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[Ixian]

T25 Speed 3.0 is fun as shit.

 

[Pyrokai]

Not really feeling any kind of soreness from my arms and shoulders routine from two days ago...but I did what I thought was the max weight I could handle without failing on, like, rep 4.

Any suggestions or is it okay that I'm not wallowing in pain?

 

[SteveMeister]

T25 Speed 3.0 is fun as shit.

Yeah it is! Though Speed 2.0 is still my favorite. You should try Core Speed!

Not really feeling any kind of soreness from my arms and shoulders routine from two days ago...but I did what I thought was the max weight I could handle without failing on, like, rep 4.

Any suggestions or is it okay that I'm not wallowing in pain?

Once you're in a routine of regular lifting, you won't really get sore as often or as easily. Don't worry about it.

 

[LaneDS]

Not really feeling any kind of soreness from my arms and shoulders routine from two days ago...but I did what I thought was the max weight I could handle without failing on, like, rep 4.

Any suggestions or is it okay that I'm not wallowing in pain?

Basically echoing Steve, but the early days/weeks are definitely the worst as far as soreness goes. You might get similarly sore if you switch to either a new phase or a new program and end up working out in ways your body isn't used to, but nothing compares to the first few days I've found.

Like Tony says, pick a weight that will let you go 8-10 reps for size or 12-15 for lean, and try to make it so the last three reps you do are difficult (obviously that isn't a catch all for everything but seems to generally be good advice).

 

[Pyrokai]

Basically echoing Steve, but the early days/weeks are definitely the worst as far as soreness goes. You might get similarly sore if you switch to either a new phase or a new program and end up working out in ways your body isn't used to, but nothing compares to the first few days I've found.

Like Tony says, pick a weight that will let you go 8-10 reps for size or 12-15 for lean, and try to make it so the last three reps you do are difficult (obviously that isn't a catch all for everything but seems to generally be good advice).

I was actually a little confused by his comment on the 8-10/size 12-15/lean thing. 8-10/size would mean you need a heavier weight, right?

Also, what sucks is that weights are expensive and I bought a pair of 12s and a pair of 20s because I wasn't sure. The 12s are too light for a lot of exercises but perfect for others. Same with the 20s, except they're too heavy for some of them.

The problem lies, for me, that I think something smack between those would be best for me, but I don't want to buy more weights unless I'm going higher than 20. I'm thinking next week I should just try to use the 20s for everything and see how it goes.

(yes, I know I'm weak as hell stfu )

What makes me think I'm not working hard enough is that this is SUPPOSEDLY my first real week of P90X, but I did do a "practice week" two weeks ago where I was much more sore. Can the soreness still reduce in just one week of the workouts with a 2 week gap between them?

About to do Legs & Back. AKA: I continue to not know if the smallest bands I could find are doing anything for my back even as I stretch them out as far as I can without, like, breaking the door.

 

[LaneDS]

I was actually a little confused by his comment on the 8-10/size 12-15/lean thing. 8-10/size would mean you need a heavier weight, right?

So the thing here is that you need to decide if your goal is to get bigger or get leaner first. If you want size, you then pick a weight where that eighth/ninth/tenth rep is the one where you're really struggling. If you want to get lean, you pick a weight where you're struggling on that fourteenth or fifteenth rep. Obviously what those weights are will be different for each individual (and change as time goes on), but hopefully that helps explain it some.

Also, what sucks is that weights are expensive and I bought a pair of 12s and a pair of 20s because I wasn't sure. The 12s are too light for a lot of exercises but perfect for others. Same with the 20s, except they're too heavy for some of them.

The problem lies, for me, that I think something smack between those would be best for me, but I don't want to buy more weights unless I'm going higher than 20. I'm thinking next week I should just try to use the 20s for everything and see how it goes.

(yes, I know I'm weak as hell stfu )

Nobody thinks you're weak! My opinion is that you're working hard and that's awesome. You'll get stronger. Picking the appropriate weight for each exercise is really important, and yes, weights are expensive. I first started X1 only owning one pair of 15 lb dumbbells and found those fine for some things and too hard/easy for others. Have you checked out Powerblocks? They're expensive initially but really, really useful for this program. Essentially they're a pair of adjustable weights that go from I think 5 to 50 lb per dumbbell which lets you select the right weight for each exercise (and it's very quick to switch between them). I know $300 is a lot, but if you know you're going to be working out over a long time for some people that makes more sense than buying many sets of dumbbells (which would likely cost you more money, takes up a lot more space, and is a lot more weight to move).

Since you said it's your first week though, keep at it with a pair or two of dumbbells and if you find you really love it, Powerblocks (or other similar products) are something I'd recommend looking into.

What makes me think I'm not working hard enough is that this is SUPPOSEDLY my first real week of P90X, but I did do a "practice week" two weeks ago where I was much more sore. Can the soreness still reduce in just one week of the workouts with a 2 week gap between them?

About to do Legs & Back. AKA: I continue to not know if the smallest bands I could find are doing anything for my back even as I stretch them out as far as I can without, like, breaking the door.

