Is P90X a great system? Absolutely. Does P90X really work? You bet it does! Then why is it that some people just aren’t getting the results they want? What separates these folks from the thousands of amazing P90X success stories you hear online?
Well what we’ve found through feedback and discussions from our users is that people are making some pretty common mistakes that tend to lead to some NOT so amazing results. So without further ado let me introduce…
“THE 7 COMMON P90X Pitfalls”
#1 LACK OF COMMITMENT
This is a big one. P90X is no walk in the park. So many people fail right away due to a lack of commitment. You have to be committed—wholeheartedly!
Solution: Remember your goals
- Identify your goals, you know what they are. You may not like what you’re seeing in the mirror now. You may be looking to get the body of your dreams, you may even be looking to get your cholesterol down!
- Write your goals down on paper and tape it to your wall. Make them the background on your computer desktop or your cell phone.
- P90X Does it Work? Yes, but you’ll need to make your goals your fuel to succeed!
#2 LACK OF MOTIVATION
Will there be times when you feel like the last thing you want to do is your P90X workout? Oh Yeah! In fact one of the hardest times , when it comes to staying motivated will be the very first week! If you’re not motivated you’re in for disappointment.
Solution: Find a workout buddy
- If you have a friend or family member that wants to do P90X with you, you’ll be much more likely to stick to the program. That doesn’t mean that person has to be right there in the living room working out beside you, although that’s even better if they can!
- If you and a friend get on the same schedule with P90X you can call, text, email, or Facebook each other everyday to make sure you’re staying on course!
- Being accountable to someone and having a team approach can really make a major difference!
#3 NOT HAVING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
P90X Does It Work? Yes but you’d be surprised how many folks buy P90X without ever asking the question “what exercise equipment is required for P90X.” P90X doesn’t require a world-class gym, but you will need some gear and there are some highly recommended items to help you get the best possible results right out the gate!
Solution: Be informed! Here’s what you need…
Dumbbells or Resistance Bands (or both) are an absolute must. You won’t be able to do the P90X workouts without them!
Pull-ups are part of the program too, you’ll need either the P90X Chin-up bar or opt for the Resistance bands with the Upgrade kit option for modified band-style pull-ups. Click the upgrade kit for details on this…
Now these are optional, but any avid P90Xer will tell you that to really build your chest and arms you’ll want to pick up a pair of push-up stands. We have 2 options: the cheaper P90x Pushup Stands and the deluxe PowerStands
A mat is also optional but highly recommended. You’ll be be on the floor for a lot of P90X routines and when you’re not on the floor you’ll be coming down from a jump. In both scenarios you’re going to want something between you and floor to help absorb pressure and impact. Not to mention these are also great to prevent you from slipping and sweating all over your beautiful carpet! We’ve got 2 options our Yoga Monster Mat, and our P90X Plyomentrics Mat. They are different so click for details.
#4 NOT TAKING ADVANTAGE OF P90X NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
So many people either are unaware or simply don’t understand the tremendous benefits of the supplements that were specifically designed for P90X. And guess what—they’re missing out on better results!
Solution: Be informed! Here’s what’s recommended…
Sports science studies show that there’s a 1 hour window of opportunity right after your workout where your body is screaming for essential nutrients. If available these nutrients have a MAJOR impact on muscle recovery and GROWTH! P90X Recovery Drink Formula was designed for just this purpose and can make a world of difference in your results. Be sure to click and read the details. Out of all of our supplements this one is by far the most significant.
#5 BAD TIME MANAGEMENT
We all have busy schedules. From work to family to friends—life can be crazy! Those who don’t have a plan never get the results they’re after.
Solution: Make a schedule
- Make your schedule right now! Figure out a time slot that will work everyday where you can reasonably block out 45 minutes to an hour and set it in stone!
- P90xers from our blog tend to recommend doing their workouts in the morning and we tend to agree. You get up, you get your workout in for the day and your done! You’re free to carry on with all of life’s hectic demands and not only that you get the added bonus of having a boost of energy and clarity that will propel you throughout your day! P90X does it work? Yes but you have to manage your time.
#6 NOT CHANGING YOUR DIET
You’d be shocked to hear how many people ask “If I don’t follow the Nutrition Plan, will I still get the same results?” Well…no! Can some people still get really good results on their own diet plan? It’s possible, but you need to know what you’re doing.
If you already pay close attention to what you eat and know how to adjust your current diet to account for the intensity that the P90X workouts will bring, then maybe…
But chances are most people are probably not eating right in the first place, and would either eat too much or not enough of the right foods if left to their own devices.
Solution: Follow the P90X Nutrition Plan!
- P90X includes a comprehensive Nutrition Plan. It takes the guess work out of what to eat and when
- Just stick to the plan!
