You're looking to get started with P90X, are you? Well, I will try to convey the best and simplest plan to do so. For those of you who don't even know what P90X is (which probably means you haven't been watching TV at all because there's an infomercial on every 2 minutes), let me give you a brief explanation. P90X is a DVD exercise program that is supposed to get you in shape, help you lose weight, build and tone your muscle, and overall just keep you very fit. There are several DVDs in the program, each one designed for a different purpose. Some are to build certain muscles and some are to increase your aerobic activity. All the DVDs are hosted by Tony Horton, who is extremely motivating and fun to watch.
Now that you know what P90X is, let me explain how easy it is to get it. You'll need to go to the P90X website and order the DVDs which currently cost around $120, plus shipping. This may sound like a lot of money, but I honestly feel it is worth it, as you can tell from my other posts.
Once you are set on ordering the DVDs, there are a few other items you should consider buying. You will need a pull up bar. The kind I had was the one that was just an expandable bar that screwed into a doorway (one without a door though!), like a hallway. It will be noticeable and leave large holes in the wall, so keep that in mind. The other kind you could buy would be something like the Iron Gym bar. Another type of equipment you will need is some sort of weights. Read my earlier post about what I purchased for that. The last thing I would definitely recommend buying is a mat, like a yoga mat, especially if you only have hardwood floors to train. A final thought about equipment is if you want to save some money and storage space, feel free to buy resistance bands instead of a pull up bar and dumbbells. You can perform every exercise with a resistance band instead if you would like, plus you can buy different force resistance bands as you progress, which I know you will!
Hopefully that will get you started. Read my previous posts to see how I did with P90X, and hopefully you will make the huge gains you are looking for as well!
Follow me as I give you daily P90X reviews and a P90X diary. I will give you lots of insight into P90X, P90X schedule, interesting tips and facts while exercising, and lots of good information about the workouts, nutrition, and much more! My P90X reviews and diary shows my progress as Tony Horton tries to kick me into shape!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Friday, April 20, 2012
It's been a while!! P90X overview
I know it has been quite a while (more than 3 years) since my last post, which is also the last time I turned on the P90X videos. Since that time I have been doing a lot of training on my own as well as with a personal trainer. So, I just wanted to talk a little bit about how P90X compares to working out at the gym by yourself or with a trainer.
First, and foremost, is the cost. P90X is seemingly expensive, but is actually well worth it. That is, if you actually take the time to use it. There's no need for a gym membership and there's no need to pay a trainer for each and every session. Second, P90X is very well made, and as I have said in my previous posts, Tony Horton is actually really fun to watch and listen to. It's almost as if he's talking directly to you and gets you pretty motivated. Can you believe he's over 50 years old!?!
Now, let me discuss a few of it's downfalls. It is really difficult to keep the suggested pace of working out almost every single day. This was the killer for me and I burned out because of that. If, or when, I start P90X again I will probably try to actually not complete the entire thing in 90 days. I will call mine P120X and take a few breaks here and there and not worry about missing a day. If I were to compare P90X to working out on your own, I would actually say that P90X may be better. Since most people don't have the patience or skill to create new routines, it is very difficult for them to progress as well as you might see on P90X. I do believe what Tony says about switching the routine each of the 30 days in order to have muscle confusion.
So, if you don't have the money for a personal trainer, the skill or patience to create new routines at the gym, and you want something very easy, but very difficult at the same time, you should give P90X a try. I gave it a try twice, and didn't get through the entire thing either time, but I would love to hear how everyone else does.
Read through all my previous posts if you are thinking about buying P90X and want my thoughts as I went through the workouts each day, or if you already bought it and need some additional motivation.
I will try to add more blog posts frequently with tips, interesting P90X sites, or anything else I find fascinating!
First, and foremost, is the cost. P90X is seemingly expensive, but is actually well worth it. That is, if you actually take the time to use it. There's no need for a gym membership and there's no need to pay a trainer for each and every session. Second, P90X is very well made, and as I have said in my previous posts, Tony Horton is actually really fun to watch and listen to. It's almost as if he's talking directly to you and gets you pretty motivated. Can you believe he's over 50 years old!?!
Now, let me discuss a few of it's downfalls. It is really difficult to keep the suggested pace of working out almost every single day. This was the killer for me and I burned out because of that. If, or when, I start P90X again I will probably try to actually not complete the entire thing in 90 days. I will call mine P120X and take a few breaks here and there and not worry about missing a day. If I were to compare P90X to working out on your own, I would actually say that P90X may be better. Since most people don't have the patience or skill to create new routines, it is very difficult for them to progress as well as you might see on P90X. I do believe what Tony says about switching the routine each of the 30 days in order to have muscle confusion.
So, if you don't have the money for a personal trainer, the skill or patience to create new routines at the gym, and you want something very easy, but very difficult at the same time, you should give P90X a try. I gave it a try twice, and didn't get through the entire thing either time, but I would love to hear how everyone else does.
Read through all my previous posts if you are thinking about buying P90X and want my thoughts as I went through the workouts each day, or if you already bought it and need some additional motivation.
I will try to add more blog posts frequently with tips, interesting P90X sites, or anything else I find fascinating!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Phase 2 Begins
Chapter 2: Day 29/90
This is my first day of Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps and you can tell that we have entered a whole new phase of P90X. This workout is pretty extreme. We are talking lots of variations of pushups, triceps extensions, and shoulder moves. Who knew there were so many different types of pushup moves out there? And, we get to the one that everyone loves and hates: one arm pushups! If I can ever do a real one arm pushup, I will be ecstatic. Today, I did it with my knees on the ground and not going down very far. The other tough move for me was the clap pushup. I had to do most of those on my knees too.
