If you have tried the 12-3-30 treadmill workout at the gym and want to do it at home, you have probably already discovered the problem. A lot of home treadmills do not go up to 12% incline. Budget models typically max out at 5% to 10%, and most walking pads offer little to no incline at all.
That is a dealbreaker if incline training is important to you. Whether you are doing the 12-3-30, training for hilly races, or simply want the option of a steep hill walk without leaving the house, you need a treadmill that actually reaches 12% or higher.
This guide covers the best home treadmills in the UK that hit at least 12% powered incline. Every treadmill in this list has been assessed on motor power, build quality, running deck size, value for money, and how well it handles sustained incline use, because a treadmill that technically reaches 12% but struggles to hold it under load is no use to anyone.
Quick Navigation
Why Does 12% Incline Matter?
Walking or running on a steep incline changes the workout entirely. At 12%, you are essentially walking uphill at a gradient that would have most people breathing hard within five minutes. Research has shown that incline walking at around 10% to 12% can more than double the metabolic cost compared to flat walking at the same speed, meaning you burn significantly more calories in the same amount of time.
The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. A 30-minute incline walk at 12% comfortably qualifies as moderate-intensity for most people, and for many it edges into vigorous territory. Five sessions a week at that level hits the NHS target exactly.
Beyond the 12-3-30 trend, a 12% incline is genuinely useful for hill training, glute and hamstring development, joint-friendly cardio that avoids running impact, and building cardiovascular fitness without needing to move at high speeds. It is one of the most versatile features a home treadmill can have.
Quick Comparison: Best Incline Treadmills at a Glance
| Treadmill | Max Incline | Deck Size | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reebok GT40z | 12% | 130 x 45 cm | £549 |
| ProForm Carbon TLS | 12% | 140 x 46 cm | £719 |
| Xterra TRX2500 | 15% | 152 x 51 cm | £699 |
| NordicTrack T Series 9 | 12% | 152 x 51 cm | £999 |
| NordicTrack T Series 8 | 12% | 152 x 51 cm | £1,299 |
| NordicTrack Commercial 2450 | 15% (+decline) | 152 x 56 cm | £2,499 |
1. Reebok GT40z – Best Budget Incline Treadmill
> Max Incline: 12%
The Reebok GT40z is the most affordable treadmill on this list that actually reaches 12% incline, and it does so without cutting corners on the things that matter. At just £549, it undercuts most competitors in this category by a comfortable margin.
Under the hood you get a 2.0 HP motor with a top speed of 11.2 mph and 12 power incline levels. The motor is not the most powerful on the list, but it handles sustained incline walking and jogging without complaint. If you are primarily using this for the 12-3-30 workout (which runs at just 3 mph as the name suggests), the motor has plenty of headroom.
Reebok’s ZigTech cushioning, adapted from their running shoe technology, provides decent impact absorption across the 130 x 45 cm deck. The deck is on the smaller side, which is worth noting if you are tall or have a long stride, but for walking and light jogging it is perfectly adequate.
One standout feature is Zwift and Kinomap compatibility via Bluetooth. This is unusual at this price point. Most budget treadmills that offer app connectivity lock you into a proprietary platform, but the GT40z plays nicely with the apps many runners already use.
The warranty is excellent too: 10-year frame, 10-year motor, 2-year parts and labour. That level of coverage at this price is genuinely impressive and suggests Reebok are confident in the build quality.
At just 61 kg, it is also the lightest treadmill on this list by a significant margin, making it easy to reposition and fold away between sessions.
Who is it best for?
The GT40z is ideal if incline walking is your primary goal and you want to keep costs down. It handles the 12-3-30 perfectly, offers genuine 12% incline without the premium price tag, and the Zwift compatibility is a bonus that treadmills twice the price sometimes lack.
If you need a machine for serious running at high speeds, look further up the list. But for incline walking and light jogging, it is hard to beat for the money.
