In recent years, incline training has gained traction as a highly effective cardio method. Backed by emerging research, incline-based exercise—when integrated thoughtfully into a workout regimen—offers a powerful way to improve metabolic efficiency, body composition, and caloric output. A recent case study of TRUE Fitness’ Alpine Runner Incline Trainer treadmill confirms these benefits through real-world use, demonstrating that this treadmill isn’t just advanced—it’s a superior tool for weight loss and fitness.
A Study-Based Look at the Alpine Runner’s Impact
A six-week case study conducted at a commercial fitness facility compared the TRUE Alpine Runner with standard treadmills, measuring outcomes in metabolic rate, body composition, and user behavior. The Alpine Runner features a one-touch, user-friendly interface with a -3% decline to 30% incline range, encouraging users to vary intensity more than with traditional treadmills. Here’s what the study found:
Burn More Calories, Naturally
In a two-week usage comparison, users of the Alpine Runner consistently self-selected higher walking and running intensities. While total hours of use between the Alpine Runner and control treadmills were not significantly different, the Alpine Runner users logged significantly more miles per hour (p = 0.01) and total daily mileage (p = 0.00002). This indicates that users naturally gravitated toward more intense workouts, leading to greater caloric expenditure over the same duration.
Improve Metabolic Health
The Alpine Runner group showed a statistically significant improvement in metabolic profile over the six-week program. Specifically, there was a measurable increase in the percentage of fat burned at rest (p = 0.03181) and a corresponding decrease in carbohydrate use (p = 0.03209). While changes in resting metabolic rate (RMR) were not statistically significant over the short timeframe, trends suggested improvement, consistent with expectations for the six-week study.
Supports Healthy Body Composition
Participants who trained with the Alpine Runner experienced notable changes in body composition. Most significantly, they saw a reduction in abdominal circumference (p = 0.007)—a key indicator of improved health and fat loss. Reductions in arm circumference were also significant (p = 0.004). Though other fat-related metrics (arm and abdominal fat thickness) trended positively, these did not reach statistical significance within the study window.
Better Equipment, Better Results
The study highlights that the Alpine Runner’s intuitive design and variable intensity features naturally guide users toward more effective workouts. Unlike standard treadmills, which often see users sticking to flat, low-intensity sessions, the Alpine Runner encourages variation and challenge—essential components of long-term fitness success.
The TRUE Alpine Runner isn’t just another treadmill—it’s a research-backed tool for better fitness outcomes. Whether your members are looking to burn more fat, improve endurance, or achieve lasting weight loss, the Alpine Runner is a clear upgrade. Add it to your gym floor to empower users to reach new heights—literally and physically.