As translators who usually sit at a desk and type for numerous hours a day, we know perfectly well how challenging it is to maintain an active lifestyle and prevent back pain. Obviously, any person working from home might relate to that. But how to do what you are supposed to do at work and make more steps daily? A solution that worked perfectly for me is under-desk treadmill, in my case WalkingPad S1 placed under an IKEA Trotten Sit/stand desk. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the advantages and disadvantages of this compact, under-desk treadmill, allowing you to make an informed decision about integrating it into your daily routine.
Advantages of the WalkingPad S1:
- Space Efficiency: The WalkingPad S1 is designed to fit seamlessly under your desk or couch, making it a fantastic option for those with limited space. Its sleek, foldable design ensures that it doesn’t compromise your workspace when not in use. Personally, I am folding it only for vacuuming as I have a separate desk for walking.
- Versatility: This treadmill offers various speed settings, allowing you to adjust the intensity of your workout or the speed of your walk to suit your fitness level and preferences. Whether you want a leisurely stroll or an invigorating power walk, the WalkingPad S1 has you covered. For translating, I use the 2 km/h setting, which is totally comfortable for fast typing or correcting errors when I proofread documents. My desk fits under the sloped ceiling, so everything feels very stable, when I walk (see my set up below).
- Quiet Operation: Traditional treadmills can be noisy, but the WalkingPad S1 is really quiet, making it an excellent choice for a shared workspace or a quiet home environment.
- Built-in Safety Features: Safety is a top priority, and this treadmill includes an intelligent sensor system that detects your position on the belt. If you step off or lose balance, it will automatically stop, minimizing the risk of accidents.
- App Integration: The WalkingPad app (KS FIT) syncs seamlessly with your device, allowing you to track your progress. After I year, I have 150 days of walking and 350 km.
Disadvantages of the WalkingPad S1:
- Limited Running Space: The compact design, while space-efficient, also means that the treadmill belt is narrower than traditional treadmills. This makes it more suitable for walking and light jogging rather than full-speed running.
- Weight Limitation: The WalkingPad S1 has a weight limit, typically around 220 pounds (100 kilograms). Users who exceed this weight may find it unsuitable for their needs.
- Price Tag: While the WalkingPad S1 offers a unique blend of features, it can be relatively expensive compared to traditional under-desk alternatives. However, it’s essential to consider the investment in your health and productivity.
- Learning Curve: Walking while working can be a bit tricky for some individuals initially. It may take some time to adjust to typing, reading, or conducting meetings while walking on the treadmill without losing focus. However, if you have plenty of meetings during the day I think you will find it very enjoyable to talk and walk at the same time. As a translator, I don’t have any problems with translating/proofreading in my CAT tools and I am a really fast typer.
- Maintenance: As with any piece of exercise equipment, the WalkingPad S1 requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity. Lubricating the belt, cleaning the device, and checking for loose parts are essential tasks to keep it in good condition.
Conclusion:
The WalkingPad S1 is a remarkable innovation for those looking to incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines without sacrificing productivity. Its space efficiency, versatility, and quiet operation make it an attractive option. However, its limitations, such as the weight capacity and narrower belt, should be considered before purchasing. If you prefer to run after work I would recommend buying bigger treadmill with a longer and wider belt.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in a desk treadmill like the WalkingPad S1 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value the convenience of exercising while you work or engage in other activities and are willing to make the necessary adjustments, it could be an excellent addition to your lifestyle. For me, it made a huge difference and I switch to it every day, when after 4 hours of work, I feel that my back starts to feel stiff or uncomfortable. I think that I am even more focused on my tasks when I walk, the steady rhythm feels like a meditation sometimes :). Nevertheless, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine whether it aligns with your fitness goals and space constraints.
You will find WalkingPad S1 on Amazon US (it’s an affiliate link, so if you feel that my review was useful to you I would be grateful for using it for your purchase):
