The P90X Chin-Up Bar is the perfect piece of equipment to help in developing your shoulders, back and arms. It’s recommended that you have it before starting to use your P90X videos. The P90X Chin-Up Bar really has a unique design. The bar doesn’t fit inside the door frame like most other bars on the market. Instead it extends past the width of the door frame so you can do wide-grip pull-ups and a lot of other pull-up exercises that are really fun. With the P90X Chin-Up Bar you can really take your workout to the next level, strengthening and developing your back, shoulders and arms with 6 different grip positions. Plus the bar is super-strong, holding your weight up to a max of 300 lbs.
But what if you just don’t have a good doorway to install it in? Does that mean you have to miss out on all these great chin-ups and pull-ups? And what about when you have to go out of town for work or on vacation? What can you do in your hotel room? What are you going to use then? Well, those inventive people who developed the P90X Chin-Up Bar have also come up with an answer just for these types of occasions. After all, you don’t want to hit a plateau just because you don’t have an appropriate doorway for the bar.
Resistance Bands are the answer! Sure, you’re already using them for all those other exercises and moves so you know how handy they can be. You don’t need to lug around heavy weights. Resistance bands are easy to use and they don’t take up any room at all. And they provide all the resistance you need to develop your entire range of muscles to give yourself a total body workout. Resistance bands come in different colors signifying different weights. They also come in different weight strengths for men and women. Or you can simply buy one complete resistance band kit that has the whole range of weights.
Another great thing about these resistance bands is that they can be used on moves that that would usually be done on the P90X Chin-Up Bar. There’s something called the Resistance Bands Upgrade Kit which will help you do all the P90X Chin-Up Bar exercises if you don’t have a doorway handy or if you simply are not yet advanced enough to use the bar. This can be a troublesome area for some people.
The Resistance Bands comes with a door attachment that you can loop your resistance band through and do modified routines that would normally be done on the P90X Chin-Up Bar. You probably already know that the workout routines ask you to do chin-ups, pull-ups, etc. But did you also know that the videos will show you how to use the Upgrade Kit alternative, as well as the P90X Chin-Up Bar? Each workout that requires the use of the Chin-Up Bar also shows you the modified move that can be done with the bands and Upgrade Kit.
So why not give it a try. With both the P90X Chin-Up Bar and the Resistance Band Upgrade Kit you can be prepared for any situation. You won’t have to miss any of your workout no matter where you are!
See Resistance Band Upgrade Kit Instructions >>> 
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
Sep 23, 2008 @ 10:34:45
How do you attach your resistance band upgrade kit to the door
Sep 23, 2008 @ 10:50:01
Hi Justin,
We have just added the Resistance Band Upgrade Kit Instructions to the bottom of this post. Please feel free to download the PDF for full details. We hope this helps!
Sep 30, 2008 @ 20:40:31
Do I use 1 disc for one week or can I rotate the first 3 disc doing the week? I also need to know about the chin up’s. I don’t have a bar, but do have the band, but the area I workout in do not have a place to put the band on a door. My other email adress is darnell.archer@comcast.net.
Oct 01, 2008 @ 10:28:17
Hi Darnell. You need to refer to your Fitness Guide that was included with your purchase of the P90X it will show you exactly how to alternate each of the 12 workouts throughout the 90 days.
If you do not have a door that will close to use the Resistance Band Upgrade kit
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
for your modified pull up routines you should really look into the P90X Chin-up bar itself.
You can check out P90X chin up bar here:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/chin-up-bar.php
Nov 18, 2008 @ 02:01:28
Hi,
I do not have a doorway to place a chin up bar nor the resistant bands. Before I make this purchase, will there be other alternative exercise I can do?
THanks
Nov 18, 2008 @ 10:43:43
Hi Vicky
While you may not have a doorway that accommodates the chin-up bar, you should have a doorway that at least has hinges—that’s all you need! You simply use the Resistance Band Upgrade Kit which includes the door attachment. All you do is open the door loop it around the top hinge close the door and feed through the resistance band and you’re ready to do the modified chin-up bar routines with your bands.
Resistance Band Upgrade Kit
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
P90X does require that you either use your own free weights or the P90X resistance bands to perform the various exercises included in the program.
Resistance Bands (Women)
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-women.php
Please let us know if you have any other questions or concerns.
Nov 18, 2008 @ 19:06:28
What kind of door *do* I need for the pull-up bar?
It looks like it rests on the upper lip, the only door I have that would work has a narrow top lip (say 1/2 inch?) and a cable coming out right after the left end of it.
Also it is not near the tv will that change things?
Nov 18, 2008 @ 19:07:08
How about weights? I can get a set of the Bowflex Selecttech which allow you to quickly change from 2.5 to 52 lbs, would those be a better bet then the weights?
Nov 18, 2008 @ 19:07:59
Last question; For the Cardio/Plyo how much space do I need? I have s smallish space in my living room can probably get 6×6 is that going to be sufficient?
