Treadmill Incline Vs. Speed
Running is a popular activity because of its effectiveness in improving cardiovascular health and its contributions to weight loss. Increasing a treadmill's incline or one's running speed raises exercise intensity and helps ensure effective workouts.
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Treadmill Function
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When running outside, individuals must propel themselves forward. A treadmill is physiologically less demanding because the surface moves underneath the runner. Increasing the treadmill's incline or your running speed can make up this difference.
Basic Fitness
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If exercising for basic fitness, such as improving cardiovascular health and losing body fat, increasing either running speed or the treadmill's incline is effective for raising the heart rate into the training zone.
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Athletic Performance
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If exercising to improve athletic performance, such as speed, using a greater incline is more effective for increasing leg strength and power.
Effects
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When the surface moves underneath the runner, there is less activation of the hamstring and glute musculature. Increasing the incline causes the hips to extend further, activating the muscles previously unused.
Considerations
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Increasing the treadmill's incline allows individuals who are not able to move at high speeds to still effectively increase workout intensity and achieve an appropriate heart rate training zone.
Warning
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To prevent injuries and muscle imbalances, never increase your treadmill speed or incline to levels where you are no longer able to maintain a proper running position.
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