From personal trainer to home fitness guru, Christian discovered the ultimate workout hack: the cross trainer. Minimising risk while maximising results, he founded CrossTrainerHome.co.uk to elevate your at-home fitness game.
Should I Choose Magnetic Cross Trainers Or Flywheel Cross Trainers? – Our Ultimate Guide
When finding the perfect cross trainer, you will have to narrow down the types of trainer you want, as different cross-trainers will use different kinds of resistance depending on the model you buy.
Cross trainers can come using magnetic resistance which often gives higher levels of resistance and is easier to adjust while flywheel models are much more affordable on the market.
To help you decide which type of cross trainer is right for you we have compared both a magnetic cross trainer and flywheel trainers below.
What Is Flywheel In Cross Trainer?
The flywheel inside of a cross trainer is the drive mechanism for the machine, this wheel starts to move when the users start to turn the pedals with their feet. It also controls the resistance levels of your machine in order for you to progress.
What Size Flywheel For Cross Trainer?
You might have noticed that cross trainers differ in flywheel size too. They tend to be between 4-10kg and the heavier your flywheel is, the more durable your machine will be, hence why cross-trainers with a heavier flywheel are often more expensive.
What Is Magnetic Cross Trainer?
Magnetic cross trainers are in the higher elliptical trainer price range and operate with magnets on their flywheel the closer these magnets are to the flywheel then the higher the resistance is. You can typically adjust the magnetic resistance levels easily on your model with buttons to increase or decrease.
Magnetic Vs Flywheel Cross Trainers – Which Is Better?
Both magnetic and flywheel cross trainers have a similar design and operate the same with the goal of producing varying types of resistance so as you can get your sweat on.
We will compare both the advantages and disadvantages of these cross trainers below to see which model might be best for you.
Magnetic Cross Trainers
First off, let’s discuss magnetic cross trainers. These magnetic resistance mechanisms on cross trainers tend to be slightly more accurate than flywheel systems hence why their manufacturing costs are higher than their computerised systems.
These cross trainers allow you to get stronger resistance levels too and have little typical repair costs compared to flywheel models. Due to the magnetic resistance machines system, it also reduces the amount of noise your model has.
Disadvantages of mechanically-adjusted magnetic resistance cross trainers are that this system is always more expensive and is often found mostly in professional gyms.
Advantages
More accurate than flywheel systems.
Higher resistance levels.
Less noise.
Disadvantages
More expensive.
Flywheel Cross Trainers
Flywheel cross trainers are much more affordable than magnetic cross trainers and are still as easy to adjust as magnetic trainers. These cross trainers still have good levels of resistance and are fairly accurate.
The negatives of these cross trainers are that their control on-resistance is much nosier, they also tend to have higher repair costs.
Advantages
Affordable.
Good resistance levels.
Accurate.
Disadvantages
Noisy.
Needs more repairs.
Conclusion – Which Type Of Cross Trainer Should I Choose?
Overall, mechanically-adjusted magnetic resistance cross trainers do have a few more advantages over flywheel cross trainers such as accuracy and better resistance, but flywheel cross trainers still provide good features and a decent workout for those of us on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Magnetic & Flywheel Cross Trainers
What is a front-driven cross trainer?
A front-drive cross trainer operates with a flywheel at the front of the machine and has a flatter movement. You can compare the front drive and rear drive cross trainer here to understand better what the front drive is capable of.
Which features should I look for in my cross-trainer?
Some important features to consider in your trainer are; resistance levels, max user weight, the flywheel, display, programmes and resistance control.
What does the stride length mean on an elliptical?
Stride length on your trainer refers to the distance between the front of your foot and the front of your rear foot on your machine. Make sure your stride length is long enough or adjustable on your cross trainer otherwise they can feel awkward to workout with.
How does air resistance elliptical trainers work?
Air resistance elliptical trainers work with a fan inside to create resistance, they are one of the oldest forms of cross trainers out there and the air resistance mechanism is not very durable for long term use, it can be quite noisy too.
Last Words
Overall, no matter which type of cross trainer you decide, both types will give you an excellent workout. If you are after durability and high-quality resistance, then magnetic cross trainers would be the ideal choice. However flywheel trainers are perfect for at-home gyms too, just make sure your flywheel is of the right size.
Electric Cross Trainers Vs Manual Cross Trainers – Our Guide
Cross trainers are one of the most popular cardio exercise machines in the world next to treadmills, whether you want to lose weight, tone your body or simply want a full-body workout, exercising on a cross-trainer can help you reach fitness goals.
When looking for a cross trainer you will likely come across both manual and electric models, the first using air resistance and the latter an electromagnetic system to generate resistance, both providing a great workout but also a different feel.
Figuring out which cross trainer is better can be a hassle, so we have compared both types of cross trainers below with their pros and cons to help you make a decision.
What Is an Air Resistance Cross Trainer?
First off, before we can get into comparing both a manual and electric cross trainer, we should understand how air resistance works on a cross-trainer.
Manual cross trainers work by turning a fan equal to how you pedal, the more you are pedalling the more resistance that is generated. These types of cross trainers typically have a manual meter too which tracks the workout by counting how many reps and pedals you are doing.
You will often find manual cross-trainers less in gyms and more for at-home use with its self-adjusting resistance.
An electric cross trainer on the other hand uses an electromagnetic which is near the flywheel to generate electronic resistance.
The magnetic levels of resistance on elliptical trainers can be adjusted via electronic buttons on your trainer, the more you apply the stronger the resistant trainer and current applied to the flywheel.
Some cross trainers will have an adjustable resistance level from a turning knob too. They often come with a large LCD and adjustable pre-set programmes to do various forms of cardio with.
Manual Vs Electric Cross Trainers – Which Is Better?
Now we have briefly gone over how manual and electric cross trainers work we can move on to comparing them to help you decide which type of elliptical you want for an enjoyable workout session.
