Discover the gym's best kept secret

If you're looking for an all-over body workout that targets your arms, legs and torso at the same time whilst having low-to-no impact on your joints, we have the answer. Read on to discover how you could shape up and reach your fitness goal quicker by adding a cross trainer to your gym routine.

Kinder on your joints

Using a cross trainer provides similar body benefits to jogging but with less stress on your joints and muscles - especially your knees which is a common problem area. That's because there's no pounding involved as your feet never leave the pedals, plus you're using more muscles at once so spreading the load. In fact, cross training actually helps strengthen your bone and muscle density so you'll be better equipped for everyday movement.

Boost your burn

Depending on your body weight and the intensity of the workout, you can burn more calories with a cross trainer than on a treadmill or exercise bike - some studies suggest as much as 800 an hour. It's a great source of aerobic exercise as its perfect for interval training, plus the machine's heart rate monitor lets you ensure you're working out in the right zone for your goal.

Get a full body workout

If you choose a cross trainer with dual action handle bars, you can actually get a true whole body workout. Simply pump the handles back and forth and you'll be toning your chest, arms, shoulders and back. Plus, if you let go of the handles you'll work your mid-section harder to keep you balanced, toning your torso too.

Pump up those pins!

The cross trainer uses all of the muscles of the lower leg making it the perfect exercise to strengthen and shape up your legs. The foot pedals also let you pedal backwards which is a great way to also target your glutes.

You're in control

Another great thing about the cross trainer is that you're in control throughout. You can move at a comfortable speed then add in the occasional high intensity burst to give you a low impact interval workout. From start to finish your speed, workout type, and intensity is in your hands...and feet.

It's safe to use

The amount of resistance on a cross trainer will determine how much effort it takes for you to keep your feet moving. The speed is determined by your own movement. So if you want to stop at any point, simply stop. When you stop moving, the machine stops moving. Simples!

So make sure you add this awesome piece of equipment to you gym routine. Not sure how to use the cross trainer? We've created some handy video guides for how to use gym kit here.