TRX Workouts: The Benefits And Best Exercises To Try

Whether you’re already familiar with the intricacies of the TRX rig, or wary of that strange equipment hanging in the corner of the gym, it’s likely you’ll have at least thought about giving it a swing. But, honestly, how many of us can really say we know how to maximize this unique form of training without looking like a newb?

For the uninitiated, TRX is a form of suspension training that uses body weight exercises to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability all at the same time. It’s a great way to mix up your routine, and perhaps the most satisfying piece of equipment you can introduce to your standard workouts.

Especially if you’re into functional training, because it’s the ideal bit of kit for working through the 10 key foundational movements: plank, pull, push, rotate, hinge, squat, lunge, crawl, twist and step – all of which can help you stay strong and flexible, whether your 9-5 is at a desk or on a rugby field.

Studies suggest that TRX training also promotes an increase in growth hormone and a decrease in the stress hormone cortisol. Yes, TRX is good for a bit of gym bro posturing, but it’s also beneficial for so much else. With that in mind, we asked Matt Gleed, TRX Senior Master Trainer, to talk us through what your body will get from hanging tough in the rig.

The Benefits Of TRX Training

Multi-plane Movement

“When using the TRX, you are working from a single anchor point which forces the body to recruit muscles across all planes,” says Gleed. Basically, the TRX equipment creates dynamic instability, meaning you’ll need to manually re-centre yourself through activating some of those under-appreciated muscles, which can help boost performance as well as physique.

“Rotational and diagonal movements through the transverse plane are common in sports, but less practiced in gyms,” Gleed explains. Adapt your training to reap rewards.