Hello everybody and thank you for reading. I begun a new lifestile doing exercises at home. This way I can exercise daily and comfortably; rather than loosing time and money into a gym subscription. I feel significantly better already. Now, I'm thinking about getting one of those TRX devices. Apart that I can't understand well the differences between models (professional, suspension trainer and Suspension Trainer Tactical) but this could be a topic for another thread... well back on topic I'd love to know if I with the TRX I can get a in place cardio workout that is both effective and easy on joints (if it could ALSO be fun I would be sold). Right now I'm jumping rope, and I'm loving it. Nevertheless, I'd love to have an alternative both to add variety and most important to have a cardio exercise really easy on my knees and the back; rope skipping is not that bad but it HAS impact nevertheless I use two mats and cross country shoes. Of course a cross-training machine would be the perfect solution; but that's bulky and expensive. So I was wondering about this TRX tool; perhaps there's something effective that I can do with it. I want my heart to PUMP THE HELL UP, be aware :-) Thank you so much for any informations!

differences between models: Color scheme, programs included and the ftk gets a free door anchor.

When using proper form jump rope shouldn't cause much more impact on the knees than walking. What styles of jumps do you do?

 Cardio with the trx: sure. You take your favorite exercises on the trx and go to an easier progression then perform them with speed and minimal rest.

First off, congrats on making the comittment to a fit life!  As for the model differences, there really isn't any.  The difference is in the DVD and/or accessories that come with each model.  Take a look at the different DVDs on the products page to get a better idea of which one will suit your needs (and you can always order more individually to change it up).  Depending on what your exercise room setup is, I would recommend picking a model that includes the door anchor or purchase the door anchor seperately.  I prefer using an overhead anchor whenever possible, but the door anchor really does allow for "fitness anywhere" so I'd go ahead and get it just in case (great for travel too).

In response to the cardio question, the answer is "YES."  You will absolutely be able to reap cardio benefits from the TRX, and can easily eliminate/replace any exercises that cause joint discomfort.  Most, if not all, exercises IMO could be considered "low-impact" or joint friendly.  There are several threads on the forum that discuss the different ways to increase the metabolic effect, etc.  Browse through the forum and I think you'll get a better idea of how this can meet your specific goals. 

I've really enjoyed the TRX; it is an excellent workout that will increase your flexibility, strength, range of motion, and cardiovascular and muscular endurance.  Oh, and it IS fun.  :-)  Good luck.   

Thanks so much to both. About my jumping style, I mostly jump with both feet, parallel (probably the most basic jump) and with some little variations (crossing hands and the like). The truth is, that I'm still a beginner so while I'm enjoying so much I probably jump way higher than I should; I can feel the stress expecially on the back in the end. I'll probably go with the "25 minutes" DVD; being that fast it will probably be good for the cardiovascular system too. Ciao!

To jump properly on the basic bounce you want your feet should never be more than an inch off the ground. A true master will jump only slightly higher than the diameter of the rope's cord. You pretty much want it so that if you are being videoed you don't look like you even leave the ground.

You might also feel better my alternating the foot movements and doing the alternate foot step. That is kinda like jogging on the spot, you land one foot at a time. That takes some of the strain off since you are no longer performing the one movement constantly.

A good resource for jump rope is buddy lee's book and dvd: http://buddyleejumpropes.com/

Fitness anywhere are bringing out a Buddy Lee jump rope and trx dvd soon as well.

The collaboration with buddy lee sounds interesting. What should we expect? And again about differences in model. The "military" model description says that it is "Built to exceed military specifications. Includes integrated foot cradles for ground-based training, industrial-grade grips[..]" That sounds like that model is stronger than the others; while really the colour is the only difference? I just want to be sure before investing the bucks. Thanks again.

I have both, and other than the colors there is no visible difference. I don't think there are any strength differences, but I don't really know.

I'm not sure what it will be, I'm eagerly awaiting it, but I expect something fast pased and pretty brutal.

Hello Brandon Bittorf here in Santa Barbara Ca, I know you are in search of cardio with your TRX, but may I suggest a great new program that I have introduced into my studio. Spinning/TRX, thats right, a great non impact cardio workout and onto the TRX for another 40' workout. All of my workouts are for all fitness levels, remember get the form down and stay focused and the miracle will happen. Even my clients that I train online attend a local spinning class, stretch and then they go outside and hit the TRX workout!