Running Up That Hill: The Best Incline Treadmills For 2022

A lot of people have been asking what are the best incline treadmills for home gyms so here’s a quick, handy guide to 2025’s top running machines that do just that. There are huge benefits to hill running and if you’re buying a new machine worth its salt, you’ll definitely one that gets this right.

1JLL S300 Digital Folding Treadmill

Best Overall

"Good value for money, quiet and well-built with a 5-inch LCD monitor."

1. Incline Levels: 20
2. Motor Power: 4.5HP
3. Max Speed: 16 km/h
4. Max Weight: 120kg

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2Branx Fitness Foldable Elite Runner Pro Soft Drop System Treadmill

Runner Up

"Quiet operation with excellent stability and easy incline adjustment."

1. Incline Levels: 0-22 Level Auto Incline
2. Motor Power: 6.5 HP peak
3. Max Speed: 21 km/h
4. Max Weight: 160kg

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3Branx Fitness NEW Compact Foldable Energy Pro Treadmill

"Compact design with smooth auto incline and user-friendly features praised by customers."

1. Incline Levels: 0-16 Level Auto Incline
2. Motor Power: 5 hp
3. Max Speed: 16.5 km/h
4. Max Weight: 125kg

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4Branx Fitness LIMITED EDITION Foldable StartRun Treadmill

"Sturdy build with easy assembly and reliable performance."

1. Incline Levels: 0-16 Levels Automatic Incline
2. Motor Power: 5 Horsepower
3. Max Speed: 16.5 km/h
4. Max Weight: 125kg (19 STONE)

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Amazon UK

It’s becoming far more common to see even budget treadmills coming with powered incline as an option straight out of the box.

When you look at the benefits, the reasons are obvious. Walking or running on even a very slight incline carries so many health and fitness benefits that, if you have the option to train like this, you probably should.

Pair this with high-quality exercise equipment becoming much more affordable and the reason why so many treadmills are boasting of their ability to move their running deck upwards as if you’re hill training is obvious.

But actually making a decision about which treadmill to buy is surprisingly complicated. There are a huge amount of differences in what should be a relatively simple system. This guide goes deep into what you should be looking for when buying an incline treadmill, as well as some of the best incline treadmills available on the market right now, from budget machines all the way up to the very best of the bunch.

2022’s Best Treadmills For Incline Running

Top Pick

JLL S300 Digital Folding Treadmill

Overall Best Incline Treadmill

Sturdy and reliable, ideal for people looking for versatile incline workouts. Worth buying for its extensive speed range and comfortable design.

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What we liked:

The JLL S300 Digital Folding Treadmill stands out for its versatile features, making it a solid choice for home workouts. I appreciated the powerful 4.5HP motor combined with 20 incline levels. This adds variety and challenge to my routines. The speed range, from 0.3 to 16 km/h, accommodates both walking and running. The 16-point cushion deck makes for a comfortable experience by reducing impact on the joints.

Additionally, the JLL S300 boasts a comprehensive 5-inch LCD monitor, which provides vital workout metrics. Users benefit from the auto incline feature, making transitions smooth and the built-in speakers provide good entertainment options. Its foldable design is practical too, especially for limited spaces. Safety isn't overlooked. It comes with a host of certifications like ROHS and CE and a safety clip that ensures peace of mind.

What we didn't like:

There are a few downsides. Some users noted issues with the paint finish on the control module. While cosmetic, it could be better. Also, the assembly process can be a bit tricky and might require patience. Bluetooth connectivity seems unreliable for some. I couldn’t connect initially. These aren't dealbreakers but are worth noting for potential buyers.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

Compared to others in its category, the JLL S300 holds its ground well. Its 20 incline levels and powerful motor are noteworthy. They make it a high-performing model. While some treadmills offer larger LCD displays, the S300 balances features with a space-saving design. This sets it apart from bulkier counterparts. The extensive warranty further elevates its value.

