With the end of summer looming ahead, many people are able to take a deep breath and focus a little more on themselves again.  The kids are back in school, vacations are over, the schedule is a little more predictable and you might be thinking about getting into better shape. 

If you spend much time in front of the TV, you have seen the infomercial for P90X.   The results are amazing and the success stories are motivating; could it be the workout for you?   Maybe.  Let me walk you through the decision.

P90X is definitely an extreme workout.  The introductory information cautions that this is not for beginners although I know people who start P90X that are in terrible shape!  And they finish it and have remarkable results.   So what kind of workout are you looking for?

 P90X consists of 12 different workouts arranged  in a 90 day schedule of 6 workouts a week averaging 75 minutes each day.   It includes a nutrition guide as well, for maximum results.  Most of the exercise segments are set up for each person to do until failure.   It’s a system that constantly introduces new moves to challenge your muscles and give you extraordinary results.   It requires commitment, determination and focus as well as a willingness to shrug off sore muscles for the first few weeks!

Should you get P90X?  Maybe, but ready on. 

P90X is the best known Beachbody workout due to its popularity but there are other workouts that are just as effective.  Power 90 was the X’s precursor with Tony Horton.  The basic “Boot Camp” series consists of 4 workouts of 30-45 minutes which include cardio and weight resistance training.  There are additional Power 90 workouts that can be purchased once these initial ones are mastered.  It’s challenging but not overwhelming and most fitness levels can jump right in.  

 ChaLEAN Extreme, by Chalene Johnson, produces of Turbo Jam and TurboFire if one of my favorites.  I have done all of these workouts  but I tend to prefer ChaLEAN Extreme.   The focus of this workout is to build lean muscle to help boost metabolism and burn fat.  It contains 14 workouts averaging 45 minutes a day and also includes a food guide.  I like this workout primarily because it’s easier to fit it in on busy days!   I also like the style which consists of very slow lifting and using a weight that is heavy enough to fail at 8-12 (depending on the month). 

Rev Abs is also a complete series of workouts that include cardio, core work and strength training.  The schedule is such that you have a variety of workouts that are modifiable but challenging which increase muscle mass, decrease body fat and strengthen the core.  The workouts are 30-45 minute with a 10-15 minute ab workout a few days a week added in. 

Beachbody has a wide selection of fitness dvd’s that consist of cardio conditioning and/or strength training.  There are some that are basic heavy weight lifting and some with great music and dancier moves for people who want fitness to be fun as well as effective.  So how do you decide?

All of these  various workouts are effective.  I’ve done most of them and have seen results with each one.  Beachbody workouts include the fitness  program, a food guide, online support with messge boards and a “success partner” from a coach, like me!   When deciding, you will want to assess your own commitment and determination.   Take into account how much time you have to devote consistently over a 3 month period.  You’ll also want to consider your own history of commitment.  Do you tend to follow through on projects?  Do you get easily discouraged?  Do you like challenge? 

You know yourself and your past history in fitness.  Choose something that you can work hard at and finish.  If you follow the program and are serious about the food you put in your mouth, you will have great results!  This will help your own confidence, increase your fitness level and give you the improved strength and endurance to attempt a more difficult workout. 

If you want more information, you can look through the Beachbody store at www.beachbodycoach.com/ChristieR and click on SHOP.  If you would like more guidance or suggestions, contact me and we can visit!

Now, it’s up to you to make the most important decision.  When are you going to start?