Manual Cross Trainers
Manual cross trainers have advantages over electric cross-trainers when it comes to the fact that they are more affordable and easier to use, without too many complicated programmes of set-up systems.
These trainers additionally are a little safer than magnetic models as they respond to your pedalling directly, they also are perfect for a quick workout such as HIIT you can play around with intensities when pedalling.
Manual air resistance cross-trainers fall short in comparison to electric cross-trainers when it comes to a tougher workout experience. The magnetic system on electric models created a harder level of resistance that air resistance can’t match.
They further have fewer programmes and can often be very noisy during an extreme workout due to the fan.
Pros
More affordable.
Great for HIIT intensity of Workout.
Safe.
Easy to use.
Cons
Less programmes.
Noisy.
Lower levels of resistance.
Electric Cross Trainers
Electric cross trainers have some important advantages over a manual type of exercise machine which are worth noting. These pieces of exercise kit always come with more engaging features such a pre-set working programmes and are easy to adjust.
The technical cross trainers are available in more powerful forms and give a more challenging workout than a regular cross trainer because of the electric resistance.
Downfalls of electric cross trainers in comparison to manual ones are that they are more expensive cross-trainers.
Pros
Stronger resistance level.
Better cardiovascular workout routines.
Engaging features.
Cons
High cross trainer cost.
Do cross trainers need power? Check this article to understand different types of cross trainers before you buy one.
Conclusion – Which Type Of Cross Trainer Should I Choose?
Overall, the models of the cross trainer are both great for working out with and can give an excellent aerobic workout to improve your health.
If you can afford it, electrical cross trainers are a better piece of exercise equipment due to their stronger power and programmes which gives a more customisable exercise experience.
However, if you are on a budget then a manual cross trainer is also a great piece of exercise kit for at-home workouts and is an alternative for people who do not want to payout for a monthly gym membership.
Benefits Of Working Out With a Cross Trainer
If you are still on the edge about whether or not to invest in an electrical cross trainer or manual cross trainer then it might be worth knowing the advantages you can get by using one of these exercise machines.
We have listed the main benefits of working out with your new cross trainer below.
Great for stress – Increased physical activity with your average cross trainer can boost your mood as exercise releases endorphins in your brain when you work out.
Low-impact workout – If you have problems with your knees or lower body joints then cross trainers are perfect as your feet do not have to do the pounding option of running as your feet never end up leaving the pedals, it can also help you strengthen your bones.
Good for the heart – Cardio on your advanced cross trainer has many benefits for your heart, it reduces the chance of cardiovascular diseases and helps you control blood pressure.
Can help with weight loss – Cross trainers are great exercise machines if you want to lose weight with an exercise routine, you can burn a lot of calories fast. For example, a 150-pound person can burn around 232 calories on a trainer when working out for 30 minutes. This does depend on factors such as your weight and resistance level, however.
They are safe – These exercise equipment types are very safe in comparison to other forms of exercise equipment as the mechanical cross-trainers move according to how fast you pedal. This means when you stop on your electrical cross-trainers model, the machine will stop too.
Varied resistance – Working out with electrical cross trainers allow you to experiment with resistance and track improvement.
Gives a full-body workout – Cross trainers don’t just work out your lower body but are also great because of their handlebars, the forward and backwards motion can help tone your arms as well as your lower body.
Shapes your glutes – By pedalling backwards on your electronic cross trainer you can train your glutes and legs.
Top Features To Consider In Your Manual/Electric Cross Trainer
Whether you choose a manual or an electronic cross trainer, both are built very similarly and you must make sure that your types of exercise equipment have the features you need for beneficial exercise.
We have listed the cross trainer key features to look for in your new model below.
Resistance levels – Always look for a good range of resistant levels on your cross trainer, whether you set via your manual resistance dial or display, they should be enough for you to progress with.
Motion handles – The motion handles of your cross trainer should be comfortable and easy to work with, they should also have safety handles, these will not move and have sensors on them to help you monitor your pulse rate.
Stride length – This is important on your cross trainer as it refers to the amount of motion you get from each stride on your machine. Try and look for a model with adjustable resistance so as you can get a tougher workout if you want.
Display – Your cross trainer should have a high-quality informative display that shows important metrics such as your distance and speed. Manual cross trainers will not have a display like electronic trainers.
Inclines – Manual cross trainers will not have an incline setting but expensive cross trainers will, this allows you to work out your muscles in a different way.
Design – Your cross trainers design should be able to fit in the space you have, some models are foldable which can save you even more space.
Tips For Working Out With Your Cross Trainer
If it’s your first time working out with your cross trainer, you might not be sure how to use your trainer properly for the most effective workout.
We have listed out our best cross trainer tips for working out with your cross trainer below.
Use the inbuilt programmes – If you decide to buy an electronic cross trainer then it will have a variety of inbuilt programmes to work out with. These programmes can be excellent for cardio ideas and help with boredom when working out, after all, they are there for a reason.
Make use of the resistance and inclines – Gradually vary and up your resistance/incline as you start to work out with your trainer. This will help to improve your strength and work your glutes over time.
Try HIIT – Working out in high-intensity cycles on your manual or electric cross trainer is a great way to get a good workout in a short amount of time and can help your burn fat fast.
Be in the right posture – Make sure your body is tilted slightly forward when using your cross trainer to avoid back strain.
Work backwards – Pedalling backwards on your cross trainer is an excellent way to fire up your glutes and can help vary your workouts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manual & Electric Cross Trainers
What is a front-drive cross trainer?
Front-drive cross trainers have their flywheel and drive system located at the front of their machine, they are regarded as more of a stepper machine and do not use a running motion, making them perfect if you after more of an inclined workout.
How much does an electronic cross trainer cost?
Depending on the model, they can cost anything from £300-£1000, this goes from home brands to professional gym equipment standards.
Are there benefits of resistance training?
Yes, resistance training is great for cardio and can help tone all the muscles in your body over some time when you keep upping the resistance. This is known as a form of progressive overload and can help you grow muscles too, especially in your lower body on a cross-trainer.
