Tired of bad weather disturbing your workouts and ready to bring your training indoors? A folding treadmill is one of the smartest investments you can make for your home fitness journey. Specifically designed as a small treadmill for apartment dwellers, these machines are compact enough to save space while still delivering effective results.
The Tousains foldable treadmill with incline EM5 takes this a step further, adding a layer of versatility that most compact models lack. But is it truly the best folding treadmill to buy this year? Let’s take a look.
What Does Incline on a Treadmill Do?
It’s more than just height on your treadmill; it adds more versatility to your treadmill workouts.
Increased Calorie Burn: Walking or running on an incline usually burns more calories than flat-surface training. According to Verywell Health, you’ll burn about 12% more calories than on flat ground.
Targeted Muscle Engagement: Steeper angles shift the focus to your posterior chain, specifically activating the glutes, hamstrings, and calves.
Reduced Joint Impact: Research revealed that walking on an incline reduces internal knee-abduction moments, which may safeguard joint health by slowing cartilage breakdown, alleviating discomfort, and delaying the progression of medial tibiofemoral osteoarthritis. [1]
Cardiovascular Endurance: Incline training forces your heart and lungs to work harder, improving your overall endurance and functional fitness levels.
Tousains Foldable Treadmill with Incline: The Space Saver
Finding the best folding treadmill for a small space often feels like a compromise between size and features. The Tousains EM5 shatters that mold. Here is how you can benefit from this space-saving treadmill:
Upgrade Your Workout with a Manual 7° Incline

Most compact units are limited to flat walking, but the Tousains EM5 features a manual 7° incline. This simulates mountain hiking, which targets your glutes and hamstrings more effectively while burning up to 450 kcal per hour.
Switch Between Walking, Jogging, and Running
Whether you need a work-from-home session or a morning cardio, this small treadmill for apartments adapts to your rhythm.
- Walk Mode: Fold the handrail down to use it as an under-desk walking pad (up to 3.7 mph).
- Run Mode: Unfold the rail to unlock speeds up to 7.5 mph for heart-pumping cardio.
Train with Free Courses on the Tousains App
If you’re bothered by endless monthly fees charged by fitness apps, the Tousains foldable treadmill with incline is your go-to choice. By downloading the Tousains App, you get access to guided video workouts for all levels and goals, and the forthcoming AI smart coaching, making it the best home treadmill without subscription requirements.
Move It Effortlessly with Wheels
Portability is at the heart of this best flat folding treadmill. Weighing just 25 kg (53 lbs) and standing only 5.2 inches high when folded, it can be tucked under a sofa or bed in seconds. Thanks to built-in transport wheels, you can roll it from your living room to any corner of your apartment.
Enjoy Your Routine with a Solid Framework
Despite its space-saving title, the Tousains foldable treadmill with incline EM5 doesn't feel flimsy. It boasts a 316 lb weight capacity and a 20-inch wide deck, providing a stable and comfortable stride for users of all sizes. The brushless motor keeps noise levels below 45 dB, so you can work out at any time.
Beginner Treadmill Workout with Tousains EM5
When you’ve got this folding treadmill, follow this 25-minute workout to start your routine right away.

Warm-up: 5 Minutes
Speed: 2.0 – 2.5 mph (Light Walk)
Incline: 0% (Flat)
Setup: Start with the treadmill flat to get your muscles warm and joints moving comfortably.
Main Work: 15 Minutes
Speed: 3.0 mph (Power Walk)
Incline: 7° (Climb Mode)
Why: Instead of sprinting at high speeds, we use the 7° incline to boost your heart rate and engage your glutes. This allows you to burn more calories at a walking pace, making it safer and more effective for beginners.
Cool-down: 5 Minutes (Optional: Return the treadmill to 0% or simply slow the speed)
Speed: 1.5 – 2.0 mph
Incline: 7° or 0%
Goal: Allow your heart rate to recover.
Conclusion
A folding treadmill isn’t a word for bad quality. The Tousains foldable treadmill with incline EM5 provides everything you need to stay fit at home, from the 7° incline, various speed range, movable design, to app connectivity. Whether you prefer a regular walking routine, light jogging, or running of moderate intensity, the Tousains EM5 covers them all.
So, if you are looking for the best folding treadmill for a small space with an incline, the Tousains EM5 will be the best budget one under $300. Stop letting the weather or a lack of space dictate your health. With its 316 lb weight capacity and ultra-slim 5.2" profile, the Tousains EM5 is ready to help you find your pace and own your space.
References:
[1] Haggerty, M., et al. (2014). The influence of incline walking on joint mechanics. Gait & Posture, 39(4), 1017-1021.

