Imagine you’re a power walker on a Miami sidewalk who carries weights or who uses your arm movements to leverage maximum power as you walk. You get the picture? A cross trainer allows you to create a similar workout albeit without physically moving and without South Beach as your view (unless you choose an interactive workout programme).

Excellent features (Integrated tablet holder, bottle holder, EKG grips, i-pad compatible, Bluetooth)This may not seem an issue, but it means that if you unplug the machine you lose your data. In one way, the basic console on the Plus model is better because the battery retains information without needing to be near a mains electricity outlet.

A cross trainer, also known as an elliptical machine, either has one or two sets of arms (one static and one moveable). Depending on the type of arms the machine has or depending on how confident you are, you push and pull the arms in time with your pedal movement (or just hold on if static). Using one of these machines requires a bit of concentration at first until you find your stride and sense of coordination, as with any new experience, but if in doubt, just get your feet right in the first instance and add in arm movements a little later on.Aimed at those who are REALLY on a tight budget, this space and money-saving 2-in-1 elliptical trainer is a winner! The more advanced Gold model is also simple to use, but obviously you will have to interact with the more advanced control panel to get the best out of it. The heavier flywheel gives you a better range of options, and a more solid base to work from, plus a smoother ride. These are all home self-assembly products, and we would recommend that they be constructed by two people.

When starting out, always ensure that you warm up and cool down after your training and build up gradually. A low-level warm up will set you on your way and as your fitness improves, you can increase the level or opt for a more intense workout (defined by more time, fat burning or intervals, as examples). Is a Cross Trainer Good for Weight Loss? As the name suggests, this equipment is usable for two purposes: as a cross trainer or an exercise bike. With a high resistance from the handles and the pedals, the machine offers a full body workout when you use it as a cross trainer. A cross trainer is one of many functional cardio machines, designed to give you a full aerobic workout whilst allowing you to control the pace and goal of your training. A cross trainer workout is low impact and high output, designed to get the heart pumping whilst at the same time, working arms and legs in a fixed or gradual rhythm.So, with such a small price difference between the three models, we would have to conclude that the extra features, build quality, stability and long-term progressive use you can get, the Platinum model offers brilliant value for money. In the Plus model, you get a basic console that is battery operated. In the Gold and Platinum models, you get a more powerful set of options, but the consoles are mains operated. The digital display just needs 2 AA batteries and needs to be programmed. There are also transportation wheels to allow you to move the equipment easily. You can multitask or personalize your workouts thanks to the integrated tablet holder and the attached bottle holder.

The target buyers for this hybrid cross trainer and exercise bike range from total beginners to advanced workout enthusiasts. This is why it’s important to base your decision-making on these essential criteria: Who is going to use it?

What Does a Cross Trainer Do?

While the idea of a 2-in-1 elliptical cross trainer is money and space-saving from the start, it can be quite an investment. When there is a range of products that obviously is encouraging you to trade up to the top version, it can be tough to resist this. If you don’t need all the features and accompanying complexity of the top range product, then you have to make an informed decision about which version will suit your needs. This piece of equipment is an all-rounder- it is perfect to help you with your fitness regime with both the option to use as a cross trainer or an exercise bike. It is low impact, so you can burn those calories without worrying about hurting your joints. Will the machine’s size and shape adhere to your built and stamina, or will other family members use it too? Based on the recommended height and weight limitations, and adjustability of the machine, you can narrow down the choices, as well as have a better insight into the required budget. How much are you willing to invest? If you are looking for a cross trainer in the low-to-mid price range, then you are literally spoilt for choice. But the sheer amount of choice can make a decision difficult to make, as seen by our guide to the best cross trainers.