An incline treadmill is an upgrade over standard flat treadmills. Even a slight incline helps you burn more calories. It also helps you work out your leg muscles. These benefits help you achieve your fitness goals.
There are a lot of features to consider while purchasing an incline treadmill for your home gym or exercise space.
Let’s take a look at some of the best incline treadmills available today.
In a Hurry? Here is our top pick:
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Quick Answer – Top 7 Best Incline Treadmills
- 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill – Editor’s Choice
- NordicTrack T Series 8.5S Treadmill – Most Versatile
- NordicTrack T Series 6.5S Treadmill – Best For Beginners
- NordicTrack Treadmill 2950 Commercial Series – Most Advanced
- LifeSpan Fitness TR3000i Treadmill – Easiest To Fold
- Sunny Health & Fitness ASUNA 7700 Treadmill – Sturdiest
- Schwinn 810 Treadmill – Best Controls
Reviews – The Best Incline Treadmills
1. 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill – Editor’s Choice
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This entry by 3G Cardio Elite Runner is commercial quality. It has one of the best suspension systems and several built-in training programs.
This incline treadmill is a class apart as is evident from its features. It’s built sturdy, you will feel like you’re on a treadmill in a commercial gym.
Its control panel is easy to use. With a simple touch, you can increase incline settings up to 15%. The speed control is also managed with a touch. Plus, there’s a wireless chest strap to monitor heart rate.
There are built-in workout programs, and the ability to customize your own personal training programs.
The running platform is L x 62″ by W 22″. That’s large enough for all your exercise needs. The quick belt speed lets you accelerate from 0 to 12 mph in just 18 seconds – perfect for interval or HIIT workouts.
The Elite Runner has a weight capacity of 400lbs. It’s powered by a sturdy 4.0 HP motor.
While it may not have all the features of other products in this guide, it is easy to operate. With this machine, you get reliability and sturdiness. That means you can use it every day for years. It has a 10-year parts warranty and a 2-year labor warranty.
PROS
- Incline Settings Up To 15%
- 10-Year Warranty
- Easy To Use Controls
- Pre-Programmed Training Programs
CONS
- A Little On The Expensive Side
2. NordicTrack T Series 8.5S Treadmill – Most Versatile
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NordicTrack T Series is a true champion of incline treadmills. It has the same quality that you would find at a commercial gym. But, unlike those treadmills, it is not as bulky and is quite affordable.
When you purchase a NordicTrack T Series, you receive a 1-year subscription to iFit. This gives you up to 5 exercise profiles, plus access to studio workouts and global workouts. You can program your treadmill to provide you with exciting workout sessions.
This is a high-quality treadmill. It comes with a large 10″ LCD screen and fans to keep you cool. It has several incline settings and a range of speeds. The build is sturdy, it won’t move much even when you are running on it.
The iFit Trainer auto-adjusts your incline and speed for superior adaptive workouts. The running deck is L x 60″ and W x 20″, so there’s plenty of room for all kinds of workout programs. Finally, the weight capacity is 300lbs.
With NordicTrack T series, you can bring the gym home to you. The machine has enough options to suit everyone, whether you want to lose weight or stay in shape. NordicTrack 8.5S is a high-performance and well-designed treadmill for the home.
PROS
- 1-Year iFit Subscription
- Large LCD Screen
- 12% Incline
- 50 Workout Programs
CONS
- The iFit Membership Isn’t Free
3. NordicTrack T Series 6.5S Treadmill – Best For Beginners
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Here we have another entry by NordicTrack though with a few changes. This incline treadmill is compact and budget-friendly. It includes a 1-month iFit subscription, which provides studio workouts, global workouts, and trainer-led adaptive workouts.
The running surface of the treadmill measures L x 55 by W x 20″. It’s well-cushioned, making it large and comfortable for runners. The speed goes up to a maximum of 10mph. Along with the incline, it’s auto adjustable by Bluetooth connectivity.
With a backlit iFit Display, a music port, and speakers, this treadmill has superb multimedia to keep you pumped during your runs.
The control panel is basic but provides all the information you need to know. The machine is designed to be used with iFit. Still, users have the option to bypass it if they don’t want to continue paying for the iFit subscription.
Finally, it has a weight capacity of 300lbs, and a 10-year warranty on the frame, with a 2-year parts warranty.
The NordicTrack 6.5S is a compact treadmill that offers great value. If your budget is a little tight, but you want all the benefits of a premium incline treadmill, this is it.
