Best Incline Treadmill: 7 Awesome Options
Incline training is a gamechanger for upping up the intensity of your workout, whether that be running or walking.
There are many options, each designed with unique features to cater to diverse preferences and fitness goals.
This guide delves into the top seven incline treadmills that stand out in terms of performance, price, and overall value; Each treadmill is broken down into compare its pros, cons, and cost.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a fitness enthusiast seeking to add variety to your routine, this curated list aims to assist you in making an informed decision.
How Were These Incline Treadmills Chosen?
There are so many treadmills out there, some simple and others more high-end. On a spectrum, fitness centers and PT clinics tend to house more durable, heavy-duty options since they are meant to stay in place. While incline treadmills for home use tend to be low to mid-level in terms of heavy-duty for ease of setup and storage. So, the goal of this list was to provide plenty of options to suit a variety of needs. While all these treadmills are suitable for home use, there are options across the whole spectrum of heavy-duty and features.
The biggest factors that went into choosing these incline trainers were user feedback, performance, and the value for money.
Additionally, the inclusion of various brands and models ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner looking for a budget-friendly option or a seasoned athlete seeking advanced features to enhance your workout experience.
What Is The Best Incline Treadmill?
Here is a comparison of features and cost:
Note that all of these treadmills have:
– Folding capability
– Some sort of digital console that gives workout feedback, such as workout time and distance
– Transport wheels
– Speed adjustable by .1 mph increments
Read on for more detail on the best incline treadmills!
1. Horizon Fitness 7.0 At Treadmill
Overview
When you think of that one option that will fit the needs of most people searching for an incline treadmill, the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill comes to mind. It boasts a good range of inclines and speeds, catering to users of various fitness levels and preferences. Unlike some companies that develop their own fitness apps exclusively compatible with their treadmills, Horizon Fitness adopts a different approach with its “we’ll offer a great exercise product, you bring your technology if you want” philosophy.
The treadmill’s Bluetooth connectivity allows it to sync with different fitness apps like Peloton and Studio, accommodating a broad range of user preferences. This flexibility is highly appreciated, as it means users aren’t limited to specific treadmill brands just because they prefer a particular fitness app. With Bluetooth connectivity, users can easily connect their devices to the treadmill speakers for audio guidance or place their tablets on the device holder to follow along with their preferred workout programs or watch netflix.
This is a small detail but appreciated by many users – its speed and incline “dial control.” Unlike traditional buttons, these dial controls offer a more convenient way to adjust settings during workouts, allowing users to make quick changes without interrupting their exercise rhythm.
Specifications
Top Features
- Wide range of speeds and incline with dial control
- Bluetooth connectivity that sync with other fitness apps and trackers
- Motor is fairly quiet
- Easy folding and unfolding: when unfolding, lever releases the platform, and the walking platform will gently lower down. Similarly, this helps lift the walking platform during folding
- Includes built in pulse monitor on handles and heart rate chest strap (more accurate)
- Lifetime frame and motor, 3 year parts, and 1 year labor warranty
- Other nice to haves: workout fan, device holder, USB charging port, and 8 different built-in workout programs
Considerations
- The tablet holder is not adjustable, which should be a problem for most when watching a mounted TV. However for shorter people, your view may be partially blocked by the tablet holder unless its a higher mounted TV (For reference the height dimension of the treadmill is about 66 inches, however you would be about 4-6 inches taller when on the treadmill)
- Some users have found the speakers to be too quiet
Cost
$ 999
30 day return policy
2. NordicTrack New Exp 7i
Overview
The NordicTrack New Exp 7i Treadmill offers a more compact design compared to other options on this list.
Despite its smaller footprint, this treadmill remains sturdy and well-built, ensuring a stable platform for your workouts. NordicTrack is renowned for its innovative iFIT app, for which users receive a complimentary one-month iFIT trial with purchase of the treadmill (and then $39 per month thereafter if you choose to continue use of the app). The iFIT app provides users with a plethora of expert trainer-led workouts, including both live sessions from around the world and thousands of pre-recorded routines. During live workouts, the fitness expert or certified personal trainer has the capability to make automatic adjustments to your treadmill settings with your permission.
Bluetooth connectivity enables users to connect their headphones to the 7-inch digital console, which displays the iFIT workouts.
If you’re someone who wants and values guidance and accountability in your fitness journey, the NordicTrack New EXP 7i Treadmill with its iFIT app integration is an excellent choice.
Specifications
Top Features
- Compact and sturdy treadmill (even when running on it)
- Allows bluetooth headphone connectivity to iFIT workouts (1 month free trial) and specific heart rate monitors.
- Easy to use (7in) touchscreen console and “one-touch buttons” on the sides which allow quick adjustments
- Unlike other NordicTrack treadmills, this one has a tablet holder so you can stream tv or workout as you exercise, which can be particularly useful if you choose to discontinue the iFIT membership.
