Many people question whether they should restart their fitness goals with a beginner program like Tony Horton 10 Minute Trainer, an intermediate program like the original Power 90, or an in home boot camp program like Power 90X. Your choice depends on a few factors.

First, have you retained a substantial level of your former fitness level achieved in the gym, or have you let yourself go. If you have lost strength or become overweight, it would be wise to start slow.

Second, how much time are you willing to commit to your fitness goals. Tony Horton 10 Minute Trainer provide the most flexibility for beginners and former fitness buffs who have lost a lot of ground. Designed to be performed in 10 minute intervals, you can do one 10 minute workout per day or as many as you can handle for faster results.

Power 90 was designed for intermediate fitness levels. This program is a great bridge between beginning fitness workouts and advanced workouts. It’s demanding, but not extreme like Power 90X. You’ll get fitter at a steady pace. The Power 90 workouts average 40 minutes in length, demanding a little more of your time.

Power 90X was originally geared for fitness buffs at an intermediate to advanced level. The program includes a fitness test to see if you are personally ready for the demands of Power 90X. Generally, before starting the program you should be able to perform a ten minute warm up of jogging in place, followed by stretching. Then, with one minute rest periods between exercises, you should be able to perform at least one full pull up, one vertical leap, 15 push ups, a seated toe touch, a one minute wall squat, 10 bicep curls with 15 to 25 pound weights, and 25 In & Out abdominal exercises. If you can perform the minimum above, you’re ready to start Power 90X.

Starting any fitness program is more mental than physical. Tony Horton said it himself in my One On One interview with him: “P90X has become a phenomenon. Everybody is doing it. Even folks who probably need Power 90 or some other milder workout program first.” Tony designed all his programs for modification. If you can’t quite met the physical demands of an exercise, simply do a modified version until you’re stronger. Mental toughness to do your best and stay on program are your keys to success.

Best of luck on your fitness goals.