TRX Suspension Trainer – an In-Depth Review

Disclosure: We may receive compensation from the companies whose products we review if you click through our affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Today I want to talk about the TRX suspension trainer family of products.  TRX suspension trainers have been around for several years and are one of my favorites suspension training options. In this TRX Review, we’ll cover how suspension trainers work, TRX exercises, where to buy a TRX and more.

About TRX Suspension Training

Navy SEAL Squadron Commander Randy Hetrick developed the original system using a Jiu-Jitsu belt and parachute webbing, as a way to stay in shape while in remote areas of the world.  TRX has come a long way since then.

TRX training suspension system one of the most effective full-body trainers on the market. You can find suspension trainers in gyms and studios; they are also perfect for working out at home.

First, I will discuss TRX, and how you can use the bands and straps to get a full-body workout. Then, I will walk through a few of the different models that are available and discuss the component that each model includes. The different trainers work very much the same, but each model will have some different features.

Working out with a TRX Suspension Trainer

You will use the TRX Suspension Trainer with a secure elevation point, such as a door, a tree branch, a tree trunk, or beam.  You want to make sure the point you are anchoring to is secure. Ideally, it is nice to have the anchor point about eight feet off the ground, but not critical. TRX Suspension Trainer - Straps and Anchor Point

TRX suspension training is great for core, which is something that I am very passionate about. Always looking for great ways to improve core strength, I found the TRX suspension system to provide a great workout.

Full-body movement

Since the movements are dynamic and you have to keep yourself stable while performing these movements, you will keep your core engaged during these full-body movements.

I love training that is off balance; it really makes me focus and concentrate on the exercise at hand.  This type of movement helps build not only strength but also flexibility.

No matter what your fitness level, beginner or pro athlete, you can benefit from the TRX.  It makes you move your body differently than just pushing a barbell, or lifting a dumbbell.  If nothing else, this will make you change up your workout and add a new element.

Grip

My experience has been very positive using the TRX Suspension Training system.  One thing I would warn you, at least this is something I noticed, is grip strength.  When I first started, I noticed that moving in a fluid motion from one exercise to the next; my hands didn’t get much of a break.  I did notice my grip was a little weak when I started out.  If your grip starts to fail a little bit, don’t worry about it, your grip will improve with time, but that is something to keep in mind.

Resistance

Also, I noticed that a lot of the upper body, push, pull motions require a good amount of shoulder strength. Of course, that is the beautiful thing about the TRX system is that by just moving your body closer or further from the anchor point, you can change the resistance just like that.

So, if you are a beginner, you can have less resistance starting out, which will allow you to grow into the suspension trainer as well.

That is one thing that is so awesome about this product; it is portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go.  All you need is a sturdy door, a tree, a chin-up bar on a playground, and you are good to go.

TRX Suspension Trainer exercises

There’s so many exercises that you can do with this system. You can work your upper body, lower body, back and core. The possibilities are pretty much endless for workout options.

Here’s just a few of the exercises you can do with TRX:

  • Bicep curls
  • Core
  • Inverted Rows
  • Lunges
  • Pushups
  • Tricep extensions
  • Upright row

TRX Suspension Trainer Workout

TRX System components and setup

Door jam – To set you TRX up using a door jam, you will use the included door anchor.  The door anchor fits snugly over the top of any door.  It fits right in between the top of the door itself and the door jam.  You will need to make sure the door closes nice and tight.

Ideally, you want to use an exterior door that doesn’t have a hollow core.  You don’t have to use a solid core door, but ideally, that is the best-case scenario.  Using a hollow or solid core door depends on how much you weigh and the quality of the door.

One more thing too,  you want to have the door hanger to the side where the hinges are.  This is one more step to make sure the TRX is anchored nice and tight, where the door will be the strongest.

The door anchor is nicely padded, and the ribbed webbing strap goes over the top of the door so it will not damage the door.  You also want to have the system set-up so that you are working out on the side of the door that closes.

