The difference between a mediocre treadmill workout and a calorie-torching, muscle-building session often comes down to one simple adjustment: Hitting the incline button. Using the best incline treadmill can boost your cardio fitness, calorie burn and overall strength, all while going easy on your joints. In fact, research indicates walking on a moderate incline offers effective cardiovascular benefits while also minimizing joint stress, making these machines valuable for everyone from older adults working to maintain their health to serious athletes.
The gains can be significant. While studies on treadmill walking tend to be small, one study published in BMC Geriatrics found that for older adults, walking on a 10% incline may increase calorie burn by up to 23% while activating more muscles in the legs and core. “Incline workouts target lower body muscles, specifically [the] quadriceps, hamstrings and calves — making them incredibly effective for building strength and tone,” says Maria Vazquez, head of training at MyWowFit, an online fitness platform. When you walk or run on an incline, your body engages your leg muscles more than on a flat surface. Over time, this increased engagement leads to greater muscular endurance and strength that can make other workouts and daily tasks feel easier.
“Incline treadmills also help people train for outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing and snowboarding at various elevations and climbs,” says Sarah Pope, a personal trainer and group exercise instructor at Life Time Clarendon in Arlington, Va.
Incline treadmills are available in a range of sizes and price points, offering different incline levels, speeds, tech features, integrated programs and more. To help you choose the best incline treadmill for your needs, our team went all in: We consulted fitness experts, including personal trainers, coaches and an exercise physiologist; researched leading treadmill brands; and put 18 incline treadmills to the test to find the best solutions for every budget and need.
Not sure you need an incline treadmill? We tested even more treadmills and walking pads you may want to consider, and we continue to review new models as they become available.
Update, December 10, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for best incline treadmill remains unchanged.
Best overall incline treadmill
Laura Williams
Deck dimensions: 22 x 60 inch | Max incline: 40% | Max decline: -6% | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: No | Warranty: Lifetime motor, 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 4.25 CHP | Standout features: iFIT compatibility, pivoting touchscreen, USB-C charging port, auto-adjusting fan
With the broadest incline range of any treadmill we tested — and built tough enough to handle whatever workout you dream up — the NordicTrack X24 is our pick for the best overall incline treadmill.
It tilts from a steep 40% incline down to a -6% decline, letting you tackle both uphill and downhill terrain without leaving home. The 24-inch HD touchscreen swivels to show your workouts, and if you add an iFIT Pro subscription ($39/month), you can access trainer-led sessions filmed in beautiful locations worldwide. The coolest part? The treadmill automatically adjusts to match the terrain in your workout, so when you head uphill on a mountain trail in Aspen, your machine follows right along with you.
We were thoroughly impressed by the design and quality of the NordicTrack X24. For example, the treadmill features horizontal and vertical handrails to help keep your balance — or even just to hold onto for dear life — during those punishing climbs. If you need to stop in a hurry, there’s an emergency stop button, as well as a safety key that attaches to your clothes with a clip.
Be warned: This beast weighs 445 pounds and doesn’t fold. While it has wheels, you’ll definitely want to choose a permanent spot for it. And make sure it’s under a high ceiling. The step-up height starts at 13 inches; when fully inclined? Our 6’0″ tester said her ponytail brushed the ceiling.
Built like a tank, this machine delivers where it counts: it supports up to 400 pounds, offers a cushy running belt and stays rock-solid no matter your speed or incline. It’s admittedly an expensive investment, but one you’ll enjoy for years to come.
If the 40% incline is a bit much for your needs, but you want all the other bells and whistles this NordicTrack offers, you may want to consider our pick for the best smart incline treadmill, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450.
