Last Updated On December 28th, 2021
Before the 1990s, most gym enthusiasts had a very limited range of options for their cardio workout. Either you had to hit the treadmills for hours at a time – which could be terrible for people with bad knees, or you could try the bike or rowing machine. Fortunately, in 1995, the “cross trainer” was invented, transforming the world of low-impact exercise as we knew it.
The elliptical, or cross-trainer allows you to roll your feet from toe to heel, just as if you were running or walking. The difference is that because your feet never leave the platforms, you don’t have a significant impact on your joints. Unlike other gym equipment, they also help with working your upper body, thanks to two handles that you can push while you use it. If you only have space for one piece of equipment in your home, it pays to invest in the best cross trainer.
Since 1995, the number of elliptical cross trainer machines available to choose from has sky-rocketed. With so many available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Fortunately, we’ve looked at all the cross trainer reviews we could find to compile a list of the top machines in the UK.
Here’s your guide to figuring out which is right for you.
Our Favourite Cross Trainers Compared
Top 9 Best Cross Trainer Reviews
1. JTC Tri-Fit Extendable (Editor’s Choice)
When it comes to buying fitness equipment, you need something reliable and robust. According to the latest reviews, the JTX Tri-fit offers security and stability as you move, with a variable stride length system that makes it ideal for virtually any user. You can adjust the machine so that you’re training on an incline, which engages your glutes and core to give you a complete body workout. What’s more, there’s also an advanced computer console connected and chest strap so you can monitor your performance.
Features
As options go, the JTC is one of the more advanced cross trainers. The machine is compatible with Android and Apple phones, and it’s designed to fit well into virtually any living space thanks to its super streamlined design. There’s up to 19 programs to choose from, as well as an available “custom program” feature. Additionally, if you pick the heart rate programs, you’ll automatically adjust the resistance levels for more powerful workouts.
There are plenty of ways to monitor your performance and improve the quality of your routine over time, including an LCD display for time, speed, distance, pulse sensors, calories, and RPM. What’s more, it comes with a 2-year home repair warranty.
- Advanced fitness computer and LCD display
- Connects to Bluetooth, Apple, and Android
- Adjustable variable stride length system
- 2-year warranty
- Maximum user weight of 150kg
- The console can be unpredictable
- Instructions are difficult to follow
- Putting the machine together can be tough
2. JTX Strider Magnetic (Best Magnetic)
Sometimes, when you’re searching for the best cross trainer, you need to start by deciding what kind of trainer is right for you. A magnetic trainer is a streamlined and space-saving machine that offers a fantastic full body movement, without the unnecessary impact on your joints. The JTX Stride-X7 is a great option on the market with the magnetic design, and it comes with a free heart rate chest strap.
Features
The system comes with 21 programs to choose from, including hill climb, heart rate control, fat burning and more. There’s also 16 magnetic resistance levels to choose from, along with quick start buttons so that you can launch your workout in no time. The programmable console comes with the option to save up to 4 programmes at a time, and there are non-slip adjustable pedals to make sure that you feel secure during your exercise.
The JTX Strider doesn’t just come with plenty of features to boost your workout; this cross trainer machine also comes with an exceptional five-year frame warranty and another 2-year warranty for in-home repairs.
- 5-year frame and 2-year in-home warranty
- Large screen for monitoring performance
- 16 magnetic resistance levels ideal if you want to lose weight
- Maximum user weight of 130kg
- Build quality isn’t as good as other cross trainers because it rattles and squeaks during use
- Need to tighten the bolts regularly
3. Pro XS Sports 2-in-1 (Best 2-in-1)
If you’ve been wondering which to buy for a particularly small home gym, and you want to get the most out of your purchase, then the Pro XS Sports 2-in-1 trainer could be perfect for you. The Pro XS sports trainer can be used either as an bike or a cross trainer depending on your preference.
Features
Designed to give you more variability when it comes to your cardio workouts, the XS Sports Pro is the best cross trainer for working out the legs, arms, shoulders, buttocks, and hips. There are adjustable resistance levels so you can decide exactly how challenging you want your routine to be. Additionally, with the solid steel frame, you won’t have to worry about stability or durability.
The moving stride bars provide a fantastic upper body workout, while the fixed parts in the centre of the cross trainer give you an insight into your pulse rate so you can monitor for optimum heart rate. There’s backwards pedalling available if you’re trying to work out your hamstrings (back of your thighs). The LCD screen shows distance, speed, time, pulse, and calories.
- Backward and forward pedalling
- 2-in-1 design for more diverse workouts
- Durable steel frame
- Maximum user weight of 110kg
- Adjustable levels of resistance
- Need at least 2 people for assembly
- Takes a long time to assemble
- Seat not comfortable for the bike
4. JLL CT300 Home Luxury (Best Elliptical)
Designed to provide an immersive experience, the JLL CT300 Home Luxury trainer is a great option with an exceptionally stylish and durable design. Capable of simulating walking, climbing, and running without placing undue pressure on your joints, this simple but effective cross trainer machine gives you everything you need for an excellent routine.
