smaller form factor and the reduced power motor mean they’re not suitable for anyone in really good shape looking to jog or run.
- Lower user weight capacity – The average weight capacity for a walkpad is around the 110kg mark, depending on the product. While a lot of people will fall under that capacity, these machines are generally less robust and take far less weight than larger gym machines.
- Weaker motors – A decent running machine will have at least a 3HP motor but the walking pads have far less power, usually sub 1000w.
- Less padding on the belts – While they’ll have some form of padding, walk pads generally have less shock absorption than the full-size ones. That’s fine in most cases as there’s less impact as you won’t be running.
- Smaller walking surface –
- No inline setting – None of the pad-style machines I’ve seen has any kind of incline setting which is shame as when used on a regular machine, it makes for a much more realistic feel and can work off a lot more calories in less time.
Should I get a walk pad or a full-size treadmill?
Walking on a treadmill is nothing groundbreaking – go to any gym and you’ll see people of all ages and abilities using a £3000 treadmill to do some simple walking. What are the pros and cons of getting a full-size running machine vs one of these newer walking pads?
Walking pad FAQs
Still unsure if this kind of running machine is for you? Here are some quick-fire reader’s questions and answers. If you have anything that’s not answered on this page, email me (Tom) and I’ll get back to you. Or ask in the comments below. Thanks!
How fast can I go on a walking pad?
The upper-speed limit varies slightly between different brands but you can expect to go at a walking speed of up to 0.5km/h up to 6 – 7 km/h. The upper speed is likely going to be a brisk walk for most people. The average walking speed for people is around 5km/h and most walk pads will go a fair bit above that.
Can you put a walking treadmill on the carpet?
You can definitely put the walk pad on a carpet but the belt is quite close to ground level. It’s possible it could pick up some fluff from the carpet and build up over time. It might be better to find a hard floor in your home to do your running on. Another option is to get a treadmill mat to go under it though as this will make for a more padded surface and also protect your floor.
How do you use a walking pad?
Here are the steps to using one of these compact treadmills:
- Setup the pad where you’re planning to use it.
- Grab the hand remote and step onto the machine.
- Stand around midway in the centre of the track.
- Start the machine at the lowest speed and begin walking.
- Gradually increase speed to a comfortable walking pace.
- To stop using the machine, slow down gradually and then make sure it has fully stopped.
- Step off the machine to the side or back.
Can you run on a walk pad?
No. While the specs differ a great deal between these machines, with some offering a faster speed than others, if you’re buying one to use as a running machine, you’ll likely find it is not powerful enough to do this. These machines should be used for a good walking pace but nothing more than a light jog. anything more, pick up a decent treadmill.
How do you move them around?
There are wheels at the front of the treadmill which, when tipped upwards at an angle you can just wheel it around. They work on carpets and anyone should be able to move this machine around without too much trouble. You will have to bend to pick up one end of the treadmill to do this.
Can you go barefoot or wear your socks?
Yes, you can use this kind of machine without trainers on and they feel OK. The belts aren’t especially thick or padded so it feels more like walking on a floor with a thin carpet or mat. You’ll likely have a much comfier walk with some nice Skechers though.
Will I be able to keep my balance?
I think a lot of people see these treadmills without the sides and are understandably worried about whether they’re harder to use than the bigger gym style machines. There are three things I’d say if you like the look of these but are worried about your balance:
- Firstly, there are some in-between style machines that have raised sides that you can keep hold of while you get used to the treadmill’s motion. You can always lower these supports to the ground once you get used to the motion.
- They’re not as weird or difficult to walk on as you might think. Walk pads come with a hand-held remote control and the minimum speed they go at is such a slow pace that it’s easy to build up your walking pace gradually as you get used to it.
- You can move these machines around your home easily so putting them within reach of any kind of rail, wall, or table can give you something to keep hold of when practising walking, which helps get your balance.
Are walk pads safe for older users?
This kind of machine is a good choice for seniors who are not looking to run but need a reliable way to walk, regardless of the weather or conditions outdoors.
Final thoughts
Adding extra walking to your day has such a huge range of benefits that, if you can do it, you probably should.
A walking pad treadmill like this gives you the option to fit in an hour or two, as and when you need, at your absolute convenience. If you work from home, or even if you don’t, if you want to burn some extra calories and keep your heart healthy, there is no better way.
