Does P90X Work? Is P90X a Scam?

about 722 days ago by
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As with any popular and mainstream product in America, P90X is not without its critics. I think this is especially true with fitness and nutrition products in general. Earlier this week I received some questions from my readers that made me stop and think for a bit. If you’ve had any degree of success with the P90X system these questions will be all too familiar to you: Does P90X work? Is P90X a scam? I say familiar, because it’s likely that your friends and colleagues have asked it, even after witnessing your results with their own eyes.

Does P90X Work? Is P90X a Scam?

Does P90X Work? Is P90X a Scam?

Along with the questions also lie the criticisms. The most significant criticism I’ve heard to date came from a former personal trainer. While some web masters may choose to hide or delete negative comments from their site, I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to have their opinions heard. That being said, here’s what Michael wrote:

I notice there are a lot of review pages for this and other programs. Most pages are being promoted by the maker of the product, or someone selling the product. Real bunch of winners. I’ll give an honest review that’s unbiased, since I have no vested interest in selling anything, as I am a working professional not working in the field of fitness at the present moment. I used to be an accomplished personal trainer for many years. But that was long ago in a galaxy far away. So let’s begin:
I think it sucks! Tony is full of crap. The same goes for the Insanity workout, the Hip Hop Abs CD, and most of the other stupid workout videos. The workouts are dangerous (the exercises are fast, sloppy, and ballistic), and just because you change the exercises (in P90X), doesn’t mean you have enough intensity to make changes. Intensity (loose definition: is some how performing more work than you did last time). And even if you have enough intensity, which is hard to do if you don’t know what it means, then you can easily get injured by performing new exercises without learning good form. There is a learning curve for form everytime you learn a new exercise, and if you rush it, sorry, you get injured. A week or two, or even three is not enough time. So so sorry. The good news is: Anyone can lose weight on a well balanced maintainence calorie diet (the Zone is a good start), and then, working out with weights hard (and I mean hard. no “girly” weights. that goes for women too!!!) 30 minutes 2x a week, HIIT cardio training once a week, low intensity arobics 3x a week for an hour, and having good enough form not to get injuried (something this program can’t guarantee, sorry. You need a workout form coach to actually see you in motion to correct the mistakes. And it can’t be done in a video. Who’s watching you? God. He better be, because with the injuries you are going to incure, you better be praying). Anyway Tony, and the rest of the gang, you are either very unethical, or very very stupid. Either way the program is a bunch of crap. Stick to the basics, and learn good form from somebody who knows what good form is in real time, not on a CD. Don’t be cheap, it’s your health we’re talking about. You don’t need a trainer forever. Just a few workouts to learn good safe form. What you don’t need, is just another hyped up bullshit program with actors getting paid to say whatever. I give the lowest rating to this program for being totally unethical or stupid or both. Any questions?

And about the issue of exercise boredom: I’m an MSN, and trust me, I know it’s “real fun” and not boring when you have a chronic injury and are laid up at home, or even worse, in the hospital after surgery. Yeah, real real fun. I repeat, stick to the basics. Nobody said the basics were that fun. They are what they are, and it is what it is. Only a few hours a week, but the pay off is great.
Then maybe, when your in decent shape, understand about what is safe form, and have decent flexibility, then for variety, you can proceed forward and use these programs with extreme caution.

Michael

basically i want people to think before act emotionally.

My Response to Michael’s Comments

Hello Michael. Thanks for your comment. I truly appreciate your unbiased view about P90X and passion towards the topic of physical fitness. With your background as a personal trainer, there are many things the fitness community could and should learn from your previous experience. You made several great points about P90X that perhaps a better solution could be devised.

For example, “You need a workout form coach to actually see you in motion to correct the mistakes.” I believe this to be sound advice. I am currently reading a book called Talent is Overrated, by Geoff Colvin that talks about how people get better at doing things through deliberate practice. According to the book, an element necessary for improvement is feedback. How do you know if you are getting better if you don’t know how you are doing right now? Regarding improvement of proper form, perhaps a P90x’er could use a mirror, video equipment, or workout with a buddy? Tony does mention that working out with friends is much more fun, but he doesn’t emphasize having your friends watch to ensure that you have perfect form. Being assisted by a trained professional would certainly improve the feedback and quality correction necessary for deliberate practice.

I share your enthusiasm and conviction to help others with physical fitness and overall health. However, I respectfully disagree with completely dismissing Tony Horton as a credible fitness professional and P90X as a legitimate fitness program. It’s undeniable that Tony Horton is in great shape especially at 51 years old. If it is not P90X that keeps him in shape, something is. With this being said, there is obviously something he is doing right. I admire Tony for his enthusiasm towards physical fitness and dedication towards helping others. Is he compensated for it? I’m sure he is compensated well. It is my personal belief that the compensation you earn is in direct proportion to the value you add to the world.

Much like you, I believe people should think before they act. That’s my problem sometimes to be honest with you! I have a tendency to act on emotion without thinking things through. That’s just how I’m wired I guess. Is P90X for everyone? Certainly not. I think everyone should do as much research as possible regarding any decision in life to do what is best for them. That way you will have multiple options and be able to choose from choices. I started this website as a hobby and because I believe in this product. I also accept that it is important to look at things objectively. This is why I am grateful for you stopping by my site and helping me to remember to always look at things from a different perspective. Good luck to you Michael!

