Is the TRX Suspension Trainer just another fitness gimmick?
Is it a game-changer? What can it do for me?
These are just some of the basic questions answered in this review.
This TRX suspension trainer review is based on my own personal use of the TRX for the last two and a half years.
As well, I’ve talked to personal trainers, triathletes, classmates, friends, and researched forums at length to find out how others feel about this fitness tool.
The Highlights…
• What is the TRX Suspension Trainer?
• What Are The Benefits Of The TRX Suspension Trainer?
• And The Negatives?
• What’s Included With The TRX Pro Kit?
• What Did The TRX Trainer Do For Me?
• Is It Worth The Price?
• What Is Your Review Of The TRX?
• TRX Trainer Related Articles
• Comments
What is the TRX Suspension Trainer?
The TRX suspension trainer is an idea developed from Navy SEAL ingenuity and their need to train for top level performance in any location and in any conditions.
The TRX is the top body weight based suspension trainer on the market today. It’s used extensively by pro athletes, military personnel, personal trainers and fitness class instructors.
The concept behind the TRX trainer is simple: a set of straps anchored from a single overhead point that allows users to use their own body weight in varying angles and ranges of motion to exercise large muscles groups.
Adjusting resistance is as easy as adjusting your body angle. Simply moving your hands or feet, whichever is in contact with the ground, away from or closer to the point directly beneath the anchor point will either lessen the resistance or make the movement more challenging.
The TRX trainer itself consists of an anchor strap, main suspension straps and handles with attached foot cradles. Integrated in the design are several clever features that make the TRX easy to set up and adjust for better transitions between movements.
=> TRX Suspension Trainer Pro Kit <=
What Are The Benefits Of The TRX Suspension Trainer?
Portable – Train Where Ever You Want…
The TRX trainer can be used virtually anywhere you want to workout. Everything fits in the convenient tote bag and weighs less than two pounds.
I personally love working out in the backyard on a sunny day or at the park under a seventy foot poplar tree next to the lake.
The anchor strap of the TRX simply wraps around any suitable overhead structure that can safely bear your weight. I’ve used tree branches, telephone poles, soccer nets, chin up bars, cross beams in a barn and my kids jungle gym as anchoring points.
For indoors or when traveling, the TRX comes with a door anchor attachment. The door anchor is a strap with a non-scuff stopper at the end that anchors the TRX when the door is closed.
Using the TRX door anchor isn’t my preferred anchoring option. I find performing many of my favorite movements too restrictive in front of a door. Nevertheless, it’s a fantastic accessory for travel and getting a quick workout in the hotel room or at grandma’s house.
Versatile – Train However You Want…
It may seem the TRX is geared toward elite athletes who are already physically fit, however it is an excellent tool for beginners or the physically gifted and everyone in between.
The TRX is effective for building strength, cardiovascular endurance and flexibilty.
Military, police, fire fighters and other first responders use it for functional training.
Therapist incorporate TRX workouts into rehabilitation programs for the elderly and accident victims.
Others use it to improve their metabolic conditioning to lose weight and increase their energy levels.
Variety – It’s Never Boring…
Adding variety to any fitness routine whether it’s new exercises, different workout partners, or a change of scenery keeps things fresh and fun.
When you enjoy the workouts, you’re much more likely to keep at it and enjoy the results.
Once familiar with suspension training, you can progress to sport specific TRX routines or a multitude of other workouts by getting workout DVD’s from the official TRX website or viewing a ton of TRX content on Youtube
The TRX offers literally hundreds of possible exercises, movements and routines. I’ve seen videos where individuals have worked fitness balls, kettlebells and even stripper poles into their TRX workouts. I’ve yet to try the stripper pole, but it looked fun (and hard).
And The Negatives?
I’m a big fan of the TRX, but nothing is perfect. Here are a few of my concerns/complaints and some justifications where I though were needed.
Price
The biggest complaint most have about the TRX is the price. At almost $200 for the Pro Kit and $250 for the Force Kit: Tactical, it’s not cheap. However, these trainers are extremely well made.
