Matrix cross trainers

Why choose a Matrix cross trainer?

Matrix is the premium, commercial line of Johnson Health Tech, a manufacturer with a fitness history dating back to 1975. You find Matrix machines in gyms, physio centres and hotels all over the world, precisely because they are known for their solid construction, innovative engineering and sleek finish. You get that same club-quality build with these cross trainers, now for home use. For you that means a machine that stands firmly, does its work quietly and lasts for years.

Characteristic of the range is the choice in motion and in resistance. The new models have a quiet, precise induction brake, while the refurbished ex-commercial machines often work with a self-generating magnetic brake system. You also choose between two kinds of motion: the classic elliptical with a horizontal, oval stride, or the Ascent Trainer, which adds a climbing, ascending element and so works your glutes and legs extra.

With these cross trainers Matrix targets the premium segment. If you are looking for an accessible, affordable entry model, a consumer brand makes more sense. If you want commercial level at home, or a heavily discounted, professionally refurbished machine, Matrix is a strong choice.

Which Matrix cross trainer suits you?

The right choice depends mainly on the motion you want, your space and your budget. The situations below quickly point you in the right direction.

You want a classic, smooth cross trainer motion: the elliptical is the familiar choice. You make a flowing, oval stride with a fixed stride length and train your whole body low impact. Ideal for working comfortably on your fitness and burning calories.

You want to train more intensively and work your glutes and legs extra: then the Ascent Trainer is the better choice. It combines the cross trainer motion with a climbing, ascending path and has an adjustable stride length, so you tune the motion to your height and training goal. That way you get more out of the same time.

You want to save as much as possible on commercial quality: then look at the refurbished models. Our technicians thoroughly check every traded-in or ex-showroom machine, so you get professional Matrix quality with a substantial discount and a warranty. See our range of used cross trainers.

You want a machine for continuous, heavy use: the commercial models are built for intensive or (semi-)professional use. See our professional cross trainers too.

You would rather climb or step vertically: alongside the cross trainers, Matrix also offers refurbished stair climbers and steppers for an intensive climbing or stepping workout.

The cross trainers of Matrix explained

Elliptical (E-series)

The classic cross trainer on which you make a smooth, oval motion with a fixed stride length. Fitted with a flywheel for an even feel and a quiet, precise induction brake. Ideal for comfortable, low impact cardio that trains your whole body.

Ascent Trainer (A-series)

Matrix's special flagship. The Ascent Trainer adds a climbing, ascending element to the cross trainer motion, so your glutes, hamstrings and legs are worked extra. Thanks to the adjustable stride length (roughly 51 to 61 cm on these models) and the suspension design, you tune the motion precisely to your body and goal, from gentle recovery to hard training.

Console of your choice (XR, XER, XIR and XUR)

As with the other Matrix cardio, on the new models you choose from the console family, from the clear XR to the extensive XUR with a large touchscreen and entertainment. So you decide how much screen and connectivity you want.

New and refurbished (used)

Alongside the new models you find a wide range of refurbished ex-commercial machines: ellipticals, Ascent Trainers and even steppers and climbmills, often with a discount that can exceed half the price. Every machine is checked by our technicians and comes with a warranty.

What to look for when buying a Matrix cross trainer

Type of motion: elliptical or Ascent Trainer

First decide which motion suits you. The elliptical gives a classic, horizontal stride and is wonderfully smooth. The Ascent Trainer adds a climbing path and trains your glutes and legs more intensively. Both are low impact, but the training feel clearly differs.

Stride length

The stride length is the distance your feet travel with each step. A longer stride feels more natural, especially for taller users. The ellipticals usually have a fixed stride length, while the Ascent Trainers offer an adjustable stride length, so you can tune the motion to your height.

Resistance and ride feel

The new models have a quiet, precise induction brake, ideal for focused training and rehabilitation. The refurbished ex-commercial models often work with a self-generating magnetic brake system. Both systems are low-maintenance and provide an even, comfortable resistance.

Console, entertainment and apps

Consider how much screen you want. On the more extensive consoles you can catch series and music via streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube or Spotify during your workout; for that you do need your own (paid) subscription to those services. Training or route apps are also an optional extra, whose full features usually require a paid subscription. The cross trainer itself of course works perfectly well without.

Space and accessories

Measure your space beforehand and allow for the robust build and the room to move that you need. To protect your floor, have a look at the cross trainer accessories too, such as a sturdy floor mat.

Our advice: choose based on your motion and your budget. If you want a smooth, classic cross trainer motion, an elliptical is an excellent choice. If you want to train more intensively and work your glutes and legs extra, the Ascent Trainer makes more sense. And if you want commercial level at a sharp price, definitely look at the refurbished models. Bear in mind that Matrix is a premium brand: you invest in quality you enjoy for years.

Who is a Matrix cross trainer suitable for?

A Matrix cross trainer suits a broad group of users who want low impact, versatile training:

• Demanding home users who want the quality and finish of a gym machine at home.
• People who want to lose weight or improve fitness with effective, low impact full-body cardio.
• Users with sensitive joints who cannot or do not want to run, but still want to train intensively.
• Users in rehabilitation who want to build up in a controlled, joint-friendly way, in consultation with a therapist.
• Anyone after a bargain who is open to a professionally refurbished, ex-commercial model with a warranty.

If you are after a compact, easy entry model for occasional movement, a consumer brand makes more sense. If you want commercial level, a classic elliptical or the climbing Ascent Trainer at home, Matrix offers a strong, complete choice.

Need help choosing?

Would you like to buy a Matrix cross trainer but are not quite sure which one best fits your wishes and needs? We are happy to help. You can reach our specialists by phone on +31 85 773 00 57, through our customer service, or visit our fitness store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about Matrix cross trainers

What is the difference between an elliptical and an Ascent Trainer?

An elliptical gives a classic, horizontal and oval cross trainer motion with usually a fixed stride length. An Ascent Trainer adds a climbing, ascending element and has an adjustable stride length, so you train your glutes and legs more intensively. Both are low impact, but the Ascent Trainer feels tougher and more versatile.

Which muscles do you train on a Matrix cross trainer?

On a cross trainer you train your whole body: your legs and glutes through the stepping motion and your arms, shoulders and back through the moving handlebars. At the same time you work on your cardiovascular fitness. Through its climbing motion the Ascent Trainer puts a little more emphasis on your glutes and hamstrings.

Are Matrix cross trainers suitable for rehabilitation or older adults?

Yes. The smooth, low impact motion is kind to the joints, and the quiet, precise induction brake of the new models makes controlled build-up straightforward. For rehabilitation, always consult your doctor or physiotherapist first.

What does a used or refurbished Matrix cross trainer mean?

These are traded-in or ex-showroom machines, often from a commercial setting. Our technicians thoroughly inspect and test every machine and replace parts where needed. So you get professional Matrix quality with a substantial discount and a warranty. The warranty period is stated with each model.

Do I need a subscription for the screen of a Matrix cross trainer?

For the cross trainer itself, no. If you want to watch series or music on the more extensive consoles via services such as Netflix, YouTube or Spotify, you need your own subscription for that. Separate training or route apps are also an optional extra, whose full features are usually paid. The machine's training functions simply work without.

Can I try a Matrix cross trainer first?

Yes, in our fitness store in Volkel you can compare and test various cross trainers before you choose. A quick trial on both an elliptical and an Ascent Trainer often tells you more than a spec sheet. Feel free to drop by or call us in advance to ask which models are ready.