Best Elliptical Cross Trainer Australia 2024

Last Updated on 31/01/2024 by Fit Shape Team

Elliptical cross trainers are often upgraded by their manufacturers every year to provide a product that is most beneficial to consumers. We want to give you only the best in the industry, and for this year, we will be listing the best elliptical cross trainer Australia needs to know more about.

Top 3 Elliptical Trainers in Australia for Home Use

Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack 9.9 Elliptical

Best Mid-Range Elliptical: Schwinn Compact 510E Elliptical Cross Trainer

Best Foldable Elliptical: Horizon Andes 3 Elliptical

NordicTrack is a go-to brand for many fitness buffs because of the company’s high-quality treadmills, elliptical trainers, and exercise bikes. The brand has been in the business since the ‘70s and keeps getting stronger due to its well-designed exercise equipment lines and accessories.

Their 9.9 Elliptical sits on top of this year’s elliptical list because of the model’s excellent front-drive system with a magnetic resistance system and reliable frame build.

The NordicTrack 9.9 delivers when it comes to quality thanks to its 20 per cent incline feature which is capable of working out lots of upper and lower body muscle groups compared to your typical elliptical cross trainers.

If you are not that fond of noise and want to focus completely on your workouts, this model operates using magnetic resistance. If you’re housed with family or mates, working out late at night won’t be a bother.

Effortless performance is also provided due to the inclusion of a first-rate, 11 kg flywheel weight. The quality of the flywheel also allows hassle-free transitions between resistance levels – this makes the unit a dependable HIIT partner.

One of the best elliptical cross trainers Australians need to be familiar with is this top-notch NordicTrack piece. You will be able to vary your routines efficiently because it comes with preset workouts that target muscle-toning and caloric-burning.

The iFit programs allow users to perfectly streamline workouts that cater to a specific fitness goal. Whether you want to lose weight, tone your muscles, improve cardiovascular health, or simply maintain your recent weight and build, you can do so using this NordicTrack elliptical model.

Other than making you busy, the model also features a smart touchscreen that measures 7 inches. The touchscreen has all the performance data you need. It comes with Bluetooth capabilities so you can further enjoy your exercises and get loads of motivation by accompanying your workouts with your choice tunes.

It’s also equipped with several conveniences that make it a practical choice for all intense workout enthusiasts. There’s a water bottle holder to keep you hydrated, a fan to cool you down, sizable pedals, an adjustable incline, adjustable resistance training and transport wheels at the front.

This is the best elliptical trainer I have tried so far because of how modernly innovative and comfortable to use. My favourite workout programs are those from the iFit library as the cross trainer auto inclines and declines.  The resistance level also auto-adjusts itself following the training.

Overall

The NordicTrack 9.9 Elliptical is suitable for all fitness levels and it also comes at a price that won’t be too heavy on your wallet being a smart power incline elliptical trainer. This cross trainer machine is a great addition to your home gym and also includes a reasonable warranty.

Like all fitness equipment, you do have to give it the maintenance it needs so it will last for hundreds of workouts. We all agree that the 9.9 elliptical should rank high on this list since it has all the features that fitness buffs will appreciate.

Read the full review of the experience our reviewer had when she had the NordicTrack 9.9 Elliptical delivered and assembled at her home in Melbourne.

Read Full Review

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If you are after an elliptical cross trainer that will fit your small flat, the Schwinn Compact 510E Elliptical is one you need to consider. The elliptical has a length of 109 cm and it’s 40 per cent smaller than your standard elliptical cross trainer.

However, do not be fooled by its small dimensions since it includes essential features that fitness enthusiasts require from a hard-working elliptical.

For starters, the 510E elliptical is built with a long stride length and it’s ergonomically designed to facilitate a more-natural striding movement and stride length that is friendlier on the joints. The elliptical cross trainer machine has a 46 cm step length while the distance between the pedals’ inner sides measures approximately 12 cm for more comfortable walking movements.

You may look at this Schwinn compact elliptical cross trainer, evaluate its size and think it might lack a nice selection of workout programs. Fortunately, this one offers a decent number of exercises for its users; the 13 training programs allow users to diversify their routines.

Furthermore, it comes with 16 resistance levels which are sufficient enough to satisfy the needs of both beginners and seasoned elliptical users.

The unit will deliver a helpful variety of workout programs that will benefit users who want to tone up, boost cardio performance, and shed pounds. Training programs in the elliptical include interval training, heart rate program, and challenging training. Users can also combine training apps with elliptical workouts.

The quality of Schwinn devices also figures prominently on the 510E elliptical. Its pedals, crafted with coated, corrugated rubber layers, guarantee a secure grip during workouts. This means you’ll have a firm hold on the handles even in your sweatiest routines. Stability is also ensured because of its height-adjustable feet.

The elliptical features hand pulse sensors which display the heart rate, therefore users are provided better control with their workouts. You can keep track of your progress and create more feasible, beneficial routines with this feature around.

