Most people don't walk enough. Sure, serious fitness enthusiasts make sure to get their 10,000 steps in each day, but many of us simply don't come close most days.
My fun fact of today is that the magic '10,000 steps' target isn't actually backed by science, but was arbitrarily invented by a Japanese pedometer company in the 1960s — but even though the number isn't a scientific target, moving more is rarely a bad thing.
You can use one of the best smartwatches or best fitness trackers to keep track of your steps and motivate yourself to hit the extra goal. But if it's too cold or hot to go outside, or you're inside with no reason to leave, it can be very easy to let those cardio goals slide. People give up on running regimes or pay for unused gym memberships when what they need is an easy, accessible, low-impact way to keep or stay fit.
- Browse the full Amazon Prime Day sale
Step forward, walkingpads, otherwise known as under-desk treadmills. These slim cardio machines are easy to store, often cheap to buy (especially on Amazon Prime Day), and have become very popular on TikTok. Ideal for beginners or those looking for a gentler introduction to fitness, here's a trio of science-backed reasons to get one, along with a bunch of Amazon Prime Day deals on walkingpads in the US and UK.
1. You can watch TV while you walk
If you were going to catch up with your favorite shows while lounging on the sofa, now you can use that time to get your cardio in. Simply wheel the machine out from behind the sofa, under the bed, or wherever it's stored, plug it in, and switch on the TV.
Research published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that 'TV viewing, regardless of whether the programming is self-selected or standardized, associates with greater enjoyment of exercise'. If you find the exercise process enjoyable, you'll keep coming back to it; walking in front of one of the best streaming services might be a perfect way to get started. Try walking for the duration of one 30-minute episode of your latest obsession show each day.
2. Walking is low-intensity
Some people find running painful or intimidating. But walking is a low-impact, low-intensity alternative that most of us engage in every day. The human body was built to walk, and most of us can do so comfortably for at least a short period of time.
Research found that for people unable to tolerate moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, lower-intensity walking was still beneficial for improving health, serving as a 'suitable alternative' to vigorous exercise. If you find running for 30 minutes hurts your knees or hips, walking for 45 minutes in front of the TV might be a more comfortable option for you.
3. Treadmills provide accessibility
As nice as it is to walk in front of the TV, sometimes it's good to get out into nature. Walkingpads or under-desk treadmills can be supplemental to a routine, acting as a helpful alternative to make sure you're consistent.
On fair-weather days, take your 30-minute walk outdoors and plan a circular route, while on rainy days or during heatwaves, you can stay indoors and walk instead. Giving yourself options and flexibility allows you to stay consistent, and when it comes to improving fitness, consistency is king.
Best walkingpad / under-desk treadmill deals in the US
Best walkingpad / under-desk treadmill deals in the UK
More Prime Day deals in the US
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More Prime Day deals in the UK
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