MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer vs New Image FITT Strider
We compare the MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer and the New Image FITT Strider across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer | New Image FITT Strider | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.3/10 | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | Low-impact whole-body cardio at home, easy on the joints | Low-impact whole-body cardio at home, easy on the joints |
| Not ideal for | Anyone very short on space, unless it folds compactly | Anyone very short on space, unless it folds compactly |
| Brand | MERACH | New Image |
Type and Resistance
MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer
This cross trainer positions the Long Stride Cross Trainer as a full standing elliptical machine for home use. It is built around a 47 cm stride, intended to deliver a longer step length and a smoother motion than shorter-stride designs. Resistance is provided by a magnetic system and is adjustable across 16 levels, creating a wider range than a simple easy-to-hard spread. The intention is to increase resistance gradually and check comfort at each level before longer sessions, although very fine changes may be harder to judge precisely. The unit is designed to operate quietly in typical home settings.
New Image FITT Strider
A standing elliptical cross trainer format shapes how workouts are performed, with the cross trainer designed for upright use rather than seated pedalling. It uses magnetic resistance, which typically means resistance changes smoothly as the user adjusts difficulty. The console supports 8 resistance levels, enabling progression from a lower level for warm-up through to higher levels for more demanding sets. This step range supports both beginners and more experienced exercisers.
Stride, Flywheel and Feel
MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer
With a reported 47 cm stride, the MERACH is designed to create a longer step for people who find short-stride machines less comfortable, especially during steady standing sessions. The magnetic resistance uses 8/16 levels, enabling effort to be fine-tuned without frequent speed changes. The long stride encourages a more natural, low-impact rhythm for many riders, though very tall or very short users may still need practice to match their range. A smoother flywheel motion supports steady pedaling, but sudden high-effort jumps may feel less responsive. Overall, the feel prioritises controlled, repeatable strides, while staying within the machine's maximum user weight remains essential and the stride length should suit the rider's height.
New Image FITT Strider
Stride, flywheel, and overall feel are driven mainly by the cross trainer machine's upright, elliptical design and its magnetic resistance system. The New Image uses a flywheel-driven elliptical motion rather than a step-up bounce, which keeps the movement smooth. Magnetic resistance is offered in 8 levels, allowing adjustments from gentle settings to higher levels as pacing improves. An adjustable incline alters the stride angle and the forward lean, so cadence can feel different even when the resistance level stays the same. Pulse and speed feedback are included to help gauge effort.
Console, Programmes and Extras
MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer
Control options on the cross trainer focus on the console, where users select resistance to support a repeatable stride feel. Resistance changes are made at the console, then pedalling begins to confirm the stride matches the routine. Extras that might typically add on-console features such as fans, screens, or holders are not stated, which limits the available detail about console functionality.
New Image FITT Strider
The console on the cross trainer upright elliptical cross trainer is an LCD display that shows workout metrics in one place: speed, distance, time, pulse, and calories. It includes pulse sensors for heart-rate readouts, so users can monitor intensity, although accurate readings depend on consistent hand placement. Console operation is simple during a session, with resistance selection followed by reading the displayed stats as the workout progresses. The console area also includes a phone and tablet holder, which can support entertainment but may reduce viewing comfort for some users.
Size, Build and Max User Weight
MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer
The machine's physical size and build matter for home use, particularly where space is limited. The MERACH has an elliptical frame intended for steady, low-impact movement, and it offers a 47cm stride for longer leg travel. This can suit taller users, although individual fit varies. Its magnetic resistance is listed with 8 and 16 levels, which influences how the workout feels rather than the overall footprint. The maximum user weight is 400 lbs, so heavier users should confirm compatibility, and the 47cm stride should be checked against their height to ensure comfortable step length.
New Image FITT Strider
This cross trainer is an upright elliptical cross trainer with an adjustable incline, designed to suit typical home workout spaces while supporting the user in an upright position. The adjustable incline indicates the workout angle can be changed, which may affect how stable the feel is across different step styles. The maximum user weight is not stated, so it is essential to check it before use and confirm the stride length suits the user's height.
Who Is This Cross Trainer For?
MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer
This cross trainer is best suited to people who want a low-impact elliptical for home workouts, particularly those who prefer a longer 47cm stride for smoother step length. With 8/16 levels of resistance adjustment, it supports beginners looking for gradual changes and more experienced exercisers who switch settings during sessions.
New Image FITT Strider
This cross trainer suits people who want a straightforward elliptical workout at home. It is especially suitable for beginners who prefer magnetic resistance, which is provided in eight levels. The LCD console is designed to monitor speed, distance, time, pulse and calories, with pulse sensors built into the handles. An adjustable incline can add variety to sessions by changing how hard the workout feels, for example as fitness improves. The machine may be less appealing to advanced users who want more resistance detail or tighter control over longer workouts.
MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer: pros
- Elliptical cross trainer
- Magnetic, 16 resistance levels
- Quiet
- Low-impact cardio, gentle on the joints
Cons
- Full cross trainers take up floor space (look for foldable)
- Check the stride length suits your height
- Stay within the maximum user weight
New Image FITT Strider: pros
- Elliptical cross trainer
- Magnetic, 8 resistance levels
- LCD console, pulse sensors
- Low-impact cardio, gentle on the joints
Cons
- Full cross trainers take up floor space (look for foldable)
- Check the stride length suits your height
- Stay within the maximum user weight
Our verdict
Our pick is the MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer (our score 9.3/10) - A practical cross trainer (elliptical cross trainer, magnetic, 16 resistance levels) for low-impact home cardio. The New Image FITT Strider is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.