- Most extensive incline and decline angles of all treadmills tested
- Superior stability at all inclines
- Comprehensive safety features
- Premium cushioning system
- Large footprint
- iFIT subscription needed for full features
- Premium price point
$2,999 at NordicTrack
More incline treadmills we like for 2025
Bowflex
Deck dimensions: 20 x 60 inch | Max incline: 15% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 3 years mechanical parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.0 HP | Standout features: Quickdial controls, integrated adjustable fan, Bluetooth connectivity, connects to Apple and Galaxy watches, Peloton, JRNY, Zwift
Looking for a treadmill that can actually climb without wrecking your budget? The Bowflex T6 earns our Best Under $1,000 spot thanks to a true 15% motorized incline and controls that make mid-workout tweaks feel effortless. Our first-time treadmill tester had an easy start: Bluetooth paired right away, and the quickdial knobs let her easily adjust speed or grade up and down while moving — no hunting for tiny buttons. Incline changes are smooth and nearly silent, and the frame remained steady even when the incline got steep.
You won’t find a built-in touchscreen here, but the T6 syncs with Apple and Samsung Galaxy watches and connects with popular apps including Peloton, JRNY (two-month trial included) and Zwift. The 20″ x 60″ deck size works well for walkers and joggers, and the belt cushioning feels consistent with no buzz or shake, even during uphill efforts.
Comfort touches are thoughtfully done, including an adjustable fan, two large bottle holders, and separate shelves for phone and tablet so you can stream classes or keep stats where you want them. The T6 folds upright, though it doesn’t shrink to a tiny footprint, but the transport wheels make it easy to shift out of the way.
- Excellent buy under $1,000
- True 15% powered incline with even transitions
- Quickdial knobs simplify on-the-fly speed/grade changes
- Pairs with Apple/Galaxy watches; works with Peloton, JRNY, Zwift
- Adjustable fan and practical storage for devices and bottles
- No integrated touchscreen
- Built-in programs are basic
- Folds, but stored footprint isn’t especially small
$999 at Horizon Fitness
Kristin Granero
Deck dimensions: 20 x 57 inch | Max incline: 12% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 11.2 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime technical support, 1-year limited | Motor: 2.0 HP | Standout features: Folds flat and stores vertically, heart rate monitor, wireless charger, low deck height
The Feier Star 100 is the perfect incline treadmill for small spaces due to its compact 5.6′ x 2.6′-footprint and clever folding design. When you’re done running, it can fold flat or stand upright on retractable feet, taking up a mere 3.5 square feet of space against a wall or in a closet.
But there’s more to the Star 100 than its size and foldability. With a sleek LED display, Bluetooth connectivity, safety key and 36 preset workouts that automatically adjust speed and incline, this treadmill delivers the features you need.
Additionally, its low deck height means you can use the full incline range (up to 12%) without worrying about your ceiling height — a common issue with bulkier treadmills.
The tradeoffs are fairly modest: The motor is 2.0 horsepower, and the weight limit is 265 pounds. But with a max speed of 11 mph and 12 degrees of incline, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to maximize their space without compromising their workout.
- Easy vertical storage
- Low deck height
- Safety key
- No touchscreen
- Less powerful motor
- Lower weight capacity
$1,500 at FEIER
Laura Williams
Deck dimensions: 22 x 60 inch | Max incline: 15% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 5 years electronics and parts, 2 years labor | Motor: 3.5 CHP | Standout features: Bluetooth heart rate monitor with chest strap, rotary dial controls, multiple user profiles, app compatibility with Peloton, Zwift, and Studio
Interval training requires quick transitions between effort levels, and the Bowflex T16 delivers the smoothest, most intuitive controls we’ve tested for alternating between challenging inclines and recovery periods. The standout feature is the combination of handlebar-mounted quickdials for fine-tuning speed and incline, plus screen-integrated quick-change buttons that let you flip back and forth between your current and previous settings with a single tap. Our tester gave this system “two enthusiastic thumbs up,” noting how the seamless adjustments made high-intensity interval workouts feel effortless.
