Walking at Home in a Small Space: Your Options Explained

ByAndy Kenny

Plenty of people in Irish apartments and smaller houses want to walk more at home, but do not have room for a full-size treadmill. You have more options than you might think – some cost nothing.

Option 1: Indoor walking routines (free)

Follow-along “walk at home” routines use marching on the spot, side steps, knee lifts and step-touches. They need about two square metres of floor and no equipment.

Option 2: Stairs

If you have stairs at home, a few minutes of walking up and down, holding the handrail, is an efficient way to raise your heart rate. Start with one or two minutes and build up slowly.

Option 3: A walking pad

A walking pad is a compact, low-profile walking belt. Many models slide under a sofa or bed or stand on their end when not in use. They are designed for walking rather than running.

Good for: daily walking, walking while working, small spaces.
Less good for: running, steep incline workouts.

Option 4: A folding treadmill

A folding treadmill takes more space but suits people who also want to jog. Check the folded footprint, the weight of the machine, and whether it has wheels. This guide to folding treadmills for small spaces lists the measurements to check.

What to measure before buying anything

  • The floor space where you will use it, plus clear space behind it.
  • The storage spot – including the height under your sofa or bed.
  • Doorways and stairs you need to carry it through.
  • Ceiling height if you are tall and the machine adds height.

EaseMoov has a useful checklist of what to measure first before choosing a walking pad.

Noise and neighbours

In apartments, footfall and motor noise can travel. A dense mat, walking at a steady pace and avoiding very early or late sessions all help.

Which option is right for you?

  • Tight budget, any space: indoor routines and stairs.
  • Want to walk daily or at your desk: a walking pad.
  • Want to jog as well: a folding treadmill, if you have room.

General information only. Check with your GP before starting if you have a medical condition.

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