These TRX alternatives not only cost less, but they offer most, if not all of the same benefits.
Suspension training uses body weight for resistance and is one of the most effective and versatile training methods. This form of training has been around since the 1800s (known as rope training). But it wasn’t until former Navy seal and Stanford MBA graduate Randy Hetrick brought the TRX (total resistance exercise) to market following his time serving in the military.
There’ve since been others who’ve tried to compete but TRX has remained the most in-demand suspension trainer system, the OG, bringing in $60 million per year.
Sure, there are disadvantages of using a suspension trainer, but it’s an incredibly beneficial tool to add to your fitness routine.
Today we go over the best suspension trainer alternatives and make sure to stick around to learn more about this effective training tool.
TRX Alternatives Ranked
- RitFit Suspension Trainer – Buy here Editor’s Choice
- NOSSK TWIN Pro Suspension Trainer – Buy here
- ComCor Sports Suspension Trainer – Buy here
- FITINDEX Kit – Buy here
- Moulyan Suspension Trainer – Buy here
- Keafols Suspension Trainer – Buy here
- Koboo Suspension Trainer – Buy here
- Lifeline Jungle Gym XT Suspension Trainer – Buy here
- Eximius Suspension Trainer – Buy here
- Valor Fitness ED-20 VFX 3.0 Suspension Trainer – Buy here
Editor’s Choice – RitFit Suspension Trainer
The RITFIT kit is another TRX alternative that we recommend. You can attach these to anywhere from doors to rafters, trees, ceilings, you name it.
They are adjustable and come with an extension strap for additional length which can certainly come in handy.
The kit includes a foam anchor, mesh carrying bag, and a progressive workout guide.
You also have the option to purchase the set with or without gymnastics rings that you can attach to the Screwgate locking carabiner and work on other areas of performance and fitness.
Just be sure to select which option you want.
Product features
- 56-77 inch adjustable straps
- 38-inch Extension straps
- Foam anchor
- Non-slip handles
- Screwgate locking carabiner
- Resistance adjuster
- Detailed, progressive workout guide
- Mesh storage bag
- Gymnastics rings (not included but optional)
Pros
- Extension straps offer more length
- Progressive workout guide help with training progress
- Can purchase with gymnastics rings
- Heavy-duty carabiners support more weight
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons
- A few complaints about material comfort
- Heavy carabiners add extra weight
Who makes it
RitFit was founded in 2014, NYC, with the goal of offering a good value in exercise products.
From their website:
“RitFit aims to provide affordable but sturdy fitness equipment, helping everyone to create the ideal home gym on a shoestring budget. Designing a home gym does not necessarily have to be expensive! RitFit is to enable you to purchase the most effective and necessary equipment for a gym of your own.”
NOSSK TWIN Pro Suspension Trainer
NOSSK Twin Pro suspension straps are top-notch quality and made in the USA with military-grade webbing for ultra durability.
It’s also a split design so you can attach the straps at points farther away from each other and take advantage of a variety of applied forces to the muscles.
The foot straps are similar to the TRX but durable and then you get the additional accessories such as a door anchor, exercise chart, and carrying bag.
Also can’t beat a lifetime warranty.
Product features
- Adjustable straps (1-8 foot length)
- Built-in lightweight and non-intrusive door anchor
- US military webbing straps
- Trainer is up to 8 feet long
- Non-scratching foot loops
- Rubber sleeve grips
- Exercise and instruction guide
- Drawstring bag
- Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Military-grade, commercial quality
- Includes built-in door anchor
- Genuine USA quality
Cons
- few complaints about strap tightness
Who makes it
NOSSK believes “first-class health and fitness equipment should be accessible to all“.
But more specifically, they’re passionate about making quality suspension trainers that are much more affordable.
“We are also passionate about doing our small part to change the world – One Trainer, One person at a time through spreading love, kindness and positivity, as cheesy as it may sound. So from the moment we touch you, we want your life to be positively impacted because you were touched by NOSSK.”
Their products are manufactured right here in the USA, using US-based workers and USA products where possible.
ComCor Sports Suspension Trainer
The ComCor suspension trainer is on the higher end of the price spectrum but it’s a steal for what you get.
It’s made from premium quality materials and is made in the USA. The set includes motorcycle cam buckles, beefy 4″ carabiners, and durable foam grips.
The set also comes with a tree anchor that’s easy to adjust and a carrying bag.
