What are /r/P90X's favorite Products & Services?

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haha, good luck. If you are going to be serious this time I would recommend 2 things:

1) (if you don't already have one) a heart rate monitor. You can get one for like $30 on amazon. Being able to easily see you heart rate can really help you complete the workouts. If you notice that your heart rate is really high, you can back off for a little bit, and then you will be able to go longer without wearing yourself out. On the other hand, if you feel tired, but see that your heart rate is low, it gives you the motivation to push harder, knowing that your body can take more. More importantly, it will allow you to see how many calories you burn in a workout, witch is really important for my second suggestion...

2) (if you have a smartphone) I would STRONGLY recommend getting the MyFitnessPal app. It really helps you realize how many calories you are actually taking in during the day. I didn't really think I ate that much when I started, I only weighed 170, but I was definitely surprised when I actually added it all up (which is actually pretty easy because pretty much everything I eat is already in the app's database, and you can scan bar-codes). Knowing how many calories you take in, verses how many you burn, is an extremely powerful tool when trying to lose weight. You can't argue with the numbers. When you are trying to decide if you want to eat something, "I shouldn't I'm on a diet" carries a lot less weight than "I have 100 calories left for the day, do I really want to waste them on this?". Plus, and this has been my favorite part, if you record your weight every night (which takes like 2 seconds), the app will give you a graph over time, so you can see visually how your weight loss is going. It is also very motivating when you feel like you aren't making progress to look back and see how far you have actually come.

Knowledge is power. Power is change.

I started last week and felt very similar.

You are not alone. Do your best and forget the rest.

Edit: I googled "I hate plyometrics" and got 1.2M results. You are very much not alone.

I would just do p90x3 they are only 30 mins long. Also I kind of think the point of p90x is to push yourself to the limit. I wouldn't recommend it. http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/88891-splitting-up-p90x-workouts read this

I followed Fat Shredder for 6 months + and I am back on it again right now. I owe my success to MFP and I recommend you try it. It is easiest with a smart phone. My diary is public so add me http://www.myfitnesspal.com/food/diary/amlucent.

I think /u/giveer's idea of picking up a cheap tablet is a good one.

As an alternative option, perhaps try using Plex (https://plex.tv/ad/getstarted) to stream the videos. You'd rip your P90X DVDs to your home computer, then the Plex Media Server on that computer allows you to stream those files to any of your compatible devices (phones, tables, some TVs, game consoles) as long as you have an internet connection.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.myworkouts

For me, this is perfect. No ads, free, loads of features. I only use it for indoor but I think there's a GPS running/cycling tracker with it. The developers say that in the future, some features might be locked down. But nevermind, it's free today!

I wake up and work out immediately. Eating before p90x, even if I wait an hour, makes me feel sick.

The hour after you work out, your body is primed to accept nutrients and use them efficiently.

source

You may not be looking forward to working out hungry, but my hunger shuts off within 5 minutes of starting the workout. Give it a try.

That's great that the two will line up for you :) Click the green "+frontpage" button at the top of the sidebar on r/90daysgoal to subscribe. Then the sign up for the round on this form.

Before i even start the warm-up i relax my legs and jiggle my patella around to get some lubrication flowing. It helps me a lot.

I'm also going in "one of these days" to get fluid injections. The cartilage on the back of my knees is degraded. I can't think of the medical term, and they grind and click causing pain during certain moves.

I also take, Orthopedic Dr. recommended, http://www.costco.com/Kirkland-Signature%E2%84%A2-Glucosamine-with-MSM%2c-375-Tablets.product.11245398.html

I'm a costco member already so I buy the kirkland branded multi-vitamin and kirklkand branded fish oil vitamin and take one per day of each.

I"m not sold that either do anything substantial but hopefully they are not hurting. If member serves the multi-vitamin is less then 20 bucks for 300+ and the fish oil varies but can be around the same.

This is the multi-vitamin I believe. http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11098484

If you have a Costco membership, you can buy 6 1 pint containers of egg white for about $10. It's considerably cheaper than buying it at a regular grocery store.

Egg whites at Costco

It sounds like he is confusing P90X and Crossfit. There have been reports of people going way overboard with Crossfit and injuring themselves. Additionally, the types of exercises included in Crossfit can be dangerous if done incorrectly, and there are Crossfit instructors out there that don't really know what they are doing and teach bad/dangerous form. Finally, there have been a cases where people doing Crossfit suffered from kidney failure.

