Crosstrainer Machine

A great piece of gym equipment for those that require a gentle workout, or who suffer from lower leg injuries.

If you go into any modern gym nowadays, you will often see rows upon rows of these machines, all for the same reason - gym goers love them.

Because you're working both your arms and legs, the calorie expenditure for these machines is claimed to be similar to that of running and rowing, however this is simply not the case.

Cross trainers are designed to keep the regular gym goer, at the gym, with the under standing that they are actually having a good workout.

This is partly true, because they are actually working out, with very little stress placed on their muscles / joints, which will result in no or very little muscle soreness, however for greater benefits in a shorter time, exercises such as running - rowing - cycling should be considered for those who are physically capable.

When using the machine, it is important that you do the following.

• Warm - up and stretch your muscles, especially your lower leg - calf muscles.



• Place your feet centrally on the foot pedals.



• Avoid excessive rotational movement from your waist in order to push the hand levers forward.



• Aim for larger controlled movements, rather than a small jerking action, using your arms to help control the speed, and also assist the legs during your workout.



• Set the resistance level to the correct setting - too easy insufficient workout - too hard and you will be straining - aim to look forward, standing tall throughout.



• Travel in a forward motion - the way our bodies are designed to travel, excessive speed travelling backwards carries the risk of hamstring muscle injuries.



• Have a towel and water bottle close by.

One of the biggest problems with X-Trainers, is that new users will often find that they will develop sore calf muscles. This is simply due to having the heel off the foot plate for an extended amount of time, you should aim to place your heel down on the foot plate when ever you can, in order to stretch the calf muscles.

Always wipe any sweat off the machine to help prolong the life of it, taking in fluid regularly to help your body function throughout your workout.

Focus on stretching the calf muscles once you have finished using the Cross - Trainer, and all your muscles after your workout.