Today was a great sign because I just got back from a week long vacation and continued with P90X right where I left off! Don't ever give up and just bring it!
This is my first day of Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps and you can tell that we have entered a whole new phase of P90X. This workout is pretty extreme. We are talking lots of variations of pushups, triceps extensions, and shoulder moves. Who knew there were so many different types of pushup moves out there? And, we get to the one that everyone loves and hates: one arm pushups! If I can ever do a real one arm pushup, I will be ecstatic. Today, I did it with my knees on the ground and not going down very far. The other tough move for me was the clap pushup. I had to do most of those on my knees too.
Today was a great sign because I just got back from a week long vacation and continued with P90X right where I left off! Don't ever give up and just bring it!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Woohoo! Week 4 for the first time
Chapter 2: Day 23/90
Yoga felt so good starting week 4. I really felt like I have progressed a ton since the beginning. It was the first time that I could get through some of the most difficult exercises. For example, the routine that ends with you in a prayer twist and then wrapping your arm around your back and your other arm through your leg to clasp your hands together... I could never even get close to doing that for more than one second. This time I could! It's really fun when you see yourself progressing.
Today, I did Core Synergistics for the first time and it was fun and difficult at the same time. It worked lots of different muscle groups all at the same time and you could tell that you were working some different areas of your body than before. It felt nice to switch up the routine and finally get a new workout in the mix.
I'm looking forward to getting done Week 4, but not too quickly since I'm sure Phase 2 will be much tougher!
Yoga felt so good starting week 4. I really felt like I have progressed a ton since the beginning. It was the first time that I could get through some of the most difficult exercises. For example, the routine that ends with you in a prayer twist and then wrapping your arm around your back and your other arm through your leg to clasp your hands together... I could never even get close to doing that for more than one second. This time I could! It's really fun when you see yourself progressing.
Today, I did Core Synergistics for the first time and it was fun and difficult at the same time. It worked lots of different muscle groups all at the same time and you could tell that you were working some different areas of your body than before. It felt nice to switch up the routine and finally get a new workout in the mix.
I'm looking forward to getting done Week 4, but not too quickly since I'm sure Phase 2 will be much tougher!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Killer Plyo
Chapter 2: Day 16/90
Every time I finish the Plyometrics workout, it feels awesome... and, at the same time, I wonder how I will get myself to ever do it again! Since plyo is so difficult and exhasting each time you do it, you really don't look forward to it most weeks. One of my goals is to not skip this workout once throughout the 90 days. It's going to be tough but I hope I can do it. It feels great starting week 3 and my plyo workout this time was much easier than the first two weeks which shows me that I am getting more in shape already, even after just 2 weeks!
For all you out there doing P90X, keep it going! I know I will!
Every time I finish the Plyometrics workout, it feels awesome... and, at the same time, I wonder how I will get myself to ever do it again! Since plyo is so difficult and exhasting each time you do it, you really don't look forward to it most weeks. One of my goals is to not skip this workout once throughout the 90 days. It's going to be tough but I hope I can do it. It feels great starting week 3 and my plyo workout this time was much easier than the first two weeks which shows me that I am getting more in shape already, even after just 2 weeks!
For all you out there doing P90X, keep it going! I know I will!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Chapter 2: Week 2 Begins!
Chapter 2: Day 8/90
I just finished Chest and Back for week 2 and man-oh-manischewitz! It is a great workout! You will certainly be feeling soreness in your pecs, lats, and all over your upper body... and that is a very good thing. I told you last post I would give you a sense of how I have changed my workout and routine a little bit for Chapter 2 of my workout.
Since Chapter 1 didn't go quite as planned and I didn't get through all 90 days, I hope some of my changes will help me this time around. First, I am not going to kill myself during phase 1 (weeks 1-4) of the workout. I will, however, work very hard, but if I can't keep up with Tony and the crew the entire time, I will take short breaks. I don't want to burn myself out and just think how difficult the workout is. Instead, I want to feel really good at the end of the workout and the next week wanting to do it again!
Second, I won't be doing it for 90 days straight. That is tough and also burned me out quite quickly. If I need a break in between because of extra soreness or I just don't feel like doing it one day, I will take that needed day off. Don't feel like you have to kill yourself every single day cause if you do, it might not be as much fun. If you can do it every day though, that's awesome! Good for you!
Third, I might occasionally be swapping other types of exercises which I routinely perform in my lifestyle into my workout. For example, I try to play basketball a couple days a week. I might do several things to work basketball in with P90X. For example, instead of plyometrics one day, I might play basketball. Or, I might play basketball and skip P90X that day and continue where I left off with P90X the next day. Or, I might do both the same day! This gives me lots of flexibility and, again, will hopefully keep me flexible enough where I won't burn out or get sick of doing P90X every single day.
Fourth and finally is nutrition. The first time around I followed the nutrition to a tee. I definitely watch what I eat and try to eat healthy every day so I am actually not following a nutrition guide this time around. It was fun following it the first time around and making their recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner... but it took a lot of time. This time around I will just trust my own intuition and health-conscious mind, and take it from there. Clearly, that means no Big Macs every day!