The soreness can definitely be much, much less a week later, yes. Give the program your all and don't worry about whether you're sore, just if you know you really pushed yourself as hard as you can (while being smart and safe) that you're probably doing great things for your body.

Oh, and for the bands, use multiple bands at once if you're just using one and finding it's not feeling at all difficult. Also, protect your eyes! People have gotten hurt with snapping bands and I think that's important to consider too.

 

[Pyrokai]

Wow, thanks man for all that advice. I can't tell you how much that helps me out. That goes for everyone else who has helped me, too. Hopefully I'll stop polluting the thread so much as time goes on, haha, but an outlet to voice even the tiniest concerns really helps me, and I hope other silent people are benefitting as well

Those Powerblocks look awesome . Possible a good Christmas gift to ask for

Regarding the bands, I think I might have to get something heavier. I just finished legs and back, and while I rocked it with my legs, I still feel like I'm not doing enough with the bands for my pull-ups. I have the shortest band I could find, and I sat back SO far that I was legitimately worried they were going to break. I think I'll take your advice and buy a second one to double it up.


Edit: Oh...and clicking knees. Is this a thing and should I be concerned? Doesn't hurt....my knees just....click for a lot of exercises.....

 

[Sec0nd]

I've been slacking with my abs for a long while now so I decided to go back and do Ab Ripper X. I think I might be doing something wrong and I need some help. While I obviously felt it in my abs it felt more like a leg exercise. I couldn't finish a couple of moves because my legs were just too tired. I did some heavy squats yesterday but still, I think it shouldn't be such an issue right? What am I doing wrong? Also, my left hip is clicking with a lot of those exercises and it's really annoying.

 

[SteveMeister]

Wow, thanks man for all that advice. I can't tell you how much that helps me out. That goes for everyone else who has helped me, too. Hopefully I'll stop polluting the thread so much as time goes on, haha, but an outlet to voice even the tiniest concerns really helps me, and I hope other silent people are benefitting as well

Those Powerblocks look awesome . Possible a good Christmas gift to ask for

Regarding the bands, I think I might have to get something heavier. I just finished legs and back, and while I rocked it with my legs, I still feel like I'm not doing enough with the bands for my pull-ups. I have the shortest band I could find, and I sat back SO far that I was legitimately worried they were going to break. I think I'll take your advice and buy a second one to double it up.


Edit: Oh...and clicking knees. Is this a thing and should I be concerned? Doesn't hurt....my knees just....click for a lot of exercises.....

Don't ever think you're polluting the thread! This thread exists so that we can all help each other out & offer encouragement

As far as weights go, I started out with a pair of BowFlex SelecTech 552s. These are pretty nice adjustable weights, very fast to change, and a traditional shape. The big drawback here is that they are VERY wide, and that hinders the form on some exercises.

I looked at PowerBlocks, but I didn't like the idea that my hands were surrounded. Also, they rattle a lot, and it's very fiddly to change weights in low increments (2.5lb or 5lb) because you have to insert or remove metal inserts. It's faster to change in heavier increments, though.

When I started Body Beast earlier this year, I ran into an issue because my BowFlex 552s only go up to 52.5lbs each, and I needed heavier weights for some exercises. So I bought a set of IronMaster QuickLock dumbbells. This is a very nice, heavy duty set that goes up to 75lbs per dumbbell. While it is easy to change weights, it's also much slower to do it than with the BowFlexes or PowerBlocks. But once you do they are *solid*. No clacking or rattling.

But even with two sets of adjustable weights I ran into another problem -- Body Beast changes weights VERY fast. You're doing progressive sets where you need 3 different weights, and sometimes super sets where you need even more because you're doing two or more different exercises.

So, now I wish I'd just bought individual pairs of fixed dumbbells instead. The nice thing about doing this is that you can buy the weights as you need them. You can also buy them used off CraigsList or at a used sporting goods store, and since they're basically just hunks of metal, you know they're not going to malfunction in any way.

I've recently begun buying individual dumbbells, and using my BowFlex and IronMaster sets for heavier weights. I'd bought a set of 3lbs, 5lbs and 8lbs for my wife, and in addition I more recently bought pairs of 1lbs, 2lbs, 10lbs, 12lbs and 15lbs. (The 1lb and 2lb are for weighted Supermans. Try them. They're a bitch.)

I plan to get 20lbs, 25lbs and 30lbs pairs as well in the near future.

So, I recommend getting individuals and building your collection up over time.

I've been slacking with my abs for a long while now so I decided to go back and do Ab Ripper X. I think I might be doing something wrong and I need some help. While I obviously felt it in my abs it felt more like a leg exercise. I couldn't finish a couple of moves because my legs were just too tired. I did some heavy squats yesterday but still, I think it shouldn't be such an issue right? What am I doing wrong? Also, my left hip is clicking with a lot of those exercises and it's really annoying.

You're feeling it in your legs because a lot of the moves in ARX work your hip flexors, which connect your abdominal section to your quads. In addition, as you try to do the moves where you're keeping your legs straight, you're flexing your quads to do so. The trick is to try to push the small of your back to the ground & keep it there. You do this by compressing your stomach. It's a little easier if you raise your shoulders off the ground slightly, keeping your chin about the width of a fist away from your chest.

In the short term, I'd focus more on your core than on keeping your legs perfectly straight. The latter will come with time & practice & flexibility gained from Yoga.

Regarding joint clicks & pops, if you don't have arthritis then generally it's benign. You should ask your doctor about it, but chances are he or she will tell you not to be concerned about it.

 

[FOOTE]

Don't ever think you're polluting the thread! This thread exists so that we can all help each other out & offer encouragement

As far as weights go, I started out with a pair of BowFlex SelecTech 552s. These are pretty nice adjustable weights, very fast to change, and a traditional shape. The big drawback here is that they are VERY wide, and that hinders the form on some exercises.

I looked at PowerBlocks, but I didn't like the idea that my hands were surrounded. Also, they rattle a lot, and it's very fiddly to change weights in low increments (2.5lb or 5lb) because you have to insert or remove metal inserts. It's faster to change in heavier increments, though.

When I started Body Beast earlier this year, I ran into an issue because my BowFlex 552s only go up to 52.5lbs each, and I needed heavier weights for some exercises. So I bought a set of IronMaster QuickLock dumbbells. This is a very nice, heavy duty set that goes up to 75lbs per dumbbell. While it is easy to change weights, it's also much slower to do it than with the BowFlexes or PowerBlocks. But once you do they are *solid*. No clacking or rattling.

But even with two sets of adjustable weights I ran into another problem -- Body Beast changes weights VERY fast. You're doing progressive sets where you need 3 different weights, and sometimes super sets where you need even more because you're doing two or more different exercises.

So, now I wish I'd just bought individual pairs of fixed dumbbells instead. The nice thing about doing this is that you can buy the weights as you need them. You can also buy them used off CraigsList or at a used sporting goods store, and since they're basically just hunks of metal, you know they're not going to malfunction in any way.

I've recently begun buying individual dumbbells, and using my BowFlex and IronMaster sets for heavier weights. I'd bought a set of 3lbs, 5lbs and 8lbs for my wife, and in addition I more recently bought pairs of 1lbs, 2lbs, 10lbs, 12lbs and 15lbs. (The 1lb and 2lb are for weighted Supermans. Try them. They're a bitch.)

I plan to get 20lbs, 25lbs and 30lbs pairs as well in the near future.

So, I recommend getting individuals and building your collection up over time.

This is me... exactly me. Individuals are the way to go. Build your collection over time. Faster changes, better form and they really have zero chance of breaking. I wish I had started building my collection earlier.

 

[Pyrokai]

Alright, so today I found some pretty baller bands. They seem to give me the resistance I wanted in the first place. They're 70lb. bands, and they might be a little more than I can handle, but I figured if I were doing actual real pullups, I'd only be doing 3-4 of them anyway, so I'm really hoping these work out for me.

Kenpo was a little weird for me. Such a bizarre workout. I feel like it wasn't nearly intense enough for me and I was too worked up about doing the punches right, so if I wasn't feeling it, I substituted jumping jacks, lol.

Today is my rest day, and I'm SERIOUSLY considering skipping it and going straight into Chest & Back again. I say this because I don't feel sore in the slightest, and looking into my schedule for next week, next Saturday will be really difficult for me to do a workout, so if I can make that my rest day for next week, I'd be really happy.

I know the rest day is very important, but I think I was "doggin' it" this past week and think I'll be okay

 

[FOOTE]

Alright, so today I found some pretty baller bands. They seem to give me the resistance I wanted in the first place. They're 70lb. bands, and they might be a little more than I can handle, but I figured if I were doing actual real pullups, I'd only be doing 3-4 of them anyway, so I'm really hoping these work out for me.

Kenpo was a little weird for me. Such a bizarre workout. I feel like it wasn't nearly intense enough for me and I was too worked up about doing the punches right, so if I wasn't feeling it, I substituted jumping jacks, lol.

Today is my rest day, and I'm SERIOUSLY considering skipping it and going straight into Chest & Back again. I say this because I don't feel sore in the slightest, and looking into my schedule for next week, next Saturday will be really difficult for me to do a workout, so if I can make that my rest day for next week, I'd be really happy.

I know the rest day is very important, but I think I was "doggin' it" this past week and think I'll be okay

Stick to the schedule when you're first starting out man, lol. Think about working out for 2 weeks straight because that's what you'd set yourself up for. You would risk taking an off day two or three days before your regularly scheduled off day which would really be no good. Discipline is key and that includes getting enough rest.

Kenpo is hit or miss for a lot of people. It took me until the fourth time to realise that it didn't do much for me.

 

[Pyrokai]

Well, damn, too late I guess, haha.

I went through with it and did Chest & Back. You replied after I had already done it

I know I probably shouldn't have, but I still feel like I made the right choice because next Friday and Saturday I might be too busy to do any kind of workouts, so I'll definitely get some rest there. But, I have good news:

I increased my reps in both rounds for every exercise!! (only by 2-4 reps though) It was intense, and I was operating without eating enough today as well, so I am happy happy happy with today's workout. The bands worked better for me as well, for sure. Next week will be interesting because increasing the number of pushups beyond what I did today seems nearly impossible. I feel like I definitely maxed myself out today.

And so because of that, my Ab Ripper routine was sub-par today. Definitely the worst I've done with Ab Ripper, but I was pretty much wasted at that point, so I'm going to give it a slide. Monday, however, I will strike back with a vengeance!

 

[FOOTE]

Well, damn, too late I guess, haha.

I went through with it and did Chest & Back. You replied after I had already done it

I know I probably shouldn't have, but I still feel like I made the right choice because next Friday and Saturday I might be too busy to do any kind of workouts, so I'll definitely get some rest there. But, I have good news:

I increased my reps in both rounds for every exercise!! (only by 2-4 reps though) It was intense, and I was operating without eating enough today as well, so I am happy happy happy with today's workout. The bands worked better for me as well, for sure. Next week will be interesting because increasing the number of pushups beyond what I did today seems nearly impossible. I feel like I definitely maxed myself out today.

And so because of that, my Ab Ripper routine was sub-par today. Definitely the worst I've done with Ab Ripper, but I was pretty much wasted at that point, so I'm going to give it a slide. Monday, however, I will strike back with a vengeance!

Glad you had a good workout then.

ARX is tough. I did it today and after doing these workouts for four years now, it's still a hard for me to do every rep. Don't ever beat yourself up for what you believe is a subpar workout because everyone has bad days. Just get up tomorrow and do it again.

 

[LaneDS]

I still struggle with horrible lower back pain when doing ARX or ARX2 and am not sure how to compensate for that. I know I slouch a lot (and try not to) and generally seem to have a weak lower back (and a strong core) which I think is why I'm almost instantly in pain for ARX (the lay on the ground and lift your legs stuff gets me badly).

Any advice on what I should be doing outside of the program to help out with that? It's funny (or sad) because I don't fail on ARX or ARX2 due to having poor ab muscles, since I can never properly tax them due to lower back pain overwhelming me to the point I have to stop.

Aside from that, three weeks down on modified (gym cardio in place of plyo/kenpo) P90X! Feeling pretty good.

 

[Pyrokai]

Aside from that, three weeks down on modified (gym cardio in place of plyo/kenpo) P90X! Feeling pretty good.

Nice work! Unfortunately, I don't have too much advice for the lower back problem. Maybe there are some strength exercises out there for lower back you could do in conjunction with ARX or something?

Last night guys, I had a horrible night sleep. I exercised before dinner, so I didn't exercise late or anything, but I was SO WOUND UP when I went to bed roughly 4 hours later. What's up with that? Like, I think my heart rate was up.....and to be honest, I still think it's up higher than it should be. I'm a little worried.....and I still feel completely full of energy, almost as if my adrenaline has been pumping all night o_0

I don't know if this is what it's like to NOT feel like a piece of shit all the time, or if I should be genuinely concerned, lol. Because despite the lackluster sleep, I feel really hyper right now still.

I'm about to do Plyo X. We'll see how I feel when that's all over, I guess. I'm still a little worried.

Edit: Just checked my pulse twice on my wrist and on neck. Heart rate is 78 right now. I feel like that's a little high for not having done anything at all today, but I guess it falls in the normal range of 60-100.

 

[FOOTE]

Deadlifts and reverse crunches help the lower back, Lane.

 

[yogloo]

I'm officially a p90x graduate.

 

[obijkenobi]

For those of you that have done Asylum, what ratio of macronutrients did you use in your diet? I don't think I'm going to follow the 14 day plan included in it

 

[Kiriku]

I still struggle with horrible lower back pain when doing ARX or ARX2 and am not sure how to compensate for that. I know I slouch a lot (and try not to) and generally seem to have a weak lower back (and a strong core) which I think is why I'm almost instantly in pain for ARX (the lay on the ground and lift your legs stuff gets me badly).

Any advice on what I should be doing outside of the program to help out with that? It's funny (or sad) because I don't fail on ARX or ARX2 due to having poor ab muscles, since I can never properly tax them due to lower back pain overwhelming me to the point I have to stop.

Aside from that, three weeks down on modified (gym cardio in place of plyo/kenpo) P90X! Feeling pretty good.

This reminds me a bit of my sister. She always told me she thought ab exercises in general didn't really seem that hard. After a few months she started feeling pain in her (IIRC) back. She went to a physiotherapist who told her she was doing ab exercises without actually exercising her abs (essentially, her body was 'cheating' and putting a lot of strain on her back instead).
But it sounds like your problem may be something different. Still, I guess it doesn't hurt to be extra careful about your form. In any case, I hope you get better. I know from experience back pains can be really painful and frustrating. :/

 

[LaneDS]

This reminds me a bit of my sister. She always told me she thought ab exercises in general didn't really seem that hard. After a few months she started feeling pain in her (IIRC) back. She went to a physiotherapist who told her she was doing ab exercises without actually exercising her abs (essentially, her body was 'cheating' and putting a lot of strain on her back instead).
But it sounds like your problem may be something different. Still, I guess it doesn't hurt to be extra careful about your form. In any case, I hope you get better. I know from experience back pains can be really painful and frustrating. :/

Thank you; I'm trying to focus on form more than my first time through X1 or X2 and am going light on weights where I know my form isn't great, and try to focus on posture when I'm not working out.

