12 Surprising Benefits of Elliptical Cross Trainers [and 3 Risks]

We reveal the 12 most important benefits of elliptical cross trainers and 3 main disadvantages associated with using this machine. It's time to find out whether you can successfully lose weight or gain new muscles by using an elliptical trainer.
You need to understand how a cross trainer can actually be useful to your workout routine, whether you plan to do it at home or in a local gym.
Source: www.fitnessguides.co.uk/cross...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pro tip: Book a personalized consultation with the engine behind Fitnessdy, certified Cardio and Fitness Trainer, Ioana. We can do talk through email, build a personalized workout plan, and more. ioanacozma.setmore.com/
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[@anoshya]

Went on the cross trainer for 30 mins on moderate setting..best nights sleep for a long time. Good if you have anxiety which starts in the stomach area too

[@shilpa577]

Thnq for ur commnt,,,im very frstated of not getting proper sleep on tym

[@victoriaromero9929]

Eso rs lo que yo busco también Genial..

[@katehillier1027]

LISTEN to your body. If you can only do a little bit that’s fine! I did a 20 minutes and that was like first run.

[@eliascraig5406]

I have been using it on 10 for an hour and burn 800 calories a day

[@Islam4ever2006]

About 2 years ago, I couldn't even do 5 mins. I kept going at it over time. I was in and out of the gym, but always loved doing my warm ups on the elliptical. Its easier on my knees. I just started challenging myself to do 20,000 steps, 10,000 strides (half marathon) everyday for 30 days on a lateral elliptical. Today, I'm on day 3. I love how I feel and can sleep better. I'm sore, but not unbearable like after lifting weights for the first time. I'm getting ready to go to the gym for my 20k. I lost 3 lbs so far, but that could be excess water. It's not easy, it takes me a long time, but I'm determined to keep going.

[@Fitnessdy]

Hey, thanks so much for sharing! Yes, exercise releases a ton of endorphins and helps you feel and sleep better. Plus, achieving your goals every day is extremely motivating and fuels up all your day :)

[@rajamaheshwaranrng195]

Thanks for the informative video

[@oliverford5367]

They're awesome, but use a high resistance. Aim at burning at least 10 calories a minute on it. Don't just let it spin with momentum. Put it on the highest resistance you can still use to get your heart rate up.

[@user-vs7md8dz2r]

What resistance exactly u would recommend ?

[@oliverford5367]

@@user-vs7md8dz2r The exact number on your machine. I'd recommend about 4/5 of the maximum resistance. So it's a bit of a challenge to move but not too much that you lose the cardio aspect. Mine has 25 levels I normally do level 20, and 21 if I'm feeling fit

[@eddenoy321]

I agree. I had a hip replacement 2 yrs ago and began the elliptical may 9 months ago. Started easy and now can do the maximum resistance and incline. It's not exactly easy, because its boring, so I need music or TV. On days I don't do it, I try long walks (weather permitting). I never do high intensity, just moderate, as I am afraid I might damage the implant. So far, so good. Pleased with it.

[@sharonkour9721]

what is the resistance you recommend please and how do you change the resistance on the cross trainer I just see minutes calories speed what does the button look like I need to click please im fairly new to the cross trainer and I feel so good using it I had a bad arm due to weight training, and since I got on the cross trainer my arms seems so much better on its own now I have breast tissue soreness due wearing wrong bra while working out and I hope the cross trainer gets rid of this but I have sports massage and physio going on too so hope it helps I want at least do at least 1 hour on it as I pretty enjoy it it wasn't boring for I can't listen to music because I like to concentrate on thr workout like a meditation it feels I felt relaxed came off it felt so taller. Hope it helps me Thank you for any tips

[@oliverford5367]

@@sharonkour9721 The highest you can manage

[@melissasylvia5621]

I worked my way to resistance 10 incline 12. I burn over 200 calories in 30 min. I try to burn 100 calories every 15 min to get the ultimate use out of my elliptical. I try to use it 3-4 times a week. I have the Sole E25. In addition to my cardio, I practice yoga and use weights. I appreciated the tips in this video. Thank you!

[@KeishannaMichele]

Very helpful

[@macflod]

Im so overweight i use 500 or more cals in 30mins im on a work trip for several weeks with easy access to one and been using daily this month and seeing great results. Now will order one for home so as to keep routine. Its ideal for me as any impact exercise soon leads to injury as im carrying 30+kg too much 🙈

[@Fitnessdy]

Hey hey, so glad it helps! And remember, exercise is just a small part of your day. How active you are and how healthy you eat matters more than anything else

[@justinpeterson2105]

A lot of people like to hate on the elliptical, scoffing at it, dismissing it as a waste of time Well, yeah, if you've got the thing on Level 1 and you're not even breaking a sweat, yes, it's a waste of time But if you go hard it's a fantastic machine that can work your WHOLE body My advice: cycle through different postures every couple minutes to work every muscle (grab bars way low, then low, then middle, then high; get up on your toes, then on your heels, ETC)

[@Fitnessdy]

Exactly on point! Also, shoulders down and retracted.

