Hate using the hotel gym but still want a killer full-body workout on the road? You’re not alone. This week in Coach’s Corner, we’re talking about a travel-friendly, trans-friendly solution that helped me stay fit through a global lockdown—and can absolutely help you train smarter (and safer) from your hotel room. No sketchy treadmills required.
This Week’s Question:
Dear Coach,
I travel a lot for work and usually stay in hotels a few nights a week. I want to stay active and keep working on my strength and fitness goals, but I hate hotel gyms. They’re either gross, packed with bros, or just have ancient equipment that smells like a high school locker room. I need a solution that lets me work out in my hotel room. Is that even possible?
— Travelin’ and Tired of Dumbbells
Dear Travelin’,
Oh, I feel this one.
Let me take you back to 2020. I was living in a 500-square-foot apartment in Virginia, prepping for my first bodybuilding competition. My macros were locked in. My workouts were dialed. I was focused… until COVID hit and every gym in the country slammed its doors.
Like a lot of us, I panicked. I didn’t have room for a home gym. I didn’t even own dumbbells. But I wasn’t ready to give up on my goals. So I pivoted—and that’s when I discovered my secret weapon: TRX Suspension Training.
What Is TRX?
TRX stands for “Total Resistance eXercise.” It’s a suspension training system that uses your own body weight and gravity to create resistance. Think of it like yoga straps meets resistance bands—but way cooler and far more versatile.
The kit includes two adjustable straps with handles that anchor to a door, tree, or any sturdy overhead structure. It weighs less than 2 pounds and fits into a small pouch—aka it’s perfect to throw in your carry-on or overnight bag. You can literally do a full-body workout anywhere, including your hotel room.
Bonus: It’s silent, so no worrying about angry neighbors below you when you’re on the second floor.
Why Trans Women Love It
TRX is perfect for anyone, but as a transgender woman, I found it incredibly affirming and safe, especially during those early days of HRT when my body felt different and more prone to joint fatigue.
- Low-impact, high reward
- Adapts to any strength level
- No need to “compete” with dudes in the weight room
- Works with your body, not against it
- Feels empowering, not intimidating
Plus, no one’s watching you when you’re working out in your own space. You can move your body, listen to music, and feel good in your skin—without second-guessing your safety.
TRX: Your Travel-Safe Workout Buddy
Whether you’re in a hotel, Airbnb, or guest bedroom, all you need is a door with a lock. Set-up takes less than a minute. You just:
- Hook the TRX anchor over the top of the door.
- Shut the door (make sure it locks!).
- Adjust the straps to your desired length.
- Boom—instant gym.
25-Minute Full-Body Hotel Room TRX Workout
Warm-Up (3 min)
Jumping jacks (or march in place) – 1 min
Arm circles – 1 min
Bodyweight squats – 1 min
Workout (Perform each exercise for 45 seconds, then rest for 15 seconds. Do 2–3 rounds depending on time.)
- TRX Rows: Back & biceps
Lean back holding handles, and pull chest toward hands. - TRX Squats: Legs & glutes
Use straps for balance and go deep. - TRX Chest Press: Chest & triceps
Face away from anchor, lean forward, press like a push-up. - TRX Plank: Core
Feet in straps, forearms on floor. Hold steady. - TRX Hamstring Curl: Hamstrings & glutes
Lie on your back, heels in straps, curl legs toward hips. - TRX Y Fly: Shoulders & upper back
Pull body up while making a “Y” shape with arms. - TRX Side Lunge: Inner thighs & balance
One leg stays straight, other bends into a lunge.
Cool-Down (3–5 min)
Gentle forward fold
Shoulder stretch using the straps
Deep breathing in child’s pose (or seated if floor space is tight)
Coach’s Tip
- Hydrate: Travel dehydrates you, and so does working out. Double up on water.
- Pack Smart: Keep your TRX in your carry-on. You’ll never have to wonder if your hotel has decent equipment again.
- Playlist Power: Make a travel playlist that hypes you up. This is your time.
- Track It: Use the TRX app or a journal to log your reps. Seeing progress is motivating—even in hotel pajamas.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need a gym to stay strong. You need commitment, creativity, and tools that meet you where you are. TRX gave me control when the world felt out of control—and now, it’s my go-to when I’m on the road.
You’ve got this. You’re not lazy for skipping the gym. You’re smart for finding a better way.
Train well, travel light, and take up space—wherever you go.
Want to try TRX for yourself? Check out this top-rated kit on Amazon (affiliate link).
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Disclaimer for Coach’s Corner: Coach’s Corner is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, fitness, or nutritional advice. While Coach Bricki provides guidance based on personal experience as a fitness professional and transgender woman, all readers are encouraged to consult a licensed health professional before making significant changes to their health or exercise routines.
