In Saudi Arabia, this new type of bodyweight exercise was introduced about a year and a half ago, and by now, several major gyms have started to give suspension training classes for all levels. One of the certified TRX instructors is Shimaa Adel. She works for a big gym in Jeddah and gives suspension training classes five days a week.

“TRX suspension training uses two long, inelastic straps attached to a thick metal bar. They include two buckles to easily adjust the length as well as grips for the hands with integrated foot cradles,” she told Arab News. “Two things make this training unique: That it can be done anywhere and that it uses your body weight to create resistance as you train.” She continued: “The name of the maker of TRX equipment, ‘Fitness Anywhere,’ and its slogan, ‘Make your body your machine,’ summarize the workout pretty well.”

According to Adel, the advantage of suspension training over resistance training with weights or machines is that it tones your muscles but does not build bulky muscles. Furthermore, traditional weight training often only works one muscle at a time, whereas suspension training works multiple muscles and joints simultaneously. Indeed, the makers claim that suspension training tightens your core, strengthens your muscles and increases your flexibility. With more than 300 strengthening and toning moves, every part of the body can be trained, according to Fitness Anywhere.

Apart from the possibility to train anywhere, the makers of TRX and Inkaflexx also claim that their workouts are for all levels. Adel agrees with this: “By changing your body position, you can make movements easier or more difficult.” In other words, you adjust the amount of resistance yourself. “During beginners’ classes, we usually focus on the big groups of muscles, but experienced athletes can use TRX to improve sport-specific skills. In advanced classes, the instructor may put music and teach a sequence of exercises. The music is always in the background though, and not leading as in aerobics,” she added.

However, not everyone thinks the training is suitable for all levels. Critics warn that the instability of suspension straps can lead to injury, especially among individuals with inadequate core strength or joint integrity.

“People with a weak core, back problems or weak wrists have a bigger risk to develop injuries. Therefore, I advise beginners not to do TRX at home, but at a gym with a qualified instructor who will make sure you perform the exercises properly,” says Adel.

It goes without saying that the only way to find out if suspension training is something for you is by trying it yourself. However, if you mainly want to become stronger and focus on your core, suspension training may be a good and effective way to achieve that goal.