Walking Pads Help People Move More While Working

Many people now use small treadmills called walking pads under their desks. These help them walk and move their bodies while they work. This is a good way to be more active and sit less during the day.
By Newsroom | Health, Technology |

Workday Sedentariness Addressed by Under-Desk Treadmills

For individuals whose professional lives necessitate prolonged periods of sitting, under-desk treadmills and walking pads have emerged as a solution to integrate physical movement. These devices aim to transform static work hours into opportunities for walking, thereby addressing concerns about sedentary lifestyles. The growing popularity of these machines suggests a desire to combat the health implications associated with extended inactivity. Questions arise regarding their practical utility, safety, and efficacy in supporting movement goals during the workday.

Overview of Under-Desk Treadmills and Walking Pads

Under-desk treadmills, also known as walking pads, are compact treadmills designed to fit beneath a standing desk or workstation. They typically operate at slower speeds suitable for walking rather than running.

The best walking pads and under-desk treadmills, tried and tested to turn your workday into a workout - 1

  • Purpose: To enable users to walk or move while working at a desk, increasing daily step counts and reducing sedentary time.

  • Design: Often foldable and compact for easier storage, with some models featuring adjustable handlebars for added stability.

  • Operation: Controlled via a remote or a connected app, allowing for speed adjustments and progress tracking.

  • Distinction from Traditional Treadmills: Generally smaller, lighter, and designed for walking, with lower maximum speeds and less robust features compared to full-sized treadmills.

Key Features and Considerations for Walking Pads

When evaluating walking pads, several factors merit attention to ensure suitability for a work environment and individual needs.

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  • Safety Features: While specific features vary by model, safety is a recurrent theme. It is essential to ascertain the presence of emergency stop mechanisms or other safety protocols.

  • Electricity Usage: The energy consumption of these devices is a practical consideration for many users.

  • Weight Capacity: Models are designed to support a range of user weights, with specified maximum capacities.

  • Dimensions and Portability: Compact designs and foldable features are emphasized for integration into home or office spaces.

  • Noise Level: A quiet operation is crucial for maintaining a conducive work atmosphere. Many are described as "whisper quiet."

ModelMaximum Weight CapacitySpeed RangeIncline RangeFoldableNoise LevelNotable Features
Urevo Strol 2E265 pounds0.6-6.2 mphNoneNoWhisper quietOptional handlebar, sturdy, easy setup, shorter belt, not third-party app compatible.
Sunny Health & Fitness Active 400300 pounds1-9 mph0-8.5%YesWhisper quietVirtual walking tours (SunnyFit app), auto-adjusting incline, takes up more space.
GoPlus TreadmillNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedYesNot specifiedCompact design fits under standing desks.
Pacer Smart Compact TreadmillNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedYesNot specifiedFoldable, compact design for easy storage.
Egofit TreadmillNot specifiedMax 3.1 mphNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedDesigned for comfortable walking speeds.
Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk ElectricNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedYesNot specifiedPowerful, transportable, relatively low cost.
RHYTHM Fun Under Desk TreadmillNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedCited as a compact option.
InMovement UnSit Under Desk TreadmillNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedNot specifiedDesigned for walking the full width of a desk.
WalkingPad P1 FoldableNot specified0.5–3.7 mphNot specifiedYesNot specifiedFoldable design, dimensions ~32 x 21.5 in. when folded.

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Note: "Not specified" indicates information was not available in the provided summaries.

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Efficacy in Enhancing Daily Activity

The integration of walking pads into the workday is posited to offer tangible benefits for physical activity.

  • Increased Step Count: Users report achieving higher daily step goals, with some aiming for 10,000 steps or more, by utilizing these devices during work hours.

  • Combating Sedentary Behavior: For individuals spending significant time at a desk, walking pads provide an avenue to increase movement and reduce prolonged sitting.

  • Productivity Link: Some users and experts suggest a potential increase in productivity, possibly linked to enhanced focus or reduced afternoon slumps.

  • Versatility: The devices can be used during work tasks or during breaks, offering flexibility in how movement is incorporated.

Considerations for Different User Needs

The choice of an under-desk treadmill may be influenced by specific user requirements and preferences.

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The best walking pads and under-desk treadmills, tried and tested to turn your workday into a workout - 3

  • Stability and Support: Models with optional handlebars are recommended for users seeking additional stability.

  • Space Constraints: Compact and foldable designs are advantageous for smaller living or working spaces.

  • Fitness Goals: For those looking for more than just walking, some models offer higher speed ranges or convertible designs that can accommodate light running.

  • Technological Integration: Features like app connectivity for tracking workouts or virtual walking tours cater to users who prefer data-driven or immersive experiences.

Expert Perspectives on Under-Desk Treadmills

Professionals in health and fitness offer insights into the utility of these devices.

"For people that are typically sitting at their desk for eight hours a day, but they're looking to get some sort of activity in, [a walking pad is] something that I recommend so they can kill two birds with one stone." - Julianne Lane, DPT, C.S.C.S.

"You might also observe your productivity increase after using an under-desk treadmill." - Jane VanderVoort, certified personal trainer

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Experts emphasize that key considerations when selecting a unit include design, safety features, and speed capabilities.

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Conclusion: Evaluating the Role of Walking Pads

Under-desk treadmills and walking pads present a practical method for individuals to increase physical activity during their workday, thereby mitigating the health risks associated with prolonged sitting. The variety of models available offers options catering to different needs, from compact designs for limited spaces to those with advanced features for dedicated users. Evidence suggests they can contribute to higher step counts and offer a convenient way to integrate movement into daily routines.

Further investigation into the long-term health impacts, comparative energy efficiency across models, and user adherence rates would provide a more comprehensive understanding of their role in promoting active lifestyles.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is an under-desk treadmill?
It is a small treadmill that fits under your desk so you can walk while you work.
Q: Why do people use them?
They help people move more and sit less during long work hours.
Q: Are they noisy?
Many models are designed to be very quiet so they do not disturb work.
Q: Can I run on them?
Most are made for walking at slow speeds, not running.
Q: Are they safe?
Look for models with safety features like emergency stops. Always use them carefully.