SportPlus
cross trainer
New here?
You're still not sure which cross trainer suits you?
Take the test NOW and find your perfect SportBuddy with us.
1. Benefits of a cross trainer and elliptical trainer
2. Difference between cross trainer and elliptical trainer
3. Difference between cross trainer and cross trainer ergometer
4. How a cross trainer or elliptical trainer works
5. Important purchase criteria at a glance
6. Heart rate measurement: coded vs. uncoded chest straps
8. App compatibility and app control
9. Other important purchase criteria
Targeted endurance training is the right way to increase your condition, adopt a more energetic lifestyle and thus get a little closer to the figure you want. The cross trainer and the elliptical trainer have proven themselves for holistic training of the body, as they simultaneously train the arms, legs, shoulders, chest and hips in one flowing movement.
ㅤ
SportPlus cross trainer at a glance:
We have a cross trainer overview so that you can compare all the relevant properties of the SportPlus cross trainer better with one another created.
Both pieces of fitness equipment are particularly easy on the joints and are also ideal for training at home! Thanks to various training programs, a dynamic and varied training of the entire musculature is guaranteed. The whole body can be involved thanks to the simultaneous arm and leg movement. This prevents one-sided loading. This means that training on the cross and elliptical trainer can be done every day.
ㅤ
1. What are the advantages of a cross trainer and elliptical trainer?
Training with a cross trainer or elliptical trainer offers the following advantages:
+ Training that is easy on the joints
+ Equal use of different muscle groups
+ High calorie consumption and different training modes
+ Running backwards possible
In the following we will look at the advantages mentioned again in detail.
Also:
Training on the cross and elliptical trainer is possible regardless of the weather. So rain or cold are no longer reasons to postpone important endurance training.
ㅤ
1.1 Joint-gentle training
Cross trainers allow compared to other fitness equipment a particularly joint-gentle endurance training. In contrast to walking or jogging, there is no jerky and rough putting down of the feet, where large forces act on the joints. The impact energy generated when walking or jogging outdoors is many times your own body weight and can therefore quickly lead to knee pain. The movement on a cross trainer is dynamic and particularly gentle on the joints, as the feet are firmly on the treads throughout the training and no unpleasant recoil is caused.
ㅤ
1.2 Uniform stress different muscle groups
During endurance training on the cross trainer, many muscle groups in the lower and upper body are used. Unlike with a bicycle ergometer, not only the large muscles in the lower body (calf muscles, thigh muscles and buttock muscles) are trained, but also the upper body muscles (arm muscles, abdominal muscles, back muscles and shoulders).
By moving the legs parallel to each other and arms, coordination and sense of balance are also strengthened. During normal training on the cross trainer, the muscles in the lower body are used and trained more, since most of the power has to be exerted on the legs.
Tip:
If you want to intensify your upper body training, you can simply use your arms more and get the cross trainer moving
ㅤ
The simultaneous strain on the upper and lower body leads to a high training intensity and boosts fat burning. The actual calorie consumption depends on the training duration, the training intensity (resistance) and the resulting load. The latter can be determined quite reliably via the heart rate.
Anyone who trains on the cross trainer to burn fat should choose a lower resistance level, but train longer. For effective muscle training, it is advisable to choose a higher resistance level close to your personal strength limit and to train for a shorter time.
Tip:
Interval training is also an option to improve your condition, strengthen your muscles and at the same time let excess pounds tumble.
ㅤ
1.4 Running backwards for more variety
A big advantage , which distinguishes training on the cross trainer and elliptical trainer from classic jogging and walking is backward running. The backward movement uses different muscle groups than the forward movement. Running backwards demands more of your arms than running forwards. The muscles in the buttocks are also put under more strain when walking backwards.
ㅤ
2. What is the difference between a cross trainer and an elliptical trainer?
There are not many differences between a cross trainer and an elliptical trainer. Therefore, both terms are often used interchangeably. However, some small differences in relation to the movement sequence can be worked out, which we will examine in more detail below.