Workouts will make you sweat, and if you are into rigorous routines like interval training, water should be by your side at all times. The elliptical includes a drinking bottle holder so you can refresh and hydrate during workouts.

If you do not want your workouts to get boring or don’t want to miss your favourite TV show, the elliptical also includes a built-in media holder where you can place your phone or tablet.

Lastly, moving this unit is easier than ever since the back part of the elliptical can be lifted. Exercise in any convenient area in your home because this one is a breeze to transport. It also makes storing the elliptical a simpler chore.

Overall

If you are looking for an efficient elliptical that will not take up too much room in your small abode, the Schwinn Compact 510E. This small cross trainer is your choice among the top cross trainers in Australia. All the functions are present and work decently, plus it is also easy to move around due to its design and size. While it may be larger than a compact indoor exercise bike, a plus point is that you get to work on your upper body workout too with an elliptical cross trainer.

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Another elliptical model that’s made its way to our best elliptical cross trainer Australia list is the Horizon Andes 3 Elliptical. The longer stride makes working out with this elliptical model easy on the joints. The stride measures 20 inches and allows for a walk that is effortless and fluid. You won’t even realise that your legs are exerting effort to burn excess calories.

For better movements, the elliptical is also built with a 6-star frame that combines all six essential features to run efficiently. All motions made on the elliptical are fluid and have a more natural feel.

The footplates provided are anti-slip for safer workouts. These plates accommodate most foot sizes and minimise that awkward, ‘numb’ feel that the feet go through when exercising. The plates are also designed to work in sync with the handlebars for a guaranteed full-body workout.

Another advantage of the Andes 3 is its 2-way crank bearings which allow reverse striding. Reverse striding is great for elliptical routines since it allows users to target only the core or certain muscle groups.

Meanwhile, its preset programs are 10 in total and include manual, interval training, weight loss, reverse training, THR zone, customised, games, rolling, constant watts, and random.

All workouts provided by the program modify the resistance automatically for convenience. The magnetic resistance levels are 16 all in all. Choose the intensity you need to accompany your routine without getting in the way of your workouts.

Gym equipment is often heavy and hard to move from one spot to another. It’s a good thing that lots of brands now offer ellipticals designed for home use.

The Andes 3 in particular is a cinch to transport since it comes with built-in transport wheels. This cardio machine can be folded as well thanks to the two-step Feather Light Folding Mechanism.

Overall

The Horizon Andes 3 Elliptical will make workouts enjoyable and beneficial due to the decent number of resistance levels and programs. You can vary your workouts and even create your own. The design of this elliptical exercise machine makes for routines that are natural and effortless.

It’s made to make your workouts comfortable and safe as if you are not using any equipment at all while striding. A nice one to take if you are after intense workouts that place less impact on your joints while providing both lower and upper body exercises.

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How Were These Ellipticals Short-listed?

So, how did we come up with the winners in our best elliptical cross trainer Australia list? To get the best ones from the elliptical bunch, we have to consider several factors. It’s not all about current high-tech features or loads of bells and whistles for us.

While some work and prove convenient and beneficial, advanced technology can be a hit or miss. That is why several newer units are upgraded the following year – to correct parts or features that did not work with our hard-working, fitness-loving locals.

To bring you the best elliptical cross trainer Australia can experience, we also need to assess the brand/retailers’ customer service and customer purchasing experience besides assessing the elliptical units.

• We conduct tests on all ellipticals available in the country so local fitness buffs are served with a variety of options, not only the more advanced ones.
• Moving on, we consider the price of the unit. Ellipticals often come at different price points depending on the model and the brand. Next, we tackle the preset programs on the unit ourselves and perform a variety of workouts on it.
• We typically spend several weeks to months testing those products out, approximately a half-hour several times a week. Manual exercises are crucial so we come up with our own routines to evaluate what the elliptical model delivers.
• Next, we consider the level of maintenance that the unit requires. From time to time, some models require a lube job. Issues like malfunctioning resistance levels and screechy components can be dealt with by contacting the company. The best elliptical models often come with excellent warranties.
• The return policy should be scrutinised as well.

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Guide to Buying an Elliptical Cross Trainer

Everything you need to know about picking the right elliptical cross trainer for you is here, and then some. Remember to consider your fitness goals before purchasing an elliptical.

1. Elliptical Stability

The stability of exercise equipment should always be assessed. For successful workouts, you have to focus on your routine completely. The elliptical is your accessory, thus you should be on top of the unit, literally and figuratively. You may have to spend more if you want an elliptical that has good stability.

2. Resistance

A good number of resistance levels means more convenience, leeway, and diversity in workouts. There are two types of elliptical resistance – the fan wheel and the magnetic. The former offers an effortless stride while the latter delivers more natural movement and less noise.

