If recent times have made you rethink your fitness plans and you are keen on purchasing fitness equipment for your home in India, you have come to the right place. One such fitness equipment is the elliptic cross trainer, about which the article hopes to give you a perspective. Elliptical trainers are among the most popular ways to exercise a wide variety of muscles in your body, not to mention the heart and lungs. If you are still unsure about purchasing an elliptical cross trainer for home or have made up your mind to buy one, we’ve got you covered.
We hope to give you an idea about the various kinds of elliptical trainers available in the market. Not to mention the benefits associated with using an elliptical trainer, and the cross trainer price. In general, an overall perspective on the factors you have to look at before you decide to purchase the best elliptical trainer.
Best Elliptical Trainers – Quick Comparison
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Types Of Cross Trainers
The number and kinds of cross-trainers in the market are numerous. It is always a good idea to have an insight into the various types of cross trainers available in the market before making an informed decision. Let us look at the different kinds of elliptic cross-trainers available in the market.
Electromagnetic Cross Trainer
To exercise your muscles to the fullest, the machine needs to offer an adequate amount of resistance. This resistance can generally be adjusted depending upon the extent to which you want to exert your muscles. The Electromagnetic Cross Trainer does this by allowing you to adjust the magnetic field it produces by pushing a button. The machine then applies this resistance to the flywheel. The flywheel is the system that runs the cross-trainer and controls the resistance offered by the machine.
Belt Drive Elliptical Trainer
The Belt Drive Elliptic trainer is also used to achieve resistance, similar to the Electromagnetic Cross Trainer. But, the risk of wearing out is much higher, and the ability to slow down or the braking power is weaker than the Electromagnetic Cross Trainer. As a result, they are a cheaper alternative.
Inline Cross Trainer
As the name suggests, the Inline Cross Trainer is particularly useful in exercising muscles by adjusting the incline level. By changing the incline degree, the machine allows you to get a feeling of walking uphill or on a flat surface, increasing the incline results in stretching the muscles partaking in the activity. In particular, the muscles involved are the core muscles and upper thigh.
Variable Stride Length Cross Trainer
To cater to each individual’s stride length, some machines allow you to adjust the stride length. Usually, taller people have a longer stride, and shorter people have a shorter stride. This difference often arises as a consequence of the height of an individual. The Variable Stride Length Cross Trainer does this by allowing you to adjust the stride length so that you have a comfortable experience in exercising your muscles.
Ergometer Cross Trainer
Similar to the Electromagnetic Cross Trainer, the Ergometer Cross-Trainer offers the feature to adjust the resistance exerted by the machine. The Ergometer Cross Trainer is particularly useful for athletes who want a more precise measure of the resistance offered by the machine. The Ergometer Cross Trainer provides this metric in the form of watts. However, it usually results in a higher cost. If you do not require exact measurements, it makes more sense to purchase a cheaper alternative.
Rear Driven Cross Trainer
In the Rear Driven Cross Trainer, the flywheel, which is the system that drives the cross trainer, is present at the rear end of the machine. It creates movements that are slightly more elliptical.
Front Driven Cross Trainer
The Front Driven Cross Trainer has the flywheel at the front of the machine. As a consequence of its placement, the movements are slightly more flat in nature than the Rear Driven Cross Trainer, which offers more elliptical movements. Generally, the flywheel’s presence at the front or rear end of the machine shouldn’t affect your purchase decision too much. Front Driven and Rear Driven are both equally good choices.
Fan Elliptical Trainer
The Fan Elliptical Trainer uses a fan instead of the flywheel, used by the other elliptical trainers. It uses the natural air resistance, which is weaker than the mechanical resistance system offered by the flywheel. It also provides a restricted range of resistance. As a result, if you are not on a shoestring budget, you should pick one of the other variants which use a flywheel.
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Top Elliptical Cross Trainer Brands In India
Now that we have taken a look at the various kinds of cross-trainers let us take a look at the various Elliptical Cross Trainer Brands in India.
Reach
Reach is a famous manufacturer known for producing a wide range of home fitness equipment. Orbitrek is the Elliptical Cross Trainer brand offering by Reach. From Elliptical Cross Trainers to treadmills, dumbbells, and leg massagers they produce it all.
Cockatoo
Cockatoo is another famous brand under the wing of Anand Group, producing sports equipment for the last 38 years. From cardio equipment, including elliptical cross trainers to strength training equipment, including benches and racks, they boast an excellent collection.