So, those have been my changes from Chapter 1 so far around. I'm feeling great! And starting to look even better!!
I just finished Chest and Back for week 2 and man-oh-manischewitz! It is a great workout! You will certainly be feeling soreness in your pecs, lats, and all over your upper body... and that is a very good thing. I told you last post I would give you a sense of how I have changed my workout and routine a little bit for Chapter 2 of my workout.
Since Chapter 1 didn't go quite as planned and I didn't get through all 90 days, I hope some of my changes will help me this time around. First, I am not going to kill myself during phase 1 (weeks 1-4) of the workout. I will, however, work very hard, but if I can't keep up with Tony and the crew the entire time, I will take short breaks. I don't want to burn myself out and just think how difficult the workout is. Instead, I want to feel really good at the end of the workout and the next week wanting to do it again!
Second, I won't be doing it for 90 days straight. That is tough and also burned me out quite quickly. If I need a break in between because of extra soreness or I just don't feel like doing it one day, I will take that needed day off. Don't feel like you have to kill yourself every single day cause if you do, it might not be as much fun. If you can do it every day though, that's awesome! Good for you!
Third, I might occasionally be swapping other types of exercises which I routinely perform in my lifestyle into my workout. For example, I try to play basketball a couple days a week. I might do several things to work basketball in with P90X. For example, instead of plyometrics one day, I might play basketball. Or, I might play basketball and skip P90X that day and continue where I left off with P90X the next day. Or, I might do both the same day! This gives me lots of flexibility and, again, will hopefully keep me flexible enough where I won't burn out or get sick of doing P90X every single day.
Fourth and finally is nutrition. The first time around I followed the nutrition to a tee. I definitely watch what I eat and try to eat healthy every day so I am actually not following a nutrition guide this time around. It was fun following it the first time around and making their recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner... but it took a lot of time. This time around I will just trust my own intuition and health-conscious mind, and take it from there. Clearly, that means no Big Macs every day!
So, those have been my changes from Chapter 1 so far around. I'm feeling great! And starting to look even better!!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Chapter 2: Day 2: Plyometrics
Chapter 2: Day 2/90
Well... What can I say? Plyometrics did not get any easier from the first time around! Actually, the workout was just as difficult but since I knew what was coming and that starting out is tough, I actually went a little easier today and yesterday than in Chapter 1. I think that's a good tip: don't kill yourself in the first week. Start out a little bit easier (but it should still be really really hard) and you might not get down on yourself right away. Plyometrics is definitely the "mother of all workouts" but it feels great once you're done. I'll go into more later about how I might be modifying Chapter 2 to better fit my lifestyle, but for now, I'm feeling sore and well... that's a good thing. It means I was pushing it!
Well... What can I say? Plyometrics did not get any easier from the first time around! Actually, the workout was just as difficult but since I knew what was coming and that starting out is tough, I actually went a little easier today and yesterday than in Chapter 1. I think that's a good tip: don't kill yourself in the first week. Start out a little bit easier (but it should still be really really hard) and you might not get down on yourself right away. Plyometrics is definitely the "mother of all workouts" but it feels great once you're done. I'll go into more later about how I might be modifying Chapter 2 to better fit my lifestyle, but for now, I'm feeling sore and well... that's a good thing. It means I was pushing it!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
P90X From the Beginning: Day 1 Again
Day 1/90
I have started P90X again and it feels great! I just finished day 1 of chest and back. The only difference from this time around is that I skipped the Ab Ripper X at the end of the workout. I think that this time, for P90X Chapter 2, I will not do Ab Ripper X each time. Although, it was fun, albeit extremely tough, the first time around, it increased the workout time a little too much. So, I will skip it, at least for now. After completing this first workout of Chapter 2, I can tell I am out of shape because I wasn't able to do as much as Day 1 Chapter 1. However, I also don't think I am as tired this time around which might mean I wasn't pushing it as hard this time. But, I'm going to keep pushing it each and every day. I'm feeling good this time. If I get a little bit of motivation from all of you guys out there reading this, I'm hoping I can get through all 90 days this time.
I have started P90X again and it feels great! I just finished day 1 of chest and back. The only difference from this time around is that I skipped the Ab Ripper X at the end of the workout. I think that this time, for P90X Chapter 2, I will not do Ab Ripper X each time. Although, it was fun, albeit extremely tough, the first time around, it increased the workout time a little too much. So, I will skip it, at least for now. After completing this first workout of Chapter 2, I can tell I am out of shape because I wasn't able to do as much as Day 1 Chapter 1. However, I also don't think I am as tired this time around which might mean I wasn't pushing it as hard this time. But, I'm going to keep pushing it each and every day. I'm feeling good this time. If I get a little bit of motivation from all of you guys out there reading this, I'm hoping I can get through all 90 days this time.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Don't Count Me Out
I'm back! I know it's been 8 months since my last post but I'm getting the itch - the itch for P90X again. Unfortunately, due to a vacation and a little injury, I didn't make it past week 4 at the end of last year. This time around I'm going to try to get further. Wait... did I say try? I mean I will do what it takes to get further. This time around I need a set goal and to think it through. Since I'm going to be on vacation starting in the beginning of September I will wait until after that vacation to begin.
I've enjoyed reading the comments of those of you who have left them. I hope all of you are getting a little something out of reading my previous posts and I will continue giving insight and helping you along the way as I start up again... Just as long as you help me along the way too!