How much does a manual cross trainer cost?
A manual cross trainer is much more affordable than an electric cross trainer and will cost you around £100-£200.
What are some manual cross trainer cons?
Manual cross trainers do not have as much resistance or programmes to play with, they are best for basic cardio only.
How much space do you need for a cross-trainer?
Most cross trainers will take up around 1.2-2m in your home depending on the model you get, you should ensure the area has space on either side and that your ceiling is high enough when standing on the machine.
Can a cross trainer help with cardiovascular strength?
Yes, cross trainers are an excellent form of cardio, you can use them for HIIT or standard low impact LISS to get your cardio in and build strength. They are great for building up your cardiovascular health too by reducing diseases and strengthening your heart.
Are cross trainer workouts better than treadmill workouts?
Cross trainers and treadmills all have their pros and cons, a treadmill is better for burning more calories with and practising running while a cross trainer is a perfect choice for people who have bad joints as they are designed to be low impact.
Both cross trainers and treadmills burn a similar range of calories and provide cardio which can aid weight loss or grow cardiovascular health.
Final Words
To conclude, manual and electronic cross trainers are both perfect for low-impact cardio exercise, but if you have a higher budget, an electric cross trainer will be more beneficial to your fitness thanks to their wider range of features and harder resistance levels.
Remember when picking your manual/electric cross trainer to always check the resistance levels that it comes with as well as the stride length so you can be sure the cross trainer is right for you.
Should I Get a Front-Drive Cross Trainer Or a Rear Drive Cross Trainer – Which Is Better?
When looking for the best cross trainer on the market, you will likely be faced with two popular choices, front-wheel-drive machines or rear-wheel drive ellipticals.
Both types of cross trainers can give you a challenging workout but do have some major differences to consider in terms of stride motion and adjustability. For example, front-drive elliptical machines are often more affordable and compact, while rear-drive models have a more natural feel and are great elliptical machines for runners.
So to find out which type of elliptical trainers is right for you, we have compared both models below and discussed their key differences to see which exercise machines are worth the investment for your home gym.
How Does a Front Drive Cross Trainer Work?
Front-drive cross trainers are very common on the market, this flywheel mechanism is located at the front of the machine and has a stair climber feel resistance to the machine.
They are often made with light flywheels which make them affordable, the elliptical motion is made by leaning forward.
How Does a Rear Drive Machine Work?
A rear-drive design on a cross-trainer works with the flywheel located at the back of the machine to give a more natural feel to the type of workout, its smoother motion is more like real-life running or walking and it often forces you to stand on the machine in a straighter position.
If your goal is to burn calories faster, this article on cross trainers and treadmills will surely give you peace of mind.
Front Drive Vs Rear Drive Models – Which Elliptical Is Better?
Now we know how each machine works and where the resistance happens, let’s compare the key features and differences between each model to see which cross-trainer is right for you.
Front Drive Cross Trainers
First up, let’s start with front-drive cross-trainers. These types of stair steppers like machines are great for people who are looking to work out with incline options, they are also more affordable than rear-drive ellipticals and more compact for storage too which makes them perfect for a home gym if you are looking to save on space.
Disadvantages of front-drive cross-trainers have to be the fact that these types of cross trainers need more maintenance due to the location of the flywheel, meaning there might be more ongoing costs despite their cheap upfront costs.
These models are also noisier than rear-drive ellipticals so this is something to be considered if you are planning to have your front-drive model in the house!
Pros
Affordable.
Portable.
Great for incline.
Cons
Needs more repairs.
Noisy.
Less natural feel.
Rear Drive Cross Trainers
On the other hand, rear-drive ellipticals are also great thanks to the fact they give you a flatter workout experience due to the location of the flywheel. This offers a natural feeling like running and walking and sometimes can offer longer stride lengths for a more intense workout.
Rear-drive models are also excellent thanks to the fact they are quieter to function and have fewer moving parts which mean there is less of a chance for parts to break on the machine.
However, despite rear drive cross trainers having a lot of pros, there are some cons to be aware of. These models do not come cheap, meaning you will need a higher budget for your home gym, they also take up more storage space.
Rear-drive cross trainers have fewer incline options too.
Pros
Natural feeling.
Quiet.
Less maintenance.
Cons
Expensive.
Take up more storage.
Fewer incline options.
Conclusion – Which Cross Trainer Should I Choose?
Overall, there is not too much difference in performance between the two cross-trainers, each machine will give you a good workout. If you prefer incline options and are on a budget, go for a front-drive cross trainer, however, if you after a natural feeling and want a better stride length range, then a rear-drive model might be the better choice.
Are Center Driver Ellipticals Worth It?
Center drive ellipticals are newer on the market and have their flywheel located in the centre of the machine, this gives the model a natural feel and a more comfortable position for the user which isn’t as forward as a front-drive cross trainer but also not as upright as a rear-drive model.
These models are additionally very quiet, easy on the joints and great for beginners.
If you are interested in a centre drive cross trainer you will need to have a high budget as these machines do not come cheap due to their new technology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rear Drive VS Front Driver Cross Trainers
How much do front-drive trainers cost compared to rear driver trainers?
Front-drive cross-trainers typically cost between £100 and £500 while rear-drive cross trainers are between the £500-£1000 mark as they are often made with more expensive technology.
Which type of trainer mimics real-life running the most?
The type of cross trainer which has the most natural feel and stride is the rear-drive cross trainer thanks to the location of the flywheel.
How much does a centre driver trainer cost?
A centre drive trainer is made with newer technology and will typically cost between £400-£1000 depending on the functions and power it comes with.
How do I maintain my front-drive trainer?
To maintain your cross trainer well you will need to continue to perform basic maintenance regularly, this care includes; wiping the machine down, replacing any worn down parts, tightening fasteners and lubricating parts of the machine.
