P90X: Does This Classic Home Workout Series Still Hold Up?
Before I dive into my review I thought it would be good to explain how I plan on breaking down my review of the P90X program. I used P90X for several years and have TONS of thoughts on the program so instead of writing one giant, manifesto I will break up my review of the program by reviewing each workout within the 90 day program.
In this post I want to start with some overall thoughts on the program that might help you decide if this is something that you might want to consider. Then in the following posts I’ll give a breakdown/review of the various individual workouts under the program, then in the final post I will provide some closing thoughts and give you my personal ranking of favorite to least favorite (Spoiler:least favorite it’s Kempo-X) workouts in this program.
P90X: High-level overview
Let me start with a disclosure of my bias: I Love P90X. I had amazing P90X Results, it literally changed my gut into a six pack and got me hooked on at home fitness and as a result have not spent money on a gym membership in 7 years.
That being said, P90X (like any fitness program) is not a good fit for everyone. It depends greatly on 3 primary factors: Your fitness experience & goals, Your ability to stay self-motivated and The suitability of your home space to workout
Your fitness experience & Goals
First thing to know, about P90X is that its subtitle is “extreme home fitness” and extreme is most definitely the best word to describe P90X. It is a 6–7 day a week program with workouts that are at a relentless pace and will push you to your limits. This was great for me because I had 7–8 years of workout experience and sports training under my belt when I Started P90X.
If you are a beginner and/or simply looking to improve your health
P90X is not for you, for 2 reasons:
- P90X is overkill for you goals and;
- The extreme nature of the program can be dangerous for beginners.
You are better off to start with simple workouts that focus on fundamentals.
If you are an intermediate/Advanced level fitness and you want to take “a leap” in your fitness goals
P90X may be right for you. If you have the discipline and self-motivation to follow P90X to the letter, you will see extreme results. Self-motivation is key, because some of these workouts will kick your ass and you will want to quit, if you can keep your self accountable and if you have a decent amount of space to workout with at home, then you may want to give P90X a try.
All of the exercises and information that is presented in this article is intended for general information/entertainment purposes only and shall not constitute or replace any medical or professional health care, diets or medical advice. Not all exercises will be performed with perfect/correct form. Make sure you consult with your doctor before engaging in any physical activity.