I'll be back real soon with more!
I've enjoyed reading the comments of those of you who have left them. I hope all of you are getting a little something out of reading my previous posts and I will continue giving insight and helping you along the way as I start up again... Just as long as you help me along the way too!
I'll be back real soon with more!
Saturday, December 22, 2007
P90X While On Vacation
There's a reason I haven't put a post up in a while. I've been on vacation in Jamaica for the past 6 days. While the trip was fun, I worried about keeping up with my P90X workout and nutrition schedule. I didn't have a DVD player or any equipment with me. Luckily, I am on week 4 of P90X which means that it is a recovery week. I know this doesn't mean do nothing all week. Actually, you are still working out extremely hard each and every day. You just aren't doing the specific body workouts like chest, shoulders, arms, back, legs, and abs.
I had decided before I left for my vacation that I would try my hardest to continue to workout in some way. I was going to stop the P90X schedule for this week and instead workout in other ways such as running. Therefore, I ran hard several times throughout my vacation. It wasn't a complete workout like I would have had with P90X but I at least did something to keep my body in tune so it didn't fall completely apart during this week. It's very important not to lose the muscle gained and the weight lost during your first phase of P90X.
P90X was on my mind during each meal and each day. I ate as much protein as I could and tried to cut down on some carbs and fat although this was extremely difficult for me. It's important that while you are on vacation, and in the middle of your P90X workout, not to throw everything out the window. Do what you can while you are away since it is now your lifestyle. And then when you return, get right back into the P90X workouts! I can't wait to start Phase II on Monday and continue seeing improvement.
I had decided before I left for my vacation that I would try my hardest to continue to workout in some way. I was going to stop the P90X schedule for this week and instead workout in other ways such as running. Therefore, I ran hard several times throughout my vacation. It wasn't a complete workout like I would have had with P90X but I at least did something to keep my body in tune so it didn't fall completely apart during this week. It's very important not to lose the muscle gained and the weight lost during your first phase of P90X.
P90X was on my mind during each meal and each day. I ate as much protein as I could and tried to cut down on some carbs and fat although this was extremely difficult for me. It's important that while you are on vacation, and in the middle of your P90X workout, not to throw everything out the window. Do what you can while you are away since it is now your lifestyle. And then when you return, get right back into the P90X workouts! I can't wait to start Phase II on Monday and continue seeing improvement.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Week 3 Begins
Day 15/90 | 16%
Week 3 has just begun! I can't believe two weeks have already gone by. My weight and body fat have stayed the same. I'm not sure if that's good or bad because I'm not looking to lose much weight, but I am looking to lose body fat. This may be due to the fact that during the weekends I don't pay as strict attention to my diet as I do during the week. Also, it's only been two weeks and I can't expect results too quickly. And also, during this first phase I am looking to bulk up more than losing anything. Next week I'm taking a vacation to Jamaica so I hope I'll be able to continue doing the workout and especially continue doing the diet for the majority of the trip. But, I'm sure there will be my share of adult beverages since it is all-inclusive! Not sure if I should be happy about that or not with my P90X kick going on now. I think my hardest part will be getting enough protein. Luckily, next week is week 4 and it will be my recovery week so I won't need any weights or bars. I will bring the P90X guide along with me so I can do the exercises without the video since there probably won't be a DVD player in the room. If I can't stick to the exercises each day, then I will at least go for a run outside every single day... That, I promise you and myself. Has anyone gone on a vacation while on P90X? How hard is it? Any thing I should prep myself for?
I pushed today's chest and back workout to the max and did as much as I could. The pullups are still very hard for me but I am seeing some improvement. I hope I will be able to do a good number of unassisted reps for all the pull-up exercises before going to the chair, especially on the second set. For all the exercises involving weights, I have slowly stepped up the weight each time if I could perform 10 or more reps using that weight. I have made a good effort of lifting a good amount without overlifting. My new Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are the absolute best and I recommend anyone looking at new dumbbells to get them.
After the Chest and Back, it was time for Ab Ripper X... killer, as usual... 'nuf said.
Although getting 50% of my calories in protein is definitely tough for me, that will be one of my big goals for this week. And, keep bringing it hard this entire week!
Week 3 has just begun! I can't believe two weeks have already gone by. My weight and body fat have stayed the same. I'm not sure if that's good or bad because I'm not looking to lose much weight, but I am looking to lose body fat. This may be due to the fact that during the weekends I don't pay as strict attention to my diet as I do during the week. Also, it's only been two weeks and I can't expect results too quickly. And also, during this first phase I am looking to bulk up more than losing anything. Next week I'm taking a vacation to Jamaica so I hope I'll be able to continue doing the workout and especially continue doing the diet for the majority of the trip. But, I'm sure there will be my share of adult beverages since it is all-inclusive! Not sure if I should be happy about that or not with my P90X kick going on now. I think my hardest part will be getting enough protein. Luckily, next week is week 4 and it will be my recovery week so I won't need any weights or bars. I will bring the P90X guide along with me so I can do the exercises without the video since there probably won't be a DVD player in the room. If I can't stick to the exercises each day, then I will at least go for a run outside every single day... That, I promise you and myself. Has anyone gone on a vacation while on P90X? How hard is it? Any thing I should prep myself for?