ㅤ
2.1 Cross trainer: Round movements like jogging The cross trainer simulates movements similar to jogging. The flywheel (flywheel mass) of the cross trainer is installed in the rear part of the device. Thus, the flywheel mass is located behind the trainee. The movement is characterized by a higher up and down movement. The heels remain firmly on the treads (pedals) during the entire movement. The movement pattern is more circular. Compared to the elliptical trainer, you stand on a classic cross trainer with your legs a little wider because the frame of the device is between the treads. The stride length on a cross trainer is therefore significantly shorter than on an elliptical trainer. ㅤ 2.2 Elliptical trainer: Even more natural movements The elliptical trainer simulates movements in a similar way like walking. In contrast to the cross trainer, the flywheel of the elliptical trainer is installed in the front part of the device and is therefore in front of the user. The movement is characterized by a flatter upward and downward movement. The movements are more gliding than circling. When training on an elliptical trainer, the heels automatically lift off the treads (pedals), which further reduces the stress on the joints. The movement pattern is more elliptical (which explains the name of the device) and corresponds to a much flatter circular shape than the cross trainer. This comes closer to the natural movement and running feels more comfortable for some. Due to the properties mentioned, gyms almost exclusively use elliptical trainers. Although they are a bit more expensive to buy, they are easier on the joints and more natural in movement. However, the difference in the movement sequence of cross trainers and elliptical trainers has no noticeable effect on calorie consumption. In the end, the subjective feeling of the user decides how comfortable one feels on the respective device. ㅤ Ergometers are often used as a synonym for exercise bikes. This is not only misleading, but also wrong! Only fitness equipment that enables watt-controlled training may use the addition "ergometer". An ergometer is able to adjust the training resistance continuously and continuously via the magnetic brake system via a watt specification. By definition, watts are a unit for measuring performance. With an ergometer, you can set a watt specification on the training computer. This ensures that a preset performance limit is not exceeded. If you receive instructions from your doctor (e.g. as part of rehabilitation measures) to train at 120 watts, you can only do this with an ergometer ensure that the specified performance limit is not exceeded. With an ergometer, the desired watt load is always guaranteed, regardless of how fast you train. The resistance adapts fully automatically to the selected wattage setting. The resistance adjustment is controlled by the training computer. If you train more slowly, the resistance automatically increases to the set wattage. If, on the other hand, you train faster, the resistance is automatically reduced so that the specified performance limit is not exceeded. There are cross trainers that are allowed to carry the additional designation ergometer due to the possibility of watt-controlled training. But don't be fooled when buying a cross trainer ergometer. A cross trainer that does not allow watt-controlled training is not an ergometer. Cross trainer ergometers are particularly suitable for people who are undergoing physiotherapeutic treatment or rehabilitation measures. For this reason (almost) all physiotherapists and many fitness studios are equipped with ergometers. ㅤ 3.1 For whom is the cross trainer suitable? Generally Cross trainers and elliptical trainers are suitable for all people who do not want to go to the gym or run all the time to train. Due to the guided, ergonomic movement sequence, they are particularly suitable for sports beginners. It is worth buying if you have set yourself the goal of weight loss (calorie consumption) or are looking to increase endurance. Even if you sit a lot at work and want to train your upper body and lung capacity, purchasing such a fitness device is a good choice. Good to know: People who are overweight will find a suitable companion in the cross trainer. Training that is easy on the joints is very important, especially if you are overweight. If you train on a treadmill with a heavy weight, you risk overstressing your tendons and joints. This can lead to an increased risk of accidents. ㅤ 4. How does a cross trainer or elliptical trainer actually work? The central element of cross and elliptical trainers is the flywheel mass, which is connected to the two vertical handlebars via two horizontal pedal arms. This creates a "crossover" movement of the arms and legs. + Differences in the braking system + Differences in flywheel mass / flywheel + Differences in noise level during operation In the following we will go into some points, which distinguish the functioning of