The best suspension trainers of 2025, tested and reviewed by a strength coach

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The best suspension trainers of 2025, tested and reviewed by a strength coach

We tested TRX and its competitors, including Recoil and Thysol, with price points ranging from $45 to $459 to find the best workout straps for strength, portability and value.

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Contributing writer and subject matter expert

Updated

Tue, December 2, 2025 at 11:12 PM UTC

Suspension trainers have evolved from a Navy SEAL field tool into one of the most versatile home-gym options around. These portable bodyweight training systems use your body weight and gravity to create full-body workouts (especially when combined with a weighted vest) that small studies indicate may help build strength, grow muscle, improve balance, and lock in core stability — all without the footprint or price tag of a traditional gym setup. "Suspension training utilizes your body weight as resistance, allowing you to adjust the intensity by changing your angle to the anchor point," says Meagan Kong, certified personal trainer and head of fitness at AlterMe. "That combination delivers real strength gains as an alternative to heavy lifting."

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"Suspension trainers can be used to build both muscle and strength like any other resistance training equipment if used with a proper training program that follows the progressive overload principle," explains exercise scientist Jim Stoppani, PhD. A study commissioned by the American Council on Exercise found that an eight-week suspension training program improved cardiovascular and muscular fitness while producing "positive modifications in several major health risk factors." Other research indicates suspension training has the ability to increase strength and power.

Beyond strength gains, suspension trainers offer unique functional benefits. "Working on a suspension trainer teaches you ways to use and control your body weight effectively," says Matt Tanneberg, D.C., a chiropractor and certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS). "People should make it their goal to be able to control their body weight in all movements before they move on to lifting weights or [doing] other forms of exercise." The constant challenge to your stability while suspension training means your core is engaged during every movement, improving balance and proprioception while taking up minimal space in your home.

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But with options ranging from $45 gymnastics rings to $459 retractable systems, and features like equalizer loops, push-button adjustment and rotating handles, choosing the best workout straps for your needs can feel overwhelming. Some options prioritize ultra-portability for travel, others offer premium construction for serious athletes and a few introduce genuinely innovative tech that transforms how suspension training feels. Whether you're looking for the best TRX alternatives or a complete resistance training kit, understanding the key differences can help you make the right choice.

To figure out which home suspension trainers are actually worth it, I tested nine systems across every price point and design style. I measured build quality, timed setup speeds, evaluated adjustment mechanisms under load and put each one through real workouts to see which offered the best combination of performance, durability, and value for different user needs.

Looking for other ways to enhance body control and strength? Pilates is a good option. Consider our reviews for the Flo Pilates Reformer and the Balanced Body Metro IQ.

Best overall suspension trainer

Recoil

Best overall

Recoil S2 Pro

Weight capacity: 330 lb. | Adjustment mechanism: Push-button retractable (stainless steel/aluminum housing) | Anchor options included: Integrated bag/door anchor, wall/ceiling mount, lashing strap | Equalizer feature: Yes (automatic via simultaneous adjustment) | Handle material: Grippy rubber over hard plastic | Strap configuration: Retractable straps stored in aluminum housing | Carry bag included: Yes (doubles as door anchor) | Additional features: Protective stitching covers, soft padded adjustable foot straps, auto-retracting, ultra-compact, can stay mounted

The Recoil S2 Pro wins our best overall award because it completely reimagines suspension training with a genius retractable system that solves every frustration we've encountered with traditional straps. Created by two U.K. bodyguards who needed a portable workout solution while traveling for work, the S2 Pro delivers push-button adjustment where both straps extend and retract simultaneously — no more stopping mid-workout to manually balance uneven straps or dealing with tangled webbing. With a 330-pound capacity and a precision-engineered stainless steel mechanism housed in sleek aluminum, it's the most premium suspension trainer we've tested.

What really sets the Recoil apart is how it transforms your workout flow. Press the button and pull to extend the straps to any length; release the button, and they automatically zip back into the housing. The S2 Pro makes angle and length adjustments effortless — literally push-button easy — while its auto-equalizing design means you never have to worry about one strap being longer than the other. 

