P90X Extreme Home Fitness with Tony Horton - Set of 13 DVDs Reviews

• Yes, it is like the informercial says

  
  By A36B7TZNERS5IW on 2007-09-01
  This product is what I expected from the infomercial - the infomercial is a good representation of what you'll get. The DVDs are good, come in a small case (no excess packaging to exaggerate or compensate for lack of real product). The accompanying written materials are good too.
  However, I found that I wasn't quite in shape enough when P90X arrived to use it well. I went back and bought Tony Horton's "Power Half Hour" and used that for a few weeks first - had to wake up some muscles I've let go dormant. I've been in good shape most of my life, but kind of got lazy lately - I needed to get a basic foundation before I could jump into the incredible workouts he provides.
  Make no mistake; this is a commitment. The workouts are long, and hard, but they are engaging. No geeky cheesy cheerleader pep talks in the DVD, and no arrogant gym rat jerks either. If I win the lottery, I'll try to hire Tony as my personal trainer; he has a good positive attitude, and seems to keep the workouts real with a sense of humility and humor.
  The segment timer is great. Though the workouts are typically an hour long, he has "chunked" them down into segments, with a "progress bar" on the screen - kind of like the bar on the computer - so you can adjust your pace or your mindset with the workout.
  Tony uses both men and women of differing degrees of flexibility and fitness; there's always a body on the screen up there to help me with my own form.
  I'm a former Marine - and this is used to replace my "daily thirteen." If only I knew about some of these workouts back in the day... So I give it a thumbs up from the perspective of some really challenging workouts I've experienced in the past.
  Overall, a good deal. But be warned, it isn't for the fat couch potato. Like the infomercial says, its for folks that want to get in BETTER shape; the expectation is that you already are in shape and want to take it to the next level.
  
  
  

• Why did I spend all those years in the gym?

  
  By A2A7SO6BBYM13F on 2007-11-20
  There's so many positive things to say about this product it's hard to know where to begin. I'll try to avoid covering too much familiar ground of the other reviews. So let's start by saying this: It absolutely works. What's great about this program is that it addresses ALL your fitness needs. Whereas most workout videos/programs tend to focus on either strength training or cardio or flexibility or target specific areas, P90X does it all. Just be aware that you'll have to invest in a pull up bar (although alternatives are given for substituting power bands, but nothing beats the bar), some dumbells or power bands (the bands work fine if you're looking to tone up or travel with them, but for people really looking to do some work and get their Bruce Lee on, dumbells are a must), a yoga mat, possibly some push-up stands (they're worth it, or you can just use your dumbells if you have the kind shaped like a hex or a square), and a heart-rate monitor isn't bad either. I'm 30 and I've been an avid gym rat since I was 15. This thing beat me up the first time through. Plus, I'm flexible like I've never been before which makes life so much better getting out of bed not being stiff. Best of all, my abs are chiseled better than when I was 20. Tough to argue with that. Alright, enough about me, I think one of the strongest points of this program is it's level of customization.
  
  The way the program works is this: For the first three weeks you'll do strength training workouts on days 1,3, and 5(each bodypart being worked once per week with the exception of the back-you're gonna do A LOT of pull-ups/chin-ups). On days 2,4, and 6 you'll do some form of cardio (yoga, plyo, kenpo). And then on day 7 you have an optional stretch. Then on week 4 you completely remove the resistance days and they're replaced with other types of cardio and stretching (the Core routine is amazing). In weeks 5-7 you keep the same days 2,4, and 6, but you have all new videos for the resistance days so your muscles are forced to adapt and grow and avoid plateauing. Week 8 is the same as week 4, allowing you to catch up for the final push. Weeks 9 and 11 are the same as 1-3, weeks 10 and 12 are the same as 5-7, and then there's the final week, same as 4 and 8. I know it may sound a bit confusing, but it's all laid out very clearly and concisely in the accompanying book. Plus, you'll be doing abs on the resistance days.
  
  What I just described is called P90X Classic. It's the standard arrangement of exercises. Again, here's where the customization comes in. If your goals are more weight loss and slimming down, the book rearranges the videos into what's called P90X Lean, de-emphasizing the resistance training in favor of the fat burning. And for those truly "touched in the head", there's P90X doubles. This has you doing 2 programs per day on certain days, one in the morning and one in the evening. This is truly the ultimate challenge (but also a bit time consuming as you'll need more than 2 free hours per day to dedicate to exercising).
  
  Another great feature of the program is the inclusion of Cardio X. PlyoX is, by far, the toughest of the cardio programs. It will chew you up and spit you out the first few times you try it. For those that find it too difficult or may have some joint issues preventing them from jumping, Cardio X is designed to be a low-impact substitute. Throughout all the different programs, Tony and the crew will show alternate exercises for people that may have some health issues (knees, shoulders, etc. . .).
  
  Some people wonder what's next once they finish. Good question. For most, you'll benefit from going through the program one more time as is. Or, you can try the lean or doubles. Maybe just do the classic again, but try and do things double-time or increase your weights a good deal. It'll probably be a month or so before you're able to truly begin to keep up with the videos the first time through-and then they switch it up on you (that's the beauty of it). So doing it a second time allows you to go hard from day 1. Also, Beachbody is releasing P90X+ in Dec. 07. These are 5 new workouts that you can substitute in to the existing infrastructure. But, be aware, these are for people that have already gone through the entire 'X' or are in world-class shape, as they are more difficult than even their predecessors were. They were designed specifically with the intent of building upon the foundation laid by P90X, by no means are they a jumping on point. Plus, they don't replace all the existing videos, so you would be far from a complete set should you choose to grab just the + programs. But hop over to youtube and put in P90X+ for a preview (I get tired just watching). With the inclusion of these videos, the ability to mix and match as you choose to in order to meet your goals, and the format that allows you to determine intensity and speed, you'll be able to keep your workouts fresh for a very long time.
  