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  • IamImperfectlyPerfect

    As someone who did P90X, Insanity, Hip Hop Abs, Turbo Fire, etc. etc., AND a former stunt professional athlete and personal trainer – I can unequivocably say they all work. BUT – and here’s the BIG BUT – to sustain those workouts 5-6 days a week for an unlimited period of time and a VERY rigid eating program, using heavier and heavier weights and more and more jumping – I have seen more people quit and sell their programs than finish them. Those who are successful I say congratulations – and I was VERY successful but I also now suffer from joint and ligament challenges, muscle weakness from over training and DEconditioning, yes, I said deconditioning. I started the programs in good shape and was RIPPED when I finished but to maintain it was VERY hard on my body. Yes, I did these workouts of my own volition but when you are getting compliments on your physique and being asked questions all the time, you eventually feel like you MUST be doing something right. I look good but, boy, I hurt when I wake up in the morning – that can’t be a good sign. Plus I got food obsessive, this can lead for some to eating disorders. I am small, 5’4″ tall and 108lbs. I still do a couple of Beachbody workouts but now I am concentrating on being lean and HEALTHY. I use a variety of workouts and pay attention to my body. Plus I eat a variety of food. Their eating program is very logical but nothing new, there are a dozen out there just like it. The commercials induce those who are grossly overweight or grossly out of shape to convince themselves that they can be in the BEST shape of their life in 90 days – yes, maybe better than before but they are convinced they will be in elite athlete condition. I have seen it time and time again. NO matter how many times it is written on the DVDs and in the commercials that this is for those who are already in good condition or to modify the workouts , et al, folks still go full bore and in less than a week are so sore they can’t move and they give up. Beachbody is VERY, VERY successful now and getting more so every day. Their coaches are driven to make money AND I would trust, promote healthy fitness but NOT to instruct their customers or potential customers of the dangers of starting with too much, too quickly, is an injustice to them. There are coaches who are making 6 figures by signing on more coaches with their popular shake (It gave my family terrible gas and we tried it several times for months on end before we gave up), the workouts, and the very seductive marketing about making money from these products. And make money they do. Their workouts are stellar in some respects and they put a lot of time, effort and I can imagine money into them. I Do think Tony Horton DOES care about fitness and health. He was a personal trainer to many high profile people before he joined Beachbody. The ingredients in most of their products are first rate. Some of their accessories are made quite cheaply, however. I have had several products that broke or wore out in a matter of weeks. I certainly have no beef with Beachbody BUT I do caution anyone and EVERYONE who asks me about it. Yes, get in the best shape of your life, but also think about your longevity. There is a reason elite athletes have short careers and health issues mainly concerning their bodies. They pummeled their bodies in their careers and with exercise. By all means support Beachbody BUT do it at your level of fitness, not at Tony Horton’s.

  • Butch

    Jim, i’ve been doing P90X for a year and a half now. I’m on my 7th round that just started yesterday. I’ve never followed the diet in the program, but just started counting my calories. I eat 5-6 times a day, and eat bad friday nights and saturday, but somehow maintaining my weight. I was at 23% body fat when I first started P90X and currently at 12% body fat now. This is without using their diet. Just start counting your calories and you will do well. I didn’t even diet when I first started P90X at all, but my body just kind of adjusted (that’s the best way I can put it) and it felt like the diet just became natural after that. Now, I eat healthy most of the week. Just like they say. Just do it. I don’t work for beachbody, nor i’m a coach for them. I’d rather stay simple in my life, but saw your comment here. My first round, my arm just kind of lost the fat, but once I started lifting bigger weights, i’ve gained an inch around them. Just keep doing it and you will see the results.

  • Allisonrenna

    I too just completed week one of the lean program. I’m a former coach and triathlete and marathoner with two kids and I think using the word “sham” is a bit harsh. P90x is NOT advertised for everyday people. It really spoke to me in the advertising for people who are already athletes or at least athletic. There is a very big difference between people who “exercise” and people who “train.” I think it differs from past DVD programs in that it mirrors athletic training (for sports). Any person who has ever participated in varsity or beyond sports should feel right at home. It is written on the DVD’s that only WHEN you are in some basic level of condition wanting to go to “the next level” should you do these DVD’s. As an athlete, this is the first “follow at home” workout that appeals to me at all and has credibility (I can’t say others don’t b/c I haven’t tried them, but I can account for P90x.) Any athlete or coach who has trained themselves or others can catch on quite easily to the form by watching and listening and making adjustments. It’s the closest you can get without paying $60 p/hr for a trainer. Like I said, I think people need to take the warnings seriously that it is for “serious” people “training”…not people wanting “to get off the couch and start an exercise program.” If you can’t do the form properly, I don’t think this DVD series is for you…PERIOD. I could be wrong that P90x is marketing towards “anyone” but I did not get that impression. And the “warning” on the DVD is quite clear. So I think saying anyone is unethical is failing to use basic reading skills to be honest with himself that this DVD is only for serious athletes ready to train at a higher level.

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Theo-Whittington/100001651401493 Theo Whittington

    I don’t know if you could say P90X ‘works’ or not but the advertisments for it are laughable, the graphs for example are very misleading – I’ve seen the insanity adverts and the P90X adverts, they were on TV a while ago and those will not be typical results. The main influence in the program is likely to be the calorie deficit.

    I can’t properly review it because I haven’t bought it, nor will I because frankly as a fitness professional the adverts scream bullshit but we get a good laugh from it whenever it comes up lol It’s not based on facts, muscle confusion isn’t a real term and plateaus don’t occur in 90 days.

    If you watch the ad again, note that very little muscle gain occurs between before and after pictures, they just strip fat off of those who are adequately muscled, it’s the calorie deficit that does most of the work.

