Working out isn’t always about working hard, it’s about working smart. Sometimes referred to as an elliptical trainer or x-trainer, a cross trainer is an exercise machine designed to emulate walking, running and climbing stairs but with a more circular gliding action. This reduces the repetitive impact on the knees, ankles and other joints. The reduction minimises the likelihood of injury to the joints during long workouts and with regular use. Most home gym elliptical trainers are manual, meaning they’re powered solely from the user, similar to a gym bike. Although they mainly concentrate on the lower body, most machines now also include moving handles to provide cardiovascular exercise for the upper body. Find out how to use an elliptical trainer effectively with our how-to demonstration videos below.