P90X is a safe program that can be adjusted to your fitness level.

I used print-outs of those PDF's my first time through P90X, and I don't know if it'll help you, but perhaps someone else might find a use for it. This round of P90X, I bought an app for the iPhone called Fitness Tracker 90 that is pretty good for tracking progress.

It follows the format of the DVD's, particularly where the workouts are repeated out of sequence (such as Chest & Back where Standard Push-ups are move one and thirteen). I've tracked my first 30 days with it and been pretty happy.

Again, it's not what you're looking for, but maybe it'll be a usable alternative.

I would suggest myfitnesspal for tracking your calories and macronutrient intake. The P90x nutrition guide says to use a protein/carb/fat ratio of 50/30/20 for Phase 1, 40/40/20 for Phase 2, and 20/60/20 for Phase 3. There are a bunch of calculators online that you can use to calculate your daily caloric intake. They all end up with different numbers but they're close enough as an estimate. You can try this one

This happens to me too, but you can add food to different days.

Now, I have the iPhone version, but maybe it's the same for Android: Around the 1/3 point of the screen, there is a ticker that states the date. Either side of the ticker has arrows, press the left arrow to move back one day and add your late dinner!

If it's not there, you could also use the site just for those late meals.

I have an Everlast vest, something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Everlast-EVERGRIP-20LB-Weighted-Training/dp/B00E8MKYFW

It's very comfortable but not adjustable. I am not sure what you're considering, but Amazon has a few options, and I bet that fitness stores near you probably have a good selection as well.

Calorie counting will be the most important thing for you. I'd get a kitchen scale before anything else. Check out /r/loseit.

If you're going to do P90X you can substitute in a set of exercise bands for weights. I have these ones from Amazon and they've held up great over the years.

I'm leaning towards Power Blocks. I see two options here and I'm slightly confused.

The PowerBlock Elite seems like it can be expandable and it is more compact. Its also cheaper. Amazon link

The PowerBlock Personal Trainer doesnt look like it can expand and that it is slightly larger. ITs also slightly more expensive. Amazon link

Why/how are the two models different? The Elite seems like the better choice here right? Is one model newer than the other? I feel like I'm missing something here.

I ordered one of those but it got lost in the ether ( showed up as shipped but after 2 weeks tracking never updated beyond info sent to shipper so I cancelled ). I ordered this one instead and have really liked the functionality of it. Nice and stable. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0098MAYNY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Honestly, I'm not sure. I started taking them right at the same time my body was starting to adjust and get un-sore. I haven't been sore since taking them, even though I've been pushing myself as hard as I can this week. I guess the only real way to test it would be to stop taking them for a week and see what happens.

It's hard to argue with the science and research that has gone in to them, and for $26 for 400 capsules it's not breaking the bank. These are the ones I got:

http://www.amazon.com/Optimum-Nutrition-BCAA-1000mg-Capsules/dp/B000SOXALE/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1441985000&sr=1-1&keywords=bcaa

I have this one. I found it extremely helpful in the pull-up range you are in. Remember, there is a reason you stay in the 8-10 rep range for most of the exercises. 1-2 good, but 6-10 is better. More importantly (for me at least) was that it let me do more than one (or zero!) of the more challenging pull-ups to start with, which works some different muscles.

I found it far better than the chair, as I could be much more consistent in the amount of assistance I received. The down side to them is that they do change the resistance curve of pull ups - you get a lot more "assist" at the bottom than the top, so you have to be careful to not "launch" yourself. This isn't much different than not "cheating" by rocking your body during curls and such, though, so it's not a huge deal - it's just another place where form matters.

Buy them, use them, rejoice in them.

The thing about using a chair, is that it is super easy to cheat. I really have no clue about the bands you posted. I don't see how they are put on and off. I actually use the P90X version which have a quick release mechanism. They provide just enough resistence to let me get two more pull ups. It's the equivalent of switching to knees during pushups.

There are pullup assist bands available. The Beachbody versions are more expensive than the normal. They are the bomb! I can usually get one or two pull ups and then my arms are shot, these let me pull off one or two couple more. With a chair, I found myself not being consistent on how much weight I put on it, causing me to not work as hard. You could probably just use your normal bands for that, but I like these because they are adjustable and I don't have to move from door to pullup bar depending on what I'm doing.

It is this product, and I'm very surprised to see that it's more than twice what I paid for it just a few months ago...