The 15% motorized incline provides plenty of range for hill intervals, and the extra-wide 22-inch belt gives you room to move during intense efforts without worrying about drifting off the sides. The treadmill stays remarkably steady throughout incline adjustments, and the 3.6 continuous horsepower motor handles sustained high-intensity work without any strain. The 16-inch HD touchscreen offers access to JRNY programming (included free for two months, then $29/month), but you can also stream entertainment apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime or connect with Peloton and Zwift for third-party workouts.
While the T16 isn’t as rock-solid as heavier, non-folding models, it folds for storage and features wheels for easy movement. One limitation: JRNY workouts don’t auto-adjust speed and incline like some competitors, requiring manual changes even during guided classes.
We did hit a couple of quirks: During testing, the treadmill stopped abruptly mid-session a few times (likely tied to JRNY integration), and a quick unplug/restart fixed it. Priced around $2,000, the T16 lands in that mid-range “serious but not luxury” bracket. If you’re willing to trade down the screen size and those superior interval controls, the Bowflex T6 offers a very similar experience for about $1,000 less — but for athletes who prioritize interval ergonomics and a larger display, the T16 deserves a close look.
- Quick, single-press interval changes and intuitive dials
- 15% motorized incline
- Extra-wide 22″ belt
- 16″ touchscreen with entertainment apps
- Integrates with multiple fitness apps and smartwatches
- JRNY workouts don’t auto-adjust incline
- Not as sturdy as heavier, non-folding models
- Folding mechanism doesn’t save significant space RetryR
$1,999 at Bowflex
Jennifer Purdie
Deck dimensions: 20 x 60 inch | Max incline: 15% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year deck/parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.0 HP | Standout features: Heart rate monitor, USB port, device holder, free app access
The Sole F63 offers high-end quality at a mid-range price, making it our top pick for folding treadmills. While often available for around $1,000 during sales, it feels like a premium purchase — its sturdy frame supports users up to 325 pounds, and its generous deck allows more room to run than our fave compact model, the Feier Star 100.
The control panel and the LCD screen are easy to navigate, with shortcuts for speed, incline and basic preset programs, including hill climbs and interval training. Thanks to Bluetooth, you can stream workouts and music from your favorite fitness or entertainment apps or explore hundreds of classes through the included Sole+ app.
All in all, you’ll get a smooth, comfortable run, even during longer sessions with inclines up to 15%. The belt runs smoothly, with just a slight vibration at top speeds.
Of course, given its winning status, the Sole F63 is also super-easy to fold. Four wheels make it easy to roll into storage, and a kick-release latch lets you securely lower the deck when you’re ready to run.
- Folds and moves easily
- Comprehensive safety features
- Great value
- Slight vibration at high speeds
- Limited integrated programs
- Basic display
$1,300 at Amazon
Heidi Borst
Deck dimensions: 22 x 60 inch | Max incline: 12% | Max decline: -3% | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime motor, 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year basic | Motor: 4.25 CHP | Standout features: iFIT compatibility, 24-inch pivoting touchscreen, auto-adjusting fan
There’s smart, and then there’s NordicTrack Commercial 2450 smart. This top-of-class treadmill brings a clever trick to home running: As you explore virtual trails through Google Maps, it automatically adjusts its incline and decline to match the real terrain. To complete the immersive experience, the massive 24-inch touchscreen pivots nearly 360 degrees to give you the flexibility to perform exercises on and off the deck.
The tech features don’t stop there. The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 seamlessly syncs with iFIT (a virtual training membership, for an extra cost), which tracks your progress and tailors recommendations to your performance. It even fine-tunes your intensity based on heart rate, helping you optimize your training and hit that cardio sweet spot.
Under all this intelligence, you’ll find the essentials done right: a powerful 4.25 continuous horsepower motor, a wide 22-inch belt and cushioning that keeps your runs smooth and comfortable. And with a 400-pound weight capacity, it’s built for nearly any user.