- 10 year frame, 2 year parts, and 1 year labor warranty
Considerations
- The touchscreen monitor and bluetooth connectivity is only compatible with the iFIT app and specific heart rate monitors
- If you want to continue your iFIT membership after your one month free trial, it is $39/month
- If you were looking for a more immersive workout experience, especially with the scenic iFIT workouts, there are other models with a bigger screen
Cost
$1099
30 day return policy
3. SunnyHealthFitness Auto Incline Treadmill
Overview
The SunnyHealthFitness Auto Incline Treadmill offers an even more compact design than the last design (smallest footprint on this list). This feature makes it an excellent choice for those with limited space.
This treadmill stands out as a budget-friendly option, ideal for individuals seeking a straightforward treadmill with incline capability.
Regardless of the minimalist design, it still includes convenient features such as bluetooth connectivity, a device holder, and pulse sensors.
Additionally, if you see someone using this treadmill, it may seem like it has a more “bouncy” give (which isn’t noticeable during use) – this is part of its double deck designs (that is meant to aid with shock absorption).
Overall, as long as the treadmill specifications, including weight capacity and speed ranges, align with your needs, the SunnyHealthFitness Auto Incline Treadmill is a solid buy!
Specifications
Top Features
- Lightweight and compact design makes storage easy
- Bluetooth connectivity so you can play your favorite playlists through the treadmill speakers
- Includes built-in pulse sensors
- Affordable
- Nice to haves: device holder, 12 built-in workout programs, and bottle holder.
- 3 Year structural frame, 180 days other parts and components warrenty
Considerations
- May seem small for taller people (exact dimensions are 64.5 in L x 28 in W)
- Watch the weight capacity (240lb)
- For people with high running volume, there are more heavy-duty treadmills with more powerful motors.
- If your goals involve running at speeds faster than 8 mph, there are other options for you
Cost
$499.99
30 day return policy
4. BowFlex Treadmill 10
Overview
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 positions itself as a high-end option in the market with its 10 inch touchscreen monitor and simple to use features.
One distinctive feature of the Bowflex Treadmill 10 is its “negative incline” option, which allows users to experience the effects of downhill walking or running (which stimulates eccentric muscular control).
Even at high speeds, the Bowflex Treadmill 10 remains exceptionally stable, thanks to its robust build and quality construction.
Bowflex treadmills come with a complimentary two-month membership to the JRNY program, Bowflex’s proprietary workout platform. Similar to the NordicTrack iFIT, the JRNY program offers real-time feedback and guidance from expert coaches (along with many other pre-recorded workouts options), allowing a more integrative approach.
One standout feature of the JRNY program is its compatibility with streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video, accessible directly through the treadmill’s 10-inch touchscreen display. This allows users to enjoy their favorite shows or movies while working out.
It’s worth noting that Bowflex offers a similar treadmill with a larger 22-inch screen (bowflex treadmill 22) for those who prioritize an even more immersive viewing experience – albeit at a higher cost.
Specifications
Top Features
- Stable and robust design
- Features negative incline (or decline) options
- 10 inch touchscreen display
- Inclusion of 2 months of JRNY program, which includes expert trainer-led workouts with real time feedback, workout library, and compatibility with Netflix and Prime Video
- Includes pulse monitors on hand grips as well as a bluetooth armband that tracks heart rate (more accurate)
- Built-in fan with 3 speeds
- 15 year frame, 5 year mechanical parts, 2 year labor, and 1 year electronics & HD touchscreen warranty.
Considerations
- The touchscreen is not able to be lowered or adjusted, so if you were trying to watch the TV while using the treadmill, your view may be partially blocked by the touchscreen console (unless the tv is higher mounted). Alternatively, you can place your phone or tablet
- The JRNY membership is $19.99 per month after your two month free trial
- Heavier treadmill and takes up more space (exact dimensions are 85 in L x 34” W)
Cost
$1499
5. Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill
Overview
The Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill offers a straightforward and compact design similar to the SunnyHealthFitness Auto Incline Treadmill, but with a slightly more robust build. Its user-friendly interface and straightforward operation are widely appreciated by users.
Compared to other treadmills, the Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill would be considered mid to low-tech. Regardless, it still incorporates Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect their devices to the treadmill’s speakers for audio playback during workouts. So, users can utilize the device holder to place their phone or tablet for easy access to streaming services on your device. Additionally, the console is low enough that most people should comfortably be able to watch the TV during their workout without the treadmill blocking their view.
In essence, this treadmill is ideal for those who prefer a straightforward and easy to use treadmill with incline capabilities while avoiding unnecessary extras.
Specifications
Top Features
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to use treadmill with dial controls for speed and incline
- Easy folding and unfolding: when unfolding, lever releases the platform, and the walking platform will gently lower down. Similarly, this helps lift the walking platform during folding
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Budget-friendly price
- Other nice to haves: device holder, cooling fan, USB charging port
Considerations
- For those seeking a more interactive or immersive workout experience, there are other options
- For people with high running volume, there are more heavy-duty treadmills with more powerful motors.
Cost
$649
30 day return policy
6. Xterra Fitness TR 6.6 Treadmill
Overview
The XTERRA Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill is designed with durability and user-friendliness in mind, making it a standout option for those seeking a sturdy build for their home gym.
