Many walking pads are flat. Some add incline, which raises the front of the belt so every step is uphill. It is a popular feature, and it is fair to ask whether you will use it or whether it is just a number on a spec sheet. This guide helps you decide. For the numbers on calories and the research, see our incline walking guide. This one is about choosing. If you are comparing models, our best walking pad UK guide covers the rest, and the 3 Series heavy-duty walking pad is our walking pad with 8 Level Auto Incline.
What does incline actually do?
Incline raises the front of the belt. At the same speed, walking uphill feels harder than walking on the flat. That gives you two practical options:
- Make a walk feel harder without going faster. Useful in a small room or at a desk where high speed isn't sensible.
- Add variety. Flat, gentle slope, steeper slope: the same pad can give you a relaxed walk or a more challenging one.
Who is incline worth it for?
Incline is worth having if you:
- Get bored walking on the flat and like changing the effort.
- Want to walk at a comfortable speed but still feel you have worked.
- Want one machine for easy days and harder days.
- Walk or jog and like to mix up the session with short intervals.
Who can skip it?
You may not need incline if you:
- Only want a gentle walk during the working day. Typing and calls are easier on the flat.
- Want the simplest machine.
- Rarely change your routine.
An honest answer: if you will only ever walk at a slow pace on the flat, you can skip it. If you think you might want a harder session later, it is useful to have it built in. If you have a health condition or haven't exercised for a while, check with your GP before starting.
Auto incline vs manual incline
This is the detail that matters most when comparing machines.
- Auto incline means you change the slope with a button while you walk. No stopping.
- Manual incline means you set the slope before you start, usually at the rear of the machine.
Auto is far more convenient, especially if you like intervals. Manual is simpler, but you have to step off to change it.
Incline on KTQ machines
| Model | Incline | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Series | 2 Level Manual Incline, up to 8% | Manual. See the 1 Series |
| 2 Series | 4 Level Manual Incline, up to 8% | Manual. See the 2 Series |
| 3 Series walking pad | 8 Level Auto Incline | Auto, changed on the move. See the 3 Series heavy-duty walking pad |
| 4 Series | 15% Auto Incline | Auto, changed on the move. See the 4 Series |
The 3 Series is our walking pad with incline: eight levels, changed on the move. It runs from 1 to 10 km/h, so you can walk gently or step up the pace.
What to check on any walking pad with incline
Use this list on any machine, ours or anyone else's:
- Is it auto or manual? Many walking pads have no incline at all.
- How many levels? More levels give you finer steps.
- Does it have a double-layer deck? Our 2, 3 and 4 Series do, which adds stability and reinforcement. On each landing, the flex and the two layers soak up more of the impact, so it's not harsh on your knees. The 1 Series does not have one.
- Is there a handrail? Useful when you step up the slope. All four KTQ machines have one.
- How much room does it need? Incline lifts the front, so allow extra clearance above and in front. See how to measure your room for a treadmill.
- Can you try it? Every KTQ order has a 60-day free home trial. See the refund policy.
Using incline sensibly
- Start low. Walk a few minutes on a gentle slope, then go back to flat.
- Build up gradually over weeks.
- Hold the handrails only to steady yourself, not to lean on.
- Wear supportive trainers and clip on the safety key.
- Use incline for short intervals if you are new to it.
For using a pad at a desk, see our under desk walking pad setup guide. If you are wondering whether you can go faster than a walk, read can you run on a walking pad?
Frequently asked questions
Is a walking pad with incline worth it?
If you like variety or want a harder walk without going faster, yes. If you only want a slow walk on the flat, you can do without it.
What is the difference between auto and manual incline?
Auto incline changes with a button while you walk. Manual incline is set before you start.
How much incline does the KTQ 3 Series have?
It has 8 Level Auto Incline, changed while you walk.
Can I add incline to a flat walking pad with blocks?
We don't recommend propping a walking pad on blocks, because it can make the machine unstable. Choose a machine with built-in incline, such as the 3 Series with 8 Level Auto Incline.
Do all KTQ machines have a double-layer deck?
No. The 2, 3 and 4 Series do, adding stability and reinforcement. The 1 Series does not.
