P90X and Fat
_Khaleesi_
Posts: 877 Member
So I was doing some research on exercise programs as I am hoping to kick one off again this week. I was going to do P90X, but the research I was doing kept coming back to say, "don't do P90X until you are within 20 lbs of your goal weight." If you do it before this, you are going to add muscle but the thick layer of fat on top of it won't go anywhere and you will underwhelmed at the results. P90X is a muscle building program and not a fat loss program, I was informed. Do something to lose the excess fat first, then P90X when you are ~15 lbs from your goal weight. (http://www.fitlifesf.com/2009/06/women-not-losing-weight-on-p90x/)
I still have a ways to go to get to my goal. I want to lose weight. I want to see the number on the scale continue to fall. So should I be waiting to do P90X? Should I start something else to lose the fat first like they recommend? If so... what should I be looking into? I hate hate HATE running...
I still have a ways to go to get to my goal. I want to lose weight. I want to see the number on the scale continue to fall. So should I be waiting to do P90X? Should I start something else to lose the fat first like they recommend? If so... what should I be looking into? I hate hate HATE running...
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Replies
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The Lean Workout Schedule focuses more on cardio conditioning than resistance exercises. This schedule is perfect for those people that want to start slow or have a lot more weight to loss. It will allow you to trim down significantly before putting on muscle.0
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I did P90X first and then found Insanity. I wish I had started with Insanity it is much Interval cardio training it kicks butt! It is really hard but if you go at the pace you can handle you will see results!0
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You could try Insanity! It is an "insane" cardio workout that will help you lose the weight!0
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Apologies if this is obvious - is the "Lean Workout Schedule" part of P90X? Are there different routines that you can choose? I thought P90X was a specific program, a specific set of routines. Is there a program/path/routine within P90X that is more cardio vs. muscle-building? Or is that just a part of the whole workout?The Lean Workout Schedule focuses more on cardio conditioning than resistance exercises. This schedule is perfect for those people that want to start slow or have a lot more weight to loss. It will allow you to trim down significantly before putting on muscle.0 -
I would recommend doing the "lean" track for P90X. I have used the program several times in the past while cross-training. I don't particularly like lifting and have found I can get good results by focusing on their cardio workouts only.0
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i think p90 is the program that is geared for weight loss if you want to try that first before moving on to p90x0
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I guarantee if you do P90X and eat even half decent food you will lose fat. You couldn't possibly avoid it.
The Lean schedule is one way of doing P90X. There are three different ways depending on your goals. Or you can mix it up yourself.0 -
BUILDING MUSCLE is the best way to burn fat!! People are so confused. Cardio can destroy muscle if you do it excessively. P90X is good stuff, but you need to change your diet.
Check out a post from Stroutman81:
"That's the nature of most people. They completely miss the forest for the trees. They don't see the big picture. And what's worse... they turn everything into a false dichotomy. "I either have to do strength training OR cardio." Earth to person X: "A balanced approach provides you balanced results. If you're solely looking for weight loss, that's fine. But if you're looking for balanced results, meaning fat loss and muscle maintenance/growth, which is necessary to reach the body most people are shooting for, then you need to take a more deliberate approach to your exercise." If anything, cardio isn't even necessary. Nutrition can take care of a deficit for fat loss. But nothing can take care of muscle maintenance like strength training. So if I were going to prioritize anything, it'd be lifting weights. But again, that assumes you're doing this to look better and not solely hit some number on the scale. And I should also say that you can certainly look better by solely focusing on losing weight, but you have to a) get lucky with your genetics and b) expect suboptimal results. "
", then weights should be prioritized since cardio doesn't do much of anything in terms of body composition except for aid a calorie deficit."0 -
Kenneth - P90X has different schedules for their program. So the lean program tells you to do XYZ workout this day, ABC this day, rest this week, do PDQ on this day, etc. Depending on the schedule program, you'll either be doing DVDs and routines based more in cardio or strength.
I'm 70 pounds from goal, and I do P90X. I want to build lean muscle because muscle is more effecient than fat. AND I want to be strong. I have been consistently losing weight and inches at a safe and maintainable speed for three months.
