Turbo-boost your cross training with TRX

As you know, it’s important to include both strength and cardio workouts in your overall fitness plan. Cardio sessions increase your endurance and stamina levels, while strength training builds and stabilizes muscles required to successfully complete a run on a home treadmill or a ride on a home exercise bike.

When considering home gym equipment, cardio like a True PS800 Home Treadmill and a True ES700 Home Recumbent Bike are crucial, but what do you do for strength? A great option is to cross-train with TRX.

What is TRX?
TRX was developed by Navy SEALs as a way to stay in shape in the field. It’s suspension training, which involves doing bodyweight exercises to work on strength, balance, core stability and flexibility at the same time. The TRX consists of nylon straps and handles that can be anchored to a door or stationary object, and it can be adjusted to accommodate different heights. All regular body weight exercises can be performed with the use of a TRX, and they’re amplified by the additional resistance created by the equipment.

TRX Exercises
Squat: Hold one TRX handle in each hand, stepping back until there’s tension on the TRX. Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Push your weight into your heels and slowly lower down like your sitting in a chair until your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle. Then, return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.

Bicep Curl: The TRX should be at mid-length. Start holding one handle in each hand with your elbows bent, hands next to ears, palms facing in. Lean your body back and straighten your elbows, holding tension in the TRX straps and keeping your abs tight. Then, return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.

Plank: You’ll start by putting one or both feet into the handles with the tops of your feet facing down. Push up into a plank position either on your hands or forearms. Keep your abs tight and back flat. Hold the stance for 30 to 60 seconds.

Row: Start by holding one handle in each hand with your arms extended and body leaning back. Pull your body up while bending your elbows and pulling them to your sides, keeping your core tight. Then return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.

As you get more comfortable, you can advance with the moves and add in balance work for each exercise.