A Low-Impact, Full-Body Workout
Cross trainers, also known as elliptical trainers, are popular pieces of fitness equipment designed to simulate movements like walking, running, and stair climbing, but with a key advantage: they are gentle on the joints. This makes them an ideal option for people of all fitness levels, especially those recovering from injuries or looking for a low-impact workout alternative.
Why Choose a Cross Trainer?
One of the biggest benefits of using a cross trainer is that it provides a cardiovascular workout without the pounding impact of activities like running. Because your feet remain in constant contact with the pedals, there’s minimal joint stress on the knees, hips and ankles. This can help reduce the risk of injury while still allowing for an effective workout that boosts heart health, burns calories, and supports weight management.
Best Selling Cross Trainers
Adjustable Intensity to Suit Your Goals
Cross trainers offer customisable workouts depending on your goals and fitness level. You can:
- Increase or decrease resistance to make your session easier or more challenging
- Adjust the incline or stride length on certain models to target different muscle groups, such as the glutes, hamstrings or calves
- Control your speed to shift between steady-state cardio and high-intensity intervals
This versatility makes cross trainers suitable whether you’re looking for a light warm-up, a steady endurance session, or a tougher, sweat-inducing cardio blast.
A Full-Body Workout – If You Want It
Many cross trainers come with moving handlebars, allowing you to engage both the upper and lower body in a single motion. This adds a resistance-based workout for your arms, shoulders, and chest, while your legs and core continue to work. However, some models have stationary handles, which focus more on the lower body.
Either way, you’ll be getting an excellent aerobic workout that can help improve your stamina, coordination, and overall fitness.
Ideal for Home Use
If you’re considering adding a piece of cardio equipment to your home gym, a cross trainer is a solid choice. Here’s why:
- Quiet operation – Unlike treadmills, there are no footfalls or loud motor noise
- Compact design – Many models are space-efficient and suitable for home use
- Multi-functionality – A single machine can offer varied workouts targeting different parts of the body
- User-friendly – Most cross trainers come with simple digital consoles to track time, distance, calories burned, and heart rate
Prices can vary depending on features, but entry-level cross trainers start at around £200, with more advanced models offering extra features like Bluetooth connectivity, built-in workout programmes, and adjustable incline.
Cross Trainers and Physiotherapy
For individuals recovering from injury, or those with joint or mobility concerns—cross trainers are often recommended as part of a rehabilitation plan. Since the movement is low-impact but still weight-bearing, it allows the user to maintain cardiovascular fitness without placing too much stress on injured areas.
However, it’s crucial to consult a physiotherapist or GP before using a cross trainer if you’re recovering from an injury or have a medical condition. While beneficial for many, not every injury or situation is suitable for this kind of exercise.
Final Thoughts
Cross trainers are a versatile, low-impact option for anyone looking to improve fitness, support weight loss, maintain heart health, or stay active during recovery. Whether you’re a beginner or a regular gym-goer, this machine can be tailored to suit your needs.
With the right settings, posture, and consistency, a cross trainer can become an effective tool in your fitness journey, helping you to move better, feel stronger, and stay motivated.
Best Selling Cross Trainers by Brand
