P90X is a fitness program that was founded by Beachbody fitness guru and trainer, Tony Horton. This 12-disc, in-home fitness program claims users will see results in just 90 days. The program is based on variety in the routine. Your body is highly adaptable and when you go into the gym day after day and perform the same workout, it's going to get used to it, explains Bodybuilding.com. This program combines weight lifting, plyometrics, yoga, Pilates and much more.
Weeks 1, 2 and 3
P90X alternates between strength training and cardio exercises throughout the week. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, you work out your upper body muscles such as your chest, arms and shoulders. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, you take a break from resistance training with various cardio routines like Plyometrics X and Kenpo X. Sunday is reserved as a day of rest or to complete the Stretching X routine. This weekly regimen is repeated weeks one through three.
Week 4
Week 4 is a recovery week that will have you focusing more on balance strength with Yoga X and lighter cardiovascular exercise with Cardio X. This is a vital portion of the routine as it allows your muscles to recover from the three weeks of pounding you have been giving them.
Weeks 5 through 16
The second and third months are a repeat of month one. The program is laid out strategically to work certain muscles while others rest. It's best to follow the recommended workout plan for 90 days. The P90X program asserts that if you can stick with this program for 16 weeks then you will definitely see the guaranteed results.
Equipment Required
At first, it's good to know what equipment is required for the P90X program. Many of the DVDs include exercises that require dumbbells. The wider the range of weight you have at your disposal, the better. If you have a complete rack of dumbbells or just a few pairs, you can make it work. P90X is also heavy on pull-ups. Beachbody offers a pull-up bar that mounts in a doorway. For a more cost-efficient option, a resistance band might make a suitable replacement. Every exercise has a resistance band version, which might be a good place to start if you're a beginner.
Suitability
As advertised, P90X is an intense home-exercise program that can produce results, but only for those who are somewhat fit already and can maintain a heavy training schedule and avoid injury, according to the American Council on Exercise. P90X is extreme fitness and should not be used by someone who cannot complete the fitness test that comes with the program. If you have been an avid exerciser for six to 12 months, however, then P90X will inject your usual routine with plenty of variety and possibly offer a path to a new you in just 90 days.
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