Nov 18, 2008 @ 20:06:06
Hi Michael,
The P90X Chin up bar fits doorways up to 24″ – 32″ wide (doorway with trim required) The thickness of the trim is not important so as long as it’s not extremely thick which is usually only the case with certain doorways in older homes you should be fine.
The flat part of the Chin-up bar hooks around and rests on the 2 small brackets that you install into wall just above the door frame. These brackets do not receive much weight as the weight is distributed to the doorframe and pushed into the wall. The brackets really serve to keep the Chin-Up bar from falling down. It doesn’t seem like that cable would interfere. See this link for details on the P90X Chin-Up Bar;
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/chin-up-bar.php
The Bowflex Selecttechs are great or you could certainly opt for a few lesser expensive free weights of your own. We do sell P90X Resistance Bands and they are perfectly suitable for the program. Many of our customers like to have both resistance bands and free weights as they offer different strengths for different exercises. See this link for more details:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-men.php
As far as space is concerned that does seem a bit cramped but you can make it work. As long as you don’t have too much furniture in the way the only lateral movements you’ll be making are lunges, and jumps, which can be done with space limitations.
We hope this helps. If you have any other questions please feel free to email us directly at:
customerservice@extremebodyworkout.com
We look forward to assisting you and getting you started with P90X!!!!!
Nov 22, 2008 @ 08:42:36
Which bands should I order. If a get the 20-40 lbs set is that enough resistance do work with when using them for chin-ups. I’ve never used bands before so any help is appreciated. I would say I have average strength and above average stamina (3:44 marathon). Thanks!
Nov 23, 2008 @ 13:59:47
Jason,
With P90X you can use your own free weights and / or the P90X resistance bands. If you opt for the bands go for the Men’s kit
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-men.php
If you’re going to use the bands for Chin-ups you’ll need to purchase the Upgrade kit for your door attachment:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
You want to make sure you have enough resistance for the pull-ups with the bands. If you have the room you should step back far enough away from the door to increase the tension on the band to create enough resistance to get the most out of it.
I’ll tell you from personal experience the Men’s kit bands are great for everything else but I have some space limitations and I really find that using the 50lb band works best for the pull-ups.
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/50lb-resistance-band.php
If it’s not enough, move back more, if it’s too much move a little closer to reduce the resistance, it’s really that easy. Hope this helps!
-Matt
Staff
Bookmarks about Bands
Dec 15, 2008 @ 02:15:11
[...] – bookmarked by 5 members originally found by SimonDorfman on 2008-11-05 How to modify P90X Chin-Up Bar routines with Resistance Bands [...]
Jan 20, 2009 @ 15:51:25
Looking a buying the p90x but i dont know if its right for me.
im bout 6ft tall and bout 140lbs i hate being this little want to gain musle and weight is this program right for me?
Any help would be gladely appreicated.
Hi John,
The P90X will help you gain the muscle you are looking for, no question about that. If you don’t really need to loose any fat, you may need to look to the P90X Nutrition Plan for help in that area. For example, phase 1 of the Nutrition Plan is called the “Fat Shredder Phase.” For someone like you, this phase could be cut short or totally eliminated if you really do not need or want to loose weight. Most people who start the P90X loose several pounds while in phase 1.
-Erin
Staff
Jan 31, 2009 @ 11:42:52
I’ve been an avid exerciser for a long time and have been adding in P90x cardio routines (Kenpo, CardioX, Plyo) and Yoga to add variety to my exercise regime. I would like to incorporate some of the resistance workouts. The space at home that I work out in, however, only has a a double wide closet that has two doors with magnetic closure. Obviously a pull up bar will not work. It’s unclear to me whether or not the resistance band kit will work on a door hinge with a door that does not latch. Any suggestions?
Hi Adrianne,
The Resistance Band Door Attachment kit needs to be hooked to the inside door hinge, then pulled through the other side of the door, and the door is supposed to shut on the safety band. If you can hook the band up inside of you closet and shut your closet door on the bands AND be able to pull the bands without them snapping off on you, it may work. Although if your closet doesn’t securely latch, like if you can’t just push it open, the kit probably wont work for you. But, since I can’t totally envision what your closet set-up looks like, you can purchase the bands with the kit and try it out. If they don’t work anywhere in your home, return them and we would be happy to issue you a refund.
-Erin
Staff
Mar 02, 2009 @ 16:08:02
Hello!
I was not aware that I needed a feel set of dumbells/free weights. At this moment I only have a pair of 8 lbs. dumbells. I was planning to start P90X today, but now I think I might have to wait. Would suggest any alternatives?
Hi Vanessa,
You definitely do not need to have dumbbells. For more variety they are helpful, but you can use resistance bands as well. Please see the following page for a complete list of all P90X Equipment:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products.php
Mar 06, 2009 @ 07:38:53
Hi,
I don’t have a door. My workout area is in my basemant and it’s an open space with no doors. Is there any was of using the resistance bands in place of the chin up bar? How would I used them with no door??
Mar 11, 2009 @ 09:48:23
Hi Mafalda,
If you don’t have a door the P90X Chin-up Bar is definitely out.
