The TRX Training System is a very hot new way to train and tone your entire body. It is suspension training which relies on your body weight for resistance. There is a compact, lightweight model for the home exerciser and a larger, more comprehensive contraption for gyms in which multiple users can exercise at the same time.

Suspension training incorporates balance, flexibility, muscular strength, and endurance. These are the cornerstones of a well-rounded resistance training program. This type of workout is ideal for all exercisers from beginning to elite athletes because the user is in complete control of the workout. Just by changing the position of your legs and adjusting the length of the straps, you can increase or decrease the resistance and intensity of every exercise.

By the very nature of this kind of workout, your core and stabilizer muscles are engaged in every exercise and your heart rate is elevated much higher than if you were to perform the same series of exercises in an upright position. The TRX allows you to have a greater range of motion while performing upper and lower body exercises than with traditional dumbbells. There is also a decreased likelihood of injury because there is little to no stress to your joints.

By resistance training on more than one plane of motion, you are challenging your muscles differently than what they are used to and are exercising multiple muscles at the same time. This is an excellent way to functionally train using only your body weight. Using suspension on an incline or a decline adds intensity and resistance to all exercises.

Most exercisers never do resistance exercises in multiple planes. You will shock your muscles by performing exercises in a whole new way than you routinely do with dumbbells and machines. Along with shocking your muscles you will also create muscle confusion when you incorporate instability training. Muscle confusion simply means your body is being challenged in a way it is not accustomed to and therefore will receive greater benefits from the workouts.

I liken muscle confusion to business economies of scale.  When you first take on a project you are slow and need to focus to get the job done however once you have mastered the task you are quick and go into a rote mode of operation. The body is the same, once your body masters an exercise the effects are lessened because the muscles know how to execute the movement with the least possible effort.  Incorporate TRX training for plateau busting, muscle confusing workouts.