Welcare
A household name in the fitness industry, Welcare, with over seventy exclusive brand stores across India, has been producing great fitness products since 1996. Their exquisite repertoire is not limited to elliptic cross-trainers. Their home fitness offerings also include treadmills, bikes, and strength equipment.
Afton
Afton is another famous brand to consider when you’re debating to purchase an elliptical cross-trainer. Their brilliant line-up includes every possible home equipment. From elliptical cross trainers, gym flooring offerings, BMI machines, and outdoor gyms to Frog Fitness, Indoor Games, and Fast Pong, they offer it all.
Kettler
A German company with stores all over the world, including India, Kettler is one brand you must consider. From garden furniture and outdoor lighting and heating to fitness equipment, they cover various product offerings. More specifically, their fitness equipment boasts of impressive treadmills, indoor training bikes, and of course, elliptical cross-trainers.
Sole
Sole is a famous brand trusted by a variety of hotels in India to cater to their fitness equipment needs. Their product offerings include treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, and various other fitness accessories.
Xterra
Xterra is more popularly known for its cross-triathlon races. They have expanded to include a variety of products and sell all over the world. From fitness apparel to home fitness equipment including elliptical cross trainers and beyond they manufacture it all.
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Top 10 Elliptical Trainers – Review
Welcare Elliptical Cross Trainer
The WC6055 is another product offering by the famous fitness equipment manufacturer, Welcare. It comes in at a price point of under seventy-five thousand and is slightly more expensive than its budget variant counterpart. Drawing similarities from its budget-friendly variant, the WC6044, it also comes with an adjustable seat making it one of the best elliptical cross-trainers. It supports a stride length of eighteen inches, making it easy for you to tailor your workout intensity based on your requirements.
The 8kg flywheels increase the momentum of your speed, thereby making it less stressful for your knees. As a result, it is one of the best cross trainers for knee problems. Other notable features include the large LCD window monitor, which tracks the speed, time and distance, and a sensor to calculate heart rate and the number of calories burnt. All of these features contribute towards making the WC6055 one of the best elliptical cross-trainers.
Xterra FS3.5 Elliptical Cross Trainer
The Xterra FS3.5 Elliptical Cross Trainer is another great product. It comes in at a price point of under fifty-three thousand, making it more on the expensive side. The belt drive mechanism used by this elliptical trainer ensures that the workout experience is immersive. The maintenance overhead for this product is also quite inexpensive. Compared to the previous products, it provides slightly more control over the resistance by offering up to twenty-four different levels of resistance so that you can get the best workout experience.
It also supports a seventeen-inch stride length ensures a comfortable elliptical motion making it on the best cross trainers for big guys. It also comes with hand pulse grips to record your heart rate and an MP3 compatible speaker to play music while you work out. All of these great features make it one of the most premium cross trainers on the market.
Reach Elliptical Trainer
The Elliptical Trainer offering by Reach is another excellent product, albeit slightly more on the expensive side. It comes in at a price point of roughly under fifty-two thousand, making it quite expensive. However, the extra cost brings with it a multitude of excellent features. It supports individuals as heavy as 110kg, making it one of the best cross trainers for heavyweight persons.
It includes thirteen pre-set programs that are very extensive in aiding in weight loss, making it one of the best elliptical trainers for belly fat. These programs also provide detailed information about Body Fat percentage, BMI, BMR. The programs also automatically control the heat resistance according to the heart rate. The stationary handles allow for an immersive lower body workout, making it the best elliptical trainers for lower back problems. The adjustable stride length of up to twenty-one inches, anti-slip pedals, anti-shake resistance, and presence of a tablet holder makes it one of the best elliptical cross trainers in the premium segment.
Afton FX-50 Elliptical Trainer
The FX-50 Elliptical Trainer is a great product offering by the famous fitness equipment manufacturer, Afton. Coming in at a price point of under twenty-eight thousand, it targets the mid-tier market segment. This electromagnetic elliptical cross trainer supports eight different resistance levels to tune it to suit your workout needs. It has a maximum weight capacity of 120kg, making it one of the best elliptical trainers for heavy persons. The built-in LCD Monitor and fourteen-inch stride length are other notable features. The simple and ergonomic design of the product, along with the other stated features, makes the Afton FX-50 one of the best cross trainers in the market.
