The P90X workouts are approximately 1hr (1 DVD) each day, 6 days a week, with the 7th day being a day or rest or optionally X Stretch. Please see the breakdown below. Feel free to preview the video descriptions of each workout on the P90X product page here:
P90X Extreme Home Fitness System
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/p90x.php
P90X CLASSIC PHASE 1:
During this phase, your focus should be on mastering each exercise. Concentrate less on the amount of weight but instead try to reach your rep goals, while maintaing good form!
P90X CLASSIC PHASE 2:
If your goal is to bulk up now is the time to “Bring It” Start upping the weight so that you max out on 8-10 reps. If your aim is to develop lean muscle be sure to use enough weight so that you max out at 12-15 reps. Keep in mind that your body only builds muscle when you’re at rest. So be sure to get at least 7 hours of sleep and consider slipping a few scoops of P90X Recovery Formula into your water bottle!
P90X CLASSIC PHASE 3:
This phase of P90X classic is all about “Extreme Muscle Confusion” and it’s time to go all out! No holding back. Push yourself to the limit each and every day. By the time you hit the last week you should be in the absolute best shape of your life, this is the final stretch make it worth it!
Mar 17, 2010 @ 11:14:34
I am 29 years old and would like to loose 16 lbs. I would love to loose the weight within 3 months. For me to achieve my goals, would you recommend doing the classic or lean version of P90X? Also I own an elliptical, and would like to incorporate it in my routine instead of the day of stretch. What do you think?
Mar 18, 2010 @ 13:50:04
Hi Alicia,
16 pounds is a reasonable goat that you can certainly reach with this program. If weight loss is you main goal, go with the lean approach. Extra cardio is often added to the P90X workouts. Add it where you feel you have the extra energy to do more.
-Mike
Mar 18, 2010 @ 13:54:53
Hello Jay,
you can add muscle weight with this program, but how much is hard to say. Classic would be the approach you would be best off with if you want to add mass. Doubles is actually more for those who would like to either improve performance (cardiovascular wise) or for those who want to lose more weight. You can always do other activities along side of P90X, but I can’t really say what your results will be.
-Mike
Mar 26, 2010 @ 22:02:13
I’ve just completed Day 22 of the workouts and have already noticed a difference in my body and overall fitness level. But, I haven’t been following the diet plan and I haven’t seen much weight loss. I’m 23 years old, 5’6″ and 143lbs. I want to start following the diet to see my weight decrease, but don’t know where to start. I think I need to start with the fat shredder plan, but I’d prefer not to have to go back to Day 1 with the workouts. Would it be effective to begin the fat shredder diet plan while continuing my workouts in week 4?
Hi Courtney,
I would start with the fat shredder phase even if you are in week 4, yes. The diet will really make a difference.
-Mike
Mar 29, 2010 @ 11:31:03
Hi Courtney,
No need to start on Day 1 of the workouts. Usually at the end of the first 30 days you would move into Phase 2 of the nutrition plan “Energy Booster” but you can give Phase 1 a try. If you start to feel really hungry during the day doing fat shredder, listen to your body. You may need the more balanced diet of Phase 2 to support your activity level going into phase 2 of the workout program.
Good luck!
Mar 31, 2010 @ 14:10:59
I have just completed Phase 1 Lean. I would like to see more dramatic results, so I am considering starting Phase 2 in Classic rather than Lean. I am not interested, nor does my schedule permit, Doubles. Can I start following Classic in Phase 2, or do I need to start over with Phase 1 Classic?
Hello Robyn,
if you are going to switch to Classic, I would go back to phase 1. Phase 2 of the Classic approach is different from phase 1 so you will be missing out on that. An extra phase might give you better results at the end anyway
Mike
Mar 31, 2010 @ 14:33:01
My husband and I purchased the p90x and want to do it together. He wants to gain muscle and I want to lose weight probably about 30lbs of pregnancy weight from a year ago. We can’t decide if we should to the classic or the lean approach. Which one would you reccommend we do in order to fit both our needs since we will be doing it at the same time together. Thanks!
Hi Tera,
if you want to work out together everyday, I would go with the classic approach. Obviously this approach would be better for you husband for the purposes of building muscle, but you can also use this approach to lose weight too. Stick to lighter weights and do 12-15 reps. Your husband should use heavier weights and do about 8-10 reps if he want size in terms of muscle. Also, for the chin-up exercises, it would be better for you husband to use the bar, and better for you to use the resistance bands with the door attachment. That way you wont get as much resistance and will be able to do more reps which will lean you out instead of bulking you back up. Or, have your husband spot you do you can do 15-20 chin-ups.
