Best Recumbent Cross Trainers

First and foremost, recumbent cross trainers also known as recumbent elliptical cross trainers, recumbent cross trainer for seniors, recumbent cross trainer and elliptical allow you to sit down as you work out.

Now, not every elliptical machine requires you to stand up during a workout. Recumbent cross trainers allow you to sit during the workout. Incidentally, the difference between recumbent cross trainers and recumbent exercise bikes is the pedaling motion, which is longer and has a lower impact on joints. Meanwhile, recumbent cross trainer and elliptical, along with recumbent cross trainer for seniors and others also features a handle on each side of the machine that you can move forward and back like a cross-trainer. In addition, all these recumbent cross trainers provide plenty of comfort and adjustment options, making them the perfect piece of equipment for those who might have limited mobility.

Table of Contents

Best Recumbent Cross Trainer Reviews

Our Picks

Teeter FreeStep: Recumbent elliptical cross trainer

Body Champ Trio Trainer: Elliptical trainer, upright bike, recumbent bike, seated road bike, sprint road bike

Body Rider Trio Trainer: Elliptical trainer, upright bike, recumbent bike

ProForm Hybrid Trainer: Elliptical trainer, recumbent bike

Recumbent Cross Trainer Reviews

1. Teeter FreeStep

The Teeter FreeStep is also referred to  Teeter Recumbent, Teeter Recumbent Cross Trainer, or Freestep Recumbent.

Recumbent cross trainers

The Teeter FreeStep is a seated recumbent elliptical cross trainer. Also, its dual power motion gives you a full body workout using both leg and arm muscles to burn more calories. Furthermore, the FreeStep recumbent can be used to separately exercise your legs, arms, biceps, triceps, chest or back. For example, you can modify the workout by using only your legs with a stepping motion that mimics a leg press, strengthening your glutes, quads and hamstrings. Or, you can target your upper body by re‑positioning the handles to isolate biceps or triceps while engaging chest and back muscles for added intensity and definition. Incidentally this machine can also be used as a recumbent cross trainer for seniors.

Dimensions: 54 inches long, 53 inches high, back base is 29 inches wide, and front handles are 38 inches apart.

Display: The battery powered, easy-to-read digital console is attached to the frame of the recumbent elliptical cross trainer. Furthermore, the console has a stand for your mobile phone or tablet. Meanwhile, the console displays time, distance, speed, and calories burned.

Handlebars: The length of the adjustable arms can be locked using auto-locking knobs.

Other Features:
  • Transport wheels to move the recumbent elliptical.
  • Water bottle  holder.

Pedals: The Teeter FreeStep recumbent elliptical cross trainer uses a licensed, patented, whisper-quiet, durable, friction-free magnetic linkage system for driving the pedals.

Resistance: Use a simple dial to adjust the 13 levels of smooth near-silent variable friction-free magnetic resistance to get the desired workout intensity.

Seat: The Teeter Recumbent’s three naturally reclined comfortable seated positions reduces body fatigue. Also, these seat positions eliminate stress on joints and back while delivering a total body fat-burning cardio workout. In addition, the height of the seat can be adjusted using a spring-loaded adjustment knob. Finally, the seat has three reclining positions.

Stride: The patented stride technology is used to create a natural striding motion that follows a smooth, linear path to eliminates stress on knees, joints, and back. So, it is gentle on the ankles, knees, hips, and back. Consequently, you get a zero-impact full or lower body fat-burning cardio workout without joint pain. Furthermore, these recumbent cross trainer and elliptical help those with arthritis, Parkinson’s, or MS to stay active.

Visualize Use: Click to see a video of the Teeter FreeStep in use.

Warranty: 1-year.

Weight of User (Maximum): 300 pounds.