#7 GETTING DISCOURAGED
A lot of people start to get discouraged when they don’t see results IMMEDIATELY! You have to remember this is NOT an overnight thing. Does P90X work? Yes but some of us will be very much out of shape and overweight when we start, perhaps even coming from a place where exercise wasn’t even part of our lives at all! You have to be realistic.
This is a process and a lifestyle change. P90X works but it’s not instantaneous! Also, don’t let the scale fool you, muscle weighs more than fat. Often times you’ll being looking better and probably loosing inches but the scale says otherwise!
Solution: Stay positive, be realistic use the right tools!- Be patient. The results will come!
- We’re all different, some will see results in the first 2 weeks but most see the big changes around week 8
- Don’t let the scale play tricks with you get a Body Fat Tester on day 1 to know your body fat changes at all times!
May 24, 2010 @ 05:48:38
Hello, I’m a 20 year old male and my entire life I’ve played competitive sports (hockey, rugby, soccer) and I think it’s safe to say that I’ve been in good shape my entire life. I’m 6″0 165 pounds and no matter how much or little I eat, or how frequently I workout I don’t seem to be getting the results that I would like. It seems like I begin the program and achieve some results, but after the initial changes to my body not many more seem to take place. I live a busy life so it’s hard to follow the diet program to a T, but I try my best to eat healthy and make sure that my diet has tons of protein in it.
What I would like to know is if I can hinder my results by eating too much and eating right before bed?
YES! Well, eating too much of the wrong foods of course. The P90X meal plan does not by any means leave your hungry. Some people have actually complained that there was too much food to eat!
Eating after 7 or so, or less than 3 hours before you go to bed can hurt your weight loss efforts. You need time to digest and metabolize.
P90X just might be what you need to overcome that fitness plateau. The workouts are switched up every now and then to keep your body guessing and in that initial state where you actually do get results that you were talking about.
Give it a try!
-Mike
May 27, 2010 @ 15:25:39
Hey I’m a 16 year old I’m about 5’5 and weigh about 175!and I got my p90x on the mail the other day and I wanted to know if I eat the food suggestions on page 15 or something like that haha but I wanted to know if I will still get great results
Hey Rudy,
if you follow the nutrition plan as closely as you can, you will get better results no doubt, than if you don’t.
-Mike
Jun 02, 2010 @ 00:50:28
hey staff I have a question I’m 18 5’11 and 155 lbs and I want to build muscle and get ripped and I’m dedicated to p90x but doing yoga and all these cardio exercises doesn’t seem like it will get me ripped. And with the program weeks 1-3 u only do chest and back once a week how does that get u buff?
Hey Nick,
you actually do a back workout every week, apart from the recovery weeks. There is chest and back, back and biceps, and legs and back, and many more resistance workout included with P90X. You need to do either a cardio or stretching (Yoga) routine in between to give your muscles a break and time to repair. It’s really not that much cardio. Just be sure to maximize your efforts on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday when you do resistance. Keep your weight heavy and your reps low if you want to build bulk.
-Mike
Jun 02, 2010 @ 23:04:07
Hi, I’m 5’3 250 I have not started the system yet but I am starting next week. How long do you think it will take for me to see results if I follow everything to a T. I have been doing excercises like Zumba, Tae Bo, and Regular Aerobics. Will this really work for me before the summer is over?
Hey Cheryl,
some people will see weight loss in the first week, just because of the drastic change in in diet and activity levels. Some people who might be in ok shape to begin with might start to see results around week 8. It all depends on where you are at in terms of fitness level and weight at the start. At some point during the 90 days, you will start to see results if you follow the diet and stick to the diet.
-Mike
Jun 07, 2010 @ 20:17:20
Hello, I’m just about to start the P90x workout and I’m wonder how well this will for football? I’m 6,5 and 213 pounds. I’m really pumped to start this with my brother.
Hi Jacob,
it can help with your speed, flexibility, strength, and stamina, so yes!! This program covers many areas of fitness that can be helpful to an athlete. You can set your own goals with this program which makes it great for all sorts of people.
-Mike
Jun 09, 2010 @ 15:56:06
I finished my first round of P90X and started my second round of it. I feel alot better. I only lost 7 pounds and am still trying to get rid of a spare tire. Any suggestions???
Hi Dwight,
are you following the nutrition plan?
-Mike
Jun 09, 2010 @ 23:22:39
I am planning to buy P90X but I was wondering about the Nutrition guide. I’m not allowed to cook at my university so I try to eat healthy foods offered at the cafeteria area. Will it be ok if I stay with my normal meal plan that involves a on a regularly basis mostly veggies, meat(mostly either chicken, fish, or red), carbs( mostly from cereal), and vitamin supplement?
Hi Jon,
you can still try and follow the plan by using the portions approach. There is a list of approved foods and portion sizes without specific meals put together. This way you can eat in your cafeteria and use the nutrition plan as a guide to what you should choose.
