Best Cross-Trainer Machines | Full-Body Workouts | 2022 Buyer’s Guide
What is the best cross-trainer machine? First, look at the machine's performance. The stepping motion should be smooth and comfortable, which depends on the weight of the trainer's wheels. That said, you should not opt for trainers with excessively heavy wheels weighing more than 12 pounds. The thing is that using such a machine, it will be less comfortable for you to pedal. The range of stepping motion is another essential factor to consider. A large diameter of the flywheel provides a greater range. Besides, you should look at the resistance and adjustability. The level of resistance can be adjusted mechanically and with the use of the console. The letter allows the machine to automatically switch between different resistance levels during exercise. We believe that the Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical meets these criteria best.
What Is a Cross-Trainer?
Cross-trainers, aka x or X trainers, are pretty similar to an elliptical or stair master since they allow you to walk and even run without putting too much strain on your legs.
They are usually about the size of most other stationary machines, have a round back, two foot-pedals that are connected to armbars, and some of the newer models have LED screens to record your workout progress or let you watch (stream) workout feeds, depending on the model.
What Is the Hype About Cross-Trainers?
One of the biggest reasons they are becoming pretty popular is because they can be fairly affordable compared to other workout machines, and they can be pretty versatile as well.
The biggest love for them is the fact that you can get such a good, nearly full-body workout, in just one machine that can be smaller than most other stationary workout machines out there.
What Are the Advantages of Cross-Trainers over other Types of Trainers?
Cross-trainers have bars that you hold onto which move along with your legs, giving you a chance to work out your upper body and have a safer workout, too.
Treadmills, bikes, and other stationary machines are usually focused only on the lower body, and can often be less safe to use by people who are injured or are recovering from an injury, especially those from the waist down.
What Benefits Do Cross-Trainers Offer and Who Should Use Them?
Because of the safety benefits, cross-trainers can be one of the most age-friendly workout machines out there, and they can be excellent for casual exercisers or pros who need a recovery machine for when they overdo it.
They can be great if you are trying to strengthen (or lose fat around) your ankles, calves, knees, hips, arms, and more.
What Is the Difference Between Models From Various Brands?
There are some brands that are specializing in making models that are a bit different from the traditional ones, and these usually include seated models or models that use an up-down stepping motion rather than a circular-running motion (the traditional motion).
Some brands can also be a bit more basic while others can be customizable from the angles of the seats and bars to the workout routine.
A Review of the Best Cross-Trainer Machine
Below, you will find a review of the three most popular cross-trainer machines at a price ranging from $750 to $1,800. The first one is an affordable model that is adjustable and can be used for whole-body workouts. The second one is designed for vertical workouts and is equipped with a screen display, pulse-sensing handlebars, built-in speakers, and a tablet holder. The third option combines the traditional foot and handlebars with an adjustable seat for sitting-down workouts.
1. Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical | Best for Total Body Workout
If you have trouble working out while walking or standing, then you may want to consider this cross-trainer since it is one of the few that has a specially designed seat that you can easily adjust to accommodate your workout needs.
The handlebars can also be adjusted so that you can focus on one area only or multiple at once including your arms, legs, chest/back, and biceps/triceps.
Teeter: Check the current price
2. ProForm Cardio HIIT Elliptical Trainer | Best for Burning Calories
This is one of the few cross-trainers that is smaller because it focuses on a vertical workout rather than a horizontal one. It also has handlebars that are connected to the unit rather than the feet.
If you prefer having all of the bells and whistles, then you may want this model for the screen display, pulse-sensing handlebars, tablet holder, and built-in speakers
ProForm Cardio HIIT: Check the current price
3. ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro | Best Bluetooth Campatible
You might like this model if you want a blend between an older design and a newer one since it has the traditional foot and handlebars but also comes with an adjustable seat for sitting-down workouts. This model comes with a screen, a built-in tablet holder, and built-in Bluetooth speakers, too.
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro: Check the current price
12 Best-Selling Cross-Trainer Machines Comparative Table
Customers' Choice
XS Sports Luna Pro 2-in1 Elliptical Cross Trainer Exercise Bike-Fitness Cardio Weightloss Workout Machine-With...