Aerofit Elliptical Cross Trainer
Aerofit Elliptical Cross Trainer is one of the best cross trainers for beginners. It comes in at a price point of under twenty eight thousand. This electromagnetic elliptical trainer has eight levels of manually adjustable magnetic resistance to get the best workout possible. Some notable features of the product include the digital display monitor, non-slip foot pads to ensure that you have the best grip, and a handgrip sensor conveniently monitor your heart rate. It also supports users as heavy as 100kg. With all these great features at the price point stated, it is a great product.
Reach C-300 Elliptical Cross Trainer
The C-300 Elliptical is one the best elliptical cross trainer offered by the famous fitness manufacturers, Reach. Coming in at a price point of under twenty-five thousand, it makes for a great purchase. This electromagnetic elliptical cross trainer offers an adjustable resistance that you can adjust to eight different levels. The eight different resistance levels are provided through an adjustable tension knob to push yourself to various limits. It also includes features such as heart rate sensors on the handlebars and entertainment support that allows you to secure your iPad to the console and workout while you consume content. With a maximum weight rating of 100kg, it is one of the best cross trainers for beginners.
Aerofit AF 601 Elliptical Cross Trainer
The AF 601 Elliptical Cross Trainer offering by Aerofit is one of the best elliptical cross trainers with a seat. It comes in at a price point of under twenty-four thousand, making it a decently priced product. This belt drive elliptical cross trainer provides controls to allow you to adjust the resistance up to eight different levels. Another unique feature about this product is the ergonomically designed seat, which can be adjusted to eight different heights making it one of the best elliptical trainers for the elderly to adapt to a comfortable height. It also supports users as heavy as 100kg. Other notable features of this elliptical cross trainer include the LCD console and display feedback, which reads out and displays the time, speed, distance, pulse, and calories. All of these features make the elliptical cross trainer offering by Aerofit an excellent product.
Cockatoo CE03 Elliptical Cross Trainer
The CE03 offered by the famous fitness equipment manufacturer, Cockatoo, is one of the best elliptical trainers for big people. It comes in at a price point of just under seventeen thousand and supports people as heavy as 120kg and people as tall as 195cm. The electromagnetic resistance feature offers an adjustable resistance that can you can tune to eight different levels. Another great feature about this product is the foot-inclined pedals that provide an incline up to 12.82 degrees and automatically adjust to your feet’ natural movement. It also has a built-in LCD monitor that tracks and displays several metrics such as the number of calories burned, time, speed, and the distance covered during the workout. With all of these great features, it makes for a great purchase.
Zelex Multifunctional Elliptical Cross Trainer
The Welcare WC6044 is one of the best elliptical trainers with a seat. It comes in at a budget-friendly price point of under sixteen thousand. With maximum weight support of 90kg and an adjustable electromagnetic resistance of up to eight levels, it is an excellent product for the house. A great feature of this product is the adjustable seat, which can be tuned to cater to the user’s height. Another excellent feature is the presence of transport wheels that make the equipment extremely portable from one room to another. The hand pulse sensor and LCD monitor, which track speed, time, distance, heart rate, and calories burnt adds are also handy features. With all of these great features, it makes for a great buy.
Cockatoo OB-06 Elliptical Cross Trainer
The OB-06 Elliptical Cross Trainer is another great offering by the famous fitness equipment manufacturer Cockatoo. It is one of the best budget-friendly cross-trainers available in the market at a price point of under twelve thousand. The thirteen-inch non-slip pedals are designed to increase stability, and their height accommodation of 160-195cm and weight tolerance up to 110kg makes it one of the best elliptical trainers for ladies. It also includes a four-way adjustable seat that is, upwards, downwards, left and right, thereby allowing you to find the optimal seat angle for your workout. The mesh belt brake system and continuous levels of resistance offered by this product add to its credibility as one of the best budget-friendly variants in the market.
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Benefits Of Using Elliptical Trainers
Now that we have taken a good look at the various products available in the Indian market let us look at the multiple benefits associated with the use of a cross-trainer.
Full Body Workout
Unlike most fitness equipment, the elliptical trainer works every part of the body. As a consequence, you burn more calories. Starting at the top, holding the handles as your pedal with your legs, the pushing and pulling movements work the entire upper body, including your arms, chest, and shoulders. Coming to the lower half, by pedalling with your legs, you are first and foremost exercising your knees. To target your glutes, you should pedal backwards. By adjusting the resistance on the machine, you can get increase the strain on your legs. The harder you push your legs, the faster your arms move, thereby ensuring that the entire body is adequately worked.