  And once you've gone through the program, you'll get an excellent feel for what each video does and how to customize the program. You may want to increase your flexibility by using the Stretch X and Yoga X a few times per week, supplementing it with some cardio and strength work. Bottom line, the choices are yours. Just remember, these are not for beginners and you will need an hour per day (hour and a half for yoga)-no "30 minutes 3X per week" nonsense here. If you head on over to the P90X website (just google it since we can't use URL's), click on the picture about half way down that says "Learn more about P90X" and then click on "Is P90X for me", there'll be a link to a PDF of the fitness test you can do at home that will give you a good idea of whether or not you're ready to begin the program.
  
  Even with the additional equipment to buy, it is well worth the money. Remember, you're not expected to be able to keep up right away. It'll be quite a while before you do. Go slow and at your own pace. You are encouraged to just keep with it, even if you can only do 1 pull-up, do it and wait for the next exercise to begin. Just stay with it and you'll be amazed at the progress you make. The last thing you want to do it burn yourself out right away. When I first got the program I spent 2 weeks just "walking" through all the routines (and I was still spent). One final note, just be careful if you live in the upstairs of a building as I do, it can make Plyo day a bit disconcerting for the neighbors beneath you if they're not expecting it ;)
  
  

• Good Strong Workout

  
  By AY68U1SJ0UB8B on 2007-08-06
  Okay so I love to go to the gym but I don't always have the time. These workouts are great for when you are home and need a strong workout. Grab a couple weights and do some pushups and pullups and situps etc. Good Militant style workout. My biggest complaint with home workout videos was that they did not have enough exercises for a strength training. These workouts are different. Lots of routines for the price...even if they are a little expensive but worth it for the variety and a quick home workout. One other awesome Feature about the dvds....Once you go threw the videos once and understand the workout you can choose to turn off the instructors voice during the workout and he only speaks when the next execise is up. You can also choose music or no music. Great feature. Turn on some good workout music and get to it. Would buy again. If you need a good strong workout for home and want to build up strength this is good set. Being a guy it is hard to find a strong workout for home on a video. Seen the wifes video but they where just not my type of workout. This is a good workout for a guy or a woman.
  
  

• Not a penny wasted!

  
  By ASPFKVEK93L0L on 2007-11-29
  *Original Power 90 review*
  Let me first say that i'm one of the people that tried the regular Power 90 workout videos at first. I was pretty much a couch potato who would work out once in a while, and then just stop completely for several months. Power 90 is a decent workout for people who are trying to get back into shape who want to get into a mediocre level of fitness; or just maintain an average body.
  Pros for Power 90:
  1.)A good smooth start for beginners. It will get your body in decent shape.
  2.)Short workout time. The workouts last from 35-45 minutes; stretching, warming up, workout, and cool down in all.
  3.)Good mix of everything. Tony incorporates stretching, warming up, and cooling down all at the right times during a workout.
  4.)Has a timer countdown on screen.
  5.)Tony has great direction, tries to motivate you, and tries to be funny. Just by listening to him speak and guiding on how you should do a certain movement/stretch, you get a sense that he actually knows what he's talking about when it comes to fitness.
  6.)Tony TOUCHES, but doesnt dive into what's in the P90X program. He scratches on Stretching, Yoga, Strength training, Cardio, Kicking/Punching. This sets you up and gets you somewhat used to what comes in P90X.
  Cons for Power 90:
  1.)When I saw the routine and the small "studio" they shot this in, I really wasnt impressed. But then again, it was my first workout
  video, so I have nothing to really compare it to. It just gave me the impression that the workout would be cheesy and generic.
  2.)Repetitive. You have Level 1 and Level 2 routines. Basically Cardio Level 1, and Circuit Training level 1. Once you get to level 2, you're pretty much stuck doing the same thing every other day, and it gets old after the first month.
  
  Bottom line for Power 90: If you're only a beginner or would just like to maintain your weight/average body, Power 90 is for you. If you can't get through the regular Power 90, don't try P90X just yet. Work your way up.
  
  
  *And now for P90X Review*
  Like someone already said, the packaging for all 13 DVDs is great, and no excess garbage cases. The Nutrition Guide is very informative and well written, and so is the Workout Book they include. I dont follow the food guide to the 'T' since i'm on a budget, but they include great recipes for pretty much anyone's taste.
  
  The reason I included a review of the regular Power 90 was to express just how impressed I am with the improvement and greatness that the P90X routine is.
  
  Pros over the regular P90:
  1.) The workouts are HARD. Unless you've have an Olympian type body(which 99% of us dont), these workouts will kick your butt. If it doesn't, you're obviously not trying hard enough or doing something wrong.
  2.) No matter what level of fitness or what sport you love to play, you'll benefit from these routines. Tony covers everything to improve flexibility, strength, endurance, and stamina. Any athlete will become an even better one after 90 days.
  3.) Not repetitive. You can go for almost 2 weeks without doing the same workout twice. In the regular Power 90, you only tasted some of the things that P90X has. This expands on EVERYTHING you learn in Power 90; things like Yoga, Strength training, Cardio, High/Low impact movements, Flexibility, etc.
  4.) Price. For 120 bucks, you get the Nutrition guide, Workout Guide, and 1 intro DVD + 12 Workout DVDs. Pretty much under 10 dollars per DVD. That would be about 30$ a month, which is an average cost for going to a gym. In the long run, the program pays for itself.
  5.) In reality, all you need are workout bands and your own body weight to do everything in the program. The key thing is how you use the bands, so you dont necessarily need weights or the pull-up bar. However, if you're trying to bulk up, I recommend using weights.
  6.) Presentation. The workout studio they shoot it looks great and truly fits the atmosphere for the whole P90X image. Direction and guidance from Tony like always, is outstanding. He tells you exactly how to perform a stretch/workout/warmup, why you do it, and where you should feel the burn or stretch. Like someone else pointed out, his workout buddies vary in body types so you can see the results of what each body type can achieve in the end.
  
  Cons:
  1.) The workouts are long. I guess technically this isnt a con, since the program is meant to be (P90)Xtreme.
  2.) Supplements are expensive. I was going to say over-priced, but then I look at the supplements that I personally like taking as an alternative to BeachBody's stuff. BB's supplements dont have as much protein as I like in my post-workout drink.
  
