How to Choose the Best Cross Trainer for Your Home Gym
We desire to achieve a healthy body, a body that is more than skin deep, oozing with energy, a strong immune system, and a positive mood. To achieve this, we have to incorporate exercise and healthy eating habits into our everyday activities. Some of us even put up a gym in our homes for a safer, more comfortable exercise routine. One of those equipment that must be included in our gym is the cross trainer.
Cross trainers are low-impact exercise machines that are stationary yet simulate walking, running, or stair climbing. No excessive pressure on the joints that is why it has become a favorite choice for people with joint issues. They enhance cardiovascular health and develop strong muscles aside from their weight loss benefits. They can help improve your overall appearance and well-being.
Now, how do you choose the best cross trainer for your home?
Understand Your Fitness Goals. Each cross trainer targets a particular health concern. A model with various resistance levels and pre-set workout programs is good for weight loss and cardio while a machine with incline adjustment targets muscle toning. On the other hand, for rehabilitation or low-impact exercise, select a cross trainer with smooth motion and good joint support.
Consider Your Space. Since cross trainers come in various sizes, you can choose the right one that is most comfortable for your space. There are actually foldable models ideal for smaller areas.
Type of Cross Trainers. The main types of these machine exercises are front-drive, rear-drive, and center-drive. A flywheel located in front offers a more affordable but slightly noisier experience while a flywheel at the back provides smoother motion and a more natural stride. At the same time, a cross trainer with a flywheel at the center is more compact and stable which is ideal for small spaces.
Test the Stride Length. What is suitable for most users is the standard stride of 18-20 inches. However, taller individuals may need a longer one and shorter users can go for a smaller range.
Evaluate Resistance and Incline Options. As your fitness improves, you can adjust the resistance levels while challenging muscle workouts can be achieved with the machine’s incline options.
Look for Smart Features. Interactive screens that display metrics and virtual training sessions will surely enhance your workout experience. Aside from that, syncing with apps to track progress or join virtual workout classes and the availability of heart rate monitors add functionality to the machine exercise.
Check Build Quality. How do you check the machine’s structure? It must have a sturdy frame, smooth motion, and a stable base. Cross trainers with heavier flywheels offer smoother and more consistent resistance.
Budget-Friendly. You can purchase one that is within your budget and yet can deliver quality and functionality.
Evaluate Reviews and Test the Machine. Yes, nothing beats the hands-on experience with the cross trainer where you can personally test for comfort, ease of use, and noise level. You can also read reviews for further information.
Warranty and Maintenance. Indeed, a good warranty reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. So, check for warranty offered for parts and labor, customer support, and maintenance services.
Choose the most appropriate cross trainer for your needs …an investment for your fitness journey now and in the years to come.