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Using a treadmill on an incline can be an excellent way to achieve your fitness goals. In fact, a recent study1 showed that when you run on an incline, you increase your heart rate and burn more calories than you would on a flat surface at the same pace.
If you want to reap the benefits of some of the best treadmill workouts, check out our list of the eight best incline treadmills on the market. We ran, walked, and jogged on each of the machines on this list to rate them on factors such as the following:
- Customizations: Are there ample incline and speed ranges?
- Durability: Does the machine have a high weight capacity, and is it stable while in use?
- Ergonomics: Is there a cushioned deck? Is the cushioning abundant enough to enhance your run or walk?
- Incline: How much of an incline does it go up to, and how many degrees are there?
We have used or researched more than 50 of the best treadmills across our workout programs. Our team of certified personal trainers, competitive triathletes, and CrossFit Level 1 Trainers personally tested more than 20 specifically to find the best incline treadmill for home.
8 Best Incline Treadmills
- Best Incline Treadmill Overall: Sole F63 Treadmill
- Best High-Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
- Best Incline Treadmill for Running: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
- Best Budget Incline Treadmill: MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill
- Best Sled Treadmill: Xebex SledTrac 6000
- Best Incline Treadmill for Walking: Peloton Tread
- Best Foldable Treadmill With Incline: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
- Best Compact Incline Treadmill: Echelon Stride-6
Best Incline Treadmill Video Review

Compare Side by Side
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Sole F63 | NordicTrack X24 | Horizon 7.0 AT | MERACH T12 | Xebex SledTrac 6000 | Peloton Tread | NordicTrack Commercial 1750 | Echelon Stride-6 | |
Rating Our expert product testers, who include certified personal trainers and coaches, use a multi-point testing methodology to determine average ratings out of 5 stars. | ||||||||
Speed Range | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0 – 12 mph | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0.8 – 7.5 mph | 0.3 – 12.5 mph | 0 – 12.5 mph | 0 – 12 mph | 0 – 12.5 mph |
Incline Range | 15 levels | -6% – 40% | 0% – 15% | 3 levels | Up to 10% | 0% – 12.5% | -3% – 12% | 12 levels |
Deck Size | 60″ L x 20″ W | 60″ L x 20″ W | 60″ L x 22″ W | 41.3″ L x 16.5″ W | 61″ L x 22″ W | 59″ L x 20″ W | 60″ L x 22″ W | 60″ L x 20.5″ W |
Foldable? | — | — | — | |||||
Programs | Sole+ app (must use your own device) | iFIT | 8 preset programs | Access to the MERACH app | N/A | Peloton | iFIT | Echelon Fit (must use your own device) |
Display | 6.5″ backlit LCD | 24″ pivoting touchscreen | 7.25″ high contrast LCD screen | LED screen | LED screen | 23.8″ full HD touchscreen | Pivoting 16″ touchscreen | Extra large device holder |
Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor; 2-year parts, deck, and wear items; 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | Lifetime motor, 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor | 3-year frame, 1-year parts | 5-year frame, 2-year parts | 5-year frame, 3-year motor and belt, 1-year touchscreen and most original components | Lifetime motor, 10-year frame, 2-year parts and electronics, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 5-year motor, 1-year comprehensive |
Best Incline Treadmill Overall: Sole F63 Treadmill
Good for: Those who need to be able to easily fold their cardio machine
Best Overall
Sole F63 Treadmill

Product Highlights
- Folding treadmill
- Costs around $1,200
- Bluetooth speakers, USB port, and cooling fans
- Powerful 3.0 HP motor
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Financing is available
- Bluetooth speakers
- USB port
- Device holder
- 15 different levels of incline
- Cushioned deck
- 20" W x 60" L belt
- 325-lb weight capacity
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Cons
- Heavy machine
- No touchscreen
Bottom Line
The Sole F63 Treadmill is an affordable option for people who want a powerful, reliable machine that folds without breaking their budget.
Best High-Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
Good for: Those looking for extreme incline levels
Best High-Incline
NordicTrack X24 Treadmill

