A cardio workout is a great way to get in shape, and cross trainers are perfect for such workouts. How does a cross trainer work? Which cross trainer should you choose for a comfortable but effective workout?
A cardio workout is a great way to get in shape, and cross trainers are perfect for such workouts. How does a cross trainer work? Which cross trainer should you choose for a comfortable but effective workout?
How do cross trainers work?
Knowledge about how a cross trainer works is important, because it will let you determine whether or not it will meet your requirements. The first and probably the most fundamental issue in this regard is the type of braking mechanism, i.e. the mechanism responsible for resistance during your workout.
The simplest type is a cross trainer with a mechanical brake. Although it does not have any advanced programmes, it is sufficient for a basic workout.
If you are looking for a more complex solution in terms of functions, a magnetic cross trainer will probably be better. Its braking system operates using magnets. There is therefore no friction, which means that during training you will not experience a distracting noise. You will come across two types of such cross trainers – manually controlled and with an electronic control panel.
The first one does not require connection to electricity, does not have any training programmes, and its display is battery-powered. Magnetic cross trainers with an electronic control panel gave training programmes and are often compatible with mobile devices. Full functionality, however, requires being connected to the power supply.
The most technologically advanced version of cross trainers are those with an electromagnetic brake. Their construction also makes them the most reliable type in terms of durability. The brakes have no moving parts, so they can withstand more intense workout sessions. Electromagnetic cross trainers offer a wide range of features and also have a smooth and very precise scale of resistance adjustment. They need to be plugged in.
What should you pay attention to when choosing the best one for you?
If you’re wondering which cross trainer to buy, it’s worth taking a look at how they are built. The frame plays an important role here, and it should be as straight and as stiff as possible. This is more important than additional functions such as MP3 or Bluetooth options.
You should also check the stability of your chosen cross trainer. Under no circumstances should it vibrate or sway when in use. Also pay attention to the flywheel. You could regret it later on, if you do not take this aspect into account at this stage. There is a myth that the greater the weight of the wheel, the better quality the device. In practice, however, the shorter the user, the lighter the wheel should be.
If you’re wondering which endurance training equipment to choose, also check if it is front-drive or rear-drive. What is the difference? The front-drive type has a flywheel and braking system at the front, while in the case of the rear-drive option the flywheel is placed at the back. This is important, because the footprint size often depends on the type of the machine.
Recommended product
- Efficiency – to work out your arm, leg, abdominal and torso muscles
- The display – shows time, speed, distance, repetitions and calories burned
- Compact – with a size of 85.5 x 58.5 cm it fits into any room
- Comfort – wide abdominal cushion and soft coated handles
- Mobility – 2 wheels for easy transport
Basic technical specifications – a cross trainer for home use
Which other parameters should you pay attention to when deciding which cross trainer to choose? What will guarantee an effective workout?
We have already mentioned the weight of the flywheel and the fact that a lighter wheel is recommended for shorter users. So the flywheel is partly responsible for the resistance. Therefore shorter users will find it more difficult to use cross trainers with very heavy flywheels.
Resistance regulation is also important. Electronic resistance regulation with a digital display is much more convenient than manual resistance regulation. Any adjustments can then be made during your workout.
When considering which cross trainer to choose, you should also bear in mind it weight, size and load capacity. Too heavy equipment can be difficult to transport, and very large models make not fit the space available in your home or even gym.
When analysing what’s on offer, also pay attention to various additional features. Advanced cross trainers will include such additional features as training programmes and distance, speed, heart rate and calorie burn measurement.
As a substitute for a cross trainer, it’s worth extending your training plan to include equipment such as a vibration platform, stationary bike or treadmill, which will improve your fitness and make you feel better with cardio training.
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Full Body Vibration Machine – 53 x 37 cm – up to 120 kg
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Exercise Bike – collapsible – backrest – additional handles – black / red
229.00 €179.00 € -
Treadmill – 1350 W – 1 – 20 km/h – 120 kg – 12 programmes
1,499.00 €1,049.00 € -
Treadmill – folding – 1350 W – 1 – 20 km/h – 150 kg – 12 programmes – fan
How to match the cross trainer to your physical condition
The features and technical specifications are not the only aspects you should keep in mind. You should also choose a model that suits your height. Check the length of the handles. The stride length and the height at which the display or control panel are mounted also play an important role when it comes to comfort of use.
Users over 6 feet tall should look for cross trainers with a stride greater than 16 inches. A stride length of 12-14 inches will be ok for users below 5 foot 4. This aspect is important, because inappropriate equipment will limit the comfort of the user. This may even negatively affect the overall results of your workout regime.
Cross trainers for professional gyms
When on the topic of choosing the right cross trainer for your needs, it is also worth having a look at professional equipment for use in gyms and fitness clubs. Such cross trainers have a large number of additional features, and their quality allows for much more frequent use than in the case of a machine for home use.
Professional cross trainers are the best type available on the market. They come with a commercial warranty. In practice, it means that they are intended for use by many different people. So if you decide to buy a cross trainer from this user segment, you will not need to worry about the height of weight of the user. In short, professional cross trainers can be used by anyone.
There are stationary bikes in the gym alongside cross trainers. If you are wondering which bike to choose when exercising check out the article: Magnetic or mechanical stationary bike – a comprehensive guide to exercise equipment.
Which cross trainer should you choose – summary
A cross trainer is an endurance exercise machine that engages both the lower and upper muscles during your workout. When choosing a specific model, make sure it matches your physical condition. Also pay attention to the design and additional functions that can improve your results and make your workouts more enjoyable.
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