TRX, what is this amazing idea that someone came up with that has everyone so eager to try it at least once? This contraption is an equipment used for those of us who either prefer using our own body weight or want to do something more advanced without the use of weights. I was first introduced to the TRX last semester of college in my exercise science class and at first I thought “okay, this looks like it belongs in the circus and I most likely am not going to be able to do any of these workouts using it” because I have gotten to the point where I was becoming more comfortable with free weights and have had experience with using the machines; this equipment intimidated me!
I was probably the only one in the classroom at the time who had no idea as to what it was and what it was used for, all I knew was it was something that had to do with exercise and that sounded pretty good to me at the time. When my professor explained this TRX and had us do the exercises (beginner-advanced); some of them I did pretty well doing and others.. it was fairly embarrassing and my form was always off. I have to admit, out of everyone in the class during the time, I was the only one having difficulties warming up to this TRX. I felt as though for some reason, I didn’t understand it and it frustrated me because I wanted to be “good” at it but I just couldn’t for whatever get things down.
At the end of the lesson that day, I had decided that this was probably going to be the only time I ever use it or want to use it because I had decided I am not good at it and I would much rather save myself the frustrations and anger. Well newsflash, this semester I am going to be using it again for my client and I haven’t yet prepared myself for what is to come on Tuesday but I have decided that I am determined to get certain exercises correct and to work on my form because I know the TRX is a good idea for this particular client and I want them to get the most out of their workout. Of course, if my client decides that this isn’t something they are interested in or have issues with it then I will make the necessary changes as we go along. I know for sure that Tuesday morning I am going to show up to class fairly early and practice on the TRX any movements/exercises I will be having my client do because I am going to need to demonstrate these same exercises in order for them to understand the form and technique and I will have to be confident while doing it so that it seems that I know what I am doing without question.
So with this all being said and done, I will keep everyone posted about this particular situation sometime in the next week hopefully. I mainly wanted to talk about the good things that revolve around the TRX and how the gentlemen who created it, probably made one of life’s best inventions; and even though I struggle with this, it doesn’t mean I don’t think it is beneficial and I want others whom haven’t yet tried this, to do so because I want people to be open minded to other things and workouts using a variety of equipment; especially if you are in the fitness industry as a personal trainer or instructor of some sorts. Down below I have listed some of the benefits of using the TRX and keep in mind the TRX equipment works the same but can look different depending on the size.
TRX (total body resistance exercise)
- Incorporates nearly every muscle of the human body (core activation is one of the most important aspects)
- The workouts can range from simple to more advanced; and you can complete a total body workout using one piece of equipment in 20 minutes
- The straps are mobile, you can take them everywhere with you and attach them anywhere.
- TRX is safe if done correctly
- It is for anyone, you can be a yoga instructor, personal trainer, runner, cyclist, swimmer, ect. The TRX isn’t for any one specific person, it can be used no matter the type of activities you partake in.
- Beginner friendly
- Cardio-strength training connection. You can do both using the TRX, it isn’t just limited to one or the other (raises heartbeat and helps build muscle)
- beats boredom, you can a various amount of exercises you can do at all times and you have a choice in the matter as to how hard or easy you want to make them
Now, does this mean it doesn’t have any cons? No. As a matter of fact, many scientist are proving this TRX to be less effective then using weights. It depends on how you look at it and how hard you work your muscles and what you expect to get out of it. Would I recommend to someone to ditch the weights and start up TRX, no, I would recommend that one should do both for no other reason than because it will allow for you to change up your routine and try something different every once in awhile. Not many gyms offer the TRX but if you know a place that offers classes or has one at their location, I highly recommend that you try it at least once; you may or may not like it. I, personally still enjoy free weights and want to continue working out using free weights and machines, and I already know I am hardly close to good at using the TRX but I could get better if I practiced and possibly took classes; just I don’t have that readily available at my disposal. I do like how versatile the TRX is and how many lower functioning clients enjoy it more so because they aren’t confident in lifting weights yet and I enjoy the fact it is something you can take on the go with you. The downside for me is having to adjust the straps for certain exercises ( I have a hard time remembering), the feeling that the exercise isn’t doing much for me because I don’t feel a “burn” and the fact that I don’t own one to practice with and of course the fact I have a hard time taking direction for the TRX.
I want to know everyone else’s opinion of the TRX, do you use it? do you like it? or no, would you recommend it? what exercises do you like to do? why do you use it or why don’t you like it? Share with me all of your opinions and comments. Like I said, I am horrible at the TRX for the most part and can only do about 3 or 4 exercises correctly with no issues but I like the reasons behind using one but because of my lack of confidence when I use it, I wouldn’t make it my “go to” when I am at the gym or something I would normally train someone on unless I was able to demonstrate the exercises correctly and confidently.
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Sincerely,
Your blogger Shay-lon
Be the best version of you 
Hello, dear 🙂
I´m a certified TRX trainer and IFBB personal trainer. Generally speaking, I prefer free weights. But some TRX exercises are great as well as safe.
If you don´t nail an exercise or if you have many clients (I hope so), go for the easiest way to perform the exercise.
My personal reasons to use TRX: functional movement (bodybuilding is too much focus on weight), safer exercises (some, like squats, rows…) to teach beginners the proper technique, and I like to add TRX exercises to a regular weightlifting workout for an extra burn.
