Using a cross trainer is an impact-free way to burn calories, develop your endurance and tone your entire body.
The elliptical cross trainer is a great all-rounder to boost your fitness if you're looking for a body workout that works around 80% of your body. But as with all exercise equipment, there are a wide variety of brands, features and price-points to consider. Find out what to look out for to find the right machine to suit you.
Decathlon's fitness brand offers useful suggestions for your workouts.
Choosing a cross trainer will depend on your fitness goals (getting/staying in shape, losing weight, performance development) and there are five criteria to consider: how often you’ll use it, pedalling action, coaching, comfort and handling.
If you’re really keen to get into shape or push yourself towards a new goal, you’ll probably be using your cross trainer more often, but if you’re keeping on top of your health or pedalling as a little extra to your first fitness love (maybe running or kickboxing), you’ll use it less. So far, so simple.
For Occasional Use
If you want to get back into doing sports or stay in shape, opt for a cross-trainer with manual adjustments and simple programs with basic information. These models are easy to use and are excellent for occasional use.
For Regular Use
To help you lose weight or tone up, we suggest choosing a model with various programs to keep you motivated. These models are great for training more regularly.
For Intensive Usage
To develop your endurance and performance, choose a model with more features. These models are designed for intensive use and offer a greater number of functions, such as a heart rate monitor and coaching solutions.
Comfortable pedalling means a smooth motion without jerks. The flywheel weight is a major factor in this action, which is why we suggest choosing a model with a flywheel weighing at least 3kg for improved joint comfort.
The heavier the weight, the more comfortable pedalling will be, especially if you train regularly. You should try several models to find the level of pedalling comfort that suits you best.
Different cross-trainers offer different features:
1. Basic indicators on all cross trainers will provide the information you need to start out: speed, distance, exercise time, average calories burnt, etc.
2. Various programmes (such as weight loss, performance development, etc.) and heart rate tracking are a great way to change up your workouts, track your progress and develop.
Remember that for maximum accuracy on heart rate, you should opt for models with a heart rate strap.
Compatible applications for certain cross-trainers can give you a customised workout depending on your physical ability and goals.
Some cross trainers have adjustable handlebars and pedals. These are important features to consider as they let you adjust the cross trainer to suit your body.
For easy storage of your cross trainer at home, certain models feature wheels meaning you can move your equipment as necessary.
Cross-trainers are the perfect equipment for those who want a cardio workout that won't add impact to their knee and ankle joints. A cross trainer or elliptical trainer isn't just a leg workout, if you give it your all, the motion will give you a full-body workout.