[@matejovich]

Excellent video!

[@Fitnessdy]

Thank you very much! If you have any suggestions for new videos, let me know 😀

[@believe-in-righteousness]

Thanks mate

[@mahboobkhan6002]

Thanks inform.

[@Omnimon152]

I just bought an elliptical trainer because I need to lose fat, and increase my stamina. I'm a 130 kilos man, and even if I don't have heart issues, I still need to work with that machine. I won't hurt my knees, back or ankles atleast so that's good.

[@Fitnessdy]

That's a great plan, you analyzed the situation well. As a tip, remember to keep your shoulder blades squeezed (without exaggerating the squeeze though) to engage your upper body more. Many people let their arms simply track the handles, which messes with their progress. And keep us posted about your weight loss journey 😀

[@Omnimon152]

@@Fitnessdy Okay thanks :)

[@marymalinowski8166]

Great to review these benefits. I am working on using my game especially after too many sweet during the Pandemic. Enjoyed a wonderful 60 min workout on my elliptical today . Carpe Diem everyone!

[@victoriaromero9929]

Genial

[@MadChristoph]

I use the cross trainer to help me with my running

[@katehillier1027]

Also use weights to build up strength.

[@lunarcontact]

Great video

[@Fitnessdy]

Glad you enjoyed it! Let me know if you want me to tackle any other topic :)

[@bavaayin9574]

Love how he say squeeze in some cheat meals

[@gunnysreviews9411]

Criminally underrated machine. If you have an injury from running or other sports, this is a great low impact exercise that's keeps you fit and strong. Also not many cardio machines keep a leg strength balance, for example cycling is very quad dominant and can create imbalances that lead to injuries.

[@Fitnessdy]

Precisely. It completely slipped my mind that this isn't quad-dominant like cycling, but it's another reason in its favor :)

[@WhyAreTheyOverHere]

An elliptical and an "elliptical cross trainer" are not the same .The terms are only used synonymously by the uninformed. Any machine that has you moving in an ellipse type movement ('eye' like shape/pattern) can be classified as an elliptical. If you are able to change aspects of that elliptical movement shape, like thickness, length, or pitch, it's an elliptical cross trainer. The theoretical issue with the elliptical is that it has eliminated the *force* to the body from *impact* while introducing a new force (and potential source of problems or injury) which is that the machine is forcing the weight bearing motion that may be incongruent with the user long term. By providing the ability to change that movement, you are providing a "cross training" effect to your body, preventing an over-use/stress issue from occurring. So cross training is applying alternative stressors to how the body is moving in order to achieve the end result and preventing an injury (your weak link failing). This is why the inventor (Precor) put a ramp mechanism on their elliptical. They called it a "cross ramp".

[@Fitnessdy]

Sure thing, and great explanation, thanks!

[@marlowemiller7585]

18 weeks to ace your routine: Weeks 1-2: 1-5mins, low intensity, every 2-3 days or so (until you get used to the sensation) Weeks 3-4: 5-10mins, low intensity, every other day Weeks 5-6: 15mins, low intensity, every other day Weeks 7-8: 15mins, medium intensity, every other day Weeks 9-10: 20mins, medium intensity, every other day Weeks 11-12: 15mins, high intensity, every other day Weeks 13-14: 20mins, high intensity, every other day Weeks 15-16: 25mins, high intensity, every other day Weeks 17-18: 30mins, high intensity, every other day

[@silverandblk75]

Thank you this is what I needed to get started.

[@Nirsterkur]

Why not everyday, rather than every other day?

[@sharonkour9721]

so did you lose weight

[@katehillier1027]

It’s running on an elliptical so take it easy!

[@glennrochester2428]

If you "peddle" backwards, is it likely to exercise the glutes rather than quads? I have an imbalance due to over execising my quads for skiing. The net result is damaged meniscus. I want to rest my quads and build up the muscles at the back of my legs to reposition my knee and thereby avoid surgery. Glenn Rochester

[@AS-sm9yj]

Hi there, have you tried more glute isolating workouts such as weighted hip thrust or weighted glute bridge? Also, when trying to focus on glutes, you MUST squeeze during the workout. If you cant feel your glutes, they're not growing. :)

[@sharonkour9721]

if you use cross trainer it should help with pain and Injury don't over do it 30 min or 60 a week is enough to see changes

[@hanxa_dj]

I do the lowest resistance for a longer time about 40 minutes.

[@San.Garcia]

Use 1.25x playback speed....your welcome...