If you would like to attach the trainer permanently, you can purchase the extra mounting kit and attach the trainer to the wall or ceiling.

TRX Suspension Anchor

You can use any other sturdy and tall anchor point, including a tree, or a jungle gym at your local park.  The included suspension anchor allows you to wrap this thing around just about anything you want.  The suspension anchor has sewn-in notches which help you get the right height for your trainer.  You wrap the suspension anchor around a secure object, then attach the TRX trainer to the suspension anchor.

TRX Straps

The TRX straps are composed of industrial-grade webbing, sewn together with a heavy gauge bonded nylon thread, which is double-stitched for strength and durability.  These straps are meant to last a lifetime.

 

TRX straps are adjustable in length so that you can get just the right fit.  Adjustable handles are also great for multiple users.

One example of adjusting the strap is when you want to use the foot cradle for an exercise, like pushups.  When you are standing up straight next to the TRS straps, you would want to have the foot cradles hit at about your mid-calf.  Using this guideline will give you an idea of what length you would want the straps to be, for any exercises where you are going to use the foot cradle.

The weight limit is 350 pounds for all TRX systems

TRX Bands

TRX Exercise Bands allow you to set variable amounts of resistance for your workout. TRX says they are “perfect for low-impact training, rehabilitation, stretching and mobility.” There are four TRX Bands available, each with a different level of resistance.

TRX Band Color Resistance Level
Yellow Extra Light (X-Lite)
Orange Light (Lite)
Grey Medium
Black Heavy

TRX Bands can be bought individually or as a complete set.

Handles

There are a couple of different styles of handles that I will get into in the product descriptions below, but the basic set up of the handles is a plastic cylinder core with an outer foam cover for a comfortable grip.

Also, the handles also have a foot cradle attached, made from the same webbing.  So you have the plastic core handle for your hands, and then the foot cradle can be used for a ton of other workouts involving your core and lower body.

TRX App

There is an app available as well, and you can purchase workout routines for download.  They also offer options for coaching. The TRX app gives you guided exercise videos and can also connect with wearables.

There is a lot of good stuff within the app, but you can, of course, use the TRX straps without the app.  The app is a way to track progress, keep you engaged and compete with your friends.

TRX Suspension Trainers

TRX All-in-One Suspension Training

What’s in the box

  • TRX training strap – this is the black and yellow strap with handles that you work out with
  • TRX Suspension anchor – this is what you use to anchor your straps to a tree, beam, or another object that is not a door jam
  • TRX Door anchor – Of course this is what you use to anchor your TRX system to a door
  • Carrying bag so you can take it with you
  • Workout book and guide
TRX All-in-One Suspension Training System: Weight Training, Cardio, Cross Training, Resistance Training. Full Body Workouts for Home, Travel, and Outdoors. Includes Indoor & Outdoor Anchor system
6,826 Reviews
TRX All-in-One Suspension Training System: Weight Training, Cardio, Cross Training, Resistance Training. Full Body Workouts for Home, Travel, and Outdoors. Includes Indoor & Outdoor Anchor system
  • OUR BEST-SELLING TRAINING SYSTEM. TRX’s All-In-One Suspension Trainer System has revolutionized personal fitness. Designed for full-body workouts that are proven to anywhere, anytime, using only your bodyweight. Includes All-In-One Suspension Trainer, Indoor/Outdoor Anchors & Mesh Travel Bag.
  • AMAZING RESULTS FAST. TRX will allow you to achieve the results you want. You will Build Muscle, Burn Fat, Strengthen Core, Increase Cardio Endurance & Improve Flexibility efficiently to transform the way you look, feel & think.
  • WORKOUT ANYWHERE. TRX easily anchors to doors, rafters, or beams at home—as well as anywhere outdoors like trees, poles, or posts. Take TRX All-in-One Suspension Training System to the beach, park, hotel, mountain or anywhere you love to work out.
  • SAFETY-TESTED – TRX is safety-tested to support bodyweight up to 700 pounds. TRX has been used for over 10 years by the US Military, Pro Sports teams, and world-class athletes worldwide and comes with our full TRX two-year Superior Quality Warranty.
  • YOUR TRIAL TO THE TRX TRAINING CLUB APP: Experience unlimited access to 500+ on-demand workouts: weight training, cardio, cross-training, sport athleticism, resistance and mobility training, and prehab and rehab. Find 100s of workouts for every goal! All workouts guided by world-class certified TRX trainers.