Weight Loss
Elliptical machines are known as an excellent means to lose weight. People regularly use this piece of equipment in tandem with specific dietary restrictions and fairly quickly observe body fat loss. Elliptical trainers are often compared with treadmills as far as the number of calories burned is concerned. As opposed to the treadmill, the elliptical trainer works the entire body. It gives the illusion that lesser work is being done than a treadmill as several muscles are being worked simultaneously.
Variable Intensity Of Workout
As we have discussed extensively throughout this article, varying the resistance offered by the machine is a significant factor. If you haven’t been exercising for a long time, or have recently started working out, you can begin with a smaller resistance threshold. As you make progress, you can vary the resistance offered by the machine and work your muscles even harder. The ability to change the intensity ensures that you don’t overwork your muscles from the start. It will ensure that you exercise regularly and will not make the process undesirable.
Work Out At Home
Although there are several fitness-equipment that can you can use at home, not everything allows you to exercise your entire body. For example, you might have to use weights after using a treadmill or find other means to exercise your upper body. Or, if you only rely on weights, your lower body might not be worked adequately. The elliptical trainer solves this problem by ensuring that you only need one piece of equipment that works the entire body. Spending adequate time with varying levels of resistance can ensure you have a thorough workout right at your home’s comfort.
Safety
Injuries are another aspect that you have to consider. For example, while running on treadmills, you run the risk of falling. With several elliptical cross trainers coming with a seat, you can rest assured that the risk of injury is significantly lesser. Another significant difference between elliptical trainers and other equipment is the relatively lower exertion on joints. As the elliptical trainer targets the entire body, the risk of excessive strain on a particular body part is much lesser compared to other equipment.
Elliptical Trainer Vs. Treadmill
Elliptical Trainer
Pros
- Easier on joints.
- Extremely beneficial for a full-body workout.
Cons
- Lesser muscle growth as the workout is spread across different muscle groups.
- Steep learning curve. Not as simple as running or walking on a treadmill.
Treadmill
Pros
- Provides lots of control – slow walk, brisk walk, uphill running
- Leg muscles are specifically targeted, which leads to better exercise.
Cons
- Risk of injury.
- Fewer muscles are exercised. Mainly targets the legs.
Elliptical Trainer Vs. Stationary Bike
Elliptical Trainer
Pros
- Exercises both upper and lower body. Full body workout.
- More considerable impact on weight loss.
Cons
- Lesser impact on the joints.
- Comparatively more expensive. Cheaper variants are available.
Stationary Bike
Pros
- Mainly exercises the upper body.
- Comparatively less expensive.
- More impact on joints in the leg
Cons
- Moderate impact on weight loss.
Elliptical Trainer Vs. Walking / Running
Elliptical Trainer
Pros
- More impact on joints.
- More calories burnt.
Cons
- Lesser time spent outdoors.
- Purchasing overhead for equipment.
- Requires a fair amount of space.
Walking / Running
Pros
- More time spent outdoors.
- No equipment costs involved.
- Convenient as no space has to be designated for a machine.
Cons
- Lesser impact on joints.
- Lesser calories burnt.
Elliptical Trainer Vs. Cycling
Elliptical Trainer
Pros
- Full body workout.
- More calories are burnt—for example, an hour of exercise for the average individual burns 400-500 calories.
Cons
- Can strain muscles, at times.
- Equipment is relatively expensive, although cheaper alternatives are available.
Cycling
Pros
- Cheaper variants are available.
Cons
- Only works muscle groups in the leg.
- Relatively lesser number of calories are burnt. For example, an hour of workout for the average person burns 300 calories.
- Risk of knee and lower back injuries
Elliptical Trainers – Buying Guide
Now that we have taken a good look at the various benefits offered by an elliptical cross trainer let us take a look at some of the critical factors you should consider before purchasing one.
Weight
As you can see through this article, the number of options available in the market are numerous. Every elliptical trainer caters to a set of requirements. Along with this, every cross trainer also targets the specific needs of different individuals. For example, if you are a light weighted individual, it does not make sense to put in more money and purchase equipment that caters to slightly heftier individuals. Budget-friendly elliptical trainers support up to 90kg while people can use more expensive variants as heavy as 120kg. No matter how much you weigh, you can rest assured that there is an option for everyone in the market.
Stride Length
Stride length is another critical factor that you have to consider. Taller individuals have a longer stride length, and shorter individuals have a shorter stride length. Most elliptical cross trainers are made to accommodate every possible stride length. You should ensure that the stride length is not so much that it makes exercising on the machine a very uncomfortable experience. On the other hand, if you want to stretch your legs a bit more and have a shorter stride length, you should opt for a machine whose stride length is adjustable. It will ensure that you can change the stride length when you are in a mood to push yourself.