Just know that this premium experience comes with a premium price tag (although still lower than our top overall pick) — plus an iFIT subscription comes at an additional cost ($39/month). And while it folds for storage (another feature our top pick doesn’t offer), the machine is big enough you’re not going to want to move it often. If you’re looking for a treadmill that learns and adapts with you, the Commercial 2450 delivers.
- 24-inch pivoting screen
- Accommodates users up to 400 pounds
- Wider belt with excellent shock absorption
- Heavy; difficult to move
- iFIT subscription needed for full features
$2,499 at NordicTrack
Krissie Pannullo
Deck dimensions: 20 x 60 inch | Max incline: 12% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts and motor, 1-year tablet, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.6 CHP | Standout features: iFIT compatibility, 16-inch HD touchscreen, fan, USB-C charging port, easy fold
Serious runners need a treadmill that can keep up, and the Pro-Form Carbon Pro 9000 rises to the challenge. As NordicTrack’s more affordable sister brand, it combines what matters most: a sturdy 3.6 continuous horsepower motor for those long training sessions and a smooth and spacious deck that gives you room to hit your stride. And at 20 inches wide and 60 inches long, the belt is ideal for taking long strides, even if you’re on the taller side.
The shock absorption? Excellent, according to our tester, striking an ideal balance — softer than road running but firmer than some other treadmills, making it perfect for those who want their indoor training to translate well to outdoor runs. This sweet spot in shock absorption provides a comfortable experience while preventing joint and foot strain during frequent training sessions.
Our tester also loved the Carbon Pro 9000’s quick-adjusting speed and incline controls and the moderate up to 12% incline. The 16-inch touchscreen provides access to iFIT programming (for the $39 monthly fee) and tracks your stats and progress, complete with Bluetooth connectivity for headphones and fitness trackers and built-in speakers.
While it’s a substantial machine, the Carbon Pro 9000 folds to just 44 inches long and 67.5 inches tall when stored. This space-saving design, along with its 350-pound weight capacity and convenient USB-C charging port, makes it an excellent choice for those who want top-tier performance without sacrificing practicality.
- Speed and incline adjust quickly
- Cushioned running deck
- Easy to fold
- Stationary touchscreen
- Large footprint
$1,699 at Pro-Form
Angela VanBrackle
Deck dimensions: 22 x 60 inch | Max incline: 15% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 5 years electronics and parts, 2 years labor | Motor: 3.5 CHP | Standout features: Bluetooth heart rate monitor with chest strap, rotary dial controls, multiple user profiles, app compatibility with Peloton, Zwift, and Studio
At $1,800, the Horizon 7.4 AT is an exceptional value pick by packing premium features into a mid-range price point. You get a lifetime warranty on both frame and motor (plus five years on electronics and parts), a powerful 3.5 continuous horsepower motor and a spacious 22-by-60-inch belt that provides plenty of room for intervals and sprint work. The rotary dial controls enable instant, precise adjustments to speed and incline — perfect for HIIT workouts — and the 15% max incline gives you serious hill-training capability.
What makes the 7.4 AT particularly valuable is its versatility and ease of use. Multiple user profiles make it ideal for households where several people want to track their progress, and the treadmill seamlessly connects with popular apps like Peloton, Zwift and Studio, giving you flexibility to choose your preferred training platform. Built-in HIIT workouts provide structure if you want guidance, while the included Bluetooth chest strap and hand-grip sensors offer accurate heart rate tracking. Our tester praised the straightforward assembly process with quality instructions, and the sturdy frame limits vibration even during intense workouts.
The treadmill folds for storage, though it’s heavy to maneuver when folded. The basic screen offers limited features compared to touchscreen models, and our tester noted the belt can feel slightly sticky when changing to higher speeds. However, for the price, you’re getting a durable, well-built machine with a warranty that reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in its longevity.