Android? Fit XT has most of beachbody programs. Its a tracking app. What you did, how did you do etc. Hope this helps!

Nothing beats a real pull up. Get a pull up tower. I have this one which is I used in an apartment, and it works great:

https://www.amazon.com/Barbell-Power-Rack-Exercise-Stand/dp/B00HYQP72O/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1LYPE6VLYQVL6&keywords=free%2Bstanding%2Bpull%2Bup%2Bbar&qid=1669700609&sprefix=free%2Bstanding%2Bpull%2Bup%2Bbar%2Caps%2C376&sr=8-5&th=1

Yes, very much so. You are depleting your glycogen (energy) stores during a workout, which comes from carbs. You need to restore that energy in your one hour post-workout window.

I recommend all p90x'ers become familiar with the bb.com nutrition forums. There is so much to learn.

I really liked the P90x recovery drink, but as Jimbo here posted above, they were/are very expensive. After the discontinued the recovery drink in the videos, I found Endurox, which I really like. Both the orange and lime are very good.

The original orange was the bomb. I'd blend it up with ice and water in a NutriBullet and it was delicious. Apparently they changed the formula because it was too high in calories or something. The next one wasn't nearly as good.

I switched to Endurox, which isn't quite as tasty as Beachbody, but it has more flavors and is still very good. The lime is the best.

The one they make still tastes nothing like the original. Closest thing is this with a orange packet of Emergen-C. Trust me.

I have these medicine balls and my stability ball is from Beachbody (excellent quality too)

I use a thicker mat for yoga and all the floor work. Went with this one and it’s fine, smooshy, nothing special. It was about $20 bucks:

ProsourceFit Extra Thick Yoga and... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JJ2GGLW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I used to use Nike free cross trainers. I recently switched to the costco athletic shoes and they work great and are only 16 bucks http://www.costco.com/Kirkland-Signature%E2%84%A2-Men%27s-Athletic-Shoe---WhiteBlue.product.100032144.html

You could wear your heart rate monitor for a period of time you know you won't be doing much activity (watching a movie or something) and see what it tells you. Use that number to get some kind of "calories burned per minute while resting" average that you can multiple times the number of minutes in a given workout and then subtract it out accordingly.

All that said, those things are notoriously inaccurate and some would say over-complicating things. The best approach, IMO, is to spend a few weeks figuring out your TDEE (start with an online calculator and refine the number based on your results).

The TDEE incorporates your average daily activity (including exercise) and then you can just eat at a surplus/deficit of that depending your goals. Some days you'll be over and some days you'll be under the true number, but because it's an average it evens out in the long run and keeps things dead simple.

Ooh, lots of questions.

• Best to stick as close to the plan if you can, so if you can at all do Monday, do it. I sometimes even work out really late in the evening just to make sure I've done the work for that day.
• Pullups totally totally OK. Just means that your back needs to develop, but if you keep using the chair and keep increasing the reps you're doing, you'll improve.
• Powder depends on whether you're going to eat enough meat to get the protein in you need. Check this video to make those calculations. It might seem like a lot, but those are the numbers. 24g is almost certainly not going to be enough. So no, you don't need to buy powder if you don't want to, but you do need to get your protein somehow. The calculations will also show you what your fat limits should look like.
• Nutrition in weiners looks like this - that's not so good, 14g of fat per 8g of protein. Sure there's protein in there, but you need to concentrate on finding good protein sources that are low in saturated fat, which usually means lean chicken and fish, along with egg whites where you can.

Protip: Make your own V8 because the stuff you buy in a can is extremely processed and contains high amounts of sodium. I tend to make a batch each month and freeze a few gallons of it - so much healthier for you. I use a slight variation of this recipie: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/homemade-vegetable-juice-cocktail/detail.aspx

edit - forgot to mention I also toss in some healthy green stuff in there as well b/c I hate drinking it w/ just water or juice.

plyo is great. Here is a link for it. There are only one or two moves that require a little bigger space but you can easily modify them to make it work.

I didn't know about the body builder's rule - I agree it contradicts. I've been following my calculations for a level II type person.

I agree it's hard to take in that much protein if you not a total carnivore, as I was not. I don't hit my targets all the time, but here's an example of a good day:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/gi5hut72btfrohg/2012-11-06%2008.31.24.png

Hope that helps?

Sign up here: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/

It's free with awesome free apps and a community-built calorie database.