    The guy isn’t stupid by any means he must have something like a dozen highly successful products of this nature – they don’t need to be great products, they just need to sell well.

    I wouldn’t call the consumers stupid but think about it, are you really going to look like a model in 90 days? Male models either train for years (2+ normally) or take steroids to get a muscular physique, 90 days is more like a dieting phase. If it sounds too good to be true it normally is.

    Lol I like the insanity advert, I must’ve seen it ten times but it still makes me laugh.

  • Mark

    “It is my personal belief that the compensation you earn is in direct proportion to the value you add to the world.” It’s simple to find people earning big salaries who not only don’t add value, but subtract it, from the world.

  • Mark

    “It is my personal belief that the compensation you earn is in direct proportion to the value you add to the world.” It’s simple to find people earning big salaries who not only don’t add value, but subtract it, from the world.

  • Lucas

    Wanted to get back into weights and just general fitness, have put on a few kg during winter and have quite a bit of body fat I want to get rid of.

    Really don’t have the money for gym membership, let alone a PT. One of my mates gave me all the DVD’s/Books etc on P90X and I picked up a set of resistance bands for $50, which is a quarter of the price of what my local gym costs for 3 months (same period as the P90X system)

    I have to 100% agree with Michael on form. Part of the reason I’m hesitant about starting the P90X is because I haven’t done proper weight training in years, and I know my form is going to be piss poor.

    I may just pony up for the PT sessions, concentrate on getting excellent form and then using the P90X as a guide, rather than a “do everything” program.

  • Jim

    Just completed first week of P90X lean. Last of November last year I started the Weight watchers program. At the start I was at 256lbs and at end of March was at 206lbs with very little exercise. I have noticed quite a bit of muscle loss so was looking for a program to help in this area. I stopped the weight watchers in march and had put back on about 10lbs so started doing the weight watchers program again last week. Also wanted a workout program to tone and help get rid of about 20 more pounds. I like the workout program with the P90X but the diet I think is very hard to follow. Any comments on using the Weight Watchers diet with the P90X?
    thanks

  • Noel

    And if I could add- make sure to keep good form.
    Keep the knees bent to support the back (as Tony shows) and keep the
    shoulders relaxed, where a lot tension develops.

  • Noel

    I’ve just started P90x.
    I would describe myself as a dreamer. I always wanted the Adonis figure, and the abs, and just to be fit – hell, as a teenager I bought The Bullworker machine. I have gone to trainers and have tons of books. I am sick of reading about pyramid sets and supersets.
    It’s strange that I came across the P90x advert after a night on the town. I remembered the name and read the reviews and bought the product. Normally, I ignore advertising, especially at 4.30 in morning.
    I don’t want to get too excited but this is everything I have wanted for about 30 years. A straight forward, no bulls**t product that I believe will work. It’s far from easy. I just did my first yoga workout. The first 45 minutes were the closest, I think, I could come to torture – and I mean that in a good way.
    This is not easy. This is tough. This is hell, sometimes. But if you want a product that will work I really believe this is it.
    Give this product a try. Just push yourself to YOUR limit and not beyond. As the guy keeps saying do it to your own ability.
    A revelation! I am working on my own but I think it would be great if you had a partner, so you could push each other.

  • Brittany

    He’s a previous personal trainer due to the fact that all beachbody products are AWESOME! and they work so everyone is now saying forget the gym when I can workout at home! Especially the people that don’t have the opportunity to go to the gym like single moms or people that work full time and plus it saves gas for our car! Sorry this moron isn’t a personal trainer anymore because others are being smart!

  • Mike

    I am a 50 year old male who has worked out all his life. I am in week 9 of P90X and I can tell you it is one of the best things I have done. I was in good shape when I started and I still struggled with a number of the workouts in the beginning, so go slow the first few weeks until you get used to the moves. There is a learning curve, but just make the commitment and keep pressing play. I don’t think you will be sorry.

  • B.J.

    I have a few weeks left of P90x lean. I didn’t even know there were other Power 90 exercises before I started. I’m 30 years old and haven’t really worked out since high school. I have deltoids now. I think that’s all I have to say about P90x because before I didn’t even know what a deltoid was. But I have them now. Big ones.

  • Jon

    I too am a fan of P90x, and I’m in probably the best shape of my life at 30. I’m 15 lbs heavier than I was in high school, and the few clothes that I still have from back then are loose on me.

    That being said, I have a black belt in Kenpo Karate, which is one of the DVDs in P90x (kenpo x). I’m not a fan of this workout for beginners since they do not break down how to throw punches and kicks properly. Everything is absolutely rushed. My wife has done yoga for almost 10 years now and she feels very similarly about Yoga X as I do about Kenpo X.

    With that in mind, I can understand that a personal trainer could feel that way about the overall program. I haven’t gotten hurt and I make sure to do proper form. Tony mentions all of the time “do you best” and “quality over quantity” along with not letting your ego get in the way.

    P90x is for people who know how to work out, but need a little bit of motivation and focus. If you fit in that category, you’ll do great.

  • Dave

    I would strongly disagree with this write. I have been working out to P90X for about 5 weeks and have found it to be one of the best exercise routines I have found. The moves are not complicated at all and if you have had any experience working out you know them well. Tony is a great motivator and explains everything well. I highly recommend this series and have loved the results I have already accomplished.

  • d

    I have to strongly disagree with this post. Before p90x, I tried to get in shape many times. I hired a trainer, I went to the gym, I ran. But i could not stick with any program.