- Easy incline adjustments
- Lifetime warranty on frame and motor
- Multiple user profiles
- Broad app compatibility
- Easy assembly
- Heavy to move when folded
- Belt can feel sticky at higher speeds
- Basic screen with limited features
- Integrated fan rather ineffective
$1,800 at Amazon
Rachel MacPherson
Deck dimensions: 20.5 x 57 inch | Max incline: 12% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12.5 mph | Folding: No | Warranty: 10 years frame and motor, 1 year parts (20 years with maintained membership) | Motor: 3.5 CHP | Standout features: 22″ HD pivoting touchscreen, streams Netflix and apps, gamified workouts, competition modes, coached workouts, 300+ Les Mills programs, Cloud Stride cushioning deck, ultra-low 4-5 inch step-up height
If staring at a wall while trudging through incline workouts sounds unbearable, the Aviron Victory transforms hill training into an engaging experience through games, competitions and entertainment. The massive 22-inch HD touchscreen streams Netflix, Hulu, YouTube and other apps directly (no Aviron membership required), but where this treadmill truly shines is its gamified content that actively incorporates the 12% motorized incline into gameplay. Games like Fishin’ Frenzy turn incline adjustments into fishing mechanics — increase incline to cast your line, crank up speed to reel in catches faster — making hill intervals feel like play rather than punishment.
The $29 monthly Aviron membership (billed annually at $348) unlocks the full entertainment experience: Competitive races against other users or robots, “Pros vs Joes” challenges where you race Olympic athletes at their actual paces, over 70 programs and coached Aviron workouts and the entire Les Mills library of 300+ routines. Virtual scenic destinations let you “run” through beautiful landscapes and all of these workouts leverage automatic incline adjustments to match the programming. Our tester loved how the gamification made “running feel fun and less like a chore,” and the super quiet operation means you can watch shows or focus on games without cranking the volume.
Cloud Stride cushioning gives the deck excellent shock absorption, and since it’s low to the ground, getting on and off is effortless. However, at 242 pounds with no folding mechanism, this is a permanent fixture once placed. The display also vibrates noticeably at higher speeds, which can be distracting. At $2,499 (plus $300 for the practically essential white glove delivery), it’s a significant investment that only makes sense if you’re motivated by competition and gaming and are willing to commit to the ongoing membership costs.
- Streams Netflix and apps without membership
- Engaging gamified workouts incorporate incline training
- Quiet operation
- Ultra-low step-up height
- $29/month membership required for games and programs
- Doesn’t fold and weighs 242 lbs
- White glove delivery adds $300
$2,499 at Aviron
Jennifer Purdie
Deck dimensions: 22 x 60 inch | Max incline: 15% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year deck/parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.5 HP | Standout features: Four transport wheels, USB port, tablet holder, free Sole+ app access
If you’re into combining screen time with workout time, the Sole F80 makes it easy. The 10.1-inch touchscreen supports both screen mirroring from your devices and direct connection to 12 streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video. The addition of a tablet holder and Bluetooth speakers make catching up on entertainment super easy.
When it comes to workouts, the Sole F80 continues to deliver with 15 incline levels — more range than many other models — along with a top speed of 12 mph. Its powerful motor and heavy-duty frame support high-impact workouts. And, maybe the best part: You get access to the Sole+ app, which offers more than 3,000 guided workouts, no subscription required.
The F80 shines when it comes to comfort for all body types. Its spacious 22-inch deck provides plenty of elbow room, while the cleverly positioned console lets taller users maintain proper posture during their workout, even while watching shows. Built solid with a 350-pound weight capacity, it’s a machine that suits most users. One caveat: The handrails are shorter than other models and might not be the best option for people worried about walking or running without holding on.
Finally, with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, the Sole F80 is an investment built to last.
- Free Sole+ app with workouts
- Comprehensive safety features
- Supports 12 streaming apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video
- Onboard programming
- Larger footprint than other options
- Shorter handrails
$1,900 at Sole
Urevo
Deck dimensions: 16.5 x 42.4 inch | Max incline: 9% | Max decline: 0% | Max speed: 7.6 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: 2-year extended warranty | Motor: 2.5 HP | Standout features: Doubles as under-desk treadmill, tablet holder, free UREVO app for tracking and workouts
If you’re looking for something more compact and versatile than a traditional treadmill, the Urevo Strol 2S Pro offers an impressive mix of features in a more manageable package. Unlike bulky treadmills, this walking pad transforms from an under-desk walking solution to a compact walking and jogging machine with its clever folding handlebar design.