Product Highlights
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Monitor doesn’t wobble even when running at top speeds
- High-quality speakers
- Large belt deck of 60″ x 22″
- Lifetime warranty on the motor
- 400-lb weight capacity
- Monitor has streaming capabilities
- Can create custom, simulated maps with Google Maps
Cons
- Expensive at around $4,500
- Handlebars are a little slippery
- Cushioning could be better
- High step-up height of over 13″
- Weighs over 400 lbs in the box
Bottom Line
The new NordicTrack X24 Treadmill has an impressive incline/decline range of -6% to 40% and features an impressive 24-inch touchscreen monitor with high-quality speakers. It includes several conveniences, like water bottle holders and a cooling fan that adjusts automatically based on the intensity of your iFIT class. However, the $4,500 price tag is steep, and this large, heavy treadmill could be difficult to move around.
Best Incline Treadmill for Running: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Good for: Serious runners who incorporate HIIT training into their running programs
Best For Running
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

Product Highlights
- Priced under $1,000
- Spacious 60-inch running deck
- Bluetooth connectivity
- QuickDial controls for both the speed and incline
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 60” running surface
- 3.0 CHP motor
- Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Nike Running Club
- 325 lb weight limit
Cons
- Heavy machine at over 250 lbs
- No included touchscreen
- 3-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranties are less than the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Bottom Line
For under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great option for people who want to use their treadmill to run.
Best Budget Incline Treadmill: MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill
Good for: People who need an inexpensive treadmill with incline
Best Budget
MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill

Product Highlights
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Foldable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Max speed of 7.5 MPH
- Max user weight is 265 pound, below the industry standard
Bottom Line
The Merach T12 Treadmill is an affordable and foldable treadmill that's perfect for people who aren't serious runners.
Best Sled Treadmill: Xebex SledTrac 6000
Good for: Runners who want a sled drag incorporated into their training
Best Sled Treadmill
Xebex SledTrac 6000

Product Highlights
- Treadmill with sled drag options
- 6 different training modes
- Incline and decline training
- Basic display
- Bluetooth connectivity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 6 ways to train
- Belt runs backwards and forwards
- Safety key included
- Pulse sensors for heart rate
- Bluetooth connectivity to chest straps or apps
Cons
- Hefty price tag
- Large footprint
- No built-in touchscreen
Bottom Line
The XEBEX SLEDTRAC 6000 is a home gym dream. Within one footprint you can walk, jog, run, and sled drag. Plus, this treadmill has 15 levels of incline training and the ability to use the machine forwards or backwards. That also means you can sled drag forwards and backwards.
Best Incline Treadmill for Walking: Peloton Tread
Good for: Those who would rather walk than run
Best for Walking
Peloton Tread

