Military Fitness: Which sling trainer is suitable?

Can you also train effectively with inexpensive sling trainers? This is the question Thorsten from "Military Fitness" is asking, and we at SPARTANAT are here to present his tips on this good training device:Today I will present to you some differences between the cheap discount sling trainers (image above: Crane Slingtrainer from Aldi/Hofer, Price: €13 in DE/€15 in AT) and the rather expensive TRX or Vario Slings etc. (image below: Force Kit from TRX, Price: €150-€350)I have trained on six different models myself. It all started with the original TRX. At some point, I ordered a cheap device from China to see where the differences are. Meanwhile, there are models in all price categories.The most important thing is to buy a device that suits your needs. Because not all sling trainers are the same.The expensive models are flawless. They have excellent quality. The seams are stable, the handles are made of sturdy material that doesn't break after four uses. The adjustment options are great. But even among those, there are differences in designs. (Above image: TRX setup is a bit more complex than ALDI device; Material is better.)

I would not recommend the cheap Chinese device to anyone. Not only because of the quality, but more importantly, you should not support the spread of replicas. It's not worth it anymore, as there are other affordable products on the market. These training devices usually have cheap seams that tear very quickly, which can be not only dangerous but also not suitable for such activities. The plastic handles burst quickly, which can also be dangerous for the trainee.Currently, I am testing a device from the discount store: The price and the construction of the device are good, and the setup of the device meets my requirements. That means the slings are long enough to comfortably and easily fit your feet (with shoes) in them. Especially for tall athletes, this is an important point. Furthermore, you can quickly and easily adjust the handle in this sling, so you don't have to do much "fumbling" to train a different exercise. (Above image: Comparison of buckles. Crane/ALDI is a bit simpler, but it works.)

Some devices have four slings at the same time (two for the handles and two for the feet). That's annoying. Because you always have to unhook or hang up two slings. Or they dangle around and interfere.Other devices have a loop sewn under the handle. So 2 in 1. Not too bad. But many sewn loops are too short. With some, you have to take off your shoes to get in. (e.g. Govital or T Pro, etc.). That makes no sense and is annoying, as you cannot perform every exercise optimally.

Other components: The expensive devices usually have a roller through which the load-bearing rope runs. This greatly complicates many exercises, which is good because this way you can also greatly increase exercises.
You can also block this roller to train basic exercises again.Door anchor: Almost all models have the door anchor. This is good if you have limited space at home. The function is almost always the same. However, training at the door is very limited. (Front is the ALDI anchor, the TRX Kit offers an extension possibility for the sling trainer, a door anchor, and a fastening option for tree/beam). Training tips, posters, DVDs: Some devices also come with training tips. Above: the ALDI training guide in front, the TRX version with full training instructions in the back. TRX also has an app for it.
But I also recommend a good book: "Military Fitness." 🙂

CONCLUSION: If money is not an issue, you should buy a TRX Force Kit or TRX Pro Suspension. Advantage: Good workmanship, many additional parts. Disadvantage: Foot loops are a bit too small. Price: €250-€340.

For those looking for an entry-level device, I recommend the Lidl (DE) or Hofer (AT) device (Crivit Slingtrainer)
Advantage: Large loops, adjustable handles, Disadvantage: no roller, only a small area for
"sliding back and forth." Price: only €15.

Important! The sling trainer should have good workmanship and large foot loops. Intensity and difficulty level can be increased with a variety of different exercises.

This is my personal opinion. If you have any questions or if I have forgotten something, simply write a few comments.

Regards, Torsten

HERE is the link to Military Fitness on Facebook