Walk into any gym and take a look around. Most gyms have the same regular set-up with cardio machines, free weights, all sorts of weighted equipment, and some random gimmicks thrown in the corner geared to get you fit. So how often do you engage your core and use your own bodyweight for resistance… never, right? The fact you have been missing out on training that will enhance all capabilities you bring to the field should make you quite uncomfortable. TRX is a tool used by many pro athletes and one of the most notable, Drew Brees, swears by it being an essential asset for keeping him in prime form, year round. Here are three reasons every athlete needs to use TRX.

1. Fully attacks the core

All athletes are told that core strength is a make or break attribute. Elite athletes excel in both direct and indirect core strength. Direct core strength is used for exercises like crunches or GHD sit-ups. Indirect core strength is used in movements like a one-arm overhead press or kettlebell swings. Think of the body in two parts, the torso and the limbs. No matter what the limbs are doing, the torso must work to apply power to create movement or overcome the resistance from other players. A shortstop, running deep into the hole, would never be able to throw out a baserunner without amazing abdominal strength. Training the core through a vast range of angles can ensure superior abdominal strength.

2. Enhances balance and stability

The key to all athletic movement is a strong foundation. The ability to stabilize the body and balance throughout movement truly separates the “Joe” from the “Pro”. Standing on one leg for an extended period is not athletic, but when you watch a running back cut, lower his center of gravity, resist hits, and change direction in a split second – that is the epitome of athletics in action. The TRX is used unilaterally to isolate body parts, but also, to force an athlete to develop their balance. Training with a TRX will force you to become comfortable in less than optimal positions, increasing your gametime performance in ever-changing conditions.

3. It’s incredibly portable

How many times have you heard “I was on vacation” for the reason why someone didn’t workout? The excuse often goes into detail about gyms not being available, the equipment was sub-par, or even “I just didn’t have time”. Sure, a kettlebell is portable but how many people want to fly with a 50lb kettlebell in their lap? The capability to pack everything you need into a drawstring bag that weighs less than two pounds is the gym rat’s dream. You can workout anywhere you find a point to attach your TRX and get that workout done in less than 30 minutes. Sounds like an infomercial, I know, but former Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick, the inventor and CEO of TRX, built the equipment based on the premise of there being no excuse for missing a workout. In your home, at a hotel room, or at the beach – anywhere can be your gym.

You may laugh and say, “This is easy, how hard can TRX be”… However, the only ones laughing are the ones who haven’t tried it.