A treadmill with decline is designed to help you exercise more intensely. This home fitness machine has pre-programmed workouts, personal trainer through iFit, Google Maps, and decline settings. Most of these top picks are foldable and space-saving.
Our Top Declining Treadmills: A Quick Look
In this review list, we’ll look at 7 best decline treadmill models for home use. The brands include Nordictrack, Proform, Sole, and a few others. These machines have a high weight capacity and a strong warranty. Here are our top three picks.
2. NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
To get the full picture of what each treadmill offers, including its strengths and weaknesses, keep reading!
Top Best Treadmill with Decline
1. Proform Pro 9000 Treadmill
The Proform Pro 9000 Treadmill is part of the Proform Pro Series, which are some of the best treadmill models designed for intense workouts. This means that you can do high intensity interval training (HIIT) routines on the Pro 9000 comfortably. See what else to expect from this best treadmill for home.
More on the Pro 9000:
Features & Specs
Folding Technology: all Proform Pro Series high-end treadmills are integrated with Easy-Lift Assist technology. This feature makes it easy to fold the machine and lock it in place. It also unfolds gently to protect the floor and is equipped with stabilizers so you can use it on any type of floor.
Durability & Stability: Be forewarned, this treadmill is pretty heavy, weighing 298 lbs (or 135 kg). This weight adds to its stability and reflects its solid construction. In fact, this Proform treadmill is so durable that its manufacturer offers a life time warranty for its frame.
Running Surface Dimension: The Pro 9000 treadmill with decline measures 22″ x 60″ (or 152.4 cm x 56 cm), which is large enough for tall users. It is ideal for walking, jogging, running, and interval training or CrossFit running, and accommodates different stride lengths.
The running surface is integrated with ProShox cushioning to ensure that your feet bounce back immediately after hitting the treadmill belt and prevent stress on the ankles and knees. The top of the belt is textured to prevent slipping.
Motor: The Pro 9000 treadmill model has an impressive 4.25 HP motor that can handle intense workouts, ensuring that your run will be smooth.
Console: Proform 9000 treadmill has a 10-inch touchscreen LCD window where you can access the 40 pre-programmed exercises and iFit coaching. The console is also your gateway to your performance metrics, incline/decline controls, and other functions.
Workout Program: Aside from the built-in workout, you’ll also enjoy iFit coaching, workout videos, customized trainings, running trail simulation via Google Maps. The best part, of course, is that this FamilyUp subscription comes free for the first year and you can share it with 4 other people.
To toughen your routine, make good use of the power incline and decline feature on this treadmill. The Pro 9000 simulates uphill and downhill terrain which makes you work harder, burning more calories per minute than when running on a flat belt.
Other features: The Pro 9000 iFit-enabled treadmill has a heart rate tracking function. It features built-in pulse sensors on the handles and comes with a free chest strap for wireless tracking. There’s also a built-in fan to cool you while you’re working out.
Pros
- Strong warranty: lifetime on frame, 5 years on parts, 2 years labor
- Built-in speaker, iPod-compatible for background music while exercising
- Built-in cupholders so you can keep hydrated
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Cons
- Heavy to move around
- Free iFit is only for 1 year
2. NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
Purchase Direct at NordicTrack
How fast can you run? The fastest man on earth averages 24 mph, but most of us are not that fast nor do we need those max speeds to stay fit. The NordicTrack commercial 1750 treadmill offers speeds from 0 – 12 mph which are more than sufficient for the average man.
Features & Specs
Solid Construction: It has a heavy-duty frame (309 lbs) that can support these speeds without squeaking or shaking. Just like the Proform Pro 9000 home treadmill, it is foldable. It is coated with scratch-resistant and wear-resistant paint.
How much weight can the Nordictrack 1750 support? it maximum weight is 300 pounds. If you weigh this much or less, you can use this heavy duty running treadmill comfortably.
Console: For the quality touchscreen, it’s pretty similar to the Pro 9000’s, backlit and measures 10 inches too. Its gives you access to 50 interactive workouts and iFit coaching. Through the console, you can track your workout data, including speed, distance covered, calorie burn, heart rate, and time.
Incline/Decline: To the left of the monitor you’ll find incline and decline controls and on the right side speed controls. This iFit-enabled treadmill responds fast to commands, so you are assured of smooth workouts.
