Rear-Drive Elliptical

A rear driven cross trainer has the flywheel at the back of the machine. This creates a longer, more vertical movement that closely resembles walking or running. That movement is more intensive than with a front driven model and demands more from your muscles and energy system. That makes a rear driven cross trainer an excellent choice for athletes who want to train effectively, burn more calories and seriously build up their fitness.

Rear driven cross trainers are generally larger than front driven models and most variants have an adjustable stride length, allowing you to tailor the training to your height and intensity level. The main selection criteria are the stride length in relation to your body height, the braking system, the maximum user load and the presence of a training computer. Also pay attention to frame stability: preferably choose a model with sufficient own weight, especially if you want to train intensively or at a standing position. Also view our complete range of cross trainers for all types and variants.

What makes a rear driven cross trainer different?

With a rear driven cross trainer the flywheel is at the back, behind the pedals. This causes the stepping surface to move in a longer, more elliptical path that mimics the movement of walking or running. That movement is more active and demands more from your leg muscles, glutes and hamstrings than the flatter movement of a front driven model. You therefore burn slightly more calories per training and experience a higher training intensity.

Another characteristic is that the stride length on most rear driven models is adjustable. That gives you more freedom to tailor the training to your body height and training goal. A shorter stride length feels more like a stepping movement and intensively loads the quadriceps. A longer stride length mimics a running movement and loads the hamstrings and glutes more.

Rear driven cross trainers are not the best choice with active knee, hip or back complaints. The longer, more vertical movement places more load on the joints than a front driven model. With rehabilitation or joint problems a front driven cross trainer is the safer option.

Which rear driven cross trainer suits you?

The right choice depends on your training goal, body height, available space and desired functions. The following scenarios help you quickly find the right direction.

You want to train more intensively and burn more calories than on a front driven model: A rear driven cross trainer offers a higher training intensity through its longer, more active movement. Ideal for athletes who want to push their limits and seriously improve their fitness. Also read our blog buying a cross trainer: what to look for for more buying guidance.

You want to be able to adjust the stride length to your height and training intensity: Most rear driven cross trainers have an adjustable stride length. That makes the machine suitable for multiple users of different heights and gives you more variety in your training sessions.

You are an advanced athlete who wants to train with variety and results in mind: Choose a rear driven model with an extensive training computer, multiple resistance levels and HIIT programmes. This allows you to plan training sessions on heart rate, wattage or calorie burning and track your progress accurately. Combine with a heart rate monitor for accurate heart-rate-guided training.

You want to train with apps such as Kinomap or iConsole: Various rear driven cross trainers support app connectivity via Bluetooth. This lets you train virtually with automatic resistance adjustment on route profiles, which makes training sessions considerably more challenging and varied.

You have sufficient space and want maximum training intensity: Rear driven cross trainers are generally larger than front driven models. Make sure you have sufficient floor area available and check the dimensions of the desired model in advance. Also place a fitness mat under the machine for floor protection and vibration damping.

What to look for when buying?

Stride length and body height

The stride length determines how comfortable and natural the movement feels. As a guideline: for users up to 1.60m a stride length of approximately 30 to 40cm is generally sufficient. For users between 1.70m and 2.00m a stride length of 40 to 50cm is optimal. Taller than 2.00m? Choose a model with a stride length of more than 50cm. With rear driven cross trainers the stride length is adjustable on most models, making the machine suitable for multiple users of different heights.

Braking system

A magnetic braking system is the standard with quality rear driven cross trainers. Quiet, maintenance-free and accurately adjustable. An induction braking system offers even more accurate resistance regulation via an electrical coil and is ideal for wattage-guided training. Choose an induction system if you want to train very precisely on intensity or regularly work with heart rate zones.

Stability and frame

Rear driven cross trainers are generally slightly less stable than front driven models, especially in lower price ranges. Preferably choose a model with sufficient own weight and a sturdy frame. A heavier machine stands more stably, especially at high training intensity. Also check whether the cross trainer has adjustable floor feet so you can level it on uneven floors.

