If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what the best recumbent cross trainer for low impact workouts, then we recommend the Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer as the best one.
Recumbent cross trainers are a safe and effective way to get in good cardio and leg strengthening exercises.
Now, you don’t have to visit a rehab clinic to make use of one since you can bring it into your home.
Knowing what to choose is tough, so we researched dozens to find the best recumbent cross trainer available today.
Before looking at our top five picks, check out our buyer’s guide to learn more about these machines.
Here are the top recumbent cross trainers we’ll be reviewing:
- Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4936
- HCI Fitness PhysioStep LXT Recumbent Cross Trainer
- Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4708
- Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer
- Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer
Recumbent Cross Trainers – What you Should Know
Since you’re searching for the best recumbent cross trainer, we’re assuming you know a little bit about them.
If not, that’s still fine.
We’ll explore more about this machine, how it can benefit your health, and what factors you should keep in mind when shopping for one.
What is a Recumbent Cross Trainer?
To put it simply, a recumbent cross trainer is basically a combination machine.
It blends qualities of a recumbent bike with an elliptical trainer to create a versatile piece of fitness equipment.
The seat is the same as a recumbent bike, offering a more comfortable experience.
Recumbent cross trainers stand out when you look at the large, elliptical-like handles that move back and forth rather than the standard stationary handlebars found on exercise bikes.
Benefits of Using a Recumbent Cross Trainer
One of the best things about this fitness equipment is its versatility.
Unlike a bike that may only target the lower body and an elliptical that focuses more on the upper body, a recumbent cross trainer tackles them both.
It offers you a complete, full-body workout while you remain in one spot.
Furthermore with the versatility, many quality recumbent cross trainers are ideal for people regardless of fitness level.
Several feature various workout programs that you can utilize so someone who doesn’t exercise as much can get just as good of a workout compared to someone who frequents the gym.
As for the specific health benefits you’ll see from a recumbent cross trainer, they don’t put nearly as much stress on the body compared to a normal exercise bike or a treadmill.
As a low-impact machine, it reduces tension on the joints, making a safer and easier workout experience.
Features to Look For
Before you check out our top five picks for the best recumbent cross trainer, there are some important features to look at that may help you narrow down your choice.
Comfort
Since this is a low-impact machine, it helps if it’s actually comfortable to use.
How does the seat look and feel? Does it have a higher or lower back?
Some users may appreciate one over the other based on preference or if you need more support for back issues.
The padding in the seat is another concern.
For prolonged workouts, you don’t want to experience fatigue in the wrong areas due to a stiff, uncomfortable seat.
Having some sort of cushioning, or the ability to add cushioning is always a nice feature.
It may also be beneficial to have some type of cushioning in the grips on the handlebars. This can allow you to hold on better and longer for extended exercise routines.
Consider some machines that have a more ergonomic design too as that can help with the comfort level.
Also, the frame itself plays into how comfortable it is. A step-through layout allows you to get on and off the machine with no difficulties.
Adjustability
The more adjustable options, the more you can tailor the recumbent cross trainer to suit your personal needs.
For the seat, it should have an option to adjust the height so it can fit users of various sizes.
Additionally, quality machines usually feature adjustable feet pedals as well to further accommodate different people.
Consider the resistance levels too.
Exactly how many levels you can adapt depends on the machine, but eight levels seem to be common.
Varied resistance levels are ideal for users at different fitness levels so you can start as easy or as intense as you’d like.
Performance and Durability
As you’re shopping for a recumbent cross trainer, another good point to look at is how it performs.
The magnetic system should offer a smooth experience even at the more intense resistance levels.
Also, consider the stride the machine has.
It should be linear and just as smooth as the magnetic system since a good stride will help stabilize your lower body better, easing up any stress on your hips and back.
A quality performance is further found in how safe the machine is to use.
The feet pads should be leveled and textured as these features do a greater job at providing a non-slip platform so you remain secure at all times.
Consider the area provided on the pedals too. You should be given enough room to rest comfortably, which also adds to how safe the machine is for you to use.
The cross trainer should also hold up to frequent use. A reliable steel frame is best in this situation.
However well-built a machine is, it’s still important that you adhere to the included weight limit.
Progress Monitoring
Modern fitness machines offer a simple way for you to keep track of your progress, and these recumbent cross trainers are no different.
A straightforward way to monitor your training is with a good display.
Some are backlit while others aren’t, but regardless, it should be easy to read.
They generally offer the same information such as time, speed, distance, and calories.
Alongside that, some recumbent cross trainers have pulse grips. This way, you can also readily measure your heart rate while you exercise.
Warranty
No matter how well designed a recumbent cross trainer is, it helps if it comes with a good warranty in place.
Things happen no matter how robust a fitness machine is or how well you use it.
Whenever something does occur, it can give you peace of mind to know that the problem can be resolved.
Typically, these machines have a short labor warranty period that’s around one year or so.
