If you’ve ever watched a mountain climber scale a steep peak and thought, “Wow, their glutes must be on fire,” you’d be absolutely right. Who among us has not experienced butt lightning after walking up a hill? 🧐
But what if you could get the same booty-burning benefits without battling altitude sickness? Enter the mountain climbing treadmill—a niche but effective alternative to steppers, stair climbers, and traditional treadmills.
So, does the mountain climbing machine work your glutes? Absolutely. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s break it down.
What Is a Mountain Climbing Treadmill?
The mountain climbing treadmill, like the Bells of Steel Blitz Mountain Climber, is a treadmill with an extreme incline. Unlike your basic, soul-sucking cardio machine, this one doesn’t move unless you move—meaning your legs, glutes, and lungs are working overtime to keep up.
Who Is It For?
✅ Athletes looking to level up their endurance
✅ Home gym owners tired of basic treadmills
✅ Lifters who don’t want to skip leg day (even on cardio days)
✅ Anyone who wants to set their glutes on fire
Does the Mountain Climbing Machine Work Out Glutes?
Short answer: Yes. With a vengeance.
Long answer: The steep incline and driving motion force your glutes, hamstrings, and quads to take the brunt of the work. Unlike a flat treadmill that lets momentum do some of the heavy lifting, the mountain climber treadmill requires you to actively push through every step, firing up those posterior chain muscles.
The more you engage your hips and drive through your heels, the more glute activation you’ll feel. Try it for five minutes, and you’ll understand why mountain climbers have legs of steel (and why sitting down the next day will be an issue).
What Other Muscles Does It Work?
The glutes steal the show, but they’re not working alone.
1. Quads & Hamstrings
Every step is a battle between your quads pulling you up and your hamstrings & glutes driving you forward. It’s like doing lunges… forever.
2. Calves
Because of the steep incline, your calves work overtime to keep your heels from slamming down. Bonus: calf definition incoming.
3. Core
Since you’re basically climbing a never-ending hill, your abs, obliques, and lower back are constantly engaged to keep you upright. Think of it as a sneaky core workout while you suffer through cardio.
4. Cardiovascular System
This machine will have your heart rate through the roof in no time. If you’re looking to build endurance while strengthening your legs, this is the way.
Benefits of the Mountain Climber Treadmill
1. Better Glute Engagement Than a Traditional Treadmill
A flat treadmill might keep you moving, but it won’t target your glutes like this inclined beast. If your goal is to strengthen and shape your backside, this is a solid choice.
2. More Fun Than a Stair Climber
Stair climbers are great for legs and glutes, but they can get repetitive. The mountain climbing treadmill offers a different challenge, keeping your workouts fresh and engaging.
3. Builds Endurance & Stamina
You’re not just walking—you’re climbing. The higher intensity means better conditioning, improved stamina, and stronger legs without needing to sprint on a treadmill like a maniac.
4. Saves Space in a Home Gym
The compact design makes it ideal for home gyms where space is limited. Plus, it’s quieter than a traditional treadmill, so your neighbors won’t hate you. Unless they hear you crying and gasping for breath, but that’s on you.
Is It for Everyone?
Let’s be honest—this machine isn’t for the faint of heart. If you’re looking for a casual stroll, a manual treadmill or stepper might be a better fit. But if you want a glute-scorching, leg-burning workout that also torches calories, the Blitz Mountain Climber is your new best friend (and worst enemy).
Mountain Climbing Machine FAQs
1. Can beginners use a mountain climbing treadmill?
Yes—but be prepared for a challenge. Start slow, focus on form, and build up gradually. Don’t try to go full speed on Day 1 unless you enjoy collapsing in a heap.
2. How long should I use it for?
That depends on your fitness level and goals. Start with 5-10 minutes, then work your way up. 20-30 minutes is plenty for a killer workout.
3. Is it better than a stair climber for glutes?
It’s different, but arguably better. The continuous climbing motion mimics real-life movement more naturally than stepping on a machine. Plus, you get more core and hamstring activation.
4. Can I use weights while on it?
Yes! Try wearing a weighted vest (like the Bells of Steel Adjustable Weight Vest) to crank up the intensity. Just be prepared for extra soreness the next day.
5. How does it compare to a traditional treadmill?
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Manual Treadmill: Good for steady-state cardio, but minimal glute activation.
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Mountain Climber Treadmill: High-intensity, full-leg activation, and way more glute-focused.
Conclusion
So, does the mountain climbing treadmill work out your glutes? That’s a resounding YES. It’s one of the best machines for building stronger, more powerful legs while boosting endurance.
If you’re tired of the same old cardio machines and want something that actually challenges you, the Bells of Steel Blitz Mountain Climber is worth the climb.
