TRX with kettelbells

[clarinetplayer]

I just began training with TRX suspension mixed with kettle bells. I did not know what to expect, but, after just a few sessions, I'm loving this. What a great core conditioner. As one person said, it's all abs all the time. (Plus legs and arms.) I like the intensity and the fact that the the brain is exercised, too. One has to think and pay attention--no mindless training on a machine. I know there will be rewards in my running ability.

 

[Jake431]

Originally Posted by clarinetplayer

I just began training with TRX suspension mixed with kettlebells. I did not know what to expect, but, after just a few sessions, I'm loving this. What a great core conditioner. As one person said, it's all abs all the time. (Plus legs and arms.) I like the intensity and the fact that the the brain is exercised, too. One has to think and pay attention--no mindless training on a machine. I know there will be rewards in my running ability.

Can you give more detail about your routine? I have a TRX and when I am at my trainer's he has me use kettlebells. I'm planning on picking one (or two up), so I'd like to know your routine, if you don't mind...

 

[clarinetplayer]

I am just a "beginner", so sessions have been centered on learning good habits and form. I am being exposed to the many ways the TRX and KB can be used separately and combined.

The focus has been on flexibility, balance, a progression of variations. I might start with the TRX doing a reverse lunge. Then, add the KB in one hand for added weight. Another variation would be to add a press with the KB as I go down. The idea is to work 2-3 different body parts at the same time.

Another set would be with starting with deep squats with a row. Then, with one hand on the KB, do the same with a press.

Mixed in with the sets have been KB swings, variations on planks with legs in the TRX, atomic push ups etc....

I have a great trainer--someone who explains everything thoroughly and is a stickler for correct form.

The TRX is used for post workout stretching.

When I first saw people using TRX, I thought "What kind of a gimmick is this?" A friend convinced me to try it, and I have become a believer. These workouts are intense. Furthermore, I have to think and concentrate what I'm doing. There's no place for mindless listening to music on the iPod or watching TV or reading a magazine while on some machine. The brain has to be involved. I like the idea of using one's own body weight and the KB. It is an efficient and intense workout. When I'm done, I certainly know that I have had a thorough workout--upper body, abs, legs. A good feeling.

My goal is to run a marathon next fall, and for me, this is the best possible training to keep my body core strong.

 

[bsarosi]

I attest to the TRX and kettlebells.

I learned that I get free personal training through work but I figured if they're giving free training, how good could it be? And how committed would the trainers be if they have a multitude of people with varying skill levels?

One day I saw the trainer pull out some weird straps (TRX) and some kettlebells with some trainees and it piqued my interest. Still, I figured it was probably some gimmick that didn't do much. I gave it a try thinking it would be a piece of cake. Boy was I wrong.

Clarinetplayer is right on. Not only can you get a total body workout and keep the heart rate up such that it can be an extreme cardio workout, but it requires total concentration. You can throw in circuit training and I, too, find that body weight is more than enough to get a full workout. You can hit every muscle group, core, and build endurance. If you're looking for strength, that can be attained. Unless the kettlebells are heavy enough, it may be a little more difficult to increase power since max lifts would be hard to do.

Overall, I'm a big believer of the TRX and kettlebells and now use them three times a week with spinning the two other days of the week for added cardio and I feel great. I definitely recommend both for any person looking for some new workout types.

 

[Gassyndrome]

Sounds awesome - this is exactly the kind of workout I'm looking to get into. Thanks!

 

[akatsuki]

They are pretty easy to make on your own (or just get the Vegas Pro straps which are the same thing and cheaper).

Definitely a good tool to use once a while.