P90X is an intense fitness program. The focus of the program is to get you as lean as possible. Because the program covers 90 days with only 12 of those days having no workout whatsoever, you should already be in decent shape before beginning the program. If you cannot complete a pullup or pushup, P90X will be too intense for you, but you do have ways to slowly work your way up toward the P90X program. Consult your physician before attempting a new exercise regimen.
P90X Overview
The P90X program consists of 13 weeks of workouts with the routines changing fairly often throughout the program to encourage muscle growth. You will need dumbbells, a yoga mat and a chinup bar to perform the exercises in the program. In addition to the workouts, you have to follow a strict diet.
Light P90X
If this is your first time doing P90X, you can choose to replace the chinup bar and dumbbells with resistance bands. This will make the exercises easier, yet still get you acquainted with the exercises. You should also try to stick to the diet as much as possible to help with weight loss. Once you have completed the P90X program with the resistance bands, you can repeat it again using dumbbells and a chinup bar for even more muscle growth and weight loss.
P90X Lean
An easier version of the P90X program is known as "P90X Lean." Tony Horton, inventor of the P90X program, describes the program in the P90X instructional booklet as putting a heavier focus on cardio. You will still perform a few of the weight-training routines, but with an emphasis on the cardiovascular routines. This can slowly ease you into the P90X program while building your strength and endurance. Once you have completed the "P90X Lean" program, you can move onto the traditional P90X program.
Attempting P90X
If you feel that you are in shape and want to simply begin doing P90X without any previous exercise experience, you will see the most gains, but this is the most difficult route. Horton recommends completing the max rep approach. Attempt the program, but do not try to complete the recommended amount of repetitions for each exercise. Instead, only do as many as you can. This will increase your strength and reduce the risk of injury. Eventually, after three to four weeks, you should be able to complete the recommended amount of repetitions.
References
- "P90X Extreme Home Fitness: Fitness Guide"; BeachBody; 2009
- "P90X Workout Sheet"; BeachBody; 2009
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