Does P90X Live Up to the Hype?
By now, you have all seen the infomercials for the P90x. They are famous for making the claim that you can attain a complete body transformation in just 90 workouts.
The big question, does it work?
After expecting this to be a big scam, I am actually surprised to tell you that it really does work. But that is… only if you do it.
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Pros |
Cons |
| The workouts work. You can make pretty dramatic changes if you do these workouts—as prescribed.
The exercises are straight forward and doable for most people who have experience working out. Most people report that Tony Horton (the instructor) is very motivating. For something this hard, it is great to have good motivator. You don’t need a lot of extra equipment or a spotter. Again, if the program is done as prescribed and your goal is to lean and defined – then this should do the job. It was hard to find a fitness trainer to say a bad word. |
You still have to “eat right” to come close to the results you see on TV
This is big time commitment. It is an hour a day of exercise and the yoga program is a whopping 90 minutes. Some of the moves may be too much for those who aren’t in good shape [however, they do show you modified moves] You need a pull-up bar for a lot of the sessions, you make the call. Some people report that Tony Horton can be a little annoying (but the majority like him) They up sell you their nutritional supplements on the DVDs which is a little much. You don’t need them. |
The Investment
P90X is expensive ($120.00), and the shipping is a whopping $19.95 with some bit about this being “Free” and “Express”. This part is definitely kind of scammy, but all of those television products do it. It must be part of the, “culture”
But, if you truly think you can commit to 90 days of craziness, don’t let that kind of thing stop you. The best thing to do is to find a good deal on eBay and Amazon.
However, If aren’t really gung ho, then the package is just going to gather dust.
The Real Key to Success: The Eating Plan
The package also includes a nutrition guide with meal plans, a workout calendar, a fitness plan and online support. They put you on a really strict diet, which is the real reason why people are losing so much weight!
The truth is, If you do the workouts and don’t follow the diet – you probably won’t lose any weight at all! The infomercial is slightly deceiving this way. I am not saying the workout isn’t great, but let’s be honest…
A Free Way to Lose Weight?
There is a great alternative to P90X that my pack loves. You might want to try these methods before committing to P90X (which is a big commitment). It’s a 100% free report I’ve put together that teaches you several proven methods to lose weight. In the Health Hound’s opinion, I would say that it’s a no-brainer not to at least give this free report a try.
Save Your Money! Download the Health Hound’s FREE Weight Loss Report!
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I want to thank you for the weight loss report . I started on it 2/23/11 as of today I have lost 23 lbs. and feel great ! I am exercising and lifting weights along with the clean eating. This is the first plan that has helped me keep losing and not crave anything like I always did on other eating plans. again thanks for getting me on the right path I am so happy I found your website!"
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My Investigation of “Belly Fat Free” By Josh Bezoni (A Critical Review) 
My Investigation of “The Diet Solution Program” by Isabel De Los Rios
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I really enjoy it. It kicks your butt, but the results come quickly so it’s easy to stay motivated. I couldn’t complete the first week because I was so incredibly sore (and I was working out with weights and doing cardio for months before starting it). The difference between week one and week two as far as difficulty is concerned was huge. I could actually complete the routines, so it gets easier and more enjoyable as you go. I was lifting a lot of weight at the gym, but I didn’t realize how weak I was until I tried to do these routines. If you’re trying to improve your performance on the court or on the field, this is a must EVEN if you lift a lot of weight and do cardio already. There’s a musco-skeletal strength, flexibility and balance that you develop with this program that weight lifting and cardio don’t give you. I read a lot of reviews by bodybuilders who knock this program, but I guaranty 99% of bodybuilders out there couldn’t finish week one either. Most bodybuilders look overweight, unhealthy and unfit and you know what? That’s because they are? I didn’t realize it until I started doing this program. Bodybuilding is not a healthy lifestyle. This kind of workout will keep you fit, strong and athletic well into your old age. A bodybuilder will be doubled up in injuries and stooped over like Arnold without incorporating a program like this.
I am 45 in three weeks and have been using the P90X as my primary workout since June. I do not follow the diet plan; however, I do try to maintain a healthy diet (some days better than others). I have only lost 4-5 pounds but have lost over 4 inches from my gut and have much more energy and stamina if you know what I mean… I am not there yet, but I love the program and just started week one over again. Tony show’s three ways to perform each exercise, to include using bands vs pull ups, push up from your knees, yoga blocks, etc… He is very motivating and uses lawyers to substitute school teachers in his videos vs. professional fill-ins. So as long as the doc say’s you are healthy enough to exercise and you are serious to commit to getting back in shape, I recommend this program.