BEST BUDGET: Reebok GT40z Treadmill
- ZigTech cushioning technology
- 12% maximum incline exceeds many competitors
- Built-in speakers and MP3 connectivity
- Hand pulse sensors and wireless heart rate receive
- Soft-drop folding mechanism prevents sudden deck drops
2. ProForm Carbon TLS – Best for Quiet Incline Training
Max Incline: 12%
The ProForm Carbon TLS comes from the same parent company as NordicTrack (iFIT Health and Fitness), and the family resemblance shows. This is a well-built, feature-rich treadmill that sits in the sweet spot between budget and mid-range.
The 2.6 CHP Quiet Drive motor lives up to its name. It is noticeably quieter than most competitors at this price, which matters if you are training in a flat, a terraced house, or anywhere with thin walls. Combined with the 0 to 12% powered incline, it delivers smooth, gradual incline changes that do not jolt or stutter mid-workout.
ProForm’s ProShox cushioning system absorbs impact at key contact points across the deck, reducing stress on knees, ankles, and hips. The running surface measures approximately 140 x 46 cm, which is a step up from the Reebok but still smaller than the premium machines further down this list.
The QuickFold design is one of the better folding treadmill mechanisms we have seen. It locks into a compact vertical position (Just 66.9H x 80.3W x 83.6L cm when folded), making it a practical choice for rooms that serve more than one purpose. One-touch speed and incline controls, a 5-inch LCD screen, Bluetooth speakers, and a USB-C charging port round out the feature set.
Like NordicTrack, the full experience is built around iFIT, which requires a subscription after the included 30-day trial. The treadmill works perfectly well in manual mode without it, but the guided workouts and automatic incline adjustments are where iFIT adds genuine value, especially for incline-focused training.
Warranty coverage includes a lifetime frame guarantee, 5-year motor warranty, and 2-year parts and labour when registered within 28 days of purchase.
Who is it best for?
The Carbon TLS suits buyers who want 12% incline capability with quiet operation and solid build quality, but do not need the larger deck or faster speeds of the premium machines.
It is particularly well suited to those living in flats or terraced hourses and anyone training early in the morning or late at night. The iFIT integration is a bonus if you enjoy guided workouts, and the folding design is among the best in class.
ProForm Carbon TLS
- 2.6 CHP Mach Z motor ensures smooth belt movement for quiet operation
- ProShox cushioning system absorbs impact at key contact points,
- One-touch speed and incline controls & 5″ LCD Scrren
- Integrated tablet holder, emergency cutoff, and USB-C charger
- QuickFold design allows vertical storage,
3. Xterra TRX2500 – Best Value for Serious Incline Training
Max Incline: 15%
The Xterra TRX2500 is the dark horse of this list. It does not have the marketing budget of NordicTrack or Peloton, but it quietly delivers one of the best specification sheets you will find under £700, including the highest maximum incline on this list short of the NordicTrack Commercial 2450, which triple the price.
That 15% incline is the headline. It gives you three full percentage points beyond what you need for the 12-3-30, which means room to progress if 12% eventually feels comfortable. For dedicated hill training, 15% simulates a seriously steep gradient that will challenge even fit runners.
The 3.25 HP motor is the second most powerful on this list (behind the Commercial 2450), and it handles sustained incline use at speed without straining. The running deck measures 152 x 51 cm, which matches the NordicTrack T Series 8 and 9 and gives you a generous surface for running at pace. At this price, that deck size is exceptional.
Xterra’s XtraSoft cushioning is firmer than NordicTrack’s offerings, which is actually a positive for runners who want a surface that mimics outdoor terrain rather than a bouncy gym floor. You get 30 preset workout programmes, a 7.5-inch LCD display, and Bluetooth heart rate monitor connectivity. There is no proprietary app ecosystem or mandatory subscription, which keeps ongoing costs at zero.
The trade-off is weight. At 100 kg, this is a substantial machine, and even with the hydraulic folding mechanism, it is not something you will casually move around. The console is functional rather than flashy, and it lacks the touchscreen and guided workout features of the iFIT-equipped machines. But if you prioritise raw performance and deck space over tech features, the TRX2500 is outstanding value.
