
22/07/2025
Walking on an incline boosts fat burn and muscle activation.
According to research, walking at a 16–18% incline burns up to 70% more fat than running on a flat surface. Even a modest 5% incline can increase calorie expenditure by about 50%. This isn’t just about numbers—it means you can get more out of each step with less impact on your joints.
Incline walking also activates more muscles, particularly in the calves, hamstrings, and glutes. It increases your heart rate, challenges your cardiovascular system, and helps shift your body into a more efficient fat-burning zone. For those looking to burn fat while protecting their knees and joints, this is a practical and effective strategy.
If you're short on time or recovering from high-impact workouts, incline walking is a smart addition to your routine. It’s simple, accessible, and backed by solid evidence.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.03.032