My husband and I are currently doing P90X. He is on his 5th week and I sprained my ankle during the first week so I will be starting over again next week. We are just doing the DVDs, we are not following their diet plan and we don’t use their supplements. In just 4 weeks time the changes in my husband were very noticeable. He lost weight and feels better and looks more fit. I can’t wait to get back on track. I was still doing some of the exercises that didn’t involve my ankle but I really am excited about getting back to all the exercises again. These workouts are intense but they are effective too. I feel it helps that we are doing them together too. Not sure I would be so committed without the support of my husband.
Im currently working thru p90x. Today I begin my 6th week. Ive gone from 324 to 300 and dropped a size in the waist. It is a bit intense, but I really enjoy it. I’m following the diet somewhat and it is working great!
I’m currently doing the P90x and i’ve just finished the 3rd week. Up to now i’m enjoying it. I would advice that you only start it if you are relatively fit, i think otherwise it could be too intense. I can’t think of any negatives, but i do agree with the article, if you don’t watch what you eat, don’t bother. I’m taking a 80% attitude to the diet. My aim is to run a half marathon significantly quicker than i did before I started.
I took the P90X test and it was great. I set up a small area in my basement and had my brother come over daily and we worked together at it. I saw great results about a few weeks, and even better results after 2 months. We had a baby and then I stopped working out so guess what I will be doing soon, yep, P90X!
My take on the major points made in the review here:
1) “It works. If you do it.” I agree.
2) “The real key to success is the eating plan.” I agree, mostly. I personally couldn’t devote the time to follow such a detailed plan so I went to the roots of it and ate “my way” but following a few key guidelines. I also agree that it is probably more important than the workouts, but both elements are key. You have to get up and move to transform your body — which is to say you need to do something, if not the P90X workouts, to achieve results. Maybe this is what Henry was trying to say. Diet (meaning eating well, not doing some brand-name artificial diet) and exercise is the key to success, and it doesn’t have to be P90X. I saw fantastic results with my own eating-well (hate to use the word “diet”) plan and this workout program.
Bottom line is this is an effective, but challenging and time/effort intensive package-up of the tried-and-true “eat well and exercise” — with some less-desirable elements including the mentioned marketing of supplements. My results were “fantastic” for an average joe: lost at least 10% body fat, dropped 35 lbs, and I was on the verge of the best body, at 40+, I’ve had since about 15 years ago. But, it was brutal on my free time, it was a slog at times, and I had to be a self-motivator to an extreme. Especially after the first 30 days when I actually looked much the same as at Day 1. My motivation then was that I was stronger and more capable, but it was a tough 30-day assessment and make no mistake, I was Discouraged. I am delighted that things changed dramatically over the next 60, but man-o-man, was that tough to deal with.
Reading the comments has inspired me to leave one of my own. P90X works! I have been using it for about 2 years now off and on. I have completed it a few times, other times I just go for a few weeks, usually with the intention of finishing, but sometimes am derailed by health issues, vacations or other things. I started this program the first time at 6’0, 230 and 38 yrs of age, and pretty outta shape and a part time smoker as well. After a few times doing the program, not only did I quit smoking and never look back, but I got down to 180 lbs, pretty ripped up and have had many girls half my age flirt with me blatantly in front of my wife… I’m just saying, this program will do everything it says if you follow it correctly. I am at it again after a near 6 month break as my work schedule has changed for the better and I now have time to do the P90X again. End of the first week and I’m a little sore, but my body knows just what to do and I can feel the change coming already! I will use this for the rest of my life because I know it works!
I am over 40 and have been doing the P90X for the last 3 months and although officially completed (Sept 2011), I skipped a few days here and there and slightly cheated on the diet plan by having a few chocolates and curries, so im doing an extra couple of weeks and then starting on the maintainance programme.
My first impressions were that it might be a scam, but I thought what the hell, i’ll give it a shot. I was at this time doing some swimming and martial arts, but it was a struggle and I was unhappy and frustrated as i wasn’t feeling healthier.
The P90X educated me on the diet and excercise techniques and so i changed my diet and started the excercise programme. (I did not follow the P90X diet exactly except were I could. I took vitamin suppliments Timed release, from Holland & Barrets. and their whey protein recovery. However I have my doubts about H&B whey protein. I now use a cheap one off ebay, which is going to take a few weeks to know if it is any good.
