
Categories / Gym machines & classes
Featured in: Low-impact exercise, Best exercise for weight loss
Elliptical Cross-Trainer
Gliding low-impact cardio.
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.
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.
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-Trainer | Stationary Bike | Rowing Machine | Stair Machine | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 30 min × 3/wk | 30 min × 3/wk | 30 min × 3/wk | 20 min × 2/wk |
| Effort | ●●○○○ | ●●○○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ |
| Cost | Moderate cost | Low cost | Moderate cost | Moderate cost |
| Equipment | Some equipment | Some equipment | Some equipment | Some equipment |
| Impact | Low impact | Low impact | Low impact | Low impact |
| Fitness needed | Any level | Any level | Any level | Some fitness |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |