I have been teaching a TRX class for over a year but a lot of people have never heard of it, so I thought I would give an introduction along with some benefits.
What is TRX
TRX stands for Total Body Resistance Exercise and was invented by a Navy Seal, who needed to keep in shape when conducting missions abroad. Think of a TRX as a modification of gymnastic rings, except you have a different handle and added foot strap, allowing you to combine both upper and lower body training. Essentially, the kit allows you to suspend your body in different positions, depending on how easy or hard you want to make it.
How is TRX different?
- It can be used to really target your posterior chain (back, bum and hamstrings, which are often neglected and weak muscle groups in most people).
- Targets those stabiliser muscles – again most people tend to focus on working larger and more visible muscles and neglect the smaller stabiliser muscles. These muscles are so important to stay balanced and avoid injury.
- You’re in a suspended position which means your core is constantly engaged. Suspension training allows us to use our own bodyweight as the form resistance, so you will be working multiple muscle groups and burning more calories at rest.
Versatile Kit
Not sure if bodyweight exercises are effective? Take a look at a Gymnasts body! You don’t need a lot of equipment and this piece of kit delivers a fast and effective workout. Plus TRX has the advantage of being easy to store and pack in your case, especially if you are crazy like me and like to train when you’re on holiday.
All you need is an anchor point, so if you want to train outdoors you can strap it around a tree or if you prefer indoors then you can use your door frame – always give it a tug test to make sure it’s safe and secure.
Caters for beginners to advanced
Another benefit of using a TRX is that its suitable for all levels and abilities, if you struggle to get a full range of motion performing a squat, the TRX is really useful as you have the advantage of using your upper body to help lower you and learn good technique.
As well as being a fantastic form of strength training, the TRX can also improve your cardiovascular fitness, joint stability, coordination and flexibility. My 45-minute class burns around 450-500 calories each time.
TRX will work you in a completely different way to most other exercises – it is certainly different and that’s why I love it! If you’re looking for more tips on weight loss and getting fit then please get in touch.