I have a pretty bad back and neck and I knew I may struggle , which I did but over the course of the first 30 days I got stronger but it was still a struggle and painfull. If you have injusries and or other issues with back and neck, you need to modify, which I did, also good form is key.
first 30 days, the main side effect I was having was not hunger but fatigue/tiredness. I was feeling wasted after the excercise. Upto 60 days I felt this way but also felt fitter and stronger and could see the fat vanishing and my Beach Body appearing. You would think that the exercises would get easier but they don’t. everyday it just the same hard work but after the first 3 to 4 weeks they are easier to cope with and then its up to you to push that little extra. When you start seeing the results in the mirror, your motivated to keep it up.
In my final 2 to 3 weeks the incredible pain and suffering I use to have in my neck and back most of the time, has now decreased by a dramatic 50 to 60% as my muscles are stronger and flexible all over, therfore my body is supported much better and this has decreased the pressure on my back and neck. and at the same time strengthened my back and neck muscles.
One of the most impressive parts of the programme is the Yoga. I was and have been dismissive of it, as sissy stuff, even though I was aware of its history and the fact is comes from my parents homeland. As Tony says” Expand your mind a little and give Yoga a try” it has proved awsome for me, as it has not only cured me of some of the joint and muscular ailments I use to have but have a very high respect and appreciation for it now. Its is truely amazing stuff. Im glad they put Yoga in there, and yes it really does improve everything else you do.
This is my modest opinion and I hope it helps people to get started on it. Remember you dont necessarily have to push yourself to their extremes, you can use lighter weights etc and modify as necessary and you will get all round fitness. The Plyometrics is tough on the joints and I would suggest any one with joint issues to modify and skip were necessary, as thats what I did.
Due to some of the cheating of my diet,I am almost there, just a little fat left on the lower section of belly, but overall my figure is near enough a beach body, so it does work. Oh and dont expect to have massive muscles like Tony’s, thats going to take a few more months of increased weights and some good quality protein.
That is excellent! Thanks for your detailed notes on the program.
I completed P90X this spring, at 64 years old. I found the diet and the exercises somewhat difficult at first, but soon found it becoming easy as I felt healthier. I quickly went from 185 to 165-170 and have stayed under 170 ever since, while not being hungry, and even eating pizza and ice cream once in a while! I ended up doing at least as much weight and reps as the guys in the DVD’s, and am now keeping in shape (and still improving) by repeating weeks 9 and 10, but relaxing the schedule a bit. I don’t think a reduced program would get these same results, since I have worked out with other programs in the past, including serious weight lifting, cycling and other sports. My endurance, balance and strength has all improved faster at my age than ever before. If you have the time, and want to look and feel years younger, don’t take a shortcut — do P90X.
Congratulations, Mike! Well done!!
Today is Day 89 of P90X for me. I have faithfully done this everyday except one which I made up.
First of all I will turn 62 in a few months, so the very fact I have done this is gratifying.I had a heart attack about 3 years ago while training for a half marathon. Then I put on some weight.
I feel great and very toned. I am not ripped, but that’s OK.
I have lost about 15 pounds, but my clothes fit like I lost 25.
This is a tough program. I did Bow last night in the Xstretch for the first time for instance.I still cannot do the Plough.(sp?)
To do this right you must be disciplined and extremely faithful.
If you’re looking for a quick fix I would not do P90X.
I have really come to love this program. After tomorrow I will take a day off and then I plan to do it all over again.
I plan to make working out a lifestyle change and make Gumby look like the Tinman
Thanks Tony!
P90X Has been great on week 4 can already see some results I am 49 years old turn 50 in September I want to be ripped I love it so lets BRING IT ON , DO YOUR BEST AND FORGET THE REST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Regarding the pros and cons chart.. All of the cons you will experience with just about every workout program. Everything takes committment and time, you cant always expect everyone to do all of the moves just like they do, tony has a mute button and you dont need to buy the extra stuff, its just a recommendation from them. That being said, it’s not for everyone but if you stick to it like any other progam, you will get results.
