Cross Trainer vs. Elliptical: What's the Difference?

Key Takeaways

• Cross trainers get your whole body in on the action, while ellipticals focus more on your legs. More movement, more burn!
• Tight on space? Ellipticals take up less room, so they are a solid pick for smaller setups.
• Cross trainers bring the heat with more intensity options, while ellipticals keep things smooth and steady.
• If your joints aren’t a fan of high-impact workouts, ellipticals are the gentler way to go.
• SOLE ellipticals give you the best of both worlds—full-body movement with smooth, joint-friendly motion. It's like getting two machines in one!

Cross Trainer vs Elliptical: Key Differences

What are Cross Trainers?

Cross trainers take your typical elliptical workout up a notch by bringing your upper body into the mix. With movable arm handles, you’re not just working your legs—you’re also engaging your arms, shoulders, and core. It’s a full-body burn that makes every session more efficient, giving you more results in less time.

Defining Elliptical Machines

Ellipticals keep things smooth and joint-friendly while still delivering a killer cardio session. They mimic walking, running, or climbing stairs—without the impact that wrecks your knees. Whether you're recovering from an injury or just want a workout that's easy on your joints, an elliptical has your back.

Major Physical Differences

• Arm Handles: Cross trainers come with moving handles, so your arms get in on the action. Ellipticals? Mostly stationary handles, meaning your legs do the heavy lifting.
• Foot Pedals: Both machines have foot pedals, but cross trainers let you move in a more dynamic way, engaging more muscles.
• Size & Design: Ellipticals are usually more compact, while cross trainers take up a bit more space due to their extra moving parts.

Performance and Functionality

Cross trainers bring the versatility game strong! You can tweak the intensity and resistance to match your fitness level, making them perfect for beginners easing in or pros looking for a challenge. 

Meanwhile, ellipticals keep things simple. Hop on, get moving, and enjoy a smooth, steady workout that’s all about building endurance and boosting heart health.

Tired of workouts that feel like a one-size-fits-all challenge? Your fitness journey is uniquely yours, and our SOLE ellipticals get that. Check out our collections here!

Benefits of Cross Trainers

• Easy on the Joints: Feels smooth and natural—no pounding on your knees like running.
• Total-Body Burn: Arms, legs, core—everything works together for a killer session.
• Cardio Booster: Gets your heart pumping and endurance up.
• Serious Calorie Torching: Great for staying in shape and shedding weight.
• Injury-Friendly: A solid option if you're recovering or just want to be kind to your joints.
• Custom Workouts: Play with resistance and intensity to keep things fresh.

Advantages of Elliptical Machines

• Full-Body Movement: Works upper and lower body muscles without extra strain.
• Cardio & Endurance Gains: A great way to strengthen your heart and stamina.
• Customizable Workouts: Adjust resistance and incline to match your fitness level.
• Fat-Burning Machine: Helps with weight loss and metabolism.
• Core Strength & Balance: Keeps your stability in check.
• Reverse Stride Perks: Pedal backward to target different muscle groups.
• Quiet & Smooth Ride: No loud noise—perfect for home workouts.
• Space-Saving Options: Some models fold up when you're done.
• Built-in Workouts: Keeps you motivated with guided training sessions.

Design Specifics and Use Cases

Size and Space Requirements

Ellipticals are compact and easy to fit into small spaces, making them great for apartments. Cross trainers, with their moving arm handles, take up more room but offer a full-body workout—worth it if space isn’t a concern.

Operational Ease and User Experience

Ellipticals are simple and beginner-friendly, offering an easy, no-fuss workout. 

Ellipticals are user-friendly with smooth, low-impact movement, ideal for beginners or those seeking a simple, effective workout. Cross trainers, while slightly more complex due to the moving arm handles, add upper-body engagement for a more dynamic session, perfect if you want extra intensity.

Best Situations for Use of Each Machine

If you want low-impact cardio that’s easy on the joints, go for an elliptical. Need a full-body burn that hits multiple muscle groups? A cross trainer is your best bet!

Upgrade Your Fitness with SOLE!

Still unsure which machine fits your fitness goals? It all comes down to what matters most—getting a full-body workout, saving space, or keeping things easy on your joints.

Want the best of both without the hassle? Our SOLE ellipticals combine the muscle engagement of cross trainers with the compact, joint-friendly design of traditional ellipticals. With both movable and fixed handles, quiet operation, and a rock-solid frame, they’re built to last.

Check out our collection today—your home gym is about to level up!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are cross trainers better for weight loss?

Cross trainers can give you an edge when it comes to weight loss since they work both your upper and lower body, helping you burn more calories in less time. If you add in some interval training, you’ll crank up your metabolism even more. But at the end of the day, the best machine is the one you’ll actually use consistently!

Can I build muscle using an elliptical?

Ellipticals won’t turn you into a bodybuilder, but they do a solid job of toning and strengthening your legs and glutes. Cranking up the resistance and incline adds an extra challenge, helping with muscle endurance. If serious muscle growth is your goal, though, you’ll want to mix in some strength training.

Which of the machines is easier to use for beginners?

Ellipticals are the easier pick for beginners since they have a simple, natural movement and a lower learning curve. Cross trainers offer more variety but might take a little practice to get comfortable with the arm movements.

What’s the maintenance like for each machine?

Both require minimal upkeep—just wipe them down after use, check for loose parts, and lubricate moving components occasionally. Stick to the manufacturer’s maintenance tips, and your machine will stay in top shape for years.

What makes SOLE Ellipticals stand out from other machines on the market?

SOLE ellipticals are built differently! Our machines combine the best features of cross trainers and ellipticals—you get both movable and fixed handle options, super quiet operation, and adjustable incline settings. On top of that, our ellipticals come with our heavy-duty steel frame and special pedal design that's easier on your ankles and knees. They're actually designed with input from physiotherapists to give you an effective workout that won't stress your joints!