The present invention relates to an inclining treadmill having a hood assembly pivotally coupled between the frame and the inclining tread base of the treadmill. The configuration of the pivoting hood assembly allows the inclining tread base to incline to a grade of at least 20 percent. The pivot point of the pivoting hood assembly is positioned distally from the distal end of the tread base. The pivoting hood assembly is positioned at an angle to greater than 40 degrees when the tread base is at its greatest grade of incline. A lift motor engages a channel bracket assembly of the pivoting hood assembly at a point distal to the pivot point of the pivoting hood assembly. The inclining tread base is linked to the frame of the treadmill by being coupled to the pivoting hood assembly.