Saez

First, let me say that this routine is a great replacement for those who cannot quite endure P90X Plyometrics and want a strong (low impact) leg and cardio workout. Many other reviews praise this 40 minute interval rollercoaster and fat burning routine. While this routine flows well and forces you stay to stay in zone throughout, it is certaintly not the same as other forms of High Intensity Interval Training or (HIIT). Please do not misinterpret my assessment here. This Interval X routine is a great workout, and one that I will repeat many times in my off-season.

The routine plows through about 15 move sequences of mostly one minute starting with a 20 second setup (or slow intensity) moving to intermediate for the next 20 seconds and going all out the last 20 seconds. The key on interval training or HIIT, is to start with a slow set (i.e. 30 second jogg) and then push to 90% of your maximum speed (i.e. 30 second sprint) forcing a dramatic body tempo constrast that it shocks your metabolic state. The contrast in P90X Interval is not as dramatic given the need for readiness for back-to-back moves for 30 minutes non-stop. However, what this workout may lack in contrast, it makes up in intensity and good design flow between moves.

The bottom line is that HIIT is a must if you want to see radical improvoment. I tried it during my training for a marathon several year ago and it made a huge difference for me. It’s time to dump your ‘even keel’ Lifecycle boring machine routine. Research shows that Interval training is more efficient on improving your cardiovascular capacity and surprisingly the majority of calories burned will come after your workout. So what’s not to like about it? Again, this is an awesome workout.

Interval X Score: A

written by osaez \\ tags: HIIT, interval, P90X, p90x plus, sports, training, workout

After a great summer season this summer, I’m back to basics in my workout regimen. While I have been very pleased with my P90X results, I needed a change. I decided to order P90X+ not only to freshen and upgrade my DVD collection, but because I became excited about the titles “Upper Body, Total Body, Interval X” which sounded more well rounded routines altogether… and I was not disappointed.

I started today with Upper Body Plus.

This was a good workout. It moves quicker than the original P90X series. It runs for about 45 minutes. I noticed several things that I liked besides the shorter time. There is no boredom or repetition of sequences here. The routine appears to have fewer moves and longer time or reps per exercise so the burn is intense. It works all the upper muscles following a large to small muscle sequence (i.e. chest, back, shoulders, biceps, triceps) while also engaging the core. It has good rhythm and synergy throughout.

The combination of full upper body while engaging the midsection are sure to sculpt and build strength. If this is new to you, don’t worry, it will take sometime to get used to the speed and balance needed to perfect these new moves. But once you get it, you’ll be able to ‘dial it up’ to supercharge the burn and results.

Clearly, the longer sets are somewhat of a departure from the original series. But the time compression and lighter talking and relaxed coaching style by Tony will put this video on top of the list. Oh, and the music is exceptionally well adapted to the routine with an up-tempo clean rock score.

Upper Body review score: A

written by osaez \\ tags: exercise, P90X, p90x plus, sports, training, workout

What a great feeling! In the heels of a great TV watching experience with the beach volleyball Olympics, I was inspired and pumped as I conclude my own summer beach volleyball season. Back in November of last year I talked about my goals for the upcoming year. I endeavored to win an A-level beach EVP volleyball tournament in Chicago. Today, my partner and I won the EVP Open/AAA Level Tournament and qualified for Pro Beach level. Wow! While working out of pool play was a test of skill and ability, winning the tournament was a test of mental and physical endurance. This was an great accomplishment that I celebrate with my partner Rodney Johnson, my personal coach Taye Im and my training buddy, P90X. I can’t say enough about the power of believing in yourself along with good-ol’ fashion consistency, determination and attitude. What a great ride.

Here are my full* season stats:

• Jun 7, 08 - EVP Level A semifinals (top 4 inish)
• Jul 6, 08 - EVP Level A finals (2nd place finish)
• Jul 19, 08 - EVP AA quarterfinals (top 10/24 finish)
• Aug 23, 08 - EVP AAA/Gold winner (Pro qualifying)

* Non qualifying events not included (i.e. big loosers or rec ball)

written by osaez \\ tags: beach volleyball, goals, P90X, training, volleyball

Any long-term effort and activity requires discipline and perseverance. Once you endure these, you develop habit and then enjoy the reward of performing at your best. This cycle serves as the best motivation to continue to excel. Well, I have applied and learned this lesson during my P90X workout routine which to this date continues to be an important part of my weekly routine. I started P90X nearly eight months ago and have seen dramatically positive results. Without a doubt, P90X is one of the best strength building workout program available today. Not only you’ll get results, but for about $85 for DVDs and then some minimal equipment (i.e. bands, dumbells and pull up bar), you just can’t find a better value for your money. I learned that sleeping and eating right are also important if you want to see results in record time. My friends comment about my looks and more importantly my volleyball buddies marvel at how at my age of 43, I can outlast and outperform guys in their mid 20s.

P90X is not an easy program. An average gym guy (i.e. lifts 3 times per week) may have good arm and pectoral density, but typically look soft and packs subcutaneous fat in the core. Many laddies who are regular at the gym struggle with hip volume and muscle tone. P90X refines and improves definition while working cardio and endurance in one time-efficient package. Do not start this program if you have not been working out regularly for over 90 days or if you are over 20 pounds above your target weight.

If you are a P90X, CrossFit or any other extreme fitness program, I salute you and now understand your drive and passion for an active lifestyle and to see others pursue the same. This is a lifestyle and what a great one it is. I’m glad for my friends and family who support me everyday and feel lucky and grateful for others who feel inspired to discover the secret to live more intensely.

Set a goal and stick with it. I started months ago with a promise to be in the best shape of my life and win a beach volleyball tournament. I did it an so can you.

I encourage you to review all my reviews. Check the P90X Review caption or start with my initial post on this program here.

written by osaez \\ tags: fitness, fitness program, P90X, training, workout