Struggling to get your steps in in the extreme heat? Don’t beat yourself up: Try a walking pad instead. Also known as an under-desk treadmill, it’s a portable machine that lets you get some movement from the comfort of your air-conditioned home. If you’re curious about trying one of these home devices for yourself, we just spotted a popular model from the brand Yagud currently on sale for less than $100.
That’s a bargain for what one reviewer deems as a savior during “very hot days,” and what another calls a “game-changer” for their health by keeping them active and per several reports, even easing back and leg pain. (According to multiple previous HuffPost reports, there is indeed a correlation between walking and back pain relief, so these reviewers’ reports are expert-backed!)
Whether you stick it under your standing desk or use it in front of your TV, reviewers say this handy pad has inspired them to be more consistently active, and in doing so, feel better in their bodies.
After spending “almost a year” debating about getting this pad, one reviewer finally did it, calling the treadmill “a blessing” and crediting their walking routine with easing their chronic back pain, which persisted even after they changed their mattress.
“All of a sudden, it hit me that I haven’t been having back pain anymore,” they wrote. “The only thing that has changed is that I’ve been walking a lot more, so I’m convinced it was due to not being active enough!
The pad weighs only 35 pounds (with a capacity of 265 pounds) and goes up to 3.8 miles per hour. Easy to use out of the box, it also comes pre-assembled with a non-slip belt for steady movement, plus a silicone layer to reduce impact on knees, ankles and joints.
Several users say this pad fits underneath their beds and sofas for easy storage. The wheels make it simple to move around the home, while the quiet running sound makes it un-disruptive during the day. (Though some mention the treadmill demanding an extension cord or a plastic under-mat, so it won’t overheat on a carpet.)
The LED display gives real-time numbers on your time, distance, steps and more, while the remote control lets you adjust the speed as you’re moving.
“The speed goes up to 3.8 mph which at first I thought that was kinda low, but it’s actually perfect,” one review said. “I walk at 3.0 and work my way up to 3.5, I walk at least 1 mile, but aim for 2 most mornings (3 total for the day) and I work up a huge sweat.”
Overall, users say having this pad has inspired them to be more active, especially when they don’t want to go outside.
Still need a little more info? Read on for more promising reviews from walkers and runners happy with their Yagud walking pad.
“This has been a wonderful purchase. I am 6′1″ and weigh 250 lbs. I had a problem with my foot and for recovery I was recommended to walk. In the heat of summer you can’t go out, but with this purchase I can walk as much as I want at home. Excellent machine.” — Edgar de la vega
“Since using this walking pat treadmill, I have noticed an increase in my energy levels and productivity. It allows me to stay active even when I don’t have time to go to the gym during a busy workday. It also helps reduce the stiffness and back pain I previously had from sitting all day.” — Taylor
“You can’t beat the price or the quality of this treadmill. I’m a very active 70 year old female and in South Florida the heat in the summer keeps you from exercising outside. I’ve looked on Amazon it’s so many treadmills but the cost was just prohibitive and the size and weight was prohibited. I came across this treadmill and thought well I’ll give it a try especially after I saw so many good reviews. The the manufacturing team and workers in the plant have come together to create a very well made piece of equipment.” — Road Carver
“I was apprehensive purchasing this walking pad because of some reviews saying the belt keeps moving to one side and it overheats.
But if you follow instructions it works like a charm. Don’t use it on medium to high pile carpet. The motor will overheat. (There are plastic mats you can get to avoid that). If the belt moves to one side it’s no big deal. It’s super easy to adjust and the instructions are clear. Make sure you lubricate the belt as recommended (even a bit before you start your first walk). Keep in mind this isn’t your “Gym/Cardio” treadmill. It’s a walking pad designed to keep you moving at a pretty good pace while working at your standing desk.
I keep it at 2.3 and can still type etc. If I attend webinars or trainings (where all I have to do is watch and listen) I crank her up to 3.3 or full speed 3.8. It’s been a game changer. Less lower back pain and overall more mobility and energy.” — TB“Ive been using this treadmill for 2 weeks now, and it has been so good for my hip flexors and leg pain. Its so quiet and very easy to store away after use. Definitely recommend.” — Nicole
“I am very happy with this product. It came very well packed. Worked right out of the box. Has a time, distance, speed and calories information on the display. Came with little bottles to oil the mechanism as time goes by. I am so glad I chose to purchase. If I had to make one change it would be to make the signal sound it makes when I flip the switch; it has a high pitch that is loud enough to wake the dead. The little light in the switch is sufficient to indicate their is power to the pad. Besides that I LOVE IT!
Side note, I did opt for the insurance but never received any email or information on it. Something I will pursue separately as it has nothing to do with the product which serves my purpose 100%.” — Sharon K.
The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)