What Buyers Liked:

89% of buyers liked – Doesn’t bother arthritic knees – Easily accessible resistance dial – Excellent assembly instructions – Parts labeled – Easier to assemble with two – Well built – Robust, super quiet – Works just like when it was new, even after 2 years – Robust, stable, smooth motion - Whole-body workout, because you have to tighten your core muscles while you move your arms and legs – Great customer service - Easy on feet, knees, hips, back and still gives good workout as well as movement – Motion about the same as a rehab elliptical – Gives excellent cardio, gets your pulse up pretty quickly – Assembled in place to avoid moving after completed assembly.

PROS

You can separately or in combination exercise your legs, arms, biceps, triceps, chest, back, upper body, and lower body.

2. Body Champ Trio Trainer

This machine is also referred to as Body Champ 3-in-1, Trio Trainer, Trio Trainer Plus Two, 3-in-1 Exercise Machine, and BRT7989.

Recumbent cross trainers

The BRT7989 Body Champ Trio Trainer can function as an elliptical trainer, an upright stationary bike, a recumbent bike, a seated road bike, and a sprint road bike. Moreover, you can effortlessly transition between all these five modes without unmounting or adjusting hardware. Consequently, it’s like getting five exercise machines in the footprint of one. By the way this Body Champ can also serve as a recumbent cross trainer for seniors to get a workout.

Dimensions: 60 inches long, 64 inches high, and 28 inches wide.

Display: The Body Champ Trio Trainer comes with a programmable console that features 21 training programs. In addition, the console has a media shelf.

Handlebars: The Trio Trainer Plus Two comes with three integrated handlebars.

Firstly, a dual-action handlebar for use as an elliptical trainer.

Secondly, a wraparound handlebar, at the base of the seat, for use as a recumbent bike.

 Lastly, a U-shaped handlebar with heart-rate monitor, for use as an upright bike.

Other Features:
  • Transport wheels to move the 3-in-1 exercise machine.
  • Sensors, to measure your heart rate, integrated into the U-shaped handlebar.

Resistance: There is a simple dial to adjust the magnetic resistance to get the desired intensity.

Seat: The height of the seat can be adjusted using a spring-loaded adjustment knob. Also, the seat can be moved to be either closer or away from the console.

Visualize Use: Click to see a video of the Body Champ Trio Trainer in use.

Warranty: 1-year on the frame, 90-days for parts.

Weight of Machine: 100 pounds.

Weight of User (Maximum): 250 pounds.

Workout Quality: The BRT7989 Body Champ Trio Trainer has a smooth magnetic-encased flywheel that is ultra-quiet so that you can use it early in the morning or late at night without disturbing anyone in the home.

What Buyers Liked:

75% of buyers liked – Easy to get on and help legs – Recommended for those with knee problems ––Some took 4 hours to assemble with instructions, others took 3 days – Easy to transition from using the bike to using the elliptical without stopping - Preprogrammed workouts are great – Very sturdy and good quality – Very quiet – Default workouts are pretty good.

PROS

First, you can use it as an elliptical trainer, an upright stationary bike, a recumbent bike, a seated road bike, and a sprint road bike.

Second, the Body Champ's 21 training programs will keep you motivated for the long haul.

CONS

However, it doesn't come with a water bottle holder.

3. Body Rider Trio Trainer

This machine is also referred to as Body Rider 3-in-1, Body Rider 3-in-1 Trio Trainer, Body Rider BRT5800, or BRT5800.

Recumbent cross trainers

The Body Rider Trio Trainer can function as an elliptical trainer, as an upright bike, and as a recumbent bike. Consequently, it’s like getting three exercise machines in the footprint of one. Moreover, you can effortlessly transition between these three modes without unmounting or adjusting hardware. Consequently, it’s like getting three exercise machines in the footprint of one. Finally, this machine can serve as a recumbent cross trainer for seniors to get a workout.

Dimensions: 52 inches long, 63 inches high, and 25 inches wide.

Display: The Body Rider 3-in-1 comes with a programmable exercise LCD console that features 21 training programs with pre-set options, a heart rate and hand pulse monitor.

Handlebars: The Body Rider BRT5800 comes with three integrated handlebars.

Firstly, a dual-action handlebar for use as an elliptical trainer.

