If you're looking for an alternative to a gym membership and need motivation to get started on an exercise program, a 90-day workout plan may be a good option. These programs can be done on your own time and often in your home. Committing to a program for 90 days also helps you begin to form a habit of exercise so that it becomes a part of your lifestyle. If you have health issues or are a senior citizen, consult your doctor before starting a fitness training program.
Beach Body's P90X
P90X claims that in 90 days you will get fit and have the body you've always wanted. The program provides 12 workout CDs, including the following workouts: Chest and back; stretch; plyometrics; core; chest, shoulders, and triceps; back and biceps; yoga; abs; kenpo; cardio; legs and back; and shoulders and arms. You can do the workouts at home or with a group; no gym access is needed. Each workout is approximately one hour, and the entire program can be done with a set of dumbbells or resistance bands and a pull-up bar.
Max Workouts by Shin Ohtake
This program promises to get you super lean and defined with little time working out per day. Each workout is no longer than 30 minutes and uses shorter, higher-intensity training. The focus is on strength, cardio, functional and interval and circuit-training exercises. This program can be done at the gym or at home and has similar equipment needs as P90X: a barbell or dumbbells, your own body weight and a pull-up bar. For the interval cardio portion of the program, you can run outside or use a treadmill, indoor bike, rower, or any cardio machine of your choice. Another difference is, for Max Workouts' interval cardio portion you're encouraged to run outside, use a treadmill, indoor bike, row or other cardio machines.
Good Housekeeping 90-Day Plan
For an alternative to plans you have to buy. try a free running plan or Jim Karas' free plan from Good Housekeeping. It's simple, with easy-to-follow directions and guidelines for exercises needed. The program is completely self-motivated and does not provide videos, which may be a drawback for some. Karas provides goals for each month for the pounds expected to lose. Workouts become more intense as the program progresses.
Sticking With Your Plan
Some quick tips for sticking to your plan: Find a friend to do it with; keep a journal; write a blog chronicling your journey; and find a consistent time to do it every day.
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