Maximum user load

Always choose a model that is at least 20kg above your own bodyweight. An overloaded cross trainer wears out faster and performs less well. Heavier models are generally built with a sturdier frame and stronger bearings, which benefits lifespan and user comfort.

Training computer and connectivity

A training computer gives you insight into training time, speed, distance, RPM, wattage, burned calories and heart rate. Models in the higher segment also offer app connectivity, HIIT programmes and the ability to train with virtual routes via apps such as Kinomap or iConsole. The more extensive the computer, the more targeted and varied you can train.

Dimensions and space

Rear driven cross trainers are generally larger than front driven models and take up more floor area. Measure your available space in advance and compare with the exact dimensions of the machine. Also calculate movement space around the device. Most models have transport wheels for easy moving.

Our advice: Always try a rear driven cross trainer physically before buying. The longer, more active movement feels essentially different from a front driven model. What is a pleasant challenge for one athlete can feel uncomfortable for another. Come by our fitness store in Volkel to experience and compare the models yourself.

Advantages and limitations of a rear driven cross trainer

A rear driven cross trainer offers a more intensive training, an adjustable stride length and a more active movement that is close to running or walking. That makes it an attractive choice for athletes who want to seriously improve their fitness and get more out of every training session.

A limitation is the higher joint load compared to a front driven model. Athletes with knee, hip or back complaints are better off with a front driven cross trainer. Rear driven models are also larger and take up more space.

Who is a rear driven cross trainer suitable for?

• Advanced athletes who want to train more intensively and seek more challenge than a front driven model offers.
• Athletes who want to adjust their stride length to their height or training intensity for more variety and comfort.
• Home athletes with sufficient space who want to train with results in mind using heart rate zones, HIIT programmes or app connectivity.
• Athletes who want to burn more calories per training thanks to the more active, intensive movement.

A rear driven cross trainer is less suitable for athletes with knee, hip or back complaints, for rehabilitation purposes, for athletes with limited space or for athletes seeking the lowest possible joint load. In those cases a front driven cross trainer is the better choice. Also view our complete overview of tips for buying a cross trainer for more help with your choice.

Need help with your choice?

We will be happy to help you. You can reach our cross trainer specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our fitness store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about rear driven cross trainers

What is the difference between a rear driven and front driven cross trainer?

With a rear driven cross trainer the flywheel is at the back, creating a longer, more vertical movement resembling walking or running. This is more intensive and places more load on the joints. With a front driven cross trainer the flywheel is at the front, the movement is flatter and more joint-friendly and the machine is generally more compact. Rear driven models are generally larger and more intensive to use.

Is a rear driven cross trainer suitable with knee problems?

No, not as a first choice. The longer, more vertical movement places more load on the knees and hips than a front driven model. With knee problems or rehabilitation a front driven cross trainer is the safer and more recommended option. Always consult a physiotherapist first if in doubt.

Can I adjust the stride length on a rear driven cross trainer?

On most rear driven cross trainers the stride length is adjustable. That makes the machine suitable for multiple users of different heights and gives you more variety in your training sessions. Check when purchasing which stride lengths the desired model supports.

How much space do I need for a rear driven cross trainer?

Rear driven models are generally larger than front driven variants. Roughly calculate a floor area of approximately 1.8 to 2.0 metres by 0.7 metres for the machine itself, plus movement space around it. Always check the exact dimensions of the desired model and measure your space in advance.

Is a rear driven cross trainer suitable for beginners?

Yes, but take the higher training intensity into account. Start with a lower resistance and shorter stride length to get familiar with the movement. Build up intensity gradually as your fitness improves. For athletes who really want to start in a low-threshold way, a front driven model can be more accessible.

What is a good stride length for my height?

As a guideline: up to 1.60m a stride length of approximately 30 to 40cm is sufficient. Between 1.70m and 2.00m a stride length of 40 to 50cm is optimal. Above 2.00m a stride length of more than 50cm is recommended. The best thing is to try the cross trainer yourself in our fitness store in Volkel to feel what suits you best.