TRX; fitness; Chicago; CrossTown Fitness; review

October 28, 2014

What is TRX? A Cross Town Fitness Experience.

I have a really fun workout experience to share tonight – my first go at TRX interval training! A few weeks ago, K and I attended a small group TRX total body workout class at CrossTown Fitness in West Loop. The class was led by CTF’s Fitness Director Betina Gozo. “TRX” is a actually a training tool for classes, using the TRX Suspension Trainer – long straps that assist with a variety of bodyweight exercises. Think balance, core, and strength training.

CTF’s take on a TRX total body workout during the class I attended included 45 second intervals over 50 minutes, switching between using a treadmill and using a TRX for a variety of moves. We completed squats, burpees, arm exercises, lunges, and more. I was sore for days after this class and I have to tell you it is one of the best interval workouts I’ve ever done. CTF has incorporated TRX in classes since opening last year.

After the class, I sent a few questions to CTF’s Fitness Director to learn more about TRX.

What is the philosophy of TRX training?
{An excerpt from the TRX website}
No part of the body is an island unto itself. Try to pick up a pen off the floor using just your hand. It’s impossible. Even simple movements simultaneously engage the legs, core, shoulders, arms, and neck. The body is an interconnected chain of muscles. Every movement we perform is a whole-body movement. That’s why TRX Training uses tools and movements that challenge the entire body in every plane of motion.

What is the benefit of incorporating short runs in CTF’s TRX class (an aspect I loved, by the way)?
I incorporated the bursts of running in between the strength exercises to keep client’s heart rate up and increase their metabolic rate so that they can burn more calories.

How is TRX training beneficial to fitness vs. “regular” interval training?

The TRX incorporates resistance and cardio training with only your body weight. The TRX is a good training tool for your core. With certain movements, you may be focusing on certain body parts, but you are always strengthening your core and using your whole body. Since you are only using your body weight, every movement is scalable and you are less prone to injury. With some interval training incorporating weights, it is more likely you can injure yourself with poor form versus the TRX. Another benefit is that you can bring a TRX with you anywhere, with countless exercises to work with!

If you are interested in checking out CrossTown Fitness, CTF has an introductory “new client” pass available for one month for $80. Check out more info here!

{I was not compensated for this post and all opinions are my own. I attended an event at CrossTown Fitness that included a free TRX total body workout class.}