Final Words
Overall, front-drive and rear-drive cross trainers are both great options to invest in if you are looking for a machine to get your cardio in, we would always recommend going for a rear-drive trainer if you want a natural feel to working out which is similar to running, however, if you are on a budget then a front-drive cross trainer is also a great option which has a good range of incline options.
If you are wondering what’s the best to use at home for your workout sessions, this ultimate guide of home exercise bike and cross trainer will surely answer your questions.
Home Exercise Bikes Vs Cross Trainers – Our Ultimate Guide!
If you are looking to invest in some home exercise equipment but your not sure where to start, you might be stuck between a home exercise bike or a cross-trainer.
Home exercise bikes and cross trainers both have lots of similarities for a fuller body workout, exercise bikes tend to be suited for people who would like to improve their cardiovascular health while cross trainers are excellent for improving upper body health.
Down below in our guide, we will discuss the benefits of investing in a fitness machine, how exercise bikes and cross trainers compare and some important tips for using these types of exercise equipment.
What Are The Benefits Of Investing In Home Exercise Equipment?
Home types of exercise equipment do not come cheap, with a basic exercise bike costing you up to £500 and above, however, there is a wide range of benefits to investing in an exercise machine which makes it well worth the hefty price tag.
We’ve listed some benefits of buying home gym equipment below.
Eliminates the weather problem – One great advantage to having an exercise bike or cross-trainer at home is that you can work out anytime you like, even if it’s pouring down outside, allowing you to stay on track with your routine.
Cheaper than a gym membership – Although exercise machines can be a high-cost investment, they do work out to be cheaper than gym memberships in the long run.
Gives you more control – With exercise machines, you can adjust options like resistance and incline to make your routine personalised, this is hard to do when cycling outside for example.
Convenient – Having a type of exercise machine at home of any kind is convenient, you don’t have to go out of your way to get to the gym since the machine is right there, saving you time and being convenient.
Home Exercise Bikes Vs Cross Trainers – Which One Should I Use?
If you are stuck between an exercise bike and a cross trainer, you might be wondering which machine would be more beneficial to you.
To help you out, we’ve discussed both the notable differences and similarities of these machines down below as well as their key features so you can know exactly what you are getting.
Exercise Bikes
Exercise bikes are an excellent choice for people who want to do cardio as regular exercise and like the feeling of cycling. This cardio exercise machine can have all the key benefits such as weight loss and improving heart health.
They differ to cross trainers only in their position, due to their seated design, meaning this type of exercise machine will give you more of a lower-body workout than an upper body workout like a cross-trainer would.
Advantages
Great for low impact exercise to avoid pressure on joints.
Cheap price.
Easy to operate.
Great for cardio.
Disadvantages
Doesn’t work the upper body as a cross-trainer.
Burns fewer calories.
Cross Trainers
Cross trainers are also a great choice of fitness equipment for a good cardio workout, but the benefits to these machines are that they work your entire body due to the arm handles which you swing in motion, so are the better choice over an exercise bike if you are looking to work your entire body.
Due to the way cross trainers are set up, they are also ideal for getting rid of pressure on leg joints making them a low impact exercise machine like exercise bikes.
Advantages
Works the entire body, not just the lower body.
Burns more calories.
Great for building body muscle.
Disadvantages
Expensive.
Which Indoor Exercise Equipment Should I Buy?
Both an exercise bike and cross trainer are ideal if you’re looking for forms of exercise which will improve cardiovascular health.
If your looking for and broader workout to use your whole body then we would suggest opting for a cross trainer, but for people who want a lower body workout, exercise bikes will work best.
Is It Safe To Use A Cross Trainer Upstairs?
If you’ve decided on a cross-trainer for your exercise indoors machine you might be wondering if it’s possible to use the machine upstairs.
It is perfectly safe to put a cross trainer or exercise bike upstairs, most houses will be able to support the weight of these machines without any issues, the only thing we would suggest is if you are concerned about the noise then place a rubber mat underneath the machine to help soundproof it.
Can I Use An Exercise Bike To Lose Weight?
An exercise bike can be used to lose weight, just like a cross trainer, any form of physical activity which gets your heart rate up can be used to burn calories. This combined with a healthy diet in a calorie cut will be able to speed up your weight loss.
We would recommend using an exercise bike for between 30 minutes to an hour each day if you want to lose weight, you can increase the duration and intensity as your fitness level improves.
Can I Get A Two In One Cross Trainer & Exercise Bike?
If you are still stuck between a cross trainer and an exercise bike, you might have come across 2in1 models which allow you to do both exercise routines.
Two in one cross-trainer and exercise bikes are a perfect choice if you want a complete body workout but like cycling sometimes. They are also great for people who don’t want to put too much pressure on joints.
The only considerable difference between buying these 2 in 1 model and buying the machines separately is that they might cost slightly more, but then you get two machines in one!
Tips For Using An Exercise Bike
If you’ve decided to invest in exercise bikes and you are a beginner, you might be wondering how to use this machine and if there are any tips to doing so.
We’ve listed some essential tips for using an exercise bike as a beginner down below.
Choose the right type of bike – When buying an exercise bike you will be faced with the choice of either; upright bikes, spin bikes which offer more resistance and recumbent bikes which give you more of a reclined position, excellent for beginners.
Avoid pain – When used incorrectly, exercise bikes can cause you some pain, sitting too high can cause knee and back pain, and improper foot position can give pain. Gear setting too high can also give you knee pain so start slow.
Set the bike upright – To use your exercise bike properly you need to make sure you set it up right, the saddle should be able to support your body weight properly, the seat height should also match your height and the handlebars should have proper reach.
Adjust your position – Keep a straight spine when riding a bike and sit on the widest part of your saddle. Avoid leaning on the handlebars and keep your feet flat.
Tips For Using A Cross Trainer
Cross trainers can look slightly intimidating if you’re not used to using these machines, if you are a beginner we’ve put together some tips for using this workout machine below.
Drop your arms – Dropping your arms while working out on a cross-trainer can enable you to have a better core workout, this is because your abdominal muscles are forced to keep you balanced while working out.