PROS
- Budget-Friendly
- Decent Range Of Pre-Programmed Workouts
- Deck Cushioning
- Space-Saving Design
CONS
- A Maximum 10% Incline
4. NordicTrack Treadmill 2950 Commercial Series – Most Advanced
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Here’s another entry by NordicTrack. This one is from the commercial treadmill series. Though there are various sizes and configurations available in this series, we have chosen the 2950 model for this review.
The machine is a class apart in terms of its design and construction. It includes a 1-year iFit subscription. Its huge 22” HD screen provides useful video training.
This machine is fully adjustable. Everything from speed, incline, and running surface firmness can be adjusted, all with a touch of a button. The running deck is L x 60″ by W x 22″, so it’s a little bigger than others in this guide.
The incline can be adjusted from -3% to 15%. Top speed is an auto-adjustable 12 mph. These features make it a good choice for HIIT workouts.
Finally, this treadmill can hold up to 300lbs. There’s a 10-year warranty on the frame, and 2 years on the parts.
NordicTrack Commercial Series provides all the conveniences and comfort to make your workout fun and effective.
PROS
- Large Running Platform
- Quiet Operation
- 22” Full HD Screen
- -3% To 15% incline
CONS
- Assembly Can Take Up To 4 Hours
5. LifeSpan Fitness TR3000i Treadmill – Easiest To Fold
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This lightweight incline treadmill is loaded with great features. The treadmill folds easily for portability and storage.
Lifespan Fitness TR3000i treadmill is well made, has a solid feel, and is comfortable to run on. The running surface is large, and the 3-speed fans keep you cool. The deck has shock absorbers that increase the comfort and running posture.
The treadmill runs smoothly and quietly at all speeds. And it comes with 38 exercise programs. If you like to keep track of your calories burned, speed, distance, and the like, the console will help you do that. It sends data from the treadmill to your training app.
The LifeSpan Fitness folding treadmill covers all the bases with ease. It is a great incline treadmill for those looking to stay in shape at home. Even if you have limited space, it folds up easily and it’s lightweight. That means you can use it anywhere in your home.
PROS
- Incline Settings Up To 14%
- 38 Pre-Programmed Exercise Programs
- Lightweight And Foldable
- Portable And Easy To Store
CONS
- Not Ideal For Heavy Runners
- Doesn’t List The Size Of The Running Deck
6. Sunny Health & Fitness ASUNA 7700 Treadmill – Sturdiest
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This entry by Sunny Health & Fitness is perfect for those looking for an easy-to-use treadmill. The treadmill is operated manually and doesn’t use electricity. This means that there are no power cords. You can use it anywhere, anytime.
The treadmill is well constructed and can sustain serious workout pounding. The running deck is L x 51″ and W x 17.75″. That’s not as wide as other treadmills in this guide. Still, that’s enough to provide a good workout.
It has an incline of up to 14 degrees. The maximum user weight capacity is 440 lbs.
Since it is a manual treadmill, you’re not going to get video training programs or electric fans. However, it does have a tablet holder so you can listen to music, watch a movie, or use other apps.
The most noteworthy thing is the machine’s durability. It has a tough steel frame that can bear rough use. The flywheels provide enough resistance and are made of solid steel.
Though it doesn’t provide the conveniences of electronic features, the 7700 Asuna treadmill is an amazing manual machine that provides great workouts.
PROS
- Heavy-Duty Machine
- 10-14 Degrees Incline
- 8 Resistance Levels
- No Cords Or Power Consumption
CONS
- Cannot Adjust The Incline While The Machine Is In Use
7. Schwinn 810 Treadmill – Best Controls
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The Schwinn 810 Treadmill provides over 50 global running routes. It’s like you were running outdoors. The routes auto-adjust to your running speed. There is a subscription required to access this feature.
The LCD screen displays built-in workout programs and offers 2 user profiles. There’s a 10% incline that’s push-button controlled and motorized for convenience. The controls on this incline treadmill are extensive yet well-placed and easy to use.
The running deck is L x 55″ by W x 2o” and cushioned for comfortable running. Also, there is a charging port for your phone or tablet.
Finally, the weight capacity is 275lbs, and there’s a 10-year warranty on the frame and motor.
PROS
- Heart Rate Contact Strips
- Shock Absorbent Cushioning System
- Smooth, Quiet Operation
CONS
- The Heart Rate Handles Are Too Low For Some Users
Buying Guide – How To Choose The Best Incline Treadmill?
When it comes to exercise equipment, incline treadmills work particularly well to help you build glutes, calves, and quads.
They are also great for burning calories. Most of the products that we reviewed have an incline of at least 12%. Some even go up to 15%, which simulates hiking and climbing.
Below are the things you should consider before you purchase an incline treadmill.
Console Features
When talking about treadmill features, one of the first places you’ll look is the electronics.
