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4. TRX
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Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most effective. TRX is one of those.
Developed by a former Navy SEAL, it is a suspension training method that relies on gravity and one’s own bodyweight. Using two straps/cables on your feet or hands to keep your body suspended off the ground, your own bodyweight and gravity provide all the resistance. Exercises are easily tweaked to determine how hard you work, and the workout doesn’t require expensive equipment. Instead, it is all about you. While it is simple, it is not necessarily easy. You determine the difficulty and therefore the results.
Where to Find It: How many gyms have you been to with a fireplace and chandeliers? That’s what you get at Mansion Fitness on Fairfax Avenue at Santa Monica Boulevard. But the trainer-only gym (you must be meeting a trainer for a session to use the facility) means you won’t be there to only admire the amenities. Mansion offers TRX classes that cost $75-$100 per hourly session, or you can bring an outside trainer and pay a rental fee. The gym is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the week and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Sunday is only open for private rentals.
The only other place in West Hollywood that offers TRX classes is 24 Hour Fitness (8612 Santa Monica Blvd., west of La Cienega) but if you talk it over with your personal trainer, he or she might be able to help put together a TRX program.
What You’ll Work: When partially suspended, your core and stabilizer muscles are forced to work to keep you steady. This helps develop your balance, flexibility and core stability while you get stronger. Most of the exercises work out the core, but TRX can be customized to focus on any particular body part or muscle group.