The door attachment for the bands isn’t really going to help you either so i’d suggest getting a little creative. Now these recommendations are not official in anyway but I’d rather see you get going than not suggest anything at all.
If you have beams or poles, or other secure, and stable structures you may be able to simply loop the bands around them, sit on the floor and do the resistance band pull-ups. You could also think about installing a bracket or strong hook from the hardware store to the wall or ceiling and looping them around that. BE SURE that whatever you use is structurally sound and will not detach and come flying back at you. We cannot be responsible for any injury as this of course is not an official method of using the resistance bands. But, I hope this helps give you some ideas.
-Matt
Apr 22, 2009 @ 01:25:36
Hi,
I live with roommates and I only have a small space in my room where I could do the workouts ( about the size of a hallway) , how much room space would I need for the program?
Hey Nadia,
You don’t need a whole lot of room, just enough to do maybe two lunge steps in any direction. If your space is longer than it is wide, you just might have to adjust your positioning during the workouts.
-Mike
May 11, 2009 @ 23:36:14
Dear Staff,
How long should it take a female to be able to do 5-10 pull ups if she strictly follows the P90X program (working out 5 times a week), given she couldn’t do any pull ups when she started the program?
May 28, 2009 @ 06:32:48
P90X Chin-Up bar
All the doors in the house are 36″ wide. Will the bar still work?
Hi Gary,
Although the top bar will be attached with brackets to the top of your door frame, the ends of the bar need to rest against the trim of your door for added support. They just might miss. You can always try the bar and if it doesn’t fit, feel free to send it back to us for a refund.
-Mike
Jun 21, 2009 @ 00:19:55
I just purchased the chin up bar and discovered that my walls are just a little too wide. Is there and extender piece for the front supports. Is trying to make one recommended?
Hi Cailen,
I wouldn’t recommend trying to make and extender piece. That could be dangerous. There isn’t one that you can purchase, but if none of your doorways work, you can use the resistance bands along with the upgrade kit to do the same exercises. Or, you can purchase any free standing chin-up bar.
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-complete-kit.php
-Mike
Jun 24, 2009 @ 00:33:45
Hi,
I am very much interested in buying this program, but I am concerned if the exercises will be too much for me.I have a significant amount of weight I would like to lose, and I am wondering if I go slow, I can eventually do pull-ups, do several push-ups, sit-ups etc.. My biggest concern is my lower abdomen, because I have what I call a pouch that I hate and connot get rid of. Do you think p90x can rid me of this dreadful fat?
Jun 24, 2009 @ 00:39:05
Hi,
I am very much interested in buying this program. I am concerned that the exercise will be too much for me. I have a significat amount of weight to lose and wonder if I can build my self up to to do the pull-ups, push-ups and all the sit-ups. My biggest concern is my lower abdomen, because I have what I call a pouch that I hate and cannot get rid of. Do you think that P90x can rid me of this fat?
Hi Jeannette,
If you are unsure about the P90X, try taking the fitness test. If you can pass this test, you can do the P90X. If not, you may want to start with the Power 90. This is sort of the stepping stone up to the P90X with the same ideas incorporated into the workouts. If you think you can handle the P90X, you can set your own pace. You are allowed, as they will say in the video, to choose the number of reps you will do. They also show you how to do modified versions of the exercises if you are not up to doing the full out moves. Then you can certainly work your way up to more reps and doing “un-modified” moves.
If you are up to the challenge, the P90X will help you get your body how you want it.
-Mike
Jul 18, 2009 @ 16:27:31
I’m a 6 foot 8 inch male, and I weigh right at 300 lbs. The weight limit on the pull up bar is 300 lbs. Would you suggest that I start off with the bands for these pull up exercises? Or would it still work okay with my height and weight?
Jul 20, 2009 @ 13:29:36
Hello James,
to be on the safe side, start of with the bands. You might be able to switch over to the chin-up bar midway through the workout, then you will be able to really sculpt those upper body muscles.
-Mike
Jul 22, 2009 @ 12:42:35
I have a problem, i have the chin bar but i can only do 2 pull ups! the bad part is that i already ordered the program, and i can not waste any more money on the resistance band alternative. am i screwed? The pull ups always been an intimidation to my exercise regime, that’s why i only hit the weights. what can i do? should i go for it? or cancel the whole thing.
Hello Fernando,
No! Don’t give up before you even start! So you can only do 2 now, in a few weeks you will be doing at least 10. What you can do to help yourself is use a chair. Put one foot on the chair and give your arms a little help to complete your reps. Eventually you wont need the chair. There are people in the video’s that demonstrate how to use the chair while doing chin-ups. So stick with it!
-Mike
Jul 22, 2009 @ 20:05:29
Here’s a question, can these exercises eliminate Gynecomastia? if you don’t know what that means is like sort of a male boobs condition. My brother has this problem and would like to know if p90x would help, instead of expensive surgery. Any success stories about this?
Jul 22, 2009 @ 20:47:06
Oh! another question, is it possible that i could enjoy a social Saturday with my fiance during the program ? Can we drink a bottle of wine or champagne on a Saturday nights? I am going to give it my best on this program but still would like to have a life “if you know what i am saying” is this still possible? or impossible? Thanks!