In testing, the Recoil delivered the smoothest, most premium experience of any suspension trainer. The soft, padded foot straps are comfortable, even for hamstring curls. The handles are grippy without being padded, and unlike the Thysol and Bodytorc, there's zero arm rubbing during chest presses, thanks to protective covers over the stitching. The innovative bag doubles as a door anchor (genius design) and the ultra-compact size means it can stay mounted on a wall or door without being obtrusive, and it's perfect for travel. At $459 for the Pro version (which includes door anchor, wall/ceiling mount and lashing strap), it's expensive, but you're paying for a fundamentally better suspension training experience that makes every other system feel outdated.

Pros

• Push-button retractable system with simultaneous strap adjustment
• Ultra-compact storage
• Premium construction
• Can stay mounted without being obtrusive

Cons

• Very expensive
• Lower weight capacity (330 lb.) than some competitors

More suspension trainers we like for 2025

Thysol

Best budget suspension trainer

Thysol Pro Xtreme

Weight capacity: 551 lb. | Adjustment mechanism: Metal cam buckle | Anchor options included: Foam donut door anchor, extender strap | Equalizer feature: No | Handle material: Rubber over plastic | Strap configuration: Two separate independent straps | Carry bag included: Yes (mesh drawstring) | Additional features: Rotating handles, carabiner connections, instructions via QR code only

If you're curious about suspension training but not ready to drop a lot of cash, the Thysol Pro Xtreme is the only real option under $100. At $50, it delivers sturdy construction, metal hardware and rotating handles — enough to get you started without breaking the bank.

Stoppani recommends "starting with a basic model to see how you genuinely like suspension training and then look to add more accessories as you get comfortable." The Thysol fits this approach perfectly. Research indicates that suspension training can help build strength and muscle when used consistently. The Thysol's 551-pound weight capacity claim (though we're skeptical about the foam anchor supporting that) means it's built to handle bodyweight exercises for most users under 200 pounds.

Kong points out that suspension training's key benefit is "adjustable intensity that meets you where you are and scales as you get stronger." The Thysol delivers that core functionality, even if it lacks the refined features of pricier systems, such as the TRX's equalizer loop or comfortable padded handles.

Here's what you're giving up: The foam donut anchor feels less secure than TRX's robust designs, the instructions are confusing (QR code only with AI-generated text) and you'll need to swap an extender mid-workout for some exercises. The buckles also rubbed on my arms during chest presses, and the foot cradles have minimal padding.

But for $50, the Thysol is sturdy enough to build real strength. Just don't trust those weight claims if you're over 200 pounds — the anchor is the weak point.

Pros

• Sturdy construction for the price
• Rotating handles
• Metal hardware (cam buckle, carabiners)
• Compact and portable

Cons

• Poor instructions
• Foam donut anchor likely not very durable
• No equalizer loop (must manually balance straps)
• Less comfortable handles/foot cradles than TRX

Kensui

Best for travel

Kensui Nano Bars V2

Weight capacity: 600 lb. | Adjustment mechanism: Cam buckle | Anchor options included: Lashing strap for bars/racks (door anchor sold separately) | Equalizer feature: No | Handle material: Aircraft-grade aluminum with knurled finish (not padded) | Strap configuration: Two separate straps (16 ft.) with collapsible aluminum bar handles | Carry bag included: Yes (small cloth bag) | Additional features: 3-in-1 design (pushup bars, parallettes, suspension trainer), dual-mode handles (stable/rotate), fits in pocket when collapsed, NOT recommended for foot exercises

The Kensui Nano Bars V2 literally fits in your pocket. At just 375 grams (under a pound), this collapsible aluminum system packs down smaller than any suspension trainer we tested, making it perfect for traveling, park workouts or anyone who wants a full gym that doesn't take up space.

"The portability of suspension trainers makes them a highly versatile tool for anyone who is active or travels," says Stoppani, and the Nano Bars take that convenience to the extreme. Unlike bulky straps that require organization, these collapse into a tube that you can slip into a backpack or jacket pocket.

What makes them special is the 3-in-1 design. They function as pushup bars, parallel bars and suspension trainer straps with a 600-pound capacity — the highest we tested. The aircraft-grade aluminum handles lock in stable mode for dips and push-ups, then rotate for exercises like bicep curls. Tanneberg explains that suspension trainers are "lightweight to travel with and can be easily set up in a hotel room or on the road," and the Nano Bars nail this better than any other brand.

