The best way to lose weight and keep it off is by following a healthy eating program and exercising. Many dieters fail because they view exercise as hard work, but it does not have to be. For example, by using the 5:2 intermittent diet program, you will lose weight. When you include some form of movement and exercise, you will burn more calories and lose weight faster.
Cross-training is one such exercise that is far from hard work. Essentially a cross-training machine mimics the walking, jogging or running motion minus the impact on joints. By using an elliptical exercise machine you will be able to keep excess weight off without risking injury. This is especially important if you are just starting your diet and exercise program.
With so many different cross-training machines on the market, it can be hard to know where to start and what is right for you. To make it easier, we have done our own research and come up with some of the best on the market, covering a range of different models, price points, and features.
So if you were thinking about losing some extra weight, then a cross trainer may be a good solution. This way, you can train at home rain, hail or shine. No more going to the gym, or being chased by dogs for your daily walk around the streets. A small cross trainer may just be what you have been looking for.
Below is a selection of some of the best cross trainer options on the market:
GOPLUS 2 in 1 Elliptical Fan Bike Dual Cross Trainer
If you are looking for a small cross trainer because you have limited space, this recently upgraded model could be your best choice.
The unit measures 36 in long x 27 in wide x 64 in high and has an adjustable seat and resistance levels.
You can tailor your workout with just a twist of the friction knob. There is a fan and a LED display where you can monitor distance, speed, heart rate, time and calories burned.
Assembly is easy and is simple to operate – just hop on and start to peddle like you would on a bicycle.
For more information on the Goplus Cross Trainer, click here.
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine
A folding cross trainer with plenty of extras is what you will receive with this product. If you are in the market for a cheap cross trainer with the features of one that costs a lot more, you have to take a good look at the value here.
With 22 pre-programmed workouts, two user settings and goal tracking built-in software, the entire family can make use of this elliptical machine.
The dual-track, two LCD window system provides quick visual monitoring of a maximum of 13 different display feedbacks. There is also 20 levels of resistance, a high-speed perimeter weighted flywheel, and a USB charging port plus data exchange.
For more information on the Schwinn Elliptical Machine, click here.
Precor EFX 222 Elliptical Cross Trainer
Providing a smooth and natural low impact workout, this folding elliptical machine features variable stride length and an adjustable ramp.
The ergonomic handlebars make workouts a full-body exercise.
It has a maximum resistance of 550 watts and has 12 pre-programmed workouts and two user IDs so others can use the cross trainer to reach their fitness goals.
The console display has a water bottle holder which will also hold your mp3 player or reading material.
The handheld heart monitor helps you track your heart rate and the manufacturer has attached a lifetime warranty on the frame and a five-year warranty on parts.
For more information on Precor Elliptical Cross Trainer, click here.
Life Fitness Club Series Cross Trainer
Known as one of the best cross trainer brands, this product is promoted as offering a full-body workout due to the design.
It is designed to provide upper body movements synchronized with lower-body movements. The ErgoGrip handlebars are meant to give you extra stability when concentrating on lower body workouts.
There is Total Body and Lower Body pre-programmed workouts to help you tone and strengthen those areas you are trying to target.
My personal gym has a lot of Life Fitness gear, so get used (and abused) a lot. This means that they are built tough, so you can rest assured that this brand knows how to build gear that will last for a long time.
For more information on the Life Fitness Cross Trainer, click here.
How To Buy A Cross Trainer
With various features to choose from, it can be hard to tell which are the best cross trainer brands to choose from. So by looking at elliptical machine reviews such as the ones above, you can see the different options available to make the decision process easier.
The main thing to keep in mind is that you require a machine that is easy to use with controls you can operate and understand with little problem. Other things that users look for include:
- how quiet the machines are to operate
- how easy they are to assemble
- if they have features like:
- fans
- heart-rate monitors
- drink holders
- pre-programmed workout routines
- adjustable resistance
Using a cross trainer in combination with a healthy eating plan – such as the 5:2 diet – will not only make you feel better, you will also look better by losing weight, giving you the confidence and energy you desire. When you lose weight an additional bonus is that your clothes will also fit better, so it’s a win-win.
So if you are wanting to lose some extra weight, add some exercise to your healthy eating plan, and consider investing in a small cross trainer to super-charge your weight loss results.