Warranty includes 10 years on the motor and 2 years on parts and labour for home use.
Who is it best for?
Serious runners and incline enthusiasts who want the highest incline available at a mid-range price. The combination of 15% incline, 3.25 HP motor, and a 152 cm deck at under £700 is remarkably hard to beat.
If you do not care about touchscreens or guided workouts and just want a capable machine that will hold up to regular hard use, the TRX2500 deserves serious consideration.
BEST BUDGET INCLINE: Xterra TRX2500
- XtraSoft cushioning deck reduces impact forces
- Largest 7″ LCD display in list
- 30 preset workout programmes
- Solid construction and large running deck
- Largest incline (15%) and strongest motor
4. NordicTrack T Series 9 – Best All-Rounder with 12% Incline
Max Incline: 12%
The NordicTrack T Series 9 is the sweet spot of the entire NordicTrack lineup. It sits above the more basic T Series 5 and the T Series 8, but below the premium Commercial range, and it gets almost everything right for the money.
The 3.6 CHP motor is powerful, smooth, and quiet. It drives speeds up to 12.5 mph and handles 12% incline transitions without hesitation. Whether you are doing a gentle incline walk or pushing through interval sprints, the motor responds immediately and holds speed consistently under load.
The running deck measures 152 x 51 cm, which is generous for a treadmill at this price and matches machines costing considerably more. NordicTrack’s Runners Flex cushioning system lets you toggle between a softer surface for low-impact sessions and a firmer feel that simulates road running. This is a genuinely useful feature, especially if you use the treadmill for both incline walking for weight loss and faster-paced running on different days.
The 14-inch HD touchscreen is where the T Series 9 pulls away from the T Series 8 (covered below), which uses a smaller 7-inch LCD. With an active iFIT subscription, the screen becomes a window into thousands of guided workouts, virtual outdoor routes, and trainer-led sessions that automatically control your speed and incline. The SmartAdjust feature adapts workout intensity to your fitness level over time, and ActivePulse (with a Bluetooth heart rate monitor) keeps you in your target zone automatically.
It folds with NordicTrack’s EasyLift Assist hydraulic system and rolls on transport wheels, though at approximately 90 kg it is not the lightest machine to reposition. The warranty package is strong: lifetime frame, 10-year motor, and 2-year parts and labour when registered within 28 days.
Who is it best for?
The T Series 9 is the best choice for runners who want a complete package: solid incline capability, a spacious deck, an immersive screen experience, and build quality that will last years. If you are willing to invest in the iFIT subscription, this becomes one of the most capable and engaging home treadmills available under £1,000. It handles the 12-3-30 effortlessly, but it is equally capable as a proper running machine for Couch to 5K, interval training, and everything in between.
NordicTrack T Series 9
- 3.6 CHP motor with speeds up to 12.5 mph
- Motorised incline from 0 to 12%
- 51 x 152 cm running belt for taller runners and longer strides
- 14 inch HD touchscreen with full iFIT integration
- Folds vertically with EasyLift Assist and transport wheels
5. NordicTrack T Series 8
Max Incline: 12%
This might seem counterintuitive: the T Series 8 costs £300 more than the T Series 9 but scores lower in our RunRank. That is because the T Series 9 represents better overall value. However, the T Series 8 still earns its place on this list for a specific reason: the SelectFlex cushioning system.
SelectFlex lets you physically toggle the deck between a softer, more cushioned surface and a firmer road-feel setting. This is different from the Runners Flex system on the T Series 9. Where Runners Flex provides adjustable softness, SelectFlex changes the mechanical response of the deck itself. For runners who are very particular about how the surface feels underfoot, or anyone managing joint issues who needs maximum cushioning during incline walks, SelectFlex is arguably the better system.
The rest of the spec sheet is strong: 3.6 CHP motor, 12.4 mph top speed, 12% powered incline, and a 152 x 51 cm running deck. The 7-inch LCD display is smaller than the T Series 9’s touchscreen, but it is clear and functional. iFIT connectivity works through your own device via Bluetooth rather than the built-in screen, which is a trade-off rather than a downside if you prefer using a tablet you already own.