  
  As you can see the Pros greatly outweigh the Cons...which there pretty much isnt.
  Bottom line: Like other reviewers have said, if you're a beginner dont start out on P90X. Start out with Power 90 first. But if you're in decent shape, there's no other program out there that will turn you into a better athlete.
  
  Lastly, follow a good diet. Whether you're trying to lose fat or bulk up, 60% of your results will be from your diet, believe it or not it's true.
  
  

• Diet not good for diabetics

  
  By A1ZKZA10PA8UIQ on 2007-11-08
  The workout itself deserves 10 stars. I've done it and I'll definitely do it again.
  However, the food plan isn't for everyone. I'm diabetic and the first part of the food plan is ok. But when they start to add carbs back in to the plan it goes awry. By the third month they've added lots of refined carbs (pasta) and that's a no-no. They also shy away from healthy fats like olive oil and coconut oil.
  I tried eating their way and I found my blood sugar went way up and I gained weight. I had to go back to eating low glycemic veggies in order to get my glucose levels to normal.
  So, if you have diabetes, please ignore the food plan and stick to what your doctor/nutritionist/dietician told you to eat.
  Other than that the workout is fantastic, challenging, and well worth doing. It'll really firm you up. I put on a few pounds of pure muscle in the 3 months I was on the program.
  
  
  
• No trash, just hard work.
  By A254O5PCXMW7NM on 2007-12-01
  This is the best thing going if your intent is real fitness. There's a lot to say so forgive me if this comes off as a bit disjointed.
  
  Production values: I have no complaints. Tony is a likable guy, his banter is tolerable, and his tips are good. The camera work, music, photography, etc. leave little to be desired. He has three sidekicks in each tape, and they are all nice eye candy for both sexes. They tend to do the typical hard, middle, easy version of the movements which is what you would expect.
  
  Equipment requirements: The only specialized equipment you'll need is a yoga mat, chinup bar, and some dumbbells. The tapes move at a good pace so you should probably get two sets of dumbbells, thats what I have and I find it works. With only one set you will pause the tape too much to adjust. If you can afford and have the space for a full set of hex dumbbells than you have the best possible setup. With two sets of adjustable bells I rarely feel like I'm working too heavy or two light, I just use 15 and 25 pounders. For some movements a five or ten pound plate held in your hands is sufficient.
  
  Difficulty: This is pretty hard. Harder than most workouts by quite a bit. Lots of movements, not a lot of rest time. Certain tapes are tougher than others but you will wipe yourself out on all of them unless you are not trying or are in elite shape.
  
  The tapes: Good variety on a good schedule. If you keep it up you will get fit, there is no way to avoid it. Some of my favorites include Legs / Back, Ab Ripper, Stretching and Yoga, and Core. There are no tapes that I feel are not useful or well done.
  
  The movements: Lots of movements in each tape, not a lot of rest typically. This builds muscle endurance and tone. Good assortment, quite a few movements I've never seen. Expect to make close friends with your pull up bar.
  
  Who should use them: Unless you are verging on morbidly obese I think you can use these tapes, but you will be frustrated and wipe out early. Assess yourself, assess whether you can handle not finishing workouts for quite a while until you get into shape. For most people, though, they can handle these tapes, if they are prepared to start slow and work at it and are of proportional weight. It will be a long time before you reach a fitness level where the tapes don't challenge you. For most people that probably won't ever happen.
  
  Who should not use them: Don't use these if you fall into the following categories:
  
  1) You are determined to get massive as quickly as possible. P90x is not bodybuilding. Its overall fitness. You won't get huge, you'll get strong and have good muscle endurance which helps out in the real world. Pure bodybuilding involves many fewer exercises, fewer reps, much heavier weight, and would be quite difficult to pull off with the P90x limited equipment requirements. Plus you need a special diet to really get the gains.
  
  2) You expect this to be the solution to your weight problems. This will help. A lot. More than enough to satisfy the "get exercise" requirement of any diet. But exercise is not enough. You still, in my experience, need to make friends with hunger, and get used to the fact that you should be somewhat to moderately hungry much of the day if you really want to cut weight. The whole grazing diet craze where you eat 6 small meals a day and never feel the slightest bit hungry sounds great on paper but I never lost weight with it unless I did, in fact, eat small enough meals that I did, in fact, feel significant hunger. Maybe you are different.
  
  3) You have sports specific needs. If you train for sport than you should know what you are doing anyways, or have a coach, so I don't need to say much on that.
  
  What it lacks: The program still has some problems. The cardio routines are all well done, and will get you working, but it is still not as efficient in building endurance as pure cardio like running or swimming and sprinting. I still do them but I add a regular running routine that involves a lot of sprinting. There is no faster way.
  
  The plyometrics routine is good but probably not tough enough to train for sport or develop real explosiveness and power. Too many movements, not enough rest, not enough focus on exploding with 100% of power that a typical sport plyometrics routine would have you do. Its still a good workout though, no question.
  
  Lack of focus on lower back. You'll do some lower back work in some of the tapes but not enough to prevent injury long term if you have a history in my opinion. This is probably an equipment limitation. I supplement the tape by doing a workout once a week consisting of barbell dead lifts and barbell good mornings and my back doesn't go out anymore, thank God. Three sets of each, go heavy, max effort then some downward dog and child's pose to stretch it out. Stretch and warm up beforehand, obviously. Your lower back will be like steel cables if you do this. I also do heavy squats in the same workout since they are the key to overall body strength but the legs routine is plenty for most people.
  
  Some of the worksheets are not as detailed as I would like, and are missing exercises, especially the legs worksheet. They are also frustratingly small.
  
  All in all if you do p90x you will have real fitness that you can use in the real world. You won't impress other guys at the bar with how big and buff you are, but if you can keep your weight under control you will end up ripped and toned, and most people agree thats the most appealing look anyways for both sexes.
  
  Just expect to work hard to get it. Fitness isn't free. Good luck to you.
  
