Looking for a workout that challenges your entire body without the need for heavy weights? TRX suspension training might be the answer.
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, suspension training offers a unique and effective way to build strength, stability, and endurance—all using just your body weight and a pair of straps.
What is TRX suspension training?
TRX suspension training is a form of bodyweight exercise developed by former Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick. Created to keep his team mission-ready while on deployment, suspension trainers use adjustable straps anchored to a fixed point (the anchor point), allowing you to leverage gravity and your body weight to perform numerous exercises.
What makes it so versatile is its simplicity. By simply changing your body’s angle relative to the anchor point, you can adjust the intensity of your workout in real time. This flexibility makes the suspension trainer suitable for all fitness levels.
The benefits of suspension training
Save time with compound exercises
One of the standout features of suspension training is its ability to engage multiple muscle groups at once (compound exercises). It recruits your entire body to perform exercises, which means you get an effective workout that optimises your time. For example, a TRX plank not only strengthens your core but also engages your shoulders, glutes, and legs at the same time.
A focus on core strength
When it comes to core strength, suspension training is hard to beat. Whether you’re gripping the handles or placing your feet in the cradles, your core is constantly working to stabilise your body. Over time, this leads to improved balance, posture, and overall strength.
"I personally used to struggle with lower back pain due to a desiccated disc, but after a few months of combining suspension training alongside traditional weight lifting, my core was stronger, and the pain alleviated."
Progressive overload made easy
Progressive overload—the key to building muscle and strength—isn’t just for the gym. With suspension training, you can progressively challenge your muscles by adjusting your body’s angle, changing your stance, or even adding a weighted vest. It’s a dynamic way to keep your workouts challenging and effective without needing to lift heavy (and sometimes intimidating) weights.
Cost-effective and portable
Setting up a home gym can be expensive, but suspension training offers a budget-friendly alternative. All you need is a TRX Suspension Trainer and a secure anchor point, making it a flexible, one-time investment. Plus, suspension trainers are highly portable, perfect if you like to take your workouts outdoors or frequently travel.
Which type of training is right for you?
Choosing between suspension training and traditional weightlifting depends on your goals and preferences. TRX is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a versatile, full-body workout that can be done anywhere. It’s especially beneficial for those who want to improve core strength, stability, and functional fitness.
However, if your primary goal is to build significant muscle mass or isolate specific muscle groups, traditional weightlifting may be more suitable. The good news? You don’t have to choose one over the other.
"I find that incorporating both suspension training and traditional weightlifting into a routine provides the best of both worlds and I love combining functional work and traditional compound lifts to increase my strength and muscle mass."
Want to try TRX suspension training?
If you’re curious about TRX suspension training and want to see what it’s all about, why not try it for yourself? We offer weekly trial sessions in Tanjong Pagar, Singapore, led by a TRX-certified trainer. These small-group sessions are designed to be accessible for beginners while providing a challenge.
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