Going into week 10 of P90X. I’m 6’3″ and started at 215 lbs. I now weigh about 191 lbs. Here is my caveat, this is a difficult workout and I have back, knee and shoulder issues (minor but they are there). I started my weight loss at 232 lbs and decided to get in better shape BEFORE starting P90X. If you are obese or morbidly obese this is NOT the workout for you. If you have serious back or joint issues this is PROBABLY NOT the workout for you. If you have old injuries but still feel you can be somewhat active then this MIGHT work for you. I’m in my mid 30′s and can honestly say that I’m almost as strong and fast as I used to be in my late teens/early 20′s when I worked out regularly. But (and this is a big BUT) in order to get the best results you have to make sure you eat right. You don’t have to follow the diet plan included in P90X (I didn’t) but you have to cut out a lot of the junk. It’s a committment and it’s hard but I guarantee you’ll get results. My pants size went from a 38″ to a 34″. Everyone around me has noticed a difference in my appearance and I’ve even heard I look younger. Do yourself a favor, research research research and good luck!!!
I ordered mine today!
Good luck with it, Timothy!
Can you please do an investigation on what is the best product to get rid of bags under your eyes and dark circles.
Hi im 21 5’9″ 140lb im on the rather skinny side im on the first week and lets just say its hard.i bought it to build muscle. But my real question is about the diet. i have a lot of food allergies the main ones being all fish, all nuts, all soy products except soy oil and soy lecithin, and all potato products. as you would think this makes the diet that comes with p90x almost impossible i was wondering if anyone could give me any advice toward what i could eat in replace of these things and if anyone has any recipes that would be awesome to thx in advance
I’m female and 50 – have been seriously working out for most of my life. P90X is too difficult for me due so some spine issues so I follow the original P90 and its incredible. I don’t follow his cardio, I go on a treadmill or an elliptical 40 minutes 3 – 4 times a week. Even P90 works like nothing else!! As far as the foods your allergic to are concerned, I hope you know you can still get in shape without following his plan if you just eat clean balanced meals. I am allergic to all of the same things you are plus more. How about whey protein powder. There are so many to choose from such as EAS or Prolab (many lactose free). YOu can mix it with lactose free milk or water, shake a little fat/sugar free “instant” chocolate pudding power in to thicken it up (trick from one of my personal trainers) and 1/4 or 1/2 of a banana. Since I have so many allergies, I cook up chicken breast or lean turkey burgers and eat it as a snack. I also find I can tolerate “low fat” string cheese. Check out the Pure Protein bars – just find something that is not loaded with sugar and eat them in moderation. Tony has something called Michi’s Ladder where he tells you all “best” foods to eat and puts them in categories best to worse. You can always google it and see if it comes up or you can order from Beach Body the P90 food plan which is less restrictive. Balance and clean are the two most important things here (I should also add low glycemic). You know the drill i.e. protein, complex carb, good fat and veggies (preferably green). There is really no secret except Beach Body is really trying to push that green protein drink and BELIEVE ME its not necessary. They make a S##T load of money off of it and the people who work for them make big commissions. Don’t buy into that – you don’t need it. I’m not a professional in this area but I have had top notch personal trainers for most of my life and I have learned well from them.
Hi am 38 I am 5’10″ 245LBS I would like to know if P90X would be good for me. Because I have a bad shoulder and 2 bad knees I need to get this weight off and build up the strenth in my knees and upper body .
Tony, it depends on just how bad your knees and shoulder are. There is a disclaimer at the beginning of the videos saying that if you have a bad back, knees, etc. P90X may not be for you. However, that being said, one of the videos features a guy working out on a prosthetic leg. Also, almost all of the moves have modified versions to make them a little easier.
I’m 42, 5’9″ and when I started a little over three weeks ago I was 223. Since then I’ve dropped over ten pounds, my clothes fit better and I’m rapidly getting stronger and more flexible. If you commit to pushing “play” every day and you stick to the diet plan this is a great program! The workouts will wear you out, but you’ll feel so much better. I definitely recommend it.
At 54, 6′-0″ and 250, the PX90 was a bit much for me. I found the original PS90 workout much better. It is much less strenuous, which is good for someone of my rather sedentary lifestyle (office, desk), yet the results were excellent (28 pounds, 4 inches, 60 days) and the extra energy I seem to have is amazing. I just wish I hadn’t let myself go for so long – if you’re young and in shape, stay that way, and if you’re young and out of shape, shame on you. It’s much harder when you’re an “old fart”.
im 18, 5’3, and 180 lbs. or even more! I want to try the p90x but my dad is saying that it is all just a gimmick. I don’t want to waste money on this if it is not going to work. I’m looking to shed the pounds but not to have HUGE muscle gain to the point where you can see it through my clothes. I want to have a nice feminine body that i will love and also look attractive to others. is this really worth all my money. is the diet plan hard to follow? how much additional money am i going to have to spend on workout equipment!? someone please help!