• Go to "My Home" -> Goals -> "Change Goals" -> Custom
• Put in your target daily calories from the p90x guide.
• Set up the percentages from your phase.
• Log everything.

If you do it right and aren't cheating or lying to yourself about what you eat, you will lose fat (maybe not weight though).

Check your portions. Try using http://www.myfitnesspal.com to track calories. You're probably eating way more than you should. Eat small portions and load up on veggies. Eat as much kale, carrots, broccoli, asparagus, etc as you can eat.

Things you don't think about like a handful of peanuts (healthy right?) really do make a huge difference (60g of peanuts, which is a handful, is +230 cal, lots of that being fat). Really get on the diet end of things.

Also, if you had a gut before you probably won't get rid of it until your second round unless you are blisteringly on top of your diet and really crushing each workout.

http://www.ehow.com/how-does_5247094_caffeine-stimulate-appetite_.html

I would really try to get down to 1 cup (max). Additionally, drinking a couple cups of coffee back-to-back in the morning is a recipe for crashing hard later in the day. You should only drink small amounts ever few hours.

Thank you! I was anti working out for my entire life, and look at me now lol. If I can you do it, you can to. Just remember, do what you can, you don't have to follow 'the kids' just press play and be in the room! You got this

I do have adjustable dumbbells, they are not the Bowflex brand, but I do really enjoy them and the flexibility they provide, as well how quickly and change the weight.

If you must know the exact ones I have https://www.amazon.com/Weider-WEIRDER-Select-Adjustable-Dumbbell/dp/B07G8NDVT2/ref=sr_1_7?dchild=1&keywords=weirder+weights&qid=1617572861&sr=8-7

They are good, but it's recommended to only change the weights by 10lb increments.

It's not too bad. I keep the chalk in a small box and apply it there. (I actually bought a chalk brick rather than loose powder for that purpose)

As for athletic tape.. You can find it at academy or Amazon.. It's often used to wrap it on your feet if you have an ankle sprain

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072MCYFMG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_5GH2XX7ZKP4NJX36QZV1

That’s what I thought too, but according to all of the images of online when buying it, as well as the directions it shows them as up.

Yes4All Heavy Duty Wall Mounted Pull Up Bar for Crossfit Training https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07W6YKHF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XNSKZT1KNYBHSM9BA8G4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/BRLON-SelectTech-52-5-Adjustable-Weights-Dumbbell/dp/B08B3R2VZ3/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=bowflex+selecttech+adjustable&qid=1611953425&sr=8-2

https://www.amazon.com/Bowflex-SelectTech-Adjustable-Dumbbells-Pair/dp/B001ARYU58/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Bowflex+Select+Tech+Adjustable+552+Dumbbell&qid=1611953359&sr=8-1

I purchased a ‘power tower’ about 6 months ago for pull-ups and dips, that’s I’ve really enjoyed. No damage at all to doors, and a lot more versatility. Of course the cost is higher though, but a great alternative to a standard door bar.

RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Power... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071HT1DH1?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Here you go. A pullup tower for 100 bucks. Ain't nothin to it.

https://www.amazon.com/Stamina-50-1690-1690-Power-Tower/dp/B002Y2SUU4/ref=sr_1_18_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=pull+up+tower&qid=1609355577&sr=8-18-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyMVdMWDUzTDlXUE1UJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMjY5Mzg1MVhYWk1UR0EzTUNOTCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNDk2ODU4MUJPTU5XNEY0S1ROQiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX210ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

I used this for My first year of p90x and loved it , just takes about 4 screws and supports up to 220 lbs and it has a swivel bar that can be used for inverted rows. https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Basic-Pullup-Pull-Progression/dp/B008DNAKQK

The doors in my apt are ADA accessible, so they are wider than normal. This one worked for me amazon link

It was called IkonFitness when I bought it, but is the same image. It is a bit pricey for a pullup bar, but it is very sturdy and requires no assembly. It fits doors to 36.2", which is what mine are.

I got one on amazon for $40 I think and it’s the perfect length for my frame. You don’t want one too long that makes it awkward to push up like as in a chest press. I have this one SKLZ Super Sandbag - Heavy Duty Training Weight Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0053C3RO6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gqEpCb4WZD7S0 I think it’s really well made, I’d never worry about the stitching coming out But if you do decide to make one, I’ve heard of people using a backpack or a small duffel bag filled with whatever you have around that weighs enough for you Good luck with your program, I love Tony

The app is myworkouts: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.myworkouts

The Heart Rate Monitor is UK branded HA Sports, an eBay sports shop. I've started buying locally, not from overseas. It was £21.99. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/133328830966

✌️

They seem to work seamlessly together.