Another great feature is that you can scan a QR code for a variety of workouts on YouTube.
The straps have a lifetime warranty.
Product features
- Motorcycle cam buckles
- 4″ carabiners
- Durable foam grips
- Easy to adjust tree anchor
- Carrying bag
- Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Super durable materials
- Simple design
- Comes with a handy tree anchor
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- May be a little heavier
Who makes it
ComCor is short for combat core; a website started by a man named Jeff who started showcasing his high-quality sled pull harnesses and suspension trainers. The products are USA-made.
FITINDEX Kit
You’ll get a little more with this kit as it includes resistance loop bands in addition to the suspension straps.
The bands offer a few different resistance levels: light (10 lbs), medium (15 lbs), heavy (20 lbs), and ultra-heavy (25 lbs).
The suspension straps are adjustable and include extender straps to extend the length. Non-slip handles ensure you maintain a firm grip during training and the alloy grommets ensure safety during exercise.
Product features
- 68-inch adjustable resistance straps
- 15-inch extender strap
- Non-slip handles
- Resistance loop bands
- Bold zinc alloy grommets
- Includes a black storage bag
- Includes one fitness action guide
Pros
- Numbered strap adjustments
- Extender straps give more length
- Resistance bands offer more workout options
Cons
- Few complaints about instructions/how to use
- Not much info on the brand
Who makes it
FITINDEX is a world-class fitness brand that offers a wide range of health and fitness products.
Moulyan Suspension Trainer
The Moulyan resistance band is unique in that it has integrated ring handles as opposed to the straight handles that most come with. The handles are built for comfort and durability and there are removable foot pads inside of the handles to place your feet which is pretty cool.
The straps are very heavy-duty and also adjustable as we prefer and the straps and handles have a high bearing capacity.
They can be attached to various objects, and come with a carrying bag and exercise guide.
Product features
- 2-8 foot adjustable straps
- Ring-shaped handles
- Removable foot pads
- Adjustable straps
- Carrying bag
- Exercise guide
Pros
- Gym ring handles are a nice change
- Removable foot pads offer more comfort and ergonomics
Cons
- Few complaints about lack of instructions
Who makes it
Moulyan is another brand that offers a nice selection of decent quality products.
Keafols Suspension Trainer
Keafols is a great strap system that attaches the handles to the straps using a secure buckle system. You then attach the straps that have a carabiner to the door anchor or a wall/ceiling mount. So a similar design to the TRX.
The kit also comes with two foot cradles and a mesh carrying bag. If you like simplicity and function this is a perfect option.
Product features
- Buckle handle system
- Door anchor
- Anti-slip foam rubber grip handles
- Two foot cradles
- Mesh carrying bag
Pros
- Secure and easy-to-use buckle system
- Reinforced door anchor ideal for ensuring safer training
Cons
- Buckles can scuff surfaces if not careful
- Straps may be abrasive to skin
- Limited in attachment options
Who makes it
Keafols suspension trainer is a competitively priced alternative to the TRX.
Koboo Suspension Trainer
The Koboo suspension is one of the cooler-looking options. But don’t worry, it doesn’t lack in quality or workmanship.
Each kit includes straps made from thick nylon webbing, honeycomb wear-resistant foot straps, reinforced steel buckles, and enlarged alloy steel buckles. The TPR rubber handles also have a unique grip texture that we really like.
The straps also come with a fixed anchor and screws, door anchor, product manual, and a travel bag.
Product features
- 3.93 – 5.90 ft Adjustable suspension straps
- 35-inch long extension strap
- Reinforced steel buckle
- Door anchor
- TPR rubber handles
- Honeycomb wear-resistant foot straps
- Fixed anchor with screws
- Product manual
- Travel bag
Pros
- Cool design
- Comes with a mountable anchor and screws
- Extension straps add more length to workouts
- Textured handles may be preferred
Cons
- Small concern with adjustability
Who makes it
Koboo suspension trainer is a competitively priced alternative to the TRX.
Lifeline Jungle Gym XT Suspension Trainer
The Lifeline Jungle Gym XT suspension trainer has a patented split anchor design that allows exercisers to attach the straps at different widths.
The advantage of this is that there are different forces applied to the muscles due to the variation in angle. So you’ll have more exercise options to incorporate into your workouts.