3. Incline

Incline adjustment is another important factor that you have to check among quality ellipticals. User-friendly power incline controls are the most convenient and popular compared to manual ones. Quality ellipticals also include capabilities to modify positions for more challenging routines.

4. Stride Length

Not all elliptical units feature similar stride lengths. Choose one that will accommodate your height. If your entire family wants to use the elliptical, then select a model that serves most heights. The best ones come with a 20-inch stride length.

5. Preset Workout Programs

Ellipticals that include a computer offer pre-programmed workouts. These exercise programs often include interval training, cardio, weight loss, and the like. Excellent elliptical models also provide an extensive data range from stride speed, distance, heart rate, and session time so you can keep track of your performance.

6. Adjustable Foot Pedals

Some elliptical models are made with adjustable, pivoting foot pedals so users can replicate a more natural striding motion. Adjustable foot pedals will not only make working out on an elliptical effortless and comfortable, but they will also make those workouts safer. A bigger pedal surface is also an advantage so a variety of foot sizes are accommodated well.

7. Flywheel

The flywheel is responsible for producing a natural, seamless momentum that prevents elliptical workouts from turning into a jolting, shaky, and awkward experience. Quality elliptical units include dual-direction flywheels for smoother, fluid workouts.

8. Other Considerations

Other features might pique your interest if you are searching for a good elliptical model. Rehydrating is crucial during workouts so some models are built with a water bottle holder. For convenient, more comfortable exercises, fans are also made available by some models. Some ellipticals include smartphone and tablet holders for more enjoyable workouts while some are equipped with a handy USB port for data transfer and charging.

9. Read Reviews

Now, if you want to gather more information about a specific elliptical model, you should do your research online. Other than word of mouth, there are elliptical reviews that you can peruse if you want to know the quality of a specific unit. Reading full reviews is also a good way to check a product’s specifications and help narrow down the best elliptical machines in the market.

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Facts About Elliptical Cross Trainers You May Want to Know

The best elliptical cross trainer Australia can provide has been discussed, and if you want more dirt about the equipment, here are some essentials that you may be interested to know more about.

• Elliptical machines deliver low-impact total body workouts since it works out the arms, back, legs, abs, and glutes. Lots of elliptical units include a computer wherein you can keep track of your progress – crucial workout data from programs down to distance covered and session times are often shown there.
• Home elliptical cross trainers are just as good as the ones used in gyms. Since they are made for home use, most models come with features that make it a breeze to move around and store at home.
• Elliptical configurations come in 3 common types and they are the following:
  • Front Drive – Ellipticals with this configuration feature a drivetrain that is cased in a large housing. It comes with pedals supported by wheels that slide on a track.
  • Center Drive – Center drive ellipticals feature a drive wheel in the middle of the equipment. It comes with pedals positioned on tube-shaped rollers and includes a crankshaft.
  • Rear Drive – Rear drive cross trainer models come with a drive wheel positioned at the back of the equipment. This drive wheel is usually housed in a small casing. Its pedals are either hung on lengthy pedal arms between the drive wheel and handgrips or as a part of a track plus roller design.
• The number of calories that you can burn on the fitness equipment will depend on your weight, the duration, and the intensity of the workout, plus other factors. A piece by Harvard explains that a half-hour of workout on the elliptical can burn 324 calories on average for individuals weighing 70 kg.

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FAQs

1. Is it okay to use an elliptical every day?

You can use an elliptical trainer every day. This workout method is an excellent way to get your cardio and improve your health, lose weight, or tone up your body. Then again, you do have to vary your exercises to prevent your muscles from going through a plateau phase. This will have a drastic effect on your fitness goal particularly if you want to lose weight. However, quality ellipticals include preset programs so you can try out various training methods.

2. Are ellipticals and cross trainers the same?

Elliptical machines and cross trainers are practically similar since cross trainers are also elliptical trainers. The only feature that makes them different is that a standard cross trainer has moveable arms while a majority of elliptical units feature stationary or fixed bars.

3. Are elliptical machines bad for the back?

An elliptical machine may not be suitable fitness equipment for you if you suffer from back pain caused by osteoporosis or insufficient bone density. If you want to make sure that the elliptical is right for you, consult your healthcare provider first.

4. Does an elliptical machine work out the arms?

Elliptical machines benefit the arms particularly if the unit comes with moveable handles. Make sure to flex, bend, straighten, and turn your arms to engage them fully during the workout. Alternating between high and low resistance is also ideal.

5. Is reverse striding efficient?

Elliptical users utilise their legs to move the pedals which result in muscle gain. By reverse striding, you can vary your workouts further and engage a nice number of muscle groups. Thus, reverse striding is efficient and beneficial.

6. Does an elliptical machine help with belly fat?

You can lose belly fat with regular elliptical use. Bear in mind that you also need to consider the intensity of your workout, vary them, train longer for a time, and consider your weight, gender, and other factors to rid your stomach of unwanted fat. A healthy diet along with exercise is crucial in losing visceral fat.