NordicTrack, JTX and more, tested

<h2 class=”body-h2″><strong>What is a cross trainer?</strong> </h2><p>You may have come across the cross trainer in your local gym. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? </p><p>“The cross trainer is piece of stationary fitness equipment that allows you to work the upper and lower body simultaneously,” says Chinoy. “It has two foot plates and two handlebars, which you push and pull as your legs move back and forth, delivering a full-body cardio workout.” </p><p>She explains that while the terms ‘cross trainer’ and ‘elliptical’ are often used interchangeably, the cross trainer is a particular type of elliptical machine. “While standard elliptical machines have fixed arms and only target the lower body, the cross trainer stands out for its moveable handles,” she says. </p><h2 class=”body-h2″><strong>Are cross trainers worth it?</strong> </h2><p>That’s a resounding yes. According to Chinoy, it’s one of the most <a href=” target=”_blank”>versatile</a> machines out there. Here, she breaks down some of the main benefits. </p><p><strong>Low impact: </strong>Unlike running on a treadmill, a cross trainer doesn’t require the same pounding of your joints as your feet stay in contact with the plates at all times. As such, you can work on your cardiovascular fitness, without putting your muscles and joints under stress. There’s also less risk of injury and it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels. </p><p><strong>Cardiovascular </strong><strong>benefits:</strong> Despite the reduced load, don’t be deceived – the cross trainer still offers an effective cardiovascular workout. “You can still achieve all the benefits of running, such as increased lung capacity, heart strength, reduced blood pressure and weight loss,” points out Chinoy. </p><p><strong>Versatile: </strong>The cross trainer allows you to work out at the intensity that’s right for you. You can opt for an easy, continuous pace to develop your aerobic capacity, or try challenging interval sessions that will really boost your fitness. </p><p><strong>Unobtrusive:</strong> The cross trainer is one of the quietest bits of kit available and it generally has a smaller footprint than a treadmill or <a href=” target=”_blank”>rowing machine</a>, making it a good choice if you haven’t got your own dedicated home gym. </p><h2 class=”body-h2″><strong>What is the correct way to use a cross trainer?</strong> </h2><p>It’s important that you maintain the correct form for safety and to get the most out of your workout. Here are Chinoy’s top tips. </p><ul><li>Stand tall (imagine a piece of string pulling you up from the crown of your head towards the ceiling) and look out in front of you.</li><li> Keep your shoulders relaxed and ensure your feet stay in contact with the plate at all times.</li><li>Try to avoid lifting your heels as you pedal. Keep your knees and elbows relaxed and engage your core – thinking about pulling the belly button in towards the spine can help with this.</li><li>If you find your posture slackens, do a full body scan from head to toe every five minutes to check to your form. You can then reset your body position as needed. </li></ul><h2 class=”body-h2″><strong>How we test</strong> </h2><p>Our <a href=” target=”_blank”>GHI </a>experts set to work trialling the top cross trainers on the market before judging them on instructions, ease of use, design and, most importantly, performance. </p><p>They considered how easy the machines were to set up, if they took up significant floor space, how smooth and stable they were, and whether adjusting the resistance was a faff-free process. </p><p>Overall scores were awarded, with only the ellipticals that met our exacting standards receiving the GHI seal of approval. </p><p>The remaining products have been hand-picked by our editors, who have put their fitness knowledge to good use to bring you their personal favourites. </p><p>Without further ado, let’s take that home workout to the next level, shall we? </p>”/>