If you are looking for an exercise machine that is able to provide you with an efficient cardiovascular workout, then an elliptical trainer or a cross trainer would be one of your best options. First introduced back in the 1990s, a cross trainer is a stationary exercise machine which looks like a cross between a stationary bicycle and a treadmill and is used by standing and pumping on the pedals, stimulating walking, jogging or running.

Most cross trainer models have adjustable pedals which can be changed to get the stride length desired by the user. There are also many models that come with magnetized pedals, eliminating the need for the flywheel, which is the part where the pedals are attached in the older or less expensive models. Other features that some cross trainers have would include movable or stationary hand rests, a heart rate monitor, a digital screen where the stride difficulty and tension could be chosen and even small television sets or built in music players that an individual could use while working out. If you are thinking of using a cross trainer for your workout routines, here are some of its advantages that you might want to know.

The primary benefit of working out on an elliptical exercise machine or a cross trainer is that it does not put too much pressure on your joints as you work out. This means that you are able to engage in a similar type of workout as brisk walking, jogging or running without the painful wear and tear on the joints.

Depending on your chosen intensity, you could burn even more calories that you would in the same time on an exercise bike or a treadmill. The typical amount of calories you can burn or a cross trainer would be at least 8 to 12 calories per minute.

A cross trainer also allows you to move at a speed that you are comfortable with while still allowing you to work out at higher intensities.

Through choosing a cross trainer that features dual-action handle bars, you would also have the opportunity to engage in a cross-training workout which exercises your whole body.

Lastly, it is safe and easy to use. Even individuals who have knee problems or are overweight could use this machine.