Coach Wayne’s “Must Have” list for P90X
If I had to go back in time and repeat my first round of P90X, knowing what I know now, there is a short list of items I feel I couldn’t do without. Every one of these items, in my opinion, were critical to maximizing my results with the P90X program. I used each of them several times per week, if not every day. I hope this list helps you weed through all of the available equipment and supplements to determine what best meets your needs … and your budget! (Please don’t feel like I’m giving you a sale pitch. These are all items I feel really work and are worth the $$ to me, but my budget may be different than yours)
1) Pullup Bar with multiple hand positions = The workouts involve a variety of pullups, and having a good, seven position pullup bar will help you maximize this portion of your workout. Plus, you’ll be using it a lot so you’ll want a sturdy one that will last. I bought mine from Beachbody due to its stronger materials and durability, although it was a little more expensive than the knockoff brands (I paid $59). I’m glad I did, because it holds up to my abuse just fine (even when I was 255 lbs). Learn more about the P90X Pullup bar HERE.
2) Adjustable Dumbbells = I know the exercises can be done with bands, but free weights will definitely maximize your results. In my first 2 rounds, I used LifeSmart adjustable dumbbells, which are cheaper than the Bowflex model ($200 for the pair), and they worked great. They adjust from 5-55 lbs, and are very durable. I found mine at Academy Sports. I finally splurged on the nicer Bowflex 552’s after a couple rounds, and they are a bit more ($260 on sale) but also nicer to use. I haven’t used the Powerblocks, but they are also good. Look around, even on Craigs LIst, and you may find a deal.
3) PowerStands = These are more expensive ($39) than the cheap plastic pushup bars you get at the store, but they are solid, very stable, and very durable. They won’t tip over shake when you are pushing hard for those last reps. They also put your wrists in the correct positon to prevent joint problems. I love my PowerStands. They take my pushups to the next level, and they will last forever! Learn more about PowerStands HERE.
4) Yoga Mat = Get one of these for Ab Ripper X. If you try to do a bunch of situps with your tailbone directly on the floor, you’ll regret it! I picked mine up at Target.
6) Whey Protein Powder = You will need to consume a lot of protein to fuel your muscles. A good quality protein powder is critical to giving you what your body needs, unless you like eating 20 cans of tuna per day! Haha. Beachbody sells Whey protein powder, but I primarily use Wheybolic Extreme 60 or Dymatize Iso-100 because it is a little more affordable. Read more about protein HERE.
7) My Fitness Pal (or another similar calorie tracking system) = I love My Fitness Pal. It’s a free iPhone app that tells me exactly where I’m at on my nutrition. Following the nutrition guide is critical to getting great results, and tracking your calories, protein, carbs, and fat will help you do that. In a study, people who “tried to eat healthy” actually consumed 50% more calories than people who actually tracked their calories. Put in the effort to do this!!! Please!! Learn more about MFP HERE.
8) Workout Sheets = These are easy and free, but you’ve got to keep track of your weight and reps on everything. How else will you monitor your progress and know how to push yourself to the max? Get downloadable worksheets HERE.
9) Creatine = This supplement helps volumize the muscles with water so that they can draw more nutrients in to aid with recovery and muscle building. I get mine from GNC or Bodybuilding.com. It is important to cycle creatine, 2 months on and 1 month off if you use monohydrate. Kre-Alkalyn doesn’t have to by cycled. If you are unsure about using creatine, google it and read multiple reviews. Learn more about creatine HERE.
