If you’re contemplating skipping the gym membership and building a home gym instead, the task can seem daunting given the amount of equipment needed to truly get the most out of your workout.
Dumbbells, barbells, benches, racks, and even all-purpose exercise machines- a home gym can quickly become an enormous task.
With limited space, limited time, and little money, home gym builders need a product that will meet the requirements, yet remain effective. This is why suspension trainers have been, and continue to be, a popular alternative for those looking for a more straightforward approach to at home or on-the-go fitness.
Suspension trainers are an extremely simple and versatile approach to fitness based on three principles: bodyweight, gravity, and leverage.
By utilizing the two adjustable straps with grips and footholds, you can get a full-body workout in a relatively short session. Whether you’re at home, the office, or outdoors they are quick and easy to set up. The only limitation seems to be the imagination when formulating a workout plan.
It’s nearly impossible to discuss suspension trainers without TRX coming up in conversation. Truth be told, many suspension trainers are simply referred to as TRX even if another brand produces them. TRX is a suspension training pioneer.
TRX was developed by a Navy Seal Commander in 1997, and since then, the system has continued to evolve ever to cater to new market demands.
Over the years, TRX has released new models, refining and perfecting their unique approach to fitness.
One of their more recent releases has been the TRX PRO4 to rival their previous model, the TRX PRO3.
This article will look at the two TRX models, outline the differences between them, and comment on which system is preferable.
Price
Although opting for a TRX system for your home gym will be vastly cheaper than purchasing the various amounts of equipment that we referred to earlier, price is still a consideration when choosing between the TRX PRO3 and TRX PRO4.
The TRX PRO4 is currently retailing for $234.95 (usually $249.95) when purchased directly from the TRX website.
However, TRX is regularly posting sales throughout the year, and as Christmas quickly approaches, be sure to keep an eye out for great discounts.
As for the TRX PRO3 the average price seems to fall in about the $175.00-$200.00 range.
We say average as the TRX PRO3 is no longer available on the TRX website as they always offer their most current and up to date equipment. While you will still find it on many retail sites, we warn our readers to be aware of the risks when purchasing from independent sellers.
If you come across a price that seems too good to be true, it possibly is. Unfortunately, given the number of knock-off TRX systems on the market, this is a legitimate concern.
TRX Inclusions
When purchasing both the TRX PRO3 and TRX PRO4, you will receive the following:
- TRX PRO series suspension trainer – Consisting of the durable webbing straps with the attached handles and foot cradles.
- Barrel lock adjusters – Used for adjusting the length of the straps to suit a variety of individuals and exercises.
- Suspension Anchor – Allowing the user to secure the TRX to trees, beams, poles, pull-up bars, or any overhead structure.
- Door Anchor – For indoor workouts, this can be placed above the door before closing it to secure an anchor point.
- TRX Xtender – Used to lengthen the anchor straps for any out of reach points.
- Mesh carry bag – For quick and compact storage and portability
How do they differ?
Seeing the above inclusions for both the TRX PRO3 and TRX PRO4 may have you wondering what the differences between the two are. In the upgrade, TRX has made a couple of subtle yet handy modifications.
The TRX PRO4 has a locking carabiner at the attachment point. The suspension trainer comes with a tool used to lock the system in place and cannot be undone without the TRX tool.
This is great for users who may secure their TRX outside in plain view or in any situation in which you may leave it unattended for some time. It’s also a fantastic feature for any commercial facilities or TRX gyms that want to avoid the possibility of theft.
The TRX PRO4 is also designed with adjustable straps on the foot cradle. Adding to the comfortability and fit for all users, the TRX PRO4 can be used by various family members or shared amongst friends. Furthermore, for any TRX trainers out there, this is a great option to offer clients.
Lastly, when purchasing the TRX PRO4 directly for the manufacturer, you will receive a free one-year subscription to the TRX app (regularly $49.95).
This provides access to countless exercises with audio guidance from real coaches. And for those that like to track activity levels, a variety of fitness wearables, such as watches, can be linked to the app for heart rate monitoring and calorie expenditure.
The Verdict
The effectiveness of the TRX system is not in question. Both the TRX PRO3 and the TRX PRO4 are terrific alternatives to pricey and possibly cluttered gym equipment. It just comes down to which one is right for the customer.
Given the slight price difference and the more recent improvements, we can’t help but recommend the TRX PRO4 when given a choice between the two.
When you consider the locking carabiner, adjustable foot straps, and one-year subscription, it is well worth the extra cost. That being said, older models sometimes can carry with them significant discounts.
If readers are aware of scam products and find legitimate deals on an older TRX model, they can get a durable and effective product at a lower cost.
With the security of purchasing directly from TRX, customers receive an authentic product with a warranty against defects and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Like any investment, sometimes it is best to invest a little more at the start and gain a lot more in the end.
Flo has been working out since her teens. With an affinity for calisthenics and suspension training, she specialises in mobility and bodyweight strength training.