Product Highlights
- Powerful 3.0 CHP motor
- Carbon steel construction
- Top speeds of 12.5 MPH
- 23.5″ HD touchscreen display
- Incline training
- Non-folding
- Live and on-demand classes
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Interactive, responsive HD touchscreen display
- Access to thousands of workouts via Peloton
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Front speakers and rear woofers for great sound
- Big range of speed and incline
- Carbon steel frame
- Intuitive controls
- Red line centered on running deck ensures good running mechanics
- Sleek design
- Improved safety features: Tread lock, emergency stop button, stop-sensor technology in belt and a safety key
Cons
- Disappointing warranty
- No decline
- No pre-programmed workout so need to purchase membership to Peloton
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Smaller console
- Minimal cushioning
- No cooling fans (not a deal breaker but it would be nice)
- Smaller running deck compared to similarly priced treadmills
Bottom Line
After several recalls back in 2021, Peloton recently released this new treadmill, the Peloton Tread, with improved safety measures. Perhaps best known for its wide range of live and on-demand classes, the Peloton Tread is a fantastic way to train indoors and stay motivated. The easy-to-use, interactive touchscreen provides access to a library of workouts and leaderboards that truly brings training to a new level.Powered by a 3.0 horsepower motor, the Tread reaches speeds up to 12.5 mph and inclines up to 12.5%; impressive numbers by any standard. Constructed from carbon steel, the Tread has a sleek, compact design that is as sturdy as it is attractive. While the price tag is steep, it could be a worthwhile investment for your home gym if it fits your budget.
Best Foldable Treadmill With Incline: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Good for: Runners or those who want a treadmill with a high-quality, HD touchscreen
Best Foldable
NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Product Highlights
- Spacious running deck
- Compatible with iFIT
- 14-inch touchscreen
- Incline and decline training
- Financing available
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compatible with iFIT
- 3.5 CHP motor
- Free trial of iFIT subscription with purchase
- Treadmill with incline and decline training
- Foldable to save space (EasyLift Assist)
- Run that feels similar to road running
- Financing options available through NordicTrack
- Generous speed range
- Wide running deck
- Cooling fan
Cons
- Big footprint
- Heavy and not the easiest to move
- Price is around $2,000
- Warranty is voided if the treadmill is used/stored in a garage
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
Best Compact Incline Treadmill: Echelon Stride-6
Good for: Anyone looking for a space-saving treadmill
Best Compact
Echelon Stride-6

Product Highlights
- Auto-fold
- 12.5 incline levels
- No assembly required
- Cushioned running deck
- 300-lb user weight capacity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Folds and unfolds with the push of a button
- No assembly
- Vertical and horizontal transport wheels
- Bluetooth compatible
Cons
- Screen not included
- 1-year warranty for most customers (Echelon Premier members get a 5-year warranty)
Bottom Line
The Echelon Stride 6 has all the features you'd expect in a heavy-duty treadmill, along with auto-fold technology and zero assembly.
Other Treadmills We Recommend
Are none of these incline treadmills getting the job done for you? Check out some of our other roundups to find more great options:
- Best Treadmill Under $500
- Best Folding Treadmill
- Best Walking Treadmill
- Best Manual Treadmill
- Best Cushioned Treadmill
- Best Treadmill for Home Gym

How We Picked And Tested The Best Incline Treadmills
Curious how we chose the best incline treadmills? We have an in-depth fitness equipment testing methodology that we apply to all products we recommend. Check out the questions we asked ourselves to determine if a treadmill makes the cut:
- Incline options: What incline options are there? What is the maximum incline? How does this compare to others in the same price range? Are they automatic or manual incline? Are there any decline options?
- Speed levels How fast can this treadmill go and what is the max speed? How does this compare to similar models?
- Weight capacity: What is the user weight capacity? How does it compare to the industry standard 300-pound user weight capacity?
- Handrail: Does it have one or two sets of handrails?
- Dimensions: What is the footprint of this machine? Does the machine store well?
- Foldability: Can the machine be folded? Is there a gas shock for safe folding?
- Technology: Does the machine feature interactive programming? Are there Bluetooth speakers or any other type of technology features the reader should be aware of? Is there a free iFIT membership trial?
- Display: Is the display LCD or a touchscreen display? How large is the screen? Are there any preset training programs on the display?
- Portability: Can the machine be moved easily? Are there included transport wheels? Is it a compact treadmill or good for small spaces?
- Weight: How heavy is the machine? Can it be moved by one person or will you need an extra set of hands?
- Motor: What horsepower does the motor have?
- Deck: Is the deck shock-absorbing? How large is the running deck/what are the dimensions?
- Price: How expensive is the treadmill? Is it a budget, mid-range, or high-end option?
- Extras: What extras does this treadmill have? Is there a tablet holder, phone holder, or water bottle holder? Does the treadmill come with a heart rate monitor? Does it have a cooling fan or speakers?
- Assembly: Can you pay for professional assembly? How much is professional assembly? Is it easy to assemble by yourself or will you need help? How long did it take you to assemble?