I pushed today's chest and back workout to the max and did as much as I could. The pullups are still very hard for me but I am seeing some improvement. I hope I will be able to do a good number of unassisted reps for all the pull-up exercises before going to the chair, especially on the second set. For all the exercises involving weights, I have slowly stepped up the weight each time if I could perform 10 or more reps using that weight. I have made a good effort of lifting a good amount without overlifting. My new Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are the absolute best and I recommend anyone looking at new dumbbells to get them.
After the Chest and Back, it was time for Ab Ripper X... killer, as usual... 'nuf said.
Although getting 50% of my calories in protein is definitely tough for me, that will be one of my big goals for this week. And, keep bringing it hard this entire week!
Friday, December 7, 2007
Day 12: Keep Pushing It
Day 12/90 | 13% Complete
It's Friday, today was Legs and Back, and week 2 is almost over! Here are my thoughts about this week. I felt like it was much harder than the first week in some ways. Once I got over the hump in performing some of the exercises from last week, this week was a real burner. I pushed it much harder this second week and felt the burn much longer. I haven't been as sore the day following the exercises which is good and means my muscles are getting used to being worked now. The Ab Ripper X from today was extremely tough as usual. I can get through more of the initial exercises with them but start needing breaks as soon as I get halfway through the Crunchy Frog. For those of you that couldn't get through Ab Ripper X at the beginning of your P90X training, is anyone able to get through it at the end of your training? It just seems impossible to me! I'll keep bringing it though because I do feel like I'm getting stronger.
Nutrition has been a little hard to keep up with since I have to make every meal now and make them as healthy as possible. The Nutrition Guide is so awesome and helpful in putting together meals, but lately I haven't had time to make lunch to bring to work. I still eat what I am supposed to be eating in terms of about 2400 calories a day and 50% protein, 30% carbs, and 20% fats (with little saturated fat if possible.)
I'm excited for Kenpo X tomorrow. By biggest accomplishment that P90X has given me so far is that I'm actually waking up early and working out in the morning which I have never been able to do in my entire life!
It's Friday, today was Legs and Back, and week 2 is almost over! Here are my thoughts about this week. I felt like it was much harder than the first week in some ways. Once I got over the hump in performing some of the exercises from last week, this week was a real burner. I pushed it much harder this second week and felt the burn much longer. I haven't been as sore the day following the exercises which is good and means my muscles are getting used to being worked now. The Ab Ripper X from today was extremely tough as usual. I can get through more of the initial exercises with them but start needing breaks as soon as I get halfway through the Crunchy Frog. For those of you that couldn't get through Ab Ripper X at the beginning of your P90X training, is anyone able to get through it at the end of your training? It just seems impossible to me! I'll keep bringing it though because I do feel like I'm getting stronger.
Nutrition has been a little hard to keep up with since I have to make every meal now and make them as healthy as possible. The Nutrition Guide is so awesome and helpful in putting together meals, but lately I haven't had time to make lunch to bring to work. I still eat what I am supposed to be eating in terms of about 2400 calories a day and 50% protein, 30% carbs, and 20% fats (with little saturated fat if possible.)
I'm excited for Kenpo X tomorrow. By biggest accomplishment that P90X has given me so far is that I'm actually waking up early and working out in the morning which I have never been able to do in my entire life!
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
P90X Nutrition and Calories
Day 9/90 | 10% Complete
Today I'm going to write about my nutrition habits on P90X and what I've learned that works and doesn't work. A complete and awesome Nutrition Guide is shipped along with P90X. This guide goes hand in hand with the P90X workouts. It breaks down what calorie range you should be in, calories burned, what percentage of fat, carbs, and proteins you should eat, and even what foods you should eat. I'll tell you specifically what my goals are here. First off, since I am fairly thin to begin with, I am not looking to lose weight. Instead, I am looking to stay lean and build muscle. Therefore, I will follow the guide for Phase I Level II. The formula in the guide tells me that my nutrition level is 2400 calories per day.
150lbs x 10 = 1500 RMR
1500 RMR x 20% = 300 Daily Activity Burn
1500 RMR + 300 Daily Activity Burn + 600 P90X Workout Burn = 2400 Energy Amount
2400 - 2999 = Level II (you should eat 2400 calories per day)
For phase I of the program, I should eat 50% in protein, 30% in carbohydrates, and 20% in fat. I am trying to eat foods that are very low in saturated fats, and I am trying (although it's hard) to keep my sodium to a minimum too.
If you want to follow the Nutrition Guide exactly, it actually spells out every meal for all 90 days, giving you really good recipes for soups, sauces, breakfast, lunch, and dinner! It's one of the best nutrition guides I've seen anywhere just because it's so easy to follow and allows you to pick and choose what you want to actually do.
I follow the guide pretty closely, but it's very hard and time-consuming to follow it exactly every day. Some of the recipes have lots of ingredients and take time to make. Making lunch almost every day is somewhat of a chore for me because I never used to make my lunch and bring it to work. When I go out to eat, I try my best to continue following my guidelines. For lunch, if I go out I might go to Boston Market and get 8oz Turkey with sides of mixed vegetables and red potatoes (and skip the cornbread!)
One final note is that I found a great website that allows you to track your eating throughout the day so you know exactly how much you are feeding your body. The website is SparkPeople. You can use it because it's free and it's made extremely well.
