What are the latest trends and innovations in suspension training?

1 Hybrid workouts

One way to spice up your suspension training is to combine it with other modalities, such as kettlebells, resistance bands, or even yoga. This creates a dynamic and diverse workout that targets different muscle groups and energy systems, and prevents boredom and plateaus. For example, you can alternate between suspension exercises and kettlebell swings, or use resistance bands to add more tension and variety to your suspension moves.

2 Multi-planar movements

Another trend in suspension training is to incorporate more multi-planar movements, which means moving in different directions and angles, not just forward and backward. This mimics how we move in real life and sports, and enhances our functional fitness and performance. For example, you can perform suspension lunges or squats with a twist, or suspension rows or push-ups with a rotation.

3 Progressive overload

Progressive overload is a key principle of any effective training program, and it applies to suspension training as well. It means gradually increasing the intensity, volume, or complexity of your workouts to challenge your muscles and stimulate growth and adaptation. You can do this by changing the angle, distance, or speed of your suspension exercises, or by adding more reps, sets, or time under tension.

4 Mobility and recovery

Suspension training is not only great for building strength and endurance, but also for improving mobility and recovery. Mobility is the ability to move your joints through their full range of motion, and it can prevent injuries, reduce pain, and enhance performance. Recovery is the process of restoring your muscles and tissues after a workout, and it can speed up your progress and prevent overtraining. You can use suspension training to perform mobility drills and stretches, such as suspension chest openers, hamstring curls, or hip flexor extensions.

5 Online coaching and classes

With the pandemic and the rise of online fitness platforms, many people have turned to suspension training as a convenient and effective way to work out at home or anywhere. You can find online coaching and classes for suspension training that suit your needs and preferences, whether you want to follow a structured program, join a live session, or access a library of on-demand videos. You can also connect with other suspension enthusiasts and trainers through social media or online communities.

6 Smart suspension systems

The last trend we will mention is the emergence of smart suspension systems that use technology to enhance your suspension training experience. These are devices that connect to your suspension straps and measure your performance, such as your reps, calories, power, or balance. They also provide feedback, guidance, and motivation through an app or a screen. Some examples of smart suspension systems are TRX MAPS, FITINDEX Suspension Trainer Kit, or Suspension Training Lab.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?