-Mike
Jun 11, 2010 @ 14:24:40
My husband and I already done with P90X and we will be moving to the next level P180X (results are satisfactory ) my question is about my plan of running a marathon…since I am doing the intense work out already do you think it wont be fatal to my health if I would be running 1 to 2 hours more per day?
Hello Bernie,
you can add running to your P90X routine to help with your marathon training as long as you have the energy to do so. You might have to make a little adjustment in your caloric intake.
-Mike
Jun 14, 2010 @ 14:51:07
I have been doing weightwatchers and lost weight with that. It is all about portions so if I was to follow the weightwatchers plan instead of your nutrition guide will that be okay?
Hi Jacklyn,
you can try it. If you feel you have enough energy and are getting a comparable balance in nutritional values as the nutrition plan would give you, go for it! I am actually curious as to how a separate diet plan would work with P90X. A lot of people are into weight watchers and nutrisystem.
-Mike
Jun 15, 2010 @ 23:31:11
Hello. I want to say first that I am not aiming to lose weight per se, just to get in better physical shape. Someone mentioned on a facebook page that this was a good program, but from what I read, P90X just seems like it’s probably going to be way too hard for me, and I know that there’s no way I’ll stick with it if it makes me miserable. I’m a very recently reformed smoker, so working out is hard for me anyway because I simply don’t have the lung capacity after smoking for years.
All of that being said, I’m about 5’6, I weigh somewhere in the neighborhood of 125-130 lbs, but I do (contrary to popular belief) have little ‘love handles’ that no matter how small I get seem to NEVER go away, and I have pretty big thighs considering how small my ankles and calves are. I’m a vegetarian, I work on my feet an insane amount daily/weekly, I do have time to work out for an hour or so everyday most days BUT there is no way I will cook anything that takes longer than about 20 mins to make. I am not creative in the kitchen, at all, pretty much the only thing I ever cook at my house is ramen noodles and kraft mac n cheese unless you can make it in the microwave.
SO.
I seriously doubt p90x is right for me, BUT I was wondering if any of the other related products on this website (Power 90, 10 min tariner, slim in 6, etc) may be a good alternative? OR if maybe I’m wrong and p90x would still be ok? I know hardly anything about it so…educate me. I just want to know before I waste $[x amount of money] on something if there’s a better alternative.
Hello Regi,
the cooking and diet thing is going to be tough for your with any of these programs. I would start small if you think you can’t keep up with P90X. Start with the 10 Minute Trainer. This way you can work out in 10 minute increments, up to three times per day if you want, and build up your strength and lungs to be able to tackle a more intense workout.
-MIke
Jun 17, 2010 @ 10:53:22
I am interested in getting the P90X program, but I have one main question. I live in an apartment complex on the 2nd floor. Is there a lot of running and jumping involved? I would have trouble doing this in my apartment because I would have my neighbor below complaining. Any suggestions?
Neal
Hello Neal,
with Plyo, there is quite a bit of jumping! Most of the workouts start with a short warm-up that can involve jump-n-jacks. Most of these workouts can be taken to the gym or outside if you have your guides with you.
-Mike
Jun 21, 2010 @ 22:56:09
Hey,
I recently bought my P90X package… still en route. But I have read up on it alot to know it’s the right program for me. I’m short but a bit on the heavy side (5’4 – 200lbs). The thing about it is even when i was a lot smaller in size I was about 180lbs so I try not to pay too much attention to the weight. My problem is that now that I got a belly no matter how much dieting or strict exercise I do I see the signs everywhere else but my stomach…it might just go down a bit but that’s it and that frustrates me alot. Do you have a suggestion on how to apply the P90X system to target my stubborn belly fat?
Jun 22, 2010 @ 11:51:12
Hi, Im thinking about trying the P90X and so is my husband, however we have a 2month old baby at home, and I was wondering how long each day this work out requires?
Hi Andrea,
the workouts are about an hour long. Yoga is 90 minutes.
-Mike
Jun 22, 2010 @ 12:30:39
I keep posting and for some reason they don’t go thru but I’ll try again. I’m 5’4″ and on the heavy side.(200lbs). The thing about it is that even when I was younger and a lot smaller I was always kinda heavy for my height (around 180lbs) so I try not to take on weight too much. The thing about it is that now that I have a belly I can’t seem to get rid of it no matter how much exercise and dieting I have done ovr the last couple years. Is there any particular approach or focus I can apply to the P90X package that will help me maximise on getting rid of this extremely stubborn belly fat once and for all…. I miss my abs from my teenage years.
Hello Trini,
I would do the classic approach. You might not want to get bulky, which you don’t have to, but adding muscle to your body can help you lose fat. Add that to fat burning cardio and a balanced nutrition plan, and you will lose weight and get in shape.
Side note: building large muscle groups, like the back and the legs, can help slim you belly because adding muscle helps to burn fat all over your body.