Today I'm going to write about my nutrition habits on P90X and what I've learned that works and doesn't work. A complete and awesome Nutrition Guide is shipped along with P90X. This guide goes hand in hand with the P90X workouts. It breaks down what calorie range you should be in, calories burned, what percentage of fat, carbs, and proteins you should eat, and even what foods you should eat. I'll tell you specifically what my goals are here. First off, since I am fairly thin to begin with, I am not looking to lose weight. Instead, I am looking to stay lean and build muscle. Therefore, I will follow the guide for Phase I Level II. The formula in the guide tells me that my nutrition level is 2400 calories per day.
150lbs x 10 = 1500 RMR
1500 RMR x 20% = 300 Daily Activity Burn
1500 RMR + 300 Daily Activity Burn + 600 P90X Workout Burn = 2400 Energy Amount
2400 - 2999 = Level II (you should eat 2400 calories per day)
For phase I of the program, I should eat 50% in protein, 30% in carbohydrates, and 20% in fat. I am trying to eat foods that are very low in saturated fats, and I am trying (although it's hard) to keep my sodium to a minimum too.
If you want to follow the Nutrition Guide exactly, it actually spells out every meal for all 90 days, giving you really good recipes for soups, sauces, breakfast, lunch, and dinner! It's one of the best nutrition guides I've seen anywhere just because it's so easy to follow and allows you to pick and choose what you want to actually do.
I follow the guide pretty closely, but it's very hard and time-consuming to follow it exactly every day. Some of the recipes have lots of ingredients and take time to make. Making lunch almost every day is somewhat of a chore for me because I never used to make my lunch and bring it to work. When I go out to eat, I try my best to continue following my guidelines. For lunch, if I go out I might go to Boston Market and get 8oz Turkey with sides of mixed vegetables and red potatoes (and skip the cornbread!)
One final note is that I found a great website that allows you to track your eating throughout the day so you know exactly how much you are feeding your body. The website is SparkPeople. You can use it because it's free and it's made extremely well.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Day 8: Week 2 Begins
Day 8/90 | 8% Complete
Today seemed like the hardest workout so far. It seemed like it was much harder than the Week 1 Chest and Back workout but I think that is because I was pushing it that much harder today, which I guess is a very good thing.
One big thing that I bought over the weekend was some new dumbbells! I have been writing about buying some new ones since mine extended my workout time so much more and I kept having to remove and add different weights to my dumbbell bar. Well... I just bought the Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells and they are so awesome!! They are made tremendously well and seem like they will be tough for a long time. The only con I have about them so far is that they are a little bulky but for this workout, they did the job perfectly. I managed to get a great deal for them at Sears and only paid $242 for the 552 series which go from 5 to 52.5 pounds.
Week 2 started off on the right foot!
Today seemed like the hardest workout so far. It seemed like it was much harder than the Week 1 Chest and Back workout but I think that is because I was pushing it that much harder today, which I guess is a very good thing.
One big thing that I bought over the weekend was some new dumbbells! I have been writing about buying some new ones since mine extended my workout time so much more and I kept having to remove and add different weights to my dumbbell bar. Well... I just bought the Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells and they are so awesome!! They are made tremendously well and seem like they will be tough for a long time. The only con I have about them so far is that they are a little bulky but for this workout, they did the job perfectly. I managed to get a great deal for them at Sears and only paid $242 for the 552 series which go from 5 to 52.5 pounds.
Week 2 started off on the right foot!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Day 7: X Stretch
Day 7/90 | 7% Complete
I have completed one full week of P90X. Woohoo! I know there's still a lot more to go but I feel great. Today was either a rest day or the X Stretch and I did the stretching workout. It's so relaxing to get a workout that isn't as intense as the others and actually really does improve your flexibility. I can't ever imaging being as flexible as the one woman on the video, Shawna, who looks like she's a rubber band while doing every single one of these stretches.
I crashed on the diet last night because my company had their holiday party so I had to eat everything in sight! (including all desserts.) But, starting this morning, I'm eating right again.
1 Week down, 12 more to go!
I have completed one full week of P90X. Woohoo! I know there's still a lot more to go but I feel great. Today was either a rest day or the X Stretch and I did the stretching workout. It's so relaxing to get a workout that isn't as intense as the others and actually really does improve your flexibility. I can't ever imaging being as flexible as the one woman on the video, Shawna, who looks like she's a rubber band while doing every single one of these stretches.
I crashed on the diet last night because my company had their holiday party so I had to eat everything in sight! (including all desserts.) But, starting this morning, I'm eating right again.
1 Week down, 12 more to go!
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Day 6: Kenpo X
Day 6/90 | 6% Complete
The best part of P90X is the variety! Variety of workouts, variety of exercises, variety of moves, variety of words that constantly come out of Tony's mouth!! :) Variety makes these workouts fun and keeps you interested. Today's workout was something I had never really done before besides for when I was about 10 years old. Kenpo X is a lot of kicking, punching, blocking, and other karate-type moves. It is fun and makes you sweat as well. There were a couple of the blocking moves where I just felt complete uncoordinated and not knowing what they were doing... like the one that you step forward block high, block in, out, and then down, and step to the other foot. I will definitely need to practice that one.
I know it's only day 6, but my workouts are still feeling good, my nutrition is still in-check, and I'm feeling great. Oh, and there's all my muscles being sore every day too! But, I'm sure all of you out there will help keep me motivated.