Might also invest in one of those lifting belts... not sure if it's designed for helping keep good form, but sounds like something to investigate after I hit submit reply.

Chest & back done strong tonight. Will start phase 2 next week (or maybe do a quasi-recovery week).

 

[BeautifulMemory]

Thank you; I'm trying to focus on form more than my first time through X1 or X2 and am going light on weights where I know my form isn't great, and try to focus on posture when I'm not working out.

Might also invest in one of those lifting belts... not sure if it's designed for helping keep good form, but sounds like something to investigate after I hit submit reply.

Chest & back done strong tonight. Will start phase 2 next week (or maybe do a quasi-recovery week).

You can make your own core workouts by only using ones where you are on all four limbs rather than on your back, for example, X2 Core is full of workouts like this or the one form PAP Upper where you balance on yourself on a stability ball with two feet for one minute.

If you have access to the gym, there should be like a equipments where you can either fully suspend yourself in the air (whether by hanging or using straps on your triceps) or pads where you can lift yourself up (like when you are doing dips, but not on a chair) - what people do then is they try to lift their legs as high as they can , up and down for 10 reps, then side to side for another 10 reps. Then repeat.

Example : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oei1GdP9aoY

You can do this on like a pull up bar too, say in a park. But my hands usually get too sore after lifting weights so I use the straps.

Every since I started really lifting weights, ab workouts isn't really that important for me. The key thing is to engage your core during the little that you do.

Hi

 

[tmarques]

2 weeks to go with Body Beast and I honestly don't know where to go from there.

I'm very happy with my results but -

1. I can't imagine going for another round for a long while

2. I'm SICK and TIRED of eating like a family of four. Seriously, I dread meal times more than I dread the actual workouts.

3. It's f*cked up my flexibility considerably. This is going to sound ridiculous, but I can no longer get both of my legs behind my neck at once - only one at a time on a good day. It pisses me off after 14 years of yoga to be losing flexibility.

So what's a good maintenance plan considering I own both P90Xs and BB? I was thinking of going back to doing Ashtanga 3x a week and lifting 2x a week. Are the "total body" workouts enough to prevent muscle loss? Also, how long can one go without lifting weights before starting to lose muscle?

 

[CherryWoodFuton]

2 weeks to go with Body Beast and I honestly don't know where to go from there.

I'm very happy with my results but -

1. I can't imagine going for another round for a long while

2. I'm SICK and TIRED of eating like a family of four. Seriously, I dread meal times more than I dread the actual workouts.

3. It's f*cked up my flexibility considerably. This is going to sound ridiculous, but I can no longer get both of my legs behind my neck at once - only one at a time on a good day. It pisses me off after 14 years of yoga to be losing flexibility.

So what's a good maintenance plan considering I own both P90Xs and BB? I was thinking of going back to doing Ashtanga 3x a week and lifting 2x a week. Are the "total body" workouts enough to prevent muscle loss? Also, how long can one go without lifting weights before starting to lose muscle?

I would just do a hybrid of X2 and BB. For example Bulk arms and legs with plyocide and x2 yoga to regain that flexibility

 

[walei]

I will be finishing T25 Gamma this week! I can definitely see a change in my body for the better, more lean and toned. I love doing it first thing in the morning so I want to continue with this habit...

I'm thinking of doing cardio intensive exercises from T25 in the morning and lift weights after work, but doing Speed 3.0 every morning can be boring... How do you think I should setup my schedule?

Maybe something like Mon - Fri:

Speed 3.0, Speed 2.0, Core Cardio, Speed 3.0, Speed 2.0

 

[Bollocks]

Anybody plan on using the Xbox Fitness program on the X1?
Would love to here how it works out. I wouldn't normally buy the X1 but that feature is very tempting, all that high score, feedback stuff, could be a game changer

 

[Pyrokai]

I'm officially a p90x graduate.

Congratulations!!!! How does it feel? And how were your results???

PS, I'm working on my finishing up my second week! Got Legs/Back and ARX today, then Kenpo tomorrow and then that's a wrap for Week 2!

I still don't feel like I'm workin' it hard enough despite doing the most weight I can do. Is it bad that I don't expect much in the way of results when I'm all finished? Did anyone here finish the entire program and was disappointed with his or her results? Share if so!!

 

[LaneDS]

You can make your own core workouts by only using ones where you are on all four limbs rather than on your back, for example, X2 Core is full of workouts like this or the one form PAP Upper where you balance on yourself on a stability ball with two feet for one minute.

If you have access to the gym, there should be like a equipments where you can either fully suspend yourself in the air (whether by hanging or using straps on your triceps) or pads where you can lift yourself up (like when you are doing dips, but not on a chair) - what people do then is they try to lift their legs as high as they can , up and down for 10 reps, then side to side for another 10 reps. Then repeat.

Example : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oei1GdP9aoY

You can do this on like a pull up bar too, say in a park. But my hands usually get too sore after lifting weights so I use the straps.

