If you want a whole-body workout that focuses your arms, legs, and chest while having little to no stress on your joints, running on a machine is a far better option than running on concrete. As a result, investing in an elliptical machine is the best way to fill up your spare room at home and the first piece of equipment you need for your home gym.
What is a Cross Trainer?
An elliptical trainer, sometimes known as a cross trainer, is a type of workout equipment that replicates a variety of cardiovascular activities such as walking or jogging, stair-stepping, or cross-country skiing. Elliptical machines feature suspended pedals that travel forwards and backwards, or up and down, on a track. On an elliptical trainer, the user's foot never touches the ground, removing the jarring effect of walking or running on a hard surface, which many back pain patients appreciate.
The suspended pedals travel on an oval-shaped track and give leg exercise, and most trainers are constructed so that the resistance can be adjusted to make the workout lighter or more hard. Movement on the trainer does not jolt or stress the spinal structures since the elliptical motion is fluid.
If you are looking to buy an elliptical trainer, the first thing you should look for is a smooth motion and a smooth change between the resistance levels of the same. The second thing is a cardio compass display for clear workout feedback that helps you stay in your target exertion zone.
Some elliptical trainers only have a fixed stride length that may or may not be acceptable, but others include adjustable stride lengths that allow the user to determine the most comfortable stride length.
Different Types of Cross Trainers
An elliptical machine in your home gym might be the ideal entry point into cardio for many people, but like other workout machines, there are several alternatives to consider. Elliptical trainers are available in a variety of sizes and with a variety of features that may be of interest to you. One significant difference between elliptical types is the varying forms and positions of the flywheel or drive system.
Standard Cross Elliptical Trainer
If you want to work out your entire body, an elliptical cross-trainer is a great option. The adjustable grips that train your arms, in addition to the pedals for your lower body that most ellipticals have, set this model distinct and work your full body. When you push and pull on the grips of an elliptical cross-trainer, you're exercising your elbows, shoulders, back, and chest while pedalling and working your lower body.
Recumbent Elliptical Trainer
Not every elliptical machine needs you to stand while using it. A recumbent elliptical trainer allows you to work out while sitting down. The pedalling action on a recumbent elliptical is longer and has a smaller effect on joints than on a recumbent exercise bike. A recumbent elliptical machine also has a grip on either side that you may move forwards and back like a cross-trainer. It offers a wide range of comfort and modification possibilities, making it an ideal piece of equipment for persons with limited mobility.
Centre Drive Elliptical Trainers
There are additional elliptical machines whose distinguishing feature is the position of the flywheel. Center drive ellipticals are relatively new equipment that is ideal for home use because of their small size. A central drive elliptical trainer, like a cross-trainer, may provide a full-body cardio exercise by mimicking a walk or jog with adjustable handlebars.
Front Drive Elliptical Trainers
A front-drive elliptical trainer is another type of elliptical that is distinguished by the placement of the flywheel. The increased vertical range of motion for this type of elliptical is quite comparable to that of a stair climber. The machine, also known as a shuffle trainer, is a terrific alternative for individuals searching for a home gym option that is closer to the ground.
Rear Drive Elliptical Trainers
The last type of elliptical trainer on this list is known as a rear-drive elliptical trainer, and it is the oldest choice available, having been invented by Precor in the 1990s. The rear-drive elliptical trainer, as the name implies, places the flywheel at the back of the machine, allowing for a longer stride in front of the machine with the pedals in the middle.
Reasons to Use a Cross Trainer at Home
Safe to Use
Cross trainers are quite easy to use. The level of resistance you choose on a cross-trainer dictates how much work you must use to keep your feet moving. The speed is determined by your own movement. If you wish to stop at any time, simply stop moving and the machine will stop as well. This provides you total control over the workout's speed and intensity.
Provides a Full Body Workout
The cross trainer is a highly adaptable piece of equipment that can help you obtain a full-body exercise. Specific muscle groups can be targeted using the routines. Hold onto the grips and pump the handle back and forth to train your chest, arms, and shoulders. Your lower body will be worked when you move your feet on the pedal. Simply raise the resistance to target the glutes. You may tone your torso and work on your stomach by letting go of the handlebars.
Vary the Intensity of Your Workout
Another advantage of the cross trainer is that you maintain control throughout. When using a cross trainer, you can simulate a short walk, a run, or a difficult stair climb. To modify the sort of training, simply change the resistance of the machine and the speed at which you move. In order to increase your fitness, consider some high-intensity interval training. This entails alternating high-intensity bursts with low-intensity intervals. You can go at a comfortable pace and then throw in a few high-intensity bursts for a low-impact interval workout.
The Convenience of Working Out at Home
A cross trainer machine should be at the top of your equipment wish list if you prefer to work out at home rather than attending a gym. They are reasonably priced, take up little space, and give a full-body exercise. The cross trainer is frequently ignored as home gym equipment, with many people opting for a treadmill instead.