Mike
Apr 04, 2010 @ 06:50:35
Mike/Staff,
I had a baby,via C-section, 4 months ago and now I am looking at loosing the rest of my baby weight. I started phase 1 of the classic on Thursday so today I would be on day 3. I really don’t want to “bulk” up but more tone it up and slim down. I am 5′ 6″ and currently weigh in at 163, size 10/12 and I really want to et back into my size 6′s!! Should I do the lean workout instead?? My husband will be starting the classic but he wants to “bulk” up. If I am better off starting the lean….. Should i just do day 3 of the lean today or should I start all over? If I start all over should I take a rest day?? Or will the classic work for my weight loss goals without me making myself “bulky”? I don’t wanna be really buff….. Just want some slight definition. Please help & thanks in advance for your advice. I most appreciate it!! Oh and Happy Easter
Apr 04, 2010 @ 06:58:47
Oh Mike/staff,
I just posted but I forgot to mention that with my weight loss I am currently unable to diet. I am breastfeeding my son and do not want to take away his nutrition to get back in my skinny jeans. So please keep that in mind when recommending which workout will be better for myself; classic or lean.
Hello Amanda,
you can still do the classic approach. It’s completely understandable if you can’t follow the diet exactly. In your case, I would try to take a look at the portions approach. You can pick and choose what you eat, but you will end up making better choices that will probably be better for you baby. For example, whole wheat pasta and grains rather than white and lean meats. Of course, do what’s best for you and your baby, but if you can try and do that while eating healthier, you will lose weight much easier.
-Mike
Apr 19, 2010 @ 14:09:26
I am thinking of purchasing the p90x program. I am a little confused on the classic and lean and doubles. Are they all the same DVDs except different reps and weights. I want to tone up and lose my baby weight. Ive had 3 kids and have been working out for about a year but have hit a plateau. This sounds like the right thing for me. just not sure on wether or not to do the classic or the lean. My husband is also going to be doing it with me. He wants to bulk up bigtime. Can we do the videos at the same time. Also what equipment do we need.. Just some free weights and a chin up bar.
Thanks again
Raelyn
Yes, they are all contained within the same program. All the same DVD’s, they are just arranged a little differently to give you different results.
Free weights and a chin-up bar would be all you need. A yoga mat would be handy too.
Here is what I told Tera. She had the same question:
if you want to work out together everyday, I would go with the classic approach. Obviously this approach would be better for you husband for the purposes of building muscle, but you can also use this approach to lose weight too. Stick to lighter weights and do 12-15 reps. Your husband should use heavier weights and do about 8-10 reps if he want size in terms of muscle. Also, for the chin-up exercises, it would be better for you husband to use the bar, and better for you to use the resistance bands with the door attachment. That way you wont get as much resistance and will be able to do more reps which will lean you out instead of bulking you back up. Or, if you don’t have bands and the door kit, have your husband spot you do you can do 15-20 chin-ups.
Good luck!
-Mike
Apr 20, 2010 @ 20:35:12
Is it safe to do the lean p90x workout during 1st trimester of pregnancy? I started the workout a couple of weeks ago and just didn’t know if it is still safe to do or to do it in modification.
Hello Jamie,
I would lean towards saying no, but consulting a doctor would be a good idea. This workout might to too intense for pregnancy.
-Mike
Apr 30, 2010 @ 08:49:06
I am 5’8″ tall and weigh 192 pounds. I have been using P90X for one week. I have lost 5.8 pounds in that week. I started at 197.8. I started out using the classic version. Then I realized I had a choice to go with the lean version. I want to lose a total of 25 pounds or so and also get toned up as much as possible. What should I do?
Hello Shane,
the lean approach is best for loseing weight and tonig muscle. Classic is more for those would might want to build muscel and also increase athletic ability.
-Mike
May 02, 2010 @ 19:59:21
How long are all the dvds combined?
Hello George,
there are 12 DVD’s that are all about 1 – 1.5 hours each.