Try intervals – Interval training has lots of health benefits and is a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories, try simply pedaling faster during set periods
Try pedaling backwards – Pedaling backwards on a cross trainer is a great way to give your thighs a good workout since the muscles are engaged during the backwards motion.
Have an upper body workout – Make use of the handlebars on your cross trainer and try having an upper body workout, swinging the handles back and forth can give you a great full body workout.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exercise Bikes & Cross Trainers
Are cross trainers more expensive than exercise bikes?
Cross trainers and exercise bikes are a similar price, both costing anything between £300-£1000 depending on the model that you choose and its features.
Does an exercise bike burn more calories than a cross trainer?
An exercise bike and cross trainer burn a similar amount of calories, which is on average between 150-300 calories in 30 minutes depending on the resistance that you are using.
Is 30 minutes on an exercise bike enough time?
If you are planning to lose weight with an exercise bike, thirty minutes is a great place to start around 5 times a week, as you become fitter you can then increase the duration, consistency is key.
Is a manual exercise bike good for weight loss?
Manual exercise bikes can be a cheaper alternative to electric exercise bikes and can still be beneficial for weight loss, you will be missing out on features such as timers and displays, but they can help you with your cardio.
Are cross trainers beneficial for burning belly fat?
Cross trainers provide a full-body workout and are excellent for burning belly fat in combination with a healthy diet.
Last Words
Overall, both cross trainers and exercise bikes are a great investment for your health no matter the type of machine you use, allowing you to burn calories, get your heart rate up and work out in all types of weather.
If you are stuck between choosing an exercise bike or cross trainer then we would suggest choosing a cross trainer if you are looking for a full body workout and an exercise bike for a lower body workout, both will help with weight loss goals, however.
Can I Run 5K On a Cross Trainer? How Long Does It Take?
Aiming to run 5K, whether as an elliptical workout or as a running type of workout is a great milestone for a beginner body workout who is looking to build up their fitness.
There is no reason as to why you can’t aim to exercise a 5K distance on a cross-trainer, how long this will take you depends on your fitness level, but on average with a moderate effort, it will likely take around 20-30 minutes to complete a 5K on your cross-trainer.
We have composed a small guide below that will tell you how long it takes to complete other similar distances on your cross trainer as well as some tips for running on an elliptical machine for the best workout possible.
How Long Does It Take To Run 10K On a Cross Trainer?
For someone who is looking to put in a harder effort and run a 10K on their cross trainer this will on average take around entire 30-60 minutes, typically an hour for beginners. The time you finish your 10K in will also depend on if you have any resistance set on your trainer to increase intensity.
To train for a 10K it will take around eight or ten weeks if you have already started with an intermediate level of fitness.
How Long Does It Take To Run 1K On a Cross Trainer?
To run 1km on your cross trainer this should take around 5-6 minutes on average, for a beginner it might take longer than this and for people who are already fit it could take a shorter amount of time around 3-5 minutes.
How Many Calories Will 5K Burn On a Cross Trainer?
How many calories you burn on your cross trainer will vary from person to person whether they put a slow effort in, used resistance and their body type. On average, it is likely someone will burn around 250-300 calories on their cross trainer in 30 minutes.
For 10K you can simply double the calories burned for 5k which would be anywhere between 500-600 calories depending on factors.
However, this depends on these factors below –
Bodyweight.
Age/gender.
Resistance.
Speed.
How they use the machine.
Fitness level.
Body composition.
Is Running The Same As Cross-Training?
If you are a runner who is looking to complete 5K on a cross-trainer then you might be wondering how much these two types of exercise differ from one another.
Both types of exercises are great for increasing today’s effort in terms of cardiovascular strength and can be used for shorter interval workouts such as HIIT, but do differ when it comes to difficulty.
For example, cross trainers are said to be a lower impact than running as your joints are not hitting the ground, making them great for runners with knee injuries, they are also said to be easier as you do not have to push your body weight forward, the cross trainer helps you.
Cross trainers can help build and strengthen certain muscles for running too such as your hamstrings and quads.
So overall, although cross-training might feel a little easier than running, it is still great for runners and can help build up endurance, especially if you have had an injury or you are a beginner who is getting back into fitness/running, 10-20 minutes easy effort per day can make a huge difference on a cross-trainer.
Tips For Running a 5K On a Cross Trainer
For people who are looking to maintain running race times or fitness on an elliptical, there are a couple of important tips you should be following to get the most out of your workouts.
We will mention the most important ones below.
Put In Effort With Resistance Ranging
So as you can have a realistic run on your cross trainer you want to ensure that you are varying the resistance on the machine, this might mean increasing the resistance to mimic hills or maintaining a moderate resistance throughout your cross-trainer workout so as you can feel like you are running outside on different terrain.
You want to ensure you are not putting too much resistance or too little resistance.
Aim For 90 RPM
To mimic running on your cross-trainer you want to try and run as close as you can to 90 steps per foot per minute (at the very top end), this might be a little difficult at first while you find the right rhythm but will help you with real-world running technique and strength.
Check The Handles
As a runner you might accidentally lean your weight onto the handles of your cross trainer, this is not recommended and will affect your calorific burn as well as your posture while exercising, instead lightly hold them and wing them for a total body workout.
Think Time & Effort
It is unlikely that you will be able to get the same pace and speed as you can running out on the road on a cross-trainer, so it is best to focus on time and effort instead, practising interval workouts for people who want to run 5K and 10K races.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running 5K On a Cross Trainer
What burns more calories for 5K a treadmill or cross trainer?
Typically a cross-trainer and treadmill burn a very similar amount of calories for a 30-minute workout, both should approximately burn between 240-350 calories depending on factors such as your body weight and effort.
Can I 5K as a beginner on a cross-trainer?
Yes, 5K is a great goal to aim for as a beginner and should not take too long to train for in combination with strength training and healthy eating for endurance. Doing 10K on your cross trainer is more for advanced fitness types but can be a great goal to aim for once a 5K has been completed.
