The home office trend I ignored until sitting all day started affecting my health
Rethinking the sedentary workday, one step at a timewalkingpad. auOur editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. . . .
Rethinking the sedentary workday, one step at a timewalkingpad. auOur editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. ReadmorehereAs someone who has recently settled into a corporate rhythm of endless sitting, with the occasional relief of standing or walking to another meeting room, I’ve come to realise that the sedentary lifestyle is not for me. While I work out regularly, whether that be the gym,pilatesor yoga, I’ve noticed that over the last few months of full-time desk work, I’ve become more tired, sluggish and plagued by a constant backache from sitting in the same spot all day. With my hybrid work setup, I have the opportunity to use myhome office– so why not jazz it up in a way that benefits both my performance and my health? Enter: the humble walking pad, also known as an under desk treadmill. Whether you’re catching up on emails, watching TV or simply trying to squeeze in daily steps: a walking pad can completely change the way you work. You also don’t need to sacrifice a lot of money or space for a bulkytreadmill. Plus, when the heat and humidity of the Aussie outdoors feels like you’re running laps in a sauna, a walking pad is the perfect solution. Below, we’ve curated a guide to the best walking pads Australia-wide for increasing your step count without sacrificing time. Keen to compare models, product options and price? Head to our handy walking padcomparison table. You might also likeThese home reformer Pilates machines will lengthen and strengthenTop walking pads in Australia for 2026Shopping tip:look out for essential features such as the motor power and speed range, footprint and storage options, safety features and belt cushioning. Most walking pads top out around 4–6 km/h, which is perfect for walking but not for jogging or running. Best overallWhy we love:compact design, excellent user reviews and affordable priceCurrently in number one position for treadmills on Amazon, the Merach Walking Pad Treadmill is in the best overall on price, features and reviews, with 70% of buyers giving it a five-star rating. This compact, under desk walking pad even has a 5% incline, which is great for variety and extra calorie burning as you walk, and its 16 in width means that it offers up to 23% more space than other walking pads – which is perfect for those who tend to lose their balance. You can also track every move via the Merach app, encouraging more daily steps, reducing sedentary time and offering a portable way to stay active while working or relaxing. This walking pad is popular due to its compact design and excellent user reviews. One review described their walking pad as “truly ideal for walking inside when conditions outside are too cold, wet or windy, or you don’t feel safe outdoors. Delivery was quick and so easy to set up. Easy to move and on the quiet side which means I don’t disturb others when using it. ”Weight capacity:~120 kgSpeed range:1–6. 1 km/h (walking / light jog)Control:App, remote controlTop features:Slip-resistantDetachable power cordBuilt-in pulley designBacklit display tracks speed, distance, time and calories1 year warranty service / 3 years frame warranty serviceBest luxury buyWhy we love:innovative double-fold technologyThe WalkingPad X2 is highly coveted for its double body-fold technology, allowing you to exercise in any space at any time with its foldable, compact design. And its advanced features don’t stop there. This sleek, space-saving cardio solution offers a running belt with advanced cushioning, wear-resistant and anti-slip technology, so you can feel safe and secure. It also comes with a smart control dial and app for seamless adjustments, including increasing your speed up to 12 km/h. Plus, you’ll never be without entertainment thanks to the built-in phone and tablet holder – so not walking is no longer an excuse. If you’re after undeniable quality and innovative technology, this walking pad is your go-to. One five-star review on theWalkingPad websitesaid this walking pad went “well beyond” their expectations: “Great built quality, silent even at 12 km/h, app works seamlessly and connects in three seconds. The training data is quite reliable (I made a comparison with my calibrated Garmin smartwatch). It lacks some shock absorbance but in the end if you have good running shoes you have nothing to worry about. For its price it’s really worth the purchase if you live in a tiny apartment like me. ”Weight capacity:~110 kgSpeed range:1 to 12 km/h (walking / jog)Control:LED display, smart dial and appTop features:180-degree double-fold mechanismRunning belt features advanced cushioning, wear-resistance, and anti-slip technologyIntegrated LED display with smart control dialBuilt-in phone and tablet holderTransport wheelsBest for entertainmentWhy we love:Bluetooth speakers and no-fuss designThe Everfit electric walking pad is sleek, sturdy and intuitive, and is well-liked for its built-in entertainment features, including Bluetooth speakers. With a slim design and a 380 mm-wide walking belt, it’s designed to slide under standing desks and wardrobes, while its maximum speed of 10 km/h lets you vary your stride from a slow walk to a light jog. Its