May 04, 2010 @ 23:03:18
Hi, I’ve already done some P90X exercises and I love it! I just want to know how much is good enough for me. I am 19 years old, 5’6, 113 lb. I dont want to bulk up, I want to really concentrate on my legs and glutes and tone the rest of the body. Also, any tips on making muscle in the calves?? thanks
Hello Valeria,
at 5’6″ and 113 pounds, I don’t think you need to lose any weight. If you want to add muscles to your legs, the legs and back workout would be the best and be sure to add resistance to get those muscles larger.
-Mike
May 15, 2010 @ 18:45:51
i am 39 years old, 5’7″ and 150 lbs. I am just finishing phase 1 of the classic version. I like the results so far but want to lose more weight. Another one of my goals is to have increased stamina and speed while hiking, both of which have improved dramatically so far. Should I continue with the classic or switch to the lean approach? If I switch, can I start the lean at phase 2 (where i am at in classic) or do i need to start over with the 90 days? Thanks!
Hey Lisa,
you should only switch to lean if you aren’t concerned wit speed and strength. These are things that are compromised in return for an increase in fat loss. If you switch, I would start with phase 2 and stay right where you are now.
-Mike
Jun 05, 2010 @ 23:49:11
I just bought p90x. Its a little bit confusing to me.. Do i do one disc for one week or a different disc each day?(I’ve been doing the first disc for the first week now.) N why are some workout sheets different.
Hello Tony,
there is a schedule located in the fitness guide that tells you what workout to do on what day. It changes everyday.
-Mike
Jun 07, 2010 @ 19:23:41
Hi, I am about to start this p90x and wondering which routine to do, lean or classic, I am female in relatively great shape, i just finished the insanity 60 day program! I want to add more muscle tone to my body, so im reading alot of the lean program is more cardio less resistance so im thinkig i prob want to do the classic to add muscle tone, is this correct? Im not looking to be bulky but I def want definition in my arms in legs that are lean and sexy but yet still shows im a woman with curves as well…
Yes Sofopa,
if you want to add muscle mass, go with the classic approach. Coming off of Insanity, you should have no problems with P90X! If you don’t want bulk, keep your weights on the lighter side and keep your reps at about 12-15.
-Mike
Jun 08, 2010 @ 12:06:57
I’ve just started the p90x program and am trying to determine which phase is best for me. I’m 36 years old, 6’3″ and 230 pounds. I used to be be quite athletic, but a full time job and a family have made it difficult to “fit” everything in. But I’m ready to commit myself to a long term change and am torn between starting with lean or the classic program. I’m not necessarily interested in what will shed the most weight the quickest, because I’m not sure that should be the goal, rather an opinion regarding long term results of whether the classic is better to start after going through the lean program or vice versa? I’ve seen differing opinions on this blog regarding what the best approach is. Thanks in advance for your help.
Scott
Hello Scott,
if you are not mainly concerned with weight loss, I would go with the Classic approach. This approach will give you a more all around program that will not only help you lose weight, but gain strength, speed, stamina and improve your overall athletic abilities.
-Mike
Jun 15, 2010 @ 02:16:05
which phase will help me lose more weight. i’m 5’6″ 255lbs.(i know i let myself go.) Back in High School I was only 150lbs. I want to shed more fat but would like to add some bulk in to.
Hey Tony,
the LEAN approach is for those who would like to focus on weight loss. The CLASSIC approach is for those who would like to lose weight in terms of fat, gain muscle, and improve performance. I think the classic approach would be the best way to go for you.
-Mike
Jun 24, 2010 @ 21:49:07
Yo, I’m 20, and just got done with the pre test of this program. I’m going to take a 2 week layoff and then hit this course full force. This reminds me of my “Rocky” Training days cutting down trees and running up mountains. Hah, I hope for the best with this program.
Thanks,
-Jeff
Jul 02, 2010 @ 19:09:41
Hello!
I’m really confused of which approach to take..
I am a female about 5″6 and 130 pounds. I’m looking to lose about 20 pounds.. But I also want to tone up, gain some muscle, and look really good. Not bulky though. I’m quite athletic.. I play basketball and tennis. I’ve changed my eating habits because they were horrible.. Help?
Thanks!
Hey Emma,
if you don’t need to increase strength or improve athletic abilities, go for the lean approach. You will be focusing on losing weight and you will still be able to tone your muscles without gaining any size in that department.