- XS Sports Pro Fitness Elliptical Cross Trainer with Pulse Sensors - 2 in 1 - Can Be Used As A Cross Trainer or Exercise Bike
- Front Mounted Flywheel for Added Stability - Adjustable Resistance for High & Low Intensity Workouts - Multi Function LCD Display: Pulse, Time, Speed, Distance, Calorie & Scan Mode
- Can Be Used to Workout Legs, Hips, Buttocks, Arms & Shoulders - Simulates Natural Walking Movements - Dual Direction Forward & Backward Elliptical Workout - Front Mounted Flywheel for Added Stability
- Steel Frame - Extra Wide Platform Pedals - Large Comfortable Seat - Front Wheels - Easy to Move Around the House - Max User Weight: 110kg - Max Foot Size: 12 (UK Size) - Size of Machine Foot Print Approx 91cm x 51cm - Some Assembly Required - Includes Full English Instruction Manual
- Moving Stride Bars for Upper Body Workouts - Fixed Bars with Pulse Sensors to Monitor Heart Rate During Workout - Total Body Low-Impact Cardiovascular Workout in the Comfort of Your Own Home
Best Value
Most Popular
Reebok ZR8 Cross Trainer
- The ZR8’s 9 kg flywheel weight ensures a challenging, smooth and quiet elliptical motion to give you a comfortable, fluid workout experience - ideal for those seeking a low impact form of exercise
- You can tailor the intensity of your workout, while you exercise, by selecting the desired resistance level via the console; there are 32 levels of electronic resistance for you to choose from
- To help keep you motivated, there are 20 fitness programs built into the console; designed by our Reebok master trainers to take you from a gentle exercise to a challenging mountainous hill climb
- The large backlit LCD screen provides the feedback you need to help improve your fitness level by tracking and displaying your progress; including speed, distance, time, calories, pulse, watts and RPM
- The cushioned footplates can be easily adjusted to suit your stride length while the dual-action and fixed handlebars have a soft, sweat-resistant surface so you can focus on your fitness
- Light enough to move around your home using the integrated transport wheels and solid enough to take a maximum user weight of 120 kg (approximately 18 stone) thanks to the ZR8’s premium build quality
- Comes with 2-year parts and labour warranty as standard; easy to follow assembly instructions and a dedicated Reebok UK helpline and online chat, should you need any assistance
Best Budget
JLL® CT300 Home Luxury Elliptical Cross Trainer, 2020 Magnetic Cardio Workout with 8-level Magnetic Resistance,...
- 8 Function LCD Display Monitor: Displays Speed, Distance, Time, Temperature, Heart-Rate, Calories, Body Fat & Pulse Recovery.
- Quiet Operation - 8 levels of magnetic resistance combined with belt driven technology provides the quietest and smoothest operation possible.
- Transportable with front built in wheels; Maximum user weight: 100kg
- 5.5kg flywheel provides a challenging yet smooth workout; operates in a two-way style so you can pedal forwards and backwards; dual action handlebars mean you can hold the stationary central handlebars or use the moving side swing bars; comfortable foam grips provide a comfortable workout.
- Monitor can be used as a tablet holder (tablet not included); non-slip footplates provide maximum security while exercising; strong steel frame ensures grade A build quality.
Most Discussed & Reviewed
Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Cross Trainer Air Walk Trainer Glider w/ LCD Monitor
- AIR WALK TRAINER: Its smooth and quiet ride is perfect to use in front of the TV.
- TOTAL BODY WORKOUT: The air walker exercise machine targets muscles in your arms as well as your legs.
- SPACE SAVING: Fold the product and pedals up to 1/2 the length (Folded dimensions: 38L x 48W x 156H cm)
- AEROBIC TRAINING: Aerobic exercise also known as cardio, increases cardio respiratory fitness, which is one of the five essential components of physical fitness.
- LCD MONITOR: Informative LCD monitor displays time, count, total distance and calories. Step up your comfort with the adjustable abdominal pad.
Best Trusted
Limepeaks - LMP-1001 (Black) Compact 2-In-1 Dual Action Indoor Elliptical Cross Trainer and Cycling Machine with...
- Great way to workout at home, improving cardiovascular fitness, general conditioning and toning lower body muscles while tracking all of your activity. So whether you’re trying to lose weight, tone up or simply stay in shape, this Elliptical Trainer is ideal
- Simply roll away for easy storage, save your floor space at home or at the office and most of all, save on gym time by working out in the comfort of your own home. Transports wheels also allow you to move this machine with struggling.
- Functionalities include an onboard LCD monitor that records Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, and Pulse. There are pulse sensors built into the handles, so you can get a good reading of how hard you are working.