  Disclaimer: I don't do the p90x diet plan nor do I use their supplements and recovery drinks. Too expensive for me and I can whip those up on my own by doing some research. For all I know they are awesome but in reality if you eat a varied healthy diet and maybe drink some grape juice immediately after working out and then a meal after you've cleaned yourself up you should be good to go.
  
  
• A basics approach to fitness.
  By A2I2X580RI8MYN on 2007-10-24
  A great aspect of this workout program is the fact that you need very little to actually use it.
  A few dumbbells you can find at Wal-Mart, a 10 dollar door frame chin-up bar and a good, strong chunk of willpower is just about all you need. If you're like me and wanted to get something to use on the road while you're away from your basement gym, this is perfect.
  If you don't have a basement gym, this is still perfect.
  
  Not everyone has the same body type, and the people performing for you on this DVD reflect that. The people run the gambit of body types, from taller and bigger to leaner. It does a great job showing results possible for several different body types.
  
  A warning, this workout set will kick your body HARD at first. You will not be able to finish most of the workouts, don't hurt yourself trying to. Go as far as your muscles will allow you (your muscles will literally stop working. You will reach "failure" and that's what you want.) and then stop. Rest.
  
  Take it slow in the beginning. Try to ignore the pep-squad style yammering of the coach unless you need the encouragement and enjoy the results.
  
  
• So Worth It
  By A6LIVO8NFFVTF on 2007-12-19
  This was the first in home workout I have ever done and thought I would never do one.
  
  But for some reason this one caught my attention and has held it. I am in my second round of this workout and using the food plan this time. The first time I lost 8 inches around my chest and waist and a good deal of weight, and that was without the food plan. i did not eat nachos everynight but I did follow the workouts...
  
  Let me say this, I was overweight and way out of shape, and found it hard to get started, but with motivation and determination that this place provides I am almost a year into my weight loss and I have kept it off.
  
  I have faltered and fell at times, only to get back on the wagon, and I have to say this without sounding cheesy...but this thing really changed my life.
  
  If you get this be sure to get bands or a pull up bar...it will make a huge differance
  
  If you want more info you can contact me and I will help all i can...
  
  If you buy it...use it...and you will transform your body
  
  
• Plateau Buster
  By A22VX08ON718WA on 2008-01-06
  I agree with all of the postive reviews described earlier for this product. This is the only "infomercial" product that I have ever purchased, and I did so because I could tell it was the real deal. No quick fixes, just a solid plan to follow for someone who is willing to work hard. A few thoughts:
  
  1. This is an advanced workout system. I had been working out in a gym for 6 years and was in excellent shape, but had hit a plateau and was looking for something to take me to the next level fitness wise. This has exceeded my expectations in that regard. Despite my good level of fitness to begin with, I still found the program to be very, very challenging! This is not for beginners.
  
  2. A few of the individual DVDs in this package are "lifetime" workouts (ie. I can see myself doing them for years to come), including Plyo, Yoga X, Legs/Back, and X-stretch. The other workouts are all excellent as well, but to avoid plateauing it would be best to cycle in and out of these workouts once you complete the 90 day program (they have just issued a follow on program called P90X+ that would be the logical next step).
  
  3. Nutrition: As Jack LaLanne is fond of saying, "Exercise is King and Diet is Queen. Together you have a Kingdom". Eating clean (following their guidelines) is key to maximum results. It's 80% nutrition and 20% exercise to achieve the results you see on TV.
  
  4. My P90X package came with two "bonus workouts", which are from the P90 Master Series (UML and Cardio Intervals). The Cardio Intervals workout is actually more demanding than the Cardio X workout that is part of the P90X system, but not as demanding as the Plyo X workout. It's a great addition to the whole system. I use it when I want something less intense than Plyo X. Cardio X is a workout for an easy day in my view. UML stands for Upper-Middle-Lower, a 30 minute full body workout that you might do on a day when you're short of time. There are some very challenging exercises on UML.
  
  5. Kenpo X - nice workout but doesn't really get the heart rate up too high for me (this is supposed to be a cardio workout). I'm told that many P90X fans deal with this by wearing weighted gloves and/or ankle weights and that solves the problem. I have yet to try that, but it sounds like it would work fine.
  
  6. Plyo X - a great workout (my favorite actually), but somewhat high impact. If you have knee, feet or shin problems, you can do this workout but in the modified fashion that they show you. This is so hard, cardiovascularly, that I was not able to finish it the first time I tried it (I was trying to keep up with a guy in the video who has a prosthetic leg; he's tougher than I am). I'm a former track and cross country runner by the way, including interval work, so I'm no stranger to tough cardio workouts. Still, I found this one to be very tough, which is why I like it.
  
  7. Equipment: you can do this program without a chin up bar and without weights. You'd instead use resistance bands. However, I tried doing the program with just the bands for the first month and found myself constantly wishing I had a bar and weights, so I went out and bought a chin up bar (the Door Gym which is great) and a set of adjustable dumbbells (I bought Power Blocks which are terrific; Bowflex SelectTechs are also terrific). I still use the bands for certain exercises, but I like the flexibility of having multiple "tools" to use to achieve the best result.
  
  Overall, an outstanding product. High quality, very professional, no gimmicks. Just a solid plan for improved fitness that truly does work.
  
  
• Outstanding workout; NOT a gimmick in any way!
  By A2I9EPR6WWN4DV on 2007-10-20
  I'm not going to repeat the other great reviews, but I just wanted to drop my review into Amazon for other customers, so they know that this workout program IS NOT a gimmick. You may see it on TV normally around resolution time in January but I wanted to assure the fellow consumer that this workout is a very well put together product. And it does require a strong committment to continue through the program. I found the diet program to be a little cumbersome at first, but I found as long as I ate in accordance with a healthy diet system like Abs Diet for instance, I was fine and I still saw results the same way. P90X stands for Power 90--EXTREME; this is NOT for someone who's been sedentary in their fitness lifestyle. Get Power Half Hour or the regular Power 90 if that is you. I was in relatively good shape when I started it and it kicked my butt. But I stuck with it and it took my fitness levels up permanently a few notches and though I may let myself go a little bit from time to time, I'm still in great shape because of sticking to P90X. If you don't like getting up to go to the gym all the time, this is a GREAT alternative.
  
