Bodyweb with the TRX System sounds something we'd find on the back of a Spider-Man DVD.
Instead, it's a component of the popular suspension training exercise program making inroads across the States. The ''total resistance exercise'' (TRX, for short) suspension system is a pair of yellow straps with black handles attached to a playground-like rod that looks like a swing set sans the swings.
Suspension training involves holding onto those straps, leaning back or forward depending on the exercise, and performing a series of flexing moves to tone the biceps and triceps. You can also hang your legs through the straps to elevate them as you perform push-ups or flop over for abdominal crunches and leg presses and extensions.
For those who aim to develop stronger abs, one positive element of suspension training is its focus on engaging the core because the only way to properly steady yourself is to rely on those stomach muscles to keep you from swinging over into your classmates' space.
''Everything you do in this class you have to engage the core,'' says trainer Michael Travis at Crunch.
BODYWEB ***
DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY
Bodyweb training with instructor Michael Travis at Crunch features knee tucks, lunges, chest presses, flys, push-ups, biceps curls and triceps extensions, among other exercises.
''It's a total body workout and any fitness level can do it,'' Travis insists.
Perhaps. But the deeper you recline while grasping the handles, the harder it will be to pull your body up to do a biceps curl.
Some moves are easier than others. The flys -- for the chest area -- proved especially difficult. Beginners ought to take it easy. If you lack core strength to stabilize yourself or some basic arm strength, you could hurt yourself. Owing to some pervasive competitive spirit, I spent my first Bodyweb class in the deepest incline. Travis teased that I could make it easier by reclining at a less steep angle, but being branded a wuss -- even if it's only in my own head -- always outshines my better sense.
I'm in decent shape. I managed.
FUN FACTOR
Crunch classes are always imaginative. Of the three I've covered for this column -- previously African Dance and Buff Yoga -- Bodyweb's my favorite. I felt I got something more out of this class and liked its sharper focus on strength training. Travis doesn't use music. You work out in the middle of the room near a boxing ring, and that's fine. For this type of workout it's better to follow the trainer's count and instructions to make sure you're doing it right. Travis' friendly style spurred us onward.
TO DO IT
Crunch Gym, 1259 Washington Ave., Miami Beach; 305-674-8222.
When: 5:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; 7:15 a.m., 5 and 6 p.m. Tuesday; 7:15 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. Saturday; 5 p.m. Sunday.
Cost: $24 for a day pass, includes use of gym.
RATING SCALE: Zero (Worthless) to Four Stars (Outstanding)