The trade-off? These are built for upper-body work. The knurled aluminum handles aren't padded, making them uncomfortable for extended sessions, and placing your feet in them for hamstring curls can be painful. In short, the Nano Bars focus on upper body strength and calisthenics movements.

At $49, they're a steal for travelers and calisthenics fans. Just don't expect the same level of full-body comfort that the TRX systems offer.

Pros

• Fits in pocket
• Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
• Highest weight capacity tested (600 lb)
• Excellent value

Cons

• Knurled aluminum handles less comfy, though grippy
• Door anchor sold separately
• Upper body focused (no foot straps)

TRX

Best heavy duty suspension trainer

TRX Pro4

Weight capacity: 350 lb. | Adjustment mechanism: Metal cam buckle| Anchor options included: Door anchor, suspension anchor, Xtender | Equalizer feature: Yes | Handle material: Grippy textured rubber over hard plastic | Strap configuration: Single integrated system | Carry bag included: Yes (mesh drawstring) | Additional features: Pro-grade locking carabiner with Allen key, more padded adjustable foot cradles, nearly one-handed adjustment, workout guide, TRX app access

When investing in home gym equipment that'll see daily use, durability is crucial. The TRX Pro4 scored the highest of any suspension trainer we tested (99/100) thanks to bombproof construction, grippy textured rubber handles and hardware that feels built to last decades.

Kong says quality materials are a must-have when choosing a suspension trainer. "Look for heavy-duty webbing, reinforced stitching, and reliable cam buckles or metal adjusters that do not slip, plus rated carabiners." The Pro4 delivers on every point — its improved cam buckle adjusts exceptionally smoothly, the locking carabiner secures with an Allen key, and the foot cradles have more padding than the cheaper TRX Home2 model.

In testing, the Pro4 felt like the refined version of an already great system. The grippy handles stayed secure even when sweaty, setup took just three minutes, and the equalizer loop kept straps balanced without manual adjustments. At $290 (when not on sale), it's $50 more than the Home2, but if you want the most heavy duty, comfortable suspension trainer under $300, the Pro4 is worth every penny.

Pros

• Grippy textured rubber handles and padded foot cradles
• Improved cam buckle for smoother adjustments
• Pro-grade locking carabiner with Allen key
• Equalizer loop prevents uneven straps

Cons

• More expensive than other similar systems
• Top straps may interfere if you have wide shoulders or during movements like dips

TRX

Best for beginners

TRX Home2

Weight capacity: 350 lb. | Adjustment mechanism: Metal cam buckle | Anchor options included: Door anchor, suspension anchor for tall doors (7'+ doors) | Equalizer feature: Yes | Handle material: Foam over hard plastic | Strap configuration: Single integrated system | Carry bag included: Yes (mesh drawstring) | Additional features: Adjustable foot cradles (hook-and-loop), workout guide poster, TRX app access

Starting with suspension training can feel intimidating, but the TRX Home2 makes it easy. With clear instructions, a comprehensive workout guide and access to expert-led routines via the app, this system eliminates the guesswork. At $180 on sale (regularly $240), it's the best value for beginners who want quality gear without the premium price tag.

Research shows suspension training is effective for all fitness levels. The ACE study found that participants ages 21 to 71 all saw improvements in strength, endurance and cardiovascular health after eight weeks. Tanneberg suggests that "people should make it their goal to be able to control their body weight in all movements," and Home2's equalizer loop (which keeps straps balanced automatically) enables beginners to focus on movement quality instead of fiddling with equipment.

Kong recommends that beginners use equipment that provides "clear length markings [on the straps] so you can repeat setups and track progression," which is what the Home2's straightforward adjustment and thoughtful extras, such as a tall door anchor for 7-foot+ doorways, help with. The adjustable foot cradles utilize simple hook-and-loop closures, making setup quick and easy, even if you've never used suspension straps before.

In testing, the Home2 performed exceptionally well with solid, durable construction that'll last for years. Setup took under 5 minutes, and the included workout poster gives you exercises to try immediately. The handles aren't as grippy as those of the Pro4, and the foot cradles have less padding. However, at $180 on sale, this is the smartest beginner buy.