  
• Whoa........What a workout!!!
  By A2V0F1OTNTB148 on 2007-11-15
  First off let me say that I am a 23 year old male who has consistently been working out at a gym since I was 16. I have always felt it was only women who use fitness videos. After watching the P90x informercial I decided to order this product but was skeptical working out at home would be as effective as the gym. After completing the 90 day bootcamp, let me say wow. I went from 14 to 8% bodyfat, my chest, arms, and abs are ripped and I feel great, I am in the best shape of my life by far. Even though I am done with this 90 day program I still use it everyday because I enjoy it so much more than going to a gym. Tony and co. make you feel like you are working out with a bunch of friends which makes this workout more enjoyable. This was the best $150 bucks I have ever spent, just remember to Bring It!
  
  
• Surprisingly good, and I'm a trainer!
  By A1YZ41MRTSXISM on 2007-12-30
  I'm a trainer and I've bought a LOT of fitness DVDs in the last several years. Most of them are crap. Really. So, I saw the infomercial for P90X and checked it out online. Finally made the purchase. And....I'm really impressed. The workouts aren't for wimps, which is exactly what I find people really want. My clients like to be pushed and Tony really pushes, but safely. I like that he's not too macho nor too egotistical to back off and say, 'Hey, I've done enough.'
  
  The only complaint I have is: (in my opinion) every one of the DVDs in the package need to say: These results are from healthy eating AND hard work. Too many DVDs give the exercises and never mention nutrition, which is the real secret to getting a toned body. I see so many clients who can do hundreds of crunches with no problem but have no idea why they don't have the 'six-pack'. It's what you eat!!
  
  Otherwise, great job. I look forward to seeing more DVDs from P90X.
  
  
  
  
• Changed my Life and Mindset! AWESOME!
  By A1RYS26SGP6OOP on 2008-04-22
  Before I got this I thought the ab muscles in 300 were a digital special effect. I though there was no way someone could be in that sort of shape.
  
  I'd seen the infomercials a few times and was skeptical. 90 days and I would be super fit? I'm really skinny.
  
  But then I thought, "I guess it makes sense. If you workout everyday for an hour or more, and eat right, you should get really fit." If the infomercial was telling me I just had to workout every other day for 15 minutes I wouldn't believe it, but it was really asking me to commit to something.
  
  Now I'll tell you it is a huge commitment. I did it for 4 weeks and then started school and did not have any free time to do it. Most of the time it would take me 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the workout. But in those 4 weeks I made so many muscles. My face got thinner and muscles I didn't know you were supposed to have showed up.
  
  I didn't use it for about 18 weeks when I was really busy. I thought I lost everything I did in 4 weeks, and then I started again. After 1 week everything I had before came back. I've been doing it now for 3 weeks, so I'm only 1 month into it, but let me say I'm getting awesome fit. I am so excited. I am happy to be where I am just after a month, but I might as well go for superfit.
  
  It is an extremely intense workout. You do what you can and you get better. The ab workout is about 3 days a week, 16 minutes long, but is the most intense thing ever. After a while though you can feel the muscles you are building and it feels great.
  
  I don't want to just be a muscle head, so I'm glad core, cardio, and yoga are included. This actually really turned me onto Yoga. The whole thing, exercising and everything has really pulled me out of the more depressed state I used to be in. I feel so good about myself now.
  
  I did spend a lot of money getting set up. I bought bowflex selecttech weights. I bought bands to simulate pullups. I bought pushup stands. I bought a yoga mat. I spend about $20 a month on recovery drinks. I use accelerade which is great, keeps my muscles from ever aching. I spend about $20 a month on vitamins.
  
  I am very impressed. I would say my physique is now rival to some guys I know that work at gyms and take tons of weight gaining supplements. I see some of these guys with tiny legs or shoulders or weak backs or abs. I'm getting the full workout here. I'm even surprised how much muscle I've been putting on without supplements. I am also a vegetarian and just eating lots of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains.
  
  IT IS WORTH THE INVESTMENT OF YOUR MONEY AND TIME. IT IS HARD WORK, BUT IT WORKS.
  
  
• 49 Years Old, 9.8% Body Fat, and in Best Shape of My Life...
  By A2VPPVYMHXUXK6 on 2008-07-17
  Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1X5DXPUXJHB7E My name is Blake Warrington and I just turned 49 and am in the best shape of my life. P90X is Extreme Home Fitness, but will get you ripped. The cool thing is you need nothing more than some push-up bars, a chin-up bar, a set of dumbbells, and a "Bring It" attitude.
  
  Also, when you purchase P90X new through Amazon you get the chance to win up to $1,000 every day you workout in the Beachbody Million Dollar Body Game. You just log in your P90X workout into their WOWY (Work Out With You) online gym, do your workout and you are logged in to the daily drawing. My wife won $300 just before last Christmas - it's way cool.
  
  Feel free to hit me up via email and ask any questions you have about P90X - either before or after you buy it. I Would love to help you succeed with this program. BRING IT!
  
  
• This rocks...
  By A595T15OO91DC on 2008-08-04
  Just throwing my two cents into the ring. I used to lift weights in my early 20s and then fell off the wagon. Stayed relatively thin and kept some semblance of fitness in a labor intensive job but wasn't in shape.
  
  My wife is a personal trainer and exercise videos and infomercials abound in our home, all promising the same things. I just never got it. However, I had begun a small workout routine using body weight exercises (didn't want to have to hit the gym again) of push-ups, pull-ups and an ab routine for several weeks and then I saw the infomercial for this. I was captivated. So we got it.
  
  It will radically transform you if you "bring it" as they repeat frequently. It's a 90 day program, about an hour a day (an hour and a half for the yoga), six days a week. It is time consuming and requires a commitment. But if you do this for those 90 days, even just one cycle, you will transform not only your body but your overall level of fitness and your mental state will be greatly improved by pushing you beyond what you thought you could accomplish.
  
