How-to
How to use a walking pad
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In short
Place the pad on a flat, level floor near a wall socket, check the belt is centred, then plug it in and switch it on. Fit the safety key or learn the stop button, pair the remote, stand on the side rails and start at the lowest speed before stepping onto the belt. Raise speed in small steps, stop fully before stepping off, then unplug and store it as the manual shows.
Products for this job
Compare all 7 productsKALWOL 4-in-1: 10% incline, 40 dB or less, 160 kg
Check price on AmazonAffiliate linkUrevo SpaceWalk Lite: flat 100 x 40 cm walking pad
Check price on AmazonAffiliate linkUREVO CyberPad: 14% auto incline walking pad
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Walking pads are simple machines, but the first few sessions go more smoothly if you know the routine. Most arrive fully assembled, with a remote, a power lead and a small tool kit. Some use a magnetic safety key, others use a stop button and automatic sensors. This guide covers the steps that apply to most models: unboxing and placing the pad, the safety key, pairing the remote, choosing manual or automatic mode, starting and stopping, and putting it away. Button names and procedures vary, so keep your manual to hand and follow it where it differs.
First set-up
- 1
Unbox the pad with two people if it is heavy, and keep the packaging until you are sure it works.
- 2
Place it on a firm, level floor with at least the clearance behind it that the manual specifies, often around 2 m, and some space either side.
- 3
On carpet, use a mat underneath so air can reach the motor and dust stays out. See do you need a treadmill mat.
- 4
Check the belt looks centred, with an even gap on both sides of the deck.
- 5
Plug the lead directly into a wall socket where the manual says so, then switch on at the pad's power switch if it has one.
Note:Many makers advise against extension leads. If you must use one, follow the manual and never use a coiled reel. Keep the lead out of walkways.
The safety key and stopping
Many pads have a magnetic safety key on a cord. The key sits on the display or the body of the pad and the clip goes on your clothing. If you drift back too far, the key pulls off and the belt stops. The pad will not start without it.
Pads without a key usually rely on a stop button on the remote, and some add sensors that stop the belt if no one is standing on it. Learn where the stop button is before your first walk. If you lose a key, see lost treadmill safety key.
Pairing the remote
Some pads also connect to an app over Bluetooth. Pair the remote first, then the app, as the manual describes.
- 1
Fit the batteries supplied, checking the direction of each one.
- 2
Switch on the pad. Many remotes pair automatically within a few seconds.
- 3
If it does not respond, follow the pairing steps in the manual. On many models this means holding a button on the remote close to the display until it beeps.
- 4
Test start, speed up, slow down and stop before stepping on.
Manual and automatic modes
In manual mode, you set the speed with the remote or app. This is the mode to use at a desk, because the speed stays fixed while you type.
Some pads offer an automatic mode, which uses sensors in the deck. Walk towards the front and the belt speeds up; drift to the middle and it holds; move back and it slows. It feels natural for walking around the house but is less suited to desk work. Not every pad has it, so check your manual. Some also have preset programs that change speed over time.
| Use | Speed (km/h) | Speed (mph) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting out, typing | 1 to 2 | 0.6 to 1.2 |
| Steady desk walking | 2 to 3 | 1.2 to 1.9 |
| Brisk walk | 4 to 6 | 2.5 to 3.7 |
Starting and stopping
- 1
Stand on the side rails, not the belt, and clip on the safety key if there is one.
- 2
Start the belt at the lowest speed.
- 3
Step onto the centre of the belt and walk, looking ahead rather than at your feet.
- 4
Raise speed in small steps. Use our pace and speed converter if your pad shows mph.
- 5
To finish, slow down, press stop and wait for the belt to stop completely before stepping off.
- 6
Switch off and unplug the pad.
Folding away and looking after it
Once unplugged, slide or roll the pad to its storage spot. Some fold in half, some stand on end, and some only slide flat under furniture. Follow the manual, as standing some pads on end can damage them. See how to fold a treadmill.
Check the belt centring every few weeks, lubricate the deck when the manual says, and wipe the belt clean. Our guides on lubricating, adjusting the belt and cleaning the belt show how. If you are still choosing, see the best walking pads.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to assemble a walking pad? Most arrive ready to use. Some with handrails need the rail fitted. Follow the manual.
Why will my walking pad not start? Check the safety key, the power switch, the remote batteries and pairing. See walking pad stopped working.
Can I wear socks or go barefoot? Most makers recommend trainers. Check your manual.
Should I unplug it after use? Yes, most manuals advise unplugging when not in use, especially with children or pets at home.
What you need
- Check price on AmazonAffiliate link
KALWOL 4-in-1: 10% incline, 40 dB or less, 160 kg