I used this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WTSMP7H/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 .....it has helped me a lot! it has 3 bands and you can remove as you need. I do as many regular as i can and then add the band.

That’s what I did. I got a pack of bands and as soon as I could do eight pull-ups with a given band I switch to the next lighter one.

As /u/simplesoul89 said, they’re good to have around for other jobs. The heaviest band claims to provide up to 170 lbs of resistance; that’s more than my biggest dumbbells, so I can use those to keep working on squats and deadlifts. They also work well for horizontal rows, weighted push-ups, weighted hip-ups, and other stuff where dumbbells might be awkward.

Hmm, it's really hard for me to say. It seems like they don't make the exact model I have anymore, but this one is extremely close: https://www.amazon.com/PowerBlock-Personal-Trainer-Set-Dumbbell/dp/B000NWTX6W/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=powerblock+50+plus&qid=1553043208&s=sporting-goods&sr=1-1-fkmr0

What noise do people complain about? I've never noticed mine being loud at all. A little bit of clank while moving them around, but not at all loud.

When I started, I wasn't able to do pull-ups and even negatives were too hard. I used to use resistance bands with the door attachment but wasn't really happy with the results I was getting. I use this pull up assist with my pull up bar and I'm much happier with it. It's not mimicking a pull up motion like the door attachment method does; it's reducing the weight you're lifting when doing the same motion as a real pull up. You can use different strength bands or reduce the tension as you get stronger.

I have something similar to these:https://www.amazon.com/Go-Active-Lifestyles-Resistance-Bands/dp/B07577GVYY/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1539949721&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=go+active+lifestyles+resistance+bands&dpPl=1&dpID=51JXhGevPxL&ref=p...

They do not have ankle straps so they're more for upper body.

This was just the first one on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Stamina-50-1690-1690-Power-Tower/dp/B002Y2SUU4/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1531162632&sr=8-5&keywords=standing+pull+up+bar

Could probably find a cheaper one, or build your own with piping.

Good to know, because I just saw an AmazonBasics Prime Day Deal on medicine balls right now.

Bodylastics Bodylastics Stackable (12 Pcs) MAX Tension Resistance Bands Sets. This Leading Exercise Band System Includes 5 of Our Best Quality Anti-Snap Exercise Tubes, Heavy Duty Components, and a Travel Bag. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006NZZH18/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KAudBb1XYFGV7

May be a little more expensive but you get what you pay for. I still use bands from the first set I bought 10 years ago. I’ve bought 3 sets over the years just to add to what I already have. Never had a snap or breakage. Customer service and support is great as well.

Id also recommend LIVEExercise.com, specifically the Chiseled show. Great band focused workouts.

It sounds like I’m shilling, but these bands helped me turn my life around and I’m eternally grateful for it.

Edit: I didn’t realize this was the p90x sub my bad. Love p90x as well. German potato soup is excellent.

I used to travel a lot and found that almost every hotel I stayed at had a gym with weights, and some even a cage on which you can do pull ups. Barring that, you can buy a pull up bar that fits into a nylon bag for travel. It's not cheap though:

https://www.amazon.com/All-one-Stand-Alone-Pull/dp/B001KUURTS/

I used this model for nearly five years and never had any issues with it. Later I invested in a fixed pull up tower that also doubled as a bench for presses when we bought a house that had a dedicated gym space for me.

Not sure about your set, but my set of resistance bands came with this door anchor attachment (there are some others on Amazon that look like they could be sturdier, but I've never had a problem with that one). Basically, you anchor it by closing a door with the "stopper" on the outside and then slip your bands through the loop.

EDIT: It looks like another comment links to a video doing this with a spare band handle. That's probably fine, as long as your set has detachable handles and you have a spare.

