The TRX system is extremely versatile. Although many use it purely for strength training, it can also be used for warmups and cool downs with special stretches. The straps can provide extra support and stability for getting deeper into regular stretches. These are recommended for advanced users who may already have a good amount of flexibility but would like to push things further. Just remember to be careful when doing the movements to avoid muscle strain. Stop before it gets painful. Just get a nice stretch and move on. Below are some things that you might want to try:
Chest Stretch
A lot of us have a problem with slouching due to spending hours in front of the computer every day for work. It’s hard to correct our posture but some stretches can help us do so. The chest stretch lengthens and relaxes the affected chest muscles. Do this by facing away from the anchor point grabbing the handles at each side. Just walk forward until the arms are perpendicular to the ground and the thumbs are pointing to the ceiling. Stop when you feel the stretch on your shoulders. Don’t lean. Inch your whole body forward to deepen the stretch.
Torso Twist Stretch
This one helps to improve lateral mobility and relieve tension along the IT band. Runners are familiar with the dreaded ITBS injury which causes sharp knee pain. This stretch can be part of a good prevention routine. It also opens up the lats and the throracic spine. Do this by facing the anchor point and grabbing the handles jointly. Walk back, bend over, pull the straps, and cross your left leg to the other side. Your body should form a twisted V. You should feel the stretch across your back and around your hips. Do the same thing with the other side.
Figure 4 Stretch
Everyone is familiar with the figure-4 seating position wherein one leg is crossed over the other leg. If you are in a chair, then you can do this and bend forward to feel a good stretch around your buttocks. This will prevent knee injuries, sciatica, and plantar fasciitis. You can also do the figure-4 sitting on the floor with your hands on the TRX stretches. You can use the straps to pull your upper body towards your knees to increase the piriformis stretch.
TRX stretches are easy and extremely useful for injury prevention.
