Some students and faculty stay in shape with P90X

No matter what time of the day or which television channel, viewers can usually find before and after pictures that show how three easy installments can transform any average Joe’s body into a perfectly sculpted physique.

P90X, an at-home workout DVD created by exercise instructor Tony Horton, emphasizes intense physical cardiovascular and strength exercise along with a closely controlled diet plan designed to compliment training.

There are 12 different routines assigned periodically throughout the 90-day workout regimen. These routines range from yoga to push-ups. The theory behind the workout centers on confusion for muscle groups through the implementation of alternate workouts, the harder the body works to keep up.

Through an exercise called “muscle confusion,” which provides a variety of workouts intended to stimulate new muscle growth, P90X challenges its users to get in shape in 90 days.

“Several of my friends have been using it,” said Dr. Scott Sailor, the Athletic Training Program Coordinator at Fresno State.

Even some students have committed to confusing their muscles.

“The thing I like about it is that it’s not only a six day structured workout plan, but it also includes a nutrition plan,” said freshman Lauren Goin. “Anyone who has ever tried getting in shape knows the diet is just as important as the actual workouts.”

The three-phase nutrition plan, created by famous diet consultant Carrie Wiatt, works in conjunction with the rigorous exercises, providing the proper amount of protein and carbohydrates depending on where you are in the program.

While the popularity of P90X may speak for itself, senior J.R. Gregory admits that it’s a lot more than he was expecting.

“Each workout takes up only an hour a day but it’s hard to keep up with the training,” Gregory said.

The wallet is also something to take into consideration. The DVDs cost $120, available in installments.

“The DVDs aren’t cheap. But keeping up with the diet is what really gets expensive,” Gregory said.

The strict nutrition plan and the intense workouts are certainly not for everybody, but the reputation of the product speaks for itself, according to those who have used it.

Many celebrities and athletes attest to their results from using the workout plan, including actor Ashton Kutcher and Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray Lewis.

“P90X isn’t just a 90-day intense workout plan, but it teaches you changes in your lifestyle to stay physically fit forever,” Goin said.