Why I like P90X and why I don't

It is one of the most popular fitness infomercials of all time. Thirty minutes of sexy bodies (and their less sexy “before” shots), cool looking exercises, high spirited trainers, and sleek looking videos all stand in front of a well-conceived fitness program.

P90X sells 10s of thousands of copies of their fitness and nutritional programs all over the world. They claim they can transform your body in 90 days. They tell you it won’t be easy (nothing worth doing ever is). They tell you if you work hard you can look like the testimonials they flaunt from beginning to end. They talk about “muscle confusion” and high intensity training (though they didn’t really invent any of those concepts). But they did package them nicely.

If you have followed my postings long enough you know I am not a big fan of fitness infomercials. Usually they deliver an overpriced gadget that is only a small part of your fitness solution. The electrodes you attach to your body will not shock you into getting a six-pack. The Gazelle is a way to do cardio but not the only way, and certainly not the most effective.

So does P90X work? I reviewed the program and interviewed two people who have used it. Here is what I found. We’ll start with the good, move to the bad, and then talk about using personal training to help keep you motivated and accountable.

The Good Stuff
P90X first and foremost provides convenience. It allows you to workout in your own home, avoid the travel time to and from the gym (and all the social distractions that happen when you are there) and gives you the flexibility to do it where and when you want.. I’ve built my in-home training business around this very concept. Many people need convenience and flexibility in their workout programs due to the demands of their kids, careers, etc.

P90X will get you results….if you commit to it. It is a plan for working out that cannot help but get you results based on the amount of time it requires (see “The Bad Stuff” in my next blog post). Darrell from Buffalo, NY reports that the first 30 day cycle helped him “lose his gut”. “I look great, I lost 7 lbs, my abs are starting to show and my situps, pushups and pull ups are off the charts compared to day 1.”

P90X provides variety. Regularly varying your activities is essential for fitness results. The constant changes in workouts from yoga to kickboxing to strength training to plyometrics will keep you interested and challenged. According to Deirdre from PA, “For those who were athletes, this is a fantastic program - it will put you back to the days of practice.”

P90X gives structure. Many people need guidance to know what to do and when to do it. The program provides this with strict guidelines on what to do each day. If you are someone who benefits from a structured program this can keep you on task to your goals.

In my next blog post we will look at several drawbacks to the P90X program including the significant amount of time required, the heavy role supplements play in the nutritional program, and the sustainability of this type of approach over the long term. Stay tuned….