The nine incline settings let you dial in your preferred challenge level, while the shock absorption system keeps your joints happy during longer sessions. Dual displays show your stats clearly whether you have the handlebars engaged or folded and the included remote control makes adjustments simple when the handlebar is down — perfect for multitasking during walking meetings or TV time.
While its top speed of 7.6 mph won’t satisfy serious runners, it’s more than enough for a solid jog. The handlebar does double duty, providing stability for users who want extra security and transforming the unit from a walking pad to a more traditional treadmill setup.
The sturdy frame and well-cushioned belt held up through weeks of testing. One minor quirk: The pause function resets to the lowest speed instead of remembering your previous pace. And while the unit is heavy for a walking pad, integrated wheels make moving it around more manageable.
- Doubles as under-desk treadmill
- Small footprint
- Affordable
- Safety clip
- No side handrails
- Less powerful motor
- Not for serious runners
$460 at UREVO
Factors to consider when purchasing an incline treadmill
From motor power to max incline, here’s what to look for when choosing the best treadmill for your needs:
Fitness goals and experience level
A modest incline range works for occasional challenges. But if you plan regular intense climbs to target your quads, glutes, hamstrings and calves, consider models with extended incline ranges — and possibly decline options. Your experience level should also guide your choice. Beginners — and those overwhelmed by option anxiety — often prefer simpler models with straightforward controls. More advanced users might enjoy premium models with varied workouts and streaming options to keep routines fresh.
Budget and motor power
Treadmills that remain stable at all speeds and inclines during regular use typically start at around $1,000, with premium models ranging from $2,000 to $4,000… or more. This higher price point reflects quality construction, ensuring better durability and performance than lower-cost models.
A crucial component affecting cost is motor power. Personal trainer Josh York, founder and CEO of Gymguyz, recommends looking for a motor with at least 2.0 to 3.0 horsepower to ensure reliable performance. Betts agrees, adding, “A more powerful motor can handle higher speeds and inclines smoothly,” so if you’re serious about incline training, ensure your budget covers a treadmill with enough power to match your needs.
Prices increase with advanced technology like expanded multimedia features and smart functionality. Additionally, some models may require a subscription service to unlock full capabilities. Consider both the upfront price and any ongoing costs when making your final choice.
Available space
Most treadmills measure about 3 feet (36 inches) wide and 6 to 7 feet (72 to 84 inches) long, though exact dimensions vary by model and incline capabilities. No matter the size, plan for at least 2 feet of clearance on each side — and 6 feet behind the deck — when choosing your treadmill’s location.
And remember, incline treadmills often have a higher step-up height, which increases further at an incline. To play it safe, add your height plus the deck’s maximum incline height, then allow an extra 1 to 2 feet of headroom. Most users need at least 8 feet (96 inches) of ceiling height to exercise comfortably without worrying about close calls with the ceiling.
Integrated workouts and technology
Most incline treadmills feature integrated workout programs that automatically adjust the incline based on time or distance. These programs are designed to keep your workouts dynamic and challenging. Higher-end models often offer more built-in workouts and smart features, like iFIT’s subscription service with thousands of trainer-led workouts and real-world terrain simulations. For manual control, incline treadmills typically have incremental adjustment buttons. Premium models may include quick-access presets or smooth-rolling dials for precise mid-workout changes.
Safety features
Standard safety features include handlebars for added support, side guard rails to help you maintain proper alignment and emergency stop mechanisms. The most common is a safety key — a magnetic pin attached to a clip that you wear. If you move too far from the console or fall, the clip detaches and the treadmill stops instantly. Some models even feature a clearly labeled emergency stop button on the control panel for quick access.
