How to Choose Your Elliptical & Cross Trainer?

Here's some advice to help you choose the right one.

Our Fitness Brand

DECATHLON's fitness brand offers useful suggestions for your workouts.

Choosing a cross trainer will depend on your fitness goals

(getting/staying in shape, losing weight, performance development) and

there are five criteria to consider: how often you’ll use it, pedalling action,

coaching, comfort and handling.

1. Usage

If you’re really keen to get into shape or push yourself towards a new goal you’ll probably

be using your cross trainer more often, but if you’re just keeping on top of your health or

pedalling as a little extra to your first fitness love (maybe running or kickboxing), you’ll

use it less. So far, so simple.

For Occasional Use

If you want to get back into sport or stay in shape, opt for a cross trainer with manual

adjustments and simple programmes with basic information. These models are easy to

use and are excellent for occasional use.

For Regular Use

To lose weight or tone up, we suggest choosing a model with various programmes to keep

you motivated. These models are great for training more regularly.

For Intensive Usage

To develop your endurance and performance, choose a model with more features. These

models are designed for intensive use and offer a greater number of functions such as a

heart rate monitor and coaching solutions.

2. Smooth Pedalling

Comfortable pedalling means a smooth motion without jerks. The flywheel weight is a

major factor in this action, which is why we suggest choosing a model with a flywheel

weighing at least 3kg for improved joint comfort.

The heavier the weight, the more comfortable pedalling will be, especially if you train

regularly. You should try several models to find the level of pedalling comfort that suits

you best.

3. Coaching

Different cross trainers offer different features:

1. Basic indicators on all cross trainers will provide the information you need to start

out: speed, distance, exercise time, average calories burnt, etc.

2. Various programmes (such as weight loss, performance development, etc.)

and heart rate tracking are a great way to change up your workouts, track your

progress and develop.

Remember that for maximum accuracy on heart rate, you should opt for models with a

heart rate strap.

Compatible applications for certain cross trainers can give you a customised workout

depending on your physical ability and goals.

4. Adjustment

Some cross trainers have adjustable handlebars and pedals. These are important

features to consider as they let you adjust the cross trainer to suit your body.

5. Handling

For easy storage of your cross trainer at home, certain models feature wheels meaning

you can move your equipment as necessary.