-Mike
Jun 24, 2010 @ 13:24:49
Hi I just completed my first round of p90x and now im 5 7 and weight 120 pounds. I want to start round 2 but i want to have a perfect diet. Is the meal plan approach the best diet to follow in the p90x nutrition guide? will it give me the best results out of all the other 3 nutrition approaches. and also i really want to get rid of some of my lower body fat to show my lower abs before summer ends but since im skinny and really want to gain muscle, Should i start my round 2 of p90x with the Fat shredder approach or the Enduance maximizer?
Hello Perck,
the meal plan is probably the best of the three because there is really no room for error if you follow the schedule and recipes. I do have to warn you, many people think it’s too much food to eat and some of the recipes are for way more than 1 person. Don’t feel like you have to eat everything!! Eat until you are full. I would start with phase 2 of the nutrition plan.
-Mike
Jun 25, 2010 @ 01:36:42
Thanks for your answer. Would the phase 2 nutriton plan help me burn of that extra fat to show off my lower abs in less than 30 days? Oh and would you recomend the p90x custom meal plan that beachbody offers over the p90x phase 2 nutrition plan?
Hi Perck,
the only reason why I suggested to start with phase 2 is because you have already been trough the program and phase 1 might leave you feeling wasted. You can try phase 1 to help you lose more fat, but don’t stay in that phase if you don’t have that much energy. Phase 2 is a happy medium. You are still seriously limiting carbs, which can greatly contribute to belly fat, but you are eating enough to give you energy for your workouts.
-Mike
Jul 04, 2010 @ 12:11:58
I’m halfway though the 3rd phase of P90X. Three weeks to go. I’m 52, 5’10″. My starting weight was 180.
I have had to modify the program. I can’t work out on weekends because I work long hours on those days. I quickly discovered after the first two weeks that after working hard Mon-Wed, I didn’t have the energy to work out on Thursday. Now I work out Mon & Tues, Thurs & Fri. I can’t do the most strenuous jumping exercises because I live in an apartment building. Also, I took one week off in between because I travelled.
Nevertheless, I’m very satisfied with the results so far. I have lost 8 pounds (now at 172) and 3-1/2″ on my waist. I am fitter than I was in my 30s, and I have stamina again.
I cut out all empty calories, and followed the diet plan insofar as the calorie cound is concerned.
People who haven’t seen me in months say that I look great.
That’s awesome Geoffrey! Some people are scared to modify the workout and make it their own because they don’t think they will get any results. Of course you will get the best possible results if you follow the plan exactly, but not everyone has the time for that!!
Jul 05, 2010 @ 23:27:41
Hi, I’m interested in getting P90X. What I want more is to lose weight (stomach area). Does the lean work as well as the classic? or which one is better to lose the belly fat?
Hello Elizabeth,
if you want to focus on weight loss, go with the lean approach. Belly fat can be stubborn, but with the right balance of nutrition (follow the nutrition guide) and fat burning cardio, you can get rid of it.
-Mike
Jul 06, 2010 @ 10:12:23
I ordered the P90x program about a month ago and have been doing the workouts off and on with my other workout routine since I received it. I’ve already lost 45 lbs. over the last 8 months by eating right and working out but I have 25 more pounds to go before getting down to my goal weight. I’m ready to “officially” start the program (doing it every day for 90 days and following the food guide like it was designed) but I’m trying to decide which program to do–classic, lean, or doubles. I don’t want to bulk up because my frame is pretty small but I still have some weight to lose. Any suggestions?
Hello L.J.,
the classic approach wont bulk you up unless you want that. It’s all about weight choices and modification. Use lighter weights and keep your reps high. Instead of using the chin-up bar, use the resistance bands and upgrade kit. This will help keep the resistance lower and you will be able to do more reps to keep your back muscles lean.
If your main focus is weight loss, go with lean. If you wouldn’t mind gaining some strength and improving athletic abilities, go with the classic approach.
-Mike
Jul 06, 2010 @ 10:25:19
I ordered the P90x program about a month ago and have been doing the workouts off and on with my other workout routine since I received it. I’ve already lost 45 lbs. over the last 8 months by eating right and working out but I have 25 more pounds to go before getting down to my goal weight. I’m ready to “officially” start the program (doing it every day for 90 days and following the food guide like it was designed) but I’m trying to decide which program to do–classic, lean, or doubles. I don’t want to bulk up because my frame is pretty small but I still have some weight to lose. Any suggestions?
Jul 06, 2010 @ 11:23:44
During a recent move, our p90x nutrition guide was lost. Is there a way to obtain another one – perhaps by email?
Hello Joy,
please contact our customer service department for help in obtaining a replacement copy of the nutrition plan:
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/customer-service.php
-Mike
Jul 06, 2010 @ 14:45:31
Is it okay if i can pick one meal from the meal plan approach and use that until the next phase?
Jul 06, 2010 @ 14:48:20
like for instance can i pick day 6 meals from phase 1 and use those same meals until the next phase?