Another thing we really like about this trainer is that it has an easy-in molded foot cradle made from a non-slip rubber material. With many suspension trainers, it can be a pain in the butt to place your feet inside of the flimsy handles for certain exercises. This is especially annoying when you’re doing quick workouts that require you to transition quickly between exercises.
The industrial suspension straps are adjustable too for different exercises and individuals.
You also get a large 3-level workout poster and access to 12 online workouts.
Product features
- Adjustable from 16-94 inches.
- Patented split anchor design
- Duro-link anchor
- Easy-in foot cradles
- Adjustable inline buckles
- Non-slip handles
- Workout chart and online instructions
Pros
- Split anchor design offers more training versatility
- Foot cradles allow for easy transitions
- Includes a workout poster and instructions
- Ergonomic handles
- Adjustable length
Cons
- Few complaints about straps and handles quality
Who makes it
Since 1973, Lifeline has developed revolutionary exercise products. The brand’s mission is to create life-improving wellness opportunities for everyone. They are innovators with over 20 patents.
Eximius Suspension Trainer
We chose the Eximius suspension trainer because it’s durable, versatile, and comes with a set of resistance loop bands and two exercise sliders that can be used for a variety of exercises.
The bands offer five levels of resistance: extra-light (5 lbs), light (15 lbs), medium (22.5 lbs), heavy (30 lbs), extra heavy (40 lbs).
Product features
- Adjustable straps
- Resistance loop bands
- Anti-slip handles
- Adjusting buckles
- Steel clips
- Sturdy door anchors
- Two exercise sliders
- Travel bag
Pros
- Includes resistance loop bands and exercise sliders
- Split anchor design offers more training versatility
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Resistance bands may be a little flimsy
Who makes it
Eximius suspension trainer is a competitively priced alternative to the TRX.
Valor Fitness ED-20 VFX 3.0 Suspension Trainer
To round out our list of the best TRX alternatives, the Valor Fitness ED-20 3.0 suspension trainer is a no-frills, top-notch product. The set includes two premium adjustable nylon straps (14 positions), an extension mounting strap, and a heavy-duty carabiner that’s easy to attach and detach.
The set also includes a storage bag.
Product features
- 44.5-60 inch adjustable suspension straps
- 38.5-inch extension strap
- Heavy-duty carabiner
- Storage bag
Pros
- Lightweight and adjustable
- Extension strap allows for more training versatility
Cons
- No specific foot straps what from what can see
Who makes it
Valor Fitness has over 400 products and it’s supplied equipment for over 100 events in Florida and is the official supplier for the Florida Grid League; a professional fitness league.
Their equipment is used by thousands of athletes at some of the most competitive events.
What Is The TRX Suspension Trainer?
The TRX is a training tool that leverages gravity and body weight to create resistance, and train other aspects of physical fitness such as core stability, balance, and flexibility all at the same time.
Therefore, it not only helps to build muscle and strength but there’s adequate carry over to everyday activities and athletic performance.
The many benefits of using the TRX system are a result of input from various branches including military, pro sports, athletes, academic institutions, professors, first responders, and experience from the TRX team.
The TRX design includes high-quality straps and accessories that allow you to attach them and suspend your body. And while the original version is a simple design, there have been several iterations that offer even more features.
Origins
The idea for the TRX was conceived by former Navy Seal and Stanford MBA graduate Randy Hetrick.
In 1997, Hetrick was deployed in Southeast Asia where he desired a more substantial alternative to the push-up; something that he could use to train multiple muscles, and that was low-profile. So he initially used his jiu-jitsu belt and parachute webbing to create the first version of the suspension training apparatus.
Then after completing his MBA in 2001, Hetrick left the military and took his idea to a variety of professionals including athletes, trainers, and sports medicine specialists. He started selling suspension trainers out of his garage in San Francisco, California with dreams of growing his business worldwide.
Hetrick received $350,000 from private investors through connections in the military and Stanford.
This allowed him to further develop and produce more of his product. And, well, the rest is history as there are several models from TRX and as mentioned, the company brings in $60 million per year and has a full team. Not to mention, they sell many other products to complement the TRX training system.
While the TRX alternatives on this list offer similar and some even all of the same benefits as the OG of suspension trainers, you’ll notice that there’s some variation between products.
However, many will only stick with the TRX design and that’s totally fine. But many only go with cheaper alternatives that provide a lot of the same function.
Read: 5 Best TRX Chest Exercises (Plus Workout) For Bigger Chest Gains
Benefits of Using A Suspension Trainer
There are many benefits to be had by utilizing a suspension trainer.
