P90X, short for Power 90-Day Extreme, is a 12-DVD workout program divided into six segments. Six days per week for 90 days, you rotate through plyometrics, yoga, weight training, kenpo, ab exercises and stretching with the aim of creating muscle confusion for optimal strength gains and fat loss. According to "Fitness Magazine," the program is not appropriate for beginner exercisers, and the style of exercising may not be for everyone.
Power 90
If you're just getting started with exercise and are not quite ready to take on P90X, the precursor, called Power 90, offers a lower intensity 90-day program. Instead of a completely different workout every day, Power 90 alternates between strength training with dumbbells or a resistance band and a cardio session with an ab routine tacked on. The simple 30-minute workouts with minimal equipment and basic eating plan make Power 90 a solid choice for new exercisers without a ton of time to spare. If you crave variety, the Power 90 program may not be a good fit for you.
Get Ripped & Chiseled with Jari Love
For advanced exercisers who simply need a change of pace from the P90X, try out the "Get Ripped & Chiseled with Jari Love" DVD, suggests "Fitness Magazine." The 60-minute workout program can burn up to 450 calories per session using your body and a pair of dumbbells. The quick sequence of strength moves with few breaks gets your heart pumping as you build muscle.
Body For Life
If DVD workouts don't suit you, the 12-week Body for Life program gives you the freedom to exercise at home or the gym on your own terms. Body for Life aims to transform your body over the course of the program through high-intensity interval training, pyramid super-set weight training and an easy-to-follow diet plan. The website is free to use, and participants are encouraged to register for the Body for Life Challenge, a transformation competition for cash prizes. If you want the structure and guidance of a fitness program with the ability to work out at the gym, give Body for Life a try.
Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred
Jillian Michaels, made famous as a trainer on "The Biggest Loser," guides you through three 20-minute workouts ranging in intensity level from beginner to advanced. The short, intense circuit-style workouts include a warm-up, strength training, cardio and ab exercises. In addition to the convenience factor, Jillian offers several variations to the exercises in the program to accommodate a wide range of fitness levels and abilities.
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