The shift from outdoor runs to indoor walking pads is gaining traction, particularly during the winter months when weather conditions can deter even the most dedicated fitness enthusiasts. Rebecca Lawton, a mother of three and avid runner, recently explored this trend by substituting her weekly outdoor runs with a walking pad, discovering both the advantages and challenges of this new approach.
Lawton noted the increasing popularity of walking pads as a practical solution for maintaining physical activity during winter. “Walking pads offer a quick, weather-proof way to get your steps in from the comfort of home,” she explained. This sentiment aligns with findings from a 2021 study indicating that individuals tend to be less active and more sedentary during the colder months.
Personal trainer Carly Corrigall commented on the seasonal challenges, stating, “It’s much harder to get ourselves moving this time of year. Even the best intentions to head out for a run can go out the window when there’s sideways rain and darkness.”
In an effort to counter these seasonal barriers, Lawton decided to test whether a walking pad could help her stay fit. The transition revealed several benefits, as confirmed by fitness experts.
Benefits of Walking Pads Over Running
1. **Convenience and Consistency**: According to Chloe Thomas, a personal trainer and walking expert, “Using a walking pad is really convenient, which is great for consistency.” Lawton found that the ease of rolling out the walking pad from behind her sofa eliminated the need to brave cold and dark conditions, making it easier to squeeze in exercise at any time.
2. **Stress Reduction and Recovery**: Walking pads offer a low-impact alternative to running. Eryn Barber, a personal trainer at The Fitness Group, emphasized that walking decreases the stress hormone cortisol, which can be particularly beneficial during the more stressful winter months. “Chronic elevation of cortisol can have negative effects,” Barber added, highlighting the importance of managing stress levels.
3. **Joint Health**: While running provides a high-impact workout, it often leads to injuries. Barber noted that “switching to a walking pad gives your joints, specifically knees and ankles, a chance to recover.” This low-impact exercise helps maintain activity levels without the strain of running on hard surfaces.
4. **Increased Daily Activity**: The convenience of a walking pad encourages longer or more frequent sessions, thereby boosting overall daily activity. Corrigall remarked, “Our bodies thrive on movement, and being able to do it anytime you like is a huge bonus.”
5. **Metabolism Boost**: Walking for extended periods can positively impact metabolism. Barber explained that consistent movement throughout the day, even at a leisurely pace, keeps the metabolism active, contrasting with the sedentary lifestyle often adopted during winter months.
Who Benefits from Walking Pads?
Experts suggest that anyone whose exercise routine suffers during the winter months may find walking pads beneficial. Barber stated, “If you know that you hate the cold and are likely to stop exercising entirely, the walking pad is perfect for you.”
This option is especially advantageous for individuals working from home, as it integrates movement seamlessly into their day. A 2023 study highlighted that participants using treadmill desks reported reduced sedentary time and improved cardiovascular health.
Walking pads can also serve as a gentler alternative for those experiencing joint pain from high-impact activities. Thomas noted that returning to fitness after a break can be made easier with a walking pad, offering a manageable way to build cardiovascular endurance.
Lawton’s experience on the walking pad yielded insightful reflections. During her first week, she appreciated the ease of getting started without the need for elaborate preparation. “I could simply roll out of bed and get going,” she remarked.
By week two, she had established a rhythm, managing longer sessions while catching up on her favorite shows. Yet, she also acknowledged missing the mental benefits of outdoor exercise, including fresh air and natural light.
In conclusion, while Lawton found that the walking pad didn’t entirely replace her love for outdoor running, it provided a valuable alternative to maintain her fitness through the winter. The combination of indoor and outdoor workouts may be the most beneficial approach, allowing her to stay active regardless of the season.
As the demand for walking pads continues to rise, they represent a practical solution for those seeking to remain fit during challenging weather conditions.