The JLL S300 is an excellent choice for those wanting a versatile home treadmill. It's well-suited for varied workouts thanks to its incline and speed options. If you're after durability and space-efficiency, this could be your ideal match.

Runner up

Branx Fitness Foldable Elite Runner Pro Soft Drop System Treadmill

Runner Up Incline Treadmill

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for intense home workouts. Suited for fitness users looking for variability and convenience.

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What we liked:

The Branx Fitness Elite Runner Pro captivates with its standout features, especially the 0-22 level auto incline, which is perfect for challenging workouts. The treadmill boasts a 6.5 HP peak motor, reaching speeds up to 21 km/h. I appreciate the 140 x 48 cm running area, which is spacious and comfortable. The dual shock 10-point absorption system ensures improved joint protection. It's great for users aiming for optimum performance without joint stress.

The one-touch speed and incline adjustments on the handrails are convenient, allowing seamless transitions during exercise. Plus, it’s foldable and easy to move with its hydraulic strut and wheels. This is a big win for home users.

What we didn't like:

The Branx Fitness Elite Runner Pro, while excellent, lacks an advanced display. It only has a 6-inch LCD screen. Some might find the design too basic for metric tracking users, though it handles essentials well. Users noted it’s quiet and stable. However, without a modern touchscreen, it may not suit tech-focused users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the treadmill excels in performance and build quality.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

This treadmill stands out with its incline options and robust motor. Compared to similar models, its 73kg max user weight is impressive. The inclusion of 24 built-in programs and Bluetooth adds versatility. It's formidable in its category. The treadmill offers more incline levels and durability than many of its peers.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Branx Fitness Elite Runner Pro is a powerhouse for incline treadmill users. Perfect for anyone from beginners to seasoned runners, it combines durability, performance and ease of use. This makes it a reliable choice for intense workouts.

Branx Fitness NEW Compact Foldable Energy Pro Treadmill

Best compact treadmill with auto incline

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for adults who seek a space-saving treadmill with smooth auto incline and easy assembly. This compact treadmill is worth buying for versatile in-home workout needs.

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The Branx Fitness 'Energy Pro' treadmill stands out with its compact, foldable design, making it perfect for home use where space is often limited. The powerful 5 hp motor provides smooth operation, reaching speeds up to 16.5 km/h. It includes an auto incline feature with 16 levels, ensuring varied workouts. What impressed me most is its user-friendly interface and integrated technology, from Bluetooth connectivity to built-in speakers. The soft drop system allows for easy folding and the generous running area accommodates a variety of users.

Additionally, the treadmill is easy to assemble and features excellent shock absorption for comfortable exercise whether walking or running. The Branx Fitness customer service is highly praised, offering prompt support and a 30-day return policy, enhancing the overall experience.

However, not everything is perfect. Some users found the treadmill's handles a bit limiting, especially if they are taller or have a wider build, as they might occasionally hit their hands against them. The console, although functional with its 5-inch LCD display, isn't as advanced as some might hope. There were also mentions of the loud beep during speed changes, which could be an annoyance for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the running experience generally remains positive.

In comparison to other treadmills, the Branx Fitness 'Energy Pro' offers a robust motor and an impressive incline range, matching up well with higher-end models while keeping the convenience of a foldable design. While some may miss advanced tech features, the treadmill's durability and functionality meet the needs of most home users. Its quick speed and incline changes provide a gym-like experience, making it a competitive choice among home treadmills.

The Branx Fitness 'Energy Pro' treadmill is ideal for adults wanting a space-saving and reliable workout machine. With its powerful motor and robust construction, it’s great for both running and walking users. It offers a good balance of features for home fitness at an attainable price point.

Branx Fitness LIMITED EDITION Foldable StartRun Treadmill

Best treadmill for sturdy construction and ease of use

Durable and foldable treadmill ideal for people looking for a reliable workout machine. Offers smooth performance and simple controls, worth its price for home fitness users.

