Is A Walking Pad Worth It? Why A Balance Board Offers More Than Just Steps

Key Takeaways:

• Better Movement: Balance boards offer a comprehensive approach to movement, promoting better posture, focus, and productivity compared to walking pads.
• Walking Pad Drawbacks: Walking pads have drawbacks such as space requirements, noise, distraction potential, and energy consumption, while balance boards provide a more eco-friendly and versatile solution.
• Sustainability In Mind: FluidStance's balance boards incorporate sustainable materials and designs, aligning with modern wellness trends and contributing to environmental responsibility in office setups.

Many office workers and professionals are exploring ways to stay active during their workday. The rise of walking pads has certainly caught the attention of those looking to add more steps to their daily routine. 

However, walking pads are not the only option available. At FluidStance, we offer an alternative that delivers more than just the number of steps: the balance board. Unlike walking pads, which primarily focus on increasing physical activity, balance boards provide a comprehensive approach to stance, movement, and overall well-being. 

In this article, we’ll discuss why a balance board might be the preferable choice for those aiming to integrate wellness into their work environment sustainably.

 

Common Drawbacks Of Walking Pads In The Office

1. Space Requirements: Walking pads require a considerable amount of floor space, which can be a significant limitation in smaller office settings or home offices. Their footprint can impede movement around the workstation or office, making them less than ideal in space-constrained environments.
2. Noise Levels: Even the quietest walking pads tend to produce a humming or motor noise that can be distracting not only to the user but also to surrounding colleagues. This can lead to a less focused work atmosphere, reducing overall productivity.
3. Distraction from Work Tasks: For tasks that require a high level of concentration, such as writing or data analysis, walking can be distracting. The constant movement can disrupt typing and the ability to focus, leading to potential decreases in the quality of work produced.
4. Impact on Posture: Without proper posture, the act of walking while working may have a negative impact. This can lead to discomfort or pain over time, especially if the walking pad is not combined with a height-adjustable desk designed to keep the workspace at the proper height.
5. Energy Consumption: Most walking pads require electricity to operate, making them less environmentally friendly compared to non-electronic solutions. This also ties into higher energy costs, which can be a consideration for both personal and corporate budgets.

Balance Boards: More Movement, Less Hassle

When it comes to integrating movement into a sedentary workday, balance boards rise above the typical walking pads, offering a conveniently compact and versatile alternative. 

FluidStance's balance boards not only encourage continuous motion, but they also eliminate the need for additional bulky equipment. 

• The Original balance board supports up to 350 pounds, perfect for users who require durability and stability. Your body will respond with natural micro-movements that will soothe stiff joints, burn calories, and keep you awake.
• Meanwhile, the Level Balance Board fosters movement and is shown to increase your heart rate by 15% compared to sitting. This balance board also offers an ankle range of motion of 23.98 degrees. 
• The Plane® Cloud Balance Board made from recycled materials also presents an ideal option for movement, which features a 360-degree-tilt. 

Users experience enhanced focus and productivity from the subtle rocks and tilts that stimulate muscle groups, fostering active engagement with their work environment. Unlike walking pads, balance boards are effortlessly incorporated into existing desk setups, offering movement in even the smallest of spaces without any hassle.

Enhancing Workplace Wellness With Balance Boards

By promoting gentle, continuous movement, these balance boards can help enhance focus, reduce stress, and elevate mood. Integrating a balance board into your office setup transforms your workspace into a dynamic environment, inviting frequent, subtle shifts that support both mind and body.

• Take, for instance, The Original balance board, which marries functionality with eco-conscious design. Featuring a sustainable bamboo top deck and a military-grade aluminum base, this board caters to users seeking both durability and a reduced carbon footprint. Its robust construction supports up to 350 pounds, making it an ideal choice for a diverse range of users.
• The Level Balance Board provides a stable yet dynamic platform that helps users stay active throughout the day. This balance board was shown to increase energy expenditure over sitting by more than 10%, and 51% of users in a third-party study reported feeling more focused after using the balance board.  
• The Plane® Cloud Balance Board features a cushioned foam top, and delivers a comfortable experience for users up to 250 pounds. 

 

Comparing Balance Boards And Walking Pads: A Comprehensive Look

When considering how best to introduce movement into your workday, it's essential to evaluate the benefits and uses of both balance boards and walking pads. While walking pads might be a popular fad, targeting a specific type of movement, balance boards provide a more comprehensive approach to staying active while working.

Movement Versatility

Balance boards offer a diverse range of movement that engages multiple muscle groups beyond those used for walking. With FluidStance's range of balance boards, users can rock, tilt, and sway gently, promoting micro-movements that can enhance core strength, stability, and posture. This versatility ensures that your body is continuously active without the need for extended walking sessions, making it an ideal companion for prolonged periods of standing desk use.

Space Efficiency

Space can be a significant constraint in office environments. Walking pads typically require ample floor space and storage capabilities when not in use, making them less practical for compact workspaces. In contrast, FluidStance balance boards take up minimal room and can seamlessly integrate into a workstation without disruption. Their sleek design and eco-friendly materials ensure they complement the aesthetics of a modern workspace while contributing to sustainability goals.