a cross and elliptical trainer: ㅤ 41 differences in the braking system So-called induction brakes (also : eddy current brakes) or magnetic brakes are used. In order to increase the intensity of the workout, the resistance has to be increased somehow. This is done by a flywheel, which is slowed down with the help of the braking system. We will now explain how the two technologies differ from each other. ㅤ Magnetic braking system The magnetic braking system on the cross trainer is regulated mechanically via pulling a permanent magnet towards or away. The closer the magnetic field is to the flywheel, the greater the resistance. However, direct contact with the magnet and centrifugal mass is excluded, so that no wear occurs. These properties mean that the braking process and thus the resistance are very even and the load is well distributed. The desired resistance is controlled by setting the watt values on the training computer. ㅤ Induction brake system The induction brake or eddy current brake is also durable and wear-free, since the magnet and the flywheel do not touch here either. In this variant, the magnetic field is generated by an electric coil via a current flow. Eddy currents are generated, which use electricity to create magnetic fields and thus slow down the flywheel. ㅤ 4.2 Differences in flywheel / flywheel How already mentioned above, the flywheel mass is installed in the rear of a cross trainer and is located behind the user. Therefore, a cross trainer is also referred to as a rear-wheel drive model. With the elliptical trainer, the flywheel is located in the front part of the device, which is why one also speaks of a front-wheel drive model. In the past, the weight of the flywheel, i.e. the flywheel mass, was considered the only quality feature. The heavier the flywheel, the more dynamic the movement. However, it is not correct to look at the weight of the flywheel in isolation. A flywheel mass that is too high can lead to the feeling that you are being "overtaken" by the flywheel mass during training. A flywheel mass that is too low is also counterproductive, since the flywheel mass is not sufficient to reach the so-called reversal point to overcome. The reversal point is the position of the treads at which one tread reaches the highest point and the other tread reaches the lowest point. In this position, the movement is interrupted every time because there is no momentum . Sufficient centrifugal mass ensures that this "dead point" does not occur and that the movement can be continued dynamically and without interruption. The rule of thumb is: ㅤ 4.3 Differences in the noise level during operation The noise development of a Cross trainers and elliptical trainers are about the same as a soft whisper. The neighbors should not feel disturbed by the training. Watching TV or listening to music while exercising is no problem on our devices - especially with headphones! Most disturbing noises can be prevented by regular cleaning and maintenance.The moving parts should be cleaned of dirt and lubricated from time to time. This way there is no friction, which reduces wear and noise in equal measure. One of our floor protection mats, which is placed under the cross trainer, can also be used , find a remedy and significantly dampen the volume. Without a mat, the vibrations that occur during training are transmitted directly to the floor. This could transmit the sound into the neighboring rooms. ㅤ 5. Evaluate and compare cross trainers and elliptical trainers The following criteria can help you choose your new cross trainer or elliptical trainer. We will now go into detail about these important purchase criteria: + step length + pedal distance (Q-factor) + resistance adjustment: computer-controlled vs. manual
A 170 centimeter tall and 65 Kilo-heavy woman burns about 500 calories per hour on the cross trainer at medium load. That's the equivalent of a whole bar of chocolate.
For ambitious endurance training at home there is one A flywheel mass of 15 kg to 25 kg is sufficient to complete a comfortable workout!
+ Training computer & heart rate measurement
+ Training programs
+ Watt-controlled training (yes/no)
+ App compatibility and -Control
ㅤ
5.1 How does the step length affect it?
The step length describes the distance between the end edge of the rear pedal and the front edge of the front pedal pedals It indicates the length of movement that the user goes through with their feet during training. The optimal stride length depends on the user's body size and the individual feel-good stride.
Tall people generally need a cross trainer with a longer stride length than smaller people. If several people of different sizes use a device, you should use the larger person as a guide. The reason is that larger steps are perceived as more comfortable than steps that are too small.
Good to know:
On some models, the user can adjust the stride length of the device individually. This makes training particularly comfortable for every user.