Pros

• Useful accessories (workout guide, app access, tall door anchor)
• Clear instructions
• Equalizer loop
• Adjustable foot cradles (hook-and-loop)
• Durable build quality

Cons

• Handles and foot cradles less padded than Pro4
• Some rubbing on the arms during chest presses

Rep

Best gymnastics rings

Rep Fitness 1.11" Wood Gymnastic Rings

Weight capacity: 600 lb. | Adjustment mechanism: Cam claw | Anchor options included: None | Equalizer feature: No (but 1.5" numbered markings for strap alignment) | Handle material: Natural Baltic birch wood (1.11" or 1.25" diameter options) | Strap configuration: Two separate independent straps (14 ft. or 7 ft. options) | Carry bag included: No | Additional features: Olympic Federation compliant, natural rotation reduces injury risk, longest straps tested, 1-year warranty, also available in 1.25" diameter for larger hands

If you want authentic gymnastics training without spending hundreds of dollars, the Rep Fitness Wood Gymnastic Rings deliver Olympic-quality performance. These rings utilize the same Baltic birch wood found in competition gyms, featuring a 1.11" diameter that meets Olympic Federation specifications and works well for smaller hands (you can also choose a 1.25" diameter option). They're rated to 600 pounds and come with 14-foot straps — the longest we tested — which means you can use them almost anywhere.

What makes rings different from regular suspension trainers is how they move. The natural rotation reduces stress on your shoulders and elbows in ways padded handles can't match. Your core works overtime just to keep the rings steady. As Kong notes, suspension training requires constant core engagement, and the instability of rings takes this to the next level.

The cam claw adjustment locks tight with zero slippage, and numbered markings on the straps make it easy to set both sides to the same height. In testing, these rings took under five minutes to set up, even on the first try. The thick webbing feels solid, and the wood provides an excellent grip without tearing up your hands, unlike metal rings.

Rings work best for exercises like push-ups, dips, rows, chin-ups and single-leg moves, such as pistol squats. They're not ideal for hamstring curls or exercises where your feet go in the handles, and they don't come with a carrying bag. But for calisthenics training, bodyweight strength work or for anyone who wants to train like a gymnast, these are unbeatable value at $45.

Pros

• Premium Baltic birch wood
• Excellent value
• 600 lb. weight capacity
• Natural rotation reduces injury risk

Cons

• No anchor included
• No carrying bag included
• Not ideal for hamstring curls or feet-in-rings exercises

Types of suspension trainers

Traditional suspension trainers: These utilize padded handles and adjustable foot cradles for comprehensive full-body workouts. They’re the most versatile choice, with 2-inch straps that adjust from about 4 to 7 feet. Many models feature auto-leveling, ensuring the handles remain at a consistent length, allowing beginners to focus on form rather than adjusting the setup. They typically include door anchors for home use and pack down to about the size of a water bottle. Weight limits typically range from 200 to 400 pounds, and prices for premium, retractable systems range from $50 to over $ 650.

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Gymnastics rings: These offer natural rotation and classic Olympic-style training at a lower price. Wood or plastic rings replace padded handles, allowing your wrists to move freely and reducing strain on your shoulders and elbows. The trade-off: They’re tougher to use for suspended foot moves like hamstring curls because there aren’t dedicated foot cradles. Rings shine for upper-body exercises like pulling, pushing and advanced bodyweight skills. Quality wood rings start at around $45, making them the most budget-friendly option for serious strength training.

Hybrid/specialty systems: These combine suspension training with other tools to achieve maximum portability or incorporate special features. Examples include foldable aluminum bars that act as pushup bars, parallettes and suspension handles in one, or retractable setups that remove manual strap changes between exercises. They solve specific needs — ultra-portable for travelers or faster transitions for busy athletes — but often cost more and may give up some versatility compared with traditional straps.

Factors to consider when purchasing a suspension trainer

Strap width and material

Width matters for comfort and safety. Tanneberg recommends looking for "at least 2-inch wide straps that are adjustable for length" to ensure durability during intense workouts. Webbing thickness and stitching quality directly impact how long your trainer will last and how confident you'll feel under load.