-Mike
Jul 04, 2010 @ 15:38:34
Hi, I was visiting my brother in L.A. recently and he introduced me to P90X. We did the stretch dvd together. He couldn’t believe that I could keep up with him on most of the stretches; the only ones that really were hard were the upward facing dog while lifting the legs off the floor (I can do it for a only a couple of seconds ) and sitting back with the legs bent back (hopefully that description makes sense). Anyways, I do need to lose quite a bit of weight, but am not unhealthy. My bp is great and I don’t easily get winded. I am wondering if it would be better to follow the lean schedule until I get down to my goal weight and then switch to classic. What do you all think? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Jul 20, 2010 @ 11:25:41
Hello Kim,
to focus on weight loss, the lean approach would be the best way to go. If you feel you are losing a good amount of weight and would like to start building up strength, you could switch to the classic approach.
-Mike
Jul 23, 2010 @ 23:40:08
wow.. im out of shape and too start i decided to do the lean workout.. 1st exercise has me tired. lol
Jul 28, 2010 @ 20:02:32
I’m starting my 90 days on August 1 2010 and I am looking to lose weight, tone my body, and strength what phase should I go with. Classic or lean?
Hello Tee,
if you are looking to gain strength, go with the classic approach.
-Mike
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Aug 02, 2010 @ 04:44:22
I am 15 years old, 5’5 and 132lb but not much muscle, would p90x be good for me? Im not trying to lose weight just gain muscle. And about how much time would i spend a day doing the workouts?
Hello Lalo,
I think the focus here should be on building muscle mass and reducing body fat. Starting a program like this and following the diet that goes along with it will most likely cause you to lose some weight. Especially if your diet and exercise habits were not so great prior to starting. There are things, however, you can do to help prevent yourself from losing a large number of pounds.
First, when it comes to the Nutrition Plan, skip phase 1 which is the “fat shredder” phase. This part of the plan is really low in carbs to help you burn off stored fat already in your body instead of burning off calories from carbs you may have just eaten.
The other thing you can do is to focus on using heavier weights and keep trying to increase you weights as you go along. 8-10 reps with a heavy weight will give you bulk. Doing 12-15 will give you more lean muscle mass.
Most of the workouts are about an hour long, with the exception of Ab Ripper X which is about 15 minutes, and Yoga X which is about 90 minutes.
-Mike
Oct 11, 2010 @ 10:48:27
Hi
I am on my second phase of the classic workout.
For the first phase I never missed a workout – when I got to week four I fell apart because core synergistics just about killed me. After that week it has been 3 weeks and I have pretty much fallen off the wagon.
I have not followed the p90x since I’ve started and therefore, have seen zero results.
I am going to start following the diet, but I want to know what workouts I should be doing.
Will it hurt to start over again with phase 1 or should I continue with phase 2?
Also, would doubles be a good idea right now?
Thank you
Hello Chad,
I think it would be best to start from the beginning. Get a fresh start with your diet and your workouts. You could certainly start doubles if you want, it’s just more of a time commitment, but will help you burn more body fat.
-Mike
Dec 07, 2010 @ 23:15:59
hi
im 14 years old 5’7 and 122 but most of my muscle is on my leg because of cross country. im currently doing p90x classic for more upper body strength, and i was wondering after i finished classic, should i repeat it for better results, or will that defeat the whole muscle confusion purpose?
Hi Ivan,
you can do a second round without losing your results. All you have to do is push your performance to the next level. Depending on what results you are looking for, you could do doubles or you can start to use heavier weights and top your reps from the first round.
-Mike
Jan 11, 2011 @ 14:14:11
I am turning 30 this year after having 2 kids (16 months and 3 1/2) I want to get in the best shape of my life before the new decade starts. I am an active individual and love to exercise. I am unsure as to if I should do Classic or Lean… I want to tone and gain (some) muscle definition, and losing 5-10 pounds is always ok too. Am I right to do the Classic program with lower weight and more reps?
Jan 11, 2011 @ 15:16:16
Hello Crissy,
you have chosen a great program, especially since you like to work out. This is not for those who don’t! I usually say go with the Classic approach and keep the weights on the lighter side and keep your reps between 12-15. This way you can still gain a little muscle definition without the bulk.
Chin ups:
This can be a balancing act between using the bar and the bands, if you have the choice. The chin up bar is the ultimate fat burning tool in my opinion. If you can do chin ups, go for the bar. Working large muscle groups helps your body to burn MORE fat while working out and even when your not working out. The back is a pretty large muscle group. (Legs too) BUT……….doing chin ups on the bar MAY give you “wings” if you are really good at it. Of course not huge ones and it’s not noticeable unless you turn around and flex for people. Most women would rather not have that at all, so to counter that, you could use the bands. You are still working the same muscle groups, but with the bands, you can keep the resistance down to under 50 pounds. Using the bar is like using your own body weight as resistance, which is why your muscles will grow larger.