Hello Perk,
if that will help you to stick with the plan, go for it! I do find it easier to stick to a diet when there are set things that I eat. If I have to think of what I’m going to eat next and if it will work with the plan, that’s too much work for me!
-Mike
Jul 09, 2010 @ 12:38:38
I’m 5-10 220 pound male, looking too lose some weight. The problem i’m having is….not losing any weight,and constantly sore to a degree. I don’t want to get any bigger as far as bulk, therefore i was doing the lean routine….is that best option for me? What would be a realistic amount of time, as far as weight loss or results…..I don’t follow the meal plan, but i do watch what i eat. I’ve been doing the workout routine for about a month now,not sure if that is a realistic amount of time….your help will be much appreciated….
Hello Jamey,
I recommend that you follow the Nutrition plan if you want to lose weight. If you are giving 100% and doing these workouts everyday are aren’t losing any weight, I would say your diet is to blame. With the lean approach, you will gain some lean muscle, but I don’t think enough to counter balance your fat loss to make appear that you aren’t losing any weight on the scale. The Nutrition plan really makes a difference. Try it!
-Mike
Jul 10, 2010 @ 18:50:02
why are people keep swithchin around the phases, i thought its called p90x phase one 30 days phase 2 30 days and so on, so you said if i want to build mas i only have to do p90x for 60 days cuz im skippin fatshredder
Hello Chris,
the fat shredder is a phase in the Nutrition Plan. There are three phases of the workouts as well, but you don’t have to do the nutrition phases and the workout phases in sync. You can do which ever phase of the nutrition plan you choose at any time. So you could do the fat shredder phase for the full 90 days if you wanted. The workouts phases should not be skipped or done out of order. So if you want to skip phase 1 of the nutrition plan, that just means you will be in phase 2 of the nutrition plan for a large portion of the 90 days.
-Mike
Jul 10, 2010 @ 20:38:53
i just finished my first month of p90x and i never reallyy ate healthy an im still seein good results, is this my genetics taking effect???
Could be!
Jul 12, 2010 @ 05:15:36
Am I too fat for this program? I am 33 years old 6′ tall 265 lbs . I know I can’t do a pull up or chin up. All the people I see in the infomerical (sp?) seem to be a former Athlete or military personel. I also read that P90x has the “highest drop-out rates imaginable not because it does not work (it does), but because it’s hard and …”
This program sounds kinda hardcore to me any suggestions?
Hello Christopher.
There is a P90X fitness test to see if you can handle this program, but there is more to it than being able to get through the workouts. You have to be able to commit to this program. Some people do jump into this and think it can’t be that hard, but it is! Or some people just don’t have that motivation they need to do this every day on their own at home. A person who has actually stuck with the program for the entire 90 days and followed the nutrition plan and workout schedule will get great results. Some people lose more than others, gain more muscles than others, but in my opinion, your results are only as great as the effort you put into this. So first, take the fitness test to see if you can do the exercises. Then really sit down and think about wether or not you can commit to working out 6 days a week for an hour or more and eating healthy every day.
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/pdf/p90x-fit-test.pdf
-Mike
Jul 13, 2010 @ 01:01:26
Hi, my fiance just bought me P90X and I’m pretty excited to get started, but nervous – here’s my situation: I’ve been running a few days a week for the past few years; during that time I’ve even trained for three marathons. When I’m marathon training I naturally up the weekly mileage, but lately – whether or not I’m in training mode – my body doesn’t seem to respond to the exercise and rather than lose weight I just seem to be plateau’ing at 130 (I’m 5’4″). If I start to do P90X will I lose all the cardiovascular endurance I’ve built up? If running hasn’t helped me to bulk up or lose weight – how can P90X make a difference? I’m open to the experience, but apprehensive….
Hello Amanda,
P90X will certainly give your body a surprise and you will start to see a change. P90X, however, wont match up to your marathon training as far as a cardiovascular workout, so I would keep running as well. Many people who have the time do this. P90X and running seems to be a popular combination.
-Mike
Jul 14, 2010 @ 02:56:19
hi my name is ryan i live in peterborough ontario canada . I baught the dvd set and one pair of dumb bells is that all i need because i cant afford alot . tony horton says all you need is a pair of dumb bells . my bedroom is a good size but doesnt have a door that can hold a pull up chin up bar.
so i improvised and i do the cardio and all exercises whitch i have the equipment for but i do try hard. also i can only jump so high because of my cealing. thats not to say i dont do them i just haveto make sure im not leaping to high. i am having tough time getting off cocacola any advice its wrecking my results. i am a biginner and have never seen a gym before in my life so its really intimidating for me . my big question is this my parents baught me the rest of the series for christmas plus 10 minute trainer and insanity and revabs recently. would you recommend i start with p90 bootcamp or 10 minute trainer or something before i work up to p90x. anybodys advice is welcome . sorry cant spell well. remember never worked out ever before never seen a gym.
Helly Ryan.
