Best For
Considerations
Our Verdict
If there is one piece of exercise equipment I could not live without – it would be the suspension trainer.
Suspension trainers aren’t just fitness tools; they’re transformative catalysts for functional strength.
Their versatility, compact design, and effectiveness make them a fantastic investment if you are serious about your workout.
Personally, delving into suspension training marked a pivotal moment, unlocking a realm of possibilities with calisthenics and bodyweight exercises. From sculpting specific muscle groups to achieving a holistic full-body workout – the impact is profound.
It’s not just about reps; it’s about a dynamic, engaging fitness journey that suspension trainers uniquely facilitate. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, the suspension trainer stands tall, offering an invitation to redefine your fitness experience.
Why Trust Our Reviews?
After years of working out from home, I have established a unique expertise and vast experience using all kinds of home exercise equipment.
All tested equipment types have been tried and used extensively, providing me with an excellent platform to score and review each equipment type.
By following my recommendations, you can rest assured you are following the advice of someone who puts his pride in pointing you towards products suited to YOUR unique fitness journey.
Contents
How are Suspension Trainers Compared to Average Home Exercise Equipment?
| Factor | Suspension Trainer | Average |
| Ease of use | 7,5 | 9,1 |
| Versatility | 10 | 8,8 |
| Total Body Score | 9,7 | 8,5 |
| Upper body (33%) | 9,9 | 8,7 |
| Lower body (33%) | 9,5 | 8,2 |
| Core (33%) | 9,7 | 8,6 |
| Range of Resistance Levels | 9,6 | 8,7 |
| Impact on Joints and Tendons | 9,6 | 8,3 |
| Durability | 9 | 9 |
| Portability | 10 | 7 |
| Economy | 9,5 | 8,8 |
| Size | 10 | 8,2 |
| TOTAL SCORE | 9,35 | 8,66 |
Performance Tests
The Hometraininghero LOVES home exercise equipment.
And to determine which home exercise equipment lives up to their hype, we put them all to the test.
We test 9 different performance factors, considering their effectiveness, versatility, economy, and ease of use. Here is a quick overview of the 9 test categories:
- Ease of use
- Versatility
- Total Body Score
- 3.1– Upper body
- 3.2– Lower body
- 3.3– Core
- Range of Resistance Levels
- Impact on Joints and Tendons
- Durability
- Portability
- Economy (Purchase & Maintenance)
- Size
7.5 Ease of Use
Ease of use is a critical factor for fitness equipment, and the suspension trainer walks a fine line between simplicity and complexity.
I can attest that the initial learning curve might be a tad steeper than your usual gym equipment – however, once you grasp the basics, the possibilities are vast.
The key lies in understanding how your body weight interacts with the straps and mastering the balance required for different exercises. Beginners might find themselves wobbling in the beginning, but fear not – it’s part of the process.
Patience is key; give it a few sessions, and you’ll find yourself confidently navigating through exercises.
10 Versatility
Versatility is where the suspension trainer truly shines, earning it a perfect score.
And it really is well-earned.
It’s not an exaggeration to say the range of exercises you can perform with suspension trainers is unparalleled. From basic movements suitable for beginners to advanced, gravity-defying maneuvers that challenge even the fittest individuals, this equipment is a fitness enthusiast’s dream.
Squats, lunges, push-ups, rows, planks – you name it, and the suspension trainer can modify and intensify it. The ability to adjust the length of the straps and change body positioning allows for endless variations.
It’s a single piece of equipment that accommodates various fitness levels and workout goals, making it an excellent addition to both home and gym workouts.
9.7 Total Body Score
Upper Body: 9.9 | Lower Body: 9.5 | Core: 9.7
Upper Body
When it comes to sculpting the upper body, the suspension trainer is a silent heavyweight.
The design allows for a full range of motion, activating muscles in ways traditional weights often can’t. From bicep curls that engage both the concentric and eccentric phases of the movement to challenging back exercises that target every angle, the upper body workout options are both diverse and effective.
The adjustable straps offer the flexibility to target specific muscle groups, making it a valuable tool if you are looking to build strength or tone your upper body. I have felt the burn firsthand; I can confidently say that the suspension trainer takes upper-body workouts to a whole new level.
Lower Body
While the suspension trainer is primarily associated with upper body workouts, it doesn’t neglect the lower body.
Leg curls, lunges, squats – these basic lower body exercises become dynamic and challenging when performed with the added instability of suspension training. The adaptability of the equipment allows you to focus on different aspects of lower body strength, from quadriceps to hamstrings and glutes.
The constant engagement of stabilizing muscles during lower body exercises contributes to a more comprehensive and effective workout.
Core
If sculpting a strong, stable core is on your fitness agenda, the suspension trainer is your ally.
Core exercises using this equipment are not just about Crunches; they involve dynamic movements that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
From hanging Leg Raises that target the lower abs to challenging plank variations that work the entire core, the suspension trainer provides a diverse range of options.
9.6 Range of Resistance Levels
Adjustability is the name of the game, and the suspension trainer excels in offering a spectrum of resistance levels.
I love the ease of modifying the difficulty of exercises, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts.
By changing the length of the straps or your body positioning, you can control the intensity of your workout. This adaptability ensures that you’re constantly challenging your muscles, promoting continuous progression in your fitness journey.
It’s a feature that caters to people of all fitness levels, making it a versatile and inclusive choice.
9.6 Impact on Joints and Tendons
Another standout feature of the suspension trainer is its joint-friendly nature.
Unlike high-impact exercises that can put stress on joints and tendons, suspension training allows for controlled and joint-friendly movements. The ability to adjust your body’s position during exercises contributes to minimise unnecessary strain on joints.
Having witnessed the concerns of people at the gym with joint issues, I can confidently recommend the suspension trainer as a suitable option. It provides a challenging workout without compromising the long-term health of your joints and tendons.
9 Durability
Investing in fitness equipment is not just a financial commitment but a commitment to your safety.
The suspension trainer, when of high quality, proves to be a durable companion through intense workouts. Solid construction and the use of robust materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Having tested various brands and models, I can attest that a well-constructed suspension trainer not only enhances your workout experience but also ensures longevity. If you want the best suspension trainer, I usually tend to recommend one of the TRX models.
TRX offers a piece of equipment that withstands the test of time, providing a reliable platform for your fitness journey.
10 Portability
In a world where convenience is key, the portability of the suspension trainer is a popular feature.
Compact and lightweight, it turns any space into a potential workout zone. Whether you’re traveling, heading to the park, or simply moving your workout from one room to another – the suspension trainer is a gym that fits in your backpack.
The ease of setting it up anywhere with a secure anchor point adds to its appeal. Personally, I appreciate the importance of consistency in fitness, and the portability of the suspension trainer ensures that your workout routine doesn’t have to take a backseat – no matter where life takes you.
9.5 Economy (Purchase & Maintenance)
Quality comes at a price – and when it comes to fitness equipment, it’s an investment in your health.
While budget options exist, I strongly recommend considering reputable brands for your suspension trainer. A well-built and durable piece of equipment like the TRX, not only ensures safety during workouts – but also saves you from the hassle of frequent replacements.
Having experienced the longevity of quality suspension trainers, I can confidently say that the initial investment pays off in the long run.
It’s a case where spending a bit more upfront translates to a more cost-effective and satisfying fitness journey.
10 Size
In-home gyms, size is a crucial consideration.
And the suspension trainer, with its minimalistic design, takes up minimal space. This makes it a perfect fit for home gyms, apartments, or any setting where square footage is precious.
The compact nature of the suspension trainer doesn’t compromise its effectiveness, though. It’s a space-efficient solution for all who want to prioritize their health without sacrificing living space.
After setting up several home gyms, I have felt the challenges of creating a functional workout space. And for me, the size of the suspension trainer makes it an attractive and practical choice.
Popular Brands
When it comes to suspension trainers, the market is teeming with options.
To help you navigate through the myriad choices, here’s a breakdown of five popular brands that have made a mark in the world of suspension training:
TRX
TRX, short for Total Resistance Exercises, is synonymous with suspension training.
Renowned for its high-quality straps and innovative anchoring systems, TRX has become a household name in the fitness industry. The brand’s commitment to durability and versatility makes their suspension trainers a top choice for both beginners and advanced users.
With a plethora of online resources and a robust community, TRX offers more than just equipment – it provides a complete fitness ecosystem.
WOSS
Woss Enterprises brings affordability to the forefront without compromising on quality.
Their suspension trainers are well-regarded for their sturdiness and effectiveness. Woss is a go-to brand for people who want a reliable suspension trainer – without breaking the bank.
With adjustable straps and durable handles, Woss delivers a solid workout experience, making it a favorite among budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts.
NOSSK
Known for its commitment to simplicity and functionality, NOSSK offers suspension trainers that cater to a wide range of people.
Their emphasis on easy setup and versatile exercises makes them suitable for both home workouts and on-the-go fitness enthusiasts.
NOSSK’s focus on practicality without unnecessary frills appeals to people who prefer a straightforward approach to suspension training.
