The Beachbody P90x fitness workout is arguably one of the toughest weight loss/body shaping programs out there. People who have both finished or gave up on the program will tell you that it will test your very limits physically because of the heavy routines you need to do every single day.
It’s natural to be intimidated by a program like P90x, especially with the shock your body will get for Day 1 of the program. But you shouldn’t let starting the program scare you. Preparing for the start of the P90x workout will arm your body for the challenges that lie ahead. Below are some things you can do to prepare for the P90x workout.
Do daily stretches
Limber up your body at least one week before you start the P90x program. Do daily stretches to make your muscle tendons more flexible and prevent any injuries. Try to do a 20 minute long stretch every day, paying extra attention to the legs, the shoulders and your core. To help you out you can go use the X Stretch portion of the P90x DVD.
Start your diet and supplements
The P90x workout is not just about doing various exercises and workouts, it also pays a lot of attention to a healthy diet. Doing the first day of the P90x program AND starting a new diet at the same time could be too much for some people. By gradually easing into the diet, you won’t get so jarred by the first few days of the program. The one week lead time will also allow you to think about the recommended 50/30/20 ratios that are part of the P90x diet program for Phase 1. You should also start taking the supplements you intend to take for the duration of the program.
Do cardio routines
The area that will probably test you the most during the first few days in the P90x program is your cardio condition. If you don’t prepare beforehand you’ll be huffing and wheezing not even halfway through the one hour allocation, you’ll probably feel your legs are on fire as well. Prepare for the program by doing cardio a week or two before you start. You can use the P90x Cardio X DVD to help you in doing your cardio routine. Using the DVD is also an opportunity to check out what kind of cardio exercises you will be required to do.