I would start out with the 10 minute trainer. 10 minutes a day is a good introduction to working out. Then start stacking them and do 3 10 minute workouts per day. When you are comfortable with working out and are feeling good and ready to take it up a notch, I would go with Power 90. This will give you more dramatic results and will help you bring your fitness level up. By the time you finish power 90, you will be ready to start P90X. Then you have the opportunity to completely transform your body! P90X is a great program that has given so many people amazing results. Insanity it tough. It’s crazy. Get through P90X and you can tackle Insanity. You still might struggle because the cardio with Insanity is, well, INSANE! P90X is more of a resistance training program. Get through P90X and Insanity and you have all my respect! It’s awesome that you have a wide variety of programs. Start small and work your way up! I would do Rev Abs in between the P90X and Insanity. You can give yourself a year round schedule with all the programs you have! P90X, Rev Abs, Insanity.
Good luck to you!
-Mike
Jul 15, 2010 @ 11:51:52
To the staff: Im 5″10 and 185 pounds…. I want to lose 10 – 15 pounds and gain more mass. Ive been on P90x for one week and I LOVE IT ! Ive made it throught each workout to the end but of course had to take more breaks and could not get all the reps as you guys on the tape but that will come in time. I just wanted to encourage all those on the program or thinking of doing it that it is an excellent program. Im eating so much better now that i am following the portion guide and i feel alot better even in one week. Im 47 yrs old and its a nice change from the gym. I cant wait to see all my results come the 90 days and more…..Thanks for the program!
Jul 22, 2010 @ 01:48:40
Hello, I purchased the P90X about a year ago, I didn’t follow the nutrition advice, but I am committed today 7/22/2010. I also noticed a worksheet for Upper Plus, ABS/Core Plus and the total body Plus, Is their another DVD that goes with those particular exercises? or do I just
half to remember them from the Chest, Shoulder, Tricep and back DVD’s? Please let me know at your sonest, thanks.
Hi Cathrene,
It sounds like you have the wrong worksheets! Those are the worksheets for P90X PLUS. You should have 13 DVD with the P90X.
-Mike
Jul 23, 2010 @ 19:27:55
I’m getting ready to start P90X. I want to follow the program as closely as possible, but I had a question about the nutrition plan. It calls for 5 meals a day with the last meal coming no later than 3hrs. before bed. If I get hungry (which I highly doubt, the portions are pretty generous!) can I maybe eat some low-fat cottage cheese before bed or is this not a good idea? Thanks for your time and help!! Another soon-to-be P90Xer getting ready to BRING IT!!
Hey Bryan,
it wont hurt to have a little bit of something before bed. Nothing too heavy, sugary or fatty. You body doesn’t digest in the same way at night as it does when you are awake.
-Mike
Jul 23, 2010 @ 22:57:54
Hello, and thank you for P90X! I’m 48 and I can bring it (although not always pretty)! I’m starting Block 3 on Sunday and I feel great. Endurance, balance and mostly energy. Im one of those obsessive scale gals, and haven’t seen much movment there, but my tape measure tells a different story, I’ve lost a total of 15 inches. Have fallen into a good heathly eating routine, never realized how much I loved carbs until I had to count them. One question I have that I haven’t seen much on is coffee and diet soda *my weakness*. Can you address? Looking forward to round two..
Hello,
there seems to be a debate over diet soda. Yes it is free of fat, sugar, carbs and calories, but you tend to drink more diet soda than regular. Also, some say that having too much, and I don’t know what constitutes as too much, artificial sugar, when you do actually eat regular sugar, you body isn’t sure how to process it or not as effectively. If you have to have it, one a day shouldn’t hurt. As far as coffee…….I am in that same boat honey! I can’t live without it! When I first started P90X, I tried to switch to tea, but that was a horrible experience!!! We are all different and have different weaknesses! You don’t want to totally cut out everything that gives you pleasure while doing an exercise program, because you wont want to finish! Reduce, use in moderation, scale it back. Omit totally, that would be best, but let’s be real here! Try using fat free creamer and maybe omit the sugar. Flavored creamers are usually pretty sweet. See what works best for you! The “bad” part of coffee is the stuff we add to it. Black coffee will not hurt your results what so ever!
-Mike
Jul 27, 2010 @ 13:23:57
hi, i just purchased the program to get n better shape because i am a recruit for the marines. i way 191 and am 5’11 and want to drop down to 175 and get alot more physically fit i run five days a week push ups ,sit ups, and so on … but it seems like i need something more and this program sounds like its wut kinda workouts i need to get use to doing anyways …. but since i already do most of the stuff in this program will it have good results for me… and is it ok to use protien shake 30 min after my workout …. and to still do my runs five days a week or should i cut that back
Hello Aaron,
I have actually come across many military personnel that use P90X while on duty and to get ready for duty or boot camp. P90X is great because it not only works, but at a level you want to work. You can lightly go through the program, not killing yourself with weights, but still getting through everything and eating right, and you will lose weight and get stronger. OR, you can be a beast and really push yourself with weights and max out your intensity levels. Because you already work out and are probably is good shape, this is what you will have to do. Protein shakes and bars are a huge help if you want to focus on strength and adding definition. For your purposes, keep running. With P90X you will be doing cardio, but only 2 times per week which might not be enough for your training. Many people add running in addition to the P90X workouts.
