Structure and first steps
Setting up the WalkingPad A1 Pro is straightforward thanks to its pre-assembled design. After lifting the 27 kg, 822 x 547 x 129 mm treadmill out of the box, all you have to do is unfold it and plug it into the power outlet. The supplied power cable is two meters long and can easily be replaced with a longer cable if necessary. Calibration or re-tightening the belt is not required, which makes getting started particularly easy.
At the beginning, the speed is limited to 3 km/h to allow the user to gradually get used to the device. This limit is automatically lifted after running about one kilometer (around 20 minutes). Although this safety measure may seem a little inconvenient, it is worth planning for.
In this phase, it is a good idea to get to know the different operating modes of the WalkingPad A1 Pro. The device is controlled either via the remote control, by stepping gestures or using the KS Fit app, which is also necessary to unlock all functions.
Practical test: My experiences after one month
In my home office, I used the WalkingPad A1 Pro under my height-adjustable desk. Of course, there are other opportunities to use it, too. For example, in the evening while watching TV or in between when you want to get some exercise. Thanks to the wheels and folding design, the WalkingPad can be placed or stored almost anywhere.
Integration into everyday working life
Integrating the WalkingPad A1 Pro into everyday work is a promising idea, but it also brings challenges. Walking on the WalkingPad during a video call proved to be impractical, as both the background noise and the distraction were too great. Although the treadmill runs very quietly for the first few minutes, after a short time the fan switches on and is then clearly audible. I therefore recommend wearing headphones for concentrated work.
Operation and App
Operating the WalkingPad takes some getting used to at first, especially the pedal control. If you walk in the front area of the belt, the speed increases, in the back area it is automatically reduced. If you prefer more control, you can use the remote control, which I personally found more convenient.
The KS Fit app offers useful features such as recording training sessions and adjusting speed. Unfortunately, there were frequent connection problems during testing, which meant that some training sessions were not recorded correctly or were not saved at all.
Another drawback: the app does not automatically connect to the treadmill. To ensure that all data is saved, the app must be started manually and the treadmill connected. Using a smartwatch as an alternative to track the distance covered also produced inaccurate results, as there is hardly any arm movement when working at a desk.
A display at the front of the treadmill shows time, steps, speed and distance covered. A useful feature in itself, but it is difficult to read under a desk as it is often covered by the table top.
walking behavior and volume
The walking surface of the WalkingPad A1 Pro is relatively narrow at 120 x 41,5 cm, which can take some getting used to at first. In the first few days, I kept looking down to make sure I didn't step off the belt. The walking experience is pleasant for low (1 km/h) to medium speeds (4 km/h), and the maximum speed of 6 km/h is more than sufficient for brisk walking. However, jogging is not possible. The brushless motor ran surprisingly smoothly the entire time.
An important point is the use in apartment buildings. Despite the EVA cushioning of the WalkingPad, noticeable vibrations are created when walking, which could be felt on the lower floors. A cushioning mat can help here, but is not a perfect solution. In my case it was not a problem, but you should be careful in old buildings with thin walls.