Build muscle and strength
This one is obvious but provided you can continually implement progressive overload, you’ll build muscle and strength using a suspension trainer.
What we mean by that is because you’re using your body weight for resistance, there will come a point in time when you’ll have to make some modifications to your exercise technique if you are to keep making progress.
How to do this? Well, you have a few options but feel free to get creative.
The first and most common method of increasing exercise difficulty when using a suspension trainer is to change your body position. For instance, you can make an exercise harder by reducing the angle between your body and the ground.
The next is to add weight. You can wear a weighted vest, backpack, or something similar.
Another way to make your workouts more challenging is to use common methods or techniques that involve changing your tempo, incorporating plyometric movements, using one leg or one arm at a time, etc.
Related: Best TRX Exercises For A Rock-Solid Back
Offers functional carryover
Having to balance and stabilize your entire body and core is beneficial for developing and increasing functional strength and performance. As a result, suspension trainers are excellent for athletes and anyone who wants to be more functional and limber.
While it isn’t the safest training tool for everyone due to the total-body coordination required to use it at an intermediate and advanced level, doing smaller, basic movements can be a good strategy for improving physical fitness.
Related: Savage Calisthenics Abs Workouts For Beast Gains (All Levels)
Improves cardio fitness/helps with fat loss
Because suspension training is more likely to involve total-body movement and workouts, it’s a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn more calories. As a result, bodyweight suspension training can positively impact cardiovascular disease risk factors according to a study by the American Council on Exercise (1).
Related article: Most Effective Ways To Burn Body Fat Without Doing Cardio
Portable
Trainers are usually lightweight and small enough to tote around in the provided carrying bag or your own bag. This is convenient especially if traveling or you want to train outdoors, at a park, etc.
What To Look For When Choosing A TRX Alternative
It’s important to remember that budget is a big factor in choosing a product. Sure, some suspension trainers have more bells and whistles and the quality may be a little better. But many brands are stepping it up and offering some great products at a fraction of the cost. Although, to many, the differences are worth spending the extra money for and there’s nothing wrong with original quality and peace of mind.
But we did include some brands that are passionate about offering affordable, yet quality options.
The TRX alternatives on our list range in price and can all do the job. But you may want to skim through and see which ones look ideal for your needs.
Features/accessories
The features/accessories can and do vary between products. For example, some have basic nylon foot straps while others are made with more rigid foot cradles that are much easier to place your feet into which can make a difference when transitioning between exercises.
Then you also have to consider the shape of the handle and material. Most have the basic horizontal grip but some offer gymnastic ring handles that are also very durable and ergonomic but it all depends on preference.
As for straps design and function, some TRX alternatives are a split design where you can attach the individual straps to separate points on your anchor, or like the original TRX, the straps are attached together at the end. The split anchor design gives you more options though as you can really challenge yourself and mix up the widths of which the straps are attached.
Most suspension trainers come with a door anchor but not all come with a mountable anchor that can be attached to the wall, ceiling, etc. So keep this in mind before purchasing.
That brings us to where you’re going to use it. If at home, a door anchor and/or mountable anchor is perfectly fine. If you want to train at a park, most can be looped around poles and smaller trees and some have specific accessories to be able to anchor your straps on a larger tree.
It’s also important to note that most suspension trainers are strong enough to support heavier individuals up to 400-450 lbs. Although extra caution needs to be taken due to the instability of using this functional exercise tool.
Need another option for anchoring your suspension trainer? Check out these outdoor pull-up bars.
Who Should Not Use a Suspension Trainer
Suspension trainers such as the TRX and TRX alternatives are not for everyone as there are a few concerns due to the nature of functionality.
The instability of suspension straps/using body weight as resistance poses a risk of injury, especially for certain individuals who lack in one or more areas of physical health/fitness.
For instance, a lack of core strength and stability, or having dealt with previous injuries or a lack of joint integrity are instances where suspension training should be avoided or extra precautions should be taken.
That doesn’t mean these individuals cannot use a suspension trainer but ideally, they should stick with specific, beginner variations that are easier and safer to perform.
Wrapping Up
There you have it, 10 best TRX alternatives currently on the market. While all will serve the same purpose, for the most part, there are a variety of features and accessories to choose from. Suspension trainers are one of the greatest inventions for getting in shape and developing/improving overall physical fitness and here are plenty of great options at an affordable price.