-Mike
Jul 28, 2010 @ 00:38:10
Hi,
I just started the nutrition part of the P90x program. I have yet to start the exercise portion. I am a mom of two young kids and still nursing my 11month old daughter. I eat pretty healthy already (lots of fruits and veggies and lean proteins), but i love carbs and feel hungry without them. Today i followed the program to a T (im on the 1800 calorie diet). I filled all of my portion requirements and food groups today. . But i was still hungry between lunch and dinner and after dinner and am still ravenous. Even with the overload of proteins I still feel hungry and deprived. All i could think about today was food. I typically eat more carbs than protein, but they are healthy whole grain and whole wheat carbs. But I am struggling with only being allowed one serving a day. Is there anything I can do to adjust the diet? I am also concerned abut proper nutrition as I am still nursing my daughter. I want to lose the belly fat and tone up the rest of my body, but don’t have time to be so stringent with the nutrition plan. I just found it very time consuming and depriving. What can I do? My husband is on the plan too and having a hard time eating all the Level 2 calories he needs.
Hello Priscilla,
Taking away all those carbs can be tough at first. I felt really hungry the first week of the program because of the amount of carbs I used to eat. After a while you will get used to it and wont feel so hungry all the time. If you don’t want to put yourself through all that, add back in 1 serving of carbs, whole grain of course, and see if you can take it away after some time. You don’t want to be totally miserable while trying to stick to an exercise program!
-Mike
Aug 02, 2010 @ 02:34:52
Hi,
im 32, 6’2″ and really outta shape (350lbs). the question i have is am i to outta shape for P90X, or is there a different program for me to get started on before i use the P90X.
Hello John,
Power 90 is a good place to start! There are a lot of the same ideas as the P90X, just not as intense and works as a great stepping stone!
http://www.extremebodyworkout.com/power90-products.php
-Mike
Aug 03, 2010 @ 13:32:26
hi
im 15, 5’8 and weight 155 i want to start p90x next week but i would like to know how long would it take me to have a six pack. Does p90x helps for conditioning.
Hello Mike,
getting a six pack can take some time depending on how much belly fat you are starting out with. This program will melt a lot of fat off of your body and give you plenty of opportunities to work those ab muscles. You also have to be sure to follow the nutrition plan. The purpose of the plan is to give you exactly what you need to be successful with P90X and nothing more. Extra carbs not burned off by exercise turns into fat that will most likely be stored as belly fat. Don’t just concentrate on the ab workout, working large muscle groups such as the legs or back can help reduce all over body fat more quickly than cardio exercise alone. Put 110% into your workout for 90 days and there is a good chance you will come out with a nice 6 pack.
-mike
Aug 03, 2010 @ 13:41:06
hi
ia 15 and weight 155 i am going to start p90x next week but i would like to know how long would it take me to have a six pack.
See above
Aug 04, 2010 @ 12:47:09
I have a kind of silly question. I’m about to start this and really want that tight body that I’m pretty close to already (5’1″, 106lbs), and by the looks/sounds of it, that’s what I’ll get and get back into better shape (I’m anemic, so any help on getting in good shape (not for looks, but like endurance, fitness and all), which is great. But could I lose my breast size? I hear pretty often that if women work out hard core, they will lose breast size, thusly a lot of female swimmers and runners not having a lot in that area. Could that happen to me? I am actually happy with mine
Hello Raven,
it’s possible! Depending on where the fat usually melts from first from YOUR body. Some women do lose fat in their breasts when they lose weight. It just depends! Some women have an incredibly flat stomach and a large lower half so it’s a personal thing.
-Mike
Aug 04, 2010 @ 22:54:33
I am 6’0 and weigh 190-200 Ibs. I do P90X. I feel the difference like I have more energy and Im more athletic but its not showing up. I still look the same (on the chubby side) and Im not losing weight. I cant stick to the diet because Im only 15 and I dont have the money to buy all those foods but I try to eat as healthy as possible with the foods we have at home. Seeing that I wasnt getting appearance results I stopped doing all the strength training exercises and do the cardio ones. Is that reasonable? Try to lose the fat and weight first before building up the muscle?
Hello RLPM,
sticking to the diet at your age can be a challenge. Take a look at the portions approach and try to compile some of the meals from what you have in your house. You might find it’s not that difficult to follow the portions approach as it is to follow the meal plan.