Console features include everything from speakers and fans to tablet holders, screen size, and more. These things improve the convenience of using the machine and provide entertainment while working out.
Console features also include built-in workouts and their customization. Plus, you can control your incline level, speed, and track workout information.
It includes pulse sensors in the handles to monitor heart rate. Sometimes you might find a chest strap for this purpose.
The more features a console contains, the higher its price tag. Make sure you get the product that contains features that you plan to use and still stay within your budget.
Space
After electronics, space and deck size are two important treadmill features. What if you don’t have a lot of space for your treadmill? Choose a lightweight folding treadmill so it can be moved easily.
Larger and non-folding treadmills are harder to move. However, lighter treadmills are not as stable and may wobble while you’re on them.
Deck Size
Longer decks are a must for taller people planning to jog or run on the machine. Most treadmills with 60” decks are perfect for tall people and running. Anything below 55” and you may have to limit your exercise to jogging or brisk walking.
User Weight Capacity
Most quality machines have a maximum weight limit that is within 300 – 400 lbs. However, some cheaper options can only take 200 lbs. It is important to choose a machine that can handle your weight.
Benefits
Let’s take a look at the benefits of an incline treadmill.
- Increased heart rate
- More calories burned
- Greater muscle stimulation in your lower body
- Adjustable resistance for greater muscle activation
- Less impact on knees & ankles
The fact that you can burn more calories and stimulate your lower body muscles is a big advantage over traditional treadmills.
How Many Calories Do Incline Treadmills Burn?
If you’re considering an incline treadmill, chances are you want to burn more calories. So, what can you expect as far as calories burned? Let’s find out.
If you use your treadmill with no incline and walk at a speed of 3 mph for 30 minutes, you’ll see 250 calories burned. Now increase your incline to 2%, and you’ll burn 268 calories. Up it to a 6% incline, and you’re looking at 308 calories burned.
The faster you go, and the higher the incline, the more calories you’ll burn. For example, running at 5mph with a 6% incline burns 466 calories. Most people will probably be able to handle this level.
It should be noted that these are approximate numbers, and depend on your weight, age, training programs, and workout intensity.
What’s The Difference Between Incline Trainers And Incline Treadmills
An incline trainer looks pretty much the same as an incline treadmill. So what’s the difference? Other than cost, incline trainers have a larger, more powerful motor and a much higher incline.
For example, an incline trainer can go up to a 40% incline. It should go without saying, an incline trainer is meant for elite athletes and other advanced users. If you’re interested, NordicTrack makes perhaps the highest quality incline trainer.
Workout Programs
As noted, if you’re an elite athlete or advanced user, you may want to consider using an incline trainer.
Otherwise, there is a wide range of training programs you can do on your incline treadmill. Here’s one example of incline training on your treadmill:
For this workout, you can run, jog, or walk briskly as desired.
You’ll begin at a 2% incline. Then, every two minutes, increase your incline by 3%. Your goal is 4 mph. What if you aren’t experienced enough for that speed and incline? Then go for a 2% incline and a top speed of 2.5 to 3 mph.
This workout consists of three sets. You’ll burn a lot of calories by staying at your goal speed and incline.
Try to end the first set at a 15% incline. Here’s the workout:
- Minutes 0-2 – 2% incline
- Minutes 2-4 – 5% incline
- Minutes 4-6 – 8% incline
- Minutes 6-8 – 12% incline
- Minutes 8-10 – 15% incline
As noted, do this three times. Remember, cut your incline and speed if needed based on your level of experience.
You can also do incline training using HIIT workout programs. This involves warming up, then going as strong as you can for one minute. Slow down and take it easy for two minutes. Then go all out for one minute again. Keep going all out and then slowing down as many times as you can. Your goal should be twenty minutes. This type of training burns more calories than most other workout sessions.
The bottom line is to set fitness goals you can meet. Keep moving forward by setting new goals and adapting your workout programs to your goals. You may want to remember: a manufacturer of a treadmill usually also makes an incline trainer. As noted, choose according to your fitness goals.
Conclusion
Incline treadmills provide enough resistance for users to improve fitness at home. Whether you’re losing weight, staying in shape, or building muscles, the best incline treadmills can take care of all your fitness needs.
You can buy any of the incline treadmills mentioned above. However, the one that stands out is the 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill. It’s durable and great for running. You can also use it for walking, jogging, interval training, and weight loss.
As an alternative, we recommend the NordicTrack T Series 8.5S Treadmill since it has 50 onboard programs, 5 different user profiles, and the iFit app.
We hope that you now have some idea as to which are the best incline treadmills on the market today. On this list, there is an incline treadmill for people of varying needs and preferences.
