Originally developed by former Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick, out of parachute webbing, as a way for him and his comrades to stay fit on covert missions, TRX was an instant hit, prompting Hetrick to launch a company around the product. So came what is now the TRX Suspension Training system: two adjustable straps that hang from a single point on the ceiling (or over a door jam) with loops and handles on the ends to allow your feet to hook on to or your hands to hold on to.
Designed for small spaces and limited time (perfect for all of us in small apartments, with stressful lives), the TRX system uses your own bodyweight to create resistance without the need for any other equipment. And, unlike traditional weight training, encourages multi-planar training, forcing you to use a large range of muscles for each exercise, thus giving you a total body workout in shorter period of time. Not even to mention that there are over 300 exercises that can be performed, ensuring you, and your muscles, never get bored.
While you can buy the TRX Suspension Training System and accompanying DVDs online, for the non-military or professional athlete looking to use it, it is recommended that you begin with a trainer since figuring what to do with these hanging straps can be a bit tricky. Lucky for you, High Performance Gym has brought this military-worthy workout to New York. This intimate gym, designed for use primarily with personal trainers, is the perfect place to get your TRX fix, especially since there is no membership fee (just pay the trainer).
After training with co-founder Elizabeth Burwell on Wednesday, I’m still sore.
Matt Damon also trains with TRX at High Performance, so don’t be surprised if you leave with a superstar body.
TRX Suspension Trainer Professional System, $149.95, fitnessanywhere.com
High Performance Gym, 39 West 14th Street, Suite 406, New York, New York 10011, (212) 675-2777, highperformancenyc.com