I still have my original model TRX from two years ago. I no longer use this one, but my kids use it as a swing/tarzan rope in our basement. They abuse it terribly. Except for worn hand grips and a little wear and tear at the apex, my original TRX is every bit as good as the day I bought it – just uglier.
Foot Cradles
This may sound fussy, but I wish the foot cradles for the Pro Kit were bigger to accommodate size 12+ shoes better. I think a larger foot cradle or a semi-rigid design like the Jungle Gym XT would make transitions between some movements much smoother.
Please note, the TRX Force Kit model does come with larger foot cradles to accommodate boots and big feet.
What’s Included With The TRX Pro Kit?
The New “P2″ Model Suspension Trainer
If you’re thinking of buying a used TRX to improve your fitness, you may come across some of the original models. I would suggest you lean towards the new “P2″ model because of the design improvements even though the original TRX model is functionally the same.
The new anchoring interface incorporates an additional carabiner on the lower end of the anchor strap instead of a sewn loop making setting up and taking down easier. For the individual, the amount of time you save is minimal compared to the original TRX, but for the class instructor who needs to set up a dozen or more TRX, the improvement is appreciated.
The new self-adjusting equalizer loop is the most useful improvement. The equalizer loop is basically another loop joining the trainer straps at the apex. The equalizer loop prevents the straps from sliding through the main loop by more than a few inches.
This makes the TRX even safer and ensures the straps won’t wear excessively due to the “sawing” action that’s possible with the original TRX model.
Also added to the P2 version were new handles for better durability and comfort as well as length adjustment markings along the straps.
65 Minute Basic Training DVD
The Basic Training DVD is made up of a 25-minute “Introduction To Suspension Training” video and a 40-minute real time workout featuring the most common exercises for all major muscle groups.
For the beginners, these are the exercises you want to start with before moving on to the more challenging ones.
The introduction to Suspension Training video is very informative when first starting out with the TRX. It has good information about proper installation height, safety tips, one-handed use, getting into the foot cradles, etc.
Especially important is the section on using the TRX Door Anchor attachment and it’s safety tips. See the TRX Door Anchor review for more information.
35 page Workout and User Guide
If you prefer a manual to videos, the TRX Pro Kit also includes a “ruggedized” instruction manual with 36 TRX progressions. I found this manual more useful when I first received my TRX and began familiarizing myself with the common exercises.
TRX Door Anchor attachment (now included)
Where no convenient overhead structure is available, such as indoors or when traveling, the TRX comes with a door anchor attachment. As the name suggests, the TRX door anchor utilizes any suitable door as an anchor point for your trainer.
I personally wouldn’t use the door anchor method for most workouts. I find areas around doors are typically cramped and prefer to go outside whenever I can.
However, it’s a nice option to have when on the road. I’ve used it in hotel rooms and vacation condos for a quick stretch or maintenance workout whenever I felt the urge.
Have a look at the following video for a quick look at the Pro Kit and to see it in action.
Get The TRX at TRXtraining.com
What Did The TRX Trainer Do For Me?
I’m not a pro athlete (yet) or Navy SEAL, but I’ve always been a bit of a fitness buff, so I’ve always been in decent shape. I didn’t buy my TRX to lose weight, but I did want to get better at my passion: triathlon.
By incorporating suspension training into my fitness regimen, I’ve dramatically improved my times in sprint and olympic distance triathlons. I used to go through periods where I just got bored of training.
Triathlon training for me used to be a lot of repetitive swimming, cycling and running. Now, I’ve added three TRX workouts per week: two varied workouts for about 45 minutes and one 30 minute functional swim training workout.
Comparing the same triathlon sprint results one year apart, I knocked a staggering seven minutes and change off my previous time. For my olympic distance race performance, my times improved in the 20 minute range and continue to get better.
As an added bonus, I’ve managed to remain injury-free during my training. I attribute this to less repetitive training and a much stronger and balanced core area.
For non-triathletes, this may not mean much, but for me it has meant renewed passion for my sport, better all-around fitness, and just feeling really good. Next on my list – the Half-Ironman and Ironman triathlons…
Is It Worth The Price?
While the TRX system is highly rated among consumers, many may find the price a bit high. The basic TRX Pro Kit sells for $199.95.
