The elliptical trainer was first introduced in the market place in 1995 and is highly recognized as a major development since that time. Reebok was the first to introduce the cross trainer with its moving arms which allows the trainee to develop an upper and lower body workout routine.

Cross trainers are known for:

• Excellent exercises which are easy on the knees, joints and hips

• Low maintenance and maintaining low overhead costs

• Their small size when compared to treadmills

The machines themselves vary in both style and design. A high cross trainer can cost well over a thousand dollars although not everyone can spend this kind of money on a cross trainer. Basic cross trainers cost much less and many of the machines which are sold today include both high quality and construction which is built to last a lifetime.

It only stands to reason that the more expensive the cross trainer is the more elaborate its features and style will be. An important consideration when you decide to purchase a cross trainer is the area where you will house your unit. You will certainly want to select an area that will provide the necessary space for it to reside and enable you to properly use it at any time. You should avoid a situation where the cross trainer does not fit within the space that you have selected.

Some samples presented on the internet display all sorts of optional equipment which is generally sold as accessories. Usually these machines are motorized and will rightfully deliver the needs power to operate it effectively.

Be sure to check on the warranty which comes with the machine. Most units have a one year warranty but are sure to locate a well known brand with an on-site warranty. Often times the manufactures will warrant certain parts for 15 years while others are guaranteed for only two years.

What are the programs and how do l benefit?

It is very difficult to exercise with your routines when you are both the trainee and the trainer. For this reason alone the idea of purchasing a cross trainer with a guide may be the proper course of action to take. These guides will have a pre-set or customizable program to increase your motivation towards using your exercise equipment on a daily basis.

Some of the more expensive machines now provide a controlled heart beat program to monitor your heart rate. By following the included instructions you can decrease or increase your heart rate by modifying the resistance of the cross trainer. This simple act makes your heart beat close to the pre- programmed rate. This method represents a safe way to exercise and keep your body in shape while enjoying the benefits of increased weight loses.