I’m not shy about my love for the TRX suspension system. But the first time I saw a set of suspension straps I was sceptical. How could something so flimsy provide a challenging and effective workout?
Invented by a former US Navy SEAL, the TRX Tactical Suspension Trainer™ bodyweight system is designed to be used anywhere, anytime by anyone.
It didn’t take long for me to see just how awesome this piece of equipment is. I use them in almost every personal training session and have even helped a handful of clients install their own set at home! If I could only use one piece of equipment to train myself and my clients, it would be the TRX.
- TRX is fun and challenging
- TRX is versatile. There are dozens of exercises to choose from so you can get a full body workout with a single piece of equipment. Increase your strength, muscular endurance, balance, flexibility and core strength.
- TRX can be used by people of any fitness and level of ability. The exercises are as easy or as hard as you make them!
- TRX is lightweight and portable. The straps can be used in a gym, at home, outdoors or while travelling. There is literally no excuse to miss a workout
- TRX can be used to support other physical practices, such as yoga.
- TRX is also a great tool for rehabilitation.
However, if you use the TRX incorrectly you won’t receive the full benefits of the exercise and you may wind up injuring yourself. I’ve made three short videos to help address the most common errors and help you use the straps safely and effectively.
Video 1: The four guidelines
In video 1 I explain the four key guidelines for using TRX suspension straps:
- Correct posture and algnment. Always stack your hips, shoulders and ears in a straight line. This will help you keep a neutral spine and remain in a plank position
- No sawing. The TRX straps should never be used like a pulley system. Avoid the straps shifting along the anchor point.
- No rubbing. There should be NO rubbing of the straps on any part of the body during any exercise.
- No Slacking. There should be NO slack in the straps during any exercise. Keep the straps taut.
Video 2: How to adjust the straps
To get the most out of this piece of equipment, it’s important that the TRX straps are at the correct length for each exercise. In this video, I show you the four strap lengths for the most common TRX exercises.
Video 3: How to make a single handle
In video 3 I demonstrate how to make a safe, strong handle for TRX exercises which are performed using only one arm.
Ready to move?
Check out the library of TRX workouts. Each workout is categorised by specific focus, level and time. There’s something for everyone and new workouts will be added regularly so you’ll never get bored.
