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This gadget you see to your left here is one of my very favorite training tools. It is a TRX suspension training system, and I love it. It is lightweight and sets up in under 2 mins. You can use it indoors (with a door attachment) and out. And, it is easy to learn (but is also deceivingly challenging, making it the ideal tool for those who like to push themselves…safely).
Spurred by questions regarding the TRX Suspension Training system, I thought I’d give you my two cents, and also point central Ohio fitness enthusiasts toward local resources, in case you’d want to give it a try…
First, know that the TRX is not a gimmick, it is a tool that truly delivers what it promises – total body fitness. Don’t believe me? Watch this video with Drew Brees, who recently utilized the TRX to rehab a shoulder injury. A slew of professional athletes and pro teams use the TRX to gain strength, improve flexibility, and achieve overall body conditioning.
Second, the TRX is fairly easy to learn. Even if you are comfortable using the online instruction videos and DVDs from Fitness Anywhere at home, you can take a class to learn from a certified professional. I highly recommend it.
Learn it locally – Columbus, OH
You can learn from yours truly, if you wish. Email me if you’d like to find out more about private training using the TRX (info@blueskygym.com)
Also, the Dublin Community Rec Center offers classes for beginners, as well as “express” style workouts for individuals who have some experience with the TRX. You need to be a member of the rec center to take these classes. You can register online. DCRC spring/summer fitness schedule
Urban Moves in Bexley
2354 E. Main Street, Bexley, 43209
If you really want to learn the TRX, I recommend taking a TRX workshop from Fitness Anywhere. There is one on Feb. 7th in Toledo @ the West Toledo YMCA
2110 Tremainsville Rd., Toledo, 43613
Contact: Margaret Pratt @ 415-655-4781 for more information.
07
Fans of “The Perfect Push-up” rejoice, there is a new kid in town…“The Perfect Situp.”I know…it is about time (wink.)
Having never actually tried “the perfect push-up” or “perfect situp” do-hickies, I can not honestly attest to their perfectness, however, I think that any apparatus that improves form and, most of all, gets you excited about doing the exercise, is worth a shot. Also, most people do abdominal exercises incorrectly, so if “the perfect situp” helps, then there will be a lot of people standing a little taller very soon, and sporting some six-packs too.
The scoop: The Perfect Situp promises to target all four abdominal muscles (transverse abdominus, rectus abdominus, and external/internal obliques); enable you to complete abdominal exercises with perfect form; and allows you to progress as you get stronger by adding resistance in the form of 10-30lb blades.
View the video to see how it works: Perfect Situp video
Cost: $99.95 + free shipping
I haven’t tried it myself, but will surely check it out at the next fitness convention I attend. It is always fun to sample new equipment!
If you have tried the Perfect Situp, I’d love to hear what you think…!
06
This piece of equipment might well be one of the coolest things I’ve seen (and after more than a decade in the fitness business, I’ve seen a lot of cool things)…Skywall! A motorized climbing wall that enables you to hone your climbing skills, without the height (or necessary belts and harnesses). The wall is about 11 ft tall, has 10 different climbing speeds, and the rocks can be moved around, so each climb is completely unique.
Some benefits to climbing, in case you’re new to this sport (as am I):
Climbing…
You can find out more about the Skywall at Motion Fitness.
P.S – There is a kid-sized version of this wall that is 9ft high and recommended for kids up to age 9. Another, slightly larger model is designed for kids up to age 12. My two cents: this seems like a fun way to introduce kids to climbing in a safe environment. If I can find out what gyms/where have these, I’ll pass the info along.