Hello Erica. I was, am in your same boat. I am only 5’3 176 pounds. However I started P90X at 187 and in three short weeks I lost that wieght and could fit better in my jeans. I am still working on it and I love working out to P90x.
ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT IT’S WORTH EVERY DIME…I HAVE 2 PEOPLE IN MY LIFE THAT USE IT AND LOOK AMAZING…WHAT A DRASTIC CHANGE FROM WHERE THEY STARTED….I’M WAITING ON MINE THIS WEEK…ERICA…DON’T LISTEN TO ANYONE…THIS PROGRAM WORKS AND YOU WILL PROVE THE SKEPTICS WRONG…I PROMISE
Im 18 years old. For my 18th birthday all I asked for was p90x and the materials I needed to do the program like dumbbells and the pullup bar. My wish was granted and I was really happy. First off I’ll give you a little info about myself. Two years ago I was extremely out of shape. I weighed 185 lbs at my peak and was extremely unhappy with myself. Going into my junior year of highschool I decided to change and over summer break I ran every day for three months and lost 35 lbs. I was much more secure with myself and was finally less embarrassed to take off my shirt. I couldn’t say I was extremely happy though. Though I lost all that weight, I had very little muscle. I had been so focused on kissing weight that I didnt worry about what I would look like after I lost the weight. So here I am going I to my senior year and I still wasn’t completely happy with myself. That all changed when I got p90x. I went through the program kind of halfassed the first 90 days but even then, I gained about 10 lbs of muscle. Now im on phase two of my second round of p90x actually doing the program full out and I’m up to 175 lbs. If you do the math that’s 25 lbs of muscle put on! I get comments all the time on how big my arms are and my abs are finally showing. P90x isn’t just for losing weight you can also gain some major muscle. I’m simply amazed and still challenged every day by p90x and I would recommend it to everyone because it has worked wonders on my body.
I am seriously considering the P90x program. I’m 45 and in weight proportion to my height, but want with the flucuation weight over the years I have a problem with cellulite and was wondering if anyone has seen an improvement in the appearance of cellulite after using this program. Not that’s my main objective, I still want to get in the best shape of my life and from reading all the reviews I have everything to gain with P90x. Just want to get rid of the cellulite too…:)
I’m 45 years old and I work out. I’m 5’1 and about 106 pounds. I really want to get muscle tone. Ive recently went back to school and have two kids, so I dont have alot of time. I’m wondering if power 90 would be to easy. I dont think that I have the time for P90X right now but i want to do something that will help me get my abs back.
i am 19 yeas old n weight about 140 i am skinny as hell n i watn to now wat kind of nutrition plan can i follow to be able to get toned n if p90x has that kind of plan cuz i cant seem to gain weight
Would someone please just let me know……….I am 59 and about 45# overweight. I am very out of shape. Fat and Muscles are tight. I can make the 90 day committment is I can go at my own rate, which would be pushing myself a little further most days. Would love to have feedback from experienced users.
Thank you much.
Dana
@Dana … I’m 49, about 20lbs overweight and have osteo arthritis in both knees. I just started the P90 program. I opted for P90 instead of the P90X because it seemed less extreme and more suitable for someone who isn’t in the best of shape. I’m finding the workouts challenging but do-able for me, so you might want to consider P90 first before jumping into P90X. The daily time commitment is less too.
To Trish! Thank you for your honest feedback. It is really what I needed. I just ordered the P90. Again I thank you much.
I tried to use the “reply” button but had to add another comment instead. Hope you see this because you really helped me out.
Actually I have to disagree with this comment “The truth is, If you do the workouts and don’t follow the diet – you probably won’t lose any weight at all!”.
If you are a couch potatoe and you start this program without dieting you WILL loose some weight it wont be as drastic as with the dieting but you will loose.
I am 52 and started the P90 bootcamp 23 days ago. I have not missed one workout though at first they were not all easy to do. Some of the yoga is hard because my back wont stretch like you need it to but overall the program works with no doubts. I am loosing weight, feeling stronger, you work at your own pace and my chest and legs are without question stronger in only 3 weeks. The first day I could not do 5 pushups and as of yesterday I did about 50 in the workout.
I was not in terrible shape but I could be in much better and this program works. I looked at the 90X and yes its far more intense, I can do some of that and it does take an hour a day. The P90 is about 35 minutes and I assure you its worth every minute!