Parts and the frame are covered longer with some offering beyond five years or up to a lifetime of support.
Best Recumbent Cross Trainer – Top 5 Reviewed
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4936
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4936 Cross Trainer Magnetic Recumbent Bike offers an easy cardio workout.
It’s user-friendly thanks to the step-through design as well as the oversized, wide seat that features lumbar support.
With a simple move of the lever, you can adapt the height of the seat forward and backward to suit your size.
It moves enough to fit leg inseam measurements from 24in. to 32in. This offers a good range so various users can take advantage of the machine.
For the weight capacity, it accommodates up to 265lbs.
Additional features include eight adjustable magnetic resistance levels, self-leveling pedals to secure your feet, side handlebars and upper body handlebars, and transportation wheels for easy storage.
Your monitor is easily tracked via the digital monitor. You can also measure your heart rate with the pulse sensors.
Pros
- Easy to adjust
- Great back support
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Handles can move faster than expected
- Pedaling might squeak
- No mention of a warranty
HCI Fitness PhysioStep LXT Recumbent Cross Trainer
The PhysioStep LXT Recumbent Cross Trainer is designed with a linear stepping motion, making it even more low-impact and safer for users of various ages with different health complications.
Also, it has a built-in transition platform so that it’s easier to put your feet on and take them off the pedals.
This quality recumbent cross trainer gives you room to better adapt a workout based on personal preference and needs.
It features ortho handles, and this design allows you to change the angle of the handle so you can activate specific muscle groups.
The cross trainer also aims to make working out a seamless, comfortable experience.
For one thing, it has a 360° swivel seat that has built-in memory foam along with contoured back support.
The display is color-coded for better reading, and you can adjust it to sit at different angles.
Pros
- Compact for easy storage
- 20 workout programs and 32 resistant levels
- Quality linear stepping motion
Cons
- Might take a while to put together
- Its appearance looks a bit outdated
- Might be too compact for some users
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4708
This Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4708 that features a reliable build with a high 350lb weight capacity.
It’s constructed user-friendly thanks to the easy seat adjustment setting and the transportation wheels allow you to move it around as needed.
For comfort, there is extra padding that targets relief to pressure points so you can exercise longer without feeling fatigued.
To increase the difficulty, the machine has eight different resistant levels to stimulate your muscles in various ways. This adjustment is done fast so you can get to exercising right away.
Keeping track is simple thanks to the straightforward digital monitor. You can also take hold of the pulse grips to measure your heart rate.
Pros
- Simplistic controls are easy to use
- Seat adjusts through a wide height range
- Simple to adjust the seat
Cons
- Assembly can take some time
- Arms sit a bit high
- Backrest sits a touch far back
Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer easily removes stress from your joints and back while still helping you burn a good deal of calories.
It has a naturally reclining seat that’s properly cushioned and adjusts to better suit your height. This way, the machine is always set up in a way that won’t harm your posture.
One dial allows you to adjust the magnetic resistance, going from low to higher intensities so you can adapt your fitness routine as needed.
So that you are always aware of your progress, you can monitor everything on the battery-powered console. This sets up anywhere in your home.
The unit takes up a small footprint so that it fits well in your home, and thanks to its whisper-quiet operation, it is good for use in an apartment setting.
For convenience, this has a built-in tablet holder and water bottle holder.
Pros
- Unit is designed sturdy
- Easy to customize arm handles and seat
- Smooth performance
Cons
- No gradual change in resistance levels
- Console may benefit from a backlight
- Some users might find it difficult to get on and off
Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer
The Teeter Freestep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer is our top choice for the best recumbent cross trainer on the market today.
It features premium, oversized pedals that provide you with more than enough room to suit users of various sizes.
The pedals are cushioned while also grip-like to blend comfort with security.
Even the seat is upgraded with more cushioning and support, and it’s designed with two mounting points so that you can position it in a way that feels best.
As for the handlebars, they have a rubberized coating so that you can grip it easier. This surface is also sweat-resistant.
It’s easy to adjust the magnetic resistance, and thanks to the quality magnetic resistance system, using the machine is virtually silent.
Pros
- 2-year full warranty
- Grip and cushioned textures on the pedals
- Sweat-resistant handlebars
Cons
- Could benefit from more adjustment options
- Change in resistance could be more seamless
- Quite a bit of assembly needed
> > Check out our full review of the Teeter Freestep Lt3 here < <
Final Thoughts
A recumbent cross trainer is a great tool to use at home to get in a cardio workout without any stress on your joints, so any of our top picks should prove beneficial to your fitness routine.
To choose just one, we have to go with the Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer as the best recumbent cross trainer.
It focuses largely on comfort and security thanks to the cushioned seat, padded handlebars, and the grip texture on the pedals.
Although it has a reliable build, it comes with one of the best warranties that lasts a good amount of time. Feel free to read more about it or the other choices in our list.
