A few weeks ago, I heard a friend talking about her new walking pad that she got for her home office. As someone who works from home as a full-time web designer, I find it difficult to get in much “movement” outside of the gym. There’s no water cooler or meeting rooms to walk to, buildings to take a lap around, etc. And living in Georgia, the summer heat and humidity does not entice me to take lunch walks!
The research shows that using a treadmill desk can lead to walking about 2 additional miles per day compared to not using one. Plus, more research shows that regular use of walking pads can improve physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being.
So, I decided to try out a walking pad at home! I already have a standing desk from IKEA that I’ve used for a few years, so half my setup was already done. I’m about a week into having this walking pad and I LOVE IT. (Currently walking as I type this!)
I’ve shared my new walking pad and my daily walking habit on social media, but I thought I would give some more details below.
What is the difference between a treadmill and a walking pad?
Treadmills are bulkier, and more meant for running or workouts, with features like incline and programs. Walking pads are smaller, lighter, and focus on walking with a simpler design and lower price. Pick a treadmill for running or extensive features, a walking pad for space or light walking!
Are walking pads worth it?
I think it depends on your goals! For me, they are absolutely worth it. There are others who’ve seen great results:
“I got ours in Nov 2022, and walking a few hours a week combined with doing weight watchers, I lost 25 pounds over the span of a 5-6 months last year. So I didn’t lose the weight exclusively walking but it certainly helped.” – jegoist on Reddit
“I’ve been using a walking pad for months, and it’s been a game-changer in my sedentary desk routine. While it’s not a treadmill replacement for intense cardio, it’s perfect for staying active in a small space.” – rudecilantro on Reddit
How hard is it to setup the walking pad?
There was no setup other than taking the walking pad out of the box. The treadmill weighs around 50-60 pounds and comes in one piece. It has an off/on switch on the front, and plugs into the wall. It has rollers on the front, so you just pick up and slide it away if you need to sit and work. Since it’s like a traditional treadmill that needs to fold in half or anything, it’s very easy to move and store off to the side. The company also sent a small instructional brochure and oil to help maintain the walking pad.
Is it hard to use the walking pad and work simultaneously?
Personally, I don’t find it hard to walk on the walking pad at all. In fact, I think it’s actually helped me focus a little better. I think the key is to walk slower than you usually do. This is not a “gym workout” type of walk, but more of a leisurely stroll you take at the mall. It’s easier to sustain this type of pace for longer periods of time, and easier to work this way.
The research shows I’m not alone: users of treadmill desks have reported better focus, improved creativity, enhanced mood, and greater satisfaction with their work.
Can you take calls while walking on the walking pad? How loud is it?
Walking pad calls are probably possible at slower speeds with a headset, but trickier for focused conversations or video calls. I think it also depends on if it’s a 1:1 client call where you need to be more focused, or if it’s a group call where you can mute yourself for part of the meeting. Try it out first to see if it works for you!
A walking pad is typically quieter than a traditional treadmill, but I still turn it off during calls and meetings. It beeps when you turn it off/on. It comes with a remote too, which makes it easy to adjust speed, or turn it off and on.
How much do you use your walking pad during the day?
Since I’ve just started using it, I’m easing into my usage. Even though I go to the gym to workout 4-5 days a week, going from very few steps to 10,000 or more steps a day is a big jump. So, the first few days I would walk for about an hour in the morning and in the afternoon. It’s also important to have good shoes to wear all day, that will help alleviate any foot pain from walking so much–I’m partial to these Saucony shoes, but any gym shoe will work.
How long should I walk? How do you track steps while walking?
I would recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of walking per day, but work up to longer stretches as you are able! Some people are able to walk for hours and hours, others do small spurts of 30-45 minutes a few times throughout the day.
The walking pad does have a step counter on the screen, which is nice. But, if you’re like me, I wanted the steps to be counted by my Apple watch, too! I’ve tried using the “Indoor Walk” activity on my Apple Watch but it wasn’t very accurate. So, currently my solution is to attach my watch to my shoe and let it count while I walk. Hoping I can find a better option soon, though!
Best walking pad brands and options in 2025
The walking pad I bought is not the only option! There are several other options on Amazon:
- UREVO Walking Pad (my latest walking pad)
- GOYOUTH Walking Pad (this is the one I used to have!)
- UMAY Walking Pad (similar to above)
- WalkingPad Brand (this one folds in half)
- CitySports Walking Pad (one with highest ratings)
- Goplus 2-in-1 (if you want both a treadmill and walking pad)
Best walking pad accessories
- Walking pad mat (to go underneath the walking pad)
- Walking pad lubricant (can help reduce noise)
- Adjustable bike desk (if you’re needing a new desk to go with your walking pad)
- Weighted vests (if you want to get even more out of your walks!)
Advantages of walking pads with a weighted vest
1. Increased Calorie Burn: Research shows that walking with a weighted vest can elevate heart rate and intensity, leading to more calories burned without the high impact of running.
2. Enhanced Muscle Engagement: The added weight requires greater effort from core, leg, and back muscles, promoting strength and balance.
3. Improved Posture: Wearing a weighted vest encourages better posture by engaging stabilizing muscles to support the added weight.
4. Bone Density Benefits: Research shows that the added resistance from a weighted vest can help improve bone density, offering benefits similar to those of jogging.
Final thoughts: is a walking pad worth it for remote workers in 2025?
If you’re working from home and feeling stuck in your chair all day, a walking pad might be your new favorite coworker. I’ve only been using mine for a week, but I’m already seeing a boost in energy, focus, and daily movement. It’s not a substitute for the gym — but it is a powerful way to sneak in extra steps without overhauling your routine. And if you’re like me, working in a hot and humid climate? This is a game-changer.
*There are Amazon affiliate links within this post, which means I will make a small commission if you purchase through my link! I appreciate your support.