Final Words
Overall, it should take the average user around 25-30 minutes to complete a whole 5K on their cross trainer, factors such as your fitness level will affect this time however and varying resistance can also make the run more intense.
If you are trying to replace running outside with running on a treadmill then you should aim for 90 RPM to mimic real-life running and pace. Always vary resistance to get the most out of your cross-training and engage all muscles through the handlebars of the machine too.
When kitting out your home gym, you might be on a budget for choosing certain exercise machines, cross trainers and even treadmill’s don’t come cheap and neither does the electricity cost.
You might be wondering if you can operate an electric cross trainer without power in this case, and while manual cheap cross trainers do exist on the market and can be used without power, elliptical trainers that have a motor and belt will always need electricity to function.
To find out more about whether or not you should buy a cross-trainer without power, how much power one uses and other important features to consider in your cross trainer we have composed a small guide below with everything you need to know.
Can I Use a Cross Trainer Without Power?
The average cross trainer on the market works your entire body through a range of resistance in the machine, the electronic cross-resistance happens through the motor and belt on the electronic cross trainer making stride lengths more difficult as you up the resistance in stages.
Often, technical cross-trainers that are powered with electricity will always need the power to function, you can’t use the electronic resistance without the power.
However, if you do want to cut electricity costs you can use a manual cross trainer instead of an electric one which will give you the same cardio benefits. These types of manual machines might have less resistance levels and be slightly less supportive but are very affordable cross trainers to buy upfront and run in a home gym.
We have listed the advantages and disadvantages of a manual cross trainer and an electric cross trainer below to help with your decision.
Manual Cross Trainers
Pros
Saves money to run.
More affordable upfront.
Gives a more challenging workout.
Cons
Not many resistance levels.
Depends on the natural stride.
Electric Cross Trainers
Pros
More cross trainer brands options on the market.
Offers better levels of resistance.
Adjustable stride and motor propelled support.
Cons
Most expensive cross-trainers.
Use a lot of electricity.
Do Cross Trainers Use A Lot Of Power?
If you have decided that an electric cross trainer with magnetic resistance is right for you then you might be wondering just how much power these individual products use if you install one in your home gym.
Well, the power an electronic cross trainer uses all comes down to the types of resistance you are using on it and the motor power, cross trainer brands will differ in power usage, however.
A cross trainer cost for electricity is still very similar to treadmills and other motorised exercise machines on the market, so we would not say that one machine over the other saves more money.
Although we can’t give you a specific amount of electricity your cross-trainers use per hour, it could on average range between 300 and 900 watts per hour.
The amount of power your cross trainer uses does not just depend on levels of resistance but it depends on other factors too, we have listed them out below.
Motorised treadmill power – If you have expensive cross trainers which are higher in power then these will use more electricity to run.
Cross trainer owners weight – No matter the models of cross trainer, the heavier the user is in weight then the more electricity it will use.
Speed of cross-trainer – Power consumption is variable according to stages resistance but it is also influenced by the speed you are operating the machine at, higher speeds mean more power used.
The time you use it for – The power used by your cross trainer will change according to the length of sessions it is used for.
Other Considerations For Buying a Cross Trainer
Not only do you need to consider how much power your cross-trainers brands use, but you additionally should be considering a variety of other essential features in your model so as you can be certain you are buying the best key cross trainer for your home gym.
Stride length – No matter what type of cross trainer you buy, one of the essential cross trainer key features to consider is stride length. Longer strides on high-end cross trainers mean a harder workout, but some of the best machines have an adjustable stride.
Resistance levels – The more resistance level on cross trainer models then the more customised workout you can have according to your level of fitness. Pricier cross-trainers will often have a better range of resistance levels.
Design – Ensure that your trainer has comfortable motion handles, an information display and can take your max user weight. Consider if you have enough storage space for your top-rated cross-trainer too.
Type of trainer – Apart from manual and electric trainers, there are also a few other cross trainer types to consider on the market. For example, there is a front-drive cross-trainer type that has its flywheel at the front of the machine and a rear-drive cross-trainer type that has more adjustability and its flywheel on the back of the exercise machine. There is also a 2-in1 cross-trainer type that can be turned into an exercise bike.
Programmes – Different cross trainer brands will come with a variety of programmes to work out with, some expensive cross trainers will have a better range of workout programmes while cheaper models will have a more basic variety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cross Trainers Power
How much do good cross trainer brands models typically cost?
This depends on the type of cross trainer you choose and its features, but in general, they can cost between £300-£6000 for a more professional gym type trainer.
Is a rear-drive cross trainer better than a front-drive cross trainer?
Rear-drive cross trainers are generally more preferred than front-drive cross trainers as they have a more natural resistance feel and better-extended stride options on the machine. These mid-range cross trainers are more expensive, however.
Do manual cross trainers have adjustable resistance?
Some manual cross trainers will have a manual resistance dial to change the intensity of your workout depending on your fitness level. This resistance will have a more limited range however in comparison to an electric trainer.
How can I save electricity cost with my cross trainer power?
There is not much you can do to save electricity on your cross trainer, but we have a few suggestions which can help save you some money, for example, turn your machine off at all times when you are not using it and don’t run the machine at high speeds unless necessary.
Also maintain your trainer well so as it can not perform under any unnecessary strain.
Final Words
To conclude, manual cross trainers do not need the power to function, but electric models with a motor and belt will need to be plugged into an electricity source to function. How much electricity your cross trainer uses all comes down to trainer considerations such as the speed you are operating the machine at and even user weight.
We would recommend choosing a manual cross trainer if you are looking to save money and don’t mind the extra workout, but if you are looking for a great range of resistance levels and motorised support in your machine, an electric cross trainer might be the more suitable pick.
Cross Trainers VS Spin Bikes – Which Machine Is Better?
Exercise bike machines and elliptical trainers are both a popular option if you are looking for a cardiovascular workout at the gym or home.
