Walking Pad or Folding Treadmill? How to Choose for Home Cardio
When it is dark by late afternoon and the sidewalks are icy, indoor cardio stops being optional. The two most popular space-saving options are walking pads and folding treadmills. They look similar, but they are built for different jobs. Here is how to choose.
The short version
- A walking pad is for walking: slim, light and made to slide under a desk or sofa.
- A folding treadmill adds a console, a handlebar and jogging and running speeds.
- Want to jog or run? Choose the treadmill. Want to walk more during your day? Choose the walking pad.
What is a walking pad?
A walking pad is a low, compact belt without a tall console, with a top speed made for walking. It is designed to fit under a standing desk, so you can walk while you work, then slide it away when you're done.
Our Walking Pad Z1 has a 15.3 × 39 in walking area, speeds from 0.8 to 6 km/h, a foldable handle, an LED display, a safety lock and a non-slip surface. It weighs 44 lb and supports users up to 264 lb (120 kg).
What is a folding treadmill?
A folding treadmill is a full treadmill with an upright console and handlebar that fold down for storage. It is bigger and heavier than a walking pad, but it reaches running speeds and gives you something to hold on to.
Our Folding Treadmill X2 has a 15.7 × 48 in deck, speeds from 1.0 to 12.8 km/h, a 2 HP peak motor, touch controls, an LED screen and built-in heart rate sensors. It supports users up to 220 lb (100 kg) and folds to 48 × 20 × 26 in.
Side by side
| Walking Pad Z1 | Folding Treadmill X2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Walking, including at a desk | Walking, jogging and running |
| Speed | 0.8 to 6 km/h (0.5 to 3.7 mph) | 1.0 to 12.8 km/h (0.6 to 8 mph) |
| Walking area | 15.3 × 39 in | 15.7 × 48 in |
| Max user weight | 264 lb (120 kg) | 220 lb (100 kg) |
| Handlebar | Foldable handle | Upright console and handlebar |
| Footprint | 47.6 × 19.6 in, slim deck | 48 × 26 in, 56.7 in tall |
| Weight | 44 lb | 86 lb |
| Storage | Slides under a bed, sofa or desk | Folds to 48 × 20 × 26 in |
Which one should you choose?
Choose the walking pad if you...
- mainly want to walk more, especially during the workday;
- have a standing desk, or want to walk while you watch TV;
- need something light enough to move and put away every day;
- weigh up to 264 lb.
Choose the folding treadmill if you...
- want to jog or run, not just walk;
- prefer a console and handlebar in front of you;
- want heart rate readings from built-in sensors;
- weigh up to 220 lb.
Buying tips for any home treadmill
- Check the deck against your stride. Deck length matters more the faster you go. The X2's 48 in deck is compact, so tall runners with a long stride should keep that in mind.
- Respect the weight limit. It protects the motor and the belt.
- Measure where it will live, including the space it takes when folded or stored.
- Keep it indoors in a dry room at normal temperature. See getting your garage gym ready for winter.
- Put a mat underneath to protect the floor and cut vibration.
- Follow the manual for belt care. Keep the belt centred and clean, and lubricate it as the manual describes.
- Start slowly, and keep children and pets away while the belt is moving.
Make the most of indoor walking
- Walk during calls, meetings or your favourite show.
- Break it into short blocks, such as 10 minutes after each meal.
- Track your time or distance each week and add a little at a time.
- Add two or three short strength sessions a week with dumbbells for a well-rounded routine.
Frequently asked questions
Can you run on a walking pad?
No. The Walking Pad Z1 tops out at 6 km/h, which is a brisk walk. To jog or run, choose a treadmill.
Will a walking pad fit under my standing desk?
It is designed for standing desks. Check the floor space under your desk (the pad is about 48 × 20 in), and remember that the pad lifts you off the floor, so you will want the desk a little higher than usual.
How noisy are they?
Both are made for home use, and the walking pad is designed to run quietly enough to walk while you work. Any treadmill runs quieter on a mat, which also cuts vibration through the floor.
How are they delivered?
Shipping is calculated at checkout from the weight and your region, and US orders ship with duties included. You can also pick up for free at our Anjou (Montreal) warehouse by appointment.
