Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/105435
Getting Fit l u k e r u Ta n By Jon Peterson, WAC Group Fitness Instructor One advantage of the RIP Trainer is its ability to strengthen weak pivot and rotation points at the shoulders. Build strength without damage Embrace asymmetry with RIP Trainer and TRX equipment T he human body isn't naturally symmetric. Our feet are not the same size. Our hands are not the same dimension. And our legs are not the same length— or strength. Our anatomy, naturally, is void of symmetry. Why is it, for example, that while strength training and using machinery such as a shoulder press only one of our shoulders gets injured? The same effect is seen with running and other athletic training. One knee gets hurt, one hamstring pulled, one hip displaced. In the past 20 years or so, strength training has undergone a massive makeover. It has grown from isolated strength conditioning that focuses on the chest, triceps, back and biceps, to a greater emphasis on overall conditioning, introducing balance and small-muscle strengthening that better support our overall muscular systems. For overall conditioning, consider using a RIP Trainer or TRX equipment. Both blend stability and strength exercises and minimize injury risk. These devices have also restored interest in individual and group strength conditioning for all ages, genders and fitness levels. The RIP Trainer uses an anchor point, and the elasticized bar allows the user to perform a range of actions on a multiplicity of body planes. Changing the grip from left to right or narrow to wide forces the body to use its 22 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | FEBRUARY 2013 stabilizer muscles throughout the action. An advantage of the RIP Trainer is its ability to strengthen weak pivot and rotation points at the shoulders, knees and lower back, and to support their associated muscle, ligament and tendon groups. TRX is similar to the RIP Trainer, integrating an anchor point, but allows the user to perform actions that face forward, away or to the side for an over-all awareness and sensation. While the RIP Trainer focuses on muscle strength training, TRX benefits the support systems, such as the ligaments, tendons and connective tissues. In recent years, TRX equipment has grown in popularity and been endorsed by high-profile athletes and celebrities. TRX has proven to yield effective results and is an easy and portable device to merge into your daily exercise routine. The WAC offers classes and workouts using the RIP Trainer and TRX suspension training equipment for all fitness levels and ages. Embrace your innate asymmetry, bring balance and core strengthening to your body, and prevent injury through workouts. Jon Peterson is a WAC Group Fitness Instructor. He can be reached at jpeterson@wac.net.