Also known as elliptical bikes or elliptical trainers, cross trainers have been increasingly popular over the last few years.
They are popular because they provide a good cardio workout, they are easy to use and they allow a cardio activity without impact as opposed to running on a treadmill. Even the best treadmills featuring the most ingenious cushioning system will not be able to fully absorb the impact on your knees.
With a cross trainer machine, there is no impact. And that’s great for you knees! 🙂We have selected the best home crosstrainer machines from £1,000 to £3,000 that we think are really worth considering.
OUR SELECTION
NordicTrack has been a leader in elliptical bikes and crosstrainers for a very long time. And the new 12.9 Commercial model demonstrates it.
With the New Commercial 12.9, you can customise your settings for specific results. At the touch of a button you can adjust your stride length, incline, and resistance.
The AutoBreeze™ fan adapts its speed to match your workout intensity.
You can enjoy your favourite films / video clips while you work out with an adjustable tablet holder and integrated sound system.
Of course, it comes with the EKG grips which are integrated heart rate monitors / sensors and it also comes with an included wireless chest strap which is a bonus.
The only negative: its a BIG machine and with total length of 80″, well you’ll need a spacious room to be able to use it. Not really a negative but more of an important criteria to keep it mind if you fancy this rather cheap elliptical cross trainer for Nordictrack.
If you fancy a gym-like cross trainer, then go for the Life Fitness E1 mentioned above, if not, then the Commercial 12.9 from NordicTrack is a FANTASTIC machine. We absolutely loved it.
You can find the cheapest New Commercial 12.9 directly from the manufacturer, including all guarantees and a peace of mind.
Key Specs
Bowflex MaxTrainer M5
The Bowflex MaxTrainer M5 is a serious contender for all of you that want to burn calories quickly and tone their whole bodies without joint pain.
Whether you’re seeking weight loss or high-intensity training, the MaxTrainer M5 is your best answer.
In fact, on top of being an all-rounder machine by burning calories super-fast and toning your core muscles, it allows almost no harsh impact on your knees or ankles.
Using the Hiit method (intensity interval method), you can melt fat twice faster than on a treadmill or a classic elliptical bike. Studies have been made to back that fact if you’re interested.
The only tiny negative we can find is the poor display console which looks small and fairly basic considering the price of this crosstrainer. But don’t let this detail scare you.
Under £2,000, the NaxTrainer M5 is such a good value cardio machine. We loved it and would recommend you to consider it. We could not find cheaper than on Amazon.
Key Specs
The LifeFitness E1 cross trainer is a serious contender for all of you that want to burn calories quickly and tone their whole bodies without joint pain.
Whether you’re seeking weight loss or high-intensity training, the E1 from LifeFitness is your best answer.
In fact, on top of being an all-rounder machine by burning calories super-fast and toning your core muscles, it allows almost no harsh impact on your knees or ankles.
Using the Hiit method (intensity interval method), you can melt fat twice faster than on a treadmill or a classic elliptical bike. Studies have been made to back that fact if you’re interested.
The only tiny negative we can find is the poor display console which looks small and fairly basic considering the price of this crosstrainer. But don’t let this detail scare you.
Under £2,000, the LifeFitness E1 is such a good value cardio machine. We loved it. If you want a gym-like machine, we strongly recommend you to consider it.
Key Specs
The Synchro Forma is a top end cross trainer and if you have cash to splash, well you can splash it on this one!
For a comfortable, low impact workout that delivers on workout versatility, look no further than the Synchro Forma Elliptical Cross Trainer.
It’s visually very attractive, Technogym has done a great job from a design perspective. Very solid and sleek piece of equipment for sure.
Not only the design is immaculate, Technogym has also developed a very quiet crosstrainer with this Synchro Forma.
The long arms of the Synchro Forma are good as well, easy to grip.
Even though it looks quite “bulky”, you will be surprised by the softness of the elliptical movement. It’s different than the other elliptical cross trainers you may have tried in the past, in fact that’s very natural.
The console is probably the only “negative” we could think of. It could do with more features, it seems a bit “basic” for this price point. Having said that, this console is very responsive and intuitive to use. For example, connecting your iPad or iPhone is easy compared to some cross trainers you can find on the market for that price point.
If you’re ready to invest in a gym-like machine for home that looks the part, well, the Technogym Synchro Format is for you!
Key Specs
Our Verdict
Nordictrack New C12.9 Crosstrainer

TECHNOGYM Synchro Crosstrainer

LIFE FITNESS E1 CROSSTRAINER

How to choose an elliptical bike or crosstrainer