What is a cross trainer?

Think of a cross trainer as your all-in-one cardio companion. Designed to mimic the natural motion of walking, jogging, and stair climbing, it delivers a low-impact workout that’s gentler on your joints than other machines.With foot pedals and moving handles working in sync, ellipticals engage both your upper and lower body in one seamless stride, helping you tone arms, sculpt legs, and elevate your heart rate in a single session.Compact, quiet, and built with features that keep you motivated, they’re perfect for at-home workouts. Whether you’re easing into a new fitness routine or pushing yourself to the limit, cross trainer machines offer a smooth way to break a sweat (without breaking your stride)

What are the benefits of using an elliptical?

Low impact, high reward! If you’ve ever wanted a workout that’s kind to your body but still delivers results, or struggled to squeeze movement into a busy day, an elliptical trainer could be just what your routine needs.Here’s why it’s earned a place in so many home gyms:Gentle on knees, hips, and anklesImproves heart healthBurns calories and fatDelivers a full-body workoutPerfect for indoor use, rain or shineSupports stress relief and boosts mood

Are ellipticals good for losing weight?

If weight loss is your goal, an elliptical is a great place to start. You can dial up the resistance, pick up the pace, or go that extra mile to really feel the burn – all without leaving the comfort of your home. Whether you prefer steady-state workouts or heart-pumping HIIT, these cardio powerhouses match your momentum, so you can get the most out of every sweat session.Mixing up your cross trainer workouts not only keeps your routine interesting but also activates new muscle groups, helping build endurance, boost strength, and improve overall results. Pair that with a balanced diet, and you’re well on your way to hitting your goals!

What’s better, a cross trainer or a treadmill?

Cardio can look a little different for everyone! From gentle movement to high-energy workouts, the right machine can help you stay consistent and feel good while doing it. Here’s how these two home gym staples stack up:Cross Trainers – The low-impact hero of your home gym. Elliptical machines mimic walking or climbing stairs, minus the pounding on your knees and ankles. Quiet and compact, they’re perfect for early risers, apartment dwellers, or anyone after a full-body burn.Treadmills – Whether you’re squeezing in a brisk walk or chasing a runner’s high, treadmills help you stay on track with your fitness goals. With adjustable speed and incline settings, they’re a go-to for cardio lovers looking for movement that fits around everyday life.

How long should you exercise on a cross trainer for?

Cross trainers make it easy to stay active, no matter your fitness level or routine. So, how long should you spend on one? This is how the Australian Government's physical activity guidelines translate to time on an elliptical:Children and Young People (5-17 years) – 60 minutes daily. Mix it up with bursts of moderate to vigorous movement that get the whole body moving without putting too much pressure on growing joints.Adults (18-64 years) – 30 to 60 minutes most days. That could mean a steady stride at moderate resistance or shorter, high-intensity intervals to get your heart racing.Adults (65+ years) – 30 minutes most days. A gentle, low-resistance session is perfect for keeping joints happy and supporting strength, balance, and daily mobility.The best kind of workout is one you’ll keep coming back to, and Harvey Norman’s range of the best elliptical cross trainers makes it easy to move your way, every day!