Buy a cross trainer – gentle on joints & effective
Cross trainers – also called elliptical trainers – train legs, core, and arms simultaneously. This makes them one of the most efficient and joint-friendly exercise bikes for the home.
A cross trainer runs quietly enough for the apartment via belt drive. Anyone looking for a stepper training device will find the climbing step motion in a semi-professional design in the Smart Stair Pro E50.
At AsVIVA, you'll find a wide selection: from compact beginner models to premium trainers with motorized magnetic resistance, workout programs, and app connectivity. For general fitness cardio, an exercise bike is often sufficient; for an even more natural motion feel, elliptical trainers are recommended.
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Types & differences
Front wheel drive (elliptical trainer)
Advantages: long, flat stride length – running-like feel; very smooth motion. Ideal for taller individuals.
Please note: requires a bit more footprint.
Rear wheel drive (classic cross trainer)
Advantages: compact, smooth motion pattern, great choice for beginners.
Please note: stride length can be shorter on budget devices.
2-in-1 & stepper hybrids
Very space-saving, strong focus on legs/glutes; ideal for small spaces and short, intense sessions.
Training & Effectiveness
The combined use of the upper and lower body allows for high calorie burn at moderate intensity – with low impact stress. To make progress, 3–5 sessions per week of 20–40 minutes each are sufficient.
Tips
- Alternate between interval and endurance sessions
- Upright posture, engaged core, relaxed grip on handles
- Train with watt or HR zones (model dependent)
Buying guide
Stride length & ergonomics
Guide: up to ~175 cm body height: 38–45 cm, above: 48–55 cm. Large, non-slip foot plates increase comfort & safety.
Resistance system
- Manual (permanent magnet): mains-independent, robust, easy operation.
- Motorized: precise levels & programs, app profiles; requires power.
Smooth motion & stability
Smooth motion results from frame rigidity, bearings, gear ratio, and the braking system. A high flywheel mass can help, but it isn't the only deciding factor.
Programs & connectivity
Interval, target/time/distance programs, as well as watt- or HR-controlled. Depending on the model, app connectivity (e.g., Kinomap, Zwift) for motivation & tracking.
Comparison of our bestsellers
AsVIVA C28 – motorized, up to 120 kg
- Resistance: motorized (permanent magnet)
- Stride length: 39 cm
- Programs/Wattage: 16 programs, 10–350 W
- Flywheel mass: 16 kg
- App: Bluetooth, Kinomap, Zwift
- Dimensions: 133,2×54,6×163,5 cm
AsVIVA C29 – motorized, up to 120 kg
Advanced development with an expanded variety of programs and a sturdy frame – for ambitious training.
Variant: C29 Bluetooth
AsVIVA E4 (Elliptical trainer) – 24 levels, up to 130 kg
Front-wheel drive with a long, run-like stride length and extremely smooth motion – an excellent choice if you are specifically looking for an elliptical trainer.
AsVIVA C16 (2-in-1) – manual, 8 levels, up to 110 kg
Compact hybrid for small spaces; power-independent, quickly ready for use.
Color variant: C16 red
AsVIVA E50 Smart Stair Pro – Cross trainer with 26 kg flywheel mass & electric incline
- Flywheel mass: 26 kg · magnetic brake with permanent magnet
- Resistance: 32 computer-controlled levels · 21-level electric incline adjustment
- Console: large TFT touch display · 32 workout programs (watt, heart rate, interval, and manual modes)
- Connected training with Kinomap via Bluetooth
Suitable for beginners?
The cross trainer is attractive for beginners for one reason: it offers a running-like motion without any impact because the foot never leaves the pedal. Anyone who wants to run but has knee problems will find the perfect alternative here.
Getting started begins with our cross trainer (335 €, 33,5 kg, 8 resistance levels). Pay attention to the stride length: 33 cm fits up to about 1,70 m body height; above that, the motion becomes choppy. The Smart Stair Pro E50 offers 53 cm.
The eight-week plan is available for free as a PDF. To learn how cross trainers and ergometers differ, read Cross trainer or ergometer?
Suitable for weight loss?
Yes – and better than most cardio equipment because the arms, shoulders, and core are actively involved. For the same duration and perceived exertion, calorie burn is higher than riding a bike while seated. Consistency remains key, however: three sessions per week over eight weeks have a greater effect than two intense weeks.
How much space is needed – and how high must the ceiling be?
The footprint is manageable with a length of 109 to 172 cm. The main question is the height: our cross trainers stand 162 to 179 cm high, plus a pedal height of usually 15 to 25 cm. Someone who is 1,80 m tall should plan for a ceiling height of around 2,20 m.
None of our cross trainers are foldable – the device needs a permanent spot. In rooms with sloped ceilings, an ergometer is the safer choice.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Are cross trainers really gentle on the joints?
Yes. Your feet remain on the footplates, eliminating impact loads like those from jogging – ideal for beginners too.
Manual or motorized resistance?
Motorized: finer levels, programs, app profiles (requires power). Manual: simple, robust, power-independent.
What flywheel weight makes sense?
Smooth concentric motion is crucial. Flywheel mass helps, but the overall package (frame, bearings, gear ratio, brake system) is more important.
Which stride length is right for me?
Guideline: up to ~175 cm body height 38–45 cm, above that 48–55 cm.
Do I need a chest strap?
For precise HR training, yes. Hand pulse sensors provide rough values; a chest strap (model-dependent) controls programs more precisely.
How loud is a cross trainer in a living space?
Magnetic/induction systems run quietly. A floor protection mat and stable setup reduce noise even further.
Can you build muscle with a cross trainer?
The cross trainer primarily strengthens the legs, glutes, and – via the movable handles – also arms, shoulders, and back. However, visible muscle building in terms of mass requires strength training with appropriate resistance. The cross trainer tones, improves endurance, and maintains muscle, but does not replace targeted strength training.
Cross trainer or treadmill – which is better?
Both are effective cardio workouts. The treadmill is closer to everyday movement (walking to running) and usually burns slightly more calories for the same effort. The cross trainer is significantly gentler on the joints because the feet remain on the foot plates, and it engages the upper body. Read more in our guide Cross trainer vs. treadmill: Which is better?
What are the disadvantages of a cross trainer?
The movement follows a fixed path and is therefore less natural than running. The device requires a larger footprint than an exercise bike, for example, and is not the right choice for running- or cycling-specific training. For joint-friendly full-body endurance training, however, it remains one of the best options.
Which cross trainer is suitable for home use?
For home use, three things matter most: a sufficient flywheel mass for smooth concentric motion, a stride length tailored to your height, and quiet operation for living spaces. Check the footprint and ceiling height in advance – on the machine, you stand roughly 20 cm higher than on the floor.
Free workout plan: Cross trainer workout plan (PDF) – 8 weeks building, no registration required. All plans
