Let’s learn about the health benefits of the walking pads for pickleball performance improvement, preventing injuries, and recovery. The underlying principles of low-impact movement, consistent activity, and targeted recovery can be highly beneficial for pickleball players.
If you work at a desk, this walking pad could be a simple, low impact way to improve your endurance on the pickleball courts.
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The Health Benefits of Walking Pads
Walking pad treadmills, also known as under-desk treadmills, are taking the fitness world by storm, and for good reason.
These compact and versatile devices are not just a convenient way to stay active but also offer a host of health benefits that can transform your home or office fitness routine.
Here’s a closer look at why walking pads are trending on platforms like Amazon and how they can help improve your overall well-being.
Why a Walking Pad and not a Traditional Treadmill?
A key characteristic of superior walking pads is their powerful yet quiet performance.
Powered by robust motors, these treadmills can achieve a range of speeds, suitable for both slow walks and more energetic walking. The best part is that they have minimal noise level so you can exercise and work, undisturbed.
A total benefit for those in shared workspaces or at home in small spaces. Additionally, the walking pads do not have guard rails, so you can place under a desk. Finally, many walking pads can accommodate different weights, making them accessible to many users.
Walking Pads for Pickleball Players – Adaptable Movement
Just as walking pads offer various speeds and settings, pickleball players need adaptable movement patterns. Instead of static stretching, incorporating dynamic movements like light jogging, high knees, butt kicks, and arm circles mirrors the low-impact activity of a walking pad.
This prepares the body for the quick bursts and lateral movements of pickleball and aids in recovery afterward.
On rest days or between games, light activity like walking, swimming, or cycling promotes blood flow and helps muscles recover. A walking pad is an equal match for consistent, low-impact exercise.
Practicing footwork drills, such as side-to-side shuffles, backpedaling, and split steps, mimics the controlled movement of a walking pad, improving agility and court coverage.
Walking Pads for Pickleball Players – Quiet Strength and Stamina
Pickleball requires bursts of power and sustained endurance. Adapting the “quiet operation” of a walking pad means focusing on efficient movement and minimizing wasted energy.
Additionally, proper footwork minimizes unnecessary steps and conserves energy, allowing players to build muscle memory while maintaining stamina throughout longer matches.
Another factor to consider is that a strong core stabilizes the body, allowing for more powerful and controlled shots, With a walking pad, you are in constant motion and use balance to stay upright and that is strengthening your core.
Walking Pads for Pickleball Players – Targeted Recovery and Injury Prevention
Recovery is essential for optimal gameplay in any fitness routine. A walking pad uses low impact motion that could assist with active recovery on non game play days.
For example, the “vibration modes” of a walking pad can be likened to targeted recovery methods for pickleball players. These techniques help release muscle tension and improve blood flow, promoting recovery and reducing the risk of injury.
Additionally, regular stretching improves flexibility and range of motion, which is crucial for preventing injuries in pickleball’s dynamic movements.
These are essential for preparing the body for activity and promoting recovery afterward.
Positive Impacts on Pickleball Performance
Adapting the walking pad concept to pickleball can lead to numerous benefits such as improved footwork and agility. This translates to better court coverage and faster reaction times.
By walking each day, you can increase your stamina and endurance allowing you to compete at a higher level for longer periods.
And under desk treadmills allow you to walk indoors, so rain or heat or cold weather doesn’t interrupt your fitness goals!
Best Walking Pads and Under Desk Treadmills on Amazon
So know that you know the benefits, let’s take a look at some of the top selling walking pads and treadmill on Amazon.
#1 – Sperax Walking Pad
This walking / vibrating pad is about 39” long and 21” wide so it is easy and convenient to fit in almost all applications. It has a 320 pound capacity and the pad walks from speeds of 0.1 -> 3.8.
It weighs only 55 pounds so it is easy to move around and has a space saving design so you can slide it under the couch when you want it out of the way.