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What we liked:

The Branx Fitness 'LIMITED EDITION' Foldable StartRun Treadmill is packed with features that stand out, especially for incline treadmill users. With its automatic incline settings (0-16 levels), it's perfect for challenging workouts. The 5 horsepower motor and a speed range from 0.8 to 16.5 km/h allow for varied intensity levels. I appreciate the inclusion of 12 built-in programs, which cater to different fitness goals.

The treadmill's sturdy carbon steel construction and 8-Point Running Deck Absorption System make it feel reliable and smooth underfoot. Users have continuously praised its ease of assembly and user-friendly controls. Branx Fitness has also integrated hand pulse sensors and quick keys for ease of use. The treadmill boasts a luxury running belt with anti-skid features for safety during workouts. With a customer rating of 4.6 stars, it’s clear that this treadmill delivers satisfaction.

What we didn't like:

Despite its many features, some aspects could be improved. There's no media holder or pause button, which might inconvenience users who value entertainment during workouts. A few users noted that it isn't as quiet as expected. Adjustments to the belt tension were necessary early on for some. This could be a minor hassle.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

In the realm of incline treadmills, the Branx Fitness StartRun competes well with others in its category. Its robust construction and myriad of features like the auto incline and numerous preset programs give it an edge. While some treadmills may offer more advanced tech or additional features like media holders, Branx's focus on providing a solid and reliable machine shines here.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

For users looking for a reliable and feature-rich incline treadmill, the Branx Fitness StartRun is a compelling choice. Its sturdy build and automatic incline adjustments make it ideal for challenging workouts. While it misses some modern conveniences, its core features and strong customer service make it a worthwhile investment.

What are the advantages of running on an incline?

The science is absolutely clear on this. If you can train using an incline, even a very slight incline that seems like it should be having no effect, you should be. Here’s why:

Incline training raises intensity without overtraining

When you’re training, for best results you should be looking at pushing your cardiovascular system to anywhere between 60 and 80% of your heart rate maximum. Training on an incline is a great way to do this without having to crank up the speed, which makes it harder to run, is loud, tires you out faster and leads to long term injuries.

Instead, you can enjoy a long, nice stroll that still brings all the benefits of a good workout, with much less intensity. It’s more comfortable and better on your body, without losing out on any of the benefits.

Working different muscles

Having the option to train on an incline lets you work an entirely different set of muscles to running on a flat plane, engaging your calves, hamstrings and glutes far more than walking on a flat surface.

On top of this, the human body isn’t actually designed to run on flat surfaces for long periods of time and doing so leads to a whole bunch of nasty long term issues like shin splints. Even a slight incline of 1-2 degrees can help to mitigate this.

It burns far more calories

Let’s face it, most people are training for one of two reasons. One, to get healthier and fitter, or two, to look better.

Both of these goals require you to burn calories to hit your goals. So, if there was a way to burn more calories without more training, you should take it, right? Right.

The good news is, walking or running on an incline is massively more effective than training on a flat surface, burning up to 50% more calories, while expending far less than 50% more effort.

What to look for when buying an incline treadmill

So we’ve learned that incline training is incredibly effective and buying a treadmill that has the option to incline is the smart play, but how do we know what to buy? Here’s what you should be focusing on:

A powerful motor

The motor is the heart of a treadmill and when you’re buying a treadmill with the option for a powered incline, a more powerful motor is especially important.

This is because the motor will be driving both the belt and the incline system, so it needs to be powerful. It’s so important that the most expensive incline treadmills even have a second, subsidiary motor that does nothing but power the incline.

When looking at how powerful a motor is, expect it to be measured in horsepower (HP) just like a car engine. However, some manufacturers can be dishonest when it comes to how powerful their motors are.

Treadmill motor power is measured in one of two ways. Horsepower (HP) and continuous horsepower (CHP.) When possible, always look for the CHP value of a motor, as this tells you the power that a treadmill can comfortably put out consistently, for hours at a time, rather than in short bursts.

