Young athletic man running on treadmill in a gym.

This is our review of the Best Decline Treadmill in . 

A home treadmill is one of the best ways to keep fit without going to a gym or fitness center. And yet, many people who train at home tend to fall off the fitness wagon. The biggest reason for this is boredom. A decline treadmill is one of the ways in which you can eliminate monotony while taking your fitness to the next level.

A treadmill with decline works by simulating the effects of running or walking downhill. It provides a challenging workout that helps boost your stamina, endurance, and muscle strength, targeting your core, calves, quadriceps, glutes, and more. It can also help tone your muscles and minimize the impact on your joints by providing adequate cushioning. 

However, the sheer variety of models available on the market could confuse you in making a choice. But this ultimate guide will help you select what suits you the best. 

Our in-depth research into declining treadmills has led us to shortlist 5 machines we consider the best. But the Bowflex Treadmill T22 is our favorite. 

The Bowflex T22 comes with an adaptable workout feature where the treadmill intuitively gauges your fitness levels and customizes training programs for you. And with a powerful motorized decline to incline range of -5 to 20%, this machine can break the boredom plateau with its ambitious training potential. Despite powerful training specifications, the T22 is kind to your joints with its Comfort Tech cushioning that minimizes impact as you train. But more about it in the review section. 

Besides the overall best, we have 4 other options on our list of the best decline treadmill. Let’s see them in detail to decide which suits you best. 

Best Decline Treadmill (Overall)Bowflex Treadmill T22
Best Decline Treadmill (Runner-up)Nordictrack Commercial 2450
Best Decline Treadmill (Safe for Joints)LifeSpan TR5500iM Treadmill
Best Decline Treadmill (Heavy-duty)Sole TT8 Treadmill
Best Decline Treadmill (Easy Storage)Bowflex Treadmill T10

We recommend you read the entire article to choose the treadmill with decline, as we will be covering other essential topics, including a helpful buying guide and some frequently asked questions. 

The Best Decline Treadmill for Home Use 

We have picked these 5 treadmills based on their features, performance, and usability for home workouts. While each will help you achieve your fitness goals, we advise you to seek advice from your medical expert if you have any specific issues.

Bowflex Treadmill T22 – Best Decline Treadmill (Overall)

Decline to Incline Range: -5% to 20%

Speed: 0-12 mph

User Weight Capacity: 400 lb 

Belt Size: 60 x 22 inches 

Warranty: 15 years on frame & motor, 5 years on mechanical parts, 1 year on electronics, 2 years on labor

Let us start by saying that the Bowflex Treadmill T22 is a high-end incline decline treadmill that offers a variety of features to give you a premium home workout experience. 

The Bowflex 22 treadmill offers an incline range of -5% to 20%, which is among the widest we have come across. This means you can customize your workout experience from easy to challenging at the touch of a button.  

The frame of this treadmill is well-built and very sturdy, complete with short handlebars. It is also equipped with extended handlebars for better support as you touch the max incline. 

The Bowflex T22 has a generous user weight capacity of 400 pounds. This makes it an excellent fit for users from all weight and size categories with different training requirements and fitness goals. The wide belt also gives room for comfortable and uninterrupted training, leaving ample space to flex and move. 

The Comfort Tech cushioning under the deck absorbs shock and prevents micro-injuries to the joints, even during the most rigorous workouts. The belt itself is textured, ensuring better foot grip and preventing slippage and noise.

It runs on a very powerful yet quiet motor. So, even if the treadmill is in use for long hours, it will still perform optimally and can easily navigate through the speed range of up to 12 mph.

A 22-inch display completes the frame of the machine. Through it, you can access its pre-set and customizable workout programs as well as experience training on 200+ virtual scenic destinations. It also keeps track of your training metrics and heart rate. A fantastic feature is the ability of the treadmill to customize and design workout programs for you based on your fitness levels, metrics, and progress. 

You also get a one-year JRNY subscription that allows you to access expert-led training videos and sessions. With Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services run through JRNY, you can even watch your favorite shows on the console while working out. 

Weighing 336 lbs, this incline and decline treadmill is a big machine with a large footprint when in use. However, you can easily fold it upright and save space in your home thanks to the SoftDrop mechanism.

A Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband and cooling fan are other value additions. 

Why do we love itWhat do you need to consider
Quiet and powerful motorNo transport wheels 
Joint-friendly and spacious deck  OTT app streaming requires a JRNY subscription
Real-time, trainer-led workout sessions
Good warranty

Summary of Customer Reviews

Most customers have enjoyed the interactive training and entertainment experience of the Bowflex Treadmill T22. They have found this incline decline treadmill easy to set up and store. However, a few users have found the treadmill to be pricey, while few others have mentioned about the poor customer support. 

