Anybody use a TRX suspension trainer?

[OakLeaf]

Two 13' x 1" ratcheting tie-downs: $21.98

2' x 1" PVC pipe for handles, cut to fit: $1.72

Exercise suggestions and routines free on TRX's own site as well as YouTube

Even if you buy TRX's own door anchor (how does it anchor?? I can't figure it out by looking at it) ... and even if you pay a cobbler to sew the handles on rather than just tying them ... I'm seriously not seeing $200.

[SadieKate]

I dunnoh, padded handles for the hands? The added comfort and functionality of soft straps when you're suspended by your feet? There is a limit to my pain tolerance.

[SadieKate]

Even if you buy TRX's own door anchor (how does it anchor?? I can't figure it out by looking at it)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHPe2p0Kukc

[ridebikeme]

While $200 might seem a bit high for a couple of straps, you have to remember it's the research and technology that make prices seem high.... The straps are much more than straps, as someone else mentioned padded handles, buckle to allow them to go from short to long etc... and the bar is a weighted bar.

I'm in the group of people that want to own one, with an older house I can always find a beam to drill into or I can install in the shop.

[Catrin]

While $200 might seem a bit high for a couple of straps, you have to remember it's the research and technology that make prices seem high.... The straps are much more than straps, as someone else mentioned padded handles, buckle to allow them to go from short to long etc... and the bar is a weighted bar.

I'm in the group of people that want to own one, with an older house I can always find a beam to drill into or I can install in the shop.

I wouldn't trust something that I made, I would rather save over a period of time and purchase one. If the door mount/anchor works, and it sounds like it is safe, then I might consider that approach. I've 11 foot ceilings so I don't think a ceiling mount would work for me even if my apartment management office approved it....

I just checked out the basic TRX package deal and it does include a door anchor. That is good to know. Eventually I want to get either a TRX for home, or a Bosu...we shall see, but neither will come soon.

[ridebikeme]

I too, would simply buy the TRX. I would trust my building of this, but also think there are features that would be hard to duplicate. From videos I've watched, it seems that there is a bit of suspension in the straps... is that correct for anyone that has used one?

For those of you that might want to build your own, I do know there is a link on Facebook that shows you how. I wish I could offer the link, but I can't.

Thanks for all of the great opinions!!

[ridebikeme]

For those of you that are not interested in paying $200 for TRX, I did some research yesterday and found some alternatives for you... which are listed below.

1) GoFitGravity Strap
2)Seirus Strap Suspension... has lots of videos
3) SKLS Power Straps 90 day warranty
4)Lifeline USAJungle Gym USA made and 90 day warranty, these are built for commercail use.

After looking at all of the straps etc... it does appear that TRX is the best quality and does have the best warranty which is one year. But prices range from $49-$99, so that decision is up to you. There may be even more choices than what I have listed.

Ok, hope this helps...

[OakLeaf]

My PT used the phrase "jungle gym" and that looks like the one they have. I didn't realize it was a trademark. If it's good enough for a PT clinic (associated with one of the city's premier ortho practices) it's good enough for me. And, the price is about the same as what it would cost to make one yourself.

[Irulan]

I'm not seeing the added "trademarked" value in this, just a whole lot of marketing. We work out with all sorts of resistance cords with handles and sport cords at my gym.

[OakLeaf]

The one I used at my PT didn't have any of that stuff either. Just 1" webbing, ratchet, and PVC handles, that was it.

I spec'ed the price for the 300 lb tiedowns, but brand name Ancra 1100-lb tiedowns are still only like $25 each. Something that's going to hold a 700-lb motorcycle onto a trailer as it goes over potholes and around turns at 75 mph is not going to fail on you while you're doing push-ups, no matter how much you weigh.

TRX's trademarked bar doesn't come with the kit, it's apparently another $190.