SEARCHING for an exercise machine that does it all? A cross trainer could be the way to go.
Unlike other gym staples like a treadmill or an exercise bike, a cross trainer works your arms, legs and core – helping you to lose weight, stay in shape and tone your muscles, all at the same time.
Also known as elliptical trainers, there are a number of different factors to consider when buying a cross trainer – including maximum user weight, stride length, how they’re powered and whether you want to be able to connect to interactive training programmes such as iFit.
Other things to be aware of are flywheel weights (generally, the heavier the better), and how the resistance levels are altered – magnetic set-ups are seen on cheaper models, while more expensive machines use an ‘induction brake system’ that essentially modifies the voltage to increase or decrease resistance.
Finally, it’s worth bearing in mind the size of a cross trainer. While fold-up machines are available (such as the NordicTrack Space Saver featured below), the majority have a large footprint. Although they are big, they are still a worthwhile investment and are something of an all-in-one home gym.
Not sure where to start in your search for the best cross trainer? Check out the below to find the right one for your needs.
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Best professional cross trainer
- Life Span Commercial Elliptical Trainer E5I+, £1699 from Decathlon - buy here
If you're looking for a professional cross trainer for home, the E5I+ Elliptical is for you. This machine will constantly provide you with a fresh task to focus on, with up to 20 resistance levels and 21 challenging training programmes. Can't seem to locate a training programme that meets your requirements? Not an issue with the E5I+, simply utilise one of two manual user programmes to create your own training regimen.
The maximum user weight of 182 kg and a 50-centimeter stride length. The pedals are barely 6 centimetres apart, making workouts seem extremely natural and similar to regular walking - it also features a media-holder to get fully entertained while exercising.
This elliptical trainer has the capacity to produce its own power, so the only way to activate it is to exercise. Since it does not require a plug or any energy at all, this elliptical is both environmentally, budget friendly and a great investment.
Best beginner elliptical cross trainer
- Reebok GX40 Cross Trainer, £349.99 at Amazon - buy here
Beginners won’t generally need a model with adjustable incline, stride and a hulking flywheel – but you don’t want to risk getting a model that merely goes through the motions.
No danger there with the GX40, a sturdy cross trainer, which literally covers all the basics.
A 5.75” LCD display guides you through your session, with console feedback on speed, distance, calories and pulse.
With a 7kg flywheel, 8 levels of resistance and 15-inch stride length, this will go as fast or slow as you power it.
It’s pretty quiet too for a basic model, and the transportation wheels make it easy to move it out of sight once you’re done.
Best low impact cross trainer
- Branx Fitness Magnetic 'X-Fit' Cross Trainer, £799 at Amazon - buy here
This cross trainer is ideal for nearly anybody looking for a full-body low-impact workout.
The 'X-Fit' (iConsole+) Cross Trainer features the 'much-desired' 19.5" stride length, following more than a year of development and more than 500 hours of testing - so we can be sure this is going to be a good one. It's incredible in terms of quality and durability, and it won't be beaten on price, quality, usefulness, or style.
The machine features a built in Heart Rate Control with chest strap and water bottle included, also a USB charging station.
The resistance monitor is useful for measuring performance and strengthening muscles, such as body fat, pace, and duration.
"If you're looking for a solid piece of fitness equipment for your home that helps improve your workout consistency and improves your health, Branx's cross-trainer is definitely a must have. Since the assembly on 19 Aug 2019, I accumulated about 23 hours in workouts. Overall, I'm extremely happy with the purchase and it is an excellent buy for the low cost." Writes one satisfied customer.
Best magnetic elliptical cross trainer
- Proform 7.0 Elliptical Cross-Trainer, £1299 at Sweat Band – buy here
A varying magnetic field to control the resistance is essential for those who want to keep track of their workout, instead of mindless pulling and pressing down.
The Proform goes a step further by taking the guesswork out of it completely, with your target power output and actual real-time power output clearly displayed on the LED to keep you on track with your fitness goals.
Featuring 22 levels of magnetic resistance, an 11kg flywheel, adjustable stride lengths up to 53cm and an incline range of up to 20-inches, this is definitely one for the serious trainer.
The 29 pre-set workouts have all the guidance you need to push yourself to the max.
It's possible to log your screen onto Google Maps and pretty much run anywhere in the world using Google Streetview, while it's compatible with iFit Coach BLE technology.
Best incline cross trainer machine
- JTX Tri-Fit cross trainer, £709 at JTX – buy here
Incline cross trainers are great for those looking to target core muscles and upper thighs, but they tend to be basic on home gym cross trainers.
Not so with the JTX, which gives you three levels of adjustable incline, plus full control over the incline adjustments, allowing you to change it independently of the stride length.
Combine this with an imposing 17kg flywheel, 16 levels of electro-magnetic resistance and stride lengths of up to 51cm and you have a complete full-body workout at your feet.
The JTX Tri-Fit features a computer capable of connecting via Bluetooth to a free iConsole app - useful to create motivating visual training tools to help you step up to challenges.
Best stride home cross trainer
- Life Fitness E1 Elliptical Cross Trainer, £2,195 from Fitness Inn – buy here
The longer the stride length, the more muscles you can work, and the 20” stride length of the Life Fitness E1 is enough to satisfy the fastest of striders.
The 13 workout programmes and the ability to create your own custom plan make it a gym-worthy piece of kit, as does the 20 levels of resistance.
An easy-to-use colour display keeps tabs on essential stats such as calories, speed and heart rate monitoring through the included wireless chest strap.
Its maximum user weight (182kg) makes it accessible for most, and it’s ‘club-inspired’ titanium finish will allow you to give your home set-up that premium look.
Best folding cross trainer
- NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i cross trainer, £899 at NordicTrack – buy here
Space is an issue for most people considering a home gym, but there aren’t many sturdy cross trainers that can be neatly folded away – which makes the NordicTrack a blessing.
Simply fold down the handles and console and store it upright in the cupboard.
Of course, it’s pretty great when it’s running too. Featuring a 46cm stride length with adjustable oversized pedals, 22 digital levels of resistance, and an incline that can be adjusted up to 10 degrees, the NordicTrack also comes with a 5-inch backlit screen that guides you through 24 preset workouts.
The machine also comes with a free one-year membership to iFit and access to 16,000-plus on-demand classes.
How to use a cross trainer
Using a cross trainer for the first time can seem daunting, but with these 3 easy steps you should be able to use any machine without a problem.
What muscles does the cross trainer work?
Cross trainers are the best low impact cardio-based workouts, that will build up your muscles at the same time. They will target your legs and arms muscles simultaneously, whilst also strengthening your core.
More specifically, the muscles worked will be hamstrings and quadriceps mostly.
Are cross trainers good for weight loss?
Yes! If you want a low-impact workout, or to get started on a weight loss journey cross trainers are one of the best ways to do so.
They can help you burn a lot of extra calories while also strengthening and improving the condition of your heart and lungs. Exercising on a cross trainer is beneficial for getting your heart rate into the weight-loss and fitness zones, without having to do strenuous exercises.
MORE SUN SELECTS HEALTH AND FITNESS
Found our round-up of the best cross trainers useful? Check out our selection of the best cheap treadmills around.
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