Fit Trend: TRX

TRX group fitness photo via Shutterstock

By now, you’ve at least heard of the TRX. Many gyms, large and small, carry the suspension trainers. The amazing piece of equipment was created when a Navy SEAL started experimenting with a jiu-jitsu belt and some surplus parachute webbing. SEALS learn how to sew in order to be able to modify their gear when out in the field. So after a few stitches, the TRX was born. Hang the contraption over a door and it is possible to do rows, pull-ups, presses, curls, shoulder raises, triceps extensions, and more using your own body weight. The TRX increases core stability, balance, strength, and flexibility. The home version is now made of nylon (not parachute), and costs around $200.

Top three ways to use the TRX:

1. Core training

Suspension training uses your body weight and is designed to intentionally displace your center of gravity. Your core is activated during every TRX exercise.

2. Pulling exercises

Pulling exercises train all of the muscles involved in pulling, like the back, biceps, rear delts, traps, forearms, and hamstrings together at once. With the TRX, you’re pulling your entire body weight, and combining it with torso stability and pulling from the back.

3. Unilateral training

Unilateral training is important to help identify muscle imbalances and weakness, which can lead to injury. To avoid muscle imbalance, the TRX exercises strengthen opposing muscle groups.

If you are a beginner, we recommend trying one of the professional group classes around town. Here’s where you can find group TRX classes in the Boston area:

Benefitness, 62 Harvard Street (rear), Brookline; 617-232-7440; benefitnesshealthclub.com

Core Cardio Fitness, 239 Commercial Street, Malden; 781-605-3190; corecardioonline.com

Healthworks Back Bay, 441 Stuart Street; 617-859-7700; healthworksfitness.com

Have you tried the TRX? Tell us about it in the comments!