Step length
The maximum horizontal distance between the pedals of the cross trainer, determines, respectively, the length of the athlete's step when working on the machine. It is believed that for people of average height, a step length of 400 – 500 mm is optimal, and many cross trainers are made with this calculation. At the same time, there are models with a variable step length, which allows you to adjust it to the personal preferences of different users.
Anyway, the step length should be chosen depending on height, physique and personal preferences. Too small a step will lead to the fact that you have to mince, and the imitation of walking will turn into marking time, and too wide will lead to inconvenience and an unjustified increase in load without increasing efficiency. Ideally, it is advisable to test the cross trainer before buying — how comfortable you will be on it. This applies to both fixed and adjustable step lengths.
Training programs
The number of
training programs provided for in the design of the cross trainer. Different programs have different purposes — strengthening the cardiovascular system, maintaining physical fitness, burning fat, etc. At the same time, the operation of the program relieves you of the need to manually set the parameters — this is done by the machine. Accordingly, the more training programs the cross trainer has, the wider its capabilities and the more convenient the training. And some models may even provide the possibility of custom programs.
Power source
The type of power source used in the cross trainer.
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Mains. Cross trainers are powered by a standard 230 V power supply. Such power allows you not to worry about replacing or recharging dead batteries — the machine will work as long as there is electricity in the house. In addition, it is suitable for machines with any load system, even electromagnetic (for more details, see "Load system"), while such models are much cheaper than similar generator ones (see below). The main disadvantages in this case are the dependence on the outlet and the need to use a power cord, which can limit mobility and get in the way. However, in most cases, these shortcomings do not cause significant inconvenience.
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Battery. The cross trainers are powered by batteries. The main advantage is the autonomy of the machine — it can be installed anywhere without worrying about the presence of sockets and laying the power cord. On the other hand, the battery power is very limited, and they are only suitable for cross trainers with mechanical or magnetic load systems (see "Load System" for more details), where only the computer needs power. In addition, the battery life is not infinite, and they need to be changed or recharged periodically.
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Built-in generator. The cross trainers are powered by a built-in generator, which is driven by the rotation of the flywheel
.... In other words, when using such a model, the user himself generates the energy required for work. To turn on the generator simulator, it is enough to turn the flywheel several times. This type of power supply combines the advantages of the two above. On the one hand, it is autonomous, on the other hand, it has sufficient power even to provide energy to electromagnetic load systems (for more details, see "Load system"). And you won’t have to change anything, unlike batteries, because the service life of the generator is comparable to the service life of the machine itself. At the same time, this feature significantly increases the weight, and most importantly, the cost of the cross trainer, and therefore is found only in premium-class models.Dimensions
The dimensions of the equipment in the assembled and ready-to-work state. It is important to note that more space is needed for the comfortable and proper operation of the machine.