Secondly, a wraparound handlebar, at the base of the seat, for use as a recumbent bike.

Lastly, a U-shaped handlebar with heart-rate monitor, for use as an upright bike.

Other Features:
  • Transport wheels  to help move the Body Rider 3-in-1 Trio Trainer.

Resistance: The Body Rider Trio Trainer has an easy to adjust motorized magnetic resistance with A/C adapter.

Seat: The height of the seat can be adjusted using a spring-loaded adjustment knob. Also, the seat can be moved to be either closer or away from the console. In addition, the seat has a backrest and an extra cushion for safety and comfort.

Visualize Use: Click to see a video of the Body Rider Trio Trainer in use.

Warranty: 1-year on the frame, 90-days for parts.

Weight of Machine: 90.3 pounds.

Weight of User (Maximum): 250 pounds.

Workout Quality: The Trio Trainer has a smooth encased magnetic flywheel that allows the machine to run quietly with continuous resistance-level adjustment. In addition, the flywheel is comparable to those used in professional-grade floor cycles.

What Buyers Liked:

70% of buyers liked – Customer support so helpful and friendly – Sent replacement parts for free – Easy to install and durable – One hour to assemble - Can sit or stand for exercise and it is quite sturdy - Quiet and smooth ride - Sturdy enough to support 300+ pound man – Used by someone with knee replacement surgery – Super quiet.

PROS

First, you get an elliptical trainer, an upright bike, and a recumbent bike all in the same floor space. Moreover, you can effortlessly transition between these three modes without making any changes to the machine.

CONS

However, it doesn't come with a water bottle holder.

And, there is no media shelf on the console.

4. ProForm Hybrid Trainer

This machine is also referred to as ProForm PFEL03815K.

Recumbent cross trainers

The ProForm Hybrid Trainer offers the same benefits as an elliptical trainer and a recumbent exercise bike, for a low-impact workout. Consequently, it is like getting two exercise machines in the footprint of one. Lastly, this trainer can also act as a recumbent cross trainer for seniors to get a workout.

Dimensions: 70.5 inches long, 60.5 inches high, and 24.5 inches wide.

Display: The LCD monitor displays track distance, cadence, estimated calorie burn, RPM, watts, and time. Also, it comes with an integrated tablet holder so you can stream iFIT workouts to your own smart device.

Handlebars: The PFEL03815K comes with fixed and moving handlebars. The fixed handlebars used for a lower body workout. While the moving handlebars are used for an effective full-body cardio workout using both lower and upper body by engaging your arms, shoulders, and back with soft-touch upper body grips.

Other Features:
  • Front mounted transport wheels to move the PFEL03815K.
  • EKG grip pulse sensors on the fixed handlebars, used for a lower body workout, give a quick estimate of your heart rate.
  • Onboard sound system, with dual 2” speakers, to help you follow along with your iFIT workouts or listening to music from your smart device.
  • Water bottle holder conveniently located on the hybrid trainer’s frame.

Pedals: The ProForm PFEL03815K has oversized, cushioned, adjustable pedals. Indeed, they help you find the most comfortable position when you are using the PFEL03815K as an elliptical trainer or a recumbent bike.

Resistance: The PFEL03815K has 16 silent digital magnetic resistance levels. So, if you subscribe to iFIT, the iFIT trainer can automatically adjust the 16 resistance levels. 

Seat: The wide seat provides improved lumbar support.

Stride: The 15-inch foot stride gives you a low-impact lower body workout.

Visualize Use: Click to see a video of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer in use..

Warranty: 5-years on the frame, 90-days for parts and labor.

Workout Quality: The inertia-enhanced flywheel gives a smooth workout.

Weight of Machine: 117 pounds.

Weight of User (Maximum): 350 pounds.

What Buyers Liked:

74% of buyers liked – Switch from bike to elliptical and vice versa - Transition from elliptical to recumbent bike is fairly simple - Programmed workouts for both - Seat adjustments are great, the seat is wide enough, comfortable - It is not a bicycle seat.