BeachBody is pretty much all in on the container system now. I even was looking at the old Body Beast program and they've modified the meal plan to show the container system

No reason to buy BB brand containers - https://www.amazon.com/Portion-Control-Containers-Color-Coded-Labeled/dp/B01LJ5ZBE4

Or just use a measuring cup. For $9 though it was worth it for us for the extra convenience. Weighing food sounds like a PITA.

powerblocks for the win! I've been doing P90X on and off for years but it is a different beast when you actually get free weights to use. I've felt more change in the last three weeks using powerblocks than I have ever felt doing P90X with bands. My GF even got the sport versions and it's helped alot. Seriously, if you are serious about consistent exercise there's nothing better than having a set of real weights to use.

https://www.amazon.com/PowerBlock-Elite-Dumbell-50-Pound-pair/dp/B00G7RHGNY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496783458&sr=8-1&keywords=powerblocks

This is pretty much the one I have.

https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-IP-DUO60-Multi-Functional-Pressure/dp/B00FLYWNYQ/ref=pd_lpo_79_bs_tr_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=DRFYRQ14TMSK748RH8CK

I use the recovery drink linked below. The only reason I use it is it helps me reach my protein intake goals for the day with the 30 grams per serving, it is however a bit expensive.

https://www.amazon.com/Optimum-Nutrition-Platinum-Hydrowhey-Hydrolyzed/dp/B002QZN8JW/ref=sr_1_10_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1489543576&sr=8-10&keywords=optimum%2Bnutrition&th=1

I live in Canada and bought a sturdy, free-standing pull up bar/cage for $180 from Amazon. If you're in the U.S. I bet you could find something similar for $100. In fact, when I search Amazon.com this is exactly what I found:

https://www.amazon.com/Barbell-Power-Rack-Exercise-Stand/dp/B00HYQP72O/ref=sr_1_27?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1476477892&sr=1-27&keywords=chin+up+bar

I would never use those door frame chin up bars as they destroy the door molding and don't seem to be quite wide enough for wide pull ups.

If you want to use bands (which are good if you don't have much room for weights), I recommend these: Bodylastics full kit

This includes a door anchor, so you can work on pull ups without a pull-up bar. In the videos you'll see one person typically modify the pull-ups with a band, so this is helpful to get the form and some of the strength if you're unable to do pull-ups right off the bat.

Other than that, I'd suggest a good Yoga mat, and a Yoga block can help you get the moves down.

Good luck!

definitely p90x if you have the time. if you're pressed for time or can't commit to an hour and 15 minutes (abs!) every day, then p90x3 is a great second best. As for bands, i have tried several types, and the one i got from beachbody (when ordering p90x3) is by far the best band i have used. (good tension to length ratio). Make sure you get a door anchor for doing bands instead of pullups- and not the door anchor beachbody sends you. use the kind that goes over the top of the door like the one that comes with this: https://www.amazon.com/Black-Mountain-Products-Resistance-45-50-Pound/dp/B00DCX31OY/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1467647140&sr=8-15&keywords=door+band+anchor

I found these bars on Amazon that might be a good replacement:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MPR5PA6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=86UO1YBF72LJ&coliid=I11ICPUIKXL3SU&psc=1

I haven't tried them yet, but the macronutrients and calories are comparable to the P90X Peak Performance bars.

Do you have the capability of ripping the DVDs to video files? I did that and they take up 7 GB of hard drive space. Can you really not spare 7 gigs? Or maybe you're on a Chromebook or something. Either way, you can pick up a cheap USB thumb drive that will hold them. You can also play with the video quality during the rip to lower the overall file size. That should cover the videos themselves.

And get a set of bands, as others suggested. This is the set I take on the road. It's inexpensive and versatile.

I use this one:

• http://www.amazon.com/ProSource-Multi-Grip-Chin-Up-Pull-Up-Doorway/dp/B002YQUP7Q?ie=UTF8&keywords=pull%20up%20bar&qid=1462745396&ref_=sr_1_4&s=exercise-and-fitness&sr=1-4

Only $30.00

You'll get really good usage of it, so tha'ts a bargain.

The problem with using a chair is that the amount of help your legs offer varies. The natural inclination is to get more lift from your legs as you arms get more tired.

If you use a pull up assist band , you can set the length, which fixes the amount of lift, and then struggle to get your numbers up. As you get stronger, you lengthen the band, the assist is less, and you get stronger still.

I bought this one for $30 from sports authority about a year ago

Dont know why the price went up to $50.

It took me a good part of a year to be able to do pullups without this http://www.amazon.com/P90X-Chin-up-Max-Pull-up-Assist/dp/B005DA64QG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461074059&sr=8-1&keywords=pullup+assist I tried with a chair, but I feel like I made progress faster using the pullup assist bands. Don't get discouraged, it just takes time.

