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TRX Hamstring Runner

Intermediate
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A supine, alternating leg exercise using suspension straps that targets hamstrings, glutes, and core to build posterior chain strength and single-leg stability; ideal for runners improving endurance and power.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Hamstrings, Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Obliques, Lower Back

Accessory Muscles

Calves

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Stability
Conditioning

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Hamstrings

9/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus

Glutes

8/10

Glute Max, Glute Medius

Hip Flexors

7/10

Iliopsoas

Abs

6/10

Rectus Abdominis

Obliques

5/10

External Obliques

Lower Back

4/10

Erector Spinae

Calves

2/10

Gastrocnemius

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-30 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust TRX straps to mid-calf length and secure anchor. Lie supine with heels in foot cradles, arms by sides, palms down.

  1. Engage core and glutes to lift hips into bridge position, forming straight line from shoulders to heels.
  2. Pull one knee toward chest by flexing hamstring, extending other leg straight.
  3. Alternate legs by extending pulled leg and pulling opposite knee in, simulating running motion.
  4. Keep hips elevated and stable throughout.
  5. Brace core to prevent sagging.
  6. Continue alternating for reps or time.
  7. Lower hips slowly to floor.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Hips high and level
  • Drive through heels
  • Core tight, no sag
  • Alternate smoothly
  • Contract hamstrings hard
  • Eyes forward, neck neutral

Breathing

Inhale during leg extension, exhale during knee pull and contraction.

Tempo

2-0-2

Range of Motion

Knee pulls to hip height with hips fully extended; full leg extension without dropping hips.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure secure anchor point supporting body weight
  • Adjust straps evenly for balance
  • Avoid if acute lower back pain
  • Stop if discomfort in hips or back
  • Use controlled speed to prevent strain
  • Consult professional with injuries

Spotting

Not required; self-supported bodyweight exercise. Use partner for form check if beginner.

Common Mistakes

  • Hips dropping or sagging
  • Using momentum instead of control
  • Arching lower back
  • Uneven strap adjustment
  • Incomplete hamstring contraction
  • Poor core engagement

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Hip flexor strain
  • Recent hamstring tear

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate hip extension
  • Ankle dorsiflexion for stability

Build Up First

  • Master basic hip bridge
  • Familiar with TRX setup
  • Core stability competency

Also known as

Suspension Hamstring Runner, TRX Runner Curl

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