PROS

First, you get an elliptical trainer and a recumbent exercise bike all in the same machine.

Second, you can stream iFIT workouts to your mobile device with the sound coming from the machine’s speakers and workout intensity controlled by iFIT.

Finally, it comes with a 5-year warranty on the frame and a 90-day warranty on parts and labor.

Who will Benefit from these Recumbent Cross Trainers?

  • Individuals with arthritis, joint pain, or recovering from joint injuries. Recumbent cross trainers have a seat that these individuals can use to reduce the impact on their joints such as ankles, knees, and hips.
  • Overweight or obese individuals may find typical workout machines uncomfortable or too intense. But, recumbent cross trainers provide a more convenient way to get in shape and improve their cardiovascular system.
  • Recumbent cross trainers provide an effective workout while minimizing strain on the heart and blood vessels. Consequently, anyone with a heart condition or other cardiovascular issue might benefit from these trainers ability to provide a low-impact way to improve cardiovascular fitness.
  • The seated position of recumbent cross trainer for seniors provide stability, thereby allowing seniors and others with balance issues get a safe workout.
  • Recumbent cross trainers provide a controlled environment for patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or medical conditions to rebuild strength, mobility, and cardiovascular endurance.
  • Recumbent cross trainers can be adapted to allow people with disabilities get a cardiovascular workout.
  • In fact, a recumbent cross trainer for seniors is a great option for seniors and others who prefer low-impact workouts that are gentler on the body compared to running or high-impact activities.
  • Recumbent cross trainers provide a gentle cardiovascular workout without placing excessive stress on the body. In fact a recumbent cross trainer for seniors is a great option for seniors dealing with joint stiffness and age-related physical limitations.

What to Look for when Selecting a Recumbent Cross Trainer?

  • Assembly: Check to see how easy the recumbent cross trainer is to assemble. Pay particular attention to weight and dimensions of big trainers. Verify that you can carry them or you would need help. Some models might require professional assembly.
  • Brand Reputation: Opt for reputable brands known for producing quality recumbent cross trainers. Established brands often have better customer support and reliable products.
  • Console and Display: The console should be easy to read and use. It should display important workout metrics such as time, distance, speed, calories burned, and heart rate. Some models might even offer features like Bluetooth connectivity or compatibility with fitness apps.
  • Dimensions: Check the dimensions of the recumbent cross trainer and the available space in your home. Ensure that it fits comfortably in your designated location.
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Many recumbent cross trainers come with built-in heart rate sensors on the handles. Some advanced models might even support wireless heart rate monitors for more accurate tracking.
  • Maintenance: Look into maintenance requirements to ensure that the recumbent cross trainer remains in good working condition.
  • Noise Level: Check noise level is compatible with where you use the recumbent cross trainer. For example, if you live in an apartment the noise level should be low enough that it doesn’t disturb your neighbors.
  • Pedals: Pedals should be positioned comfortably for your feet.
  • Programs: Many recumbent cross trainers come with preset workout programs. These programs can help keep your workouts varied and challenging. Make sure there is a variety of workout programs that meet your fitness goals.
  • Resistance Levels: Check the range of resistance levels. A larger range allows you to adjust intensity to finer granularity.
  • Seat: Ensure that the seat is well-padded, adjustable, and provides good back support.
  • User Reviews: Reading user reviews can provide insights into real-world experiences with the recumbent cross trainer. Look for feedback on comfort, durability, ease of use, and other potential issues.
  • Warranty: A good warranty is a sign of a manufacturer's confidence in their product's quality. Look for a recumbent cross trainer that comes with a reasonable warranty for both parts and labor.
  • Weight: Check weight of the recumbent cross trainer to prepare you for carrying the trainer into your home.
  • Weight Capacity: Verify that the weight capacity of the recumbent cross trainer supports your weight.

Recumbent Cross Trainers Buyers Guide

The recumbent cross trainers buyer's guide helps you compare recumbent cross trainers features. 

Recumbent Cross Trainers FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Other Related Exercise Gear

Relevant Posts