Following a fatal accident involving a child, Peloton added a rear guard to their Tread+ to prevent objects from being pulled under the belt. Since most treadmills lack this feature, it’s imperative to maintain at least 6 feet of clearance behind the deck for safety. Also, if you have children in the house, it’s important to consider how to prevent them from using the treadmill without supervision. A treadmill that has a detachable safety key that you can store away from the machine itself is one helpful solution that can help prevent exercise equipment-related injuries.
How we chose
There are a lot of incline treadmills out there! To help narrow down the best of the best, we consulted fitness experts and evaluated a slew of treadmills based on motor power, belt size, pricing and warranty to assess each model’s durability and overall value. Next, we rigorously tested 18 models, assessing their ease of use, comfort, speed, incline adjustability, entertainment features and display quality. We also thoroughly tested smart feature integrations, like touchscreens, built-in workouts, Bluetooth connectivity and fans. We compared notes, double-checked with experts and — voila! — we whittled the field down to our faves to help you select the best incline treadmill for your fitness goals, lifestyle and budget.
Other products we tested

While these machines didn’t make our top selections, they may be exactly what you’re looking for. (Rachel MacPherson)
Centr Runr-S: While the incline adjustment is slower than expected, possibly limiting its effectiveness for high-intensity interval training, the Runr-S is an excellent value at $1,559. The sturdy construction, incline range of 0 to 12% and wide assortment of integrated workout options make it a solid choice for many. Plus, you get a complimentary three-month Centr digital membership to enhance your training experience.
Peloton Tread+: This premium treadmill comes with a hefty price tag of nearly $6,000 — and you’ll have to spend even more to utilize Peloton’s All-Access Membership, which includes its renowned workout programming. But the investment brings impressive features: a 0 to 15% incline range adjustable in precise 0.5% increments, an extra-long 67-inch slatted rubber belt, a 32-inch display and a unique manual mode where your movement powers the belt instead of the motor.
XTerra WalkSlim WS300: At under $1,000, the WalkSlim WS300 is worth considering, especially since it provides 10 incline levels and can fold flat to just 8.5 inches for easy storage. The issue? We found that it becomes unstable at higher speeds and incline settings — and the belt tended to catch when the incline was increased.
Egofit Walker Pro: Another walking pad steal at $399, this one is compact with a quiet motor — but its moderate 5% incline is fixed, leaving no room for customization. Another potential drawback: Taller users might find the belt dimensions a bit tight.
Echelon Stride-4S-22: At $1,590, this treadmill delivers a 0 to 12% incline range, low step-up height, easy folding mechanism and a pivoting HD touchscreen. The one bummer? The touchscreen functionality largely requires an Echelon Premier Membership, sold separately at $39/month.
Horizon 7.0 AT: While it offers solid value with a 15% incline range, intuitive controls, strong app compatibility, and the hydraulic folding system makes storage easy, the Bowflex T6 (priced at $899) edged it out as a solid budget choice. The Bowflex provides more app and wearable integration options and also makes it easier to switch between speeds and inclines with quick-adjust dials on the handlebars.
Horizon T101 Connect: This treadmill delivers entry-level incline training with a 10% maximum incline and straightforward controls at an accessible price point. While it’s a solid option for casual walkers looking to add some hill work to their routine, the 10% incline limitation falls short compared to most treadmills in this roundup, which typically offer 12% to 15% or higher. For serious incline training or those preparing for hilly terrain, you’ll want to consider models with more substantial incline capabilities.
FAQs
What are the benefits of using an incline treadmill?
There are lots of benefits to walking or running on an incline treadmill, including:
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Increased calorie burn: When you walk or run on an incline, your body pushes against gravity, forcing you to expend more energy and burn more calories. Notably, at least one study suggests that walking at a modest 5% incline increases calorie burn by about 50%. Bump the incline to 10% and calorie burn more than doubles, increasing by about 110% compared to walking on a flat surface. This same-speed-more-results trick is particularly helpful for maximizing your workout over a shorter period of time.