The AutoBreeze fan is a nice touch, automatically ramping up airflow as your workout intensity increases. At 136 kg, it is heavier than most machines on this list, which speaks to the robust build quality but makes it a commitment in terms of positioning.
Who is it best for?
The T Series 8 makes most sense for buyers who specifically value the SelectFlex cushioning system and want a treadmill with a rock-solid, heavy-duty feel. If cushioning and joint protection during incline work are your top priorities, it is an excellent choice. For most other buyers, the T Series 9 offers a better overall package at a lower price. Read our full NordicTrack T Series 8 review here
NordicTrack T Series 8
- 3.6 CHP motor with speeds up to 12.4 mph (20 km/h) and 12% incline
- Spacious 152 x 51 cm running deck with SelectFlex cushioning
- 10″ HD touchscreen with iFIT interactive training built in
- Folds upright with EasyLift Assist for compact storage
- Supports users up to 136 kg with a solid, gym-grade build
6. NordicTrack Commercial 2450 – Best Premium Incline Treadmill
Max Incline: 15% (plus -3% decline)
If money is not the primary concern and you want the best home treadmill for incline training available in the UK, this is it. The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is the highest-rated treadmill we have reviewed on HomeTreadmill.co.uk, and the incline and decline capability is a major reason why.
You get 15% incline and -3% decline. That range is exceptional for a home treadmill. The 15% incline is steep enough to challenge anyone, and the decline feature is genuinely rare. Running downhill puts specific stress on the quadriceps and challenges eccentric muscle control in ways flat and uphill running do not. If you are training for hilly races or trail events, the ability to practise both uphill and downhill at home is invaluable.
The 4.25 CHP motor is the most powerful on this list, driving speeds up to 14 mph with immediate, seamless transitions during interval work. The running deck measures 152 x 56 cm, making it the widest on this list. Those extra 5 cm of width compared to a standard 51 cm deck are noticeable, especially at pace when fatigue starts to affect form.
The 24-inch HD pivoting touchscreen is excellent. It is bright, responsive, and tilts for off-treadmill workouts. With iFIT, it delivers virtual outdoor runs that automatically adjust incline and decline to match real-world terrain, which is the most immersive way to use the incline capabilities of this machine. NordicTrack’s Runners Flex cushioning lets you switch between soft and firm surfaces.
At approximately 146 kg assembled, this is a tank. It folds with the SpaceSaver design, but even folded the footprint is substantial. You need a dedicated space. Assembly is a two-person job.
The warranty includes a 10-year frame, 2-year parts, and 1-year labour. While the labour coverage is shorter than some competitors, the frame and component warranties are reassuring for a machine at this level.
Who is it best for?
Serious runners and dedicated fitness enthusiasts who want the widest incline range, the most powerful motor, and the largest deck available in a UK home treadmill. If you run three or more times a week, train for events, or simply want a machine that you will never outgrow, the Commercial 2450 is the one to buy. It handles everything from gentle 12-3-30 walks to full-speed sprint intervals on a steep gradient without breaking a sweat. Read our full NordicTrack Commercial 2450 review here.
BEST PREMIUM – NordicTrack Commercial 2450
- 3.6 CHP motor with 13.5 mph top speed and -3% to 15% incline
- Massive 152 x 56 cm running deck, the widest on this list,
- 22-inch tilting HD touchscreen with iFit integration for guided runs,
- Built-in fans and premium speakers
- Adjustable Runners Flex cushioning switches
How to Choose the Right Incline Treadmill
With six strong options on this list, the right choice depends on what you are actually going to use it for. Here is a simple breakdown.
If the 12-3-30 is your main workout, any treadmill on this list will handle it. The 12-3-30 runs at just 4.8 km/h on a 12% incline, which is not demanding on the motor. The Reebok GT40z at £549 does this job perfectly and is the most cost-effective route in.
