01.Introduction
Test results for seven elliptical crosstrainers, priced from $398 to $2499
Crosstrainers give a combination of cardiovascular, lower- and upper-body exercise. The foot pedals move in an elliptical pattern, similar to slow running, giving your legs and torso a workout without the jarring impact of jogging. The moving handles exercise your arms and shoulders, rather like cross-country skiing. The result is a low-impact but effective overall workout.
Crosstrainers are popular machines in gyms, and there are many models available for home use. CHOICE put seven models to the test, to find which ones are easiest and most comfortable to use while still giving an effective workout. The crosstrainers were tested by two fitness experts, Dr Aron Murphy and Jane Flemming and by a panel of 10 CHOICE staff. We weighted the opinions of the experts more heavily, as they were able to assess the crosstrainers for ergonomics and safety as well as their range of programs and suitability for different users.
The score given by CHOICE trialists indicates how likely a layperson is to buy each machine, assuming a reasonable price. The experts and CHOICE users generally agreed on their ratings for most of the machines. Clearly, the selection of a crosstrainer is a personal choice and depends very much on your physique, fitness and how much space you have at home.
Models tested
- Action X135
- Bremshey Orbit Control 19F
- Healthrider H70E
- Infiniti Fitness EX150
- Insight E7000P
- Nordic Track ENT500
- Proform 380 Razor
Please note: this information was current as of November 2009 but is still a useful guide today.
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3 Sep 2010
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We all know we need to exercise, but few of us have the time, or the motivation to fit it into our lives. That's where the home treadmill comes in.
2 Jul 2010
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The crosstrainer (also called an elliptical trainer) has been growing in popularity. The smooth-flowing movement has been likened to a mix of cross-country skiing and slow running.
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5 Sep 2005
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We asked readers who own exercise bikes, treadmills and elliptical trainers what makes for a good or bad purchase decision.