Adjustment mechanism

The speed at which you can adjust strap length between exercises affects your workout flow and intensity. Cam buckles and push-button systems offer the fastest transitions, while traditional buckles require more manual adjustment. Kong points out that "you can drive progress with a slower tempo, longer time under tension, single-arm or single-leg variations," so seamless adjustments help you maintain that tempo without breaking focus.

Handles and foot cradles

Padded handles reduce hand fatigue during high-rep sets, while secure foot cradles make lower body exercises safer and more effective. Tanneberg specifically says to look for "padded handles and foot cradles or straps" as essential quality markers. Grip texture and ergonomics become crucial during sweaty workouts or when performing unstable movements.

Anchor system

Your anchor determines where you can train. Most trainers include door anchors for home use, but outdoor athletes need systems that work on tree limbs or squat racks. Consider whether you'll need multiple anchor points — some exercises benefit from a wider stance, while travel-focused users need compact, portable anchor solutions.

Weight Capacity

Most quality suspension trainers support 300+ pounds, but body weight is only one factor — you'll want confidence during explosive, jumping or pressing movements. Look for rated capacities that give you headroom beyond your own body weight, especially if you plan to progress to advanced single-limb variations.

Portability

By nature, suspension trainers are "easy to set up, easy to tear down, compact well for storage, are lightweight and can be used most anywhere," says Kong. But some versions are more travel-friendly than others. Pack size and weight matter if you travel frequently or workout in multiple locations. Some trainers also come with convenient storage bags that make packing much easier.

Handle design

Rotating handles reduce wrist strain and feel more natural during pressing movements, while fixed handles offer more stability for beginners. Some systems use aluminum bars or wood instead of padded handles, offering a different grip experience that mimics gymnastics or calisthenics equipment, but may not be ideal for foot exercises.

Equalizer vs. independent straps

Equalizer systems keep both handles at the same length automatically, which is helpful for bilateral exercises where you’re using both arms or legs during the exercise, such as suspended incline pushups or suspended pikes for your core. Independent straps require you to manually match each strap’s length, but offer more flexibility for single leg or arm unilateral training. The straps can also be set to different heights for certain exercises. Look for straps with clear markings that make manual adjustments easier to manage.

Price and starting point

"I recommend starting with a basic model to see how you genuinely like suspension training and then look to add more accessories as you get comfortable and look for more exercises to add to your regimen," says Tanneberg. Quality trainers range from $45 gymnastic rings to $459+ premium systems — match your investment to your commitment level and training goals.

How we chose

To find the best suspension trainers of 2025, I tested nine systems across every price point and design style, from $45 gymnastics rings to $459 retractable models. As a certified personal trainer and CSCS with over a decade of experience in fitness, I focused on what actually matters in real workouts — not just marketing claims about revolutionary designs or premium materials.

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I evaluated each system using a 100-point rubric that covered setup speed, adjustment mechanisms, build quality, handle comfort, versatility, and overall value. I timed how long each took to set up from box to ready-to-use, tested strap adjustments under load to check for slippage and put every system through multi-exercise circuits to assess how they perform during actual training sessions. I examined the webbing thickness, stitching quality at stress points, and whether the handles remained comfortable during high-rep sets or max-effort holds.

Beyond the specs, I tested exercises that reveal a system's real capabilities: rows, push-ups, hamstring curls, pike crunches and single-leg squats. Some systems excelled at upper-body work but struggled with exercises that required foot support. Others prioritized portability over durability. A few introduced genuinely useful innovations that improved workout flow, while others added features that sounded impressive but didn't deliver practical benefits.

To ensure these recommendations reflect more than just my experience, I consulted three experts across personal training, sports medicine and exercise science. Trainer Meagan Kong, strength coach and chiropractor Matt Tanneberg, and exercise physiologist Jim Stoppani provided insights into what makes suspension training effective, the features that matter most for different users and how to evaluate quality and durability. Their expertise helped shape both the testing criteria and final recommendations.