However, TRX does routinely runs promotions. It’s not uncommon to get the TRX for 10 to 20% off with free shipping to the U.S. and Canada, bringing the price down to the $160 to $180 range.
To put it in perspective, your average gym membership will cost $400 or more per year. Ideally, it would be nice to have both the gym membership and the TRX. However, if it came down to one or the other, the TRX would be my choice – hands down.
Overall, the TRX Suspension Trainer is a great piece of equipment and a great investment.
Back To: The Highlights…
What Is Your Review Of The TRX?
Share your opinion of the TRX, suspension training or even alternatives. Leave your own TRX suspension trainer review in the comment box below and assist others in making an informed decision. Good or bad, we’d love to here from you…
- TRX Yoga Fusion Workout
- The New TRX Force Kit: Tactical
- The Human Trainer Review – Split Design Suspension Body Weight Training
- A Review Of The Jungle Gym XT – Can It Stand Up To The TRX?
- Suspension Trainers: 5 Impressive Benefits To Your Overall Fitness
- Metabolic Training – Get Fit Faster
{ 40 comments… read them below or add one }
Darin I agree the TRX is a lot more mobile for travel purposes but I like the jungle gym better for my home because it is so easy to make it a harder workout if you want to. I have used both and I can actually say that the workout is equally good from one to the other. Thank you for this article and the yoga video you suggested.
I took your advice for Jack and I checked out the yoga fusion workout because I do yoga quite a bit. I noticed that she is doing some kickboxing moves as well but in slow motion to help with the balance. I would like that as well because I do Taibo and sometimes my balance isn’t so great. You can do a lot with this TRX system and I can’t wait to get one.
Gary,
For more yoga inspired movements for the TRX, just go to YouTube and search “TRX Yoga”. There’s plenty of videos (some good, some bad) that can help you put together your own routines.
Take care,
So according to your comment to Andre the TRX system is just one strap that hooks to the door jam or what ever and then branches of into two straps right? Where the Jungle Gym is two straps making it so you can make the work out harder or easier. I can see why you would have both the Jungle gym wouldn’t be as easy to take with you and use anywhere.
Hi Andrea,
The Jungle Gym XT is good for travel, but I think the TRX is better suited for it.
I find the JGXT works best on a straight horizontal bar where I can easily adjust the width of the anchor points.
Thanks for the comment…
I wish there were more fun workouts to do like this one. Working out can be so tedious and when you are tired from working all day the last thing you want to do is go workout, but if it was fun already I would look forward to it instead of having to force myself. And I don’t work out in the morning because I already get up a 4 a.m.
Ouch, 4 a.m. is an early start. Maybe try getting in a quick workout mid-day during your lunch hour.
When I’m feeling tired and really don’t want to workout, I often talk myself into just get moving for an “easy” workout. Usually, once started, I really get into it and the energy returns. And yes, fun is extremely important.
Take care Roosevelt…
I was just reading an article about the jungle gym suspension trainer that is about half the price of the TRX and it is supposed to be just as durable. I personally believe that you get what you pay for, but I have not tested either one so I really don’t know. I do know that they have one in the gym in my neighborhood so I’m going to try it before I buy one.
Hello Andre,
I have and use both the TRX (Military Version) and the Jungle Gym XT. Both are excellent quality and functionally the same.
I like the TRX as a mobile gym – for travel and taking my workouts outdoors. This is my favorite way to train. The Jungle Gym with the split design offers a bit more variety of movements and is set up in my basement workout area and stays there.
So, figure out how you’ll be using the suspension trainer and, like you mentioned, try one or both out first.
Regards,
So this contraption works by keeping part of your body suspended at all times during the different positions right? And that would definitely work your core because you are having to keep stabilized to do the exercise properly. It would be kind of like balancing in yoga takes your core to do it also. I can’t wait to try one of these out it actually looks like fun.
Hey Jack,
The TRX is a fun way to workout. And, you can use it for yoga as well. Check out the Yoga Fusion workout.
Cheers,
I tried this at the local YMCA and I love it. It was a difficult work out but because you are suspended it is actually fun as well. I recommend everyone try it at least once, I guarantee you will want to buy one then. Even though it is expensive it is still cheaper than a gym membership.