    P90x worked because it was in the comfort in my own home. The dvd’s were encouraging. The workouts simple to master. And it gave routine. It thought me how to workout.

    Now I no longer do p90x. I can’t possibly listen to Tony Horton for over a span of two years. But it’s been 3 years since I started and finished p90x. It gave me the tools to be fit. Now I go to the gym with a routine, with discpline, with a knowledge how to workout.

    P90x is a great program. I never once got injured. I did it over a year and had great results. I highly recommend it.

    Until you get sick of Tony’s voice.

  • brian

    I am 30 year old married straight male who would give Tony Horton a hug and a kiss if i ever saw him in public. p90x is one of the best things that ever happened to me.

    those of us who have done it know that and quite frankly laugh at those of you remain willfully ignorant.

    Is it for everybody? no of course not. they don’t claim that it is.

    is it super complicated? no of course not: exercise & eating right is 90% of the battle. As Tony says, “just keep showing up”

    is at as good as joining a gym and having a dedicated personal trainer? probably not – but i for one don’t have that kind of time or money.

    There are legitimate criticisms. I am glad I read them before I started. I pushed myself but I was careful to know my limits and as a result I didn’t get hurt.

    They are very clear about the basic requirements for doing p90x before you start – and they aren’t insignificant.

    They recommend a relatively high level of baseline general health and physical fitness prior to even starting. There are many many people who were below that level who have had great results – but if you choose to proceed against caution then you run the risk of getting injured. You can hardly fault Tony et al for that, can you?

  • Danny Green

    Mikey! I ordered P90X and absolutely love it. I can’t wait for more!! I feel myself actually getting addicted to the program. It’s fun to work and push myself to the max. I haven’t been injured the entire program and am working far passed the 90 days and am even going to order the extended programs. Try it you may change your mind!!

  • kevin

    I THINK P90X IS NOT A SCAM, BUT THIS BLOG IS!!
    – WHY A BLOG THAT SELLS P90X PRODUCTS, SUPPORT THE PROGRAM, HAS ARTICLES THAT “TEACH” YOU HOW TO KEEP WITH THIS PROGRAM AND HAS PHOTOS WITH TONY ALL AROUND, WILL WRITE THAT P90X IS A SCAM?
    —-BECAUSE THEY WANT TO REACH PEOPLE WHO IS LOOKING FOR SPECIFIC WORDS ON GOOGLE, LIKE “IS P90X A SCAM?”, THESE PEOPLE MAY BE RE-DIRECTED HERE WHERE THEY WILL READ THE ARTICLE, THEN ALL THE POSITIVE COMMENTS ABOUT P90X AND END UP BELIEVING THAT P90X IS NOT A SCAM AND PROBABLY BUYING P90X FROM HERE. P90X REALLY WORKS. HOWEVER, THIS BLOG IS A SCAM AND NOTHING ELSE THAN A MARKETING TOOL TO SELL WHATEVER THEY NEED TO SELL.
    — This website is just another info comercial.
    I’ve been in this situation, where you are looking for real information and I hate when I end up with this kind of websites/blogs.
    Kevin

  • Tom E.

    No question, Michael raises some good points with regard to any training. But he makes some bad ones too. To say that the program is a bunch of crap is, well, itself a bunch of crap. I’m a 57-year old ex-athlete (also in a land far away) who finds the P90X routines outstanding. True, a main weakness is the lack of instruction on a few exercises. But if it works, then it works. And it is working great for me. True, I don’t follow the same level of intensity as the pros on the screen, but it’s still brought great results for me. The exercises make sense, and I am an adherent to the philosophy that with form (muscles) there must be function (flexibility, balance, conditioning).

    from my own experience, Michael’s point are overstated and extreme. I have had both PTs and P90X, and the latter has been more effective for me and certainly less expensive.

  • Jerry

    I think this review is incredibly biased, contrary to what the writer claims.

    For example, consider the nature of the website. It’s basically a blog that sells Beachbody products, and loaded with ads from Beachbody. I’m not sure what the purpose of the author in writing this is, as well as the purpose of the website.

  • jim

    Another P90X fan here. The program works! Michael sounds like a scorned trainer, upset that his clients are working out at home and not using his services. Dude, you’re not a doctor! PT are like one step above the guy handing out towels at the gym. Get over yourself, I recommend P90X to ANYONE wanting to get in the best shape of their lives!

  • http://www.facebook.com/joshskates Josh Danger Miller

    My younger brother started using p90x about a year ago. He is 5 foot 11 and weighed 245. Needless to say, he was extremely overweight, and out of shape. A year later, he has lost 75 pounds, and is in the best shape of his life. I started p90x too, and I’m in the second phase right now. I am not unfamiliar with working out, the gym, cardio, trainers, etc. Yet this workout is truly the most intense thing I’ve done. And I see and feel the results every day! I thank Tony Horton, and I will continue to use this program. Also, I have incorporated some of the Insanity workouts into the p90x program, just a few days a week to supplement the workout, and let me tell you, the insanity workout stays true to its name! Tony Horton and Sean T. Have it all figured out, and I would encourage ANYONE to enjoy the results that p90x will give you!

  • Aaron

    Sounds like Michael mainly wants people to make use of his own personal coaching services; he doesn’t exactly come across as unbiased. Certainly some will make use of personal trainers. But not all of us can. For us, P90X is a great fitness tool.