Every since I started really lifting weights, ab workouts isn't really that important for me. The key thing is to engage your core during the little that you do.

Hi

BM! Good to see you still active in here although I did read a previous post from you mentioning that you were doing gym workouts or some such... which is great!. You happier with your results these days?

That's all very good advice, and I will try to go through X1 ARX and X2 ARX to find the moves I think I can do without horrible pain. While I don't have access to a gym, my free standing pull up bar does have handles presumably for dips so I think I could do the move you're talking about on that... thank you!

Will be doing shoulders and arms tonight and then will follow up with some modified core exercises based on this.

 

[Pyrokai]

Decided to actually record myself doing a band "pull up". I need to know if I'm doing these right because I know I'm pulling a lot of weight but I never feel the burn the way I do with other exercises. I also never really feel it in my back.....I think....I honestly can't tell if I'm doing more work in my back or in my shoulders. So here's my form. Let me know what you think.

It's not the best angle, but it's the best I could record.

 

[BeautifulMemory]

BM! Good to see you still active in here although I did read a previous post from you mentioning that you were doing gym workouts or some such... which is great!. You happier with your results these days?

That's all very good advice, and I will try to go through X1 ARX and X2 ARX to find the moves I think I can do without horrible pain. While I don't have access to a gym, my free standing pull up bar does have handles presumably for dips so I think I could do the move you're talking about on that... thank you!

Will be doing shoulders and arms tonight and then will follow up with some modified core exercises based on this.

Hey. Very happy with my results. Since I did the hard part with weight loss (cutting), showing results were easier once I started lifting heavy (relative to my weight)

I will say, because I have only been lifting, I notice loss of cardiovascular strength, flexibility, and core strength. Nevertheless, there some really cool stuff with weight lifting, which some are include on P90X and I'm assuming Body Beast.

But yea if we are taking about purely results... I'm convinced that it is almost unnecessary to do ab work on your back, especially if you are experiencing pain. Focus on your core and your diet. I really didn't start seeing my abs until I started lifting heavy, eating more, and do less ab workout.

But again, I have also lost strength in adapting to they schedule

 

[LaneDS]

Decided to actually record myself doing a band "pull up". I need to know if I'm doing these right because I know I'm pulling a lot of weight but I never feel the burn the way I do with other exercises. I also never really feel it in my back.....I think....I honestly can't tell if I'm doing more work in my back or in my shoulders. So here's my form. Let me know what you think.

It's not the best angle, but it's the best I could record.

I'm sure others here can give you a better answer, but it does indeed look like you're pulling almost entirely with your arms. I think maybe if you sit down and get closer you might find it works your back more, but you'll have to play with it or watch the workout to see if they explain it better.

Hey. Very happy with my results. Since I did the hard part with weight loss (cutting), showing results were easier once I started lifting heavy (relative to my weight)

I will say, because I have only been lifting, I notice loss of cardiovascular strength, flexibility, and core strength. Nevertheless, there some really cool stuff with weight lifting, which some are include on P90X and I'm assuming Body Beast.

But yea if we are taking about purely results... I'm convinced that it is almost unnecessary to do ab work on your back, especially if you are experiencing pain. Focus on your core and your diet. I really didn't start seeing my abs until I started lifting heavy, eating more, and do less ab workout.

But again, I have also lost strength in adapting to they schedule

That's great man! I know I don't have to tell you this, but keep up the good work!

Did shoulders and arms just now, was really challenging. Will create a modified ab workout for tomorrow evening and see how that goes (my free standing pull up bar isn't as good as an actual dip machine since it lacks the arm and back support which would be great for what I think you were describing BM, but I'll find something). Thanks again!

 

[SteveMeister]

Decided to actually record myself doing a band "pull up". I need to know if I'm doing these right because I know I'm pulling a lot of weight but I never feel the burn the way I do with other exercises. I also never really feel it in my back.....I think....I honestly can't tell if I'm doing more work in my back or in my shoulders. So here's my form. Let me know what you think.

It's not the best angle, but it's the best I could record.

There are lots of different types of pull-ups that will work different muscles. You're doing something similar to narrow-grip pull-ups, which aren't going to hit your lats as much.

Try simulating wide-grip pull-ups. Imagine you're lying on your stomach. Starting with your arms extended, keep your elbows out to the sides as you pull the bands, with your palms facing forward, until your hands are below your chin. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and try pulling with your lats. Since you're pretending you're lying on your stomach, you won't be able you pull your elbows in "underneath" you like you're doing in the video, so you'll be focusing more on your back.

 

[Korosenai]

Hey guys, what's a good pre workout formula? No xplode started hurting my stomach like a bitch and muscle pharm assault just gave me a small allergic reaction.

 

[SteveMeister]

Hey guys, what's a good pre workout formula? No xplode started hurting my stomach like a bitch and muscle pharm assault just gave me a small allergic reaction.

I generally vary my pre-workout drink every couple months, if I have one at all. When I'm doing a resistance workout I usually do it on an empty stomach -- I want to use my stored glycogen, and replenish it after I workout. I don't want to give my muscles quick fuel to burn off instead.

