TRX®

TRX® Suspension Training isn’t exactly new.  I’ve been considering adding it to our arsenal where I work but it took some convincing from my new graduate assistant to make it happen.  While I have spent the last few months purchasing it and getting it installed, I had yet to go and give it a try myself – until recently.

TRX® Suspension Training is hard to explain without actually seeing it.  I have attached some pictures of myself participating. I loathe having my picture taken – but since I’m not actually looking at the camera, I guess I can deal with it.  The TRX® website has a guy you may have heard of, Drew Brees, using it in a video on their website.  I think he might have been an MVP of something, somewhere.  Just kidding.  I am a huge fan of his since his days at Purdue.  Anyway…

I really enjoyed using the TRX® and definitely see what a great training tool it is and the potential it has.  Here is my pro/con list on what I thought of it:

Pros

• Versatility:  It can be used pretty much anywhere and has virtually unlimited amount of exercise options.  It also allows you to modify exercises for different client types and abilities.
• Made with high quality.
• Can be used with clients one-on-one or in group setting (if you have the equipment).
• It was fairly affordable to purchase multiple trainers and install them in a commercial/recreation center setting.

Cons

• Although the manufacturer doesn’t necessarily require it, I feel that some experience with strength training is necessary.  In my opinion,  I think that a beginner could definitely get hurt if they don’t have the motor skills or physical strength to do even simple exercises.  Good form is essential and this product requires a greater degree of skill than most.
• It’s expensive for an individual.   At $200 you get the TRX®  Suspension Trainer, Basic Training DVD, A Workout Guide, 2 bonus workouts: TRX® Endurance Circuit & TRX® Metabolic Blast, the TRX® Door Anchor, a Mesh Carrying Bag, a Suspension Anchor, and the famous “Workout in Progress” Safety Placard

Having said all of that, I do like this training tool. I am considering becoming certified as a TRX® instructor.  One of the most attractive aspects of becoming certified is that there isn’t a hefty continuing education cost/process..  As I have talked about certifications in the past, something to think about when considering a new certification is whether or not the demand for TRX® is growing.  I would say the answer is yes.  Other things to consider include:  does it meet your skill and knowledge set?   Is it an opportunity to grow your income?

Although there are more, the few  certifications that I am considering include:

TRX® Suspension Training Course – Level 1 $295.00
Learn the fundamentals of TRX® Suspension Training® bodyweight exercise and how to incorporate them into your personal training practice in this introductory eight-hour course.

TRX® Group Suspension Training Course – Level 1 $295.00
Learn the fundamentals of TRX® Suspension Training® bodyweight exercise and how they can expand your monetary potential and enhance the way you teach group fitness with this one-day, introductory course.

TRX® Sports Medicine Training Course – Level 2  $350.00
This course teaches you how to incorporate TRX® Suspension Training® bodyweight exercise as part of your individualized or group therapy, post-rehabilitation, prevention, and fitness programs.

TRX® has been marketing their Rip Trainer product and certification as well. I will have to get to that in a future blog post!