Other products we tested

Bodytorc Functional Trainer

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The Bodytorc employs a modular design, featuring separate handles and foot straps that connect via carabiners, allowing for customization of your setup. The materials feel solid for the $60-70 price range, and the included carrying bag is a nice touch. But the modular design creates friction during actual training. Swapping between exercises means disconnecting and reconnecting pieces, which kills momentum during circuit-style workouts. At this price point, the Thysol Pro Xtreme offers similar quality with a more functional design that doesn’t disrupt your training flow.

Lifeline Jungle Gym XT

The Lifeline works well if you train exclusively on a squat rack — the split anchor design and adjustable width handle setup are specifically designed for this purpose. The straps are quality, and the non-scuff anchor protects your equipment. But at $100, it's overpriced for what you get. The manufacturer doesn't list a weight capacity, which raises concerns about durability under heavy use. For squat rack training, the REP Rings cost less than half as much and provide a 600-pound capacity with Olympic-quality construction. Unless you specifically need the Lifeline's wider stance for certain exercises, better options exist at lower prices.

Moulyan Bodyweight Resistance Training Straps

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We cannot recommend this system. During testing, we found multiple safety concerns: stitching was fraying and coming apart at stress points, the metal adjustment rings slipped loose under body weight and the entire system felt unstable during exercises. The lack of a listed weight capacity is a red flag, and the cheap plastic handles and questionable construction don't inspire confidence. At any price, equipment that shifts or loosens during use poses a risk of injury. Skip this one entirely.

FAQs

What is a suspension trainer, and how does it work?

A suspension trainer utilizes adjustable straps attached to a solid anchor, allowing you to train with your body weight. You make the exercises you perform easier or harder by changing your body’s angle in relation to the anchor — the closer your body is to horizontal, the tougher the exercise becomes. The unstable setup keeps your core working while boosting strength, balance and functional movement across major muscle groups. “Suspension training uses your body weight as resistance, and you adjust intensity by changing your angle to the anchor,” says Kong.

What's the difference between TRX and other brands?

TRX is the original suspension trainer brand and its products typically offer more features, such as equalizer loops, rotating handles and comprehensive app-based workouts. TRX alternatives may employ simpler designs — some with independent straps, similar to gymnastics rings, while others utilize cam buckles instead of proprietary adjustment systems. Prices range from $45 for basic rings to over $459 for premium systems. The core function is the same across brands, but build quality, adjustment speed, included accessories and durability differ significantly based on materials and construction standards.

Can beginners use a suspension trainer safely at home?

Suspension trainers are well-suited for beginners because you can control the difficulty by adjusting your body angle. Tanneberg states that people should make it their goal to be able to control their body weight in all movements before they move on to lifting weights, making suspension training an ideal foundation for building that control. Research confirms suspension training is safe and effective for untrained adults, improving strength and functional performance without adverse effects. Start with more upright positions and progress gradually as you build strength and confidence.

Do I need a door anchor or a ceiling mount to use a suspension trainer?

Most suspension trainers include a door anchor, which works for home use without permanent installation. You can also wrap straps around sturdy tree branches, squat racks, pull-up bars, or playground equipment. Some systems require specific anchors — such as door anchors for the home and longer straps for outdoor use. The key is finding a secure anchor point that can withstand your body weight plus the forces of movement. Quality systems include multiple anchor options, though you may need to purchase additional anchors separately for different training locations.

Are suspension trainers effective for full-body strength training?

Suspension trainers are effective for full-body strength training. Small studies indicate that eight weeks of suspension training may significantly improve physical fitness components including strength, with elderly participants seeing enhanced muscle growth factors and functional abilities. Stoppani notes that suspension trainers can be used to build muscle and strength, like any other resistance training equipment, like resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells, if used with a proper training program that follows the progressive overload principle. Combining a suspension trainer with a weighted vest is a great way to progress over time.

Meet our experts

• Meagan Kong, CPT, certified personal trainer and head of fitness at AlterMe, specializing in functional training and bodyweight exercise programming with expertise in progressive overload and accessible fitness.

• Dr. Matt Tanneberg, D.C., CSCS, with extensive experience helping clients master body weight control and movement quality before progressing to advanced resistance training.

• Dr. Jim Stoppani, Ph.D, exercise science authority with a doctorate in exercise physiology and decades of research studying resistance training adaptations, muscle hypertrophy, and evidence-based program design

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Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.

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