ㅤ
5.2 What does the pedal distance (Q factor) mean?
The foot pedal Spacing is the distance between the treads. Since we naturally have our legs close together when we walk, a small pedal spacing is more ergonomic and easy on the joints. As a rule of thumb, the user should stand hip-width apart on the cross trainer. A pedal distance of 13 cm and more is suitable for rather broad bodies, for narrow people the distance should be less. The average is between 5 cm and 10 cm.
ㅤ
5.3 Resistance adjustment: computer-controlled vs. manual
The resistance is adjusted with the manual setting Set with the help of a rotary knob and regulated by the computer with the computer-controlled resistance adjustment. The advantages of the computer-controlled resistance adjustment are obvious:
+ more precise settings are possible
+ higher resistance can be selected
+ simpler operation
Indeed :
Effective training is of course also possible with a manual resistance setting. However, the computer-controlled variant offers more comfort.
ㅤ
5.4 Training computer & training programs
The integrated on-board computer typically offers various programs for training. However, a training computer should only have the functions that you actually need. If the device has too many features, you quickly lose track and sometimes pay a lot of money for unneeded product features.
You should also make sure that the display is easy to read and the operation should be kept as simple as possible. A backlit display is also recommended.
Very practical:
Some training computers offer the function of storing people, which makes sense if several people use the same device and want to examine their training progress
A high-quality device measures the values during the activities. The display should track at least the following data:
+ distance
+ pulse rate
+ time
+ speed
+ calories burned*
* Calories burned are always estimates only. Some calorie counters add resting consumption here, others are based on a person of average weight.
Almost every cross trainer and elliptical trainer has a different number of training programs. In addition to conventional standard programs (e.g. entry-level program, fat burn, cardiovascular training and strength-endurance), the computers often offer interval programs that include an independent increase in difficulty. These are also called HIIT training (High Intensity Interval Training).
When choosing the right fitness product, you can pay attention to your own interests and requirements before you buy it. Some devices also allow control via app. This makes it possible to download additional training programs and then synchronize them with the fitness device.
5.5 Pulse measurement: Perhaps the most important key figure!
Um To measure the pulse, the fitness device usually uses hand pulse sensors on the handlebars. Alternatively, you can use a separate heart rate chest strap to measure your pulse . The heart rate is measured by contact with the hands on the handle using sensors that measure the athlete's heart rate during training and show it on the display. With this measurement it is important that the handlebars are always gripped with both hands so that the contact area is as large as possible.
If you use a device without integrated heart rate measurement but do not want to do without information about your heart rate, can use a chest strap. Many devices such as smartphones, tablets or fitness trackers offer compatibility with external heart rate monitors.
Did you know? In contrast to a measurement on the wrist or the hand pulse sensors, the measurement with the chest strap is very exact measurement. So if you want to train as precisely as possible, you should get such a chest strap for heart rate measurement.
ㅤ
6. Heart rate measurement: coded and uncoded chest straps
With the coded ANT+ technology, the heart rate sensor can be quickly and easily connected to various fitness equipment in the studios. The heart rate chest strap should be coded to the respective user so that the measurement can be carried out as accurately as possible. Uncoded ANT+ technology is hard to find these days. It is used for simple and wireless data transfer between the sensor and a connected device (e.g. a heart rate monitor).
The heart rate measurement during training helps the user to always stay within the recommended exercise range. This can prevent overloading with unpleasant consequences such as side stitches and shortness of breath. Untrained beginners with certain previous illnesses should also be particularly careful not to overexert themselves.
For optimal fat burning, it is important to aim for a workload of around 65% of the recommended maximum heart rate (which depends on age and state of health). A targeted strengthening of the cardiovascular system, in turn, can be achieved with higher heart rate values. But since you usually can't train for so long, the fat burn effect is less.
Caution:Your optimal heart rate is best determined by a doctor with a so-called stress ECG .This regularly recommended check-up measures, among other things, how your pulse behaves during strenuous activities
ㅤ
7. Watt-controlled training - yes or no?
If a watt meter is integrated into your cross trainer or elliptical trainer, you can control and customize your training particularly precisely. The wattage indicates the power you are currently producing during training and is therefore a measure for precisely determining the intensity. With devices without a wattage function, you must rely on metrics such as revolutions per minute, speed or your heart rate to determine the level of exertion.
