The fitness world is filled with debates about different machines and techniques for achieving fitness goals.
These tools can help you lose body fat, improve endurance, and even work up a sweat with heart-pumping exercise.
We’re focusing on a small but timeless part of the debate: StairMaster vs. Incline Treadmill – What’s your stairway to cardio heaven?
You might be a big fan of the StairMaster, or you might be new to treadmills. Either way, knowing which machine is best for your goals is key.
With the right message, you can take every step.
Do they exercise the same body muscles?
When you mount a StairMaster or stair climber, you engage all of the major muscles in your legs: quads, hamstrings, calves, and glutes.
You’ll also work your core and hip flexors, building strength and definition while improving balance and stability.
Inclined treadmills, on the other hand, provide a more evenly distributed challenge for the legs, mimicking a trail that gradually climbs a hill. Depending on the level of incline, you may focus more on your glutes, hamstrings, and calves.
If you don’t hold on to the handrails, you can strengthen these muscles. In addition to your legs, you can also activate your core muscles to maintain balance and alignment.
What are the benefits of walking at an incline?
Incline walking is an essential part of the incline treadmill experience, with a range of benefits:
What are the benefits of taking the stairs?
The unique moves of the StairMaster workout also hit the welfare department:
- Offers high-intensity interval training (HIIT) potential, especially when combined with speed interval training. This builds cardiovascular endurance in less time.
- Maximize results by mobilizing targeted muscle groups (in this case, legs and abdominal muscles).
- It’s less impactful on the joints than running, making it a good choice for people with mild joint problems or recovering from injury.
How to choose based on your goals
If calorie burning is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with either machine. But remember: you get out what you put in! Speed and incline will determine how many calories you end up burning.
But there are some differences between the two machines to consider:
Exercise goals:
- Incline treadmill: Ideal if you’re looking to improve endurance (i.e. the length of time you can comfortably exercise). Walking on slopes is also great for building leg strength.
- stair master: Ideal for high-intensity aerobic exercise, working at 80-95% of your maximum heart rate in short bursts. The StairMaster can also help strengthen your hips and calves.
influence level
- Incline treadmill: At low speeds and inclines, it generally provides a low-impact workout that’s easier on knees and joints. Keep in mind that running at higher speeds on steeper inclines will increase the impact on your joints.
- stair master: Also considered a low-impact exercise. But it puts a strain on your knees and ankles because you need to bend and extend your legs. The impact of any machine on the joints depends largely on the speed and difficulty of the movement.
Size and accessibility
- Incline treadmill: Usually larger and require more space, but some can be folded. Commonly found in most gyms.
- Stairmaster: Typically more compact, making it a better machine for smaller rooms. It’s also common in gyms.
Type of exercise
- Incline treadmill: Suitable for all types of exercise such as walking, jogging or running. Adjusting the incline also allows you to mix things up.
- Stairmaster: The main focus is on stair climbing exercises, which feel more repetitive.
skill level
- Incline treadmill: Very friendly for beginners while still great for those who want a challenging experience.
- Stairmaster: There may be an adjustment period as you get used to the step motion. Some people find them more difficult, but they are doable for all skill levels.
Interesting facts: In 2022, our users logged more than 340 million runs and walks. Download the free app now and join the club!
Bottom line: Both machines can boost your fitness
There is no right or wrong way to choose fitness equipment. The “best” machine will be the one that meets your personal fitness goals. Try each device to see how your body reacts. When you find the perfect fit, your workouts will be the ones you look forward to.
Whether you’re training hard on the treadmill at the gym or climbing on the StairMaster in the comfort of your home, the most important thing is to keep moving.
Don’t limit yourself to one machine—mix it up and try different exercises to keep challenging your body and mind. Remember, even small changes in your daily routine can lead to big results.
As always, before starting any diet or exercise program, be sure to talk to your doctor to make sure it’s right for you.
Whatever form it takes, enjoy the journey and the many benefits of exercise. So go ahead and conquer those stairs or hit the incline on the treadmill—your fit self will thank you!
Originally published March 3, 2020 | Updated 7/8/2024
