Is P90X the Best Way to Get Ripped?

The P90X program has grown from late-night infomercial to a fitness-industry success story. But you may be wondering if P90X is the best way to build strong, defined muscles. In short: it's complicated. The P90X program contains all of the best elements of a well-rounded fitness program, but there are no clear studies showing that it's more effective than pumping iron at the gym.

  1. What the Experts Say

    • An independent study conducted by the American Council on Exercise concluded that the P90X program contains some of the best elements to get your body in great shape and build muscle. The research team agreed that the P90X program exceeded fitness industry standards for improving fitness. However, the study did not test P90X's efficacy at building muscle compared to other fitness routines, like lifting free weights, kettlebells, weight machines or rival full-body workout programs, like Insanity or Tae Bo.

    High-Intensity Interval Training

    • John Porcari, Ph.D, lead researcher from the University of Wisconsin's Exercise and Health Program, believes that high-intensity interval training is the best way to get your body into great shape, both in terms of weight loss and building muscle. High-intensity interval training is a exercise technique that combines periods of intense activity with periods of moderate activity or rest. For example, in P90X, you perform as many jump squats as possible in a 30-second interval and then rest for 60 seconds. You can practice the same high-intensity interval training exercises on your own, but if you like to have someone else lead the routine and watch the time, P90X might be a better option for you.

    Muscle Confusion

    • According to "Shape" magazine, one of the best reasons to try the P90X training program comes down to a concept called "muscle confusion." The American Council on Exercise explains further that "exercise scientists call it daily undulating periodization, which is the principle that by changing up workouts regularly, the body doesn’t have time to adapt and become efficient at the exercise." In short: the more you confuse your muscle, the quicker you'll burn calories and build muscle. To make sure that you never plateau with or without P90X, switch your exercises up regularly. For example, if you always perform the same circuit at the gym, try reversing the order next time.

    Things to Consider

    • There is no fast track to ripped muscles and with the P90X program, you'll need to put in the time and effort to really see results within 90 days. It's also an intense program that requires you to be in good health to start with. If you are suffering from heart disease or a chronic illness, obese, aging or brand new to exercise, be sure to check with your doctor to see if the P90X program is right for you. Lastly, the P90X program is designed to integrate with a corresponding diet plan for weight loss and optimal-fitness nutrition. If you're trying to get ripped and are still eating too many calories, fatty or processed foods, you might not see the gains that you're after.