Jul 29, 2009 @ 08:41:37
What happened nobody ever answered me?
Sorry about that Fernando,
We get a whole lot of questions an comments on this blog and we do try to keep up with everyone as best as we can.
So, interesting question about “male boobs”. I don’t know too much about that subject, but I can tell you that the P90X does work the pectoral muscles quite a bit. You will also loose a good amount of fat, so this program could help your brothers situation, BUT, if there is some kind of hormonal element to that condition, like extra estrogen in the body, that would be something he should consult a doctor about. I haven’t had any success stories about this topic on this blog as of yet, but maybe your brother can be the first!
Yes! You are allowed to have a life! Just don’t drink yourself silly with high calorie drinks. Use moderation, that’s all.
-Mike
Jul 29, 2009 @ 12:58:01
Thanks!! that’s great advise, you were extremely helpful!
Aug 01, 2009 @ 16:54:11
I just bought the P90X program, but can’t install a chin-up bar anywhere in my house. Is it possible to substitute the exercise routines with dumbbells instead?
If, not I’ll just be buying the resistance bands and the upgrade kit. Is it also possible to use another companies resistance bands with your upgrade kit? Will I still see just as good results with the bands?
Hello Gadsden,
It may be difficult to simulate the chin-up exercises with dumbbells since it is a pulling motion you are trying to achieve instead of lifting or pushing. The bands with the upgrade kit would be the best alternative to the chin-up bar. The motions would be the same, but the resistance would not be as great. With the chin-up bar, you are using your whole body as resistance.
-Mike
Sep 10, 2009 @ 09:53:19
Can you do these DVDs/workouts if you are pregnant? I do incorporate weight training and cardio in my daily routine, however I was just concerned about doing this type of workout while I was pregnant.
Hi Kelly,
First and foremost, consult your doctor before starting any fitness program while pregnant. I wouldn’t do P90X. It’s too demanding and there are many things that could go wrong even if you are being careful. Jumping and lifting weights Im sure are not recommended for pregnant women. I am not saying that you can’t exercise when your pregnant, but you should try and find a program geared specifically towards pregnant women, or try simple exercises on your own. Nothing high impact or anything that might cause you to strain. Stretching is always good, walking, and elliptical machine at a slow pace might be ok too.
P90X probably isn’t a good choice for you.
-Mike
Staff
Sep 20, 2009 @ 00:01:24
Hey, I bought the P90X program and have been getting back into workin out using the 2 extra workouts while waitin to receive the pull-up bar. I’m loving it, its feels great! Now I have the pul-up bar, got it all put together (directions are a lil goofy) and it only fits into two doorways in my house because the rest are all too thick. The problem is that one doorway is in my living room upstairs and I dont want to drill holes in my walls or run all the way upstairs to do the pull-ups then run back downstairs to continue workin out. The second door is in my garage, I live in Iowa, winter gets a lil chilly so I dont wanna do pull-ups in -10 degree weather. So…all this to ask: does the pull-up bar have to be installed in a doorway? There is no way it can be hung from beems in my basement ceiling?
Thanks
ps. sorry for the long post I tend to go into depth explainin things
Hello Kurt.
It’s not recommended that you install your chin-up bar other than in a doorway. The sides of the doorway offer a great deal of the support. You could try the resistance bands in any doorway. You wont get as much weight obviously, you wont be using your own body for resistance. But the exact movements can be replicated with the resistance bands and the band upgrade kit. As long as you can shut the safety band in the door, this can work in any room.
Bands:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-complete-kit.php
Band Upgrade Kit:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
-Mike
Staff
Oct 12, 2009 @ 10:21:08
Hey i was introduced to p90x in my college weight training class (that ab ripper x workout is crazy….i like it). so i decided to give the whole program a go. my 2 questions are 1.) i am 6 foot 1 inch and weight about 155 lbs, i want to get bigger and look more muscular but not mr. universe muscluar just look more attractive and such, is this program for me? and 2.) i was reading through the site and found that resistance bands can subsitute weights and chin up bars, if i get the mens set could i double the resistance bands like 20 and 30 makes 50. could i do that or do i have to opt for the 50 band? any help is greatly appreciated and thank you for making a program like this.
Hi George,
If you follow the workouts and the high protein low carb diet, you can build the muscle you are looking for. Stick with heavier weights and do about 8-10 reps. If you can do 11, you need something heavier. Your last two or three reps should be tough.
You can use the resistance bands in place of dumbbells and the chin-up bar. If you plan to use them for the chin-up exercises, you will need the band upgrade kit to attach the bands to the doorway. It’s pretty easy to install and much less space consuming. If you are looking to get more resistance out of one band, you can always make a loop under your feet or step on it closer to the handle. You could possibly double them up, but it might be hard to properly grip two of the band handles at the same time. You cannot attach two bands to one handle. I would just get the 50 lb band.
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
-Mike
Staff
Nov 04, 2009 @ 18:45:07
My house is quite old, even the doorframes. If I was to use this chin up bar will it break my doorframe?