What happens when Sperax walking pad passed 99 minutes on the display?
When a Sperax walking pad surpasses 99 minutes of usage, it typically resets its timer display to 0. Something to consider if you are keeping track of usage time.
The pad lets you either walk or have a vibration massage. Then vibrating massage has four different modes and vibrations. It comes with a remote that changes the modes that takes two AAA batteries (not included).
#2 – Yagud Under Desk Treadmill, Walking Pad
This walking pad has wheels! 49″D x 20.5″W x 4.92″H.
#3 – DeerRun 2024 Upgrade Walking Pad
This walking pad comes in many different color options.
Large LED lit data display shows your distance, speed, time and calories. A great way to monitor without a fitness watch!
The size is 42.44″D x 20.24″W x 4.13″H and weighs 41 pounds.
AKLUER Walking Pad with Incline
This walking pad can Incline 5%. The dimensions are 42.9″D x 19.7″W x 3.85″H and it weighs just 33 pounds! It has a weight capacity of 265 pounds, LED pabel and built-in Bluetooth speakers.
Sunny Health & Fitness Non-Slip Home Gym Mat
Make sure to put a foam pad under your walking treadmill. This foam pad comes in multiple sizes.
Questions to Consider when Researching Walking Pads
How does shock absorption work with a walking pad?
Shock absorption in a walking pad is designed to reduce the impact on your joints, making walking or running on the device more comfortable and less straining.
- Walking pads often include multiple layers of cushioning in the belt and deck. These layers are engineered to absorb the energy from each step, distributing the force evenly and reducing stress on your knees, ankles, and hips.
The motor and frame contribute indirectly to shock absorption by ensuring smooth belt movement and stability. This will stop vibrations from transferring to you and make the walk more comfortable.
Shock absorption helps to reduce strain on the joints, knees, hips and ankles. So if you are recovering from an injury, shock absorption can help provide more comfort and less fatigue.
For pickleball players, the low-impact nature of walking pads with shock absorption is especially beneficial for maintaining joint health and preparing for the quick lateral movements required on the court. It enables players to stay active and build endurance without risking overuse injuries.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Walking Pad
When shopping for walking pad, consider these questions and suggestions so you can make a thoughtful purchase that works for you!
How Long Can you Walk on a Sperax Walking Pad?
The duration you can walk on a Sperax walking pad largely depends on its motor design and cooling system, but most models are designed for extended usage, typically up to 3-5 hours continuously.
Walking pads are ergonomically designed for long sessions, but users should consider taking breaks after about 1-2 hours of continuous walking to avoid fatigue and ensure safe use. However, extended operation may cause the motor to heat up, so it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for maximum continuous runtime.
How Long are the Walking Pad Cords?
Look at cable sizing. The cables might not reach to an outlet, so an extension cord might be needed. So walking pads run on batteries.
What is the Walking Stride on a Walking Pad or Under Desk Treadmill?
The walking pad is not as long as a traditional treadmill, so if you have longer legs you’ll probably take shorter strides.
How to Reduce Walking Pad Mat Slide.
Place a non-slip mat, like a rubber or PVC underlay, beneath your walking pad. Ensure the mat is slightly larger than the walking pad to provide full coverage and stability.
If you are not using a mat, make sure the surface underneath the walking mat is free of dust.
How Easy is it to Relocate the Walking Pad?
Look for a walking pad with wheels if you plan on moving it and storing it. Consider weight and size.
Do Walking Pads Incline?
Some of the walking pads don’t incline. Be sure to check the specs!
Finally, if you have cognitive or balance issues, note that there are not any handle rails.
Final Thoughts
Walking pads have become increasingly popular, and their rise in trendiness can be attributed to their versatility, compact design, and ability to align with modern wellness and lifestyle trends.
Walking pads are more than just a fitness gadget; they’re an affordable, healthy lifestyle upgrade!
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