What Supplies Are Needed to Start With P90X?

!±8± What Supplies Are Needed to Start With P90X?

Beachbody's P90X workout system is an extremely popular home workout system. Developed by Tony Horton, the system uses the principles of periodization to achieve impressive improvements in full-body fitness in 90 days. P90X differentiates itself from other workout systems by working both the cardiovascular and muscular systems, resulting in increased strength and stamina. These results are achieved by continuously varying exercises; P90X includes circuits, plyometrics, interval training, and several other forms of exercise. Though the system is designed for the home, some equipment is required. Additionally, nutrition is highly emphasized due to the intense nature of P90X.

The P90X workouts come on a series of thirteen DVDs. Though it might seem obvious, the first equipment requirement for P90X users is a working DVD player and compatible television. For the strength exercises, dumbbells or resistance bands are required. It is generally best to have both, though either one will do. The dumbbells should weigh at least 10 to 50 pounds, although more weight may be utilized by very stronger users. A good place to do pullups is also required. For those lacking a readily available place to do so, a pullup bar will do the trick. These bars mount to most standard-sized door frames and should support most weights, although it is always important to check before buying. Beachbody also recommends a yoga mat and blocks for the yoga and core portions of the workout system. Yoga blocks can help inexperienced users maintain their balance during difficult poses. Push-up stands, which decrease stress in the wrists and allow for increased range of motion, are highly recommended.

P90X Supplies

In addition to the above exercise equipment, Beachbody recommends that users purchase a heart rate monitor to assess effort levels and fatigue, as well as to measure their fitness progression throughout the program. The heart rate monitor is useful during cardiovascular exercise, because it opens a window into the workings of the body. Users can immediately see how hard they're working at any given speed, and know when to back off or pick up the pace.

Because P90X is an intense exercise regime, nutrition plays a very important role. Within 60 minutes of working out, users should consume a recovery drink with protein and carbohydrates to replenish energy stores and repair muscles. Beachbody Peak Recovery formula is the drink of choice for post-workout nutrition. It contains several amino acids, protein, and carbohydrates. For general nutrition, there are special vitamins available for users, called Peak Health formula, which may support a healthy body. During the first two thirds of P90X, the diet plan calls for users to eat one protein bar per day. These bars can be purchased in bulk fairly cheaply from Beachbody under the name "Peak Performance" protein bars. To ensure adequate recovery, the diet plan also calls for users to greatly increase their protein consumption in the first thirty days of the program. The recommended method for doing so is whey protein powder. Interested users can purchase a large container from any health foods store and from many larger all purpose stores, such as Walmart or Target.