The best part of P90X is the variety! Variety of workouts, variety of exercises, variety of moves, variety of words that constantly come out of Tony's mouth!! :) Variety makes these workouts fun and keeps you interested. Today's workout was something I had never really done before besides for when I was about 10 years old. Kenpo X is a lot of kicking, punching, blocking, and other karate-type moves. It is fun and makes you sweat as well. There were a couple of the blocking moves where I just felt complete uncoordinated and not knowing what they were doing... like the one that you step forward block high, block in, out, and then down, and step to the other foot. I will definitely need to practice that one.
I know it's only day 6, but my workouts are still feeling good, my nutrition is still in-check, and I'm feeling great. Oh, and there's all my muscles being sore every day too! But, I'm sure all of you out there will help keep me motivated.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Day 5: Legs and Back
Day 5/90 | 5% Complete
So far, I do not like the back workouts because I can barely do an unassisted pull-up. I did 5 full ones in my fit test but after I complete my first set without the chair I am pretty much done doing unassisted pull-ups for the rest of the workout. The legs workout was very good, being able to work out my hamstrings, quads, calves... all over! I was definitely sweating to keep up with the Fab 4 (Tony and his group!) throughout the morning. The energy that Tony gives off actually does come through the TV. He pushes you to do that extra rep or get lower. I've been getting pumped up at the beginning of the DVD when the group gets pumped up and at the end of each workout so far I have been high-fiving the TV, just like the group. It really is a cool thing!
As far as nutrition, I've still been following the Nutrition Guide most of the time, but it's been harder going to the grocery store every other day to pick up the next couple days worth of food. So, today I'll probably be eating lots of leftovers from previous day's dinners. If you are interested in tracking what you eat each day, I have found an awesome website called SparkPeople which is free that allows you to enter what you eat every meal each day and then view reports on each day. Therefore, you can track your calorie intake as well as your percentage fat, carb, and protein intake each day too... just to make sure you are on track.
So far, I do not like the back workouts because I can barely do an unassisted pull-up. I did 5 full ones in my fit test but after I complete my first set without the chair I am pretty much done doing unassisted pull-ups for the rest of the workout. The legs workout was very good, being able to work out my hamstrings, quads, calves... all over! I was definitely sweating to keep up with the Fab 4 (Tony and his group!) throughout the morning. The energy that Tony gives off actually does come through the TV. He pushes you to do that extra rep or get lower. I've been getting pumped up at the beginning of the DVD when the group gets pumped up and at the end of each workout so far I have been high-fiving the TV, just like the group. It really is a cool thing!
As far as nutrition, I've still been following the Nutrition Guide most of the time, but it's been harder going to the grocery store every other day to pick up the next couple days worth of food. So, today I'll probably be eating lots of leftovers from previous day's dinners. If you are interested in tracking what you eat each day, I have found an awesome website called SparkPeople which is free that allows you to enter what you eat every meal each day and then view reports on each day. Therefore, you can track your calorie intake as well as your percentage fat, carb, and protein intake each day too... just to make sure you are on track.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Day 4: Yoga X... who knew?
Day 4/90 | 4% Complete
This was my first yoga lesson ever... and I had no idea what it was going to be like. It turned out to be much much harder than I ever thought. It was peaceful and difficult all at the same time. I felt completely relaxed after finishing it. Some of the moves I couldn't even get close to doing since I am definitely not as flexible as I should be. As usual, Tony is a great motivator even when you think you're completely out of energy, he gets you to do one more set or hold a pose for 10 more seconds. One of the hardest things for me is holding my leg straight and high in a bunch of the moves. So, I just hope that as time goes on, I can start to see a difference with that.
I really liked this workout and I hope it will give me more energy throughout the day today since I have been lacking energy the last couple of days. The only problem I have with this workout is that it's a little longer than the other ones since it's an hour and a half long. However, I feel like this workout will help me so much with my balance and my flexibility as well.
By the way, as I mentioned yesterday, I've been looking at new dumbbells since I can't stand mine. I went to the store and checked out a couple of the adjustable dumbbell sets and it seems like the Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are one of the only well-made ones out there. A lot of the others are metal and "stick" a lot while trying to adjust the weights. I found a less expensive but smaller SelectTech dumbbell set that only goes up to 20 pounds of total weight per dumbbell but I think I may go with this. It goes from 2.5 lbs to 20 lbs in 2.5 lb increments and is a lot more compact than the larger set. I have heard that the larger set which goes up to 52.5 lbs is sometimes too large and unwieldy. My only requirements are that I can adjust it in 2.5 lb increments and that it goes up to 20 or 25 lbs. I would really like it if these went up to 25 lbs but for $150 I might just buy these and then buy a few individual dumbbells for the larger weights or continue to use my current set as well. Bowflex needs to make another set of dumbbells which adjusts from 20-50 (or 75) so you can use the smaller set for smaller weights and the larger set for larger weights but, oh well, I can't ask for everything, can I?
This was my first yoga lesson ever... and I had no idea what it was going to be like. It turned out to be much much harder than I ever thought. It was peaceful and difficult all at the same time. I felt completely relaxed after finishing it. Some of the moves I couldn't even get close to doing since I am definitely not as flexible as I should be. As usual, Tony is a great motivator even when you think you're completely out of energy, he gets you to do one more set or hold a pose for 10 more seconds. One of the hardest things for me is holding my leg straight and high in a bunch of the moves. So, I just hope that as time goes on, I can start to see a difference with that.
