The P90X+ Journey Begins

The main thing I've learned from training with P90X is that you have to constantly be switching it up if you want to get results. I was the classic gym rat that would be diligent for 3-4 months and then hit a wall. The X has smashed thru all that but anything you do can cause you to plateau if you do it to consistently without variety. So after 2 rounds of P90X, I knew I needed something new to break thru and surpass the results I've achieved so far. I actually purchased P90X+ when I bought P90X back in early part of 2008. But those DVDs have actually not even been touched until now. I wanted at least 2 full rounds of the X before I moved up to X+.

I started on Monday and I love the whole idea of completely switching it up from the original X. I've heard some (guys mostly) say that they don't like the + because it's more cardio based. That's true but it's definitely a very intense system that works at creating true muscle strength, not just mass.

The X is more traditionally based where you pick a weight to do 8-10 reps to build size. But in X+, you pick a weight that you can do a move for 30 seconds, or 60 seconds, maybe even 90 seconds. There are some moves with no weights that you do for 2 minutes. So it's not working to failure with a particular weight, it's working hard for a certain amount of time with the last 15 seconds being tough. If it's too easy you bump it up next time.

Because these are all new moves, the first 3 sessions have been more about getting the moves down. Still, I'm completely drench when I've finished. I totally see this as a fluid way of training, constantly changing and adapting. What's also interesting about X+ is that the classic X resistance training comes in the recovery week, where it was set up the other way around in the X.

If you are doing P90X now, I would highly recommend doing at least 2 rounds of it before attempting P90X+. There are some serious core moves that if you have not adequately strengthened your core, you could really hurt your back. There are some things I've done already that I KNOW there is no way I could have done even after my first round of the X. Some of my favorite moves so far - O Crunch Push-Ups (see acct pic below). Hindu Pike Push-Ups - 1/2 Dervish (got to engage your core!!) - Scorpion Plank - 360 Chataranga Run - Banana Mason. Keep an eye out for Acct pics to come with some of these moves to give you something to look forward to.