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TRX is a company that makes a specialized type of exercise apparatus--which actually is tremendously versatile. With some advice and ingenuity, you can use it to perform up to 300 different types of exercises! “TRX” stands for “total resistance extreme” or “total resistance exercises”. The idea for the apparatus came from former Navy SEAL, Randy Hetrick, who was looking for a novel way to perform the standard exercises. Instead of lifting weights, the apparatus uses a person’s own weight, plus gravity, to achieve results. Different exercises can tone different groups of muscles--and can fill in as a substitute for the standard sit-ups, push-ups, and pull-ups.
Since 2004 and the first marketable version of the TRX trainer, there have been even courses and fitness centers dedicated to teaching how to use it. You can find a number of companies that have copied the idea, adding a few modifications to the parts and features. We’ve composed this buyer’s guide to help you make the right decision when selecting a TRX strap. It'll help you:
Choose the right type of TRX strap,
See useful tips about that particular type of TRX strap,
Read reviews of different TRX straps, and what customers are saying,
Select the right brand of TRX strap, and
Compare prices and find the best deals.
The entire TRX apparatus is referred to as a “suspension trainer”. It is composed of a series of sections.
TRX Suspension Trainer Setup
Let’s study some of the sections of the most basic package, the Home2 Suspension Trainer, in greater depth:
Door Anchor--This is a strap that you hook up to the suspension anchor, to allow you to attach your TRX strap to the top of a door. The door must be from solid wood, or from metal. The door anchor is specially designed so as not to scratch the door or damage the paint. But it lets you do exercise anywhere you find an appropriate door.
TRX Door Anchor
Ceiling Mount--This is a 4.5” diameter metal disc that you attach to a wall, vertical beam, or ceiling. You then screw it into place. You then insert the suspension anchor strap through the mount.
TRX Ceiling Mount
Suspension anchor--This is a yellow strap with a carabiner (= an oval-shaped metal loop) on each end. The strap has slots in it, called “intermediate anchor loops”, into which you can slip in the strap to the desired length. If you are working out outdoors, you can attach this strap to a tree trunk or branch. If you’re indoors, you can attach it to a sturdy horizontal beam.
TRX Suspension Anchor
Main Locking Carabiner and Adjustable Strap: There is a main carabiner on the other end of the suspension anchor. You then attach a long, black adjustable strap. The strap can be set to your desired length, depending on your height and skill level. You then attach the handles/foot cradles to the ends of these black straps--one handle on each end of the strap.
Main Locking Carabiner
Adjustable Strap, with handles
Foam handles/foot cradles: The part of the strap where you insert your hands has a padded handle for comfort. If the exercise requires that you insert your foot, the handle can readily be modified into a foot cradle.
TRX Strap Foam Handle
TRX Foot Cradle
Upgrades: Once you’ve mastered the level of the Home2 System, TRX offers more intense apparatus:
TRX Pro4: This has a carabiner that can withstand much heavier loads, an equalizer to maintain even length to the straps, and antimicrobial materials. It is geared for trainers and coaches, who will be working with professional athletes.
TRX Tactical Gym: This is for implementing a 12-week conditioning program, with instructional DVDs and mobile phone apps to tutor you along the way.
Note maximum bearing weight: Take note of the maximum weight that you can use on the TRX straps--exceeding the weight can cause the carabiner or strap to snap. For example, the ZHSD Suspension Training Apparatus can bear up to 300 kg.
Don’t use in a way that can damage the straps: When using the TRX system (or its equivalent) using the door anchor, make sure that the straps do not get caught in between the door and the doorframe. This can wear down the strap over time, compromising its strength.
TRX system better for people suffering from wrist pain: One person who could no longer perform push-ups and weighted ring dips was able to find an equivalent exercise using the TRX system. The handles were also more comfortable.
Attach the TRX to a secure anchor point: For your safety, you have to attach the TRX straps to a secure point that won’t move in the middle of exercising. You can hook up the suspension anchor on the top edge of a door, a weight rack, a tree, or a stable beam.
TRX Strength Bands: There are also “strength bands”, which increase the intensity of your exercises. They are graded by how much you want to increase the workload, with straps that are rated XX-Lite, X-Lite, Lite, Medium, and Heavy. You can wrap them around your heel or knees, to intensify your stretches.
Workout area: The workout area should measure 8 feet long by 6 feet wide, to allow you adequate room for all of your stretches. Make sure that the floor is flat and not slippery. The anchor should between 7-9 feet off the ground, and strong enough to support your body weight.
Mesh carrying bag: When you buy a TRX Trainer, you get a mesh carrying pouch to pack away the parts and carry them with you. This way, you’ll be able to maintain your exercise routine pretty much anywhere!
Beware of imitations: There are imitations of the TRX apparatus, and people have noticed how dangerous it can be if a carabiner or strap breaks. Depending on the exercise you are doing, it can cause serious injury!
GoFit is a fitness equipment company based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Besides making straps for a resistance training system, they also make weights and weightlifting accessories, kettlebells, mats, exercise apparel, and much more.
TRX Training was founded in 2005 and is based in San Francisco, California. The company was founded by former Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick. The company manufactures a number of straps that allow you to exercise just employing gravity and your body weight. The straps can be employed for exercising different parts of your body, in hundreds of types of exercises.
ZHSD is a retailer of a number of devices for fitness training. They make suspension straps with wall mount brackets, chest expanders, Pilates rings, and ab rollers. They also make gym apparel, such as headbands and knee straps.
NOSSK stands for “No Ordinary Suspension System Kits”. They make a number of training and fitness devices. They make rope trainers, pulley trainers, strap trainers, and more.They are located in Antioch, California.