Not doing the resistance is probably hurting your progress. Building muscle burns fat, and working on larger muscle groups helps to strengthen your core and tighten up the midsection which allows you to work harder. You don’t have to use heavy weights to bulk up, you can use lighter weights and do more reps for a leaner result. The purpose of P90X is to break you away from doing the same old thing every day. Doing cardio everyday wont get you very far. BRING THE RESISTANCE BACK!!
-Mike
Aug 05, 2010 @ 20:26:25
First off just wanted to thank Mike for answering my question! I have another one for you. After I workout I immediately have my recovery drink, but I was wondering how long after the recovery drink can I begin to eat whole foods again? I have been waiting 2 hours after the recovery drink to eat again. I have been following the nutrition guide exactly as outlined eating every 2-3 hours. I know that we are not supposed to have anything except for the recovery drink during that hour after working out. Is waiting 2 hours after the recovery drink to long to eat or should I just wait an hour and then eat? Thanks again for your help!! P90X is awesome!!
Hello Bryan,
I would just wait at least an hour after the workout to eat a meal. You can certainly wait 2 hours if that’s what you prefer, but the general rule is to wait at least an hour.
-Mike
Aug 16, 2010 @ 13:55:51
It seems like this program is more for people who are already lean, to get ripped. Have you seen results of a person with a pretty big gut lose it? Obviously you can’t go from a beer belly to a 6 pack, but have you seen large improvements?
Hey Charlie,
I have seen people lose flab and look much better in the end. The outcome is effected by the condition your body is in to begin with. A leaner person will end up more ripped than a person with a higher body fat percentage. Of course there are many other factors that effect your result, but any person completing this program will end up looking better! Here is an example of a female who got real results. She wasn’t super heavy and she wasn’t an exercise freak. She did have some issues along the way and wasn’t 100% strict on the diet. I am showing you this example because she got great results as an average person trying her hardest, but not being perfect. Males tend to get more dramatic results, so just think what you can do for yourself with P90X!
When you click on the link, you will see her best after pictures. Then click on the link that says “before pictures” to see what she looked like before P90X.
http://www.90dayreview.com/
-Mike
Aug 19, 2010 @ 06:16:34
I have a friend who has lost about 160 pounds (through exercise and diet, yay!) But she has a lot of excess skin from the weight loss, is p90x a good way to get rid of that flabby skin?
PS I am doing the p90x lean program right now and love it!
Aug 21, 2010 @ 20:27:16
I HAVE A QUESTION, WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLASSIC, LEAN, AND DOUBLES. IF YOU ANSWER MY QUESTION I WOULD REALLY HELP ME.
Hello Christian,
the Classic approach is the original format. Lean is a modified “classic” format that uses more cardio than resistance to concentrate weight loss. Doubles is the same as the “classic” approach with EXTRA cardio workouts to boost weight loss.
So the names sort of explain how they work. Use the Lean approach if you main concern is weight loss. Use the Classic approach if you want to lose weight, gain muscle, get stronger and improve your overall athletic abilities. Use the Doubles approach if you want all those things from the Classic approach with extra cardio to help burn even more body fat.
I hope this helps!
-Mike
Aug 22, 2010 @ 14:22:48
Thank you, Mike. Could you tell me how much fat is burned by muscle?
Aug 22, 2010 @ 17:19:15
I am on a high Protein, low carb, low fat, low salt diet. A must since I had a gastric bypass. So I am losing weight but will plateau. Is this program going to work for me? I understand the confusing the muscle concept as I have worked out but tried every diet out there (Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Newtusystem and even one given me by a Dietician. I never lost and if I did I gained weight with no change in my BMI. That’s in weight loss or gain. Please no negativity on my choice.
Aug 22, 2010 @ 17:23:24
And no you cannot lose the extra skin only surgically, Kate. The skin is stretched and loses it’s elasticity after a few years. Especially if you are older. Women”s fat is just under the skin while men’s are deeper. That’s why we have cellulite. Grrrr
Aug 26, 2010 @ 00:36:14
Hi There,
I’m a little confused after receiving the power 90x DVD’s. I know there are different phases of the workout as well as different programs. I’m unsure which program to start and which phases I should do.
I am 125 lbs – I am generally petite but for this belly and flabby parts. I have had a little pot belly (overhanging) all my life. I would love to get rid of this belly weight without adding bulk.
So do I do the Classic (I don’t want to bulk up) as it has the FAT shredder which may be what I need for the belly fat – or do I just follow the Lean program in it’s entirity (I’d be horrified to just get toned and still have my belly). So which program do I complete or do I do different phases on different programs e.g. start with the classic phase 1 and do lean phase 2 and 3?
PLease help I want to start soon. Thanks!
Aug 26, 2010 @ 00:36:52
BTW – I am 36 and 5’2″
Aug 27, 2010 @ 20:31:12
im 22 years old im 5,9 and about 220 lbs i just got p90x but im not really liking the nutrition plan. Would i be able to lose pounds if all i do is drink water? Do not eat after 7 and eat 4 times a day?