When it comes to choosing a piece of exercise equipment for your home gym, you may come across two popular options: the elliptical and the cross trainer. While both of these machines provide a low-impact, full-body workout, they do have some differences that are worth considering before making your decision.
In this article, we will explore the key differences between ellipticals and cross trainers and help you determine which one might be best for your fitness goals.
What is an Elliptical?
An elliptical, also known as an elliptical trainer or cross-trainer, is a piece of stationary exercise equipment that mimics the motion of running or walking while reducing the impact on your joints. The machine features two pedals that move in an oval or elliptical pattern, which is where it gets its name.
Ellipticals typically have handlebars that you can hold onto while you exercise, and some models also have movable handlebars that provide an upper-body workout as well. Most ellipticals allow you to adjust the resistance level, incline, and speed, allowing you to customize your workout to your fitness level and goals.
Ellipticals are popular for a few reasons. First, they provide a low-impact workout, which is gentler on your joints than running or walking on a hard surface. This makes ellipticals a good option for people who are recovering from an injury or who have joint pain or arthritis. Second, ellipticals provide a full-body workout that targets your legs, glutes, arms, and core. This makes them an efficient option for people who want to burn calories and build muscle.
What is a Cross Trainer?
A cross trainer, also known as an elliptical cross trainer or an X-trainer, is a type of elliptical machine that provides a full-body workout. Like an elliptical, it features two pedals that move in an elliptical pattern, but it also has two sets of handlebars that move back and forth in a cross-country skiing motion.
The motion of the cross trainer provides a full-body workout that targets your legs, glutes, arms, and core. Because the handlebars move, it also provides an upper-body workout that engages your chest, shoulders, and back. Like ellipticals, cross trainers typically allow you to adjust the resistance level, incline, and speed.
Cross trainers are popular for similar reasons to ellipticals. They provide a low-impact, full-body workout that is gentler on your joints than running or walking on a hard surface. They are also efficient at burning calories and building muscle.
Key Differences between Ellipticals and Cross Trainers
While ellipticals and cross trainers share many similarities, there are a few key differences that set them apart.
Handlebars
One of the biggest differences between ellipticals and cross trainers is the handlebars. Ellipticals typically have stationary handlebars that you can hold onto while you exercise. Some models have movable handlebars that provide an upper-body workout, but they don’t move back and forth like the handlebars on a cross trainer.
Cross trainers, on the other hand, have two sets of handlebars: one stationary set and one set that moves back and forth. This provides an upper-body workout that engages your chest, shoulders, and back.
Motion
Another difference between ellipticals and cross trainers is the motion of the pedals. While both machines move in an elliptical pattern, cross trainers provide a more natural motion that mimics the motion of cross-country skiing. This motion engages your core and upper body more than an elliptical, which can be beneficial for people who want to tone their abs and arms.
Resistance
Finally, there may be some differences in the resistance settings between ellipticals and cross trainers. Some cross trainers may have more resistance settings than ellipticals, which can provide a more challenging workout for advanced users. Additionally, some cross trainers may allow you to adjust the resistance on the upper-body handlebars separately from the pedals, allowing you to target specific muscle groups.
Which One is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing between an elliptical and a cross trainer, there are a few factors to consider.
If you are looking for a low-impact workout that targets your entire body, both machines are good options. However, if you want a machine that provides a more natural motion and engages your upper body more, a cross trainer may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you want a machine that provides a simpler, more straightforward workout, an elliptical may be the way to go.
Another factor to consider is your fitness level and goals. If you are new to exercise or have joint pain or arthritis, an elliptical may be a better option because it provides a gentler, lower-impact workout. If you are an experienced exerciser looking for a challenge, a cross trainer may be a better choice because it provides more resistance settings and engages more muscle groups.
Finally, consider your budget and the amount of space you have available. Ellipticals and cross trainers come in a variety of sizes and price points, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs and budget.
In summary, both ellipticals and cross trainers are great options for a low-impact, full-body workout. Ellipticals provide a simple, straightforward workout, while cross trainers provide a more natural motion and engage your upper body more. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to your personal preferences, fitness goals, and budget. No matter which machine you choose, both will provide an effective and efficient workout that can help you achieve your fitness goals.