Hello Max,
that’s hard for me to determine! The chin-up bar needs to rest on top of the frame and will also press against the front of the sides of the doorway. You can always try it and if it doesn’t work, return it for a refund. If you are not sure if it will hold, please test it out with someone spotting you or a chair near by. You could also go with the resistance bands and upgrade kit. As long as you san securely shut your door on the safety band, this will work in any doorway.
Bands:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-complete-kit.php
Band Upgrade Kit:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
-Mike
Staff
Nov 16, 2009 @ 23:23:19
hi staff, i have a question, i want to buy the p90x training workouts but i’m not sure what exactly i need to be able to get started, do i need weights? i have a mat and pull up bar, but nothing else, what else is recommended to get to get through the program?
Hi Erik.
Required Accessories & Supplements:
Chin-Up Bar
Resistance Bands or Weights
P90X Recovery Formula
Recommended Accessories:
Manduka Plyo Yoga Mat
A very common question we get is, “what P90X accessories are recommended to get started with the program?” The P90X program requires that you use either free weights or resistance bands, this is an absolute necessity. If you already own free weights you can use those, if not we offer resistance bands geared to both men and women. The Resistance Bands (Men) kit contains 20lbs, 30lbs, and 40lbs, bands, The Resistance Bands (Women) kit offers 15lbs, 20lbs, and 30lbs, and the Resistance Bands Complete Kit has all the bands for Men and Women, plus 4 additional bands for even more variety. Resistance bands provide tension throughout the entire range of motion requiring you to remain stabilized, this helps to engage more muscle groups and increase coordination.
RESISTANCE BANDS (MEN)
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-men.php
RESISTANCE BANDS (WOMEN)
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-women.php
RESISTANCE BANDS COMPLETE
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-complete-kit.php
One of the most important P90X accessories is the P90X Chin Up-Bar. A crucial element of the program is the development of your shoulders, back and arms. The unique, patented design of the P90X Chin-Up Bar allows you to to do Wide Front Pull-Ups, Reverse Grip Chin-Ups, Switch Grip Pull-Ups and Corn Cob Pull-ups, just to name a few!
P90X CHIN-UP BAR
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/chin-up-bar.php
Another item on the list of recommended P90X accessories is the Manduka Plyo / Yoga Mat. It’s no ordinary mat! It’s a lot thicker and denser than traditional yoga mats and it’s specifically designed for high performance, providing a shock absorbing surface for your workouts, which helps limit stress from high impact exercises.
MANDUKA PLYO / YOGA MAT
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/plyo-yoga-mat.php
or you can opt for our basic YOGA MONSTER MAT:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/p90x-yoga-monster-mat.php
One of the most popular and most effective P90X nutritional supplement is the P90X Recovery Formula. P90X is an intense program, after every workout your body needs to recover. The faster you recover, the faster you can progress. P90X Recovery formula gives your body the protein, vitamins and antioxidants it craves after your workouts and is required in order to follow the nutritional plan outlined in the P90X program.
P90X PEAK RECOVERY FORMULA
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/p90x-peak-recovery-formula.php
All of the additional equipment and nutritional supplements we offer along side the P90X will serve to improve your results, this small list of P90X accessories should get you started and on the path to success with the program!
-Mike
Staff
Dec 14, 2009 @ 23:31:34
Hi!
My name is Kaylee. I’m 14 almost 15 & my dad just bought me the P90X. I was wondering if it works for people my age as well? I started the workout today. (Which wasn’t a good idea because I don’t have a chin up bar or the upgraded kit for the bands. But I do have them, anyway.) Oh wait! That reminds me! haha. Should I stop doing the P90X until I get the upgraded kit for the bands? Or should I keep going? :/ Bleh… As I was saying. Man. This IS one hell of a work out! I didn’t think I was that out of shape! Lol!
Anways thanks,
Kaylee.
Dec 17, 2009 @ 15:02:29
Hi Kaylee,
there really isn’t an age restriction. As long as you are old enough to READ and pass the fitness test, you should be ok! You can continue with the program without the equipment if you want, doing what you can. This way you will have a taste of what’s to come! When you get everything you need, start from day one. This way you will know what to expect and you will be fully prepared.
-Mike
Staff
Dec 28, 2009 @ 00:22:26
Got a chinup bar but as my doorway is not that tall when I grab the bar I’m standing on my feet flat. do I pull myself anyway?
Dec 28, 2009 @ 09:03:51
Hi Michael,
This is not uncommon. Everyone has slightly different doorways and the solution is easy. Once you grab on to your chin up bar simply bend your knees and pull them up toward your body. If you were to hang fully extended with your knees bent, you should now be in a position were your feet do not touch the ground. At this point you can proceed with your chin-up routines.
