TRX Training Benefits

 TRX Training Benefits 

What is the TRX Suspension Trainer, and why should you care? 

The TRX is an entire gym in a bag, a set of non-stretch, nylon straps that can be hung from literally anywhere, allowing you to work your total body. The TRX, invented by a Navy Seal, looks similar to gymnastics rings; however, the TRX has padded handles and foot cradles, which allow you to do a much wider variety of exercises. Training with the TRX has several unique benefits over other types of fitness equipment.

3 DIMENSIONAL

Unlike most machine exercises, many TRX exercises are in 3D. Most gym machines are in the sagittal plane, which means you only move forward and back (bicep curl machine, a leg extension machine, a treadmill). In real life, your body moves in all three planes: forward and back, side to side (frontal plane), and rotationally (transverse plane). Because the TRX allows you complete freedom of movement, you can do BOTH traditional strength training/single-plane movements AND multi-planar/3D functional training.

BENEFITS FOR WOMEN

The TRX allows you to build tremendous strength and power without ever bulking up, no matter what number of reps per set you do, and regardless of whether you do TRX by itself or in addition to traditional cardio. If you’re looking for slim, firm, and toned muscles, the TRX is a great addition to any routine.

BENEFITS FOR MEN

I know many guys out there want to build muscle. But, if you don’t burn the fat that’s covering your muscles, you will never see them. TRX helps you chisel away the fat to reveal the muscle definition you already have in your arms, chest, and abs, all without lots of added cardio. However, using the TRX does NOT mean you need to give up the iron! TRX makes a great addition to dumbbell and barbell strength training. Chat with any of our expert Personal Trainers to show you how to combine the TRX with traditional equipment to “reveal” the muscles you’ve never seen (but have always been there).

One of the biggest missing components in most men and women’s training programs is flexibility. The TRX is not just for strength training; it also allows you to do a full-body stretch. Many men who swear they hate stretching have found that with the TRX, they can finally gain the flexibility they need to support their strength workouts.

WHAT THE TRX IS…AND ISN’T

I’m not going to tell you that the TRX is “the only piece of equipment you’ll ever need” or that TRX is “the best piece of equipment on the market” or any other such nonsense. Dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, stability balls, and jump ropes, for example, are all just as beneficial, and just as proven to help you reach your goals. The best workout for you is the one you will actually do! But if you’re tired of the usual weights and machines and want something fun and different, TRX is for you. If you’re bored to death with crunches that get you no results, and want functional training for your entire core, TRX is a worthwhile tool that allows you to do dozens of exercises for your abs, obliques, and deeper core muscles.

HOW TO GET STARTED WITH THE TRX

TRX Small Group Training classes are now being offered throughout the week at Pine Lake, Silver Lake and Juanita Bay.

Still not sure the TRX is worth your time? Check out Columbia Athletic Club-Silver Lake’s Facebook page for videos featuring some of the moves you can expect to see in class. 

By Bobby Sorensen, Fitness Director at Columbia Athletic Club-Silver Lake