‘Spending €200 on a walking pad was the best thing I have done for my fitness’

The walking pad trend is worth the hype

The walking pad trend took over my TikTok last winter when it was getting dark at 4 pm, and it was nearly impossible to get 10,000 steps a day in.

I didn't fancy going on walks in the evening with my giant winter coat on and five layers underneath. Looking like Joey when he puts on all of Chandler's clothes didn't resemble the lives of the fitness influencers on TikTok that were taking over my fyp.

I knew I wanted to take better care of my body and work out more, but the thought of stepping into a gym was far too intimidating.

I simply didn't want to spend my winter evenings in the company of Irish lads posing for new Tinder profile photos.

Luckily, the never-ending videos about walking pads influenced me and I caved.

I bought the Home Fitness Code walking pad (thanks to the help of Klarna) and quickly became addicted to using it.

It cost around €200 at the time and has to be one of the best investments I've ever made.

Jumping on your walking pad from the comfort of your home is the ultimate lazy girl workout, and it has completely changed my attitude towards exercise.

• Shop the PHIWOS Walking Pad here.

I now look forward to switching off and focusing on hitting my daily walking goal rather than dreading exercise like I would have in the past.

And it isn't about losing weight, but more so about caring for my body and my mind, too.

Is a walking pad worth the money?

I didn't think a walking pad could help me as much as it has, but I feel better both physically and mentally.

I'm increasing how long I spend on my walking pad every week as I get closer to the VHI Women's Mini Marathon, but I'm also enjoying it so much more.

I feel like I'm looking after my body every day, as well as my mind.

If I'm ever feeling stressed or down, I'll just take a half hour out of my day and go on my walking pad.

I don't have to deal with the hassle of going to the gym or even leave the house, which is ideal on days when it's lashing rain outside.

• The under-desk treadmill that costs less than €200

A gym membership isn't disappearing from my bank every month, I'm working out every other day, and I can even watch the Eras Tour as I get my steps in. What more could you want?

There are dozens of walking pads to choose from, but I am a huge fan of the Home Fitness Code one. It's quiet, compact, and affordable too.

Shop the Home Fitness Code walking pad here.