Our team of fitness experts and certified personal trainers reviewed more than a dozen models to find the best walking pads (sometimes called under-desk treadmills) to help keep you moving. While walking pads don’t pack all the power of full-sized machines, they fit comfortably under a standing desk or in an office corner, and can help boost your physical activity by making it more convenient to get your steps in. For 2024, our favorite is the WalkingPad P1 Folding Treadmill due to it’s wide walking platform and speed range.
The best under-desk treadmills and walking pads include our overall favorite, the WalkingPad P1 … [+] Folding Treadmill.
In addition to our top pick, we’ve tracked down five equally worthwhile machines by evaluating their size, weight, speed, capacity and overall performance. Some have incline capabilities for a more intense workout, while others are lightweight and portable to easily move out of the way when you’re not using them. We also know that fitness equipment can be a big investment, so we’ve curated the best walking pad deals to shop now. If you prefer a full-sized machine, we have recommendations for the best treadmill for walking, too.
WalkingPad
WalkingPad P1 Folding Treadmill
Dimensions: 56.3 x 21.5 x 5 inches (unfolded), 32.5 x 21.5 x 5 inches (folded) | Walk surface: 47.2 x 16.5 inches | Weight: 62 pounds | Speed: 0.5 to 3.75 mph | Max load: 220 pounds
Pros:
- Folding design saves space
- Large walking surface promotes a confident stride
- 62-pound net weight boosts portability
- Remote control features an easy-to-read display
Cons:
- Folding belt may influence long-term reliability
The WalkingPad P1 looks and functions like many other under-desk treadmills on this list, but it earns our top spot for its space-saving design that folds in half—a feature you’ll grow fond of in a studio apartment or small office space. And yet, the pad’s ability to collapse doesn’t hinder its performance—with a top belt speed of 3.75 mph, it still promotes a brisk walking pace that allows you to work up a sweat. The platform is also big enough to ensure you won’t worry about falling off when you’re in a meeting.
This model does lack the ability to incline, but because incline isn’t a top priority while you’re working, it doesn’t deduct any points in our eyes. And because it weighs only 62 pounds and features a small set of wheels in the front, moving it from one space to the next requires little effort.
What our editors say: “While the P1 only supports up to 220 pounds, it’s difficult to overstate just how practical it is,” says gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who holds a degree in kinesiology. “The pad’s ability to fold in half makes it so incredibly useful whether you’re working from home and storing it in a closet or leaving it under your desk at the office. And with a top speed of 3.75 mph, it’s one of the faster models on this list, but it’s still reasonably priced at around $400.”
Amazon
Egofit Pro M1 Treadmill
Dimensions: 38.4 x 21.9 x 6.9 inches | Walk surface: 34.25 ×16.54 inches | Weight: 48.5 pounds | Speed: 0.6 to 3.1 mph | Max load: 220 pounds
Pros:
- Compact footprint saves space
- Lightweight design makes it easy to move
- Fixed incline adds another level of intensity to your walks
Cons:
- Smaller max load
- Some users might not want a fixed incline
The small and lightweight Pro M1 is the latest under-desk treadmill from Egofit. Built on a fixed 5% incline, it helps you burn more calories than you would when walking on a flat surface. An open front end prevents you from kicking a front plate and tripping as you walk, while the integrated display shows your progress.
The motor and walking platform create a moderate 70 decibels of noise on max speed, so it’s not too loud for phone or Zoom calls. The Pro M1 comes fully assembled and ready to use—just take it out of the box and plug it in. Due to its lightweight, compact design, the treadmill is easy to move and at 48.5 pounds, you can even travel with it if there’s room in the trunk. Built-in wheels on the front of the under-desk treadmill make for easy maneuverability around your office or home.
