Start of P90X2 – X2 Core
Coming off of Insanity, where I got to hate working out with that routine (I love Insanity, but it really beats me down after a while), I knew my shoulders needed to be challenged more and have my stabilizers worked at the same time. What better program to focus on that than P90X2.
I originally was going to start on June 3rd, but after a couple of days off of exercise, I knew I could start, feel refreshed, and be ready to do it.
Today was X2 Core. Lets just say this one exposes every weak area I have in my core.
Core Synergistics from P90X was a great core workout but did not work core with instability moves. This one is 95% instability and focusing on strengthening the entire core region.
Some things I loved: The warm-up. One legged sphynx. 1 leg lateral jumps.
Some things I need to work on: Everything!
Seriously, this one really challenges my balance, which I never have had great balance (not bad, just not great). This one is also really going to test how stable I can keep the shoulders on some of these moves. The good news is, nothing really hurt or bothered me. Some things felt tight, but that is what continual stretching is going to have to help.
Speaking of stretching, this is one thing I’m going to have to spend about 10 minutes each morning doing before I engage the shoulders. My goal is to spend 10 minutes prior to each workout just focusing on stretching anterior and posterior regions, then let the X2 warm-up finish stretching them out. My right pect/bicep tendon area is very tight, so hopefully I can get it to loosen up without having to go see a massage therapist.
One other thing to note about X2, in case you are reading my blog and unfamiliar with it: Unlike P90X, where there is a set schedule, this one has phases that are a bit free form. I can spend up to 6 weeks in each phase. As of right now, I’m planning on spending 5 weeks in this phase, and possible 6. I know in phase 2 I will spend 6 weeks, doing 3 with one set of upper body disc, and the next 3 weeks with the other upper body disc (muscle confusion at its best).
Final phase will be 3-4 weeks, and will be tough. I’ve seen those workouts and I’ll get pushed. Hard.
I plan to video log more during this too, so you should see videos with some of these blog post too.
For nutrition, X2 has a paleo-ish plan. It is grain free, but allows for legumes. I’m torn on beans, honestly. I’ve read that if soaked and/or sprouted, they are not that bad (most of the bad stuff gets removed in that process). I may have some every now and then. I plan in phase 1 (only allowing me 1 carb/legume/tuber each day) to split it between Shakeology and either a sweet potato or quinoa. I may allow some baked beans every now and then. This is Fat Shredder 2.0, and going to do my best to follow it decently.
