When you get into the mid-priced treadmills you'll start to see elevations of 12-15%. And in most premium treadmills you'll find inclines of mostly 15%.
If you're in top shape and/or really want a challenge, then you'll probably want a 15% incline. However if you just want a treadmill for gentle walking, a 10% incline might suit you perfectly.
(For some of the best incline treadmills in all price ranges, check out our Best Treadmill Buys)
Of course, the mother of incline machines is the incline trainer treadmill. These machines give you up to 40% incline. You can burn as much as 3 times the calories or approximately 500 calories in 20 minutes and super-charge your workout results.
You've probably heard about the Bowflex Treadclimber. This is one version of an incline tread mill. Nordic Track also has an incline trainer available that lets you walk on inclines of up to 40% and it also doubles as a treadmill.
So what are the benefits to high treadmill inclines?
Walking on an incline can help super-blast your calorie burn. You can burn up to twice or even 3 times the calories by walking on an incline vs. walking on a level surface.
Plus if you're looking to build intervals into your workout, walking on an incline for 30 seconds to 2 minutes can be a great way to interval train and boost your calorie burning after working out.
So in general an incline on a treadmill can help you get toned and fit much faster than simply walking on a level surface.
Regardless of which incline percentage you choose, just remember to wear high quality running shoes and enjoy your workout!
More Incline Treadmill Resources:
Most people buying a treadmill want one with an incline (also called treadmill elevation).
Walking on an incline burns a lot more calories than walking on a flat plan. So you can get faster results by building incline walking into your workouts.
It used to be that incline on a treadmill was a bonus feature. However today, most motorized treadmills come with an incline option.
The difference seems to be in the amount of elevation available.
If you're looking for an economy treadmill (under $1000) you'll probably find most treadmills only come with a 10% incline (however that can be enough for many people).
