An exercise machine for performing an exercise motion. A resistance mechanism controls a resistance for performing the exercise motion. An incline adjustment device controls an incline for performing the exercise motion. A control system is operatively coupled to the resistance mechanism and the incline adjustment device and is configured to receive a resistance setting for controlling the resistance, receive an incline setting for controlling the incline, and determine a resistance modifier for adjusting the resistance based on the incline setting. The control system is further configured to adjust the resistance setting based on the resistance modifier to provide a modified resistance setting, control the incline adjustment device based on the incline setting, and control the resistance mechanism based on the modified resistance setting to thereby cause an exertion by a user for performing the exercise motion to change when the incline setting is changed.