I bought a folding pull up bar from Amazon, which works well enough as long as it is placed on a non-slip surface.

http://www.amazon.com/All---one-Stand-Alone-Pull/dp/B001KUURTS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457987164&sr=8-1&keywords=pull+up+bar+folding

It might look flimsy but it is made of lightweight and extremely strong aluminum.

I switched to this unit because it could accommodate bench and squat presses:

http://www.amazon.com/Barbell-Power-Rack-Exercise-Stand/dp/B00HYQP72O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457987226&sr=8-1&keywords=cap+exercise+stand

It is not portable, of course, but I have a permanent gym downstairs and it saves on space.

some people are happy with this also:

power tower, amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Pure-Protein-Chocolate-Peanut-Butter/dp/B00X3NXZYO/ref=sr_1_8_s_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458829085&sr=1-8&keywords=pure+protein+bar

bam! Pure Protein bars are legit. low cost, low sugar, 20 g protein. love it.

You want dumbbells, push up bars, and a pull up bar (and a nice chair for dips and other exercises). If you cannot use a pull up bar the alternative would be either to get an independent pull up station or go with resistance bands. I chose to go with resistance bands because I am on the go a lot. This is the set of bands I have. In my opinion they are cheaper than comparable weights, and you can use them as an alternative to pull up bars.

I use resistance bands. Not perfect but it works. I have the Black Mountain Products Ultimate Resistance Band Set. They cost about $48 (Prime price), have a lifetime warranty, and go up to between 136-162lbs when combined altogether. Plus you can buy the atomic band (70-75 lbs) for $20 if those previous bands are not enough.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HBUNAO?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00

This isn't a turks link I'm not trying to sell to you. This is the bar I use. 20 bucks, completely collapsable with the turn of a few screws and easy to assemble. Remember if you go with the bar that using a chair to support yourself through the moves is a good way to get adjusted to it, and if it's in a door frame and you're tall you'll need to bend your legs :D

If this doesn't work bands are an awesome starting point. Good luck!

I have a similar quandary and was considering this freestanding equipment. One user asked about the height and another user said they think it would need about 90 inches of clearance to use, which is less than your 8.5'. Haven't tried it myself yet, though.

Get one of these and use it with your bands.

It works by draping the foam cylinder over the backside of the door, and situating the nylon on the top (or side) of the door. By shutting the door, it creates an anchor point. You simply pass your band through the loop on the other end, and you have an anchor without sacrificing symmetry on the ends of your band.

You're gonna need a pull up bar.

And a yoga mat would help but isn't necessary by any means.

My wife uses this instead of shakeology. If you compare with shakeology it actually has more nutrients.

My wife says it tastes better as well. I've never personally had either.

It all depends on what you can afford and how stable your living situation is, tbh. Having dumbbells in increments (as someone already mentioned) is best but that does come with a cost and does take up space.

Personally I think that while dumbbells can build more muscles potentially, resistance bands allow for a greater variety of exercises and are cheaper for what you get. It is important thought that you do not skimp on the bands. If you buy cheaper ones or low resistance ones you will find that bands to be lacking (you won't feel the burn or fatigue). Also do not buy bands that you cannot combine together to increase resistance. The bands I use (will be doing P90x starting in a couple weeks for my first time) are Black Mountain Products Ultimate Resistance Band Set. They run about $50 but allow for resistance up to 136-162 lbs. You are not going to find incremental weights from 5lbs-150lbs from dumbbells for this price.

You will also need some sort of exercise mat and a door pull up bar (I cannot recommend one because I do not have one yet).

I bought these Bodylastics bands and they work great. Looks like it comes with a pull-up door attachment like /u/mooseinakilt linked below too.

http://www.amazon.com/P90X-Chin-up-Max-Pull-up-Assist/dp/B005DA64QG/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1428667451&sr=1-2&keywords=pull+up+assist

The product video (at the top left of the page) at roughly 1:09 minutes in. Could be that clip you were talking about, since it seems that is a requirement when using their specific chin up bar. All I know is that the one in the house doesn't have that; though it did feel sturdy without it.

Be careful with buying cheap bands. I've had two sets break on me in the middle of workouts, and it was not pleasant.

I bought the TNT triple bands and they work unbelievably well. The best part is that you can add or remove the bands during the workout, and it doesn't even take that much time.

He mentioned a way to work the muscles, get a door attachment at Sports Authority or Dick's Sporting Goods (they have better ones than the one linked and they're about the same price). Buy some resistance bands which are also cheap and you have a solution that works.

