What is TRX Suspension Training?

Have you ever heard of suspension training?


Yeah, I hadn't either until last week when I had my first TRX workout. 

TRX Suspension Training is a type of workout system that was born in the Navy SEALs and focuses on using bodyweight and gravity to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability. 

Last week I did some personal training with my running coach, Coach Ann of Resolute Running. After doing some warm-up exercises and throwing around a kettle bell in ways I didn't think possible, we moved to the TRX Suspension Trainer. 

How harmless the TRX Suspension Trainer appears as it innocently hangs from the ceiling. The kid in you even wants to try it out. You think it will even be fun! 

Then you slip in your feet and suddenly you're convinced that the T in TRX stands for torture. 

Just kidding. (Not really.)

With TRX, which really stands for Total Body Resistance Exercise, you'll do exercises you've probably done before but in a way that will feel fresh and new. We did, for example, squats, lunges, bicep curls, tricep extensions, push-ups, planks and more. I've done all these moves a countless number of times, but never before had they felt so challenging. 

With TRX you can get a full body workout without picking up a single weight. We worked my arms, legs, glutes, and core. I think even my toes got a workout! 

When driving home it took herculean effort to lift my foot from the accelerator to the brake because my quadriceps were so tired. The next day I was limping around my classroom and down the hall of my school. I was grunting and groaning every time I had to pick up something on the floor. My core was so sore that it hurt to laugh, sneeze or even take a deep breath. 

But don't let all that scare you away. It was the good hurt. Seriously. It was as if I could feel my muscles getting stronger and more defined as they recovered throughout the day. And the best thing about TRX workouts is that you have control of how much you challenge yourself. If an exercise seems to be too much all you have to do is adjust the position of your body to decrease the resistance. 

And TRX suspension training is great for runners. 

"TRX Suspension training focuses on total body strength, balance, flexibility, and stability," Coach Ann explained.   "The emphasis on single-leg training and constant core engagement helps prevent injury and is an invaluable tool for runners.  Plus, the side benefit of a trim and toned stomach for swimswuit season doesn’t hurt."

Resolute Running is the only TRX qualified facility in Birmingham. If you're interested in trying out TRX Suspension training at Resolute Running, click here for a class schedule and to register.  


Disclosure: I attended this personal training session free-of-charge for the purposes of reviewing it for my blog. All opinions are my own.