    Does P90X work? No question about it. I’m usually very skeptical about most at-home fitness programs. But, after hearing the good things about P90X, my wife and I tried it this past winter and managed to not only prevent our usual winter atrophy, we are in much better shape than we were at the end of last summer. It’s more entertaining than the endless hours on the exercise bike, and much better exercise. I would assume that those who are saying P90X is junk or a scam have never really tried P90X, or gone much beyond the first week.

    Is P90X dangerous? It can be—it’s not for those with back problems or are very out of shape. But the P90X materials tell you this—that if you don’t meet the basic fitness requirements, you will most likely injure yourself, and you should choose a lower-intensity exercise program before trying P90X. The most dangerous part of P90X is the first week, when people are highly motivated but unaccustomed to the exercises, and can easily do more than their couch-potato bodies can handle. They do mention that slow and steady is better than fast and injured, but this is definitely something they could stress more, especially for fitness neophytes—who might be under the delusion that they can have a physique like Tony’s after only 90 days.

    As to weight loss and muscle definition, you will only lose weight if you follow the dietary guidelines or otherwise make your calorie intake less than your calorie expenditure. So, weight loss for P90X is optional. But if you work hard at P90X, you can’t help but improve your fitness.

  • Lippi

    Started P90x at age 47 now 50. Had a bad back my entire adult life, until now. No back issues since I started the program.
    Of couse diet and exercise work, but P90x brings it to the next level maximizing results. Most people fail because they are not consistent, for many reasons however a biggie is time. Working out at home eliminates travel time to and from the gym. Many people also feel intimidated walking into a gym, on top of it all Tony keeps you engaged and encouraged. The big bonus married 25 years and my wife cant keep her hands off me. Althought the physical results are dramatic it’s the mental results that are so impressive. After you compltete P90X you will find that there is nothing that you cannot accomplish.

  • Russell

    I also want to say a 90 day grad would never talk against p90X. As I said in my last comment I’m in my 2nd round and will be a 2 round grad in 5 weeks. Not bad for an old man. (Take note, you youngsters. )
    At 46 I’m kickin butt like I never have before. The problem with most guys, is that they want to go work on their trophy parts.
    Like if their arms are big, they concentrate on that. Or their chest is good, they’ll bench alot.
    P90X will give you the whole package. Just press play. It’s really that easy. Oh yea, there is one thing you also have to do. BRING IT.

  • Russell

    I’m a male who will be 47 in oct 2011. I’m in the greatest shape of my life . Thank you Tony Horton and the P90X crew. I started last Dec 28 a year ago 2009. I’m
    6’2 and was 202. In ok shape. I was running 1 1/2 miles that whole month
    I did the program. I went to from 202-185 in 90 days. I was cut. I really didn’t follow the diet, but ate better.
    The yoga is the key to it all. I continued to pick and choose p90X workouts for the next 9-10 months.
    I’m finishing my 8th week. I was at 199. Much different looking than my original 202. I’m 191 today.
    It is intense. It ain’t for beginners. It focuses on ALL your weak spots. People at work are amazed how I look and what kind of yoga I can do including crane.
    P90X is the REAL DEAL along with all the beach body programs.
    REAL RESULTS.

  • Nathan

    P90x is a gimmick because it assumes everyone follows the diet plan.
    I lost 40+ pounds the simple way – running. P90x tries to sell overweight people on the program when its really for fit people that want to just develop muscles they haven’t already developed. “Muscle confusion” is just cross training.
    If you want to lose weight, its pretty simple – do any exercise you will do and do it as much as possible. Also, cut out sugars such as sodas and junk food. That alone should cut down the weight. P90x is for people that are either easily fooled or don’t know how to google core exercises. Nothing new or special in it!

  • Zac

    P90X is not about losing weight. It’s about being in the best shape of your life. Eating right alone does not do that and neither does most peoples “workouts” if you can even call it that. Jimmy I challange you to do P90X and tell me that your own personal workout is just as good as or better than P90X.

    As for the hurting yourself…Tony walks you through what and what not to do. If your gunna hurt yourself doin P90X, I’d hate to see what happens to you going to the gym all alone.

  • Zac

    Yea this guy has no idea what hes talking about. Mike, have you done P90X? Doubt it. Sounds like your talkin outta your butt man. I worked out in highschool and afterwards to get into shape…I got decent results. Im 23, did P90X for 75 days and looked like a movie star. Get your “facts” straight before you post something like this. Do it first, then talk about it.

    Loser.

  • Julian Placino

    Thanks your comment. Although I do not totally agree, I believe all points of view (good or bad) should be heard about P90X. I think it is healthy to discuss the pros and cons of any product. It shows that people are intelligently coming to their own conclusions and not just listening to the media or misc marketing messages.

    Personally, I believe in P90X as it has brought many positive changes into my life. Thanks again for dropping by and taking the time to comment. Take care.

  • YeahRight

    Michael did not sound angry, he sounded informed. The P90X is dangerous, it is sloppy and it may lead to injury. I doubt that most of the comments that refer to him as angry are authentic. They are mostly deflective. If you change to a healthy diet, and move – just move – walk, bike, yoga you will lose weight.

    You do not need something as extreme or unsustainable as P90x. Getting into a habit of running, walking, swimming or biking will be a lifetime habit. P90x no matter who you are will be a phase.

    Now, I have plugged nothing, have nothing to sell, and I hope this message remains on this blog.

  • http://reedsp90xdiaryandreview.blogspot.com/ Reed Leverton

    I write in response to Michael’s post.

    I am 56 years old, father of four and GRANDfather of one. I have worked out on and off (mostly on) my entire life, but never in gyms. Now I don’t have anything against them; I’ve just always been pretty good in the self-motivation department and also enjoy working out at home.