-Matt
Staff
Jan 10, 2010 @ 12:29:18
Hello,
I’ve recently moved into a new apt that does not have door jams in any of the entrances except the front door and the bedrroms and bathrooms. I’ll be working out in my living room so I wont be near those doorways when I work out. Any suggestions on what I can use as an alternative to a pull up bar or the resistance band kit ( again no doorjams), I dont think my the complex or my neighbors above me will like me drilling holes n the ceiling.Thanks
Jan 13, 2010 @ 15:17:47
Just a quick question. I am really interested in getting started on the P90X, but the pull-ups are kind of getting in the way. I live in a trailer and do not know if the pull-up bar would be supported enough. Another thing is that I have a Golds gym workout machine, and I was wondering if the lat bar could also simulate pull-ups.
Feb 10, 2010 @ 12:50:56
I also live in a trailer. Will the pull-up bar work in a trailer?
Feb 10, 2010 @ 16:18:57
Hello Serena,
If you can’t use the chin-up bar or the bands, I don’t see an alternative unfortunately. Push-ups don’t exactly hit all of the same areas, but that might be the next best thing.
-Mike
Feb 12, 2010 @ 01:58:32
I have just the resistance band….. what if I don have a pull up bar or
The attachment….. do I “have” to buy either one in order to do the pull ups….. or is there any other way I can connect them to my door?
Feb 15, 2010 @ 15:27:57
Hello Justin,
a at bar can simulate chin ups, yes.
Feb 15, 2010 @ 15:29:27
Hi Amanda,
that depends on how strong your door frame is!! You could go with the bands and the door attachment kit:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistance-bands-women.php
-Mike
Feb 15, 2010 @ 15:29:47
A LAT bar…sorry for the typo!
Feb 15, 2010 @ 15:30:55
Hello Letticia, you do need the attachment piece to use the bands in the door. It isn’t safe otherwise:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
-Mike
Feb 21, 2010 @ 10:09:40
if i buy the chin up bar and it doesnt fit in my door , If I act quick enough can I return it?
Feb 26, 2010 @ 13:26:21
Hi James,
yes, there is a 30 day money back guarantee if the bar doesn’t fit.
Mar 12, 2010 @ 01:31:01
I am currently using P90X and love it . However, right now I’m subbing pull ups for other back exercise but really want to be able to do the pull ups. I purchased the chin up bar but realized I was unable to install it. I am interested in getting the bands but want to know if the women band would be sufficient enough to get the job done?
Mar 12, 2010 @ 03:41:00
which is better:chin up bar or resistance bands??
i also dont have a doorway that fit to the chin up bar so im thinking of the resistance bands but i saw a lot of videos of p90x users thats uses chin up bar who had great results..so im thinking will i have the same result when using the resistance bands??????
Mar 12, 2010 @ 13:11:26
Hello KJ,
I have found that, for the chin-up exercises, you need a heavier band. To do a chin-up on the bar, you have to lift you body weight. Using a 20 or 30 pound band will not even come close to the resistance you get with the bar. I would get the men’s kit that has the heavier bands, and maybe even the 50 pound band. Or, get the complete kit for all the different weights from 5-50.
-Mike
Mar 12, 2010 @ 13:15:26
Hello Kazu,
NO. The bands offer the same range of motion, but the resistance is far less than using the chin-up bar. With the bar, the resistance is your body weight. With the bands, you can only go up to 50 pounds. For some, the bands are perfect they can’t do a pull up or for those who would rather build more lean back muscles. The chin-up bar offers amazing results because of the heavy resistance factor and the fact that building large muscle groups, burns fat all over your bod.
-mike
Mar 22, 2010 @ 23:56:50
Okay, I got the bands and the upgrade kit how in the heck do I attach to the door for pull ups exercises? Directions suck sorry, I really need help:-). What am I missing?
Hi KJ,
I understand! I was a little confused too when I first saw this door kit. There is a product demo video on extremebodyworkout.com that shows how it works. It’s hard to explain, but I will try!!
So you have to wrap the safety band around the top hinge on the side you will be working from, with that plastic thing flush against the hinge, then the other end of the strap goes through to the other side of the door then back through to the front. Then you pull it through the part thats wrapped around the hinge. If you pause the video where it goes up close, I think you can see how it works!!
-Mike
link to page with video:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
Apr 16, 2010 @ 10:56:45
One of my DVDs got damaged. Is there a way to purchase a replacement single DVD?
Yes Jerome,
please contact customer service for further information:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/customer-service.php
-Mike
Apr 18, 2010 @ 16:27:35
I have elbow pain when I do pull-ups and have stopped doing them as a result. I’m interested in P90x (i’m in the later stages of Power 90 now) but I’m concerned I won’t get the true benefit without the pull-ups. I’m not sure the resistance bands are a good substitute as they may still cause problems for my elbow. Do you think other back exercises (dumbbell rows for instance) could provide a similar benefit?
Hi Tj.
I am no doctor, but you might have tendonitis. It’s pretty easy to get and sometimes can linger for a while. The bands can give you the same range of motion, but the resistance is far less than what you would get with the bar. The bands would be much easier on your elbow.
Rows do target the back, but can be tricky. Just a make slight adjustment in the way your arms are positioned and you are working your shoulders. Lat pull downs would be an alternative if you have a machine or a bow-flex at home.
Good luck!
