At the gym I frequent, there’s been a lot of chatter about the exercise program P90X. I know I’ve written about home work-outs before, but I thought I should go into a little detail on this new program. For anyone unfamiliar with this program, it claims that you are guaranteed a ripped body in 90 days. How does this work? Allow me to explain.
The P90X program works by utilizing something called muscle confusion. Wait. Are your muscles supposed to be confused? Actually, muscle confusion is a training principle focused on creating variety in your training.
The reason the P90X uses this principle is because muscle confusion prevents plateaus, allowing a continual increase in your muscle mass. Plateaus happen when muscles become accustomed to a training program, and this can occur quite quickly. We need to develop different exercises and perform a variety of sets and repetitions.
The best way to do this is to cycle your training program. Four week cycles are pretty typical. By changing your training program every four weeks, your muscles can’t get used to the exercises. And there’s where the confusion part kicks in. The continual changes cause your muscles to grow more quickly than with any other training method.
Now, back to the P90X program. If you want to try it out, know that it will require lots of determination. However, it will work if you follow the program including the nutritional plan.
Time requirement? Plan to train at least one hour a day for six days a week. And a fair warning – at times it can be quite strenuous.
And cost? The program does require minimal equipment, such as 2 dumb bells, or elastic bands and a pull up bar. Depending on the quality of equipment you purchase in addition to the cost of the P90X DVDs, the program can cost you anywhere from $120-500.
However, it’s worth noting that if you do six hours of good strength training and cardio a week and eat well, you’ll inevitably see results. For those who need some structure, though, P90X may just give you the motivation you need to get it done!
Finally, some parting advice: You should consult your physician before starting any exercise program.
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