Note the following: While the wattage of the corresponds to true "motor performance" - i.e. the entire output of the system of muscles, heart, bones, joints - the heart rate only shows the work of the fuel pump, so to speak.
The function of watt-controlled training only has fitness equipment that has an exact Can display power in watts and allow precise adjustment. Many devices only show levels, which do not allow any statements to be made about the exact performance.
Especially in the intensive training area with a focus on performance improvement, the watt measurement is the best method for training control. The heart rate can vary depending on the form of the day and is therefore not a 100% indicator for determining the training intensity.
In conclusion, one can say for both measurement methods that being too faithful to numbers is not the panacea in training. Rather, you should pay attention to your personal body feeling - especially when you are not feeling well, but the numbers suggest otherwise.
ㅤ
8. App compatibility and control
Some devices can be connected directly to an app to increase the possibilities. Alternatively, external devices and applications can also be used to keep an eye on individual training progress. In this context, we can warmly recommend the Kinomap app, which you can use to explore the big wide world in your own four walls. The app offers a variety of video material from real places in the world and other features, such as challenging friends with the help of the multiplayer mode.
But:
Of course, the cross trainer and elliptical trainer can also be used without a smartphone and the appropriate app.
ㅤ
In addition to the functions already mentioned, there are a number of other factors that you should consider when making your purchase decision. We summarize these for you at a glance below.
ㅤ
9.1 Body weight and height
Most cross and elliptical trainers are designed for one Height of 2 meters designed. The maximum weight varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. The carrying capacity of a cross trainer should of course always be chosen to match your own body weight.
The specification of the maximum weight is also an objective benchmark for the quality of a cross trainer, as this is specified by the TÜV and not by the device manufacturer. The more weight the training device can carry, the higher the quality of the individual parts. This primarily affects the frame, the bottom bracket or the drive system.
ㅤ
9.2 Space requirements and required ceiling height
One can say that cross trainers be a bit more space-saving because they are smaller than elliptical trainers. Very few devices are foldable and therefore a certain amount of space for installation in the home will have to be taken into account.In addition to the cross trainer itself, your height also plays an important role. In order to enable training at home, the device must of course first fit into the room.
Calculation of the ceiling height:
Es gives a rough formula how the ceiling height can be calculated taking into account the height:
height (cm) + pedal distance from the floor (cm) = required ceiling height (cm)
If the If the user is 1.90 meters tall, the appropriate ceiling height should be at least 2.20 meters. Of course, this formula is only a rough guide. Depending on the cross trainer or elliptical trainer, each user stands a little higher or lower on the device.
ㅤ
9.3 Pay attention to high quality!
Sportplus for both very good customer service, as well as for the excellent quality of the devices. The CE mark confirms that our sports equipment meets all basic safety requirements, while the TÜV seal also adds that the fitness equipment has the highest safety standards.
ㅤ
9.4 Are spare parts available ?
All cross trainers have numerous wearing parts. Depending on the number of people training, training frequency and training intensity, wear and tear will occur sooner or later. Unlike other providers, you can reorder all common spare parts from SportPlus. Just contact us and we will find a solution to get your device back in perfect condition.
ㅤ
10. Conclusion on cross trainers and elliptical trainers
Finally, it can be said that cross trainers and elliptical trainers are great training devices for working on your own fitness at home. They are available in numerous different versions. In particular, a distinction can be made between watt-controlled and step-adjustable devices. Some cross and elliptical trainers also have additional, practical functions such as heart rate measurement or calorie consumption.
Are you interested in a SportPlus cross trainer and don't really know which model is best suited to your needs? Feel free to call our friendly and competent colleagues. They are very familiar with all SportPlus cross trainers.
Have you already purchased a SportPlus cross trainer and have problems with assembly or other questions? Whatever your concern, don't hesitate to contact our customer service. We always try very hard to help you competently and as quickly as possible.
ㅤ
Other fitness equipment from SportPlus for your endurance training:
.