The treadmill has been around for over a century and is a popular choice for people looking for an indoor cardio workout. Often overlooked or under-used is the incline function that features in most modern treadmill designs.
This function allows you to walk or run at an incline burning more calories and giving you a more challenging and productive workout.
In this article, we will explore all the benefits of using the incline treadmill function and how it can significantly elevate your workouts and training.
The Benefits of Using the Incline Treadmill Function
When you use an incline on a treadmill, you are essentially walking or running uphill. This can have some great benefits for your overall health and fitness.
1. Burn More Calories
One of the biggest reasons people use an incline on a treadmill is to burn more calories. When you walk or run at an incline, your body has to work harder than it would if you were walking on a flat surface. This means that you can burn more calories in the same amount of time, which can help you to lose weight or reach your fitness goals much faster.
Many powerlifters and strength athletes will use incline treadmill walking as a way to burn fat without affecting their lifting performance. If you're trying to stay lean while still being able to train heavily, then this can be a great option.
2. Improve Cardio and Stamina
Another benefit of using an incline on a treadmill is that it can help improve your cardiovascular fitness and stamina. When you walk or run at an incline, your heart has to work harder to pump blood to your muscles. This can help improve your overall cardiovascular fitness and stamina over time.
If you're training for a race or event that involves hills or mountains, then using an incline on a treadmill can help you prepare for that by simulating the conditions you'll be facing.
3. Build Lower Body Strength
Incline treadmill walking can also help to build strength in your lower body, specifically your glutes, hamstrings, and calves. If you're looking to tone your legs or improve your overall lower body strength, incline treadmill walking can be a great option. It helps you to build lean muscle which in turn will help you to burn fat more efficiently.
Additionally, if you have any lower body injuries or weaknesses, incline treadmill walking can help to rehabilitate those by working the muscles in a controlled and safe manner.
4. Tone Your Legs and Buttocks
Incline treadmill walking is a great way to tone your legs and buttocks. If you find it difficult to walk uphill, try walking on an incline treadmill. You can gradually increase the incline as you get used to it.
This type of walking targets your glutes, hamstrings, and calves, which can help to give you a firmer and more toned lower body. It also engages your core and arms for a full body workout.
5. Prevents Boredom
If you find yourself getting bored with walking or running on a flat surface, then incline treadmill walking can be a great way to mix things up. By changing the incline, you can make the workout more challenging and interesting.
6. Work at your own Pace
A treadmill incline function can be adapted to a number of levels which allows you to build up your stamina levels and work at your own pace. This means you can avoid injury and gradually build your strength and speed to match your personal fitness goals.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Incline Treadmill Workout
If you're going to be using an incline on a treadmill, there are a few things that you can do to help ensure that you get the most out of your workout and avoid any potential problems.
Many treadmills such as the Echelon Stride come with powerful app tools which include full tutorials on how to get the most out of your treadmill functions as well as online classes and scenic rides.
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Start Slow - If you're new to the incline treadmill function, it's important to start slow and gradually increase the incline over time. Don't try to go too hard too fast, as this can lead to joint pain or lower your motivation if you find it too difficult to manage.
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Listen to Your Body - If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while incline treadmill walking, be sure to listen to your body and take a break. It's important not to push yourself too hard and risk injury.
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Warm Up First - As with any type of workout, it's important to warm up before you start incline treadmill walking or running. This will help to prevent injuries and help you get the most out of your workout.
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Use Proper Form - Be sure to use proper form when incline treadmill walking, just as you would with any other type of walking or running. This will help prevent injuries and ensure you're getting the most out of your workout. Read the product guidelines and watch instructional videos on mastering the correct form.
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Cool Down Afterward - As with any workout, it's important to cool down after incline treadmill walking. This will help your body to recover and prevent any potential injuries.
Final Thoughts
A treadmill incline function can turn your running session into a full body workout. It burns fat more efficiently than standard walking or running and builds strength and muscle in your lower body but also your arms and core. The great thing about using an incline function on the treadmill is that you can build your endurance slowly by gradually adapting it to suit you.
Switching up the incline on your treadmill adds versatility and challenge to your workout which will keep you motivated and consistent with your fitness goals.