What our editors say: “It’s rare to see an under-desk treadmill with solid incline capabilities. I like that the Egofit comes already built on a fixed incline, which is great for simulating walking outside or uphill. This means you can get a more effective workout in a shorter period of time—ideal for those looking to get the most out of your under-desk treadmill,” says Katie Simpson, certified personal trainer (CPT) and Forbes Vetted senior strategy editor.
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InMovement
InMovement Unsit Treadmill
Dimensions: 39 x 56 x 8.9 inches | Walk surface: 30 x 40 inches | Weight: 162 pounds | Speed: 0.3 to 2.0 mph | Max load: 400 pounds
Pros:
- Compact yet wide footprint promotes usable space
- Controls on the desk make it easy to change settings
- Integrated levelers and wheels
Cons:
- As expensive as a traditional high-end treadmill
The Unsit treadmill from InMovement features a wider, more efficient footprint so you can use the entirety of your desk while walking, yet the shorter length doesn’t take up a ton of room in your office. A simple desk-mounted controller lets you turn the belt on or off, or adjust the speed, with one click, while the Unsit smartphone app tracks both walking and standing stats to monitor your progress.
The under-desk treadmill remains smooth and quiet at slow speeds so as not to disturb colleagues or neighbors, nor is it a nuisance when on phone or video calls. The auto-stop feature kicks in as soon as you step off for added safety, and while the treadmill is heavy, it features integrated wheels on the front to move it around much like a wheelbarrow.
What our editors say: “While some under-desk treadmills can be bulky or cumbersome to finesse under your desk, the InMovement’s compact design makes set-up a breeze,” says Simpson. “The wider belt and desk-mounted controller also make for a more intuitive design, so you can speed up or slow down easier. The one downside to this machine is that it only goes up to 2 mph. I typically recommend walking at a speed of at least 2.5 mph for a more effective form of low-impact movement.”
Amazon
Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill
Dimensions: 50 x 21.5 x 6.5 inches | Walk surface: 39 x 14 inches | Weight: 55.1 pounds | Speed: 0.5 to 3.75 mph | Max load: 220 pounds
Pros:
- Slim profile stores away in tight places
- Lightweight at 55 pounds
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Loud motor might disturb other colleagues or neighbors
At $300, the Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill presents itself as an exceptional value for money. The thin, portable design can be stored away almost anywhere, and that includes hiding it beneath a sofa after you finish your work day. A large, built-in digital monitor at the front of the under-desk treadmill lets you keep track of your time, speed, calories burned, steps and distance. Plus, the built in shock absorbers cut down on noise and the amount of force transferred to your joints.
The under-desk treadmill will automatically pause when it senses you’ve stepped off and if you don’t return within 10 minutes, it will switch into power-saving mode. Transportation wheels make for easy portability—simply tilt the design up and roll it to your desired location.
What our editors say: “Most under-desk treadmills don’t have a built-in monitor. However, most people enjoy the ability to track their progress—the visual component is motivating, which makes the Sunny Health & Fitness a great choice for those who are motivated by seeing their stats,” shares Simpson.
Walmart
Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Dimensions: 52 x 27 x 5 inches | Walk surface: 16 x 40 inches | Weight: 69.5 pounds | Speed: 0.6 to 7.5 mph | Max load: 265 pounds
Pros:
- Lightweight design for a dual-purpose treadmill
- Max load supports various body shapes
- Excellent value for budget-minded shoppers
Cons:
- Not incredibly sturdy at high running speeds
The Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill can be used as both a traditional running treadmill and an under-desk treadmill for walking while you work. When the riser is folded away, the under-desk treadmill operates at a speed of 0.6 to 2.5 mph, and when the riser is up, it operates at speeds up to 7.5 mph for light running. The 2.25-horsepower motor is not only powerful, but ultra-quiet so as not to disturb others.
A phone holder on the riser lets you tune into entertainment while you jog, or you can connect the treadmill’s built-in speakers to your phone to play music during your workout. Detachable armrests add an extra layer of support and the unit comes with a remote control for basic operation.
