The explosion of work-from-home life has given many of us new habits.
One shiny new product thats been finding a home there?
But can it be just as good?
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Heres what you better know.
And you dont necessarily need to stroll for a sustained amount of time to make it worth it.
Even if youre only walking a mile an hour, you might get your blood flowing and joints moving.
Just keep your expectations realistic.
Ifallwe do is add this walking into our lifestyle, we do ourselves a disservice, Bernadyn says.
Thats because our bodies need a variety of movements and intensities to really create a well-rounded fitness routine.
So how can you get a workout with a walking pad?
If it hurts or makes you uncomfortable, stop, Richey says.
There is no sense in getting hurt trying to get fitter and healthier.
If you want to get your heart beating faster, the simplest option is to pick up the pace.
Intervals are an efficient way to make the most of a walking pad.
Turn to the side for some lateral movement.
Consider switching directions sometimes for side-to-side lateral walks.
Looking to work your core?
Bernadyn recommends turning down the speed to 0.3 or 0.5 miles per hour and doing some high-knee marches.
Your core will automatically fire up to keep you balanced as you go.
Just dont venture to push the pace.
Were going really slow here, Bernadyn says.
Were not focused on speed.
Were focused on form and safety.
Amp up the incline (if you’ve got the option to).
Not all walking pads have an option to change the incline.
But if yours does, take advantage.
It will also get your heart beating faster.
She suggests beginners aim for a 3 to 5% grade.
So are walking pads worth the hype?
Generally, walking pads are meant to just add a little more movement to your day.
Its not designed to be effortful.
Its designed to be active, Richey says.
And honestly, thats what we could all use a little bit more of as a society.
So consider your walking pad more of a step break versus an actual workout.
A walking pad is unlikely to completely transform your fitness.
Richeys top advice for getting the most out of this fitness tool?
Keep it simple and keep consistent.
