from dead stop to exercise programs

wearystar

i'm a student and work more than part time as a cashier, so although i am no sloth i don't have much time (or money) for the gym so i get in far less exercise than i should...
i see people doing video work outs like 30 day shred, insanity, p90x and their getting great results. i love doing that kind of exercise (when i'm in shape) so a few months ago i tried to do insanity but i guess it's been so long since i worked out on a regular basis it was so damn hard for me to get through a whole session and then i was so sore the next days i could barely function at work.
so i want to know if you have done any of these programs do you have to ease in? or do you just jump in feet first and walk around stiff as a board for the first few weeks? especially if you haven't been doing much exercise previously.

ms_tris

The thirty-day shred has levels (1,2, and 3) and they offer "modified" versions of most of the exercises for beginners. I think completing all three levels of 30 day shred would prepare a person (somewhat) for the intense craziness of Insanity. :0) If you don't "ease in" you risk injuring yourself or feeling defeated by not being able to complete the workout. IMO, it's better to go the safer (albeit a bit slower) route.