What our editors say: “This is a great option for those looking for an under-desk treadmill that doubles as a standard treadmill. While I don’t recommend walking above 3.5 to 4 mph when working for safety reasons, the Goplus is great for those who prefer at-home workouts—simply push the riser up and you can run to your heart’s content,” says Simpson.
Amazon
Lifepro PacerMini Walking Pad
Dimensions: 32.7 x 25 x 7 inches | Walk surface: 27.6 x 15.7 inches | Weight: 40 pounds | Speed: 0.5 to 3 mph | Max load: 220 pounds
Pros:
- Lightweight at 40 pounds to boost portability
- Slight incline adds a challenge to every walking session
- Included remote makes it easy to control belt speed
Cons:
- Small walking surface may pose a challenge while working
The Lifepro PacerMini walking pad stands out as the ultimate choice for those seeking portability and versatility. Weighing a mere 40 pounds, it offers unparalleled ease of transportation, effortlessly transitioning from one room to another, or accompanying you on your commute from home to office and back again. The lightweight design ensures that you can seamlessly integrate movement into your day, whether you’re working remotely or navigating an irregular work schedule.
Featuring a top speed of 3 mph, it promotes caloric expenditure when you might otherwise be sedentary, and a 7-degree incline adds to the workout intensity.
What our editors say: “Realistically, I don’t expect someone to haul the PacerMini to the office every single day, but its lightweight design does make it more likely that you’ll want to pull it out and actually use it,” notes Vigliotta. “Add to that a reasonable 3-mph max speed and seven-degree incline, and you’re looking at a versatile fitness tool that promotes consistent, daily activity.”
Walmart
LifeSpan Fitness TR1200 Treadmill
Dimensions: 28.5 x 63 x 7.25 inches | Walk surface: 20 x 50 inches | Weight: 115 pounds | Speed: 0.4 to 4.0 mph | Max load: 350 pounds
Pros:
- Quiet operation reduces unwanted noise
- Sturdy platform pairs with a powerful motor
- Wide walking surface makes it easy to work and step
- Large max load capacity
Cons:
- Big price tag
- Heavy design
- Often out of stock
The LifeSpan TR1200 under-desk treadmill couples a long and wide belt with a low maximum speed to enable you to work comfortably while walking. Its small, portable console sits discreetly on your desk to display your progress (including steps, time, distance, calories burned and speed), and features two large buttons to quickly adjust the treadmill settings. Overall, the machine is quiet yet powerful with impact-absorbing shocks that dampen footstep noise and a built-in safety system that detect when you’re not on the belt. The biggest downside (and why it’s an honorable mention instead of a featured pick): The LifeSpan TR1200 is frequently out of stock, making it difficult to get your hands on.
What our editors say: “Although this option from LifeSpan is pricey, it’s a smart investment if you plan on using an under-desk treadmill on a daily basis,” says Simpson. “The 350-pound weight is a good sign that this treadmill can withstand more wear and tear than most other options on the market, plus it can reach speeds up to 4 mph, which is great for those looking to up their intensity.”
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
We’ve published a collection of gear articles on a variety of fitness equipment and home gym essentials. All our treadmill guides, from the best treadmills for home to the best manual treadmills, are backed by the expertise of our editors and writers.
- Forbes Vetted contributor Amy Jurries is a frequent walker and backpacker who’s trekked all over the globe, including on the Navarino Island in Chile. She’s also previously covered the best treadmills for walking.
- Gear editor Cam Vigliotta holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and regularly reviews the latest fitness equipment, including treadmills. He works alongside senior strategy editor and certified personal trainer Katie Simpson to maintain this guide.
- Dr. Michael Greger, author of How Not to Die, gave us insight into how walking pads and under-desk treadmills can boost your overall health.
- Our recommendations are regularly reevaluated to make sure we provide the most accurate advice. This guide was last updated in June 2024 by gear updates writer Alexandra Garrett to reflect the latest pricing and availability.