    Until 30 days ago I exercised regularly with a popular brand machine. As much as I enjoyed the product, after 10 years I was starting to get bored and wanted to take a break and try something different and more intense, hence the move to P90X.

    So far I have really enjoyed P90X although it is important to note that it is VERY intense and the notices set forth by its producers should be followed closely. Generally you should be in reasonably good shape to start P90X and if you are my age (or anywhere close to my age!) you probably ought to consult a physician before getting started.

    Respectfully, I think Michael paints with too broad a brush. Is it right for everyone? No, and the P90X folks make that clear in their disclosure statements. That said, I do think the program has a lot to offer for many, and I for one have benefitted from its use. After only 30 days I look better and feel better. Of particular note is a reduction of 2 full percentage points in body fat in just 30 days. For some folks this might not be a big deal, but I submit that for a 56 year old male who started at 17%, a move down to 15% is noteworthy. (BTW, I’m 6′-3″ and started at 192.5. I only lost one pound during the first 30 days which, combined with the percentage drop in body fat, tells me that I’m building muscle as well as reducing fat).

    As to injuries, mine have either been normal post-workout soreness that resolved within 48 hours or relatively minor. As to the soreness, I’ve been working out long enough and understand what my body is telling me well enough to know that this soreness comes from targeting new muscle groups, which is exactly what I wanted to do with P90X in the first place. As to actual injury, I did aggravate an old injury to my left rotator cuff. Again, that aggravation has been minor and I’ve been able to work around it.

    In summary,P90X may not be for everybody but it sure has worked for me. I’d give P90X very high marks so far. Frankly, I was surprised to have measurable results so quickly and am looking forward to the next 60 days.

  • haha

    wow, you didnt even plug your product. i dont knwo if you “can’ here but i’d be interested in hearing about it :) .
    like i said, trying to do my homework :)
    thanks for the doing a shameful plug, but can you share it anyway? thx :)

  • haha

    ROFL, the OMFG comment made /die/ but youre right about not listening…it happened to me once, thought i was going to do the ?macho” thing and finish my set! OMFG that was dumb. i pulled a rib muscle badly when doing my set of 10 squats and even though i finished my set, i could barely breath when i was done and i couldnt touch the squat rack (and most other exercises) for almost 6 months. if your body says STOP, then stop. youre not in football camp, 2-a-days, or the military. i have been in all of those, and those are different. i speak about this from experience and thought i’d pass it on. by the way, i am trying to decide to get this p90x thing myself or not and stumbled upon this website in doing my homework. im 34, 240lb, and havent worked out regularly for more than 5 years. since my football and military years in the early 20s i have ballooned from 175 to 240. makes me say OMFG im fat. i know how to do workouts on my own but i may just take the dive for this b/c now that im married with 2 kids and over my head in debt, perhaps this is the best thing instead of paying $30-50 a month to a gym and like they said int he p90x infomercial “whos that fat dude busting a gut over there”. my problem is time and motivation. and the cost, although the alternative gym cost is more…sigh

  • Tyler

    “Unbiased Review”… yeahhh riiighht. P90X is a great balanced workout with great instruction, if you follow Tony’s instructions you should not get injured. Michael is obviously trying to talk down a product that puts his income in jeopardy.

  • Mark

    Very interesting discussion. I have nearly twenty five years of weight training behind me. I’ve been a bodybuilder and a successful powerlifter. At 47 P90X kicked my ass. Nothing I had done in the past compared to the intensity of sticking to the program and pace. Having a muayThai background, the KenpoX was too easy for me, however; the plyometrics just kicked my butt. I cut the Yoga in half – I’m too ADHD for ninety minutes of yoga no matter how beneficial! I’m in phase-2 and seeing good results. I highly recommend it. Just don’t be anal – if it hurts find a substitute exercise that doesn’t hurt you. Sometimes I just grab some big dumbells and do a set of presses when I’ve had too many push-ups. Substitute, rest, and like they say over and over, “Do your best and forget the rest!”

  • Joseph

    A lot of it comes down to being in tune with your own body, too. If you aren’t smart enough to listen when your body says “STOP!” and knowing the difference between “ow, quit it” and “OMFG DON’T DO THAT AGAIN!” from your own body you are going to get injured. However, if you utilize a little common sense, pace yourself in the beginning, and don’t be in such a rush to get ripped right off the bat, you’ll be just fine. Remember, you didn’t get those moobs overnight, and you aren’t going to get rid of them that fast, either. P90X works, and it’s a great program.

  • Chris

    Micheal was right, I did the p90x and I got injured within the first two weeks, every person is different, I already suffer from hyperflexibility and sublaxations and for someone like me the p90x was adisaster waiting to happen, so don’t dismiss what Micheal is saying, it all comes down to individual physique, tolerance, health and pre-existing injuries or medical problems.

  • Jimmy

    I agree with Michael, P90X is trash and a scam…. Anytime you workout hard and eat better of course your gonna lose weight…. Wow really hard to figure out… Why would people waste money on this infomercial crap?

  • Double Barrel Darrell

    As I read Michael’s “unbiased view” about P90X, I felt like I was reading a child’s temper tantrum. It was an emotion-based perspective of a program that he has obviously not taken the time to truly review and most likely one that threatens his livelihood.

