Whilst they boast a nearly indistinguishable design, the best cross trainers and exercise bikes are quite different. Therefore, it is important to learn the difference before you decide which one to opt for.

Cross Trainers:

As previously stated, a cross trainer is an exercise equipment designed to offer both upper and lower body workout – focusing on the arms, thighs, buttocks, and legs. These machines are designed to simulate activities such as walking, running, and climbing without causing joint pressure thus, preventing impact injuries.

Exercise Bikes:

An exercise bike on the other end is typically a stationary bicycle. It is designed to mimic the functions of a bicycle without moving. It lets the user pedal and even sit on the saddle just like how they would on an actual moving bicycle.

Is a Cross Trainer or an Exercise Bike Better?

Before you decide which one is better, it is worth examining the advantages and disadvantages of both a cross trainer and exercise bike. Doing so, will give you a better understanding of each equipment so you can make an informed decision. Nevertheless, these machines still hold similarities. For one, they both build endurance and stamina, however, cross trainers cover a broader aspect of the work out compared to exercise bikes.

Cross Trainers Pros:

• Offer both upper and lower body work out
• Improve cardio-respiratory health
• Improves body balance
• Tone the body as they work out up to 80% of the body muscles
• Allow you to pedal backwards for better muscle strengthening

Cross Trainers Cons:

• Can be expensive

Exercise Bikes Pros:

• Perfect for complementing other exercise routines
• Accommodate sitting positions during cycling

Exercise Bikes Cons:

• Only offer lower body work out

Top Tips When Buying The Best Cross Trainers

Unbeknownst to some, the best cross trainers come in different types. For some people, this may be an extra determinant for choosing the best cross trainers for their needs.

1. Belt resistance cross trainers – Belt resistance cross trainers use a belt and flywheel to manage the resistance and different resistance levels.  These are amongst the most common cross trainers. You can even find the best value cross trainers that depend on belt and flywheel operation.
2. Electromagnetic resistance cross trainers – Magnetic cross trainers utilize a varying magnetic field to control the resistance levels. The majority of the best cross trainers are magnetic types.
3. Incline cross trainers – These cross trainers allow you to target certain muscle groups. As the name suggest, these types of cross trainers allow you adjust the incline level so you can simulate several activities such as climbing a hill or hiking a steeper hill. Incline cross trainers are perfect for targeting the upper thighs and core muscles.
4. Variable stride length cross trainer – The majority of the best value cross trainers doesn’t offer this type. Variable stride length cross trainers normally fall under the high end group. These types of cross trainers allow you to set the stride length based on your needs. For example, when you simulate walking, you can set them on shorter strides and during more intensive running simulations, you can set them on longer strides. They make perfect family cross trainers as they accommodate different stride length needs.
5. Ergometer cross trainers – Ergometer cross trainers are specially designed for athletes woo want to pinpoint accuracy. This is because the resistance is measured in wattage. However, this accurate feature comes with a price. Similar to variable stride types, most ergometer cross trainers are expensive and high end.
6. Rear driven cross trainers – Rear driven cross trainers are fitted with a flywheel at the back and deliver a better elliptical motion.
7. Front driven cross trainers – Front driven cross trainers tend to be more stable as their flywheel is mounted at the front. They also deliver a slightly flatter movement. Nevertheless, either mounting, front or rear, work just fine – it depends on what you are comfortable with.
8. Fan elliptical cross trainers – These are among the cheapest cross trainers. They are old school too. They simply feature a fan in a cage. This design is what determines resistance. However, its design limits resistance range. So, these types of cross trainers are quite basic.
9. 2-in-1 design – You can find the best 2 in 1 cross trainers and exercise bikes for the best value. The good part s that you will pay for a good quality 2-in-1 machine the same as you would pay for a belt resistance cross trainer. Plus, they come with the advantage of boasting functions of either equipment.