Hello Bill,
The fun part is key. Fun and enjoyment are so important to getting and staying fit. I think if more people had this focus, there would be a lot less demand for miracle weight loss programs and diets pills.
To me, there’s nothing better than taking my TRX down to the park in the early morning and setting up under an old poplar tree, running the trails along the river, or playing frisbee with the kids. All are fun and extremely enjoyable and I don’t need an ounce of encouragement to do it.
And yeah, I agree, just giving a suspension trainer a try will get many people hooked.
Thanks for the comment…
I just found out they have a TRX class in my small town at the recreational facility. I’m going to get signed up so that I can try this before I go out and buy one. That’s a hefty price tag for something that I haven’t used before and I don’t know if I’ll like it or not. Thank you for the reviews here I hope I like it as much as they have.
You’re welcome Robert and I think you’ll enjoy yourself…
This TRX suspension device seems very interesting to me. I wonder if this system enables you to do enough variety of exercises so that you can work every body part. Does anyone know how many different exercises this product is able to perform. This product is kind of like the resistance bands that let you do a surprising number of exercises. But is this really a suspension system? Do you actually lift your body weight?
Hello Darrell,
TRX marketing says 300+ exercises. I can’t verify that, but there is a lot and for every part of the body.
I’ve personally tried probably about 40 or 50 exercises in different combinations and I’m learning new ones all the time. The TRX, and suspension trainers in general, really are the most versatile piece of equipment I know of.
Suspension trainers are very different from resistance bands. Resistance bands stretch providing resistance. Suspension trainers don’t stretch. You support and lift varying degrees of your own body weight based on your body angle and position.
Hope this helps…
That is an excellent idea that I never thought of. Go to a gym and try one out before buying one and not liking the workout. I guess I didn’t realize that the gyms had these in them yet because I thought this was a really new thing. I watched the videos and the one that they are using the stick and swinging it is very interesting. Thank you for sharing.
Hello Joseph,
You’re referring to the TRX Rip trainer. It does look good.
I’ve actually ordered one and expect it any day now. Once I suss it out, I’ll be letting everyone know what I think.
I love the new gadgets…
I was pricing some of these on ebay and amazon yesterday and like you said I can’t tell what they look like if they are torn up or anything and they are still asking a pretty penny for them regardless. I would much rather get a new one that I can trust to hold when I am suspended. I really want one of these but I just can’t afford it right now.
Hey Robert,
If you’re the handy type, try searching YouTube for “homemade suspension trainer” or something like that. I had once seen a video of a fella building his own suspension trainer from supplies at Home Depot for about $20 or $25.
Normally, I wouldn’t suggest this, but if you have the know-how and can build something that’s not going to get you hurt, adding a suspension training component to any fitness routine is the important thing and well worth it. Just remember, safety first!
Best of luck…
Darin, thank you for taking the time to respond to Helen’s comment. I am looking for one a bit cheaper as well so this was advice I can use at the same time she can. And that is an excellent idea to go to a local gym or rec. center to try a workout class before buying one. I just didn’t know they had started any yet. Thanks for the idea.
My pleasure…
Basically this is all a body weight workout right? That is what you are resisting against isn’t it? That would really strengthen your core muscles as well. This looks kind of fun but it also looks like it would be really tough as well. I think I am going to find a gym that has these trainers in them and give it a try before spending the money, like you told Helen to do.
Hello Tommy,
Yes, suspension training is body weight based. However, there are some advanced workouts that incorporate weights or kettlebells. Workouts really are only limited to the imagination.
Finding a gym with some kind of suspension trainer shouldn’t be too hard. I’d be surprised if most didn’t have one for you to try. One rec center I visited had 4 TRX set up in a dedicated suspension training area for members to use. It was a great set up.
This looks like a fantastic work out and if it works for Drew Brees than it would definitely work for me. I would love to try one out but I just don’t have the $200 that they are asking for it. I need something different though because the same old work outs just aren’t working anymore and I still have results I would like to see.
Hello Helen,
Suspension trainers are an excellent workout, and I agree, the $200 price tag is a common deterrent.