Maybe start out with the bands and work your way up to the bar. Or, if you only have the bar, start out using a chair. This will help lessen the resistance.
If you really attack this program and give 100% you can lose more than 5-10 pounds. Keep in mind, adding muscle adds weight. Also, be sure to follow the nutrition plan!!
-Mike
Mar 24, 2011 @ 03:28:16
Hi I have a question, I just order all the kit of p90x, Im a female, 29 years old and im overweight with 30 pounds, my question is what advised can you give me to pick a program, Im not sure if is better the lean oR the classic program,I would like to loose the 30 pounds and have a normal muscle toning body plizzzzzz help me so I can get started as soon as I get my P90x
Mar 24, 2011 @ 14:46:04
Hello Lizzy,
if your main focus is going to be wight loss, go for the lean approach. The classic approach will also help you lose weight, but you will also be focusing on building muscle and improving athletic ability.
-Mike
p.s. If you want to lose some serious weight, make sure you follow the Nutrition Plan!
Apr 06, 2011 @ 20:12:42
Will doing the p90x double decrase the muscle mass? Because i want maintain my muscle but lose fat so i can get more toned and still be big (muscular)
Hello Acab,
you have to do a whole lot of cardio to start leaning out your muscles. Doubles wont reduce the muscles you have been working to build up.
-Mike
Jul 11, 2011 @ 06:02:36
Hi. I have a question. I am 5’3″ and 140lbs. I am starting P90x and I would like to lose about 20lbs. I want to be lean, and would love the follow that workout plan, but I would like to see results faster. Without getting bulky, should I do the “Doubles” workout plan?
Thanks!
-Monica
Hello Monica,
to get bulky, you would have to use heavier weights and keep your reps between 8 and 10. Doubles wont do that alone. To avoid the bulk, be sure to use lighter weights and do between 12-15 reps per set. 20 pounds is a very attainable goal when doing doubles. You get an extra cardio workout a few times per week to boost your calorie burn.
-Mike
Jul 15, 2011 @ 11:14:42
Just got the program just not sure whether to do lean or classic. I am 5′ 1″ and weigh 111lbs. I probably could lose a couple of pounds. I’m not happy with mid section. Which program would work for me? I am not tone or buff but I want to look like i am in good shape or have some definition.
Thanks
Hello Sandra,
that depends on what your goals are. If your main focus is to lose weight, go for the lean approach. If you want to improve overall athletic abilities, gain strength and lose weight, go for the classic approach.
-Mike
Aug 22, 2011 @ 14:23:15
I am a 25 year old woman. I’m 5’3″ and 125 lbs. I was a studen athlete in college and would like to get back in the shape I was in at that time. I’m not really looking to lose weight, just to tone back up and build up my endurance again. Would lean or classic be the way to go?
Hello Shannon,
I would go with the Classic Approach. The Lean Approach really focuses on weight loss, while the Classic Approach helps you to improve your overall athletic abilities.
-Mike
Dec 01, 2011 @ 09:45:20
I’m a 35 yr old woman I recently purchased p90x and started with the classic. I am looking to lose 40-50 lbs. I have a couple who lost 40lbs each after they were done with the classic but now they want to do the lean and I was thinking of joining them ( for motivation) I was wondering if I will lose the lbs I need with the lean program. I’ve been on the classic for almost 3 wks (missed a couple of days
I do eat very well also doing shakeology have lost 14lbs so far:)
Hello Ingrid,
if you want to focus on weight loss, you can switch to the lean program now. The amount of weight loss always depends on each person’s start weight (heavier=more dramatic loss), how well the diet is followed and how you approach each workout. If you just go through the motions and you miss a day here and there, your results wont be as great. You have to Bring It!
-Mike
Dec 12, 2011 @ 03:47:27
I’m getting ready to start the P90x program, and I’m a little unsure of which routine to do. I’m 5’8” weigh 278 my body fat 24%. My goal is to be 185-195lbs and be ripped with musle and visual definition n future. What routine would best suit my achievement through this program; Classic, Doubles, or Lean?
Hello Jay,
I think the classic approach would be the best route for you to take. This approach will not only allow you to shed body fat, but you can also build muscle at the same time.
-Mike