TRX Pro 3 Suspension Training Kit

What’s in the box:

  • TRX training strap – The straps are super strong and durable and are super easy to adjust and lock tightly in place.
  • TRX Door anchor – Use this to hang the suspension trainer on a door in your house, or even a hotel when you are traveling.
  • Carrying bag
  • Xtender – This will help with high or wide anchor points.  The extender is a nice added feature not included in the basic kit
  • The carabiner is really beefy.
  • The equalizer loop, which is the common point where the two straps meet has been reinforced, so it will last a long time

A couple of things that set this trainer apart from the Basic Kit are the handles, which are antimicrobial, textured handles.  There are three anchoring solutions, which include the door anchor, suspension anchor and Xtender which extends the trainer when using high or wide anchor points, like a giant tree branch.

TRX PRO3 Suspension Trainer System, Design & Durability for Cross-Training, Weight Training, HIIT Training & Cardio, Includes 3 Anchor Solutions for Indoor & Outdoor Home Gyms
1,795 Reviews
TRX PRO3 Suspension Trainer System, Design & Durability for Cross-Training, Weight Training, HIIT Training & Cardio, Includes 3 Anchor Solutions for Indoor & Outdoor Home Gyms
  • TESTED BY THE BEST - TRX’s PRO3 Suspension Trainer System helps you create intense full-body workouts anytime, anywhere. The Pro3 System is used by Professional Trainers, Pro Athletes, Olympians, and Fitness Pros and Gyms world-wide.
  • OUR MOST COMPLETE TRAINING SYSTEM! Features the Pro3 Suspension Trainer, 3 Suspension Anchors, Durable Textured Rubber Grip Handles, Padded Foot Cradles, Pro-Trainer 8-Week Workout.
  • RESULTS MATTER - TRX gives you the ability to realize your potential and achieve all your fitness goals. Build Muscle, Burn Fat, Increase Endurance & Improve Flexibility. You set the bar, and TRX will help you get there.
  • ADVANCED WORKOUT EQUIPMENT: Gym lovers, this one is for you. The PRO3 is heavy-duty exercise equipment designed for repeated gym use. An elite level system for building core strength, increasing lean muscle, boosting endurance and expanding mobility.
  • HIGHEST QUALITY - Our TRX Pro3 Suspension Trainer is made with the highest-grade webbing, extra-durable components, and commercial grade materials. Not exaggerating - This product will outlive you.

TRX GO Suspension Trainer Kit

What’s in the box:

  • TRX training strap
  • TRX Door anchor
  • TRX Suspension Anchor
  • Carrying bag

A lighter-weight version with all the functionality of the other trainers listed, the Go suspension trainer is a great option.