With a higher weight capacity compared to other models, this treadmill is built to withstand rigorous workouts while accommodating users of varying sizes and fitness levels. If you were planning on using your treadmill for higher running volumes, such as training for a marathon, this treadmill is a good bet.
Beyond its durability and user-friendly design, the XTERRA Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill is well-liked for its smooth and quiet operation.
Specifications
Top Features
- Durable built – great for high running volumes
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Includes hand pulse sensors
- Other nice to haves: device rack, cooling fan, 12 different workout programs, and built-in speakers
- Lifetime frame and motor, 5 years deck, 2 years part, and 1 year in-home labor warranty
Considerations
- Pricier option than others on this list
- If you value a more interactive experience, that allows compatibility with fitness apps, there are other options for you.
Cost
$1599.99
7. NordicTrack Commercial X32i
Overview
The NordicTrack Commercial X32i Treadmill sets itself apart with its extraordinary incline capabilities, reaching up to an impressive 40% maximum incline setting – making it a high incline treadmill (most treadmills reach 10-12% max incline). Additionally, it offers a unique “negative incline” or decline option, which simulates downhill walking or running, engaging eccentric muscular control for a comprehensive workout experience.
Designed for serious runners and fitness/tech enthusiasts, this treadmill boasts a robust build and is equipped with advanced features. Its 32-inch touchscreen display provides a spacious and immersive interface for accessing iFIT workouts.
As is typical with NordicTrack home gym equipment, the purchase of the Commercial X32i Treadmill comes with a one-month free trial of the iFIT app. iFIT offers a comprehensive range of workouts, each led by fitness experts or certified personal trainers, including both live sessions around the world and a vast library of pre-recorded routines. During live workouts, trainers can make automatic adjustments to the treadmill settings with the user’s permission.
Bluetooth connectivity allows users to connect their headphones to the audio from the touch screen console, where iFIT workouts are displayed.
Specifications
Top Features
- Insane incline (and negative incline) capabilities
- Very study, durable, and made for serious runners
- Allows bluetooth headphone connectivity to iFIT workouts (1 month free trial) and specific heart rate monitors.
- The 32” touchscreen console allows an immersive iFIT workout experience
- Has workout fan
- 10 year frame, 2 year parts, and 1 year labor warranty
Considerations
- Expensive
- Heavy treadmill and takes up more space; Also has high step height
- Does not fold
- The touchscreen monitor and bluetooth connectivity is only compatible with the iFIT app and specific heart rate monitors. If you want to continue your iFIT membership after your one month free trial, it is $39/month
- There isn’t a designated spot to rest a smartphone or tablet on the console. However, if you adjust the touchscreen downward slightly, a narrow ledge emerges at its base where it no longer aligns perfectly with the rest of the console – giving you a space to place your device.
Cost
$4499
Benefits of Incline Treadmill Training (vs Flat Treadmill Training)
Incorporating incline to your treadmill workouts can significantly elevate the intensity of your workouts. As such, there are many benefits of incline treadmill workouts, notably the ones listed below!
Increased Cardiovascular Challenge
Incline workouts place greater demands on the lower body musculature, leading to increased oxygen demand by these muscles during workouts. As a result, the cardiovascular system must work harder to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the muscles, leading to a natural elevation in heart rate. Plus, you have the option to make it a low impact exercise if you choose to walk or brisk walk instead of jogging/running.
Improved Muscular Endurance Of Lower Body Muscles
Walking or running on an incline presents a greater challenge to the lower body muscles, particularly engaging the glutes and hamstrings to a higher degree than flat surface exercises. This heightened engagement is why individuals often experience a distinct “burn” sensation in these muscles while tackling uphill terrains.
Over time, this increased resistance contributes to the development of greater endurance in the posterior chain muscles, enhancing overall lower body strength and stability.
Higher Calorie Burn
Incline training requires more effort from both your muscles and cardiovascular system, leading to a higher overall energy expenditure during your workout. As a result, you burn more calories compared to flat treadmill training.
That said, whether you are new to incline treadmill exercise or new to exercise in general, it is best to take things at a gradual pace and ease into an exercise program. Afterall consistency is arguably one of the most important aspects of exercise and long term well being.
What about incline treadmill in comparison to other cardio equipment?
When it comes to cardio exercise equipment, the options are plentiful, catering to diverse fitness preferences and goals. Among the myriad choices available, two popular choices stand out: the treadmill and the exercise bike. Deciding between the two ultimately boils down to your individual preferences and fitness objectives.
Whether you prioritize high-intensity interval training, endurance building, or low-impact workouts, understanding the nuances between treadmills and exercise bikes is pivotal in making an informed decision that resonates with your fitness journey.
Bottomline
There is an incline trainer out there for everyone, and the options presented here offer fantastic choices.
Ultimately, the best incline treadmill for you depends on your unique preferences and fitness goals.
Whether you prioritize advanced features, simplicity, or just want to be more active while watching TV, there’s a perfect match waiting to elevate your workout routine.