Features
The 9-function LCD monitor displays everything from distance covered, to time, heart rate, temperature, body fat, RPM, and even pulse recovery. There are 8 magnetic resistance levels built-in, along with a belt-driven resistance technology so you can access a more adjustable and quiet body workout experience. There’s even a space near the monitor where you can place your tablet.
This the best cross trainer that is particularly well-suited to smaller homes because it doesn’t take up a lot of space, or make a lot of noise. It’s also a great machine if you’re looking for something to give you challenging workout programmes that you can manage and adjust according to your preferences.
- Sleek and stylish design
- Great display with plenty of information
- Tablet holder option and chest strap
- Maximum user weight of 100kg
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance
- Has a complex manual tension dial
- Very complicated assembly
- Build quality isn’t as good as other cross trainers because it can begin to creek after a while
5. JLL 2-in-1 Elliptical (Best Budget)
If you’re wondering which to buy when you don’t want to break the bank, then it’s hard to go wrong with the JLL 2-in-1 cross trainer. This dual-purpose machine doubles up as a cross trainer and exercise bike to give fantastic workout programmes from top to bottom. If you want to focus on your legs for a while, simply switch to the bike function, and you’ll be building muscle in no time.
Features
There’s a fully-adjustable range of multi-level resistance options available to increase the intensity of your training. If you want to lose weight, it has a multi-function LCD to show you everything from calories burned, to speed and time. Additionally, the fixed bars feature pulse sensors to monitor your heart rate during your workout.
The JLL 2-in-1 comes with a 12-month warranty included, and plenty of features that allow you to adjust for different workout preferences, such as a custom seat height, extra-wide pedals and more. The robust front-mounted flywheel offers an extra level of stability, so you can enjoy absolute confidence as you move.
- Great space-saving design
- Double-function as a bike and cross trainer
- A fully-adjustable range of resistance levels
- Maximum user weight of 110kg
- The design is complicated to put together
- The seat is quite uncomfortable
- User reviews say that the machine squeaks a lot
6. Charles Bentley Fitness (Best Compact)
Sometimes, the cross trainer for your needs will be the one that fits seamlessly into your home. The Charles Bentley Fitness is a very sleek and streamlined exercise machine, offering a fantastic multi-function LCD that shows information like calories burned, distance covered, speed, time and more.
Features
There are eight magnetic resistance levels to choose from, as well as a 4kg flywheel to manage stability. The design is sleek, but it still gives excellent workouts with everything you need, complete with an exercise routine ideal for a person who wants to lose weight but needs minimal impact on their joints and muscles.
The Charles Bentley elliptical trainer will fit into almost any flat or house, as it’s only 54 centimetres wide, and 100 cm in length.
- Streamlined space-saving design
- Informative LCD display
- High-quality construction
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance
- Max user weight of 100kg
- Vague instructions – difficult to follow
- Difficult to adjust the resistance
- Incredibly challenging to put together
7. Reebok ZR8 (Best Design)
One of the top options for people who want incredible design and performance, the Reebok ZR8 is a fantastic piece of machinery with a solid 9kg flywheel included for exceptionally smooth motion during your workout routines. The 32 levels of electronic resistance ensure that you can tailor the intensity of your exercise routine to suit your needs.
Features
With 19 console programmes included, as well as 12 pre-set workouts so that you can plan your routine with ease, the Reebok ZR8 has it all. With the large backlit screen, you can track your performance according to crucial fitness details like speed, calories, time and distance travelled. In terms of comfort and safety, it comes with fully-adjustable footplates with slip-resistant coverings to support the perfect stride length.
Designed to handle up to 120kg of weight, this low-impact Reebok ZR8 is excellent for anyone who wants to improve their fitness levels at home, without relying on a gym membership.
- Attractive design
- 32 levels of electronic resistance
- 19 console programmes
- 2-year warranty
- No clear explanation of the programmes in the manual
- Creaks as you work out
- Takes a few hours to put together
8. Fitnessform ZGT Z10 (Best Reverse Movement)
When it comes to figuring out which cross trainer you should buy, the answer is usually the one that gives you the most comprehensive routine. Everyone exercises differently depending on the muscles that they want to work out. Fortunately, the Fitnessform ZGT Z10 ensures that you can get whatever you need out of your exercise strategy with both backward and forward motion.
Features
Carefully designed according to the highest quality standards for elliptical and cross trainers, it delivers fantastic high to low resistance settings for a variety of workouts. The reversible movement is great for improving the exercise at the back of your thighs. You can even decide whether you want to use it as a bike or an elliptical with a fully-adjustable seat for less intense workouts.
The LCD screen on this trainer shows your speed, how many calories you’ve burned, elapsed time and the distance travelled.