TRX GO Suspension Trainer System, Full-Body Workout for All Levels & Goals, Lightweight & Portable, Fast, Fun & Effective Workouts, Home Gym Equipment or for Outdoor Workouts, Grey
10,666 Reviews
TRX GO Suspension Trainer System, Full-Body Workout for All Levels & Goals, Lightweight & Portable, Fast, Fun & Effective Workouts, Home Gym Equipment or for Outdoor Workouts, Grey
  • ALL LEVELS, ALL GOALS - TRX GO is a lightweight Suspension Trainer, easy to use at home or on the go, easy to pack & travel. Perfect for fun, fast and effective workouts in as little as 20 minutes per day. Workout anywhere, anytime and advance at your own pace.
  • ONE POUND WONDER - Includes Suspension Training Strap, Indoor/Outdoor Anchors & Mesh Carry Bag. Download TRX Training App for hundreds of workouts by world-class trainers. TRX GO is the perfect Home Gym complement for all types of training.
  • PROVEN RESULTS – Bodyweight Suspension Training has been proven to increase muscular activation, reduce injury risk and accelerate results. TRX allows you to build lean muscle, burn fat, increase range of motion, and improve your performance in life and sport.
  • SAFETY-TESTED – TRX is safety-tested to support bodyweight up to 700 pounds. TRX has been used for over 10 years by the US Military, Pro Sports teams, and world-class athletes worldwide and comes with our full TRX two-year Superior Quality Warranty.
  • YOUR TRIAL TO THE TRX TRAINING CLUB APP: Experience unlimited access to 500+ on-demand workouts: weight training, cardio, cross-training, sport athleticism, resistance and mobility training, and prehab and rehab. Find 100s of workouts for every goal! All workouts guided by world-class certified TRX trainers.

TRX Suspension Trainer review

There are several different options to choose from when it comes to TRX training suspension systems. Each of the trainers is similar in functionality but includes a few more bells and whistles depending on how much you want to spend.  I think the All-In-One trainer is a good entry-level option, but I like the extra features that the Basic Kit provides.  The Pro version is just a little beefier all around and includes the Xtender.

Pros

  • Suspension training is a great way to work your entire body
  • Portable so you can take it with you
  • Come with the door hanger
  • You can use this indoors or outdoors
  • Easy to setup
  • Improve flexibility, strength, and stability
  • Perfect for all fitness levels, beginner to professional athlete

Cons

  • At first, I noticed my grip strength needs to improve
  • It will take some time to get used to the motions and how to flow from one exercise to the next
  • If you are a powerlifter or enjoy lifting insanely heavy weights, this might not be for you

Ready to take the challenge and start training in a different and very effective way. Check out all the TRX Suspension Training options and pick the one that is right for your workout needs.

TRX Suspension Trainer
  • Value
  • Price
  • Convenience
4.8

22 thoughts on “TRX Suspension Trainer – an In-Depth Review”

  1. Awesome article! Being someone with back problems I have been trying to find something that would help strengthen my core. You nailed it here with the TRX. Thank you so much for sharing this info with us.

    Reply
    • Thank you very much for your comment, I appreciate it. TRX is definitely great for strengthening your core, which can help with back problems. Thanks for taking time to stop by!

      Reply
  2. Brilliant article, I really like how versatile this equipment is. I like the way that it can be used at home and the office as and when required. I think this will be a great addition to a training regime as you mentioned it is so easy to get used to one way of working out and this can enhance your workout.

    Reply
    • Hello and thanks for stopping by. Yes, the TRX is very versatile and I think that is one it’s best qualities. The fact that you can take it with you just about anywhere and get a full body workout is awesome. Thanks for your comment, I really appreciate it.

      Reply
  3. This is a really cool product. I just had a baby, via cesarean section so I have a flub of tummy that I really want to eliminate. I want to work on my core, but my back is weak and so are my upper arms…. I am such a lousy push-upper 🙁 I like these because you don’t necessarily have to do push ups, there are other exercises you can do to work on your core. I also like that there are many options for where you can hook this up to, where baby can’t grab or get too, but I especially like the most that you can place this in a door! Do you think this product is okay for a post cesarean mommy to use?

    Reply
    • Thanks for stopping by. I would definitely talk to your doctor and get cleared for exercise before you begin an exercise program. My wife had two babies via C-section and I know she had to be cleared by the doctor before she could begin working out again. That said, when you are ready to get after it, the TRX is a great way to start. You can change the level of resistance easily by adjusting your body angle. So if you need more or less resistance it is easy to do. The TRX is a great tool to start with and you can grow into more intense exercises as well. Best of luck to you in your recovery and in motherhood.