  With a great mixture of muscle building, cardio endurance and functional fitness, this is really a well-rounded program. I went through it once, did it loosely for several months and have jumped back in the ring for another round (P90X Plus is on the way). I am a changed man.
  
  At 40 years old, my cardio stamina, my muscular ability and my flexibility are even better than when I was in my 20s. I could never touch my toes. Ever. Until now. I used to get winded riding my bike up the block to get air in the tire. Now I can ride around the city now barely breaking a sweat. I may not be able to whip off 50 pull-ups but I'm over 10 and can do over 30 push-ups with ease. Not bad for a guy who could barely do 2 pull-ups and 15 push-ups when starting. You may not see me on the cover of some men's magazine but I can honestly say I am in the best shape of my life.
  
  This seems to be in every one of the reviews.
  
  Most of the muscle building workouts use your bodyweight - didn't realize there were so many varieties of push-ups and pull-ups - and the rest use dumbbells. Each routine adds up to about 24 exercises in roughly 45 minutes along with about eight or nine minutes of stretching before and about three or four minutes of stretching after (which are a must). Some routines are 12 exercises repeated twice, others are 24 individual exercises, all done in rapid succession which fatigues the muscles quickly and brings the results.
  
  The other exercise days mix it up, giving your muscles a little relief but giving your cardio and flexibility a boost. The Plyometric routine is brutal and will work your cardio system intensely but it will get you into shape if you push it. I got through about twenty minutes of it the first time. But then it was twenty-five, then thirty and finally I could finish. Now I look forward to it.
  
  Though the Yoga routine is comparatively long (an hour and a half) and requires focus to do, I fell in love with it. It's not the stare at your navel kind of yoga. This is intense. Think you're strong? Wait 'til you have to do a Warrior Three and a half-moon after having moved for forty-five minutes straight without stopping. You will sweat hard even when it looks like you're not doing anything. The added benefits are flexibility and a great sense of well-being when finished.
  
  The Kenpo routine is a lot of fun and is probably the lightest routine of the bunch but a nice way to end the week.
  
  In the 'rest' week in between Phases is added a Core Synergism routine which didn't feel very fluid at first but I've begun to see the point of it and have begun to notice strength in my core. Also added is a Stretch routine which is a refreshing break. A Cardio routine is optional which can be done in place of Plyo or can be used in addition to the regular routine to really kick up the game. It takes elements of all the other workouts just listed above and really does a number on the cardio system. There is enough here to mix and match and keep you fit evey beyond the initial 90 days.
  
  Tony Horton is a jovial guy, kind of annoying at first and something of a show-off, but in time I found him to be very motivational. He is 45 in this video and when you watch him rip off pull-ups like he is light as air and blasts out 20 push-ups with hands and feet leaving the ground, you'll be convinced. He stumbles on occasion (struggles with balance postures) and botches up some phrases ('hit the bause putton') but this makes it more real. He's a great coach and I know the scripts by heart which keeps it flowing. Tony is the man. "Do your best and forget the rest" is the mantra.
  
  I cannot attest to the diet or the supplements and the equipment we use is a bar drilled into the rafters in my basements and a set of dumbbells. No need to get all fancy.
  
  It's hard, it's work, it's intense and it requires serious commitment. But it's worth every penny and every minute.
  
  P.S. Try Ab Ripper X without shoes first. When you get good at it, add the shoes.
  
  
• Everything I expected
  By A32TEKYH2L8CNZ on 2007-09-25
  I bought this product online after seeing it on TV. I think I burned calories jumping up and down waiting for it to come.
  It is an intense workout, but the routines are adaptable if you are not as strong or do not have all of the equipment.
  It takes a LOT of discipline. You either get it or you don't.
  The eating plan is a bit confusing...but if you follow the general advice to "eat clean," you'll do ok.
  I recommend getting a diet/exercise journal along with this (ISBN 1-59868-360-8)
  Although the price is a bit steep, it's a little cheaper than most gym memberships.
  Most of all, don't think you can do this if you haven't worked out in a while. This is for people who already work out regularly and are already in good shape....... THIS IS NOT A DIET PLAN!
  
  
  
• good training but annoying Tony
  By A2HM5N15TMERF1 on 2007-12-22
  This is definitely an excellent workout.
  But, Tony is VERY annoying. he talks too much in between sets. He models the exercises well, but once you've got the hang of each DVD, you don't want to hear him talk and make annoying comments. Also, he wastes too much time between sets with the talking and redundant instruction.
  It's too bad he didn't make an instruction DVD separately, then just made straight workouts with no instruction on the other DVD.s
  
  
  
  
• Great value, real quick pros and cons
  By A3VLL3RCTVYU7H on 2008-02-25
  My wife and I started with this video 5 weeks ago and we are still going strong. It is the first work out the we both enjoy, which makes it easier to stay dedicated.
  
  Pros: The workouts are all challenging. With each routine they clearly demonstrate numerous variations to each of the exercises that increase or decrease the intensity. This is good for beginners, but also ensures that you will not out grow the series. There are so many different routines which, I believe, will help you get the best, most well rounded work out of your life. There several fantastic work outs, like Plyometrics and Kenpo, that I have never previously attempted.
  
  If you never use it past 90 days, it will be well worth every penny; however, my wife and I do the work outs together (which helps!) and are planning to mix it up once we complete the program in 30 more days.
  
  Cons: The only reason I took off a star was for the Yoga routine. It is looooong (90 minutes) and repetitive. About half way through our first day with Yoga, I found myself thinking, "if I have to do one more downward dog I am going to flush this routine!" That being said, I can report that I have become less resistant to Yoga than when I started. Good luck!
  