sensors also monitor speed, time, distance and calories, so you can focus on work (or TV – whatever you prefer!). On the more affordable end of the walking pad spectrum, the Everfit is a great option. “I love this walking pad,” said one five-star review. “It was easy to unbox, relatively light weight and used one trolley to get it up to my apartment. It’s not silent, but if you have the TV on you don’t notice it’s running sound. It also has a remote which I stuck to the handle, and has wheels to roll back under the bed and a handle helps with stability. I am so glad I bought this walking pad. ”Weight capacity:~110 kgSpeed range:1 to 10 km/h (walking / light jog)Control:App, remote controlMore features:Energy-efficient motorShock control system helps reduce the risk of joint injuryWheels for easy mobilityBluetooth speakers for entertainmentFoldable designSensor shows speed, time, distance and calories1 year warrantyBest affordable entry-level treadmillWhy we love:stability and ease of useThe Sperax walking pad is the perfect balance between affordability and performance, making it an excellent entry point into the world of walking pads and indoor exercise. It features a powerful motor and a spacious, cushioned belt for smooth transitions from leisurely walks to light jogs. You can monitor speed, distance, time and calories on the LED display and adjust settings with the included remote (batteries not included). Whether you’re working, streaming or stepping, this walking pad helps you stay active without leaving your room – both a dream and a nightmare for parents trying to get kids moving!While not the best in terms of performance, customers enjoyed this walking pad for its stability and easy of use. “I purchased this walking pad for my husband who found difficulty going to the gym on a daily basis. It was delivered quickly and without need for assembly,” said one five-star review. Weight capacity:~120 kgSpeed range:1–10 km/h (walking / light jog)Control:Remote controlMore features:LED display screenFolding designDesigned for low noiseMeasures speed, time, distance and caloriesFive-layer running beltBest for small spacesWhy we love:ultra-thin designThe Airhot walking pad treadmill is crafted with convenience in mind. Its slim design lets it slide under sofas and desks with ease, but don’t let its lightweight look fool you. This walking pad features a powerful motor and operates at a noise level below 45 decibels, meaning you can use it anywhere, anytime without disturbing others. The intuitive LED display tracks speed, distance, time and calories, while the smart remote control allows you to customise your workout with ease. With a 4. 4 out of 5-star rating, customers praise its compact size and value, though it does beep when changing speeds. “I absolutely love this walking pad! It’s compact, quiet and super easy to set up. I use it daily while working from home, and it’s helped me stay active without disrupting my workflow. The build quality is solid, and it runs smoothly at different speeds. Perfect for small spaces and surprisingly motivating – I’ve easily added thousands of steps to my day,” said one five-star reviewer. Weight capacity:~120 kgSpeed range:1 to 6 kph (walking)Control:Smart remote controlMore features:Low noise levelDouble-layer shock absorption to protect jointsRunning belt features anti-slip and wear-resistant propertiesWheels for mobilityBest for incline workoutsWhy we love:incline performanceThe Ypoo 3-in-1 walking pad is for those looking for a little more variety to their steps. Featuring three incline modes, you can burn up to 45% more calories while adding a little bit of variety to your walk. Powered by a 2. 5 HP brushless motor, it operates quietly at speeds ranging from a brisk walk to a light jog. It also has a slim profile for easy storage under sofas, beds or cupboards. Monitor your time, speed, distance and calories with the LED display. Customers on Amazon gave this walking pad an overall rating of 4. 5 out of five stars, praising it for its build quality and good value for money. “So easy to set up and store away,” said one five-star review. “I have chronic health and pain issues and got this to help me walk a few minutes when able. The remote is so handy, and you can increase the speed to a good jogging pace too if you want. Delivery was also really fast. ”Weight capacity:~136 kgSpeed range:0. 5 to 3. 7 mph (0. 8 to 6 kph) (walking / light jog)Control:Remote control and appMore features:Three customisable incline modesLightweight designComes fully assembledWheels for mobilityLED display records time, speed, distance and caloriesOil-free running belt means no need for lubricationBest budget walking padWhy we love:colour options availableA walking pad doesn’t have to fall short on style. Available in four colours, the Advwin walking pad offers all the essential features at an affordable price. It features three adjustable incline levels up to 4%, an LED display to track time, speed, distance, calories and steps, and a maximum speed of 8 km/h for a light jog. Ultra-quiet and durable, it’s perfect for homes or offices with limited space. Customers appreciate the fuss-free setup and lightweight design, though some note it isn’t the quietest pad. “I’ve had this walking pad for about three years, and it’s been a game changer. My steps feel effortless, and it still runs like a dream. I walk over 10,000 steps daily and only oil it every few months. I love it so much I bought one for my parents!”Weight capacity:~120 kgSpeed range:1 to 8 kph (walking / light jogging)Control:Remote controlMore features:Up to 4% inclineLED display monitors time, speed, distance, calories and stepsAnti-slip surface and shock absorption technology to protect jointsNo installation requiredLightweight design at only 18kgCompare the best walking pads in AustraliaModelBest ForPriceCapacitySpeedShop NowMerach walking padCompact design, top Amazon reviews$120 kg1–6. 