Sustainability And Eco-Friendly Design

At FluidStance, sustainability is at the heart of our design philosophy. Our balance boards, such as The Original and the Level Balance Board, feature sustainable bamboo and recycled materials. Additionally, the Plane® Cloud Balance Board is 100% recyclable and made from naturally non-microbial materials to prevent odor. This may contrast with the consumption-focused model of walking pads, aligning with our commitment to reducing carbon footprints and promoting environmentally responsible choices.

Health Benefits

Walking pads may focus primarily on cardiovascular benefits, while balance boards address the critical factors of both cardiovascular benefits and musculoskeletal health. For instance, Level Balance Board users reported experiencing an increase in heart rate of 15% compared to sitting, while 83% of users in a third-party study reported experiencing better posture. Standing on a balance board like the Plane® Cloud Balance Board or The Original encourages natural posture adjustments, reducing neck and back strain typical of prolonged sitting or improperly designed workstations. The responsive surface of our boards also supports better ankle, leg, and hip mobility—key components for a healthy work-life balance.

Long-Term Benefits Of Using A Balance Board

Incorporating a balance board into your daily routine offers several long-term benefits that extend beyond the workplace. 

Promoting Micro-Movements 

Firstly, these boards promote constant micro-movements, which is crucial for relieving the physical strain of prolonged sitting or standing. This subtle activity helps increase core strength, improve posture, and enhance stability, providing comprehensive musculoskeletal benefits. In fact, 57% of Level Balance Board users reported feeling increased core strength after using the balance board. 

Better Focus And Productivity 

Balance boards like those offered by FluidStance are designed to integrate seamlessly into your work environment, encouraging more dynamic and engaged work habits. By consistently using a balance board, users may also notice heightened focus and productivity. 51% of Level Balance Board users reported feeling more focused when experiencing the effects of the balance board.

Environmentally Friendly 

Furthermore, FluidStance's eco-conscious design ensures that as you reap health benefits, you're simultaneously contributing to environmental sustainability. Made from recycled and sustainable materials, our range of balance boards is an investment not only in personal well-being but also in the planet's health.

How Balance Boards Improve Posture And Productivity

By promoting subtle, continuous motion, these boards encourage users to engage their core muscles, maintain better posture, and alleviate common discomforts associated with long periods of sitting or static standing.

The Original Balance Board And The Level Balance Board 

For instance, The Original balance board and Level Balance Board are designed to support healthy alignment through their structures and premium materials. Supporting up to 350 pounds and 300 pounds, respectively, they are engineered to create a gentle rocking motion. This movement prompts micro-adjustments in posture, which over time contributes to stronger core muscles and less tension in the back and shoulders. It’s no surprise that 83% of Level Balance Board users reported having better posture after being studied.

The Plane® Cloud Balance Board

Moreover, using balance boards can lead to increased productivity. The flow that balance boards such as the Plane® Cloud Balance Board offer can lead to improved cognitive function and helps combat the mid-afternoon slump many office workers experience.

Final Thoughts

Investing in workplace wellness is essential for professionals looking to maintain productivity and health throughout their workdays. While walking pads offer a solution for those seeking to walk while working, balance boards provide a more versatile option that encourages greater overall movement. 

FluidStance's range of balance boards, crafted with premium and eco-friendly materials, not only promote active standing but also improve posture, enhance focus, and support sustainable living. Our products like the Original, Level, and Plane® Cloud Balance Boards ensure that users experience subtle yet effective movement. 

Overall, balance boards present a multifaceted approach to incorporating beneficial movement into a routine otherwise defined by long hours at the desk. By choosing FluidStance balance boards, individuals invest in a healthier, more productive work environment that emphasizes balance in every sense of the word.

Read also:

• Why Am I So Stiff After Sitting? Tips For Relief
• Why Is Balance Important? Health Benefits Explained
• Effective Wobble Board Exercises To Improve Balance And Stability

Frequently Asked Questions About Walking Pads And Balance Boards

What is a walking pad?

A walking pad is a compact, portable treadmill designed for light walking activities, primarily used indoors. It's ideal for individuals looking to stay active at a moderate pace while engaging in other tasks, such as working or watching TV.

How does a walking pad differ from a treadmill?

Walking pads are generally smaller, more lightweight, and often less powerful than traditional treadmills. They are designed for walking rather than running, making them suitable for low-impact exercise in confined spaces, like home offices.

What benefits does a walking pad offer?

Walking pads can offer several benefits, including increased daily step count, enhanced cardiovascular health, and improved mental well-being by promoting movement during sedentary activities. They are also space-efficient and easy to store.

What is a balance board?

A balance board is a device crafted to engage users in active standing. By requiring slight movements to maintain balance, it helps improve posture and core strength while enhancing focus and preventing fatigue during prolonged standing activities.

How can a balance board improve balance?

By challenging the user to maintain stability, balance boards activate core muscles and promote proprioception, which can improve balance, coordination, and posture over time. This active engagement also contributes to better muscle tone and reduced risk of injury.

Why should I consider a balance board over a walking pad?

While both walking pads and balance boards encourage movement, balance boards offer unique benefits such as enhancing core strength and balance without requiring constant walking. FluidStance's balance boards, designed with eco-friendly materials, are perfect for those seeking a sustainable option to integrate subtle yet effective movement into their workday.