Buy a Cross Trainer or Elliptical for Home
The cross trainer is one of the most popular endurance machines for the home, and for good reason: it trains the whole body, is particularly joint-friendly and burns calories efficiently. Whether a classic cross trainer or an elliptical with a flat, natural movement, at isports you will find a wide range from brands such as Tunturi, adidas, Reebok and more, starting from around CHF 599. On top of that, you get personal advice in our showroom in Lupfig.
What is the difference between a cross trainer and an elliptical?
The two terms are often used synonymously, but they differ in the movement. A classic cross trainer usually has the flywheel at the rear and produces a slightly steeper, more oval pedalling motion. An elliptical offers a flatter, longer and therefore more natural elliptical movement that is closer to walking and running. Both are excellent for a joint-friendly full-body workout; for many people the elliptical simply feels a little smoother.
The benefits of a cross trainer
On the cross trainer you move your arms and legs at the same time, training your legs, glutes, arms, shoulders, back and core in a single session. Because your feet stay on the pedals throughout and there is no hard impact, the training is extremely joint-friendly, ideal even with excess weight or sensitive joints. Regular endurance training strengthens the heart and circulation and supports weight loss: the Swiss Heart Foundation and the official physical activity recommendations for Switzerland advise at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. Especially with joint complaints, gentle exercise is considered an important part of therapy, as the Swiss League against Rheumatism emphasises.
What to look for when buying a cross trainer
So that your cross trainer matches your goals, it is worth looking at these points:
- Flywheel mass: For regular use, a mass from 9 kg is enough; ambitious athletes look for a higher weight for a particularly smooth run.
- Drive: Front or rear drive, both provide a smooth movement when well built.
- Stride length: A longer stride length ensures a natural, comfortable feel, especially for taller people.
- Resistance and programmes: An electromagnetic system runs quietly, and many levels and programmes add variety.
- Maximum user weight: Should be clearly above your weight, for stability and safety.
- Space requirement: Plan for around 70 x 160 cm plus free space, and take the ceiling height into account for the movement.
Cross trainer or ergometer?
Not sure whether a cross trainer or an ergometer suits you better? You will find the detailed comparison of calorie burn, muscle use and joint load in our guide Cross Trainer vs. Ergometer: Which Machine Is Better? Discover the upright bikes in the Exercise Bikes & Ergometers category.
Cross trainers from Tunturi, Reebok and adidas
At isports you get cross trainers and ellipticals for every level. Tunturi offers the largest selection with its C series, from the entry-level model to the Platinum PRO for the highest demands. Reebok impresses with the popular FR30, which combines technology and design at an attractive price. And adidas stands for stylish, app-enabled cardio machines that are especially suited to a comfortable start. This way, beginners, ambitious home athletes and professionals all find the right model.
Buy a cross trainer at isports
At isports, the official Tunturi general importer for Switzerland and Liechtenstein, you buy your cross trainer directly from the specialist. In our showroom in Lupfig you can test-ride the machines and get personal advice. Also discover our other endurance machines such as treadmills and rowing machines.
Frequently asked questions about cross trainers
What is a cross trainer?
A cross trainer is an endurance machine on which you train your arms and legs at the same time in an elliptical movement. The training is joint-friendly because your feet stay on the pedals and there is no impact.
What is the difference between a cross trainer and an elliptical?
A cross trainer has a slightly steeper movement, an elliptical a flatter, longer and more natural one. In practice the terms are often used interchangeably; both offer a joint-friendly full-body workout.
Which muscles does a cross trainer train?
The cross trainer works the legs, glutes, calves, arms, shoulders, chest and back as well as the core muscles. This way you train the whole body and also improve your coordination.
Can you lose weight with a cross trainer?
Yes. Thanks to the full-body workout, the cross trainer burns a lot of calories. Combined with a balanced diet and regular training, it effectively supports weight loss.
Is a cross trainer joint-friendly?
Yes. Because the movement is fluid and there is no hard impact as when jogging, the cross trainer is considered very joint-friendly and is also suitable with sensitive joints or excess weight.
How much does a good cross trainer cost?
Solid entry-level models are available from around CHF 599. Good mid-range machines cost about CHF 900 to 1'500, and professional and studio models start from CHF 2'000 upwards.