Due to the intensity and explosive muscle action of the exercises in a Cross Training workout, there are many benefits for the average exercise enthusiast; however, the intensity of the exercises which deliver the benefits could also increase the risk of injury if not done correctly. Before beginning a Cross Training program, work with a personal trainer and/or a fitness professional and learn how to perform the movements required for the workout.  An individual should first develop necessary joint mobility (especially at the ankles, hips and shoulders) as well as joint stability (particularly in the core region) to learn how to effectively perform hip hinge, squat, pushing, pulling and rotating movements.   The explosive and plyometric exercises in a Cross Training workout require rapid lengthening and shortening of muscles so if a participant does not take the time to develop the necessary flexibility and movement skills first, the joints might not allow a full range-of-motion which could affect muscle tissue and cause an injury.

The many benefits of Cross Training are due to the intensity of the exercises. High intensity, power-based exercises are effective for burning a high number of calories in a short period of time while simultaneously improving aerobic fitness and promoting the anabolic hormones such as testosterone, HGH and IGF-1 which are responsible for muscular growth and can actually have an anti-aging effect.  Cross Training is an excellent workout program and is a great way for the experienced exercise enthusiast to add much-needed intensity and diversity to his or her program; however, it is not a recommended program for people just starting to exercise or returning after a long hiatus. It is highly recommended to work with a skilled professional and develop the necessary mobility, stability and movement skills before progressing to a challenging Cross Training WOD. Please visit the 360FitnessSuperStore and ask one of their fitness professionals about Cross Training & WOD equipment and their proper use and they will be more than happy to spend time showing you exactly what you need to get your body looking and feeling great!

Life Fitness and Octane Fitness produce several lines of home-use, light-commercial and gym-quality elliptical trainers.  While neither Life Fitness nor Octane Fitness elliptical trainers could be called budget-friendly, both brands produce durable, high-quality exercise machines.

 Muscles Worked

Life Fitness and Octane Fitness ellipticals offer a full-body toning workout as you work toward your cardio goals. The Octane Fitness models, however, go a step further for upper-body training. In addition to the conventional swing arms featured in Life Fitness and Octane Fitness models, the Octane Fitness machines offer optional Powerbands that attach to multiple anchor points on the elliptical, letting you use your elliptical trainer for more conventional strength training exercises, too.

 Types

Life Fitness offers a line of high-quality standing elliptical trainers, as does Octane Fitness. Yet, once again, Octane Fitness goes a step further by offering seated or recumbent elliptical trainers for home and gym use. A seated elliptical trainer is ideal for those with severe balance problems who cannot remain upright on a standard elliptical trainer, or those who need back support.

 Weight Limits

Life Fitness elliptical trainers can support a maximum user weight of 350 to 400 lbs., depending on which base model you select.

All Octane Fitness ellipticals intended for home use, and a few of the gym models, have a 300-lb. user weight limit. The rest of the gym models have a 400-lb. maximum weight limit.

 Features

Life Fitness and Octane Fitness elliptical trainers offer a full range of features that are typical on high-end elliptical trainers, including push-button electronic adjustments, digital readouts that display information like distance traveled and calories burned, in-console fans, electronically adjusted stride lengths, heart rate monitoring and pre-programmed fitness routines.

 Cost

As of July 2011, Life Fitness and Octane Fitness elliptical trainers retail for from $2,000 to more than $4,000, depending on base model, console and features. Both of these products can be purchased at the guaranteed lowest price from 360FitnessSuperStore and if you order before 1pm, they will deliver to your home on the same day!

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