Get Fit With A Cross Trainer
First designed back in the 90′s, the cross trainer has experienced huge surges of popularity. Found not only in gyms but in homes throughout the world, a cross trainer has the ability to help you achieve your fitness goals whilst simultaneously minimizing the possibility of injury. Take a look at some of our top picks from across the internet and see which is best suited to your needs, both in terms of functionality and price. Should you need any help with selecting the right one then please make the time to read our selection guide below, and don’t be afraid to contact us with any questions you may have.
What To Look For In A Cross Trainer
There are various things to consider when you are searching for the ideal cross trainer, we’ve outlined them below to help make things easier for you.
2 Types Of Cross Trainers:
- The first thing you need to know is that there are 2 main types of cross trainers. Namely the “belt”and the “magnetic”. The belt cross trainer is designed for a more basic level of workout. Purchasing one will generally be cheaper and can often provide superb value for money.
- However, should you be looking for a more varied workout then a magnetic trainer would be more suitable. This enables various levels of resistance to be presented to you, enabling a more tailored workout regime. They are also cited as being quieter than the belt option. Do keep mind that they are likely to cost quite a bit more though, so it comes down to your own needs as to whether it’s worth shelling out that bit extra.
Resistance Levels:
- Keep an eye on the tension levels that cross trainers have, this marks the degree of resistance which the trainer is capable of providing. The top machines will go up to a resistance level of 75.
Heart Rate Monitors:
- One of the features to look out for include a heart rate monitor – this is vital for monitoring how hard your heart is working, to get good results we recommend an acute 20 minute session of exercise at 80% or over of your maximum heart rate. This will help build fitness and also results in an endorphin release afterwards which leads to positive increases in mood. Here’s a guide to help you work out your maximum heart rate if you don’t already know, and let’s be honest, many of us don’t.
Types of Programme Offered
- Always make sure to check out the different programmes offered from your trainer, the more the better as this gives you increased diversity in your choice of workouts. This means that you can have a more fully rounded training schedule to allow you make some excellent fitness gains and to keep your muscles getting a good workout. Some training programmes include cross country skiing, downhill and point to point. Take a thorough look at each model to see which are offered.
Self Generating Power:
- A handy feature that some may like, especially for the eco-friendly, is that of self generating power. Here you do not need to plug in the trainer or use any batteries as you will find that you generate the electricity as you train through your kinetic movement.
Enough Space?!
- A cross trainer can take up a fair amount of space in a room and you are going to need some added room to exercise freely, so before you go ahead and buy one make sure that you have the space to accommodate it.
Overall, a cross trainer is a superb way to keep yourself fit and help tone up. Being kind to the joints, you are less likely to receive an injury than many other forms of exercise. You can also do all this from the comfort of your home, no more need for bone chilling outdoor winter training.
A wide variety of muscles are given a thorough workout too, not only the legs, but the arms, chest and stomach too. It’s little wonder that this piece of exercise equipment has become so popular and shows no sign of diminishing.
We highly recommend a cross trainer as a top investment, just remember to keep using it regularly and do it justice, far too many people leave them languishing in the garage after a few uses and the novelty wears off – do not let that be you!