"They" say weight loss is 80% diet and 20% exercise. I totally think that's pretty accurate in my case. It's all about what you want out of your fitness journey though. Do you just want to get skinny as fast as you can? Maybe P90X isn't for you. Do you want to work on your strength, stamina, and overall health while losing a little weight along the way? Try P90X.0 -
I started P90X at 204 pounds. I've now done two rounds of it and am 179.8 which means it's taken me six months to lose that amount. Not fast by any stretch of the imagination but I am happy that I've chosen to do the program. I have gone from a size 16 to a size 10 and it's beginning to get loose on me. If you can handle the slower scale movement and would like to get stronger and fitter then I say go for it. If you're just wanting to drop weight fast then this program will probably frustrate you because you won't move as fast with the weight training. However, if you are developing your muscle you're not losing it and you are creating a slimmer, firmer physique and will keep your metabolism up.0
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Thank you very much for your replies.
Is there a place online where you can find the different schedules for P90X? Mine didn't come with schedules so I had no idea there was different ways to do it.0 -
I agree - do the P90X "Lean Routine" which as a greater cardio emphasis. (There are 3 P90X workout's, "Lean Routine", "Classic" and "Doubles".) You may even go through 2 or 3 90-day cycles of the Lean Routine and then move on to the Classic which focuses more on resistance.
I have been doing P90X since January and lost my last 30# with it. My body has never been so fit. Interestingly enough, I have weighed less in the past, but haven't been this size since I don't know when. Muscle weighs more than fat and it burns more calories too!
Good luck!0 -
As a female on a reduced calorie diet, you will not gain muscle. To gain muscle you will need a caloric suprlus and then it is difficult as women simply cannot add substantial muscle without years of heavy lifting and possible chemical help. Toning yes.
I've done 5 rounds of P90x and it melts the fat away. Do no do the Lean schedule, you will get much better results by doing the Classic version and lifting 3 times a week. Please do not do the LEAN, it was an after thought and not how the program was designed.
Tim0 -
I started P90X at 204 pounds. I've now done two rounds of it and am 179.8 which means it's taken me six months to lose that amount. Not fast by any stretch of the imagination but I am happy that I've chosen to do the program. I have gone from a size 16 to a size 10 and it's beginning to get loose on me. If you can handle the slower scale movement and would like to get stronger and fitter then I say go for it. If you're just wanting to drop weight fast then this program will probably frustrate you because you won't move as fast with the weight training. However, if you are developing your muscle you're not losing it and you are creating a slimmer, firmer physique and will keep your metabolism up.
Doesn't this roughly equate to 4 lbs a month? That sounds good to me! It's about what I am averaging anyway. I am not trying to melt ASAP into a teeny tiny body, I want to get healthy AND I want to gain muscle and increase my cardiovascular capacity. Good for you for sticking with it. You should be incredibly proud of your results.0 -
I just googled "P90X schedules" and found outlines for all three.
Word to the wise: Don't download any "P90X meal plan" files from any of the "p90xschedule.org" or "p90xmealplan.com" sites, because I got a naaaasty virus and had to send my work computer off to IT for it.0 -
Thank you very much for your replies.
Is there a place online where you can find the different schedules for P90X? Mine didn't come with schedules so I had no idea there was different ways to do it.
Not to be a jerk, but I assume you bought "pirated" copies. The legit program comes with everything you need to know.0 -
I started P90X at 204 pounds. I've now done two rounds of it and am 179.8 which means it's taken me six months to lose that amount. Not fast by any stretch of the imagination but I am happy that I've chosen to do the program. I have gone from a size 16 to a size 10 and it's beginning to get loose on me. If you can handle the slower scale movement and would like to get stronger and fitter then I say go for it. If you're just wanting to drop weight fast then this program will probably frustrate you because you won't move as fast with the weight training. However, if you are developing your muscle you're not losing it and you are creating a slimmer, firmer physique and will keep your metabolism up.