How We Chose The Best Walking Pads And Under-Desk Treadmills
To find the best walking pads and under-desk treadmills, we researched reputable brands and leaned into the expertise of our fitness team to evaluate each model’s advantages and disadvantages.
- We determined which exercise equipment brands offer top-rated under-desk treadmills. We considered the likes of LifeSpan, InMovement, Egofit and others mentioned above.
- We tapped Vigliotta and Simpson’s fitness experience to evaluate which under-desk treadmills offer an ideal balance of size, speed range, power and—most importantly—safety features.
- Because every fitness goal is unique, we made sure to include options with outstanding customer reviews to suit different needs and budgets.
What To Consider When Shopping For A Walking Pad
Like all modern fitness equipment, walking pads can make for a pricey investment, which is why it pays to consider what you’re looking for before you pick one up. Below, you’ll find the most important variables to consider.
Treadmill Size
Perhaps the most important quality that separates walking pads from their bigger counterparts is size. Because under-desk treadmills need to actually fit under your desk, they should be effective without overcrowding your work station. Keep in mind that you may need to move your walking pad now and again, so it should also be lightweight and portable. Some models can even be folded to save additional space when they’re not in use.
Speed Range
The speed range of a treadmill should meet your desired walking pace. Most walking pads have speeds ranging from 0.5 to 3.5 mph, which is considerably slower than full-size treadmills, but it’s fast enough to promote movement without distracting you from the tasks at hand.
Weight Capacity
The treadmill you choose should be able to support your body weight without compromising stability. Because walking pads are a bit smaller, they don’t offer the same weight capacities found on full-size treadmills. All options on this list support up to 400 pounds.
Safety Features
Side rails and emergency stop features bolster the safety factor. While most walking pads don’t come with side rails (these would take up too much space), many offer an automatic stop function that immediately shuts the belt off when you step off or lose your balance.
Price And Value
Set a budget and compare features to ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment. There’s no sense in overpaying for a treadmill if it blows your budget out of the water, or if you use it once and leave it in your closet for the rest of eternity.
Traditional Treadmills Vs. Under-Desk Treadmills And Walking Pads
Some might wonder what the difference is between an under-desk treadmill and a traditional treadmill. Under-desk and walking pad versions are lighter and traditionally easier to move and store than full-sized treadmills, making them better for tight spaces. Unlike conventional treadmills, there’s often no eye-level display to monitor speed, heart rate and distance.
In addition, under-desk treadmills and walking pads feature lower max speeds with fewer features but in return, they’re more portable and have a smaller footprint, making them a solid choice for those working in apartments or home offices. Walking pads also come in a variety of configurations, some of which feature built-in desks, while other folding treadmill options store under a bed when they’re not in use to save space. Under-desk treadmills and walking pads are generally less expensive than standard treadmills, too, though the more feature-rich options can get pricey.
Under-desk treadmills and walking pads are great for walking and slow jogs but not much beyond that. Most under-desk treadmills don’t have safety handles, while some do; handles are usually there for stability when moving at higher speeds. With that being said, the average speed of a treadmill is between 0.5 to 12 mph, while under-desk and walking pad options usually max out at 4 mph.
Is A Walking Pad Worth It?
For those who don’t want to invest in a standard treadmill or don’t have the space to do so, a walking pad is a solid alternative. Dr. Michael Greger, author of How Not to Die, remarks that “under-desk treadmills are a great way to get some exercise without having to leave your desk. They’re a convenient and easy way to get in some extra steps, and they can help to improve your overall health.”
Can You Lose Weight Using An Under-Desk Treadmill?
Using an under-desk treadmill can contribute to weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and overall healthy lifestyle. However, the amount of weight lost will vary depending on factors like diet, exercise intensity and metabolism. Keep in mind that sustainable weight loss also requires consistency and dedication to long-term healthy habits.