[@intissarjk3282]

U saved my day thanks

[@ankaimen]

1.5x is better 😂

[@samimchowdhury5326]

Me 2x

[@tobyturner6653]

Anyone know the Elliptical type machine is called at 6:12

[@Fitnessdy]

Hi Toby, that's a Bowflex Max Trainer.

[@christeenadridge2173]

Will this help to give me a small week and not build my obliques outwards?

[@JAPelicano1]

Do you mean small "waist"?

[@stefanplaza]

This video naration is actually extremely funny

[@Me-mn4nw]

I like to put them on 2X.

[@livelystone9367]

Love the risks He expresses these things CAN be avoided. Use the elliptical machine(anything for that reason) in moderation for best results. Consult with you doctor before trying new machines or activities. If you cant make it to the doctor, just start off small & take note to how your body responds. Start with 30 minutes low resistance every other day--- Monday Wednesday & Friday or Tuesday Thursday & SATURDay. Then after you are use to that increase it to 30 minute sessions of a higher resistance. Whatever you choose is up to you..just take it in moderation & congratulate yourself for WORKING OUT !

[@Bushcraft242]

Arthritis ankles knees scoliosis mid back age 63

[@thecursedond3374]

I use it 4 hours per week I run 40km per week

[@toadface8627]

Is 15 minutes enough?I'm a big guy 5'11" 260lbs. I usually do 30 minutes, but I know alot of big guys typically do 15 minutes. For some reason my brain and body shut down at 15 minutes. Going to keep trying to blast through the 15 minute barrier though.

[@Fitnessdy]

It depends on your goals, speed and resistance 😀 for example, 15 minutes at high speed and low to medium resistance has good caloric burn (bc you burn more glycogen) and muscle activation. 30 minutes at high resistance and low-medium speed is better for fat burn and muscle building. Low resistance and low speed is good for cardio health. As for high-resistance and high-speed combo - this is best for Hiit to maximize your afterburn effect and lose weight faster. 15 minutes should be enough here :)

[@Simbu.]

they're so happy working out. that's far from reality

[@cozykitchen9819]

I can't do elliptical more then 3mints. Is it okay?

[@christineevans282]

well done, I have only just started using elliptical and can only manage 2mins at the moment.

[@riseandthrive28]

Any physical activity is good. In time, you'll increase it.

[@BlackWestCoast]

I started off at around 15 mins but now i can go for 50 mins 6 months later. Gradual increase each time

[@NatsFan18]

I can't tell if this is a troll/joke comment or not lol

[@BlackWestCoast]

@@NatsFan18 some ppl are that unfit

[@chadcase5936]

Solid Value in a Stationary Bike -- Must Supply own Phone/tablet if you want to use workout videos

[@vajihajabbar1773]

I ve knee pain can use it

[@Fitnessdy]

Please ask your doctor for personalized advice. There are too many types of knee pain and medical issues that cause them for me to give you a better advice than asking your doctor :)

[@talhakazi9182]

Does muscle gets affected if doing eleptical

[@Fitnessdy]

You may hurt yourself if you're doing too much, sure Otherwise, 30-60 minute sessions 3-5 times per week will help you build muscle resistance and tone

[@talhakazi9182]

@Fitnessdy so kind of you removing my doubt. I needed the answer to this. Thanks for being helpful 🙂🙂

[@mayasaali9528]

I started cross trainer i month now at 30 minutes lower level but until today am not seen to reduction of my weight. why? or there's something wrong

[@Fitnessdy]

There could be many reasons, such as the level is too low, you're not challenging yourself by squeezing your muscles and staying focused, you may be more hungry than usual and thus eat more. Or you may have an endocrine issue.. There are lots of variables here :)

[@Kmasse8]

Rather than focusing on your weight, monitor your waist circumference. You might have gained muscle mass.

[@user-mf6ng4zt8n]

Is there with set?

[@HumbleBearcat]

That's stationary bike with arm exercise.

[@MuskanJafry]

Can Cross trainers makes ur legs thin?

[@Fitnessdy]

It really depends on genetics, but cross trainers help you lose body fat because aerobic workouts use oxygen to burn fat as fuel (by comparison, anaerobic exercise burn glycogen). Also, cross trainers use your legs, but don't create hypertrophy (aka muscle growth). So that means they can indeed make your legs slimmer. But genetics matters because some people who store fat primarily in their legs will have a harder time getting slim legs, and may first lose fat from other body parts. So, my advise is to do cross-trainer 15 minutes, followed by leg resistance exercises for another 10-15 minutes. That's to maximize fat burn in this area particularly. Good luck and let me know how you progress!! 🩵💪

[@virendrad]

I developed lower backache after using electrical cross trainer for 2 months, I have no history of backache. Any solution?

