Incline Trainer Vs Incline Treadmill – Yes, There’s A Difference

Are you tired of the same old treadmill routine at the gym? Want to switch it up and challenge yourself with a steeper incline? You may have heard of an incline trainer and an incline treadmill, but do you know the difference between the two?

Incline training has become a popular way to add intensity to your cardio workouts. However, not all types of machines are created equal. Understanding the differences between an incline trainer and an incline treadmill is important to determine which one is right for you.

In this article, we will explore the key differences and similarities between an incline trainer and an incline treadmill. From the unique features to the benefits of each machine and which one offers a more challenging workout, we’ll help you make an informed decision on which one to use to take your fitness routine to the next level.

Overview of the Incline Trainer and Incline Treadmill

The incline trainer and incline treadmill are two pieces of fitness equipment capable of replacing an outdoor hike, with the incline trainer offering up to a 40% incline compared to the 12% incline of the incline treadmill.

Each piece of equipment has its advantages depending on the type of training desired. Incline treadmills are the more well-known and are found in most gyms and fitness centres. They offer a variety of elevation and speed options and are great for training at an incline or decline.

Incline trainers, on the other hand, offer a higher incline than treadmills and more intense workouts. They are great for those looking for an intense workout and who want to burn more calories. Incline trainers also provide a more secure platform for running, making them an ideal choice for those looking to increase their speed and performance.

Both machines are capable of providing a great workout, but depending on the individual’s desired training options, the incline trainers may be the better choice.

What are the Benefits of an Incline Trainer?

This machine is popular for its ability to increase the incline level, which can provide workouts with different levels of intensity.

This capability adds more variety to traditional treadmill workouts, as the incline trainer can simulate running outdoors. An incline trainer is more suitable for muscle-building workouts compared to a commercial treadmill. This is due to the incline trainer’s capability to reach a steeper incline angle, which can provide tremendous training opportunities.

Incline trainers are ideal for those looking to increase their aerobic fitness, as the incline capability can help burn more calories and provide a more intense workout. An incline trainer also comes with deeper decline capabilities offering simulated workouts.

What are the Benefits of an Incline Treadmill?

An incline treadmill can offer numerous advantages over an incline trainer, such as increased calorie burn and more intense aerobic exercise.

For instance, a study found that participants in a 30-minute incline treadmill workout burned 10% more calories than those who ran at the same speed on a flat treadmill.

An incline treadmill offers users the ability to adjust the incline of the machine, allowing for a more challenging workout. This can be beneficial for those looking to increase their intensity and burn more calories.

This type of treadmill is a versatile piece of workout equipment that can accommodate a variety of fitness goals and training styles, including running, walking, and jogging.

What are the Similarities Between Incline Trainer and Incline Treadmill?

A comparison of incline trainers and incline treadmills reveals similarities in their ability to provide users with an adjustable incline and decline feature to customise their workout intensity. This feature is often not available on a regular treadmill, making incline trainers and treadmills popular for those seeking to increase the difficulty of their workout.

Both exercise machines also have a decline option, allowing users to simulate the feeling of running downhill as if they were running in real life.

These high-performance machines usually have a powerful motor, allowing users to run or walk at their desired speed, and they may even come with a virtual reality workout feature that simulates different terrains and environments.

What are the Differences Between Incline Trainer and Incline Treadmill?

A key distinction between incline trainers and incline treadmills is that the former typically has a higher maximum incline than the latter, with some trainers reaching up to a 40% incline compared to the typical 15% incline.

This large difference in incline provides for a much more intense workout on an incline trainer, allowing for greater calorie burn and muscular development. Furthermore, incline trainers are typically sturdier and more durable than a standard treadmill, making them more suitable for heavier users.

The other notable difference between an incline trainer and an incline treadmill is the type of motion offered. While the incline treadmill offers a running motion, the incline trainer is more like a stair-climbing motion.

This difference in motion allows for a different type of workout experience that targets different muscle groups.

Interested to learn more about super high-incline treadmills? We have tested and done a full review of the NordicTrack X22i Incline Trainer which can incline up to 40% and a maximum decline of -6%. It’s a super high-performance machine and is one of our favourites so far.

Which Machine Offers a More Challenging Workout?

It is clear that, when comparing an incline trainer and an incline treadmill, the former offers a more challenging workout.

Generally speaking, an average treadmill has a maximum incline of 12 to 15 per cent, while a regular commercial treadmill has a maximum incline of 15 to 20 per cent. Incline training machines, however, can reach a maximum incline of between 30 and 40 per cent.

This difference in incline is the key factor in the difference between an incline trainer and an incline treadmill. An incline trainer offers a more intense workout because of the greater incline, which increases the intensity of the workout and requires more physical effort.

Therefore, it is evident that an incline trainer offers a more challenging workout than an incline treadmill.

Which Machine is Best for Your Fitness Goals?

Considering individual fitness goals is essential when selecting the best machine for a challenging workout.

For individuals looking to start a workout program, a simple treadmill may be ideal, as it allows for a gradual incline or decline.

However, an incline trainer offers a more challenging workout, as it has more intense declines and inclines. Incline trainers are better suited for individuals looking to add more challenging workouts to their routines.