Must make sure you put an isometric hold at the end of every pull down to feel the full effect.

I haven't used any of those brands, so I can't give you any feedback about them in particular, however, I use the Wacces brand (it's a link to the US site, but I'm sure the Canadian site will have something similar) in 8, 10, and 12 pounds with no complaints. I've even used them as slam balls with little to no damage. Their sizes vary with weight.

In my opinion, no, the sizes don't matter.

http://www.amazon.com/Bodylastics-Resistance-Stackable-anti-snap-components/dp/B006O09M4K/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1423055897&sr=8-9&keywords=resistance+bands

I bought a variety of these Bodylastics bands a while back and I love them. It is kind of a pain to switch, but I imagine if you're willing to fork over another 12 bucks to get an extra set of handles, you'd avoid switching too often, i.e. between curls and triceps extension, etc.

Yeah, I can see where it would be an annoyance then.

However, you wouldn't have to buy an entire second set to avoid that switch, or at least you shouldn't have to.

This is $12, and if you had something similar to the set I linked before, you could combine two bands to equal another (ex. 1 purple band is roughly equal to 1 black + 1 green), and with a second set of handles, you wouldn't have to switch.

And honestly, if you're already using the bands to do the modified pull-ups, it's worth it to buy a second (or even a third) set of band handles rather than one pair of dumbells, unless you can find these for less than $12. Hex dumbells go for like $1 a pound, so if you wanted 20lb dumbells, you're already at $40.

I used THESE, any similar mat will work. It is 24 sqft but you might want to get 2 packs. Any similar thick foam interlocking mat should work though!

Today is my second day with Shakeology and so far I like it. I actually like it blended with some ice cubes, 1/2 c. milk, and 1 c. water. I must be the weird one that prefers it fairly plain, because I thought it was really rich. I think the addition of the ice really fluffs it up.

I also have had GI problems, and if this is a good answer, I'll be excited. As an aside, I had a lot of luck with using a product called Natural Calm, which is basically a magnesium supplement that is intended to help your GI tract. If I remember correctly, it basically worked the first day. I found the powder to be too sweet, so I mixed it with a TON of water, but I also think things like Gatorade are too sweet, so maybe it is just my preference.

Here's the link to the product, there may be other flavors available. http://www.amazon.com/Natural-Vitality-Calm-Raspberry-Lemon/dp/B00BPUY3W0/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1423493391&sr=1-1&keywords=natural+calm

This is important advice. If you just got one or two bands, that might be your problem. Especially if you got them in a weight that isn't sufficient. Tony says you can step on the band in a different spot to increase the tension, but for most sets, that only goes so far before you reach maximum band tension, either before the rope inside is stretched to its maximum, or you risk snapping the band into your face.

As I said in another comment, I bought these a while back, and I love them. Easy to switch the handles to different bands/combine bands to add weight, and easy to store (they come with a bag).

You also want to make sure the band's tension is the same throughout the lift. If you are curling up and you don't get any tension until the top of your lift, then you're not using the band effectively. You need to make sure you start to feel tension right away when you start the lift.

I use this one. It has an attachment that you close the door on and it works fantastic. As long as your door can latch close, loose hinges won't be a problem.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/7245456313/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_I1jRub1E5FYMQ

Are you hurt, or are you injured? ... Hurt means you can still play, and injured means you can't.

Either way, try to do the yoga. It's very low-intensity, and the stretching will help increase blood flow, which is what you want right now. I also strongly suggest a foam roller. I would get on YouTube (or better yet, see a PT and get professional advice!) and try to target the areas that are bothering you.

I recently got Inov-8 Bare-XF 260 Shoes and love them so far. The Velcro make them fast and they give enough support in all the routines.

also heard this one is good and its a 12 week program i think http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058ORI9E/ref=s9_simh_gw_p200_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-5&pf_rd_r=1MQTYGY39HH6DZSTPR6J&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200302&pf_rd_i=507846

I started with the UP band, and found it a little...schticky (if that's a word). It was nice when I wasn't working out, I could get some motivation syncing up and seeing my step count go up. But, when I committed to the P90X/3 program, I needed something with a little more umph. I switched over to the Polar FT7.

This thing is awesome. I can watch my heart rate in real time and push myself if I'm dogging it or slow down if I'm reaching max heart rate. Being able to see real time calories burned along with daily & weekly totals is great too.