When buying fitness equipment it can tricky to wade through the technical jargon, the claims of the products and the benefits highlighted by the manufacturers. And then there is the price; with such varying degrees of price how do you know you are going to get the best product for your budget?
We have an expert team with years of experience in the fitness industry and like to think of ourselves as the “Cross Trainer Experts” so we have created this buyers guide to help you make the right decision when buying this fantastic piece of equipment.
Understanding the Cross Trainer
Cross trainers are also commonly referred to as “elliptical cross trainers”, “home ellipticals” or even just “ellipticals”. The elliptical part of the name refers to the pattern the footplates make when striding forwards and backwards. The motion is not circular (like an exercise bike), nor is it a straight line backwards and forwards (like skiing). Instead it is a combination of the two, which is elliptical in shape.
Cross trainers are low impact. This means they do not place stress or strain on your joints. The motion is very fluid, rather than jarring and your feet do not lift up from the footplates. There is therefore very low risk of injury when using a cross trainer.
Cross trainers deliver a cardio workout. This means that they can help you to lose both weight and inches (when used in conjunction with a calorie controlled diet).
Considerations before you buy
Before you buy a cross trainer you should seek to try one at a gym, or at the very least ask your friends for recommendations so you know it is right for you.
How often will you use it? Will you be a light, infrequent user or will you use it daily, with the aim of boosting your fitness? If you plan to be an infrequent user then you probably won’t want to spend too much money. However, if you are serious about getting in shape and aim to be dedicated then buy the best machine for your budget.
Are you a serious athlete? If the answer is “yes” then seek out a cross trainer capable of giving you a challenging workout. Look for an onboard computer which allows you to change the resistance settings with ease and offers you a variety of pre-programmed routines. A basic model with no resistance will not challenge the serious athlete so you will need to spend a little more. The Fuel Fitness Cross Trainer range includes some fantastic, professional quality models that are ideal for the advanced user.
Price is of course important and there are hundreds of retailers out there offering a variety of prices. Shop online; you are likely to get a better deal. Check the price guarantee. Orbus Leisure will price match any product in their range if you find it cheaper elsewhere.
Warranty – a cross trainer is an investment, so what happens when things go wrong? Buy wisely and seek out a product which is supplied with an extended warranty. You need to make sure you are protected if the product breaks or fails in any way.