  
  
• No pain, no gain!
  By A2LUJINJYU5G9E on 2008-05-22
  Tony Horton came off as the most obnoxious fitness trainer I've ever heard and at first it was hard to make it through the DVD's, and I struggled with my rating because of it. In the end though, I decided to give the product 5 stars because overall the product was tremendous! I thought if I gave it a three or four star rating it would discourage readers from buying the product based on aspects outside of the workout itself and that would be a mistake. I say that with a caveat; you may need to turn the volume down and just follow the workout.
  PRO90X is one of the rare products advertised via infomercial that delivers what it promises. The product is handsomely packaged and not overly pretentious. Tony Horton leads all of the workouts along with people of varying body types, which is a courageous departure from the norm.
  Be forewarned however that this product is as advertised, "For those who want to get in BETTER shape!" Do not kid yourself, if you haven't been working out you SHOULD NOT attempt this workout. The modules are strategically placed in a killer chronological sequence and produces results whether you're eating right or not; trust me. Having been in the military for several years, I wouldn't be surprised to see this product introduced to the special operations components of the Armed Forces. You can take the workout just about anywhere and you don't need much equipment. You do however need to bring some guts, because the PRO90X workout is a killer workout for those wanting to get to the next level of fitness.
  
  
  
• 50 years old and in the best shape of my life
  By A1IOP879N38NTB on 2008-06-21
  There are so many great reviews of this product already here but I felt compelled to add my own. I have been running and doing yoga for years and was in reasonably good shape (5'11" 180lbs) when I started P90X but was feeling blue about recently turning 50 and wanted to see if I could get in better shape. You should be aware that to be successfull on P90X, you also need to change your diet. This is very important. There is a diet book that comes with P90X, I did not follow it too closely but took away some key points: more lean protein, no dessert, no junk, reduce alchohol, cut back on carbs(initially , later in the program you need carbs). The most important diet pointers are to eat several small meals throughout the day and to not eat within 2 hours of going to bed. You need to set aside time to do this program, at least 1 hr per day, 6 days a week and 1.5 hrs on the yoga day (once a week , except twice a week for 3 of the weeks).
  That being said it works and I actually began to look forward to the workouts(after a few weeks). In 90 days I lost 17 lbs and gained a lot of strength. I went from size 34 pants being tight to size 32 being loose. When I started I could do 5 pullups(I thought that was pretty good at the time), now I can do 12. The workouts are tough, you have to adopt their motto that they start every DVD with "BRING IT". You need to live that. I wish this program was around 20 years ago, I have spent so much on gyms, yoga DVDs, yoga classes, etc. Nothing I have done has gotten in the kind of shape P90X did. Enjoy!
  
  
• Progressive workouts, Great Variety
  By A25H1BDZ74G74U on 2007-08-11
  I really like to strength train at home and this video has some great strength training routines you can do at home. I have also purchased the Ultimate Body Press - Dip Machine / Dip Bars for more intense strength training options at home.
  
  
• P90X DVD review
  By A1BJHCIV6OLT63 on 2007-11-21
  These DVDs arrived in perfect condition. I did my research before purchasing these and knew I was in for a challenge...but I had no idea they would be so tough! The yoga and legs/back workouts are particularly challenging. That said, I do like the variety and fast pace of these workouts, and after four weeks I am seeing results (more muscle tone and less fat). I would recommend these for someone in moderate to good shape.
  
  
• Lives up to the hype
  By A3H4IJ9QONM0JK on 2008-07-08
  I'm a practicing medical doctor (disclaimer--I'm not giving you any specific medical advice on individual level) and have worked out about 4-5 days a week for years. This is the BEST workout program I have ever tried. Its also the most complete in 1 package approach I've seen. It takes some very cutting edge stuff in excercise science & makes it reality.
  What I really like about it is it gives a very effective workout & you get faster results because of its use of muscle confusion which gives more efficient work outs because the muscle groups are constantly changed. It also works out all the major muscle groups & gives cardio, yoga, martial arts & stretching in addition to simple strength training. It also gives a book on dieting. Each specific part-the strength training, dieting, cardio, nutrition, they are all in tune modern scientific knowledge. Even the martial arts DVD has you doing moves that are real martial arts (& I've taken martial arts lessons for years). I'm no yoga expert, but people I know who have done it for years were impressed with its yoga DVD.
  I have found this DVD more effective than working out in a high end gym for about 1 hr a day. You don't need much equipment, about $150 worth of equipment tops (some dumbells, a pull up bar, you can get more but this is all you really need).
  The only thing I didn't like about this series is you have to spend over an hour a day on several of the workouts. This is very time consuming though you will see results fast. I suggest that some of the portions of the workout be performed at double speed on the DVD player such as warm up & stretching to save time. I've been able to cut the workout down by about 10-15 minutes (to about 45-55 minutes a day) but in my opinion I get the same benefits because I do think the stretching & warm up are on the long side. Aside from that I think this DVD series is the best there is.
  
  
• Yes, it is for real!
  By A2DT792LV7VZH4 on 2008-05-03
  I purchased this after having it recommended to me by my boot camp instructor and a friend who is a nutritionist. I will say I was a little hesitant, as I am about anything that has an infomercial. But after doing the program, I will have to say it is as legit as it gets. It kicked my butt...even the Yoga X is rough to get through. This program is NOT for someone who is out of shape...you should be in pretty decent shape to start it unless you want to spend a lot of your time just resting. If you are just starting out, go for the Power 90 instead. At any rate, my fat percentage went to half of what it was, I went from pushing an almost 38 waist to a 32 and from 230 lbs to 205. I am almost 6-4 and a pretty big guy...this program just toned and cut me up like nothing else. The nutrition program is spot on too...no gimmicks, just good healthy eating. I had tried Tae Bo and several other programs, but nothing compared to P90X. FYI, I am not a coach for P90X and do not sell any of their goods...just wanted to give a good honest review about it. Bottom line, if you follow the program, you will get in the best shape of your life.
  
  Thought I should edit this...as of Sept 08, I now AM a coach for Beachbody...product has helped me so much, I decided to join in and try to help others with it. Just as an update, I am on my 2nd 90 days and I have gone from 24% body fat down to 16%. My goal is 12% and I fully expect to attain it this year! I still love the product and it works great!
  
  
• P90x isn't a workout, it is a philosophy.
  By AYKG70DVFYST8 on 2008-02-20
  You can tell that alot of time was spent making this a complete workout program. From diet to encouragement to recording before, during and after results [...] and Tony Horton have put together an excellent package. I had been working out hard, running and doing sports coming into the program and it is still challenging. The warm ups are great because I have a tendancy to shirk the warm up and cool down.
  
