TRX Hamstring Curl

TRX Hamstring Curl trains the hamstrings by bending the knee against resistance.

Primary muscle
Upper Legs

Primary musclesHamstrings

Secondary musclesGastrocnemius, Gluteus maximus, Sartorius

Equipment
TRX
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How to perform TRX Hamstring Curl

Follow the sequence in order, paying attention to the starting position, movement path, and finish described in each step.

  1. For TRX Hamstring Curl, lie on the back with both heels secure in the TRX cradles, knees straight, and pelvis level.

  2. Brace the pelvis and keep the hips level before bending the knees.

  3. Bend the knees to draw the heels toward the hips without lifting or twisting the hips.

  4. Pause in the shortest controlled position of the hamstrings.

  5. Extend the knees slowly, stopping before the load pulls the body out of alignment.

Common TRX Hamstring Curl mistakes

Hips lifting or twisting

Keep the hips still before bending the knees, and stop when they lift or turn.

Resistance poorly positioned

Centre both heels in the foot cradles and keep the straps even before curling.

Shortening the extension

Return to a controlled long-hamstring position without letting the load pull the knees abruptly straight.

Using momentum

Curl smoothly and pause rather than bouncing through the shortest position.

When to modify or choose another exercise

  • Hips lifting or twisting: Keep the hips still before bending the knees, and stop when they lift or turn.
  • Shortening the extension: Return to a controlled long-hamstring position without letting the load pull the knees abruptly straight.
  • Stop when the exercise produces sharp, catching, radiating, or increasing joint pain rather than the expected muscular effort.
  • Alternative Supported TRX Hamstring Curl: Hold a stable support or use an easier setup while learning the movement.

How to use TRX Hamstring Curl in a training program

01

Where it fits in a session

Place TRX Hamstring Curl after the main lower-body lifts so hamstring fatigue does not reduce hinge or sprint mechanics.

02

How often to use it

Use one to three times per week and count it alongside Romanian deadlifts and other hamstring work.

Starting rep ranges by goal

GoalSetsReps or timeRestEffort and execution
Strength accessory2–46–1075–150 secLeave 2–3 controlled reps in reserve
Muscle growth2–48–1560–120 secUsually 1–3 clean reps in reserve

Pairing and sequencing

  • Use TRX Hamstring Curl after Barbell Back Squats or Leg Press to add direct hamstring work.
  • Pair it with Leg Extensions or Seated Calf Raises when knee position remains controlled.

Regressions and progressions for TRX Hamstring Curl

Start with an easier option

Supported TRX Hamstring Curl

Hold a stable support or use an easier setup while learning the movement.

Reduced-range TRX Hamstring Curl

Use a shorter pain-free range and expand it only as control improves.

Progress when form is repeatable

Tempo TRX Hamstring Curl

Slow the lowering phase without changing the start, finish, or joint alignment.

Paused TRX Hamstring Curl

Add a brief pause at the hardest controlled position before increasing load.

References
  1. American Council on ExerciseACE Exercise Library
  2. Mayo ClinicWeight Training: Do's and Don'ts of Proper Technique
  3. American College of Sports MedicineACSM Resistance Training Guidelines Update
  4. NHSHow to improve your strength and flexibility
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