Walking on a flat surface mainly works the lower legs. Add incline, and the body changes its demand. The glutes, hamstrings, and calves work harder. The heart rate rises faster. Oxygen demand increases.
According to a study published in NIH, increasing treadmill incline significantly raises energy expenditure compared to level walking at the same speed. The body burns more calories because it works against gravity.
​WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week for overall health.
A 30-minute incline walk, done five days a week, fits neatly into that framework. The routine may look simple. The physiology behind it is not.
