Did you know that walking on a treadmill with incline can burn up to twice as many calories as on a flat surface? Your body works harder because more—and larger—muscle groups are engaged. This makes incline walking even more effective than running when it comes to fat burning.
Treadmill with or without incline
One of the biggest differences between treadmills—besides top speed—is whether they offer an incline function. A basic treadmill often has no incline or only a manual option with a small foot. More advanced, professional models (such as the SportsHero RunningPad Pro) usually do. The incline range then becomes a key factor in choosing. Below, you’ll learn what different incline percentages mean for your results.
Manual or automatic incline
Few treadmills include incline, especially in the lower price segment. You may occasionally find a manual incline there. Step up a level, and you’ll see automatic incline. It’s not only more convenient; it also lets you adjust the incline percentage. With manual incline you often have only two choices: no incline or incline.
Treadmill with manual incline
With manual incline, small feet under the deck fold in or out. Folded in: no incline. Folded out: you can walk uphill. Advantage: no extra motor, so the treadmill is lighter. Downsides: only a few positions and no adjustments mid-workout. The maximum incline is also usually limited.
Treadmill with automatic incline
With automatic incline, there’s a second motor in the treadmill. The first controls speed; the second, the incline. This lets you change incline during your session. Another plus: multiple levels. The SportsHero Pro series, for example, offers 6 incline levels, adjustable via the remote (and on the RunningPad Pro also with the handlebar buttons). This way you can gradually build your walk or run. Plus, the maximum incline is often higher than with manual systems.
Higher fat burning with incline
Why does incline burn more fat? It’s about the muscles used and the intensity. “Uphill,” your muscles work harder, and additional groups kick in to support the climb. Your glutes, hamstrings, and calves are especially targeted—great for training these areas. Bonus: these muscles remain active for a while post-workout, so you keep burning calories.
Tip: Stay in the fat-burn zone: keep your heart rate around 60–75% of max.
Bottom line: Choose a treadmill with incline!
