You’ve decided to upgrade or purchase a brand new elliptical cross trainer but how confident are you that you’re investing in the right one for yourself and your family members? We agree thousand times that an elliptical cross trainer is one of the best fitness equipment options that one could opt for as it provides a full-body workout. And what greater joy than possessing your own machine in your home in UAE since you can exercise at any time of the day without hitting the gym. However, investing in the right elliptical cross trainer is of utmost importance to know whether it matches your workout space, requirements, budget and a lot more.
So, if you reside in UAE, don’t panic, we have got all the tips penned down for you in this complete guide. What to consider in an elliptical cross trainer, what is mandatory and also what not to look at, all these things have been specified here to help you make the right choice.
Related: Best Elliptical Cross Trainer in UAE [2021]
Consider/Decide your Budget
When it comes to setting up a full-fledged home gym or purchasing any piece of home gym equipment, most people face the “budget” issue or consider money as the biggest factor. This is natural and there is nothing wrong with this. Some people find the fitness equipment highly-priced or over-priced. For most people, the actual fear is the fear of spending too much on something that might not be worth it because it may not match their requirements or for some other reason. So you see, it is not always about saving or bargaining. In other words, most people are ready to spend provided they purchase the right one for themselves to fulfil all their workout requirements.
As a matter of fact, elliptical cross trainers vary in price. Like any other piece of fitness equipment, the price depends upon its features, functionalities. As well as the technologies and the condition. Certainly, you will find low-priced/affordable elliptical cross trainers online and in stores, but they may not be up to the mark. Generally, these low-priced ellipticals may not last as long as you want them to. Or, they may wear out soon since they are not sturdy enough as that of the higher quality elliptical cross trainers. To make it easier for you and to eliminate the confusion, this is best what you can do. Firstly, consider your workout requirements and fitness goals. Secondly, take into account your body type.
Well, we are sure you have your answers ready. Now, read this. If you need the elliptical cross trainer for a basic workout or a weekly run only, then a small elliptical with few features is ideal for you. The same thing implies if you have a smaller build. On the other hand, if you intend on using the elliptical cross trainer for your High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Then, you will need an elliptical that is much sturdier so that it can meet your requirements and stand up to your goals without any hassle. The same implies to people with a large build too.
Identify/Take a Look At Your Workout Space
As you have seen, elliptical cross trainers are not small. Of course, every elliptical cross trainer you check out varies in terms of size, but they are definitely not small. Therefore, you need to figure out your workout space, as in an area in your home that is dedicated only to your fitness equipment where you can workout. This is one of the major factors to help you invest in the right elliptical cross trainer. Some ellipticals are huge and sturdier than the other models, while some may be just right for your home. Hence, you see, elliptical cross trainers occupy quite a bit of space in your home which is why identifying your workout space is crucial.
Don’t fret, we are here to help you with this too. Your only job right now is to take a look at your workout space since you need to workout comfortably without any obstacles. Before you make your purchase, you need to figure out if your home will be able to handle/store this masterpiece when you are working out and also when you are done working out. Remember, you need to workout comfortably without worrying about space. You need a dedicated area that is free from clutter. When you’re considering the placement, keep in mind that an elliptical cross trainer is between four and seven feet in length.
Additionally, you also need space for the pedals when you are in motion, so don’t forget to consider space for that too. These can extend a foot or more behind the main frame for some elliptical cross trainers. You should also estimate/calculate to allow about 20 inches of free space on either side of the elliptical machine. Lastly, when it comes to workout space, there is one more thing that is crucial to consider. And that thing is the height of your ceiling. If you are hoping/planning to put the elliptical cross trainer in your basement then considering the ceiling height is a must.
Some of the elliptical cross trainers have a maximum pedal height of a foot or more at the apex. Another reason behind the importance of considering the ceiling height is the higher risk of you hitting your head. This is sure to happen if there is not much headroom in your workout space. Especially, if you are tall.
Must-Have Features to Look For in an Elliptical
Here are some of the must-have features that you need to look for while investing in the right elliptical cross trainer. The elliptical cross trainer that you are planning to purchase should contain at least 4 of these features.
1. Adjustable Resistance
Most of the elliptical cross trainers are equipped with this power-packed essential feature. They offer adjustable resistance of a broad range. As a matter of fact, an elliptical cross trainer with adjustable resistance offers you maximum benefits. Hence, you see, it is the topmost one in the list of must-have features. You can adjust the resistance to suit your preferences. The level you choose should meet your requirements and make you comfortable. As you get used to it, you can adjust the resistance little by little to make it more challenging for you. Because working out on the elliptical at the lowest resistance level is like taking a walk in the park.