No matter which type of fitness machine you choose each kind will give you a good workout, but the option you choose comes down to preference. For example, a cross-trainer might be argued to be better for people who want to tone their upper body more, while a basic exercise bike is great for the lower body.
To help you decide which type of exercise machine is right for you, we have compared a spin bike and a cross-trainer below with their pros and cons so as you can see which type of exercise might be more beneficial to you.
What Is The Difference Between a Spin Bike & Other Exercise Bikes?
Before we can get on to comparing spin bikes and cross trainers, it’s important to understand that a spin bike machine is not your typical stationary bike.
A spin bike is classed as an exercise bike but does differ in a few ways when compared to recumbent exercise bikes or your standard stationary bike. For example, a spin bike requires more vigorous effort than other stationary bike options as they tend to have a heavier flywheel for exercise.
Spin bikes are also said to mimic a more natural feel outside and can help your burn more calories than your standard stationary bike.
Cross Trainer Or Spin Bike For Weight Loss?
Now we know the difference between spin bikes and other exercise bike brands on the market, let’s compare a cross-trainer vs exercise bike for weight loss purposes and see which machine burns fat faster.
Both types of machines will help you burn calories during a session, however, a cross trainer is often argued to be more effective than a stationary bike due to the fact it works your arms as well as your legs, but this all typically comes down to the level of effort that you put in during your workout.
Cross Trainer VS Spin Bike – Which Is The Winner?
To see whether or not a stationary bike or a cross trainer is right for you and your home gym, we have compared the two types below with their pros and cons to see which type of machine might be a better option for you.
Cross Trainers
Cross trainers come with great variable resistance levels and can work up to 80% of your muscles during a workout, these trainers not only work your lower body like a stationary bike but also your upper due to the ski poles you move back and forth with your arms.
We also like this dedicated fitness machine for muscle toning as it allows you to pedal backwards if you want to engage even more hamstring and glute muscles, giving total-body effort. Standing upon this machine requires a moderate effort to keep you balanced too, engaging your core.
Disadvantages of cross-trainers in comparison to exercise bike brands have to be that they often are more expensive on the market, so aren’t within everyone’s budget for a home gym. These models are often not great for people who struggle with their lower body impact too, and might not be as suitable for cyclists who are looking for a real-life type workout.
Pros
Engages all muscles including the upper body.
Standing position helps core strength.
Different to standard cycling.
Cons
Expensive.
Not great for people with lower-body injuries.
Does not mimic real-life cycling.
Spin Bikes
Spin bikes on the other hand also come with resistance settings so as you can vary the intensity of your workout and is perfect for people who are looking to replicate outdoor cycling in an indoor environment. For those who struggle with bad back and posture, a spin bike is great too as you are in a sitting position.
These types of upright bikes are great for people who want a heavy resistance lower body workout thanks to the machine being solely focused on the drive from your legs.
Some downfalls of these bikes are that there can be a risk of saddle friction during long periods of use due to the user being in a sitting position the whole time. They also don’t work your arms like a cross-trainer does and aren’t as beginner-friendly.
Pros
Replicates outdoor cycling.
Great for posture.
Lower body workout.
Cons
Risk of saddle discomfort.
Don’t work arm muscles.
Can be difficult for beginners.
Final Words
Overall, to conclude, we would recommend opting for a cross trainer if you are a beginner and want to try something different to outdoor cycling which will give you a total body workout thanks to the handles of the trainer too.
If you want to take cycling indoors however and you are after a lower-body focused workout then an exercise bike might be a better option, these machines are more affordable too, so are great for budget home gyms.
You can always opt for a hybrid exercise bike or a two in one cross trainer if you want to get an exercise bike and trainer all in one device!
Can A Cross Trainer Help Me Get Slim Thighs – Our Guide!
If you are deciding whether or not to invest in a cross trainer for your fitness goals or maybe you are looking to use a cross trainer with some different workouts, you might be wondering if elliptical workouts could help to slim your thighs?
Cross trainers/elliptical trainers can be used to slim thighs, but only as a side effect of weight loss, thighs might appear slimmer too due to how leg muscles are used during resistance on these machines as they become toned.
We’ve put together a short guide below which will discuss how a cross trainer can help you get slimmer thighs if it could make your thighs get bigger if it can tone your lower body and some tips for the best results.
Can A Cross Trainer Help Me Get Slimmer Thighs?
As we mentioned above, cross trainers don’t directly slim thighs, but your thighs can appear slimmer as a side effect of weight loss if you’ve managed to lose some weight while working out with a cross trainer.
It’s very hard to spot reduce fat, as humans we tend to lose weight all over our bodies and don’t have control over where the weight will drop off. You can control muscle building, however, and using resistance on a cross trainer can help your legs to appear slimmer.
Will A Cross Trainer Make Thighs Bigger?
There is a common misconception that cross trainers might make your body muscles in your legs bigger. This is not however true unless you are eating enough protein in order to have muscle growth.
You might indeed get modest muscle gains in your lower body from working out with resistance but they would not make your thighs bulkier, only more toned.
Will A Cross Trainer Tone My Bum & Legs?
If you want to tone your bum and legs with a cross-trainer then these are one of the best exercise machines for the job.
By using interval training with resistance adjustment you can put your glutes and muscles such as hamstrings in your legs to work, helping you to build muscle as they are engaged.
Tips For Using A Cross Trainer To Slim Thighs
If you have a range of fitness goals with your cross trainer and one of them is to slim your thighs and tone your legs/glutes, we’ve got some excellent tips to implement when working out on one of these machines down below.
Use the right posture – How you use your machine can determine the results that you see, make sure you have the right posture when using your cross trainer by keeping your back straight and eyes ahead, and use your heels when striding to help activate your glutes and legs.
Stay consistent – It’s important to have the right amount of exercise per week to reach your fitness goals, for building muscle this might be 2 days per week for 30 minutes or for slimming down 60 minutes each day for five days a week.
Try intervals – Interval training is a great way to burn fat and calories in a short amount of time, helping you slim down when combined with a healthy diet.
Pedal backwards – Pedaling backwards on an elliptical is a fast way to get those thighs and glutes burning, try doing intervals set on a tough resistance for the ultimate burn.
Use the resistance – Resistance is your best friend on a cross trainer for toning muscle in your lower body, try raising it to make your muscles work harder.
Let go of the handles – Letting go of the handles on your cross trainer forces your body to engage your core and engages your lower body muscles in your legs, this can help them become toned over time.
Last Words
Overall, cross trainers can help to slim your thighs by toning them through resistance or via weight loss, however, it is hard to spot reduce fat from your thighs, so this would be an overall result of weight loss.
High-intensity interval training combined with consistency and resistance can help you to see improvements in your muscle growth and weight loss when using a cross trainer, pedaling backwards also helps to engage major muscles in your legs and glutes.
Whether you are into tracking your fitness journey or you are looking to calculate calorie burn from exercise, having elliptical machines with a calorie counter is important for both.
The best types of machines cross trainer wise can track your increase in heart rate to see energy expenditure, tell you your speed and distance, as well as personal calories burnt however, this calorie counting system is not accurate and is said to either under or overestimate your calories by 25%-30%.
We have put together an informative guide below, that will tell you just how inaccurate your cardio machines might be, personal calorie factors that affect overall burn and alternatives you can use to track your progress.
Are Cross Trainer Calories & Distance Inaccurate?
Cross trainers calories and distance measurement systems should always be taken with a grain of salt, distance can be argued to be a little more accurate as it is measured by the sensor in the flywheel of your cross trainer, this counts how many revolutions it has turned to show you the total amount of distance that your have travelled.
Calories burned however are based on the average of people and their body type, they don’t take into account a whole variety of factors with vary from user to user when it comes to energy expenditure.
It is said that on a cross-trainer it can overestimate your calories by 42% due to imprecise calorie counters.
How Many Calories Can Someone Burn On a Cross Trainer?
So you might be wondering just how many calories someone can burn on a cross-trainer, well, on average, cross trainers measure through a kilogram calorie system like other gym machine types, so a 150-pound user who workouts on a cross-trainer will burn 232 calories on a cross-trainer with medium resistance and pace.
This figure might change if the user workouts at a more vigorous pace or weighs more as they have a role in calorie burn.
Personal Factors Affecting Calorie Burn
As we mentioned above, the typical exercise machine will have a standard calorie readout that doesn’t take into account lots of variable factors such as users weight.
We have listed out the most important personal factors that can affect how much someone burns on exercise machines such as a cross trainer below to help you out.
Weight – On all kinds of exercise machines, how much bodyweight you have will always affect the actual calories your burn, so if you weigh more, you will burn more calories than someone who weighs less doing the same exercise.
Body type – Other body individual factors that affect calorie burn are body composition, some people have a better muscle ratio to body fat and others have a higher metabolic rate, all these factors can affect additional calories burned during cross trainer exercise.
Usage – One of the biggest machines factor for calorie burn is how you use the machine, people who hang on to the handles will burn fewer calories than those who put more effort in, if you don’t know how to use the machine properly this also counts.
Gender & age – Unfortunately, men have a higher metabolic rate than women and have lower body fat to muscle ratio, meaning that they burn many more calories, older people are also likely to have more body fat than muscle tissue so this can slow metabolic rate down.
Intensity – This one is obvious but the harder you go the more you burn, going the same distance on a high resistance setting than going the distance on a low resistance will result in different measurements of heart rate and hundreds of calories burned!
Alternative Ways To Track Calories Burned
Now we know that calorie counters on cross trainers are not very accurate, it’s a good idea to look into some alternative ways to measure your progress that have higher levels of accuracy, we will note the best alternatives below.
Take 20% off – One of the easiest ways to get a more accurate reading of how many calories you have burned on your cross trainer is to just take 20% off the figure. For example, if your burned 300 calories on the cross trainer, take this number down to 240.
Use a fitness watch – Fitness watches are very reliable and have heart rate monitors inside as well as other technology to track how many calories you have burned during exercise.
Track your heart rate – One of the best ways to see how hard you are working during exercise is to track your perceived rate of exertion and have a target heart rate goal to hit so as you can be sure you are working hard enough during exercise.
Use an online calculator – There are plenty of online calculators on the web where you can enter in more detail about your body type and composition as well as your type of exercise to get a calorie burn, this still might not be as accurate as a fitness watch is but it does take into account body factors such as weight, age and gender which can affect calorie burn.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cross Trainers Calorie Counters
How can I burn more calories on a cross-trainer?
You can burn more calories on a cross-trainer by increasing the speed or intensity of your workout, you can spend more time on the cross-trainer too, this will increase the duration of your exercise and burn more.
Cheaper machines will often have a more inaccurate calorie counter as they are built with cheaper technology, you should also be careful about maintaining the belt of your machine and leaning on to the handlebars of the device.
Are more expensive cross trainers more accurate?
Yes, more expensive machines will often be fitted with better technology for calorie counting and heart rate monitors on the handlebars, these can increase accuracy.
Does someone who weigh more burn more calories?
Someone who weighs more will burn more calories than someone who weighs less performing the same type of exercise. The same goes for someone who has more muscle mass.
Will fitness level affect calorie burn?
Yes, if you have a higher fitness level then you will burn fewer calories than someone who is a beginner as you are used to exercising, it might take more intensity or longer duration for you to burn similar calories as a beginner would.
Final Words
To conclude, calorie counters on a cross-trainer are not very accurate, this is down to the fact they ignore lots of variables such as the body type and weight of the user, as well as how they are using the machine and even their gender.
We would recommend using an alternative calorie counter such as a fitness watch to track your progress if you want to monitor your fitness or lose weight by tracking calories, knowing your target heart rate is always a good idea too so as you can know how hard you should be working.
