Elliptical / Cross Trainer: how to do it and muscles worked
The elliptical / cross trainer mainly works your cardio. You need an elliptical.
Muscles worked
Main
How to do the elliptical / cross trainer
- 1
Step onto the pedals, hold the handles, and stand tall. Start at a low resistance and ease into a smooth, gliding motion for a 5-minute warm-up.
- 2
Push and pull the handles in rhythm with your legs, keeping your steps smooth. Increase the resistance or incline until you are working steadily but can still talk.
- 3
Keep your posture upright, core braced, and feet flat on the pedals. Breathe steadily and cool down with a few minutes of slow motion.
Form tip: Do not lean on the handles or slump forward. Try pedalling backward for a change if your knees feel fine.
Common questions
- Which muscles does the elliptical / cross trainer work?
- The elliptical / cross trainer mainly works your cardio.
- What equipment do I need for the elliptical / cross trainer?
- You need an elliptical.
- How many sets and reps should I do?
- A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
- How do I track the elliptical / cross trainer in SweatByte?
- Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the distance and the time. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.
More cardio exercises
General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.