Nordictrack Commercial 2450 – Best Decline Treadmill (Runner-up)

Decline to Incline Range: -3% to 12%

Speed: 0-12 mph

User Weight Capacity: 300 lb

Belt Size: 20 X 60 inches

Warranty: 10 years on frame, 2 years on parts, 1 year on labor

From the renowned house of Nordictrack, the Nordictrack Commercial 2450 is yet another feature-rich treadmill on our list. 

This treadmill’s -3% decline is the best feature found on this machine. It provides a gentle down-slope ideal for beginners and users who are getting reoriented into workouts.

The treadmill also has a lower step-up height, making it an ideal choice for people who are recuperating from an illness or injury, senior users, and tall people who have low-ceilinged homes. 

The 3.6 CHP motor is designed to support long hours of working. It has a quiet operation, which makes this treadmill with decline suitable for home workouts. 

The 20″ X 60″ deck has an accommodating running belt suitable for most runners. There is some extra space on the sides of the deck, so you have enough room while working out. 

The deck cushioning is designed to reduce foot impact by providing shock absorption. This helps prevent micro-injuries and is ideal for people with pre-existing joint issues. 

The 22-inch HD display screen on the decline treadmill is easy on the eye and can rotate and pivot. This makes it easy for users to follow the workout on or off the treadmill. It also tracks and displays your workout stats in real time.

A 30-day iFit trial accompanies this treadmill. Through the app, you can access trainer-led workouts and sessions as well as experience scenic routes while you train. The iFit app also features the unique Auto Adjust technology. This gives you a hands-free training experience since it lets the treadmill adjust the speed, incline, and decline on its own while you exercise. It does this based on the feedback it collects based on your fitness.

The Active Pulse feature tracks your optimal heart-rate zone and auto-adjusts the speed and incline to maintain the same. 

Lastly, folding the treadmill with the Easy Lift Assist technology is super easy because of its premium-quality hydraulic system, which lets you do so without straining your muscles. 

Why do we love itWhat do you need to consider
Smart technology for hands-free workout adjustments Limited iFit subscription   
Lower step-up height 
22-inch Tilt and Pivot HD touchscreen

Summary of Customer Reviews

Most users are happy with their purchase of the Nordictrack Commercial 2450 and enjoy the features it offers. The users like the difficulty levels provided by the treadmill, making workout sessions enjoyable. However, some users had a problem with the iFit subscription being pushed onto them by the manufacturer. Others had initial troubles during assembly. 

LifeSpan TR5500iM Treadmill – Best Decline Treadmill (Safe for Joints)

Decline to Incline Range: 13 levels incline, 2 decline

Speed: 0.5-13.5 mph

User Weight Capacity: 350 lb

Belt Size: 22 X 60 inches

Warranty: 10 years on frame, 2 years on parts, 1 year on labor

Incline and decline treadmills can help you achieve your fitness goals efficiently. However, it is crucial to consider joint safety and protection while you train. The LifeSpan TR5500iM Treadmill is a safety-centric decline treadmill that ensures your joints are minimally impacted during a workout.  

With 8 compression shocks strategically placed under the 1-inch thick deck, the treadmill provides shock absorbance and comfort to your back, knees, and joints. 

The deck is roomy and comfortable even for users with long strides. It has front and back belt rollers that keep the belt secure, preventing slapping noises. 

This treadmill with decline is designed to support heavy training thanks to its 4 HP motor. It also comes with self-cooling capabilities and has a quiet operation, supporting long hours of usage by multiple users. 

Another feature that deserves your attention is the speed range. The TR5500iM is among the few models that can reach a speed of 13.5 mph. The highlight is that it does this without compromising on treadmill balance and user safety.

The foldable frame is well-built, with support beams under its deck and cross beams for extra stability and long-lasting quality. The EZ folding mechanism locks the treadmill in place, so there is no chance of it unlatching or dropping to the floor. 

Another highlight is that the frame supports the console and running belt separately. This eliminates foot vibrations from reaching and disturbing the display, which is important especially when you run at high speeds. This also makes it an excellent under-desk treadmill. All these features together make the decline treadmill a sturdy and robust machine for a challenging workout. 

The 10″ touchscreen display can be used to play music via Bluetooth and screencast YouTube to follow workout sessions by your favorite trainers. So you can stay entertained while you sweat it out! 

You can also choose from more than 50 built-in workouts that include fitness tests, training programs, and races. And while this is motivation enough, you can also create custom workouts if you wish.  

The two features on this treadmill – Intelli-Guard and Intelli-Step make it a smart machine. With Intelli-Guard, the belt of the treadmill automatically pauses after 20 seconds of being idle, while the Intell-Step feature automatically counts your steps. 