Q Factor
Q Factor is the distance between the inside of the pedals. As a thumb rule, most elliptical trainers have a two-inch Q Factor. For people with relatively smaller legs, this might be a tad uncomfortable. If you are on a shoestring budget, you should not have to worry about this much. You might experience a bit of discomfort in the initial stage, but your legs will eventually get used to it. But if your purse has a little bit of leeway, you should look for alternatives that either has a smaller Q Factor or provide a means to adjust the pedal width for a more comfortable experience.
Frequency Of Use
If you are a person who exercises regularly and for more extended periods, it makes sense to invest in a slightly more expensive machine. Generally, more expensive machines have a longer shelf life with minimal wear and tear. For individuals who do not plan to use the machine extensively, it makes more sense to opt for a budget-friendly option.
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Cross Trainers FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Let us now look at some of the most frequently asked questions individuals have while debating to purchase an elliptical cross-trainer.
What Is An Elliptical Trainer?
An elliptical trainer or a cross trainer is an exercise machine that you can use to perform various exercises. These include running, stair climbing, walking, and running. You can exercise without causing much exertion to the joints, thereby reducing the risk of injury.
Will Elliptical Trainer Help Lose Weight?
Yes. Elliptical trainers can be used to reduce weight. Most cross trainers also have an adjustable resistance, which allows you to make the process of losing weight faster or slower.
What Is An Elliptical Cross Trainer Good For?
An elliptical cross trainer is generally good for working out every part of the body. If you are looking to work out, albeit without much stress to the joints, and want a full-body workout experience, you should purchase an elliptical cross-trainer. The risk of injury is also lesser making it a safe alternative compared to most home fitness equipment.
Which Is The Best Elliptical Trainer To Buy?
The following are some elliptical trainers you can consider. These include the mid-tier to the budget-friendly spectrum of the market.
- Reach C-300 Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Cockatoo CE03 Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Welcare WC6044 Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Proline Fitness 335E Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Aerofit AF 601 Elliptical Cross Trainer
What Are Some Good Elliptical Trainers With Seats?
The following are some excellent elliptical trainers with seats.
- Welcare WC6044 Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Welcare WC6020 Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Aerofit AF 601 Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Cockatoo OB-06 Elliptical Cross Trainer
Can I Use The Elliptical Trainer Every Day?
Depending on how much exertion your body can tolerate, you should decide whether to use the elliptical trainer or not. If you plan to use it daily, you should consider buying a slightly more premium elliptical trainer than a budget-friendly option so that it lasts longer.
Can Elliptical Trainers Be Used To Lose Weight?
Yes. The elliptical trainer is used by many to lose weight. Considering an average individual and depending on how much you weigh, you can lose anywhere between 270 to 420 calories if you work out for half an hour.
What Is A Magnetic Elliptical Trainer?
Magnetic elliptical trainers are the most commonly used elliptical trainers, and they typically come in two variants. These are the Standard Magnetic Resistance and Electromagnetic Resistance. The Standard Magnetic Resistance system comes with a very powerful magnet that provides resistance depending on whether it is close or away to the flywheel. The current generated increases as the magnet gets closer to the flywheel, which creates resistance.
The Electromagnetic Resistance uses an electromagnet placed close to the flywheel. Resistance is created when you push a button present on the machine. Most machines also provide a knob which can be used to adjust the resistance.
Is Elliptical Trainer A Treadmill?
No. An elliptical trainer is a different machine typically used for a full-body workout, while people use the treadmill to exercise muscles in the legs.
Will Elliptical Trainer Help Burn Belly Fat?
Yes. As people use the elliptical trainer for a full-body workout, you extensively exercise both the upper and lower halves. With the right amount of resistance, you can burn a significant amount of body fat.
Conclusion
Elliptical trainers are one of the most popular ways to get a full-body workout experience. It is also less exertive on the joints making it a very safe home fitness equipment. The article also covers the various pros and cons of purchasing an elliptical trainer compared when compared with other fitness equipment. From bodyweight to Q factor and frequency of use, you have to consider several factors before buying an elliptical trainer. Keeping the numerous factors in mind, the Cockatoo CE03 Elliptical Cross Trainer should be at the top of your list when debating to buy an elliptical trainer. With stellar reviews and competitive pricing, it will not disappoint you.
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