Ideal for power walking, incline trainers are popular, versatile fitness machines which can simultaneously support cardio training, rapid calorie burn and targeted muscle toning. They’re quite low impact on joints compared to treadmills, so can be a great option for those looking for a low impact workout.
A steep maximum incline is the key feature of an incline trainer; their workout surfaces can tilt by up to 30-40%, while traditional treadmills top out at a 20% slope. The diverse slope settings of incline trainers allow them to serve as a treadmill, an elliptical trainer, or a stair stepper. If you’re looking for a machine with even more variation, many incline trainers have decline settings too.
Only a few fitness brands manufacture incline trainers, so shopping for one is easier than shopping for a traditional treadmill. Nevertheless, to make your search easier, below you’ll find our top picks of incline trainers for home gyms and commercial fitness centres this year. Ready to dig deeper into the details of a particular incline trainer? Click on one of the links below to read our review of each model.
If you are on the hunt for a Commercial treadmill, the X11i by NordicTrack is an undeniably impressive option. This treadmill prides itself on being able to hit a remarkable incline of 40%, taking your training up a notch beyond what other treadmills offer. It’s also iFit compatible, which is a hugely popular application that transforms workouts from something that you may dread to adventurous user experiences. This should increase adherence rates for most users and if you stick with your sessions, you’ll see better results over time. What We Like: Price: This treadmill, while more expensive than some of the... Read More
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NordicTrack's high-powered Incline Trainer treadmill, the X22i, features a super-sized 22-inch wide touchscreen, a powerful 4.0 CHP motor and 50 preset workout programs to fuel your fitness needs. Read More
The NordicTrack Commercial X32i is as good as it gets when it comes to incline trainers. We aren’t talking about the standard 12 to 15% incline of conventional commercial treadmills here. This thing goes up to an incline of 40%, which borders on rude, but also makes it a seriously aggressive training unit. Like all NordicTrack units of late, it works seamlessly with iFit, the brand’s streaming training service. As of the latest update, the machine comes with a year-long family membership built into the deal. With some highly advanced features and just a few drawbacks, this will be a... Read More
See best price »| Model | Type | Rating | Price | Lowest Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordicTrack Commercial X11i | Non-Folding | 4.8-stars | Under $1,000 | See best price » |
| NordicTrack Commercial X22i | Non-Folding | 4.65-stars | Over $2,500 | See best price » |
| NordicTrack Commercial X32i | Non-Folding | 4.95-stars | Under $1,000 | See best price » |
Walking or running on an incline is a great way to increase the intensity of your workout, which can help you burn fat fast. When walking or running on an incline, your body is working harder and burning more calories than if you were doing the same on a flat surface. Incline training can be a more efficient way of reaching your fitness goals.
Incline settings for optimal results will vary depending on your fitness level and goals. A good place to start is 2% - 3% incline and gradually increase the incline as necessary. Always listen to your body or consult a physician or fitness trainer.
In general, walking or running on a treadmill is better for your joints than running outdoors. According to a study by the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, increasing treadmill incline by 3% reduces the impact that the legs must absorb by about 24%.
Best for Home Use
Best for Serious Runners
Best for Walkers
Best for Seniors