Doesn't this roughly equate to 4 lbs a month? That sounds good to me! It's about what I am averaging anyway. I am not trying to melt ASAP into a teeny tiny body, I want to get healthy AND I want to gain muscle and increase my cardiovascular capacity. Good for you for sticking with it. You should be incredibly proud of your results.
Quite interesting - I am losing an average of four pounds a month doing P90X as well. It's going to take me a loong time to get all of the weight off, but there is a powerhouse bangin' body brewing under this fat. It'll be worth the wait.0 -
Thank you very much for your replies.
Is there a place online where you can find the different schedules for P90X? Mine didn't come with schedules so I had no idea there was different ways to do it.
Not to be a jerk, but I assume you bought "pirated" copies. The legit program comes with everything you need to know.
I was given the DVDs from a friend who no longer used the program. She didn't have the accompanying information to give me. Not everyone buys pirated DVDs that needs to find the information.0 -
Thank you very much for your replies.
Is there a place online where you can find the different schedules for P90X? Mine didn't come with schedules so I had no idea there was different ways to do it.
Not to be a jerk, but I assume you bought "pirated" copies. The legit program comes with everything you need to know.
I was given the DVDs from a friend who no longer used the program. She didn't have the accompanying information to give me. Not everyone buys pirated DVDs that needs to find the information.
Thank you!0 -
I'm 33, a mother of two, and I work from home. I'm 5ft tall and my starting weight was just under 140lbs. To get within the 'healthy range' for BMI, I need to get down to at least 127lbs. I've been doing P90X classic for 24 days, and I'm seeing massive results, I am sticking to the P90X diet like glue, but reducing portions and eating around 1200 calories, due to my short stature. The first week involves a lot of cooking with the meal plan as you have to make all the sauces and soups from scratch, but you make larger quantities and put them in the refrigerator for the following weeks. Also we already take the Reliv supplements, so I'm substituting the P90X protein and recovery drinks with that, and I'm buying equivalent protein bars from the local muscle gym. I wasn't very fit and had to use all the modifications they offered for the beginners on the DVD's. I can honestly say I am 100% better, after just three weeks. The first week was tough due to the caffeine withdrawal, but now I feel much stronger, and have even started running to and from my kids school! I'm fitting into clothes I haven't worn for years and feel so much stronger, even in just over three weeks. The fat is definitively burning off, just have a little bit of baby pouch to go! I haven't weighed myself yet as I am waiting until day 30, but my friends and family can see a big difference already. I'm going to extend the fat shredder diet for an extra two weeks to shift the rest of the fat around my midsection. It's a hard work out, I soaked after every cardio DVD, and am getting pretty flexible too, as long as you stick with, and watch the calories and carbs, you should see great results.
Good luck!0 -
Interesting replies. Thanks to all. I am definitely looking to get healthier - not just shrink the number on the scale. I am interested in strength training for sure. But I've also read that *generally* people cut weight or build muscle. I know that's not absolute, but roughly speaking, isn't that true? I do know that skinny guys who are bulking up will put on weight while building muscle, get to desired strength/size, then cut fat down. But it's usually sequential like that.
I do understand that strength training does not mean bulking up, that muscle helps metabolism, building strength is a healthier body. I'm all for a balanced approach, but wanted to focus on weight loss first, then strength. Again, not saying I would completely avoid strength training during weight loss.
Tim - I am curious about your statement above. Do you have any links/references to support that assertion?I've done 5 rounds of P90x and it melts the fat away. Do no do the Lean schedule, you will get much better results by doing the Classic version and lifting 3 times a week. Please do not do the LEAN, it was an after thought and not how the program was designed.
Tim0 -
Please explain.The first week was tough due to the caffeine withdrawal0 -
I guarantee if you do P90X and eat even half decent food you will lose fat. You couldn't possibly avoid it.
This.0 -
I did the classic version, just finished it officially though I'm dragging it out until this weekend.
I lost approximately 17-18lbs during it. I had been active here and there before p90x (boot camp class 3 times a week, play soccer every Sunday) but nothing like p90x.
