Balancing Multiple Workout Programs

Recently, several of the people I support through Team Beachbody Coaching asked me about modifying their workout programs to suit their various needs. This got me thinking about why and when changes should happen. Let’s quickly review out two examples…

Lee

Lee started P90X on Monday. He is also committed to Tae Kwon Do, a leg and cardio intensive workout. As a result, he’s experiencing some strain on his legs. By the time P90X Leg & Back day came around, he realized he couldn’t do the P90X work out, so instead decided to do Stretch X instead.

Tim

Tim also started P90X on Monday. He is also committed to Barre Yoga, TRX, and running (and when it warms up, cycling). Tim will have to balance the P90X workouts so he doesn’t overstrain muscle groups. For example:

  • barre yoga, running, and yoga X probably shouldn’t be done consecutively
  • TRX, and any upper body resistance workouts probably shouldn’t be done on the same day

We all know the human body is an amazing machine. It can be exercise out, stretched, flexed, and developed. Or, if left alone, it will respond by becoming sluggish and unhealthy. At the same time, over-training will have negative results on muscles, tendons, connective tissues, and worse, stress the bones.

pullup

Balance is Key

In all things, balance is key. With fitness, committing to P90X – or any significant workout regimen – is a significant decision that impacts the body in different ways. There is wisdom in many articles and “expert opinions” I have read that offer suggestions about how to structure workouts so that the body isn’t overtaxed. For example:

  • One balanced regimen alternates cardio with resistance (weights) across the days of the week. So, Monday – Resistance. Tuesday – Cardio. Wednesday – Resistance, etc. The muscle group for each resistance day changes.
  • Another regimens balance uses the best of both worlds in a 60 or so minute cycle; 20-30 minutes of cardio at the start of each workout, 20-30 minutes of resistance exercises, and 10-20 minutes of cardio to finish up. As with the first regimen, the muscle group for each workout changes daily.
  • A third option blends regimens (and other various outdoor activities). For instance, both Lee and Tim’s plans. Or, when the warmer weather comes, adding cycling, running, kayaking, hiking, or other outdoor activities into the routine will mean balancing out which pieces of the existing regimen stay in place. No one can do them all!

Veggies2

There are many options out there, so no matter what you do, remember, balance is key! Always consult your doctor or a professional if you are unsure, and STOP if you body tells you to. Going slowly and carefully in the first few weeks is better than trying to do everything – you’ll only risk hurting yourself.

PS – Let’s not forget how important proper nutrition is for any serious workout regimen!.