Lately I've been using an intra-workout drink, XTEND Workout Catalyst. I mix with 10oz water, and sip at it before, during & after my workout. I mix it with Creatine monohydrate.

I've also used Muscle Pharm Assault with no issues, but if you're getting a reaction you definitely don't want that.

In the past I've used Beachbody's Energy & Endurance formula but that was quite a while ago, when I was doing Insanity in the summer of 2012. It's pretty good. Might be worth giving it a shot. It has vitamin C, B6, some amino acids, and caffeine.

 

[Pyrokai]

I'm sure others here can give you a better answer, but it does indeed look like you're pulling almost entirely with your arms. I think maybe if you sit down and get closer you might find it works your back more, but you'll have to play with it or watch the workout to see if they explain it better.

There are lots of different types of pull-ups that will work different muscles. You're doing something similar to narrow-grip pull-ups, which aren't going to hit your lats as much.

Try simulating wide-grip pull-ups. Imagine you're lying on your stomach. Starting with your arms extended, keep your elbows out to the sides as you pull the bands, with your palms facing forward, until your hands are below your chin. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and try pulling with your lats. Since you're pretending you're lying on your stomach, you won't be able you pull your elbows in "underneath" you like you're doing in the video, so you'll be focusing more on your back.

So my suspicions were correct . I will try what you said, but I'm thinking I need to find some possible exercises for my back that are done with free weights or something, because these bands just aren't cutting it. Maybe it's the height (I can't place them any higher), but if I can't get some kind of good workout with them, not sure what I'm gonna do...

Now I kinda feel like I've wasted my first 2 weeks of P90X :

 

[LaneDS]

So my suspicions were correct . I will try what you said, but I'm thinking I need to find some possible exercises for my back that are done with free weights or something, because these bands just aren't cutting it. Maybe it's the height (I can't place them any higher), but if I can't get some kind of good workout with them, not sure what I'm gonna do...

Now I kinda feel like I've wasted my first 2 weeks of P90X :

One of the best part about any of these programs is that there is almost always room for improvement. You're not wasting two weeks... that's two weeks where you worked hard, thought about your form, and came up with ways to improve it. Keep at it!

Last night I decided to use no weights on seated shoulder fly and the switch grip tricep kickbacks because in the past I'd do those moves but do them sloppy. Even with no weight (I later switched to the 2.5 lb Powerblock insert tube things) I felt good about just focusing on good posture and form throughout and didn't feel like it was a waste... so yeah, keep working the program and try not to beat yourself up over things you're working on improving; it all takes time.

 

[yogloo]

Congratulations!!!! How does it feel? And how were your results???

PS, I'm working on my finishing up my second week! Got Legs/Back and ARX today, then Kenpo tomorrow and then that's a wrap for Week 2!

I still don't feel like I'm workin' it hard enough despite doing the most weight I can do. Is it bad that I don't expect much in the way of results when I'm all finished? Did anyone here finish the entire program and was disappointed with his or her results? Share if so!!

Thanks!

I got from 0 (or does 1/2 count as 1?) pull ups to 8 to 10 pull ups depending on how much coffee I drank during the day.
From 20 mins of plyo and dizzy to keeping up with the crazies.
I can now keep up with tony and co in arx albeit my form can still be improved. (stupid scissors)
On my last week I managed to finish yoga for the first time without interruption. Previously the moons killed me everytime.
In total I lost about 13lbs.

In term of looks, my result is not commercial worthy but that is to be expected because I didn't follow the diet. I currently have an extremely defined 2 packs, but you can see clearly that everything under the 2 pack is covered by a thin layer of fat. Damnit. How do I get rid of it! Lol.

But all in all, I am satisfied with my result.
I look midly athletic and feel like a million bucks in term of fitness.

I'm starting the 2nd round. I am hoping that eventually I will be able to see my abs.

 

[Neifirst]

Well, I can definitely recommend Xbox Fitness if you're into P90X. I did plyometrics this morning and I haven't felt this exhausted at the end of it in at least a couple of years. The score tracking and challenges definitely motivated me to keep up a quicker pace throughout the whole workout. The only thing that bummed me out is that the Kinect didn't pick up my movement of the leapfrog squats and I didn't earn any points on it. Not sure how fun it will be to use on the days involving pull-ups since I won't be on camera at all, but it's still a very well thought out application.

 

[Pyrokai]

The Xbox Fitness is actually the only thing that makes me interested in the Xbox One. Really would like to try that someday. Do you know how it works with curls and exercises like that?


Guys, I'm honestly very confused right now in regards to food and what and how much I should be eating. I'm just going to list what I've been doing and you guys can tell me if I should or should not be doing it:

(refresher: I'm 5'10", 150lb, and my goal is to gain muscle weight and lose fat weight)

1. I aim for 100g of protein per day or more, even on rest days/cardio days.

2. I try to eat immediately after a workout. High protein, moderate fat, and low carb....this is what I'm most confused about. I keep reading I should carb it up after a workout. Should I?

3. I'm not actually tracking, but if I had to guess I'd say I'm eating about 1800-2500 calories per day depending. Not sure where I should be.