Why do we love itWhat do you need to consider
Premium shock-absorption system for minimal joint impact  Device holder blocks display
Variety of workout programs  
High maximum speed
Can be used as an under-desk treadmill

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers loved working out with LifeSpan TR5500iM Treadmill and have liked its features, ergonomic design, and the technology behind it. The treadmill has been comfortable, and users have even attached a standing desk to turn it into a treadmill desk. However, some users have reported issues with warranty coverage and customer support. 

Sole TT8 Treadmill – Best Heavy-duty Decline Treadmill 

Decline to Incline Range: 15 levels incline, 6 decline

Speed: 0.5 – 12 mph

User Weight Capacity: 400 lb

Belt Size: 22” X 60” 

Warranty: RESIDENTIAL: Lifetime on frame, deck & motor, 5 years on electronics, 2 years on labor

When we talk about heavy-duty treadmills, we mean something like the Sole TT8 Treadmill – a commercial-grade treadmill with decline that can be used at home. This treadmill has 6 decline levels, making it the maximum in the home use category. 

The standout feature of this treadmill is the presence of 2 motors. These generate enough power to run the incline and decline features effortlessly imparting an experience that simulates running on outdoor terrain.

What makes this treadmill commercial-grade is its high-quality 4 HP motor with a heavy-duty 10lb flywheel around it. This ensures not just a smoother but quieter workout experience. This also provides a greater degree of stability and balance. 

The frame of the treadmill is sturdy, ensuring high quality and durability. The user weight capacity is at a generous 400 lb, indicating that users of different sizes can feel at home with this treadmill. 

Additionally, the running deck is supported by 3” crowned rollers that add to the resilience and toughness of this decline treadmill. 

The running deck itself is wide, comfortable, and reversible. This is instrumental in increasing the longevity of the treadmill. The 2-ply belt with extra cushioning helps to soften foot landing and minimize joint impact. 

With 12 mph as the highest speed, 15 levels of incline, and a very impressive 6 decline levels, you can enjoy a variety of workout combinations that can make the sessions much more challenging. 

The 10-inch touch panel displays your workout metrics and gives you access to the different workout programs the treadmill houses. 

Since the console does not support OTT apps, the treadmill has included a tablet holder to place and access your smart device. A USB port helps to charge your device simultaneously, while you can listen to your favorite music via Bluetooth-connected audio speakers.

While the treadmill is heavy-duty, we wish it to have been foldable.

Why do we love itWhat do you need to consider
Powerful motor & heavy-duty flywheelNot foldable
Impressive decline range
Reversible deck for longevity
Good warranty

Summary of Customer Reviews

According to the customers, the Sole TT8 Treadmill is sturdy, quiet, and solid. It is easy to assemble and install. One concern many users have commonly voiced is the fact that it is difficult to move from room to room.  

Bowflex Treadmill T10 – Best Decline Treadmill with Easy Storage

Decline to Incline Range: -5% to 15%

Speed: 0-12 mph

User Weight Capacity: 400 lb

Belt Size: 22” X 60” 

Warranty: 15 years on frame & motor, 5 years on mechanical parts, 1 year on electronics, 2 years on labor

The Bowflex Treadmill T10 is one more decline treadmill from the house of Bowflex. With low storage requirements, a foldable frame, and a compact design, this treadmill is the best for you if you have space issues at your home. 

It comes with a unique SoftDrop folding system that allows for effortless folding to maximize space in your room. 

The 60×22 inch running belt gives ample space to users of different sizes to work out comfortably. Comfort Tech cushioning helps to dampen the impact of the workout on the joints.

The quiet motor helps you seamlessly transition between incline, decline, and different speeds. With a notable incline-decline range and a maximum speed of 12 mph, the treadmill allows you to explore your potential and try other workout techniques easily.

The pulse-enabled hand grips help you stay in your heart rate zone, and you can also track your heart rate with a Bluetooth-enabled armband. 

The treadmill promises an immersive cardio experience with the 2-month JRNY membership included with the purchase. You can enjoy trainer-led workout sessions, 200+ outdoor scenic views, and a virtual coach who keeps you motivated. 

The 10” adjustable HD screen gives the option to watch your favorite shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Disney+ while working out. You can also blast your favorite songs through the built-in Bluetooth speakers. So, there is no compromising on entertainment while working out. 

Why do we love itWhat do you need to consider
Easy to fold and storeOTT accessibility is dependent on JRNY subscription
Quiet and strong motor Relatively smaller screen size
Good warranty

Summary of Customer Reviews

Most users are happy with their purchase of the Bowflex Treadmill T10. It is easy to store, has a sturdy frame, offers easy installation, and they like the JRNY subscription. A few users have complained about the treadmill coming to a sudden stop after getting an error message. There are also some users who would like to see quick-action buttons on the treadmill.   