- LMP-1001 offers shock absorption technology that helps reduce impact on your joints when exercising. Equipped with a (13lbs Inner Magnetic Flywheel). And a Durable Drive System which is fitted with a Strong belt transmission, which helps control the speed during high intensity workouts.
- With Customised Seat comfort and Adjustments, move back and forth, up or down at your own leisure; Max Weight Loaded - 120kg/265lbs; Product Weight - 35kg: Product Dimensions - 100cm x 72cm x149cm (L x W x H)
Best Cheap
GU YONG TAO Mute Magnetic Elliptical Machine, Stable And Durable Exercise Cross Trainer Machine, Standard Run...
- ★VARIOUS MAGNETORESISTANCE AND SOLID STRUCTURE: Adjustments provide users with more challenging workouts from beginner to advanced intensity. The tubular steel structure and wide base provide stable stability and long-lasting durability. A large pedal with a ridge prevents slipping. You can enjoy the convenience of exercising without leaving your comfortable home.
- ★ADVANCED DIGITAL MONITOR: Start planning and recording your health statistics using an advanced LCD digital monitor that indicates distance, calories burned, time, speed, scan and heart rate monitoring in the target area.
- ★SMOOTH AND QUIET DRIVE AND FULL BODY WORKOUT: The precision balanced flywheel and belt drive provide smooth and quiet operation. Ideal for users who want all the benefits of running, but the knees are safer and contain more upper body exercises for full body workouts.
- ★EASY TO MOVE: The wheels on the front of the unit allow the user to easily move from one room to another or store it out of sight. Provides a shock-free, smooth workout for your upper and lower body
- ★100% SERVICE: If you are confused about the quality of the product or have any other questions, you can email us and we will be happy to solve the problem for you. If you are not satisfied or dissatisfied with the product, you can contact us and we will give you a satisfactory answer.
Other Popular cross trainer machines
Reebok ZR8 Cross Trainer
- The ZR8’s 9 kg flywheel weight ensures a challenging, smooth and quiet elliptical motion to give you a comfortable, fluid workout experience - ideal for those seeking a low impact form of exercise
- You can tailor the intensity of your workout, while you exercise, by selecting the desired resistance level via the console; there are 32 levels of electronic resistance for you to choose from
- To help keep you motivated, there are 20 fitness programs built into the console; designed by our Reebok master trainers to take you from a gentle exercise to a challenging mountainous hill climb
- The large backlit LCD screen provides the feedback you need to help improve your fitness level by tracking and displaying your progress; including speed, distance, time, calories, pulse, watts and RPM
- The cushioned footplates can be easily adjusted to suit your stride length while the dual-action and fixed handlebars have a soft, sweat-resistant surface so you can focus on your fitness
- Light enough to move around your home using the integrated transport wheels and solid enough to take a maximum user weight of 120 kg (approximately 18 stone) thanks to the ZR8’s premium build quality
- Comes with 2-year parts and labour warranty as standard; easy to follow assembly instructions and a dedicated Reebok UK helpline and online chat, should you need any assistance
JLL® CT300 Home Luxury Elliptical Cross Trainer, 2020 Magnetic Cardio Workout with 8-level Magnetic Resistance,...
- 8 Function LCD Display Monitor: Displays Speed, Distance, Time, Temperature, Heart-Rate, Calories, Body Fat & Pulse Recovery.
- Quiet Operation - 8 levels of magnetic resistance combined with belt driven technology provides the quietest and smoothest operation possible.
- Transportable with front built in wheels; Maximum user weight: 100kg
- 5.5kg flywheel provides a challenging yet smooth workout; operates in a two-way style so you can pedal forwards and backwards; dual action handlebars mean you can hold the stationary central handlebars or use the moving side swing bars; comfortable foam grips provide a comfortable workout.
- Monitor can be used as a tablet holder (tablet not included); non-slip footplates provide maximum security while exercising; strong steel frame ensures grade A build quality.
What Is the Difference Between a Hybrid, Cross, Cardio, Trio, And Elliptical Trainers?
The biggest difference between all of these trainers is the designs and areas of workout. Cross trainers are one of the few that can work out arms, legs, and more, while elliptical and cardio trainers can only focus on one area, usually the lower.
Hybrid and trio trainers can be an in-between, but they can also be just as if not more expensive than cross-trainers; costing just as much without getting as much of a workout.