And as you increase the resistance level each day or on a weekly basis to a higher level above 50%, 70% and so on, you will start noticing a difference in your body. As you gain strength and endurance, you can carry on further with a better workout by increasing the resistance level. However, you need to find out thoroughly before making your purchase. The ones available online come with adjustable resistance but you need to check their description/features before ordering. To get it confirmed, ensure “adjustable resistance” is mentioned.
2. Adjustable Incline
The next crucial must-have feature is the adjustable incline. The ability to adjust the ramps adds intensity to your workouts. In other words, incline makes your workout more effective and intense. Thus, offering you more weight loss and health benefits. This is because it helps you to get an extra tough cardio workout. Moreover, the incline will target the different leg muscles such as hamstrings, calves and glutes. Take an example of walking on a straight road and walking upwards on a slope. You will burn all the extra calories and fat when you walk on a slope.
Most of the latest elliptical cross trainers offer you the option of adjusting the inclination automatically. On the other hand, some older models do not do it automatically. In such cases, you need to adjust the incline manually.
3. Stride Length
Well, some of the elliptical cross trainers have a stride length of only 11-14 inches. This could be a problem for those who are tall or medium in height. A longer stride length is always better if multiple people will be using the same elliptical. Since each one has a different comfort level. Generally, taller people have longer legs. Therefore, they should opt for a stride length of at least 16 inches. If you have a lot of workout space in your home, then consider purchasing an elliptical cross trainer with a stride length of 20-21 inches. This would be the best for tall people.
However, people who don’t have much workout space should opt for a shorter stride length. Fortunately, some elliptical cross trainers are equipped with an adjustable stride length to meet everyone’s requirements. Consider getting yourself one of these if multiple people will be using the elliptical cross trainer.
4. Smooth Motion
The pedals of the elliptical cross trainer should move quietly and smoothly. Ensure the motion is smooth and doesn’t feel jerky while you workout. Place your feet properly on the pedals in a way that they should fit. Also, none of the pieces should hinder your movement/motion. If you feel that something is not right and you may fall. Then stop, get off the elliptical and adjust yourself again till you feel safe and secure. It is crucial for you to be comfortable throughout your workout and the entire movement.
5. Quiet/Less Noise
If you already have an elliptical cross trainer, you will know how annoying and loud it can be (just in case it is noisy). This can disturb your family members especially when you are working out early morning. Or, at any hour of the day when one or more of your family members are studying, working on their projects and so on. Well, you are lucky as most of the elliptical cross trainers that are available nowadays are quiet or make very little noise. All you need to do is confirm whether the one you are opting for is a quiet one or not.
6. Upper Body Comfort
Besides focussing on your lower body, you need to pay attention to your upper body needs as well as comfort. Opting for an elliptical cross trainer with or without arm handles totally depends upon you and your preferences. Although, arm handles are not a necessity, consider purchasing an elliptical cross trainer with arm handles because they offer more intensity. Also, you need to focus on the handgrip movement and ensure that you are comfortable with it.
Good-to-Have Features
Here are some of the most exciting and interesting features that you should consider looking for in an elliptical cross trainer. Not only will these features make your workout an enjoyable experience but they will also make it more effective. Also, these features will add to your comfort and help you throughout your workout. Therefore, these are bonus features.
One of the most essential and good to have features is the water bottle holder. You can drink water from your bottle whenever you feel like without getting off the elliptical. Stay hydrated throughout your workout. On the other hand, a tablet holder will help you store your tablet or phone in it. You can watch movies on your tablet or listen to some music on your phone to keep yourself entertained and motivated during your workout.
Another good to have and useful feature is the heart rate monitor. As the name says, it monitors your current heart rate, maintains your target heart rate. And will also help you understand the intensity of your workout. Moreover, an interactive version has the capability of adjusting your workout to keep you on the right track. Well, some elliptical cross trainers enable you to create your own customized workouts.
Many elliptical models nowadays also include pre-set programs. These programs provide you with a variety so that you are not bored with the same exercise program everyday. Moreover, these pre-set programs also make it challenging. These pre-set programs give you the freedom to choose the workout program of your choice. Another good to have feature is the fitness tracker app. This app helps the user keep track of the duration (for how long he/she has been exercising), the number of calories burned. Also, the number of revelations made per minute, current heart rate, average speed, and distance covered.
Get the Body That You Want
And now we can see that you are satisfied after going through this guide to investing in the right elliptical cross trainer. We hope you enjoyed reading as much as we enjoyed writing. Hoping you are in a position to bring home the best one for you. Get the body you want. We would advise you to invest in an elliptical cross trainer with more features and functionalities so that you won’t have to upgrade it when you’re requirements increase. Lastly, make the most out of your elliptical cross trainer in the comfort of your own home at any time of the day.