[@jakcarn4184]

Don't lie don't try to put people off using such a wonderful machine

[@johnhilton9023]

You probably suffered from electrocution. Common when using an electrical cross trainer

[@toosense]

Maybe it's old age.

[@jeanettecoakley1080]

@@johnhilton9023 does this machine use battery and where does it goes

[@jeanettecoakley1080]

@@toosense i have a live strong but i don't know if it use battery or a cord

[@lyncyr9441]

Why do my knees hurt after elliptical?

[@titusradulescu9210]

It should not, unless you already have a knee problem or valgus/varum problem or you are doing it with wrong foot position.

[@Me-mn4nw]

​@@titusradulescu9210Most obese people have issues with their knees. The best thing for them is to exercise in water until they get their weight down.

[@marxman300]

​@Me-mn4nw but how do u know the person is obese 🤔

[@Me-mn4nw]

@marxman300 Most older people on here are. It is the main cause of issues with knees.

[@panchopuskas1]

With elliptical you can combine cardio with strength training. Just switch to a higher level than you feel comfortable with and use you arms more : 5 minutes pushing, then 5 minutes pulling and so on. It's amazing our much shape you can put on your upper body.....by far the best machine in the gym.....the higher the level, the harder it is but the better the results you'll get.....

[@Fitnessdy]

Exactly. However, for the people not getting much upper body tone on the elliptical, squeeze your shoulder blades back and contract your arms

[@arivuselvam5914]

How much price this machine?

[@c.nidario3029]

You can buy a new one for 150/200 euros, but you can buy a second hand elliptical cheaper tbh

[@justsomesleapydudeonacouch4524]

I bought mine second hand for 15 euros

[@bijuaugustine2159]

Around 30 thousand in india

[@tsvetomiriliev5804]

Just bought for 600 euro. It is more expensive than the cheaper alternatives, but this one has the ability to adjust resistance automatically and keep your heart rate at a desired level (the fat burning zone), feature is called heart rate control or heart rate training. Its the cheapest "electromagnetic" cross trainer i could find, but that feature sold me instantly - the cross trainer is horizon syros pro. Waiting to arrive in a few days.

[@tharunhanig3154]

My ankle joints started paining after using cross trainer, will it vanish after few months once I get used to the exercises?

[@logan9920]

Should go away in couple weeks as you lose weight. Try 10 mins the. Break walk around then sit to give feet a rest. Then try 5-10 more

[@jennaostroff6742]

Definitely stretch beforehand

[@lellosbarello90]

Stretch and put ice(not directly on the skin, use a piece of cloth) on inflammed joints

[@bradturner7678]

Yeah elliptical is very low joint stress so it should go, maybe your feet are in an odd position which causes strain over a long workout.

[@sharonkour9721]

sometimes it's not the machine they hurt ur feet, it's the feet itself maybe your feet is new to this form of workout and the cross trainer definitely will get rid of any pain and any other pains you may have from working out. The cross trainer builds strength to all parts of the body, I recommend wearing good footware too. Workout moderately till your pain goes and you get used to it and then yiu can increase intensity. But do go slow.

[@ImperionX48]

Does using an elliptical help make you taller (at least if you're still growing) ?

[@bradturner7678]

No

[@sharonkour9721]

if u do yoga you will get taller even if older as its stretches your body to be become flexible and comfortable

[@darcief3905]

Is 12 minutes first time ok?

[@TravelingwithValeman77]

Any time is better than zero time. Haha. Just keep working on going longer each week. Add 5 mins each week. How has the first month gone?

[@ArdxnFX]

I did 15 mins and I lost 100 calories and I was Pretty tired considering I do tennis on the side it always shocks me

[@darcief3905]

@@TravelingwithValeman77 I can do 45 mins high-ish intensity but any longer literally kills me 😅

[@TravelingwithValeman77]

@@darcief3905 that's awesome!!

[@kim7011491]

Yea, you have to build up your endurance and stamina. When i first started i struggled to get 20 mins in now in up to 1 hour with ease. The more you use it the better

[@awfan221]

Yea I use it every other day for 30 mins. Would never use this daily.

[@proudtobeblue]

I use it every day nothing wrong with it

[@awfan221]

@@proudtobeblue come back to me here when you hit your 60s. We'll talk about your knees then

[@polasalavarrieta4115]

I use it every day for 30 mins & love it.

[@marxman300]

​@@awfan221😂😂

[@adityanikam1473]

Do 1min = 10 cal

[@salihalamri4477]

Motherly duck

[@Maza675]

People wanting to lose weight don't need close up shots of addictive foods like pizza to start them craving

[@jbeav3902]

Bottom of my feet hurt after 30 minutes

[@Fitnessdy]

You may need to check your posture or the adjustments you've made on the machine