TRX Suspension Training is for Everyone!!

      What is TRX Suspension training, you ask? Well, it's the simplest piece of equipment you'll ever use and it's also the most versatile. Basically, it's a piece of sewn webbing with two handles, a couple of carabiners and a daisy chain for adjusting length and anchoring. It can be set up just about anywhere and it takes about 2 seconds to set it up and begin a workout.
      I've been using this system in my own workouts and with all my clients for a couple of years and I recently started teaching a couple of group TRX classes in Oakland and Albany. One concern that's come up more than once already from potential class goers is if they need to already be in good physical condition to participate in a TRX class. If you've seen photos or heard others talk about TRX training, I understand that it can look a bit intimidating, but unlike something like CrossFit, TRX training can actually be done by anyone, any age, with any fitness level.
      The biggest reason for this is that it's so easy to modify or change a movement using the TRX system. And, when used correctly with a little guidance there's a lot less risk for injury or further injury if you use if for rehabilitation. For example, a client comes to me with a history of knee pain and is having difficulty strengthening the leg muscles because of it. We can use the TRX suspension trainer to do an exercise like a squat, but by using this system the client can take some weight off by pulling on it while at the same time they still have to stabilize their knee and hip joints with their own 'body tension' or core strength. Even if they're not able to move through the range of motion for a squat, the can still engage the muscles with very little stress on the joint and over time can build the strength and increase the function.
     Of course, most people thinking about trying a group class don't usually have issues like that, it may just be that they don't exercise regularly and think that it would be too hard for them. Well, I'm here to tell you now that it truly doesn't matter what condition you may be in. TRX workouts can be as difficult as you want to make them by making very simple changes in position, but they can also be as doable as necessary for your individual needs. And, with a good instructor that knows how to help you find what's right for you there's no reason not to give it a try.
      As with any class, the instructor can make it or break it. If they ignore your needs to modify or make you do things that are too hard for you or don't help you to learn proper form, you're not likely to want to try group classes. Now, I'm not really trying to toot my own horn here, but I am saying to come and try out a TRX class with me so that you can know for yourself that it's not something that's only for the fit athlete or the well conditioned. That I will make sure you learn how to use it and start out with only what you can handle and build from that. No pressure, no judgement, no expectations except to work up a bit of a sweat!
      I hope to see you soon in one of my classes!