The console also feature dual Bluetooth-compatible speakers. According to this research, exercising with music playing on the background can boost your performance and also motivate you to work out for longer.
AutoBreeze fans help you stay cool so you can work out for longer.
Dimensions & Motor: The NordiTrack 1750 feels sturdy underfoot even at maximum speed and incline/decline. At 22″ wide and 60″ long, it offers room even for people with long strides. The FlexSelect cushioning makes the running deck feel smooth and responsive, while the 3.5 CHP motor ensures that it picks up speed fast.
Pros
- 1 year free iFit subscription
- 10 years frame warranty, 2 years parts, one year labor
- Wide and long running surface
- Big cupholders
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Cons
- Impressive warranty but shorter than that of Pro 9000
3. Sole TT8 Treadmill
For anyone looking for a machine with minimal distractions, the Sole TT8 is the best pick. It has features most runners need in a treadmill. No frills. No bells and whistles. Its interface is well laid out for the user, whether beginner or more advanced. If you don’t like springy belts, then you’ll love what the TT8 has to offer – a smooth but firm running surface.
Features & Specs
Speed, Incline/Decline: This cardio machine inclines to 15 percent and provides max speeds of up to 12 mph. In addition to the incline, this smart treadmill max decline is -6 percent, which is more than all the other best treadmills models in its price range.
Workout Programs: This incline decline treadmill has 10 workout programs. We know it’s fewer than what others treadmills models have. But as we said, the design of the machine is to keep you focused on your goals.
10 pre programmed exercises are sufficient to figure out what speed and incline and decline percentages work your body best. This treadmill does not support iFit or other workout apps. No bells and whistles.
Motor: The Sole TT8 heavy-duty treadmill is equipped with a powerful 4.0 HP motor that enables this declining treadmill for home to accelerate from 0 to 6 mph in less than 15 seconds and from 6 mph to 12 mph in under 10 seconds. This powerful motor can handle interval training without chocking, and is backed by a lifetime warranty for the frame and 5 years on the electronics.
Console: The TT8’s console features a tablet holder, a media shelf and two water-bottle holders. The tablet holder is well placed to hold a device or magazine so you can exercise as you watch or read. This high end incline treadmill is also integrated with Bluetooth speakers. They can be paired with any device to watch a movie, listen to a podcast so you can follow your workouts.
The TT8 features a basic 5-inch LCD backlit display that shows your speed, incline, time, calorie burn, and distance covered. This cardio treadmill has buttons intuitively laid out around the screen.
You get start, stop, and safety key buttons. Buttons for speed, incline and decline are in increments, allowing you to increase or decrease the settings per your workout needs and experience.
The TT8 folding treadmill has two sets of handles: one with built-in pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring and the other set with built-in controls for speed and incline for easy reach while exercising.
Pros
- Does not have a lot of extra features which allows users to stay focused
- Powerful 4.0 CHP motor is great for walking, running and jogging exercises
- Has large water bottle holders that fit most bottles
- Supports more weight than most treadmills
- Max weight capacity: 400 lbs
Cons
- Does not fold
4. LifeSpan TR4000i Folding Treadmill
Released in 2019, the Lifespan TR4000i is a modern treadmill that supports most runners. This minimalist LifeSpan treadmill feels sturdy. It needs some assembly, but don’t worry, it’s pretty simple to assemble with an instruction manual to guide you.
Features & Specs
Dimensions: Its wide running deck is large and smooth. Measuring 22 x 60, the deck is firmer compared to the Pro 9000. This walking or running deck features 8 compression shocks that absorb shock which help reduce impact by up to 30%. This means you can exercise without worrying about your joints and ankles.
Motor: The 3.25 HP horse power is 0.75 less than our previous pick, the TT8 jogging treadmill. However, our testers enjoyed how fast it peaked in speed.
Speed & Incline/Decline: This top-of-the-line LifeSpan decline treadmill has a top speed of 12mph which is sufficient for marathon running. It inclines up to 13 percent which is 2% less than our top pick. Its max decline percentage is -2% which is at least 1% less than the other best treadmills on this review list.
However, this is not a deal breaker. The -2% max decline is enough to give you a downhill walking or running feel.