I really liked this workout and I hope it will give me more energy throughout the day today since I have been lacking energy the last couple of days. The only problem I have with this workout is that it's a little longer than the other ones since it's an hour and a half long. However, I feel like this workout will help me so much with my balance and my flexibility as well.
By the way, as I mentioned yesterday, I've been looking at new dumbbells since I can't stand mine. I went to the store and checked out a couple of the adjustable dumbbell sets and it seems like the Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are one of the only well-made ones out there. A lot of the others are metal and "stick" a lot while trying to adjust the weights. I found a less expensive but smaller SelectTech dumbbell set that only goes up to 20 pounds of total weight per dumbbell but I think I may go with this. It goes from 2.5 lbs to 20 lbs in 2.5 lb increments and is a lot more compact than the larger set. I have heard that the larger set which goes up to 52.5 lbs is sometimes too large and unwieldy. My only requirements are that I can adjust it in 2.5 lb increments and that it goes up to 20 or 25 lbs. I would really like it if these went up to 25 lbs but for $150 I might just buy these and then buy a few individual dumbbells for the larger weights or continue to use my current set as well. Bowflex needs to make another set of dumbbells which adjusts from 20-50 (or 75) so you can use the smaller set for smaller weights and the larger set for larger weights but, oh well, I can't ask for everything, can I?
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Day 3: Shoulders and Arms
Day 3/90 | 3% Complete
I've been going through the last couple days sore from the previous day's workout. But it's good soreness! As long as I'm not in pain anywhere and my muscles are sore, it's all pure goodness. The shoulders and arms workout was another good one but I realized one thing. My dumbbells just won't cut it. As I mentioned before I use the free weight type of dumbbells with a bar where you have to change the weights on each side of the bar every time you want a different weight. Well, for this workout I was switching practically every single set which, first off, is not fun at all. Second, it wastes so much time and, third, it gives me too much rest between sets.
I've been doing the workouts in the morning right after getting out of bed and before going to work and I need the workouts to take as little time as possible so I can get to work on time. So, I'm going to price a few different options. I like the Bowflex adjustable dumbbells, but at $330, they're a bit expensive and I have heard mixed reviews about them. I will also check out regular individual dumbbells from The Sports Authority and see how much they go for, but I definitely need a change! Does anyone have any suggestions?
Besides for that, the workout was awesome. Tony kept me motivated as usual. His "twin" look-alike was in this video which was quite bizarre. At the end just when I thought I was done, I realized I wasn't. The Ab Ripper X was coming up. So, I killed the abs and I felt like I could do a little more than the first time around a couple days ago.
I can't wait to keep bringing it!
I've been going through the last couple days sore from the previous day's workout. But it's good soreness! As long as I'm not in pain anywhere and my muscles are sore, it's all pure goodness. The shoulders and arms workout was another good one but I realized one thing. My dumbbells just won't cut it. As I mentioned before I use the free weight type of dumbbells with a bar where you have to change the weights on each side of the bar every time you want a different weight. Well, for this workout I was switching practically every single set which, first off, is not fun at all. Second, it wastes so much time and, third, it gives me too much rest between sets.
I've been doing the workouts in the morning right after getting out of bed and before going to work and I need the workouts to take as little time as possible so I can get to work on time. So, I'm going to price a few different options. I like the Bowflex adjustable dumbbells, but at $330, they're a bit expensive and I have heard mixed reviews about them. I will also check out regular individual dumbbells from The Sports Authority and see how much they go for, but I definitely need a change! Does anyone have any suggestions?
Besides for that, the workout was awesome. Tony kept me motivated as usual. His "twin" look-alike was in this video which was quite bizarre. At the end just when I thought I was done, I realized I wasn't. The Ab Ripper X was coming up. So, I killed the abs and I felt like I could do a little more than the first time around a couple days ago.
I can't wait to keep bringing it!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Day 2: Plyometrics
Day 2/90 | 2% Complete
For those of you who don't know what plyometrics is, this is the "mother of all workouts" as Tony Horton calls it. This is the "X" in P90X. Plyometrics is jump-training. There are lots of intense, explosive moves. This entire workout lasts about an hour and at the end of the workout, I felt like I had just run a marathon. As usual, Tony broke down the moves for me and best of all kept me motivated and intense throughout the workout. Not only is he funny and interesting as you are working out, but he keeps you in the game the entire time! I've always been a pretty athletic guy, playing lots of sports and activities, and I can tell that this workout would probably do wonders for you if you are an athlete.
Day 2 was a success! I finished the workout with a Protein Shake which I made following the recipe from the Nutriton Guide, but I will go in more depth with my nutrition and exactly what I'm eating in a later post dedicated to it.
For those of you who don't know what plyometrics is, this is the "mother of all workouts" as Tony Horton calls it. This is the "X" in P90X. Plyometrics is jump-training. There are lots of intense, explosive moves. This entire workout lasts about an hour and at the end of the workout, I felt like I had just run a marathon. As usual, Tony broke down the moves for me and best of all kept me motivated and intense throughout the workout. Not only is he funny and interesting as you are working out, but he keeps you in the game the entire time! I've always been a pretty athletic guy, playing lots of sports and activities, and I can tell that this workout would probably do wonders for you if you are an athlete.
Day 2 was a success! I finished the workout with a Protein Shake which I made following the recipe from the Nutriton Guide, but I will go in more depth with my nutrition and exactly what I'm eating in a later post dedicated to it.
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