Are Walking Pads or Treadmills the Better Fit?
This article was authored by iFIT and contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase a product after clicking a link, iFIT may earn commissions.
Walking more is one of the best ways to commit to a healthier lifestyle. And having a walking pad or treadmill at home means you’re far more likely to make it a habit.
But with so many on the market, where should you start? To help you decide which option is best for your fitness routine, we’ve compared five top products across both categories.
Sperax 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
This affordable model offers the best of both worlds. The collapsible handrail means you can go from workout to working by sliding it under your desk. And the lightweight frame is super quick and easy to store when you’re done.
With a 2.5-horsepower motor and max speed of 6.2mph, you can build up to a decent pace, but no incline option means you’re limited on workout options.
This entry level model has a space-saving design, but still boasts a roomy belt size and impressive weight capacity of 280lbs, making it great value for money.
Check Amazon for the latest price.
HCCsport 3-in-1 Treadmill with Incline
This multitasking marvel gives you three uses in one. Use it as a standard treadmill with the handrails and real-time display. Slot on the removable desk with foldable tablet holder for an instant workstation. Or collapse it all down and slide it under your own desk to use as a walking pad.
With a powerful 3.5-horsepower motor, top speed of 8mph and incline of up to 6%, this budget option offers workout options to rival some heftier treadmills – in a more lightweight and portable model.
Check Amazon for the latest price.
ProForm Carbon TL
Traditional treadmills may not be as compact as walking pads, but they make up for it in durability and innovation.
The ProForm Carbon TL’s 2.6-horsepower motor and cushioned deck mean it’s ideal for endurance runs. And with an optional iFIT subscription, automatically optimize speed and incline for your fitness targets.
iFIT also gives you access to personal coaching experiences, and thousands of live and on-demand classes from elite trainers in beautiful locations around the world. Just connect your own device to the treadmill and experience personalized training from iFIT.
While bigger than a walking pad, the foldable SpaceSaver™ design makes for easy storage. Plus, it comes with a 10-year frame warranty and one-year parts and labor warranty.
Check Amazon for the latest price.
NordicTrack T Series
Similar to the ProForm TL in terms of price, the T Series are versatile all-rounders.
While simple in design, the T Series 5 can handle high-demand workouts thanks to a 3-horsepower motor and an impressive 300lbs weight capacity.
You can also choose to subscribe to iFIT with the terrain-matching SmartAdjust feature. And unlike with many walking pads, there’s a generous 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty and one-year labor warranty.
Check Amazon for the latest price.
Horizon Fitness T101
This brand’s best-selling treadmill is feature-packed with intuitive EasyDial controls, Bluetooth connectivity, a super-quiet motor and five preset training programs ideal for beginners.
Its three-zone cushioning varies the flex and support for every phase of your stride, making it ideal for all fitness levels. Plus the FeatherLight design with its one-step hydraulic folding system makes storing it a breeze.
With extras including a fan, tablet rack and water bottle holder, this packs all the convenience of a top-end treadmill into an affordable, user-friendly package.
Check Amazon for the latest price.
Conclusion
Deciding between a walking pad and a traditional treadmill depends on your fitness needs, space constraints and budget.
If you enjoy more intense runs, go for a treadmill with higher speed and incline. But if space-saving design and portability are important, a walking pad is the perfect fit. With some models combining the best of both worlds, you’re sure to find one that will set you on a healthier path.