I finally got to take Linda Silich’s TRX class at Studio 89 (Claypit Road, Sag Harbor.) This is not your average TRX class, because Linda is not your average trainer. The class is a lot like Linda: a whole lot of goodness packed into one. From kickboxing to dancing, sprinting, and of course tons of TRX strength-training, Linda’s regulars know that anything and everything is fair game.

We warmed up with some cardio and then stretched using the TRX bands. TRX allows for a unique workout, conventional strength-training in an unconventional way. We went through the standard strength-training moves to target different muscle groups; biceps, triceps, squats, etc. The difference with TRX is that you’re really creating more resistance by loading the bands with your own body weight.

Linda pushed us through three levels of intensity for each move, so that we could challenge ourselves and modify accordingly. I’ve noticed with TRX, it doesn’t feel like it gets progressively harder, it’s almost more of an instant discomfort that tells you you’re doing it right. Seems backwards, but it’s effective, that’s for sure. When we pushed into the tougher modifications, my glutes or triceps instantly felt the work. And then we pushed and pushed. And pushed. Linda does the moves right alongside you, keeping an upbeat demeanor and a smile throughout the class that made me want to stay at her level.

You’ll never be bored training with Linda. She brings enough energy for the whole class to feed off of. She’s friendly, upbeat, fast-paced, and funny. Yes, you’ll laugh, but her class is no joke. Did I mention that this particular TRX class included kickboxing, running, and sprinting? Seriously, at one point, we ran on the outdoor track behind Studio 89 and sprinted the last side of the track. Told you this class is non-conventional! I asked Linda how she runs through class with such a variety of ‘tricks’ up her sleeve. Depending on the class and the music, she’ll just feel something and go with it. Sometimes, she’s very musically driven and lets the beat govern the movement, other times, she’ll feed off of the class’ energy and modifications. She clearly has been doing this long enough that it’s second nature.

The music is always catchy, Linda’s vast taste is a pretty perfect compliment to her teaching style – anything goes if it gets the body moving. Linda’s the only trainer that will get Paddle Diva, Gina, off her SUP board…and that, my friends, is no easy task!

Ayayay, the last TRX segment was extreme. I have a feeling this is what the inventors of TRX were envisioning: sheer agony. We ended the class on the mat, feet suspended by TRX bands, doing plank exercises and push-ups. Ok, this is when I finally broke an intense sweat and actually wanted to shed a tear. I felt pretty capable throughout class until this last point, when my core and shoulders began to scream. Best way to whittle your middle? Get those TRX bands around your ankles, get down in plank and just hang out. Dare I say that this one exercise alone may make ‘typical’ planks and push-ups seem…easy? Cringe. Thankfully, the song ended and we moved on to stretching. I survived another one, phew.

On a personal note, Linda goes above and beyond in all walks of life. From running a business, (Groundworks Landscaping) to being a fabulous mom, teaching fitness classes, and being super involved in the community, Linda deserves a shout-out for being a huge inspiration!

One Healthy Breakdown: Linda is truly one-of-a-kind. Take a class with her and you’ll be instantly hooked on Linda and TRX!