Tested picks: Best cross trainers and ellipticals for low‑impact home workouts in the UK

Ellipticals and cross trainers offer low‑impact cardio and a near full‑body workout while placing less strain on the joints than a treadmill. Designs vary widely — some machines use static poles, others moving handles — and differences in stride length, handle shape and footplate position change which muscles are worked.

Space and weight are important: most machines are bulkier than compact treadmills, so you’ll need room to store and use one. Many models include Bluetooth and app connectivity, transport wheels and varying levels of electronically adjustable resistance. The reviewer tested eight machines in boutiques and customer experience centres, using decibel readings, app trials and built‑in displays to judge noise, build quality, features and ease of use.

Best overall: BowFlex Max Trainer M6 (£1,149.99). A compact hybrid that blends an elliptical and stair‑step motion for a hard lower‑body workout. It pairs with the Jrny app and offers 16 resistance levels, but has a relatively short stride and limited upper‑body range of motion. Best value: Horizon EX‑59 (£699.99).

Solid build and a 46cm stride make it feel more like a gym elliptical. It connects to third‑party apps and the free @Zone classes, but resistance changes can be slow and the console and speakers are basic. Best premium/foldable: Technogym Elliptical (£3,940). A compact, quiet machine with up to 25 difficulty levels and high electric resistance that folds upright for storage.

Key Topics

Sports, United States, Health, Cross‑trainer, Elliptical, Home Gym, Fitness Equipment