What is Suspension Training?
Suspension Training refers to a type of resistance/strength training that uses what looks like a set of ropes to allow you to work against your own body weight.
Sources suggest that rope training has been around as early as the 1800s in it’s current form and is based on ideas that are believed to have been around for thousands of years – experts have found what appears to be a rope-based conditioning system used by inhabitants of the Andes mountains. Randy Hetrick, a former Navy Seal developed resistance exercise in the 1990s when he was looking for a piece of equipment to help his troops keep fit whilst deployed abroad and he started selling resistance training equipment in 2005.
What are the benefits of Suspension training?
Suspension Training develops core strength, balance, flexibility and joint stability. When you develop core strength (around the 4 muscle groups that form a cylinder surrounding the organs of the lower torso) there are a few specific benefits;
1. By developing your core you provide a constant level of tension that holds the spine in balance and in place – so when the core muscles are conditioned, the spine stays aligned all the time, even when you sleep.
2. Proper alignment and posture contributes to better circulation, better nervous system health and more effective results than when we exercise any other muscle group.
3. When you work out and exercise the core on a regular basis, you provide a strong and stable base for every movement in every other part of the body – so any exercise that targets the core actually supports and develops the arms, legs, hips, shoulders, chest and upper back. The more an exercise targets the core, the more every muscle group benefits.
4. Balance and co-ordination – when you subject large muscle groups to intense workouts, your limbs gain strength and tone, your core muscles develop and at the same time you build endurance and stability.
5. Reduced chance of injury – because Suspension Training is a low impact form of exercise you’re much less likely to sustain an injury.
6. Additional bang for your buck – performing movements when suspended means your body is pushed beyond what a simple floor exercise can deliver, therefore meaning your body gets a better workout.
7. It’s portable; if you buy yourself Suspension Training equipment, it generally weighs less than 2lbs and can easily be incorporated into your holiday packing. No more excuses not to train whilst on holiday!
Is Suspension Training for me?
The best way to find out is to try it. All Active nation gyms have suspension training equipment ready for you to try. Our gym staff will be happy to show you the ropes, pardon the pun. And remember, if you’re not a member, you can download our FREE 7 day pass here, giving you unlimited access to gyms, exercise classes and swimming for a whole week.
During our Facebook Live, our personal trainer shows you some exercises to get you started on suspension training equipment.