Console: The LifeSpan TR4000i treadmill with incline and decline is integrated with a runner-friendly touchscreen. You’ll appreciate this simple console with large buttons. The quality 7-inch crisp, clear display enables you to track basic workout data, including time, calories, distance, speed, and incline. The display features three modes: track, gauge, and graph. In addition to the touchscreen, the TR4000i comes with well-placed buttons for navigation.
In between the displays, you get a tablet holder for your devices. Also, the console area features dual Bluetooth-enabled speakers that are loud enough for listening to a podcast while working out. For heart rate monitoring, this folding decline treadmill has two waist-high handles with built-in pulse sensors. You have to hold onto the handles so it can get the heart rate readings from your grip.
In addition this, you can sync the machine with other heart rate monitors such Garmin for hands-free workouts. LifeSpan treadmills are compatible with Google Fit and Apple Health. Lastly, this declining treadmill has a higher capacity than our top pick. The TR4000i has a maximum weight capacity 350 lbs. The Lifespan tr4000i features a foldable frame and has a generous lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Compatible with different fitness apps so you can choose one that works best for you
- Integrated with EZ Fold system for hands-free folding
- Generous warranty
- Great for walking and running exercises
- FCC-certified as a safe fitness equipment
Cons
- Slightly lower horsepower than most heavy-duty treadmills on this reviews list
- 1% less decline than our top pick
5. Precor TRM 445 Treadmill
The Precor TRM 445 treadmill is a common fitness machine in gyms across the country. Fitness coaches recommend this heavy-duty running treadmill for runners of all fitness levels. Here are some features that wowed the team.
Features & Specs
This Precor folding Treadmill is a sleek walking running machine that will fit right into your home gym.
Dimensions: It’s on the larger, heavier side, weighing 358 pounds and measuring 79″ long, 59″ high, and 34″ wide (204 x 86 x 150 cm).
Also, it is non-folding which makes it hard to move, but once the set-up is complete, this high-end treadmill will satisfy your fitness needs for a lifetime.
Display & Console: This decline treadmill has a 7-inch backlit display that is touch-sensitive and crisp. However, we were disappointed since it is in the same price range as the Peloton tread, which has a crystal-clear 32-inch monitor, offering out-of-this-world user experience.
The monitor displays the usual workout metrics – time, calorie burn, pace, speed, and incline. Another feature we appreciate is its 4-runner profiles, a feature not offered by the other best treadmills with decline on this reviews list.
This nifty feature makes it shareable with others within your household. From the console, you can choose a program from the 39 offered, which include interval training, push performance training, and fitness tests. You can even use the machine to train for a marathon.
For heart rate monitoring, you can use the grip sensors on the handrail or wirelessly via chest strap (included in the purchase of the machine).
Motor: A 3.0-horsepower motor provides max speeds of up to 12 mph.
Incline/Decline: Max decline is -2% and max incline is 15%, which are great for light or intense workouts.
Pros
- Running surface is large and well cushioned for user comfort
- Best for tall and heavy people for walking, jogging and more
- Integrated with USB port and tablet holder for your devices
Cons
- Does not have a fan
- LCD display is too small for a treadmill within its price range
6. FreeMotion 850 Treadmill
Our team loved the FreeMotion 850 because it shares a lot of similarities with our top pick, the Proform Pro 2000 treadmill with a few difference. Its frame is slightly smaller than the Pro 2000 and also lighter by 18 pounds. Most brands compromise on durability for foldability, but this is not the case with the FreeMotion 850 treadmill.
Features & Specs
This jogging and running machine looks and feels strong. It is foldable, saving space.
Console: Its sleek console houses a 7-inch touchscreen, start/stop buttons, incline and decline/running downhill controls, and speed controls. The monitor is touch-sensitive and large enough, so you can watch and follow exercises videos just fine.
Workout programs: The 850 machine offers 32 pre-programmed workout programs that vary in intensity and is compatible with iFit. Basically, this app lets you run around the world from your home via Google Maps. Want to join the Boston Marathon? Just download the route, and the machine will set everything up for you. Want to experience a Kenyan Elephant Safari, just pick the route.
Also, iFit gives access to world class coaches such as John Peel and Stacie Clark. If you want to use iFit, you need to pay the monthly subscription, but if you prefer not to, this heavy-duty treadmill works just fine without it.
