Buying Guide: How to Choose Workout Suspension Straps

Step 1

For those who are interested in getting an entire full-body calisthenics workout, suspension straps are very helpful. If you're only interested in doing occasional calisthenics, suspension straps are still great. By being lightweight and easy to take to the gym or set up at home, suspension straps are one of the most enjoyable pieces of fitness equipment available.

Step 2

All suspension straps are fairly expensive. All are made of heavy-duty nylon. But the most expensive come with a full set of accessories like storage bags and handles.

Step 3

When choosing suspension straps, consider how much quality you want. The more money you spend, the better and longer lasting straps you'll get. Every set of straps will get the job done - to some extent.

Step 4

If you're hardcore on doing calisthenics and bringing those kinds of workouts to the gym, then the expensive straps are great.

Step 5

If you just want to play around a little bit with the straps and get a feel for them, there's nothing wrong with grabbing a cheap pair.

Step 6

Consider portability. Some come with a carrying case or bag.

Step 7

Some models include accessories.

Step 8

Some models come with an instruction chart or manual or give extra tips for training.

Step 9

If it includes a warranty, how long is the warranty? Are there any fees associated with getting the item repaired or replaced?

Step 10

Consider thickness of the bands. Are they thick bands or thin tubes?

Step 11

What do you need to anchor the bands to?

Step 12

Consider padding of the handles. Some handles are covered with foam and others have molded rubber grips.

Step 13

Take a look at a few of the options below. Hopefully, you'll feel good about indulging in the suspension workout phenomenon.

Step 14

One set of straps that I'm advocating is the FE Strong's Home Gym Trainer: Pro Suspension Exercise System. These straps come with rubber grips that are typically found on suspension sets costing more than $200. Believe it or not, this set will only cost you $99. Besides the rubber grips, you get nylon straps that are extremely durable. They easily handle more than 500 pounds. They are easy to set up on any hook or rafter inside of a house, a garage, a gym, or anywhere with a roof. This is a quality set of straps and you should be proud to own them.

Step 15

The next set is TRX's PRO Suspension Kit. TRX is the cream of the suspension-strap crop. These straps fit inside of a bag that has theft-resistant carbine. The straps themselves have rubber handles and are made to last a very long time. The set costs more than $200, but comes with 2 DVDs and a TRX workout program. If you've got the money, this set is absolutely the best possible buying option. This set is portable, usable, and very durable.

Step 16

There are other straps on Amazon that cost around $20.00 and will work just fine for the occasional user. They have foam handles and they're made out of material that'll hold a solid amount of weight. They will also last for decent amount of time. If you're trying to save money, the cheaper straps are a fine choice. Maybe after using them for a while you'll upgrade to the two kinds of straps that I've recommended above.