-Mike
May 02, 2010 @ 19:13:34
I started this week – loving it! I just got the chin-up bar and sad to say can do about 1 or 2. I did notice it caused some neck pain..I have had fusion surgery about 4 years ago and nothing else in the P90x so far has caused pain. Any advice?
Thanks,
Bob
Hey Bob, stop doing chin-ups and talk to your doctor. You might have to switch to the resistance bands and upgrade kit. There should be less strain on your neck this way.
-Mike
May 03, 2010 @ 09:25:47
Hi, Just 2 questions.
A.) I was wanting to know if you have a website that ships the resistance band upgrade to the UK? When I went to purchase it, it tolf me I could not buy as it only ships to the US.
I have just bought my P90X and want to start however my doors are simply not suitable to put a chin up bar. I found that there was an alternative and that was with the resistance bands.
B.)I have a set of Tunturi band kit (can I use them with the upgrade set?).
Please advise thanks
Hello Priscilla,
I apologize but extremebodyworkout.com does not ship outside of the US. The straight band should work ok with the upgrade kit.
-Mike
May 10, 2010 @ 14:24:33
I just got the P90X, and I have no place for the chin up bar : ( I also have a bow flex dumbell dial set. Can I use these dumbells in replace of the bar and the bands?
Hello Kai,
you can use bowflex dial dumbbells for arm curls, etc, but you will need either a bar or the bands with the upgrade kit to do the chin-up exercises.
-Mike
May 17, 2010 @ 19:34:10
Hello,
I am a 22 year old female and I just bought p90x. I purchased the resistance bands but not the pull up bar. If I am looking for a workout that is moreso geared towards weightloss and building lean muscles, is the chin up bar an absolute necessity?
Thanks
Hi Sarina,
if your main focus is weight loss, I would go with the lean approach, which will also help tone and tighten. If you have the resistance bands, you can get the band upgrade kit to do modified versions of the chin-ups without having to use the bar.
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/p90x-products/resistancebandugkit.php
check the video out to see how it works.
-Mike
Jun 15, 2010 @ 16:26:13
The space available between ceiling and and door is just 1″.
This is enough space to install the chin up bar?
Jul 14, 2010 @ 00:54:34
Hello Staff,
quick question will the vhin up bar fit in my doorway it is 18 inches width?
thanks, Johnny
Sep 07, 2010 @ 22:53:41
Your url you sent me came thru, thanks, but it appears to not be working, does anybody have a backup, or mirror source? Just something that works.
Sep 20, 2010 @ 21:01:29
How long are each DVD workout videos? & how long are you supposed to work out every day?
Nov 11, 2010 @ 01:12:14
Hey, can I still do P90X? I’m in drug rehab and sometimes I get some heroin from a good neighbor. I just do a little of it, but I want to get fit instead of the drug. I almost got to jail man!
Dec 12, 2010 @ 18:32:18
Hi, I live in an old house, and I feel like my doorway is going to break when I use the P90X pull-up bar. So, I’m going to use the resistance bands and the upgrade kit. The question is, will it have less stress on the door hinges? I am afraid of the door hinges giving away or breaking on me, since that will be quite a problem. Is the upgrade kit safe on all door hinges?
Dec 27, 2010 @ 19:16:29
I wish there was a back, arm and shoulder exercise that did not involve using the door frame. I think my door frames are too weak for the chin up bar and the resistance bands. Should the program be returned if you can’t use your door or door frames and you don’t have ceiling beams?
Jan 01, 2011 @ 18:03:45
Hey! I want to get started on the P90X program ASAP, however, I do not have a suitable place to use a chin-up bar OR resistance bands. The house I stay in is old and the door frames/poles/everything else cannot stand any sort of pressure on them. I am almost infuriated, because I do not know what to use in place of either resistance bands or a chin-up bar. Is there any way to use free weights for the chin-up exercises? I know from doing the program in the past that the chin-ups are a huge part of the program. Any advice would help.
Jan 30, 2011 @ 20:23:15
I cant do pull ups in my house with the pull up bar only bands … so i need to buy the same amount of weight in bands that i weigh? since i want to do a reall pull up
Mar 27, 2011 @ 16:48:05
I’m starting my second week of P90X. I noticed that during the pull ups in the first week I was maxed out half way through the week, and not having enough strength to do pull ups without the chair assist. I was wondering if the resistance bands would be better for me or should I continue using the chair assist? I also have the pull up assist machine at work in the weight room. But I rather do the program at home since its a 30 min drive to work. How much progress will be made with the bands to gain lat strength?
Thanks
Ross
Hello Ross,
the bands are great for lean muscle, but if you are looking for bulk and serious strength back there, you want to try and get better with the bar. You can only go up to about 50 pounds of resistance with the bands. With the bar, you are using your entire body weight as resistance. Keep going with the chair and work your way to no chair. You can start off by placing the chair close under your body using your entire foot to help yourself up. Gradually push the chair further away and use less of your foot, ending with the chair being your legs length away using only your toes to help. From there you should be really close to doing chin-ups without the help of the chair.
Make sure the chair is sturdy!