Keep practicing, you can do it 🙂
Big hug, David
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Hello! That is awesome, thank you for sharing this information with me. I plan on being a part of this fitness industry (partly already in it) I would love to talk to more about being a personal trainer and what have you, because I need someone who will hold me accountable and help me achieve some goals I have in mind 🙂 I appreciate the encouragement!
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You are most welcome!
If you want to talk about anything, you know how to find me 😀
What do you have in mind?
Big hug, David
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Sorry, it has been awhile since getting back to you. I am a college student, so my schedule gets hectic at times. Anyways, I am on a personal path to become something great in this fitness industry , when I graduate I want to have clients lined up.. I have tons of questions, first one being .. how did you accumulate clients? did you start off by working at a gym, or did you go off on your own, did you use social media..? ect.
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Don´t worry, no need to explain 🙂
Ambitious… I like you 😀
But we need to clarify your goals, dear.
Are you waiting for any student to hire her/him as your doctor/lawyer/teacher? Me neither 🙂 Be patient.
I started at a gym, where the boss and clients were happy with me. An old basket coach of mine asked me for help with the team, and the kids did it great! Step by step, dear 🙂 Your work will speak for you, loud and clear!
What kind of clients do you like?
I don´t accumulate clients. I don´t like it. I help them to reach their goals, and I teach them to train safe. Sometimes I fail, but usually they recommend me to their friends, co-workers, teammates… That´s how it worked for me, for years. I have some testimonials to translate 🙂
Honestly, I started to work before social media. Now, I use them because I only train online. I know, I´m unusual, and I like unusual clients. So, again, what kind of clients do you like?
Hugs, David
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My goals are to be a personal trainer, wellness coach, and become a fitness mogul in the industry. I want to start off working at a gym, then become my own contractor in the industry or just become my own contractor; I want to work with the general population and athletes.
So word of mouth works? makes sense, right now I am using social media to gain more followers so people will keep me in mind.
How do you train online? what made you decide to train online, I like clients that want to work hard for what they want and will hate me at the end of their workout because I pushed them beyond their comfort zones and limits.
do you like who you are certified through?
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Yes, word of mouth works!
I train online with my own training method, including my own tests, etc. I had to pay and pass an audit to register it.
I had tested some “pro” apps before, and I knew I could do it better 🙂
Now I have clients in New York, Detroit, Helsinki, Madrid, Barcelona, and some other galician towns. I don´t offer face classes anymore, because I´m tired of babysitting and cheerleading rich and lazy people.
Real case:
Q: What´s your goal in three months?
A: Live 90 days.
I remember my exact words: “Motherfucker, don´t bother me again”.
If you contact me online for personal training, you are not looking for a babysitter or a cheerleader. Instead, you´re looking for a plan according to your needs, and you need some help and support (which doesn´t mean counting reps with the client 😀 ).
I like my certifications because they´re globally recognized (IFBB, TRX), but like anything else, you learn doing. In my opinion, the best certification is an open mind 🙂
Big hug, David
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David,
That is truly amazing you found your niche in being able to help multiple people in different areas of the world!
I can understand the frustrations when people have the money to use a personal trainer but are too lazy to do the workouts because in their minds they made the first step and now they don’t feel like going any further. Ridiculous to say the least but this is why I plan on changing much of that in my own way If I can. I am going to look into the IFBB certification on my downtime since I have yet to hear of this one, I plan on getting certified before May but I am almost sure I won’t at this rate with school and work.. ha. so I will be just as happy after May.
I like that “the best certification is an open mind”; never heard this saying used before but I like it.
Shay-lon
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Hi, Shay-lon 🙂
I´m really pleased to meet you here! You are clever, ingenious, inquisitive, ambitious, active and inspiring.
Let´s forget the frustrations, I´ve already done 🙂
Don´t expect too much from the certification, I mean,I´m sure it will be easy for you: training principles, nutrition, a little bit of marketing… not a big deal 🙂
There was this debate in college, why do you study?Knowledge or certifications? I´m keeping my opinion through these years, I prefer open minds 🙂
Big hug, David
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I am happy that I had a chance to meet you here as well, it is amazing how I have a chance to write about fitness and as well meet people who have like minded careers, thoughts, and or share some insight with me about this these particular topics. You seem to be just as clever as I & have some of the same qualities I would look for in a friend. I appreciate the handful of comments and if anything else, I would love to keep in touch and hear from you because something tells me you will be of great help down the road if not early on.
I imagine myself getting weak in the knees when I think of taking the certification, but I know it has to be done sometime and what a better time then now in life while all of this is fresh in my brain. right?
how long did it take you to study before you were finally able to take the test?
Thank you for the kind words,
Shay-lon
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Dear, I’m pleased to meet you and flattered for your kind words! I’m here for anything you need, I don’t have all the answers but I made a lot of mistakes you can learn from 🙂
I imagine yourself getting the certification. Period! Doubts and struggles are part of the journey, don’t freak out 😉
To calm you down, I should not answer your last question 🙂 There are several tests and a case study (free goals) once you pass them. But you are already working with real clients so, where is the big deal? 😀
Big hug, David
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