1 km/hShop NowWalkingPad X21Innovative double-fold tech, small spaces$$110 kg1–12 km/hShop NowEverfit electric walking padEntertainment + user-friendly$110 kg1–10 km/hShop NowSperax 3-in-1 walking vibration padAffordable entry-level treadmill$120 kg1–10 km/hShop NowYpoo walking pad with inclineIncline workouts at home$136 kg0. 8–6 km/hShop NowAirhot walking pad treadmillUltra-thin & portable$120 kg1–6 km/hShop NowAdvwin 3-in-1 walking padColour options & lightweight design$120 kg1–8 km/hShop NowShould you choose a walking pad or a treadmill?Walking pads have become increasingly popular in Australia as more people in full-time, work from home and hybrid roles recognise the benefits ofintegrating movementinto their routines. Walking pads are not only an affordable alternative totreadmills, but they are also more compact, portable and are designed to fit under a standing desk, which has become another popular home office addition to homes. Treadmills are a great option for those who have space in their home, and want more advanced features such as incline and faster speed. From a health perspective, both a walking pad and a treadmill have physical benefits. However, a2025 studyon the effect of incline walking on lower extremity and trunk mechanics found that walking on a treadmill set at a 10% incline or steeper can reduce the stress on your knees. If you do choose a walking pad for its incline benefits, you may be better off with a treadmill due to its ability to obtain a higher incline, however a slight incline might give you some relief if you are susceptible to knee pain. The only quirk with a walking pad, based on my own personal experience, is to make sure that you are investing in one that can handle faster strides (if power-walking is something you’re interested in). One of the walking pads I have used isnoton this list solely for the fact that when you start increasing the speed, the belt shifts sideways from the pressure. Make sure you do your research and read reviews before purchasing your own walking pad. What are the benefits of a walking pad?Walking pads allow users to stay active throughout the day, which can help improve physical health, boost productivity, and reduce the negative impacts of prolonged sitting. A2018 studyfound that a simple walking program at home can meaningfully improve walking endurance, daily activity levels, and confidence in walking for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD). If you are someone who sits eight hours a day for work, a walking pad can significantly improve your health. Asmall Harvard studyof 11 adults found that sitting all day raises blood sugar and blood pressure, but taking five-minute walking breaks every 30 minutes significantly reduced both. Even shorter or less frequent walks lowered blood pressure slightly. Any walking after prolonged sitting can help cut cardiovascular risk, researchers say. How do you choose a walking pad?Walking pads offer a variety of features, so it’s important to consider how often you will use one, which features you need, and its storage capabilities. Compact and foldable options are ideal for small spaces. TheAirhot walking padcan seamlessly fit under a sofa or bed, whereas theWalkingPad X21features a double-fold design that can be easily stored in a cupboard. You should also check the maximum weight capacity and the size of the walking area to ensure the pad suits your height and stride. Some walking pads offer app connectivity, remote controls, and adjustable speeds, which are useful if you want to monitor and control your workouts. Finally, take note of safety features, including non-slip surfaces and automatic shut-off controls. Check out our comparison table above of the best walking pads in Australia to make your choice an easy one. Where to buy a walking pad in Australia?You can buy a walking pad in Australia online from retailers like Myer, Harvey Norman, Rebel Sport or Amazon Australia. Our top pick is theMerach walking pad treadmill, which is available for $199. 99 at AmazonWriterRachel WeiszShopping Content ProducerRachel Weisz is the Shopping Writer atAustralian House & Garden, Country Style and Belle. She has over four years of experience covering everything from travel, homes and fashion to culture and entertainment. With bylines inVogue, Vogue Living, InStyle Australia, Gourmet Travellerand more, she now draws on her multidisciplinary background to shape her shopping and travel coverage. Rachel has an acute eye for trends that define the cultural zeitgeist, drawing on her expertise in editorial, e-commerce and social media to approach her work with a holistic perspective. When she’s not writing (a rare sight), she’s wandering through galleries, hunting down fashion archives or uncovering shopping finds she’ll inevitably end up covering somewhere.