Cross Training Questions

Should I go to the gym and do weight resistance training or buy a cross trainer?

I seriously need to get fit but I can't decide whether to continue going to a ladies gym or just buy a cross trainer for home. Which do you think is better for all round fitness/body toning/weight loss?

Public Comments

1. go to the gym do it for a mth and see what you think
2. if you want to get fit, YOU only need one thing......... MOTIVATION and LOTS of it! use the rowing machine along with free weights ABOVE all, eat a proper diet!
3. right dont buy the cross trainer; u need a combination of strength training and cardio for better all round fitness. with strength training you experience some muscle growth which means that they burn more energy anyway, so u can lose weigfht like that, but also do not neglect your cardio. i would recommend jogging outside; its free and less dull than using a cross trainer. hope this helps
4. Weightlifting has increasing shown to be a great way to lose weight. The increase in muscle mass demands more calories to function, thus making a good diet many times more effective. Yet a well rounded aerobic exercise program is also needed to supplement the weightlifting. Good luck and stay motivated!
5. I recommend that training with other people gives you more motivation when you see how hard other's work especially if you have a lazy day. Plus at a gym you can try all other kinds of equipment or training methods to get fit. Whilst a cross-trainer will work out cheaper in the long run, will you be motivated to use it as often as you planned? What about when you get bored of it - will you purchase another machine or try something else to keep up your interest? The key reason why so many people don't stick with exercising is because they haven't found something that they really enjoy doing. If it's dance, take a dance class. If it's running or swimming do that. Trying to do reps in the gym when you're not enjoying it will be a waste of money, time and energy. Don't forget to eat a good diet too!
6. I would recommend going to the gym.The atmosphere would be more viable for losing weight and toning and it really sets the motivational factor , and there are professsionals to help you.Gym over resistance trainer anytime
7. Though the crosstrainer gives you a good all round work out your body will get used to doing the same movement and useind the muscles in the same way which means you'll stop seeing results. The best thing to do is to go to the gym and do cardio training, weight training, resistance training, classes or things like jump squats with weights etc. The more varied your exercise is, and as long as you keep challanging yourself you will get the best results.
8. I would stick with the gym. It is more fun, you have fellow sufferers for company and there is always a social element. Unfortunately my experience of gym machines and equipment, bought for home use, is that most end up as clothes horses!