Spring is just around the corner, and before you know if we’re going to be approaching the “shed the layers for something skimpy” season. Whether you’re bikini-body-ready or not, we’re always looking for fun new methods of exercise, and the latest craze in cardio has got us working muscles we didn’t even know we had.

The TRX suspension fitness was designed by a Navy Seal, thus advertising the boot camp fitness name that appeals to so many. It is designed for the old and young, fit and frumpy, stay-at-home mom or NBA All-star.

Where’s the catch? The suspension fitness system involves the leverage of your own body weight in an easy-to-set-up portable trainer that allows you to perform various exercises to build strength, flexibility, and balance among other benefits from the comfort of your own home, or at the gym. It is unique in design in that it uses your own personal body weight to adjust the level of your fitness, challenging your body to the best of its abilities.

For beginners, you can cut down your training time by working your entire body all within a few exercises, changing from one to the next in just seconds. Using the suspension system engages your core with every exercise, and not just your abs — this includes pelvis, glutes, back and chest too, so be prepared to sweat!

The TRX system’s goal is to build your core strength to prevent injuries in everyday activities, and improve bone density. It has gained popularity by the USA Water Polo team, triathletes worldwide, and even celebrities like Kim Kardashian. While your average workout involves stabilized motion while seated, or running on a treadmill forward or backward, these exercises don’t engage the core in the way that you move in everyday life. The TRX system creates movement in every direction, thus preparing you for easier everyday activities like mowing the lawn, picking up the newspaper, or playing basketball on asphalt.

Find out more about the TRX system at the Seattle Athletic Club by signing up for a group class, or taking a one-on-one course with a personal trainer.