Even though the TRX is the best-selling, it’s not the only model out there. Have a look at the Jungle Gym suspension trainer – about 1/2 the price.
Or even though it’s a bit of a gamble, you can try to find a used TRX on Ebay or Amazon. Just be careful about buying knock offs and counterfeit versions. To me, these are unsafe, unreliable, and not worth the savings.
Also, the best way to try one out is to take a suspension training class at a local gym or rec center.
Best of luck…
Is the propack the same as the pro kit?
Hello Jeff,
Yes, the Pro pack is essentially the same as the Pro Kit. They included the TRX door anchor attachment and changed the name to the TRX Pro Kit.
You here a lot about the TRX. It sounds pretty good, but I’m still not sure about ordering this.
Hey Michael,
That’s understandable – I’m the same way when it come to buying without trying first. I think many people are.
I would suggest taking a TRX fitness or boot camp class to see if you like this kind of workout. There are many of these classes around. Check out the TRX Directory Search to find a trainer or facility offering classes in your area.
Or, a lot of recreation facilities have TRX or other suspension trainers available. Drop in and see if they’ll demo it for you.
My wife had signed up for a class at our local rec center and that’s how we ended up a big fan of suspension training.
Good luck…
This was a very good review. I am very curious to try this system but I am going to have to see if I can find a slightly used one for less money on Craig’s list or Ebay. I found the video very informative and anything that Drew Brees uses to work out I want to use as well.
Hey Kyle,
New or used, these suspension trainers are a great tool. If you find a used one, I would suggest going with the “P2″ model as a first choice if possible. The “P2″ model was an improved model after the original TRX. It has a built-in stabilizer loop and a modified anchor strap that are handy improvements.
Also, beware of shady sites and sellers trying to pawn off counterfeits. If the price is ridiculously low, check further – seller rating, country of origin, etc.
Finally, a good alternative to the TRX and about half the price is the Jungle Gym XT trainer. Slightly different, but an excellent product. I own and use both the Jungle Gym and the TRX.
Good luck…
This looks very interesting, I watched the video and a lot of the moves they were doing are things that have been done on a stability ball before this came along. Do you think that this works you out more or about the same as a ball? Both are body weight exercises so I was wondering for those of us that can afford a $20 ball but not a $200 stretch band.
Hello Julius,
Actually, I had this same thought when my wife first told me about the TRX and wanted to get one.
I think both, the stability ball and suspension trainer have a place in anyone’s fitness toy box. Variety is all important.
However, comparing the TRX (or any suspension trainer) to a stability ball is like comparing a universal weight machine to a set of soup cans. Ok, that might be a bit exaggerated, but suspension trainers can do a lot more.
First, the list of possible movements and variations is far greater with suspension trainers. For example, any explosive movement, rowing motion, pressing movement, lunges, bicep or tricep exercises are pretty limited, if not non-existent with a stability ball.
Second, suspension trainers have a greater range of motion. When you perform a movement on a stability ball, you’re only using about 15 to 25% of the circumference of the ball before gravity kicks in and you’re past the tipping point. Depending on the ball, this is about 10 to 18 inches of movement. Suspension trainers don’t have a tipping point, so your range of motion is only limited by own strength and flexibility. Exercising with your full range of motion is one of the key reasons these trainers are so effective.
Third, try taking a stability ball along during a trip to the park or on vacation. Very inconvenient.
Last, just to clarify, suspension trainer straps don’t stretch.
Thanks for the question – take care.
Sounds like a winner for us travelers. Probably get some looks from airport security with strange straps and handles in the luggage, but worth it I guess…lol
Too funny. Now, I’ll be wondering if security thinks I’m some kind of deviant. Thanks:)
Hi Darin– when was the last time you traveled with a trx through security? I’m traveling next week on a 3 week trek and would like to bring it with me. thanks!
Hello Scott,
I traveled to Anaheim from Canada at the end of last March. I pack my TRX in my checked luggage and never had any problems during 30+ trips.
Enjoy your trek – sounds great!
Darin
Hey Guys, Great review. I tried the TRX in a bootcamp class a few weeks ago and loved it! I think it’s time to pick one up while the sale lasts.
Thanks again for the info.