Walk Longer, Hurt Less: Egofit’s Cushioned Treadmill Explained
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Time to read 6 min
Table of contents
Introduction: Walking Pads Reshape the Modern Lifestyle Common Injuries from Hard Treadmill and Walking Pad Use Knee joint wear Plantar fasciitis Spinal and joint impact stress Why Cushioning Is Critical: Injury Prevention Starts from the Ground Up Egofit ComfortDeck M2: Designed with Cushioning That Makes a Difference Cushioning Component 1: Multi-layer Composite Deck Cushioning Component 2: Thickened Running Belt Cushioning Component 3: Honeycomb Silicone Inserts Cushioning Component 4: Fixed 3% Incline Summary Comparison Table Final Thoughts
From Sedentary to Moving: Walking Pads Reshape the Modern Lifestyle
The harms of a sedentary, motionless lifestyle are widely recognized today. People who spend long hours sitting—especially desk workers—face increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, and even cognitive decline.
In response, walking under desk treadmills and treadmill walking pads have emerged as a popular solution. These compact fitness devices offer a convenient way to walk while working, without disrupting the flow of a busy schedule.
Numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of walking while working , or simply walking 30+ minutes per day. These include preventing and improving heart health, supporting weight loss, improving insulin response, and even regulating cognitive conditions like ADHD.
However, as public awareness of fitness grows, people are also becoming more familiar with sports-related injuries. What was once niche knowledge—specific to athletes and trainers—has now entered mainstream concern. It’s true: exercise strengthens the heart, brain, and prolongs life. But it can also accelerate wear and tear on the knees, feet, and spine, especially without proper equipment or conditions.
Many people today may already be experiencing discomfort from this physical stress without realizing the root cause.
Common Injuries from Hard Treadmill and Walking Pad Use
Just like any mechanical system, the human body wears out with repetitive use. Walking and running on hard surfaces, especially treadmills or walking pads with stiff decks, can increase the risk of:
Knee joint wear
A cross-sectional study of professional athletes found that long-term treadmill running caused thinning in the distal femoral cartilage. This thinning had little to do with age or BMI but correlated strongly with training time. ( PMC11071246 )
Plantar fasciitis
Repetitive stress on hard surfaces causes swelling, degeneration, or inflammation in the plantar fascia. The lack of cushioning can turn normal movement into a chronic pain trigger. ( Plantar Fascia Study )
Spinal and joint impact stress
During walking or running, the vertical force transfers from feet to knees to the spine. Repeated stress, poor muscle balance, and hard walking surfaces can result in chronic lower back pain and joint compression. ( Hard Surface vs Soft Study )
Other conditions like tibial stress syndrome and iliotibial band syndrome are also linked to repeated shock loading on unforgiving surfaces.
Why Cushioning Is Critical: Injury Prevention Starts from the Ground Up
Emerging research shows that exercise itself isn't the enemy—the wrong surface is. When cushioning is present, the body absorbs less harmful shock, making activity safer and more sustainable.
A review of MRI-based studies suggests moderate running can increase joint cartilage volume and bone density , supporting healthy joints over time. ( qims.amegroups.org )
Running on hard concrete generates significantly higher impact forces than grass or synthetic tracks. This leads to higher acceleration forces at heel strike.
Grass surfaces can reduce peak plantar pressure by more than 16% , lowering stress on the foot. ( Plantar Pressure Study )
Professional athletes understand this well. That’s why they train on rubberized tracks and wear shock-absorbing shoes. Cushioning is the key to amplifying the benefits of training while minimizing harm.
Rubber tracks and cushioned shoes take the hit so your joints don’t have to — that’s the everyday secret to moving pain-free.
Yet surprisingly, most walking pads —especially cheap under desk treadmill models—lack adequate cushioning . Their manufacturers prioritize compact size and low cost over shock absorption. The result? Walking on them often feels like walking on concrete and hence, the injuries.
That’s where the Egofit cushioned treadmill , specifically the Egofit ComfortDeck M2, stands out.
