TRX Suspension Training for MMA

The TRX (suspension training) equipment is a type of bodyweight training program that has recently caught the eye of various fitness professionals and enthusiasts. It was developed by former Navy Seal master chief Randy Hetrick way back in the 1990’s as an alternative training system. According to Randy, he developed the suspension trainer out of necessity. As a squadron commander, he needed a portable training tool to help him and his team in top physical condition even with the absence of a respectable gym, equipment, or open space. To date, the TRX is a fast rising training program with over $20M worth of suspension training equipment sold mainly to the military and to athletes and trainers.

As a suspension training program, the TRX relies on the resistance provided by the athlete’s bodyweight. Bodyweight training can be a complement to other training regimens such as weight training. It can be very convenient because expensive equipment is not necessary for bodyweight training with the most obvious exercises include pushups, pull-ups, dips, squats, and situps. The TRX system takes bodyweight training on a whole new level. The TRX system engages the core muscles by placing the body or parts of the body in suspension. The usual exercises that used to be done on the ground are made more challenging because the body also needs to stabilize itself while on the suspension trainer. This provides a dynamic stability and functional training twist to the everyday exercises that we are familiar with. Randy Hetrick, in collaboration with Crunch fitness director Susane Pata, has developed more than 300 exercises that can be done with the TRX system.

MMA fighters can benefit in the TRX system. Initially, some MMA fighters were hesitant with how effective the suspension trainer is because most MMA fighters were used to training using weights. How can an assuming set of straps help the already buffed MMA fighter? Surely, their muscular bodies will have a field day doing exercises while in suspension. However, they have found that in spite of lifting heavy weights, they were having a very hard time with the suspension trainer. Clearly, having strong muscles does not necessarily equate to a strong core.

Having a strong and conditioned core is very important in MMA (and in any other sport) because it is the core muscles (abs, lower back, legs, glutes) that provide stability to the entire body especially during explosive bursts of power. They also act as conduits to ensure that power is transferred successfully across the body as it throws blows or when doing take downs. Without a strong core to provide stability and balance, the power generated by the limbs will only go into waste. It can therefore be said that developing a strong core equates to having functional strength. By training the body to work in concert, the MMA fighter can more effectively harness power from the muscles.

A number of successful MMA fighters have already began training with the TRX. Brandon Vera, Roger Huerta, Bas Rutten, and Denis Kang are some of the MMA fighters who have adapted the TRX into their training regimens. Regular people who wish to benefit in the TRX can attend classes. The TRX system usually comes with an instructional video but nothing beats working out with like-minded people. Also, TRX-accredited trainers can provide valuable insight in how to maximize the TRX system. TRX classes are usually classified as very intense cardiovascular workouts.

TRX provides a challenging workout to athletes and conditioned people but some experts argue that it may not be for everybody. The exercises might be too difficult or could cause injury if not properly executed. As such, deconditioned people should take caution in jumping in without medical consult or proper guidance from trainers.

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The TOUGH Spot is running TRX Suspension Training classes for beginners and has some very attractive memberships available starting as low as $24.95 a week for unlimited classes. Just click here to enquire today!

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