Crosstrainer is a relatively new type of exercise machine and, in recent years, has taken the country’s gym by storm. Many individuals have decided to invest in a cross-trainer to have at home instead of the old exercise bike. This is, of course, related to the fact that a cross-trainer activates the whole body and thus is incredibly effective for both cardio and calorie burning.
In this cross-trainer test, we take a closer look at the best cross-trainers on the market right now, and we cover a wide price range so that everyone, regardless of budget, can get started and exercise. In the assessment, we take, e.g., starting from official, independent tests and various consumer reviews. At the end of the article, we have a small guide with a couple of good tips on choosing the perfect cross trainer, adapted to your needs, and will discuss why cross trainers are so good for cardio and weight loss.
SOLE E35 cross-trainer
SOLE E35 belongs to the relatively expensive half of cross-trainers for home use. But it is still a model that belongs to the gym’s quality machines and at a particularly competitive price. This model is better than the gym’s average cross-trainers in many ways that it offers a lot of possibilities for adjustments and settings. For example, the ramp angle can be set so that different parts of the leg muscles are trained optimally.
SOLE E35 offers lots of extra features
If you are serious about your training and the goal is calorie consumption, cardio, or weight loss, the small extra investment cost with SOLE E3 can pay off. In addition to many resistance levels, training programs, and general standard functions, you get both heart rate measurements via the handles and possibly via the included heart rate belt. There are also built-in fans for the hard workouts and speakers so you can connect your mobile phone, MP3 player, or similar and get a good stereo sound that helps keep the pace up.
The pedals are designed in collaboration with physiotherapists, which results in a small two-degree angle, which reduces the load on the ankles and knees. The pedals are also equipped with wheels and grooves that make them glide quite silently. However, its extra weight provides increased stability and is hardly a major disadvantage in practice.
Masterfit TP500 crosstrainer
If you are looking for a cheap cross-trainer, the Masterfit TP500 is a good alternative to a model where you get really good value for money. It is one of the cheapest models on the market recommended as a training tool and is characterized by solid construction. It also has a good stride length of 40 centimeters, which is normally only available on the more expensive models. Masterfit TP500 is delivered in a nice white finish, with black handles and nice details.
Despite the low price, you get a wide range of features, and the model also excels with a rotating wheel that weighs 17 kilos, something that is significantly much better than on many more expensive models. Masterfit TP500 is also ideal for the whole family, as the computer can store user data for up to four different people.
Good handles and practical transport wheels
Masterfit TP500 weighs 51 kilos, which testifies to fairly solid and stable construction. The model also has integrated transport wheels, so it is easy to move around if space is limited. Good and long handles are suitable for both short and long runners, and the fixed handles are of good length.
These handles are also equipped with heart rate monitors, and when you hold them, the computer can show your heart rate continuously and measure your current condition. The intuitive control panel shows all previous data such as time, distance, calorie consumption, intensity, and more. The resistance can be adjusted to 16 different levels, and also, the computer offers 12 fixed training programs. There is also a special heart rate training program and opportunities to program a unique training program.
Kettler CTR 3 crosstrainer
When Germany’s largest test magazine Stiftung Warentest tested 10 popular cross-trainers, the Kettler CTR 3 was named test winner. This model has also won in other competitions, for example, at Fit For Fun. One of the many parameters that help the model win in various tests is its handle, which does not contain any significant amounts of harmful substances compared to other models. This is an important factor because, during training, you sweat from your hands while holding the handles.
Of course, Stiftung Warentest also examined many other parameters, e.g., safety and technical build quality, which of course, received excellent marks. Kettler CTR 3 is a German quality product, something that is reflected in both the sturdy construction and in reliability in general. At 79 kilos, this cross-trainer is the second heaviest in our review, something that should not be considered a disadvantage. Good build quality usually results in a certain weight, and the weight helps to improve stability, so you can feel safe when you exercise.
Neutral design with many adjustment options
In addition to being a quality cross trainer, it also has a wide range of setting options. For example, you can adjust the distance of the footplates so that the machine works optimally, regardless of whether you are short or tall. The design is pleasantly neutral and classic and thus fits into most homes.
The training resistance of the Kettler CTR 3 is achieved through electronically controlled magnets, and you can freely choose between as many as 76 different resistance levels. Of course, the machine also has several fixed programs you can choose from (a total of eight), with i.a. a complete heart rate program. By gripping the fixed handles (under the screen), you can measure your heart rate directly via your hands, and it also comes with a heart rate monitor for the ear. Also, compatible wireless heart rate belts can be connected.
In addition to being a quality cross trainer, it also has a wide range of setting options. For example, you can adjust the footplates’ distance so that the machine works optimally, regardless of whether you are short or tall. The design is pleasantly neutral and classic and thus fits into most homes.
The training resistance of the Kettler CTR 3 is achieved through electronically controlled magnets, and you can freely choose between as many as 76 different resistance levels. Of course, the machine also has several fixed programs you can choose from (a total of eight), with i.a. a complete heart rate program. By gripping the fixed handles (under the screen), you can measure your heart rate directly via your hands, and it also comes with a heart rate monitor for the ear. Also, compatible wireless heart rate belts can also be connected.
Reebok ZR8 cross-trainer
Reebok is one of the largest and most popular fitness equipment manufacturers, and with the ZR8 model, the company has also produced a good cross-trainer.
The Reebok ZR8 consists of white color with black details, and with its weight of 50 kg, stability is ensured. Therefore, the model is not so heavy that it can not be moved around; a move is facilitated, not least thanks to the integrated wheels at the front. Further back, there is the possibility to adjust the height so that the cross trainer can stand firmly even on slightly more uneven ground. The foot pedals are mounted with a non-slip coating and can also be adjusted to three different positions depending on your height and preferences.
Good computer with many functions
Even though the Reebok ZR8 is not one of the most expensive models, it still has a high-quality computer that offers both backlighting on display and the buttons themselves. Therefore, the training can continue to work well even during the evening hours without any special lighting. The magnetic braking system is equipped with 32 resistance levels, and in addition, you get 12 preset training programs for everyone’s enjoyment.
There is also a heart rate controlled exercise program. The computer on the Reebok ZR8 does not support a wireless connection to an external heart rate monitor, but the handle has a built-in heart rate monitor that works well. The computer also allows you to create your unique training program, and you get regular updates on speed, time, calorie consumption, and many other standard parameters.
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