Egofit ComfortDeck M2: Designed with Cushioning That Makes a Difference
The Egofit ComfortDeck M2 is an indoor walking pad designed for walking while working or low-speed jogging (up to 6 km/h or 3.7 mph). Egofit engineers developed a multi-level cushioning system to prevent, relieve, and rehabilitate exercise-related discomfort.
Cushioning Component 1: Multi-layer Composite Deck (with controlled flex)
The ComfortDeck M2 features a multi-layer composite deck with controlled flex, built with:
High-density wood : Provides structure
EVA foam : Adds elastic shock absorption
Plastic layers : Ensure durability and return energy
This structure allows slight deformation upon contact, providing foot comfort superior even to professional rubber tracks.
✅It specifically helps:
Plantar fascia : Softer contact reduces heel stiffness and pain
Knees : First strike shock is absorbed, minimizing joint load
Spine : Stable rebound keeps posture steady, reducing back strain
The composite design also avoids the “floating” feel of over-soft decks, maintaining stability.
Cushioning Component 2: Thickened Running Belt
While most walking pads use thin belts, the ComfortDeck M2 uses a 2mm thick belt:
Greater elasticity and longevity
More cushion per step
Quieter walking experience
✅Benefits:
Feet : Softer surface prevents foot fatigue
Minimalist users : Reduced jarring and noise
Cushioning Component 3: Honeycomb Silicone Inserts
Large silicone inserts shaped in honeycomb air-pocket structure sit along both deck sides. This creates:
Compression-absorption at heel strike
Gradual rebound for smooth propulsion
These are commonly used in high-performance gym mats and premium shoe soles.
✅Targeted protection:
Knees : Reduces impact force
Lower back : Less vertical vibration during stride
Perfect for older adults or those with joint sensitivities.
Cushioning Component 4: Fixed 3% Incline
Unlike flat models, this walking pad features a 3% incline :
Improves posture and foot alignment
Engages core and glutes
Promotes midfoot landing instead of harsh heel strikes
✅Biomechanical benefits:
Back : Supports better walking posture, reduces fatigue
Knees : Encourages slight bend, softening ground impact
Ankles : Promotes natural foot roll, reducing stiffness
Bonus: the 3% incline slightly increases calorie burn without making walking harder.
Here is Summary Comparison Table for Sum-up
Design Component |
Principle |
Protected Area |
Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
Multi-layer Deck |
Elastic shock absorption |
Feet, knees, spine |
Long office walking |
2mm Thick Belt |
Soft, flexible surface |
Feet, knees |
Minimal footwear users |
Honeycomb Silicone |
Compression + rebound |
Knees, lower back |
Joint-sensitive users, elderly |
3% Fixed Incline |
Natural gait correction |
Back, knees, ankles |
Poor posture, prolonged sitting |
Final Thoughts
As walking while working and indoor walking workouts have become daily habits for many, it’s important to remember that movement—while healthy—can also cause gradual wear to specific parts of the body. Prolonged use of walking pads or under desk treadmills without proper cushioning can amplify the stress on joints, fascia, and the spine, turning what should be a beneficial habit into a source of discomfort or injury over time.
Hard, flat decks transfer impact forces directly through the feet and legs, accelerating micro-damage in cartilage, ligaments, and connective tissues. Over months or years, this repeated stress can contribute to knee pain, plantar fasciitis, and lower back strain. Without shock absorption, the body becomes the “cushion” — and it pays the price.
That’s why the Egofit ComfortDeck M2 cushioned treadmill stands apart. It’s more than just a walking pad — it’s an ergonomically engineered solution designed to actively prevent exercise-related injury. With protective cushioning integrated at every level — from its multi-layer composite deck to honeycomb silicone inserts and a thickened belt — it provides a safer, quieter, and more comfortable walking experience.
While most walking pads focus on looks and cost , the ComfortDeck M2 puts biomechanics and long-term wellness at the center of its design. This means you can keep walking daily — at work or at home — without adding unnecessary wear to your body.
If you’re already making walking a part of your lifestyle, don’t let poor equipment undermine your efforts. Protect your joints, support your posture, and make every step count. The Egofit cushioned treadmill isn’t just a tool for movement — it’s an investment in the years of healthy walking you still have ahead.
Watch video to hear real user share experience with Egofit honeycomb cushioned treadmill walking pad.