      Reply
  4. TRX is awesome! I was told that it was designed for the military to workout! The good thing about them is that they can be hanged anywhere, especially at the outdoor gym. The length is usually regulated too.
    I like to do plank using TRX. Basically, you put your feet in the strings and hold the plank for 10 seconds then rest for 3 and so forth. Builds your core fantastically!

    Reply
  5. I love TRX. I recently moved from Dallas and they had a huge TRX set up. I used it frequently. My new gym has nothing of the sorts. I would love to have this in my garage actually! I added it to my Amazon buttons, so when I am ready I can just add it to my cart! This is a great way to work every part of the body!

    Reply
    • Thank you for your comment. I am glad to hear that you are a TRX enthusiast. Yes, I agree, TRX is a great way to work your whole body and your garage would be a great place for one. Thanks again for stopping by, I appreciate it.

      Reply
  6. This looks really cool. I love that you are using your body weight with TRX. I also like that you can mount it on a door. Most people have doors in their home. I noticed on some of the videos that people even set it up outside on trees. Does it take a long time to set up TRX?
    Do you have TRX workout recommendations as well?

    Reply
    • Yes, I love the fact that TRX is really easy to set up and you can set it up in a lot of different places. It does not take long at all to set up.  As for workouts, when you order the kit, it does come with a quick start guide and there are a ton of videos available online.  TRX also has an app and you can sign up for personal training with a coach if like, for an additional cost.  I hope this helps.  Let me know if you have any more questions.  Thank you for stopping by.

      Reply
  7. I have developed back pain for quiet some time now. I know from experience that developing stronger core helps with back problems and overall fitness. Your article covers it all very well. I also like the fact that you gave few options to choose right TRX kit. This has motivated me to look into TRX training kits.
    Thanks
    Ash

    Reply
  8. I have been looking for a convenient way to workout, without having to go to the gym. I think I have finally found my solution.  I totally have to try the suspension system! I think it would be great for people who don’t have time to go to the gym, but need an extra workout within the day. Do you have any recommendations on how many times per week to use the TRX?  Thank you for sharing this awesome product:)

    I love your awesome logo by the way, it connects well to the content.

    Reply
    • Thank you for stopping by, I appreciate it.  I would recommend starting out with 3 days per week, if you are new to TRX, or working out in general.  This will give your body time to recover in between each workout.  There are a lot of videos available to walk you through using the TRX trainer. I am working on a post to share some of those videos.  Thanks for your comment on the logo as well.

      Reply
  9. Great article. The TRX is a super great tool. I do a mum’s and baby class once a week and we always get on the TRX…my baby wasn’t so keen when she was little probably the sensation of leaning back but she loves it now…tries to hold on to!
    We do a lot of squats and curls…
    Is the TRX quite gentle on the core?

    Reply
    • Thank you for your comment.  I am glad you have some experience with TRX, that’s awesome.  As far as being gentle on the core, you can make it easier or harder, depending on the angle you are using.  I love the fact that you are able to do this with your baby.  I appreciate you stopping by, have a great day!

      Reply
  10. Steve,
    Great post and overall explanation of the TRX Training Suspension. Honestly this might be just the thing I need to expand my workouts. Like you I tend to get complacent. I do a fairly good job of mixing up the muscle groups I workout in one session every 3 months or so BUT I tend to do the same exercises. And it’s all about lifting weights.
    This looks like a great system to try something completely new and give my workouts a much needed Jolt!\
    Thanks again,
    Mat A.

    Reply
    • Thanks Mat A.  I know what you mean about getting complacent. That’s one thing I love about TRX, it is just something different to mix it up.  I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment. Have a great day!

      Reply

Leave a Comment