If you want incline training plus proper running, the NordicTrack T Series 9 or Xterra TRX2500 offer the best balance of incline capability, deck size, and running performance at a mid-range price. The Xterra wins on raw specs (15% incline, no subscription costs), while the T Series 9 wins on the training experience (iFIT integration, touchscreen, guided workouts).
If you want the absolute best and budget is secondary, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is in a class of its own. The combination of 15% incline, -3% decline, a 4.25 CHP motor, and a 56 cm wide deck is unmatched by anything else available in the UK at this price.
If noise is a major concern, the ProForm Carbon TLS earns its name with one of the quietest motors on this list. If you are training in a flat or during unsociable hours, that matters.
If budget is tight but you need 12%, the Reebok GT40z is the clear choice. It hits 12% incline, weighs just 61 kg, and has a 10-year motor warranty. There is nothing else at this price that matches it for incline training.
What to Check Before You Buy
Before committing to any incline treadmill, there are a few practical points worth considering.
Ceiling height. A 12% to 15% incline raises the rear of the treadmill deck significantly. If you are tall and your ceiling is low, check that you have enough headroom at maximum incline. This is especially relevant for loft conversions, rooms with sloped ceilings, and basements.
Floor space. Every treadmill on this list folds, but the folded footprint varies considerably. The Reebok GT40z folds to a compact size and weighs 61 kg. The Commercial 2450 folds but still dominates a room. Measure your available space before ordering.
Power supply. Higher-powered treadmills with motorised incline draw more electricity. Make sure you have a suitable mains socket nearby and avoid running the treadmill from an extension lead if possible, particularly with the larger machines.
Ongoing costs. The NordicTrack and ProForm machines are built around the iFIT ecosystem, which is a paid subscription after the initial trial. The Reebok and Xterra work without any subscription. Factor this into your total cost of ownership when comparing prices.
For a broader look at how much treadmills cost in the UK across all categories, our pricing guide breaks down what to expect at every budget level.
The Bottom Line
Every treadmill on this list delivers genuine 12% incline or higher, and any of them will handle the 12-3-30 and serious incline training. The right choice depends on your budget, your space, and whether you value tech features or raw performance.
For most UK buyers looking specifically for an incline treadmill, the NordicTrack T Series 9 at £999 offers the best combination of incline capability, running performance, screen quality, and long-term durability. If budget is the priority, the Reebok GT40z at £549 is a genuine bargain. And if you want the best available regardless of price, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is in a league of its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do the 12-3-30 workout on any treadmill?
No. You need a treadmill that reaches 12% incline. Many budget models and walking pads top out at 5% to 10%. All six treadmills on this list reach at least 12%, making them suitable for the 12-3-30 workout.
Is 12% incline enough, or should I get 15%?
For most people, 12% is more than enough. It is a steep gradient that challenges even fit users. However, if you think you might want to progress beyond 12% or you are training for hilly terrain, the Xterra TRX2500 and NordicTrack Commercial 2450 offer 15% incline at reasonable prices.
Does incline walking burn more calories than flat running?
Research suggests that walking at a steep incline can burn a comparable number of calories to running on a flat surface, with the added benefit of lower joint impact. A peer-reviewed study comparing the 12-3-30 to running found that incline walking burned approximately 10 kcal per minute versus 13 kcal per minute for running, but used a higher proportion of fat as fuel.
Do I need a powered incline, or is manual incline fine?
For the 12-3-30 workout specifically, either works as long as it reaches 12%. However, powered incline is far more convenient because you can adjust it mid-workout without stopping. All treadmills on this list use powered motorised incline except where noted.
Which incline treadmill is best for a small flat?
The Reebok GT40z at 61 kg is the lightest and most compact. The ProForm Carbon TLS also folds down to a relatively small footprint. Both are practical for smaller spaces. If floor space is your primary constraint, also consider our folding treadmill guide for the most compact options available.
HomeTreadmill.co.uk is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our reviews or recommendations — every product is assessed independently based on its own merits.