Dimensions: Its flat belt measures 22″ x 60″, the same length and width as the other best treadmills on this review list and can accommodate most stride lengths.
It is integrated with Surface Resistance Cushioning that makes the running deck feel responsive and absorbs shock to minimize impact.
Motor: You’ll get a 3.5 CHP motor which is better than what the Precor treadmill offered.
Incline/Decline: The incline goes up to 15% , and the decline can go as low as -3%. You can change the percentage via the buttons on the console. If you are a beginner, start with lower levels and gradually increase as you make progress.
Pros
- Affordable compared to most treadmills with incline
- Offers 32 on-board programs which is great for a variety of workouts including marathon workouts
- Features a 2-ply running surface (22″ x 60″) absorbs shock to reduce impact
- Compatible with most chest straps for heart rate monitoring
Cons
- Does not come with iFit trial like the Pro 9000
7. NordicTrack 2950 Commercial Treadmill
Purchase Direct at NordicTrack
The NordicTrack 2950 is part of the NordicTrack Commercial Series. It is the older, stronger brother to the Nordictrack 1750 model.
Features & Specs
Console: This beast of a treadmill boasts of a 22-inch interactive touchscreen. This is 12″ larger than what the 1750 treadmills with auto incline and decline offers. This beautiful touchscreen is responsive and is integrated with OneTouch controls.
You’ll find it easier to follow your iFit coach from the wide touchscreen. Also, the console area feature built-in Bluetooth-enabled speaker that you can pair with an iPod for listening to music or a podcast. Beneath the console, there is a large shelf where you can keep your keys and other small items within easy reach.
Motor: A 4.25 CHP horsepower motor powers this treadmill. The motor ensures the jogging treadmill picks up max speed fast and is responsive to speed, incline, and decline commands. Just like the Nordictrack 1750, this decline treadmill comes with a 22″ x 60″ belt integrated with Flex Cushioning that absorbs shock and reduces impact on the joints. You can run a marathon comfortably on it.
Speed & Incline/Decline: Last but not least, this NordicTrack cardio trainer’s speeds, incline and decline percentages are the same as the 1750 treadmill. Top speed is 12 mph, highest power incline is 15%, and declines up to -3%. If you are a tall pro runner and your weight is 300 and below, this treadmill is great for you.
Pros
- Weight capacity: 300lbs
- Free 1-year iFit membership that supports up to 5 runner profiles, gives access to personal trainers, Google Maps and more
- 40 preset workout programs for engaging workouts
- 22″ x 60″ running deck
- EasyLift Assist makes folding easysaving
Cons
- Short warranty and more expensive than the LifeSpan options
Benefits of Decline Treadmills
Running on a traditional treadmill is a good way to keep you fit and flexible, but it will not sculpt you. On the other hand, a treadmill with incline and decline functions add more challenge and resistance to your running, thus offer you more benefits. Let’s see what good treadmills with functions that mimic running uphill and downhill can offer you.
Targets different muscles
Running uphill or on an incline helps tone your core, glutes, calves. Running downhill or on a decline recruits quad muscles. It’s also worth noting that the higher the incline level (or the lower the decline), the more intense your body works, burning more calories. If you’re a beginner, we recommend that you start with decline/incline percentages that you are comfortable with.
Improves cardio vascular endurance
Running uphill/downhill will strengthen your heart and lungs. As you run on a decline or an incline, your heart will naturally work more intensely to pump blood faster and keep the oxygen levels up, expanding and strengthening the lungs.
Burns more calories
Adding variation to your exercise routine makes you work harder than usual and the results is more calories burned per minute. Running on a decline treadmill helps you reach your fitness goals faster than when using traditional machines.
Final Thoughts
If you want to add variation to your routine, a flat treadmill with power incline and decline is a great pick. The treadmills above offer different decline levels with the highest at -6% and the lowest at-2%. These best treadmills with decline functions come with a powerful motor, are durable, and some are foldable to save space. Any treadmill on this review list is a worthy pick, and we’re sure you’ll enjoy your exercising experience.
Written by Kathleen Langdon – TheHealthPot.com Founder
Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
Kathleen, a mother of two, struggled with ongoing weight and health issues. She created this website after she turned her life around. She built Thehealthpot.com to help inspire and motivate others with their fitness goals. Read more about Kathleen here.