Which cross-trainer elliptical type thing should I buy?

[MrsKypp]

Hello!

I'd be really grateful for some advice about which machine to buy.

We would like something that exercises legs, core and upper body as well as the heart and lungs. Maybe like a cross-trainer?

Current fitness levels not great; lack of sufficient physical activity especially since March 2020, so we won't need pushing to elite levels. I used to dance, do combat fit, Pilates, but mostly nothing over the past year. Husband walks a lot, but no other exercise.

Three DC have their own sports routines and will not be using the new machine, so just 2 people.

Budget of around £2,000 but less would be nice. One machine due to space.

thanks in advance for any tips! :-)

Just bumping this, I'd also like to buy a cross-trainer. Thanks.

Is there a reason you can't save yourself £2k and go running instead? Far cheaper, and better all round exercise than the cross trainer.
If there is a reason you can't go outside though, and need a machine, I'd go for an exercise bike. Generally, you can work harder on a bike than you can on a cross trainer, and really get your heart rate going over even a short session. If you try and really go for it on a cross trainer, IME you just end up getting pulled along by the motion of the machine and not actually doing any work..

For a full body workout think about looking at a rowing machine. But it really comes down to what you will enjoy using and keep using consistently.

I use a spin bike at home with the Peloton app - they also have lots of other types of exercise on the app too so I still get an upper body workout.

For an all over body workout a rowing machine is the best.
For that budget you could get a C2 or a waterrower

I would consider trying machines at a gym before committing. I personally would opt for a gym membership so you can alternate between rowing, cross trainer etc. I get bored using the same machine, so just having one at home could mean it ends up being unused in a couple of months.

My husband works ridiculous long hours (not having an affair, just he is a farmer), and I don't have childcare for gym or even running. I do get out and go for walks with kids, and occasional bike rides with them too. When I'm not working I have kids with me. I do gardening and occasional YouTube workouts too. I just fancied a bit of shiny kit to get on. I thought I could put the music or podcast on. I want an all body workout (not just legs), so that rules out bike. I also don't t want a rowing machine, as I sometimes have a bad back, and worry it might exacerbate it.

If I could fit it in here, I’d get the 3in1 NordicTrak one!

Genuinely you would be better off investing in some free weights. Those machines are expensive and bulky and if it's not something that you know you'll love I really wouldn't bother. Maybe start following a program which gives you home workout options with minimal equipment. I honestly think that is money and time much better spent.

Oooh that Nordic Trak looks the business. I will put it on my wishlist. Space isn't a problem, just the small issue of cost.

Skala123 - I know you talk sense. Will try free weights first, water the magic money tree, and look again in a few years.

I wouldn't bother buying any gym equipment if you're new to fitness. You'll most likely get bored, especially if it's only one piece of equipment.

If you're really keen to buy a large piece of equipment, try them out at a gym first before committing. Cross trainers aren't cheap. They also take up a lot of space too.

I think a good starting point for you would to be to get walking, and over time you could develop that into a run.

Also, Youtube has so many videos geared towards beginners. Try The Body Project.

Get a free day pass for a gym, as a one off, and try the different machines out.