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More muscle activation: Walking or running on an incline engages muscles more intensely than flat-surface walking, particularly targeting your posterior chain (glutes, hamstrings and lower back) along with your quads and calves. This increased muscle activation is key for developing strength and toning.
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Boost heart health: Incline workouts raise your heart rate more than flat-ground walking, improving cardiovascular fitness. That means regular incline walking or running strengthens your heart and increases blood circulation, helping reduce your risk of heart disease.
What incline percentage is equivalent to running outdoors on a hill?
Outdoor hills vary in steepness, so you’ll need to adjust your treadmill’s incline to match the specific terrain you’re trying to simulate. For help figuring it out, know that moderate hills on a rolling trail start with an incline of around 5% to 10%. But if you’re looking to replicate more strenuous inclines, increase your treadmill’s incline to 12% to 15%. Some advanced treadmills also have decline settings, allowing you to simulate walking or running downhill. If you’re hoping to copycat the outdoor experience, try a decline of –1% to –3%.
How do I choose the right incline level for my fitness level?
Start conservatively and gradually increase the incline to match your improving strength and endurance. If an incline feels too challenging, don’t hesitate to lower it and focus on maintaining proper form. Here’s how to choose the right level:
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Beginner
Those new to running or incline training should start at about 1% to 2%. This slight increase helps build cardiovascular endurance without overloading muscles while your body adjusts to the intensity. -
Moderate
If you’re comfortable with flat-terrain exercise, consider starting at 3% to 5%. This range effectively engages your glutes and hamstrings while remaining manageable — ideal for building strength and endurance without hill-sprint intensity. -
Intermediate
Got a solid base of endurance and strength? Training for hill running or preparing for a race? If so, an incline between 6% and 10% is ideal. Here, you’ll increase muscle activation, particularly in the lower body, and boost both aerobic and anaerobic fitness. -
Advanced
For high-intensity training or simulating steep outdoor terrain, a 10% to 15% incline may be more your speed. This is ideal for experienced folks seeking a real challenge that mimics mountainous terrain. Remember, these levels can be very taxing, so use them sparingly to avoid overtraining.
Is incline training bad for my knees?
No! In fact, incline training can actually benefit your knees. One small study found that walking at 3 miles per hour on inclines between 10% and 20% reduced stress on the participants’ knee joints compared to walking on flat ground. This stress reduction, combined with increased muscle activation in your legs, may help protect your knees and reduce your risk of joint wear and tear and injury over time.
What are some effective incline treadmill workouts?
Here are three popular approaches to incline training:
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Try your machine’s built-in workouts: Many modern treadmills come with preloaded workouts that automatically adjust the incline as you go, making it easy to get started.
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Experiment with interval training: To boost your strength and endurance while keeping your muscles engaged, manually alternate between periods of high and low incline. For example, you could walk at a steep incline for 1 to 2 minutes, then lower the incline for a minute to recover. Repeat the cycle for a set duration, like 20 or 30 minutes. This type of workout boosts strength and endurance while keeping your muscles engaged.
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Build strength with a pyramid workout: Start at a low incline and gradually increase it while maintaining a consistent speed. Once you reach your peak incline, slowly decrease back to flat ground. This climbing simulation builds strength and cardiovascular fitness.
Whether you’re using built-in programs or creating your own routine, it’s crucial to warm up before you start — and cool down afterward. And as always, check with your health care provider before starting a new exercise program to ensure it’s a good fit for you.
Meet the experts
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Sara Pope, personal trainer and group fitness instructor with Life Time Clarendon in Arlington, Va.
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Maria Vazquez, personal trainer and head of training for MyWowFit, an online fitness platform
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Josh York, personal trainer, founder and CEO of Gymguyz, a fitness company that brings personal trainers and equipment directly to users’ homes
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.