    I have just completed my first round of P90X, so I speak from experience. I have also been involved with many other forms of workout programs and routines, and I can honestly say that P90X gives you the complete package. From cardio to weight training to yoga, you get stronger, more flexible, more stamina, and lose weight. Tony Horton CLEARLY tells you to pay proper attention to form, breathing, and listening to what your body is telling you. This program is not for the dimwitted, egotistical, or obese. This program is considered EXTREME because you are expected to truly dedicate three months of your life to intense training and proper nutrition. The “unbiased view” of people like Michael are the joke here, simply because it was very biased, uninformed, and to be quite honest, downright dishonest and unintelligent. I can understand legitimate reviews of the program, because it’s not for everyone. But Michael’s perspective is flawed and in his own words, stupid.

  • http://difyfitness.com Mark

    Just another trainer throwing in his two cents…

    Michael, as a few others have already pointed out, seems to have a major vendetta against P90X with little apparent reason.

    I sell a service that actually competes with P90X, and I leverage that because so many people know about the program. Even being a P90X competitor, I have to echo what Roxie said – the program is a legitimate program that will deliver great results if you follow it. Michael makes it sound like an injury waiting to happen, but it’s not.

    My only issues with the program is that there’s not a whole lot in the way of variety and the workouts last longer than I typically recommend. Oh, and I personally find Tony annoying, but that’s just my opinion and it has nothing to do with the program itself – I’d just get sick of watching him every day. Back to the length of the workouts… I, again like Roxie, do half-hour workouts with my clients. They’re still very intense, and though there’s nothing wrong with hour-long workouts, people are more likely to give up on a program when they feel they can’t make time for the workouts.

    P90X has gotten a lot of people moving and has them feeling good about themselves, which I commend it for – I can only hope my service does as well on the business end! ;-)

  • http://healthyshy.vox.com/ shy

    well – for some one who was suppose to give an unbiased review, michael sure was pretty angry. sorry, anytime i hear some one call something ‘stupid’ or include a whole load of typo and grammatical errors, ‘unbiased’ isn’t the best word to describe this type of review.

    a rant would better describe michaeli’s soap box monologue. plus, i love how he ended it with, “basically i want people to think before act emotionally.”

    hmm – and his rant wasn’t emotional? time to practice what you preach, michaeli. :)

    anyway, a few of my friends have been using p90x for over a year now. all of them have proven great results. i will admit, though, that none of my friends and i are beginners to fitness. we have, at the least, some good idea about proper form, intensity and being safe.

    having said that, i don’t believe ANY fitness dvd’s should be done alone if you are truly a beginner in fitness. it NEVER is a bad thing to hire a personal trainer for at least a couple of months to help you get both motivated and educated on safety and proper form. some people pick up on it quickly, others do not. i never have had a personal trainer but when i started working out, i did a lot of research and i did do everything, back then, in a form of a group exercise type setting.

    as for p90x, personally, i think it’s the most challenging and effective fitness dvd/home program i have ever experienced. i’m not a trainer or a sales person here. i’m just simply a working mother who has a desk job – and is getting back into shape after being out of it for several years. i use to be in top-notch, athletic form and well, after having a baby, those smooth, hard areas became a little too soft for my liking.

    now, doing the p90x classic, along w/ a well-balanced diet, the tone is coming back and the inches are coming off. the next time i do the p90x 12 week program, i’m even thinking of upping it to the doubles routine.

    michael mentioned something about starting off with The Zone diet. perhaps i’m being ignorant here so anyone, please correct me if i’m wrong – but isn’t The Zone diet a bit old? i don’t know – you see, for me, all these fad diets have always brought out the skeptic in me. i’ve seen a slew of my co-workers try all these types… the zone, atkins, south beach… the diet works for a little while, then they gain all the weight back, if not more.

    at 37, i’ve come to a place in life where i realize that healthy eating is just a way of life. and you need to find the most basic, long term way of nutrition in order to stick with it.

    well-balanced meals of fresh/raw veggies and fruit, whole grains, protein, good fats, lower sodium and moderate carbs… plus, variety!

  • Julian Placino

    HI Roxie
    Thanks for your comment! I just checked out your website and have to mention how awesome you look! I think it’s great that fitness professionals such as yourself can approve of P90X as being a legitimate workout system. Having done 3 cycles of P90X, I’m ready to challenge myself with a different program. What are your thoughts on Insanity? Thanks again for your comment and insight into P90X.

  • http://www.RoxStarFitness.com Roxie

    LOL, I do (offer a 30 day money back guarantee that is, haven’t had to issue a single one yet).

    But back to the topic. P90x is very legit, I’ve been using this training style for 10 years, in actuality it’s nothing new. It’s loosely based on a form of training called Tabata Training, even up to the intervals he uses as far as active/rest times. I have a bootcamp where we do this same sort of concept, in THIRTY MINUTES, as well as all of my 30 minute one on one training programs. My clients have AMAZING results. I haven’t had a single client yet who hasn’t seen great results (myself included, I use this form of training to prepare for competitions).

    He seems to really stress form in the video, which is VERY different than most out there. The cameras move around and show each participant including the various modifications (from advanced to easy) so it is essentially as good as having someone there. Simply working out in front of a mirror and listening to his cueing and ACTUALLY LOOKING AT THE SCREEN can fix that form problem easily. It is however best to have a session or two with a trainer to make sure any compensations you may have can be corrected in case you have questions. But overall, this program doesn’t deserve a bad wrap.

  • Julian Placino

    Hi Brittany,

    Thanks for your comment and the tip! I looked up the bender ball and I can see how it would support my lower back. I think this will definitely come in handy when doing crunchy frog and the other abdominal exercises that require balancing on your butt. Someone else recommended that I try a “bosu ball” but I can see how a “bender ball” would allow more range of movement. Thanks again for the tip Brittany! Good stuff!