- Backwards and forwards pedalling
- 2-in-1 design for a custom workout
- An easy dial-based tension adjustment system
- high to low levels of resistance
- Seems a little flimsy according to some cross-trainer reviews
- Only has a knob for adjusting the tension
- Instructions can be complicated to follow
9. Confidence 2 in 1
If you’re looking to get into shape and enjoy a healthier lifestyle in the comfort of your own home, then the Confidence 2-in-1 could be the ideal option. Designed to provide people up to 110 kg with a complete low-impact workout that targets the heart, legs, hips, shoulders, and arms, this has it all. There’s a four-function on-board computer built-in so you can view speed, distance, time, and calories burned. Additionally, the adjustable resistance level means you can choose your intensity.
Features
With forward and reverse motion to choose from, you can adjust your exercise routine to target the muscles that you need to focus on most. There’s also an instruction manual included if you have any trouble putting your new device together. According to Confidence, the trainer burns up to five times more calories than walking.
Unlike many cross trainers available today, reviews suggest that this is also quite easy to put together, with simple and straightforward instructions included.
- Easy to assemble
- Four-function onboard computer
- Forward and reverse motion
- Bolts can become loose quickly
- Instructions are a little awkward
- Regular use can sometimes cause breakdowns
Which Cross Trainer Should You Buy?
Deciding which elliptical trainer is right for you can be a difficult process. Often, there’s a lot more to it than reading cross trainer reviews on Amazon and checking your budget.
If you want to get the best cross trainer, then you need to know exactly what you’re looking for. There are many popular gym-based machines used for fitness, an example of which is the stationary bike.
If you want something that offers a low-impact, high-result cardio workout that simulates standard running, then elliptical trainers may be what you are looking for. The motion of an elliptical protects your joints from harm, which is crucial for anyone with hip or knee injuries. Additionally, many people feel that elliptical trainers help to make cardio workouts more fun!
Of course, as fantastic as the right cross trainer can be, purchasing one for your home can be confusing, thanks to the wide variety of options available. Unless you’re a pro, there’s a good chance that you won’t know which one is right for you. Additionally, there are many “added extras” available to choose from.
Finding the Right Cross Trainer
Equipment like exercise bikes can generate electricity and cross trainers are no different. The first thing you need to consider when buying one is the amount of electricity it consumes. Next, look for one that is suited for your body type, and your workout needs. If you have a small build and you’re just planning on using the machine a few times a week, then a small and rather basic device is likely to be more than enough for you. However, if you plan on using it as part of a high-intensity training session, then you might need something more robust.
It’s also worth looking at the style of the elliptical that’s right for you. The most common options include:
Front Drive
These cross trainers come with a large wheel housing toward the front of the device. These options are the most affordable because of their basic design.
Rear Drive
These come with a smaller wheel housing behind the pedals. The pedals allow for an incline in some cases so that you can increase the intensity of your workout.
Centre Drive
The design of this machine is similar to a treadmill. However, there are simply pedals where the standard track would be. These elliptical trainers offer a more gentle and compact cardio workout experience.
You’ll also need to consider how much space you have to fit a cross trainer into your home. Remember that elliptical trainers aren’t small, and some of the more complex cross trainers will take up quite a bit of space. If you don’t have a lot of room to work with, then you’ll need to look for a cross trainer with a compact design that can accommodate the room you have available. Remember, you’ll need to make sure that there’s enough space on either side for you to get on and off. Additionally, there needs to be space behind the elliptical for the arms and feet to move.
The Must-Have Features of Elliptical Machines
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all guide to the ideal elliptical trainer, but most designs will come with a selection of specific features that make them more attractive to the majority of buyers. For instance, some of the features you’ll need to consider with your elliptical trainer include:
Smooth Performance
The pedals need to move smoothly and quietly so you can enjoy an intense workout. If you’re aggravated by a squeaking sound, then you’re more likely to give up on your exercise.
Stride Length
The stride length needs to be long enough to accommodate your legs. Some cross trainers only offer a 16-inch stride, which might not be enough for someone with longer legs. On the other hand, others offer adjustable stride length.
Upper Body Comfort
Most cross trainers will come with arm handles to help manage your upper-body motion. These handles improve intensity and give you more support as you work out.
Adjustable Resistance
Everyone has a specific level of resistance that works well for them when it comes to exercising. It’s important to work out according to your needs, so make sure that you get a cross trainer with adjustable programs to suit your strategy.
Adjustable Incline
While incline isn’t essential for everyone, it’s important for people who want to be able to access high-intensity workouts on their elliptical machines.
Buying the Ultimate Cross Trainer Machine
As mentioned above, the cross trainer that’s right for you will depend on the kind of workout you want to create for yourself. If you’re looking for a low-intensity exercise that simply keeps you active through the week, you can go for a much simpler machine. On the other hand, if you want something that’s going to kick your exercise up a notch, then you might want a more complex device.
Among all our cross trainer reviews, we particularly like the JTC Tri-Fit for its advanced intense workout option. It offers everything you could need to create a truly customised routine, including adjustable incline, stride length, and intensity. You can even connect the LCD display to your smartphone to play music or get a graphical display of your performance.
What do you think about our guide to the best cross trainer? Is there a trainer that you love that we haven’t mentioned? Let us know in the comments below, and enjoy your workout!
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