Regulars here at The Running Bug, or, for that matter, anyone who's ever picked up a running magazine, will be well aware of the fact that to run at your best you need to do more than just run.
'Cross train in the gym,' we're told, 'lift weights to build strength, do yoga or pilates for core strength and stability'.
But what people making these recommendations don't seem to realise is that being stuck in a gym feels like work to most runners, especially those who are office-bound most of the day. Not to mention the fact that we're not used to forking out a monthly fee for the privilege of moving our own bodies. Ask who's got a gym membership at a typical running club and you're likely to get a scant show of hands.
Sports performance coach, Si Tate (www.sitate.co.uk) explains the problem, "A lot of runners' training consists solely of running. Being so one-dimensional can be a disadvantage, there are many facets that need to be addressed if you are to improve as a runner. Not only is there a cardio aspect, but also work needs to be done on strengthening the body so that your technique can also improve."
Military Fitness
According many coaches, a solution may have finally arrived. The TRX was originally invented by a US Navy SEAL as a tool for exercising without gym equipment. Now it's being marketed as a home exercise device and many runners are seeing remarkable improvements in their performance as a result of incorporating it into their training.
"The TRX uses your own bodyweight against you to help strengthen key areas," says Tate. "Using the right exercises you can improve the strength element to your running, which will increase your acceleration, top speed and overall running control."
Indoors & Out
At first glance the TRX looks like a tangle of straps you might fear getting fatally snarled in, but it's actually quite simple and takes seconds to set up.
Composed of industrial-grade nylon straps and cam buckles (as used in parachutes), the TRX has two handles at the end of each strap. You either hold the handles or insert your feet to perform a variety of moves to get a full-body workout using body weight and gravity. For use at home it fixes to almost any door (no screws or modification to the door required) and it can be used outdoors by tying it to a tree or any sturdy frame.
Real Results
"I love TRX training," says Caroline Corbin who recently completed her first marathon. "It has improved my core strength, my upper body, my flexibility, and I've lost weight! I'm running much better as a result, I'm faster and the best thing is that running just feels much easier."
Runner, Gene Soboleski, adds, "Before I started exercising with my TRX, I noticed soreness in my abs after some runs, especially on trails. It's made me more agile and firmed up my core, so my belly isn't moving around as much. And, as an additional benefit my arms look better in a t-shirt!"
On the Hoof
Another bonus is that the TRX folds up to take up less space than your running shoes. Pack both in your luggage and you'll have all you need to stay in shape while travelling.
Buy TRX Suspension kit online at: www.escapefitness.com
Recommend TRX moves for runners from performanc coach, Si Tate:
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Have you tried TRX training? Share your tips and experiences via the comments below. Or if you have a question, ask away and we'll get our experts to answer it for you.
can you get one for me to try while on next trip abroad?!?!? look like they are very versatile, but quite pricey.
Sorry BatRunt! I have heard of people making their own, but you'd have to make sure it was safe and strong enough to hold you body weight... I should probably say "at your own risk" here - don't want to be held responsible if you end up in a heap! ;-)
I'd like to try one of these but they are very expensive and I don't wan tto pay a lot of money for something I might not like. Are there any shops where we can try them out before buying?
I've today started doing x5 TRX exercises as part of a cross training system that a friend who is a gym trainer has shown me and which are now placed in my local gym. I hope to do x15 reps x3 at least once a week if not twice, so will let you know how I how on.
I found a cheaper version, was only about £70 from ztrainer.co.uk. Doesnt look as swish as the trx but does the same job and holds my strongest and heaviest of clients - I'm a PT. You do need to buy the door attachments though, it does get difficult to find somewhere to attach it. One of the best pieces of equipment I've bought recently!