  • Brittany

    Julian,

    If “crunchy frogs”, the bicycle, or any of the movements where you are balancing on your butt hurt your back, try tucking in a “Bender Ball” at the base of your lower back. You still have the same amount of core engagement, but there is a small support base for your back. It really does work wonders.

    I love Ab Ripper X, it is such a great workout.

  • Julian Placino

    Hi Tim,

    Thanks for your comment! It’s great to hear a different perspective of P90X from another fitness trainer. I think you have a good point when you say that, “Tony is trying to motivate but also educate people on fitness.” He gives some really good advice before, during and after each specific move is performed. If you think about it, he is not only trying to help prevent you from hurting yourself, but educate you on how to do each move correctly going forward. Regarding the Ab Ripper X…I am on my 3rd cycle of P90X and I still can’t get through the entire routine without taking breaks. I’m glad I am not the only one who struggles with that! I will admit, the first 4 moves where you are balancing on your butt is tough on my back. Thanks again for your comment. I really appreciate your feedback and perspective on P90X.

  • TIM

    I LIKE MICHAEL WAS SKEPTICAL ABOUT THE PROGRAM P90X AND DECIDED TO TRY FOR MYSELF. BEING A FITNESS TRAINER MYSELF I KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO HAVE GOOD FORM TO PREVENT INJURY. IN DOING THIS PROGRAM NOT ONLY DO I THINK TONY IS TRYING TO MOTIVATE BUT ALSO EDUCATE PEOPLE ON FITNESS. IM IN THE THIRD WEEK OF P90X AND HAVE NOT GONE TO THE GYM ONCE TO EXERCISE AND NOT ONLY FEEL STRONGER THAN NORMAL BUT FEEL THAT I CAN PUSH MYSELF MORE AT HOME WITHOUT DISTRACTION. I DO AGREE THAT YOU MUST BE IN A CERTAIN FITNESS LEVEL BEFORE ATTEMPTING THIS PROGRAM BUT IN NO WAY IS IT AN UNATAINBLE FEET TO FINISH THE WORKOUT. THE ONLY IMPROVEMENTS I WOULD RECOMMEND TO TONY WOULD TO GRADUALLY ADD EXERCISES TO THE AB RIPPER X IT SEEMED DIFFICULT TO COMPLETE. WITH PEOPLE CUTTING BACK ON THEIR EXPENSES I DO THINK THIS PROGRAM IS AFFORDABLE AND AS FAR AS HOME FITNESS PLANS GO I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS ONE….T

  • http://JustGetMeFit.com Julie

    Michael. As I read your post, I couldn’t help but wonder why you’re so angry about something you’ve never attempted yourself. I spent many years in the gym watching people come in and go out, most with terrible form…even men in the free weights section had “injury” written all over their foreheads. Using work at home dvds such as the ones offered by Beachbody allow people to workout without EGO which often leads to stupidity and injury. They allow people like me to stay consistent. Afterall, it’s hard to stay motivated at the beginning of January and February when the gym is packed with New Year’s resolution members. It’s hard to to stay consistent going to the gym if it often feels like a “meat market” or you’re out of shape and fear people will stare at you. It sounds to me like a personal trainer (or former personal trainer) might feel threatened by this home fitness trend – where do they fit in? How will they make a living? I know a personal trainer who trains one of her clients using P90X. She doesn’t use the program, but her client loves it. All Beachbody programs come with a 30 day money back guarantee. Is their a personal trainer who offers a 30 day money back guarantee? Yes. I use the Beachbody programs. No. I didn’t know Beachbody was a MLM until about 60 days into P90X. Did I sign up to be a Coach? Yes – primarily so I could get discounted products. Am I making money with Beachbody? A little, not a lot. I don’t expect to get rich. What I expect is to live a healthy lifestyle and be a witness to my family and friends. For the record, no one in my family or circle of friends could touch P90X, so I don’t recommend it to them. If there’s a Beachbody program I think can help them, I tell them about it. Otherwise, I encourage them to swim, walk, do the Biggest Loser, Wii or whatever other fitness activity will keep them moving. It’s about getting to the finish line, not about pushing people out of the way.

  • http://www.coachannagray.wordpress.com Anna Gray

    Michael, I think that you need to take a look at how many people have been successful with this program. Just google it. Yes, people that have not worked out a lick in their lives should not do this workout, and Beachbody makes no qualms about it, P90x is an EXTREME home video and not for beginners. Working out 6 days a week will produce results no matter what. You want to get from point a to point b, your gonna be successful. As far as proper form goes, that is the beauty of the DVD’s pause it and take a look in the mirror. I actually have a degree in Exercise Physiology and still highly believe in this product as well as other beachbody products. There are beginner workouts and advance workouts. But I really don’t believe that anyone should throw there money away by having a gym membership and not use it. If they use it, great, more power to them, but for us working mothers, who are athletes and cant get to the gym. This offers the variety we need.

    As far as nutrition goes, Tony Horton is a prime example of a well oiled machine and people should strive to be as healthy as him. He deserves the money he receives. He eats clean and doesnt put any crap in his body. I have no problems sharing that philosophy with anyone I come in contact with. Its real simple, eat REAL food!!! Tony is not a crock as I have met him and he is as genuine as can be. What is wrong with seeking to rid this country of a horrible thing….OBESITY. If it comes in the form of an In-home Fitness program, then more power to Beachbody for tapping into that market. It has worked incredibly well for me and for thousands.