-Mike
Apr 01, 2011 @ 20:54:39
I have the chin up bar but still struggle without using a chair. Is there a good chin up bar assistance band that you can put a knee into (im 6’2″ so i can stand and easily grab the bar with arms slightly bent)?
Thanks.
Apr 04, 2011 @ 13:34:50
Hello Paul,
Beachbody doesn’t carry anything like that, but the chair works well. Plus you can gradually use the chair less and less so you can eventually do chin-ups without any help.
-Mike
Apr 05, 2011 @ 14:56:57
I have been doing it for two weeks awesome program I like it and will finish. I have not been able t do the pull ups no dor way i have bands. I just do push ups for now. Im not strong enough to do pull ups any way so maybe after a few rounds of phase one I will be able to switch where I do the workout and get to pulling up for now. I replace them with push ups about 15 20 if i can ten some times. I dk what else to do but Tony wants me working !
That sounds like a good plan David!
Apr 11, 2011 @ 14:30:24
im not able to do pull ups with the bar right now and my door isnt that strong to use with the bands and i already got the p90x program what can i do ?
Hello John,
if you can’t use the bands or the chin-up bar in your home, you will just have to replace those sets with other exercises that can help strengthen your chest, back and biceps. There aren’t really too many choices actually, but you can try rows or bent over rows. It wont work in the same way, but it’s a close alternative. Also, if you can simulate a straight arm lat pullover with dumbbells, that is also a way to work the back and shoulders as well.
-Mike
Apr 23, 2011 @ 16:20:26
I have a set of weights…is this all I need to get started on the P90X….or can I get the resistance bands….will that allow me to get full use of the DVD’s…..and these will serve as replacement for the chin up bar…thanks
Hello barbara,
if you have dumbbells, and you don’t plan on doing the chin-up or pull-ups, the only other piece of equipment that you might want to have is a yoga mat. This will come in handy if you have hard wood floors.
-Mike
Apr 28, 2011 @ 19:30:28
hi i was wondering i am going to get p90x but am a little nervous about it and am not sure about all the things i need to do the workouts plz help
Hello Raxon,
if you are unsure that you can handle this workout, try the fitness test. If you can pass, the P90X is right for you. If not, you might want to start with something similar, but more for beginners like the Power 90.
Fit test:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/pdf/p90x-fit-test.pdf
-Mike
May 02, 2011 @ 15:08:16
Hi, I am going to start using P90X. I am hoping to do the program with my fiance. The problem is, we only have one door way. I have shoulder troubles, so I was going to use the resistance bands. He would probably prefer the chin up bar thing for the door way. Can we use both in the same door way? The door way does not have a door. Otherwise, is there anyway to work around this by switching on and off each time we are supposed to do the chin ups? Maybe one time he does chin ups and I do something else and then we switch the next time?
May 02, 2011 @ 15:10:37
We only have one door way that you can still see the TV from that is. Should we just use a second door way?
Hello Danie,
to use the resistance bands, you would need to shut the door on the safety strap or which would be secured on the door hinges. So if your doorway doesn’t have a door, your bands wont work.
-Mike
Jun 01, 2011 @ 15:04:43
Can I use the P90x Chin-up bar on a hallway entrance that does not have an actual door or molding?
Hello Dan,
if you can screw in the brackets above the doorway trim, and if the handle bars can rest on the sides of the doorway, then yes. You don’t want to use a doorway that is too wide because when you get into your chin-ups, you don’t want to risk your chin-up bar “swaying” forward and back as you are using it because this could cause the brackets to come lose.
-Mike
Jul 02, 2011 @ 10:19:58
iam 350lbs, male…..do you recommend me to do the p90x for weight loss ?
Hello Billy,
P90X is great for weight loss. If that is your main concern and you don’t really want to start to build up muscle just yet, I would do the lean approach. You will find this and two other ways to do the P90X within the P90X fitness guide included with your P90X.
-Mike
Jul 05, 2011 @ 21:35:34
my main concern is to lose weight and not be flabby ,and also do you recomend it for 350lb man ?
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Dec 02, 2011 @ 03:20:24
[...] How to modify P90X Chin-Up Bar routines with Resistance BandsJul 10, 2008 … Resistance Bands are the answer! Sure, you’re already using them for all those other exercises and moves so you know how handy they can … [...]
Mar 04, 2012 @ 16:03:30
(I would only recommend this for women.) I have actually found the resistance bands to work perfectly for me in place of the pull up bar. I live in a studio apartment and my landlord would have a fit if I installed that bar over my door. So instead, I take the bands, place them over the top of my restroom door and shut it. They stay in place for me during all of the exercises. Another reason why this is easy for me is because my place is so small, I can turn my tv around to face the area I am in and still see the entire workout. Deciding to start p90x has really been a life changing decision for me. I never realized how depressed and weak I felt until I started this program. It has not only effected me physically but emotionally as well. I say, do whatever you have to do to get your butt in shape. If you can’t do the bar, then you can’t do the bar. Just do not let it be an excuse to skip that part of the routine. P90x is successful because it has an over balance for every part of your body.