Lifeline Fitness
Lifeline Fitness has carved a niche for itself by blending innovation with durability.
Their suspension trainers boast features like premium built-in handles for a comfortable grip and an emphasis on ergonomic design.
Lifeline Fitness understands the importance of user experience, making their equipment not only effective – but also user-friendly. For people seeking a balance between cutting-edge design and functional simplicity, Lifeline Fitness might be the perfect choice.
GoFit
GoFit takes a holistic approach to fitness, and their suspension trainers reflect this philosophy.
Known for their quality construction and user-friendly design, GoFit’s suspension trainers cater to a diverse audience. With a range of adjustable features and a commitment to providing educational resources, GoFit ensures that owners not only have effective equipment – but also the knowledge to make the most of it.
For a brand that combines reliability with a wealth of fitness information, GoFit is a solid choice.
Exercise Equipment that Complements a Suspension Trainer
Enhancing your workout routine often involves a mix of equipment to target different muscle groups and intensify your exercises.
When it comes to pairing equipment with a suspension trainer, the synergy can elevate your fitness experience to new levels.
Here are five pieces of exercise equipment that complement a suspension trainer seamlessly:
Tips From Erik
“Adding complementary exercise equipment to your suspension training regimen not only diversifies your workouts but also maximizes results. Incorporating tools like resistance bands, kettlebells, or weighted vests challenges your muscles in new ways, promoting strength gains, balance, and coordination. By integrating various equipment types, you create a synergy that enhances overall fitness and keeps your routine fresh and engaging.”
Owner of hometraininghero
Kettlebells
Kettlebells and suspension trainers are a dynamic duo.
The instability created by the suspension trainer challenges your stability and engages core muscles, while kettlebells add resistance to compound movements.
Whether incorporating kettlebell swings with a suspended plank or performing lunges with added weight, the combination intensifies your workout, promoting strength and stability simultaneously.
Resistance Bands
Combining suspension trainers with resistance bands creates a workout environment that targets muscles from different angles.
The adjustable resistance of bands complements the versatility of suspension training, allowing you to customize the intensity of various exercises.
This pairing is particularly effective for engaging stabilizer muscles, making your workouts more comprehensive and challenging.
Medicine Ball
Medicine balls bring an element of explosive power to your suspension training routine.
Pairing them with exercises like squat jumps or medicine ball slams while using the suspension trainer for stability enhances both strength and cardiovascular benefits.
The integration of medicine balls adds variety and intensity, making your workouts not only effective – but also dynamic and engaging.
Dumbbells
Dumbbells and suspension trainers create a symbiotic relationship that caters to both unilateral and bilateral movements.
Whether performing single-arm rows or traditional bicep curls, the suspension trainer adds an element of instability, forcing your muscles to work harder for balance.
This combination enhances muscle engagement, promotes symmetry, and adds an extra layer of challenge to your strength training routine.
Weighted Vest
A weighted vest seamlessly amplifies the impact of suspension training by adding an extra layer of resistance.
By donning a weighted vest during exercises like suspended lunges or pull-ups, the body experiences increased load, intensifying muscle engagement. This elevated challenge not only promotes strength development but also enhances cardiovascular benefits.
The combination of a weighted vest and suspension trainer transforms workouts into a potent fusion of resistance and bodyweight training, fostering a more robust and efficient fitness regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions?
Check out some of the top FAQs below. Hopefully, you will find the answers you are searching for.
Absolutely! Suspension trainers are highly effective for building strength, enhancing flexibility, and improving overall fitness.
Their versatility allows for a wide range of exercises targeting various muscle groups. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced fitness enthusiast, the adaptability of suspension trainers makes them an excellent addition to any workout routine.
Yes, suspension training is beneficial for most people.
Its adjustable nature accommodates different fitness levels, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned athletes alike. The instability introduced during exercises engages core muscles, improves stability, and promotes functional strength.
However, people with certain health conditions or injuries should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating suspension training into their routine.
While suspension trainers offer numerous benefits, there are some potential drawbacks.
The primary disadvantage is the initial learning curve, as mastering proper form can take time. Additionally, people with certain joint or stability issues might find the instability challenging.
Ensuring proper setup and form, along with a gradual progression, can help mitigate these challenges.
Absolutely! Suspension trainers are excellent tools for building muscle.
The instability they introduce requires constant engagement of stabilizer muscles, leading to a more comprehensive muscle workout.
By adjusting the angles and resistance levels, you can target specific muscle groups effectively. Whether your goal is muscle toning, strength building, or overall fitness – a well-designed suspension training routine can contribute significantly to muscle development.