ExerciseExplorer
A woman using a chest press machine in a bright gym

Categories / Gym machines & classes

Elliptical Cross-Trainer

Gliding low-impact cardio.

Typical session30 min × 3/wk
Effort●●○○○ Gentle
CostModerate cost
EquipmentSome equipment
WhereGym, At home
SocialSolo
ImpactLow impact
AgesTeens, Adults 18-49, 50-69, 70+
CommitmentVery easy to stick with

How to start

Step on with a handrail, set a low resistance and move for 10 minutes, standing tall.

How to progress

Add time, resistance and arm work.

What the evidence says

Evidence: limited

We found no trials of this particular activity. It is a low-impact aerobic machine. The WHO recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity a week for adults, and 60 minutes a day for children.

Take care: Keep your posture upright and do not lean on the handles.

Sources

12-week starter plan

Build time on the machine.

0 of 12 weeks done

Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.

Add reminders to your calendar

Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.

Calories and weekly minutes

Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 5 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.

0calories per session
0calories per week
0minutes per week
0% of the 150-minute weekly guideline

Tips and common mistakes

Tips

  • Stand tall.
  • Use the handles lightly.
  • Vary resistance.

Common mistakes

  • Leaning on the handles.
  • Going too fast.
  • Hunching.

Kit and cost

Low Approximate UK prices.

  • Gym access
  • Supportive shoes
  • A towel

Frequently asked questions

Is it low impact?

Yes, your feet stay on the pedals.

Is it good for knees?

It is gentler than running.

How long?

20 to 40 minutes.

Good for: Heart & fitness Weight loss Joint-friendly

Compare with similar options

Elliptical Cross-TrainerStationary BikeRowing MachineStair Machine
Typical session30 min × 3/wk30 min × 3/wk30 min × 3/wk20 min × 2/wk
Effort●●○○○●●○○○●●●○○●●●○○
CostModerate costLow costModerate costModerate cost
EquipmentSome equipmentSome equipmentSome equipmentSome equipment
ImpactLow impactLow impactLow impactLow impact
Fitness neededAny levelAny levelAny levelSome fitness
Evidencelimitedlimitedlimitedlimited