The Simple Treadmill Workout Behind Kriti Sanon’s Lean Cocktail 2 Look

Kriti Sanon’s strikingly lean and toned look in Cocktail 2 has become a major talking point ever since the trailer dropped. According to her fitness coach Karan Sawhney, the actress trained six days a week and combined heavy strength training, a high-protein diet and regular incline walking sessions to achieve the physique required for the role. The goal, he revealed, was not to become “size zero” but to look fit, lean and strong on screen. Incline walking was a key part of that transformation. So, what exactly is incline walking, and why are fitness experts increasingly recommending it? (Images: Instagram/@kritisanon)

Walking on an inclined treadmill forces your body to work harder than walking on a flat surface. As a result, you burn more calories in the same amount of time, making it an effective option for those looking to lose body fat. Kriti’s trainer specifically highlighted incline walks as part of her plan for “slow, sustainable fat burn without muscle loss.” This makes it a useful tool for those aiming to look toned rather than simply lose weight. (Image: Instagram/@kritisanon)

The uphill motion engages the glutes, hamstrings, calves and quadriceps more intensely than regular walking. Over time, this can help improve lower-body strength and definition. (Image: Pexels)

Many people find incline walking more comfortable than high-impact cardio exercises such as running. It can raise the heart rate significantly while placing less stress on the knees and ankles. Walking uphill challenges the heart and lungs, helping improve endurance and overall cardiovascular health when done consistently. (Image: Pexels)

One reason incline walking is popular among fitness coaches is that it can complement strength training programmes. Unlike excessive high-intensity cardio, it helps increase calorie expenditure without interfering too much with muscle recovery. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gym-goer, treadmill incline settings can be modified according to your fitness level. Even a moderate incline can significantly increase workout intensity. (Image: Pexels)

Walking against an incline naturally engages the core muscles and can encourage a more upright posture, provided you avoid leaning heavily on the treadmill handles. (Image: Pexels)

Not everyone enjoys intense workouts. Incline walking offers an accessible way to stay active, especially for people who are returning to exercise after a break. (Image: Pexels)

Kriti Sanon’s transformation wasn’t the result of a single workout. Her trainer stressed the importance of consistency, discipline, strength training, nutrition and adequate recovery. Incline walking worked because it was part of a well-rounded routine rather than a quick fix. (Image: Instagram/@kritisanon)