What are the benefits of decline on a treadmill?

Training on a decline treadmill has various benefits, such as:

Strengthens the quads

Quads help to maintain balance and control your movements. Training on a decline treadmill simulates downhill running that activates the muscles in your quads. With constant workouts on a decline treadmill, you can strengthen your quads and achieve strong legs.  

Makes the knees stronger

The knees need to work harder while running on a decline as compared to running on a flat surface. With consistent training on a treadmill with decline, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the knee get stronger, and stability of the knee joint improves.  

Variety in workout

Running on a flat treadmill may get boring, and your body might not feel the stress and challenge it needs for toning muscles. With an incline and decline treadmill, you can enjoy a variety of workouts and keep your sweat sessions interesting. 

‘Break’ in the middle of an intense workout

The decline settings on your treadmill will give you a ‘break’ during an intense workout session. When you’re running or walking downhill, your body requires to put in less effort than climbing uphill or running on a flat surface. So, with a decline treadmill, you can catch your breath before continuing your workout.

What are the disadvantages of decline on a treadmill?

You need to keep in mind the following when using a treadmill with decline: 

Burns fewer calories

While running downhill may improve the strength of your quads and knees, it will burn fewer calories. As we discussed, running downhill requires lesser effort and doesn’t challenge the body enough to burn a lot of calories. 

However, to maximize your workout session and total calories burnt, you can take a stim-free pre-workout supplement

Risk of injury 

If you’re not used to downhill running or switch the motion too fast, it will put additional stress on your knees and joints. This may become a cause of muscle strain and even injuries. To avoid this, start in a gradual manner and ensure you wear proper footwear suited for workouts. 

Tips on how to train on a Decline Treadmill

Here are some useful tips on how you can train on a decline:

Start slow and let the muscles get used to the movement

When you start training on a decline treadmill, start with a low incline and on a slow speed. Increase it gradually with time. Let your muscles get used to the movement. 

Lean forward

Lean your body slightly forward to control your speed and maintain balance and posture. 

Lengthen the stride

When in the decline position, you need to lengthen your stride to control your descent and maintain momentum. 

Relax, but focus on posture

Downhill movement can often be relaxing, but make sure to maintain a good posture. This will ensure you avoid injuries and boost your performance. 

Avoid decline if you have an injury

Users who have joint or other injuries should avoid using the decline to prevent aggravation of pain. 

Buying guide: What to look for when buying an Incline and Decline Treadmill?

Here’s what you need to keep in mind when buying a decline treadmill:

Range of decline and incline

When you’re buying an incline and decline treadmill, look for an option that has a good incline-decline range. The ideal decline slope is -3%, which may go up to -6% and even -10%. When you have a good range of incline and decline levels, you can enjoy a variety of workouts and target different muscle groups. 

If you live in a low-ceiling apartment and want to use the incline and decline features, consider investing in a low-profile treadmill

Ease of decline adjustment

While a good incline-decline range is beneficial, it is also important to be able to transition smoothly between levels.

To avoid interruptions in your workout and even injuries during the sessions, look for machines that offer quick and easy slope adjustments. Switching between incline, decline, and flat running shouldn’t be a hassle. 

Cushioning mechanism

The prime reason legs feel sore and hurt after a run on natural terrain is the unevenness and lack of bounce. So when you are purchasing a treadmill, look for good cushioning technology under the running belt. This will prevent impact on your joints and minimize injuries and soreness, giving you a safe and comfortable running experience.  

Budget

Budget is largely a personal decision and decline treadmills are available in a wide price range. 

Set a budget and look for options within that range. The usual trend is that treadmills costing less would have a more basic set-up, while high-end treadmills are loaded with premium features.

Warranty

The warranty coverage of a treadmill gives you a very good idea about how much support you will receive if anything goes wrong with it. It also indirectly lets you know how much confidence the manufacturers have in their product.

Invest in a machine that has a wide warranty net that includes frame, components, electronics and labor.  

Conclusion

To conclude, a decline treadmill is a good investment if you’re looking to level up your home workout game. We have enlisted the best 5 treadmills with a decline that you can go through and select the best one as per your suitability. 

Through our in-depth research on all these machines, Bowflex Treadmill T22 has turned out to be our favorite, firstly because of its incredible decline-to-incline range of -5% to 20%. Other attractions include the engaging workout programs, videos and virtual coaching via a 22-inch immersive display. It is also gentle on the joints, suited to a wide range of users and easy to fold making it an overall winner.

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in the article above is for educational and informational purposes only. It shouldn’t be considered as health or medical advice. Please consult a doctor or a qualified health professional if you have any medical/health conditions questions.

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