As for how much horsepower to look for? For a treadmill that’s going to be used predominantly for walking and jogging, a 2.5CHP motor is generally sufficient for your needs. If you plan on running at higher speeds and pushing it to the maximum incline possible, look for a motor closer to 4CHP.

Ergonomics and safety

Incline walking or running on a treadmill can be surprisingly difficult, especially at higher levels of both and that goes double at the end of a workout when you’re tired.

With this in mind, make sure that what you’re buying has sufficient and strong supports that go far enough around the running belt, make sure that the running belt has enough length and width for comfortable movement and that there are any comfort and safety features, for example, automatic shut off keys and water bottle holders.

Robust training options

Having the right training options on an incline treadmill means two different things.

One, does it have the capability to monitor your workouts correctly? This means the ability to record all of your metrics, including time trained, at what incline, calories burned and the option for a heart rate sensor. After all, measuring your workouts is one of the fastest ways to improve the quality of your workouts.

Two, does your chosen treadmill have good options for training programs. Almost all high-end fitness companies have brought out interactive fitness apps in the last couple of years and there are several good third-party options, (principal among them Kinomap, full review here.)

The benefits of a solid training program can’t be overstated. You’re going to train harder, with more enthusiasm and be able to hit your goals far faster and more effectively if you train right. We make sure to point out whether a manufacturer has particularly impressive training options with their gear.

Budget

Unfortunately, we’re all constrained by price, otherwise, everyone would have the home gym of their dreams. While high-quality fitness gear is an investment that almost always pays off, if you can get more for less, then you probably should consider doing so.

Our list runs from the most expensive systems on the market to less expensive machines that still stand out due to a combination of smart design ideas and great performance for their cost.

6 quick tips for fun and safe incline running on your new treadmill

I can still feel my thighs burning from doing some treadmill work last night and the main culprit is definitely that incline setting. Here are 5 things I’ve learned using incline on my running machines and other people’s that I’ve tried that have made a big difference to my fitness.

1. Definitely use the safety key – This is especially important if you’ve not dabbled with the incline setting on our treadmill yet. It can be a bit off-putting when the running track angle ramps up and you feel yourself losing the battle with the hill and ‘sliding’ backwards. The safety key is your best friend here as it will turn off the power if you end up needing to make a hasty retreat.
2. Get used to the quick incline settings – Most treadmills will have buttons that allow you to change the incline say 3 degrees with a single touch. If you can, make sure your treadmill has one before you buy it or you’ll end up spamming the plus and minus buttons. This gets old fast when you just want to create an incline quickly.
3. Play around with incline on a lower speed – Take it super-easy if you’re not used to hill running. It’s so much harder than running on a flat surface on a treadmill. It’s also more tricky to stay in one spot as you’ll find yourself naturally moving back along the belt. Taking the speed down is a good way to get a feel for this style of running and also build some muscle memory that will keep you in place on your machine.
4. Try some of those built-in workouts – I’m always amazed how many people jump on a treadmill every day but don’t try out some of the workout programs. Most running machines will have a good range of programs and they’re not just a gimmick to sound good. They vary both speed and incline and make your body work harder during your run. You can also increase the difficulty as you get better so they’ll keep up with you. Go on, try one out today.
5. Don’t run at the same incline or speed for a long period – Studies have shown that the best way to use a treadmill (or do any kind of aerobic training) is to do some kind of interval training. Treadmills usually have good programs built-in but I like to mess around with incline and speed on the fly. A basic way I have found that really helps is to have one-minute hard work followed by one minute easier work and repeat that for your 10, 20 or 30 minutes … or however long you train for. Vary your speed and incline and you’ll get more done and be less bored too.
6. Always have ‘some’ incline on – If you’re doing anything other than a super-lazy cool down at the end of your run (which everyone should do as it’s a healthy way to end your workout and slow your racing heart rate down gradually) I’d definitely recommend having at least a 1% incline on there. I’ve played around with treadmills vs running outside and having at least a 1% on there makes it more ‘realistic’ and will burn more calories too.