Benefits of Incline Treadmills
Treadmill benefits are wide-ranging, but incline treadmills have their own unique set of positives. GGR performance editor and certified personal trainer Anthony O’Reilly has the 4-1-1.
“Incline treadmills offer all the same benefits as your good old-fashioned treadmills, with a few bonuses,” Anthony explains.
Works Your Posterior Chain
“Running or walking on an incline treadmill works your posterior chain (glutes and hamstrings), as well as your calves, which can help tone those muscles. And because your body is working harder when climbing an incline, you’re burning more calories than you would on a flat treadmill.
Incline treadmills can also prepare you for real-life situations like climbing a long flight of stairs or a rigorous mountain hike.”
Increases Caloric Burn
Because climbing a hill, no matter how small it is, burns more calories than walking on a flat surface, incline treadmills provide an effective way to increase your overall caloric burn. A recent 2022 study1 found that walking at a 6% incline was better for energy expenditure than walking at a 0% incline and is more effective at preventing and reducing obesity.
Workout Versatility
One underrated benefit of incline treadmills is that they make your workouts more fun. Check out our guide to the best incline treadmill workouts if you need some inspiration.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Incline Treadmills
Finding a quality treadmill can be tricky, but luckily, we’re here to help. Here are five things to consider before purchasing a new treadmill.
Incline Options
If you’re someone who enjoys incline runs or walks, you’ll need to make sure your new treadmill can support your habits. Most treadmills above $1,500 have a wide range of incline options. However, if your budget is on the lower side, you’ll need to pay special attention to the included incline levels, as not all inexpensive treadmills have them.
Price Tag
Considering your budget is one of the most important steps to finding a treadmill that will work for you. If you’re set on a machine that you can’t afford all at once, check to see if there are financing options available. Many brands like NordicTrack and ProForm offer excellent payment plans to help you break up the cost.
Weight Capacity
Especially if you plan to share your new treadmill with family and friends of different sizes, finding a machine with a high weight capacity is a must. The industry standard for user weight capacity is 300 pounds, but you may need more or less depending on who will be using the machine.
Footprint
Deciding ahead of time where your treadmill will live will help you narrow down your list of potential machines. Do you need your new cardio machine to fold or have a small footprint? Do you have the capacity to leave the treadmill out 24/7? These are important questions to ask yourself to avoid buying a treadmill that doesn’t actually fit in your space.
Speed Range
If you enjoy HIIT, you’ll want to choose a treadmill that has a wide range of speeds. For those folks who prefer a slow jog or a walk, speed range will be less important to you. Decide what you plan to do on your treadmill ahead of time, so you can find a machine that fits your preferences.
Best Incline Treadmill: FAQs
What is the best incline for weight loss?
There is no magical level of incline you should use to lose weight. In tandem with a nutritious diet, treadmill workouts (and strength training) can help you lose weight. However, you should always talk to your doctor or a licensed medical professional before starting a weight-loss routine.
What is the most effective incline on a treadmill?
That depends on your goal: When thinking about burning calories, the faster you go at a high incline, the more calories you’ll burn. If you’re concerned with building aerobic endurance, it may be better to utilize a lower incline—like 1% or 2%—to mimic running outdoors. Find what works for you—and what you can maintain—and stick with it.
What is the 12-3-30 workout?
The 12-3-20 workout is a treadmill workout where you walk at a 12% incline at 3 miles per hour for 30 minutes. This workout gained popularity a few years ago on social media and is an effective low-impact workout that even beginners can execute to increase their step count each day.
References
- Ahn HN, Lee MG, Jung WS. Effects of gradient and age on energy expenditure and fat metabolism during aerobic exercise at equal intensity in women. Phys Act Nutr. 2022 Mar;26(1):20-27. doi: 10.20463/pan.2022.0004. Epub 2022 Mar 31. PMID: 35510442; PMCID: PMC9081356.
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