Tuesday, March 18, 2014

CrossFit vs. P90X vs. Insanity

Hi all! Today we'll be talking about some of the hottest workout trends and which one is right for you. Have you ever heard of CrossFit, P90X, or Insanity? Don't lie -- most likely you've heard of at least one of them. But what differentiates each program? Do you have to follow a specific diet for each? What are the risks involved with each? Well... We're about to find out!



CrossFit


The technical: CrossFit, Inc. is a fitness company founded by Greg Glassman in 2000. CrossFit's exercise program is practiced by members of approximately 7,000 affiliated gyms, most of which are located in the United States, and by individuals who complete daily workouts posted on the company's website.

What is it?: The workouts associated with CrossFit include movements in various rhythms and repetitions that are performed at a level of high intensity. CrossFit targets various skills, including: endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility and power.

Common exercises: back squats, deadlifts and presses, pushups, pullups, situps, cycling, running, swimming, and rowing.

Time commitment: an interval workout lasts 4-20 minutes depending on the number of exercises; "AMRAP" workouts last 7-20 minutes; workouts last generally under 35 minutes.

Cost: $100-300 for a CrossFit gym membership

Dietary Requirements: Caveman or Paleolithic Model for nutrition is recommended; carbohydrates should account for about 40% of your total caloric load; fat should be predominantly monounsaturated and account for about 30% of your total caloric load; protein should make up the remaining 30%.

Risks: generally more injuries because of the fast pace and high intensity training; common: rhabdomyolysis, a kidney condition most commonly induced by excessive exercise

Who does CrossFit?: Jessica Biel, Max Greenfield, Kelly Clarkson, Brad Pitt, Vanessa Hudgens, Cameron Diaz, Jessica Alba

Other things to note: CrossFit-ers use a lot of acronyms! Hint: WOD = Workout of the Day, AMRAP = As Many Reps As Possible

P90X


The technical: Created by trainer Tony Horton, the program includes 12 intense workouts that use resistance and body-weight training, cardio, plyometrics, ab work, martial arts and yoga, along with a nutrition plan, fitness guide and workout calendar.

What is it?: Home exercise regimen known for its high-intensity workout designed to help you lose weight, tone, and gain muscle in 90 days

Common exercises: pilates + yoga + intense weight training

Time commitment: 1-1 1/2 hours per day, 6 days per week

Cost: $155 for basic DVD set (extra equipment is required, though: pull-up bar, dumbbells, resistance bands, and exercise mat)

Dietary Requirements: Frequent meals comprised of lean proteins, low-fat dairy, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and low-calorie condiments; three phases of diet lasting four weeks each

Risks: Not recommended for people who are "out of shape," risks arise when limiting diet too much (remember to rest and recover after each workout!), overtraining that can lead to kidney and heart problems, high resting blood pressure, increased resting heart rate, depression, anxiety, and disturbed sleep patterns

Who does P90X?: Pink, Sheryl Crow, Ray Lewis (Baltimore Ravens), Ashton Kutcher, Demi Moore

Other things to note: P90X and Insanity are both put out by Beach Body, a health & fitness company (check out their other programs here!)

Insanity


The technical: Designed by Shaun T, this 60-day home workout includes 10 DVDs packed with cardio and plyometric drills with intervals of strength, power, resistance, and core training. No equipment or weights are needed, and you don't have to be in extreme shape to do it.

What is it?: Described as “the hardest workout programme ever put on DVD," the workout program uses MAX Interval Training. This involves performing long bursts of maximum-intensity exercises with short periods of rest. The system includes workouts that alternate between aerobic and anaerobic intervals.

Common exercises: plyometrics, cardio, strength training (with body weight)

Time commitment: 20-60 minutes, 6 days per week

Cost: $120-200

Dietary Requirements: 5 small, healthy meals per day; increased calorie intake in the second month of the program (workouts become more intense)

Risks: torn ligaments and rhabdomyolysis, which may cause kidney failure.

Who does Insanity?: Taylor Lautner, Usher


For more information on these workouts, click here! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below!

CSUFitness Team

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