The first month, I don't think I lost any weight. I was frustrated but everyone kept telling me to push forward. Glad I did!!! Weight started coming off 2nd month and most definately during my last month. I have muscles in my arms, I feel SO SO confident in the ability of my body, and I can now jog for 2 miles straight (I have NEVER been a runner). I LOVE p90x and what it did for me. I feel like a pretty bad *kitten* for finishing it too.
I am not at goal weight still. I did get discouraged when I'd search for before and afters and most people were already lean, somewhat fit or at the most 10-15lbs over. Again, glad I kept with it.
I am doing Insanity next and hope to lose a little bit more weight. Once that's done, back to p90x I will go to finish off my buffness.0 -
You can burn a ton of fat with P90X... not sure why people insist that ONLY cardio workouts are good for weight loss. The point about P90X not specifically targeting weight loss is correct, but through building muscles you should lose fat. Don't be afraid of using heavier weights either! Check info on ChaLean extreme too...
Good luck!0 -
You can burn a ton of fat with P90X... not sure why people insist that ONLY cardio workouts are good for weight loss. The point about P90X not specifically targeting weight loss is correct, but through building muscles you should lose fat. Don't be afraid of using heavier weights either! Check info on ChaLean extreme too...
Good luck!
P90X provides periodization, weekly increase in difficulty, warm up, cool down, elevated heart rate through almost any workout, recovery days with recovery level workouts.
If you are going to choose ONE exercise regimen to lose weight, it is an almost ideal choice for a guided regimen.
Anyone who puts it down as a fat loss workout, does not understand fat loss. P90X works multiple aspects of fitness, all in exhausting intervals if you push yourself. I was, for a while, doing a P90X at lunch every day and losing weight to great effect. I just got sick of that Tony guy LOL Some people love him though.0 -
Thanks guys, I really appreciate the insight/ input.
A friend of mine said that I should still be adding cardio on top of this 4 times a week as it's cardio aspect is lacking. Does anyone else do this? After working out for an hour doing P90X I can't see myself having the time or energy to go hit the trails for another 30 - 60 minutes four of the seven days.0 -
Thanks guys, I really appreciate the insight/ input.
A friend of mine said that I should still be adding cardio on top of this 4 times a week as it's cardio aspect is lacking. Does anyone else do this? After working out for an hour doing P90X I can't see myself having the time or energy to go hit the trails for another 30 - 60 minutes four of the seven days.
I added extra cardio every now and then but it wasn't necessary. And my cardio was just for fun such as a bike ride in the evening, a walk in a park etc. Like you said, after my workouts, I was BEAT. So this was only when I had the extra energy.
I never used my stretch day for stretching. In the beginning I used it as rest day then towards the 2nd half I started hiking that day. It became a ritual. It helped with the soreness some how and I burned alot of extra calories for the week.0 -
Thanks guys, I really appreciate the insight/ input.
A friend of mine said that I should still be adding cardio on top of this 4 times a week as it's cardio aspect is lacking. Does anyone else do this? After working out for an hour doing P90X I can't see myself having the time or energy to go hit the trails for another 30 - 60 minutes four of the seven days.
P90X is not lacking anything... there is no magic program, but P90X has most elements needed for success IMO. It's not set in stone either, so you could throw more cardio/HIIT (Insanity, Turbo Fire, Cardio routines from P90X One on One, etc.) into it if so desire.
Good luck!0 -
Own it......Loved it........It took me down to 11% body fat, but did not give me the size that my freeweights did. P90X full program is not for beginners unless you modify. Modification is good. Trust me....I even modified. It is intense and you will loose weight. P90X gives you everthing you need to achieve your goals depending on your percentage of body fat and physical abilities. If you continue and do 2 cycles of P90X you will see results and change your body.
My gym routines are now incorporated with P90X. Ab Ripper X. Hate it, but I love it. I do 11X25 now every other day. I started with 10X, 12X, 14X, 16X, 18X and so on until 25X. I love doing my abs now. Thank you Tony.0
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