You have probably seen TRX straps hanging from ceiling anchors in gyms and rehabilitation facilities.
Navy SEAL Squadron Commander Randy Hetrick developed TRX straps in 1997 as a portable way to exercise.
The first strap was simply a fabric jiu-jitsu belt with a parachute fitting. In 2001, the idea developed into a new exercise method: Total body Resistance eXercise.
The versatility of TRX strength training has changed the training world and set new standards.
Its many benefits also have a natural place in physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Here is why TRX is an essential part of our patients’ treatment at thl.
1. TRX is suitable for everyone, regardless of fitness level.
TRX exercises can be adapted for everyone from beginners to professional athletes.
The therapist or trainer can adjust the exercise angle, base of support, suspension from the handles and body position. This lets patients get the greatest benefit even during rehabilitation.
A simple change to a TRX exercise can make it much harder, without adding weight or repetitions as other forms of training require.
2. TRX places considerable emphasis on the core
Abdominal, back and other core strengthening exercises are essential to protecting the body from everyday injuries and discomfort. They are also rarely anyone’s favourite exercises.
TRX offers an effective answer.
Every exercise activates the core muscles through biomechanically coordinated movement.
For example, a shoulder strengthening exercise also activates the core significantly. It happens naturally as part of a functional movement, often without you noticing.
From a therapeutic perspective, this ability of TRX to strengthen the core in complete synchrony with movements of the limbs has exceptional value for both therapist and participant.
3. Low risk, great variety, maximum effectiveness
TRX carries a much lower risk of injury than traditional weight training methods.
Complete control of resistance and the ‘closed’ technique required when suspended from straps guarantee safety. At the same time, the variety of exercises is truly endless.
Participants never get bored, while the nervous and musculoskeletal systems constantly receive new movement and flexibility stimuli.
The effectiveness of TRX exercises is truly impressive. Suffice it to say that every repetition, performed essentially using body weight, simultaneously trains strength, balance, proprioception, flexibility, the core, joint stabilisation and neuromuscular coordination.
TRX – a key part of exercise at TherapyLab
For these reasons, TherapyLab has adopted suspension training in its therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation departments. Programmes are designed and carried out under the guidance of our highly trained, certified therapists.