4. I eat a shit ton of eggs.

Anything outrageously wrong here?

 

[Neifirst]

The Xbox Fitness is actually the only thing that makes me interested in the Xbox One. Really would like to try that someday. Do you know how it works with curls and exercises like that?


Guys, I'm honestly very confused right now in regards to food and what and how much I should be eating. I'm just going to list what I've been doing and you guys can tell me if I should or should not be doing it:

(refresher: I'm 5'10", 150lb, and my goal is to gain muscle weight and lose fat weight)

1. I aim for 100g of protein per day or more, even on rest days/cardio days.

2. I try to eat immediately after a workout. High protein, moderate fat, and low carb....this is what I'm most confused about. I keep reading I should carb it up after a workout. Should I?

3. I'm not actually tracking, but if I had to guess I'd say I'm eating about 1800-2500 calories per day depending. Not sure where I should be.

4. I eat a shit ton of eggs.

Anything outrageously wrong here?

I'm doing shoulders & arms tomorrow so I'll report back. My numbers are almost identical to yours (5'11"; 148lbs) - I think most will tell you that you need to eat more protein, up to 150g perday if you want to gain muscle weight, but don't take my word for it. I have a hard time eating more than 1500 calories in a typical day myself.

 

[toddhunter]

I'll be finished T25 Gamma in a couple of days. I'll write up some thoughts about it, but I'll just say for now it is much better than Beta.

 

[Tash]

Well, I can definitely recommend Xbox Fitness if you're into P90X. I did plyometrics this morning and I haven't felt this exhausted at the end of it in at least a couple of years. The score tracking and challenges definitely motivated me to keep up a quicker pace throughout the whole workout. The only thing that bummed me out is that the Kinect didn't pick up my movement of the leapfrog squats and I didn't earn any points on it. Not sure how fun it will be to use on the days involving pull-ups since I won't be on camera at all, but it's still a very well thought out application.

Oh wow, just looked it up after you mentioned it. That is pretty awesome and might actually sway me to get a Xbone..

Does it have the whole P90X workouts or only the Plyo?
I also wonder if P90X3 is going to be on there. That would be so totally amazing.

I also wonder if the beachbody ones are available in Norway...god I hope so.

Also, here they show how it will look with Insanity - I love the muscle tracking thingie:
http://www.ign.com/videos/2013/11/06/xbox-fitness-on-insanity-using-xbox-ones-kinect

 

[Majestad]

I think it's only the Plyometrics and Shoulder and Arms workouts.

No P90X3.

 

[LaneDS]

Trying to remember all the X1 and X2 workouts that require no equipment (or very little) so I know which workouts to bring home for the holidays. As I've skipped plyo for weeks I plan on making this week (and Xmas) focus on yoga, ploymetrics/plyocide, kenpo, and Insanity so I can workout at my family's place.

Am I missing any other good candidates for workouts that can be done without gear?

 

[Majestad]

Trying to remember all the X1 and X2 workouts that require no equipment (or very little) so I know which workouts to bring home for the holidays. As I've skipped plyo for weeks I plan on making this week (and Xmas) focus on yoga, ploymetrics/plyocide, kenpo, and Insanity so I can workout at my family's place.

Am I missing any other good candidates for workouts that can be done without gear?

Core Synergistics would be a good one, as well as X2 Core if you have the medicine ball.

PAP Lower is also a good one.

 

[LaneDS]

Core Synergistics would be a good one, as well as X2 Core if you have the medicine ball.

PAP Lower is also a good one.

Thanks! Had actually forgotten about core synergistics, probably because holy shit it's hard. That's a solid bunch of workouts to keep me busy when I'm gear-less (and yes, I have medicine balls I can bring with me easily).

 

[toddhunter]

Thanks! Had actually forgotten about core synergistics, probably because holy shit it's hard. That's a solid bunch of workouts to keep me busy when I'm gear-less (and yes, I have medicine balls I can bring with me easily).

I also tended to do chest + shoulders + tri at home with some improvised weights.

 

[RukusProvider]

Xbox one is really the future of home workouts.

Being a 2 time insanity veteran, I just did the Insanity workout after 2 months of not working out. My ass is kicked but I managed to score 101k points which was my goal going in.

I had to have perfect form, couldn't cheat the workouts and no matter what angle I was at, as long as the form was good and pace was respectable, The game rewarded me.

I'm really hoping all of insanity and t25 eventually make it to Xbox live. This follow the DVD shit feels like early 90's in comparison. For those who do Insanity and have someone with a XB1, go try it. You'll love it or I'll come to your house and power jump your ass into the ground.

 

[Tash]

So there is really only parts of the workouts on Kinect fitness? That's kinda bad

 

[SteveMeister]

So there is really only parts of the workouts on Kinect fitness? That's kinda bad

I'm not sure given how much the workout programs cost by themselves anyone could reasonably expect to get the entirety of P90X and Insanity and all of the others for $60. That'd be a hell of a bargain

I thought it'd be obvious you'd end up making in-app purchases and/or downloading workouts at the very least. Also, in January of '15 there's going to be a subscription fee -- maybe that will cover the cost of additional workouts?