Cross Trainer or Step Machine?

[oblio]

Hi folks

I seem to be working my way through cross traners (3 in 12 months) so am thinking that maybe a step machine might be better.

Does anyone out there have one or can you provide experience of the relative merits of each?

I want the machine to keep fit and lose weight. The cross trainer has worked well and I like it (Proform 500) however it is a pain when it breaks as it takes weeks to get it collected and replaced. If the step machine can provide the cardio vascular workout I want and is more robust then I'll go that way

Cheers

[Hoofy]

ISTR you weigh 14 stone? Have you considered a bicycle (normal or recumbent)? I've had one since about 2002 and use it on average once a fortnight over that time (depending on goals).

[oblio]

Hoofy said:

ISTR you weigh 14 stone? Have you considered a bicycle (normal or recumbent)? I've had one since about 2002 and use it on average once a fortnight over that time (depending on goals).

I dont look good in lycra

I have a bike but little inclination to use it Im afraid Inside training though, motivates me hence the post.

Having done some research it appears that you get 'more bang for your buck' with the cross trainer in terms of fat burn and fitness so I have gone with another one

Fingers crossed

[Hoofy]

Sorry, I meant a gym bike. I have a recumbent like this: http://amzn.to/1cPmlZE

It's not as effective as other things for burning cals but I don't have an excuse to not use it as I can do other things while pedalling. I mean, I could burn 1000 cals an hour on a running machine but if I use it just once, it's not going to be much use overall. Also with a recumbent set to the toughest setting, you can use it as a pre- or post-exhaust for building muscle size (bigger muscles burn more cals when you are sleeping - my kinda exercise!).

[Halb]

How fit are you? How about a versaclimber?
Or stairmaster?

[oblio]

Halb said:

How fit are you? How about a versaclimber?
Or stairmaster?

Fit enough but JEEZ...the prices

I have ordered another cross trainer going up a notch into the £700's now so hopefully something a bit more rigid.

If this one doesnt last the course then I I'll have to re-look at things