Week One of the P90X Workout
I’ve sprang happily out of bed every morning this week, before moaning in pain, as I am reminded how much my muscles ache from the numerous P90X workouts I’ve done each day. I shouldn’t complain. The pain proves that the videos must be doing me some good. However, it does mean that my husband (who I convinced to join in with me) and I have been in pain most of this week. Whether it’s walking upstairs, downstairs or just standing up, some muscles somewhere, hurt!
Maybe you haven’t heard of P90X. If not, it’s a set of 12 DVD workouts that you use to complete a 13 week exercise programme. The program consists of three 30 day phases. I’ve used some of the exercises before to supplement other exercises I’ve been doing, but I’ve never attempted to complete the whole 90 days. So after one week, this is what I think of the programme and workouts.
The bicycle move in the abs workout
Lots of variety – A different muscle group is targeted each day, with some cardio and yoga too. I like this. Not only is it more interesting, but it also gives one set of muscles a rest, while you work different ones. I’ve definitely been working some muscles I didn’t even know I had this week.
Hard work – It’s a challenge. This is great because it gives a lot of room for improvement. If I could do everything perfectly, straight away I would soon become bored and give up. This way I can set myself small goals to keep up my motivation.
Modified moves – This is kind of linked to the point above. In the videos there is always someone showing you an easier, modified version of the exercises. This is good when you’re just beginning and haven’t got the fitness, flexibility or strength to do the more difficult moves. I’ve been using a few of these modified moves this week.
Need equipment – Unfortunately, to complete all of the workouts fully, you need some weights or resistance bands. This isn’t ideal for travellers. I haven’t got either of these, so my husband and I had to come up with our own modified moves for some of the arms exercises. At least resistance bands aren’t too heavy or bulky to carry around.
Repetitive – Even though the variety of workouts is good, some of the workouts can be a bit repetitive. I found the yoga one was like this. I got a bit bored of doing a similar move for 40 minutes, although I’m sure it was still doing me some good.
Overall, I really like it so far. The exercises are quite fun and aren’t monotonous. The instructor, Tony Horton, is entertaining, whether it’s because he’s making you laugh or irritating you. I’m not sure which one I feel right now. It’s going to be difficult to keep up the 6 days a week for 13 weeks, especially since I’ll be travelling in that time. I’m going to try my best not to miss any workouts. If you’ve already completed P90X, you should give P90X2 a try.