  
• Great workout but needs better tracking system
  By A2BI5NDSOZJV6O on 2008-03-21
  P90X is by far the most challenging, varied, and effective workout system on the market. It takes commitment but the results are real and worth every bit of sweat this will cost you. The only shortcoming is the limited progress tracking tools included with the package. For a 90 day program with 12 workouts, a complex schedule, and nutrition, the paper recording sheets they provide simply don't cut it. There is a cheap Excel worksheet though that fills that gap very nicely. It's called P90Xcel and it's available on eBay or directly from workoutsoft.com. Like Tony would say: "I highly recommend it".
  
  
• Wish I found P90X earlier!
  By A3O9JV010BDN9F on 2008-06-15
  At the risk of repeating what's been written before, I wanted to provide my thoughts on P90X.
  
  To provide a little background, I'm a 46 year-old male and have been working out consistently since 2001 at the YMCA. (The Y's in Middle Tennessee are fantastic!) Back then, I completed the Body for Life program from Bill Phillips and lost 40 lbs. Since then, I've maintained through moderate workouts and martial arts. I typically worked out 2-5 times per week. So, I thought I was in reasonably good shape.
  
  In January this year, I had a close friend turn me on to P90X. Let me tell you that it is a fantastic program. I have seen major improvements in muscle tone, strength, and stamina. As has been said before, I would definitely recommend that you be in decent shape before taking this on. Even though I had been working out consistently, P90X tore me up at the beginning. If you are pushing it, you will be SORE during the first week and probably the second week as well. When the routine changes again in week 5, you will be sore again.
  
  I'm not saying that you can't do this program if you are not in shape. I've got friends that hadn't worked out for decades and are doing it. But, you will not be able to complete the workouts. You will have to work your way in to it.
  
  It has certainly been worth the price. When I think about it, I would call it the best investment in fitness I've ever made. For a couple hundred dollars, you can get all of the instruction and equipment you'll need to take your fitness to a new level. The price of the DVD's and necessary equipment is far less than expensive workout equipment or even a year's membership at a health club. This is truly a bargain.
  
  One of my big concerns before starting P90X was working out at home. I've tried it before and failed because I just couldn't seem to push myself. But, P90X pushes you by setting a very aggressive pace and Tony Horton does a good job of motivating you. However, he can get a bit annoying.
  
  For me, the most difficult aspect of the program is the diet. It requires way too much discipline for me. To do it right, you need to do a good bit of food prep the night before. I have children and I just don't want to take time away from the family to make meals for the next day. Also, my wife doesn't like the idea of me eating something different for dinner than what she has prepared. My recommendation would be to try something similar to the diet in Body for Life which is 6 small meals a day. It still takes some discipline. But, it is far easier to do than the diet in P90X and still brings good results in combination with the workout program.
  
  My recommendation is to get P90X if you are serious about getting results. I would say the dropout rate is high because it is so darned difficult. But, you will get great results if you stick with it.
  
  
  
• This ain't Tae bo
  By AXTYB6TWNVYJ5 on 2008-02-20
  I have worked out about 3 times a week with free weights for about 4 years. The first day I did this I had to stop about 30 min into the 50 min workout and puke. The workouts will push you. This program is probably best classified as circuit training. I plan to use this program in the future as a winter program when its hard to get outside or when I want a break from my regular free weight workouts.
  
  
• How P90X affects 2 different body types
  By A9O6QMF9OXWRB on 2008-06-12
  The Short: P90X is an intense yet enjoyable workout that has yielded real results for my roommate and me. The workouts are well structured and leave you toned, flexible and in great cardiovascular shape.
  
  The Specifics: I ran track/cross country in college and had the skinny runner body. My goal was to tone and build. No, you can't be in body building competitions with P90X, but I've put on 10 lbs of muscle using the program and my friends from college saw my arms and accused my of being on steroids. So you can definitely gain size if you go low rep, high weight. I also upped my bench about 15 lbs. just on push-ups, so that's impressive.
  
  My roommate, on the other hand was about 40 lbs overweight when he started the program. He was fairly athletic, so he could do most of the moves, but still, he had quite a mountain to climb. He lost 25lbs, while still not in perfect shape, looks good and his athletic performance has skyrocketed.
  
  Though this is a program for fit people, modestly in shape people will benefit from the modified moves Tony consistently presents for those looking for something not quite so challenging. Tony is quotable, and sure, sometimes annoying, but his focus on form and attitude is an overall positive.
  
  I didn't use the diet guide, but I do eat pretty well. I also supplemented protein shakes. I still do upper body P90x twice a week and bench once a week and continue to see muscle gains.
  
  Highly, highly, highly recommended.
  
  
  
• Better than the gym
  By ANXLGUE6HTR28 on 2008-02-29
  I love this program. Does all areas: Strength, Cardio, Yoga/flexibility, Core/abs. Is a little longer than my other videos, but I needed that. Did have to buy a pullup bar, but it really took my workout to the next level. Wow, I have been trying to tone the flab on my arms for years with no success until now. I have been trying to define my abs more for years with no success until now. I don't do the plyo every week like you are supposed to b/c it is very hardcore. I have mixed my other cardio videos with this strength after completing the 90 days to keep up the strength but no kill my shins too much, as a female. Only downfall, as a advanced exercise level person, there is too much rest/tony talking time inbetween exercises, which is much needed at the beginning of the first half of the 90 days, but afterwards, I was ready to speed through the resting periods. This is when we purchased a full stand pull up bar stand and now I am back to the beginning. The doorway pull up bars are great to start and then you can get a stand pullup bar to get a greater exercise.
  
  

• Everlast Multi Function Chinning Bar
• Creative Fitness Door Gym
• P90X Chin-Up Bar - Pull Up Bar - Used with Tony Horton's P90X Program
• GoFit Chin-Up Bar
• SPRI ES502R Xertube Resistance Band with Door Attachment and Exercise Charts (Blue, Heavy)