Chalean Extreme vs P90X
 The Chalean Extreme workout retails for $119.95. |
 The P90X workout retails for $119.95. |
The basic kit (not the deluxe kit) comes included with the following:Burn Basics and Band Basics. This is an instructional DVD that guides you through the basics of how to lift the weight or use the bands. Burn Circuit. The Burn Circuit has three workouts. Circuit 1, 2 and 3. Typically you will perform each circuit once each week, for a total of 4 weeks, if you are following the program guide. Push Circuit. The Push Circuit also has three workouts. Circuit 1, 2,and 3. Again, performing each one, once a week, for a total of 4 weeks. Lean Circuit. Just like the first two circuits, three circuits, performing each one, once per week for 4 weeks. Burn Intervals. Burn Intervals is a weight/cardio workout, performed during each week of the program. Burn It Off. Also a cardio workout but with no weights. Shorter, and somewhat easier than the Burn Intervals. Performed each week during the program. Recharge. Recharge is a stretch/yoga routine, performed each week of the program. Performed each week during the program. Two Ab workouts. Extreme Abs and Ab Burner. Bodyfat calipers and guide to measure your badyfat throughout the program. A thigh toner band, used throughout the program for additional resistance during the circuits and the cardio routines. A Motivational audio CD and a “Healthy Eats” and Kitchen Makeover DVD. Also included with Chalean Extreme is a Fitness and Nutritional guidebook. |
The basic kit (not including P90X+) comes included with the following:“How to Bring It” DVD. This DVD is a short instructional/introduction to the P90X workout. Explaining briefly the program, what is needed, and what to expect. Chest & Back. This DVD, depending on which rotation you follow, will depend on when you perform. In the most popular rotation the “Classic”. You workout with this DVD in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd week, and then again in the 9th and 11th week. Plyometrics. An extreme cardio routine, “jump training”. This workout is done every week, except on “recovery weeks”. Make no mistake, the recovery week, is not a time where you sit on the couch and eat potato chips. it’s a tough week in it’s own right, Just different than the typical weeks where you lift weights. Shoulders & Arms. This DVD goes right along with the Chest & Back, and used during the same weeks. Yoga X. This is a Yoga/Stretch DVD. This workout is done every week, and on the recovery weeks, it’s often done twice per week. Legs & Back. This DVD is used in every week of P90X, with the exception of the recovery weeks. Kenpo X. Kenpo X is a cardio kickboxing type routine. This cardio routine is used in every week of P90X. X-Stretch. A stretch routine which is performed every week in P90X. It’s not a requirement, and is done on your 7th day, if you choose to use it. Core Synergistics. A total body workout. Used with lighter weights, and is mixed with cardio moves as well. Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps. This workout is used in the Classic rotation on the 5th, 6th, and 7th week, and then again in the 10th and 12th week. Back & Biceps. This workout program is used in the same weeks as Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps. Ab Ripper X. This ab routine is brutal, and is used in every week of P90X, with the exception of the recovery weeks. It is usually performed on the same days as the resistance/weight workouts, or 3 times per week. Cardio X. This DVD is not used in the Classic rotation, however, it does have its place in the other rotations. It can also be a substitute for Plyometrics if you are not “ready” for Plyo yet. Also included with P90X is a Fitness and Nutritional guidebook. |
Equipment needed for Chalean Extreme:Resistance bands or dumbbells. The program demonstrates the use of both, and you can get a great workout using either. It’s personal preference which you decide on. I personally enjoy both, and use the bands when traveling, and weights while at home. If you are looking for a alternative to dumbbells, and want an “all in one” dumbbell setup, you might consider PowerBlocks as an option. |
Equipment needed for P90X:Resistance bands or dumbbells. The program demonstrates the use of both, and you can get a great workout using either. It’s personal preference which you decide on. I personally enjoy both, and use the bands when traveling, and weights while at home. If you are looking for a alternative to dumbbells, and want an “all in one” dumbbell setup, you might consider PowerBlocks as an option. A chin up bar, or a place to do pull ups. As an alternative, you can use the resistance bands to simulate pull ups. You only need a door attachment for this option. |
Chalean Extreme vs P90X, Similarities:
- Both programs are led by two of the best fitness trainers at Beachbody, they both motivate and inspire you throughout the program.
- Both programs utilize Muscle Failure and Muscle Confusion. I have linked both of these terms to articles I have written, explaining what this is.
- Both programs offer variety in the program, by changing the workouts to prevent boredom, and again, to promote Muscle Confusion.
- Both programs have a detailed fitness guidebook. An invaluable tool throughout the program.
- Both programs utilize weights/resistance bands and cardio has the basis of each program.
- Each program provides a Nutritional guidebook, which includes recipes and nutritional information to assist you in your nutrition throughout the program. Each guidebook provides details on what to eat and when. Your diet, will change along with the program, for the best results. Let’s face it, your success in either program is going to be a direct result in both the exercise AND diet. Having a detailed guide, like both of these program is a definite benefit!
Chalean Extreme vs P90X, Differences: |
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Chalean Extreme:Shorter workouts. Chalean Extreme lasts about 35 minutes on average, with the longest workout lasting 45 minutes. The ab workouts are 11 minutes and 16 minutes. Well suited for all fitness levels. Chalean Extreme is best suited for those between beginner and advanced fitness levels. It’s only my opinion, but I believe people just starting out can use this program. The program is so well developed, that you can easily use this program as a beginner by using lighter weight on the weights, and taking breaks as needed on cardio and ab routines. As you grow stronger and advance in your personal fitness level, you can add more weight, and take less breaks. Chalean Extreme does not have chin ups. For those people that enjoy chin ups, you will miss this in the Chalean Extreme program. For those that don’t like them, or don’t feel the need for them, you won’t miss them a bit. It’s also one less piece of equipment you will need to complete the program. Chalean Extreme combines muscle groups. Chalean Extreme groups multiple muscle groups, such as a squat exercise for the legs, while doing a bicep curl for the arms. This combination of muscle groups is also one reasons the workouts are shorter. P90X, with the exception of Core Synergistics, works muscle groups separately. For example, while using the Chest & Back DVD, you perform a chest exercise, followed by a back exercise. Both are done individually. Chalean Extreme emphasizes slow controlled exercises. This is one of the great things about Chalean Extreme. From beginners to advanced it’s difficult to not lift weight properly when you are using very slow concentrated movements. |
P90X:Longer workouts. P90X lasts about 60 minutes on average, with the longest workout lasting 92 minutes (Yoga X). The ab workout is about 16 minutes. Best suited for advanced fitness levels. If you are a beginner, and have weight loss as your primary goal, you are better off starting with Chalean Extreme, Power 90, or any other “Getting Started” program. Let me state that this is only my opinion. I have seen beginners start with P90X and achieve excellent results! You can also modify the P90X program and start with it. You can do half of the weight routines, and take breaks on cardio and abs. But having done both programs, P90X is just harder. P90X has chin ups. I love chin ups personally, and missed them terribly during my Chalean Extreme rotation. That doesn’t mean you can’t add them to your Chalean Extreme rotation. However, I am trying to make a comparison on the base program without modifications. For an article I wrote on the benefits of chin ups, check that out here. P90X focuses on one muscle group at a time. With the exception of Core Synergistics, P90X focuses on working one muscle group at a time. For example, while using the Chest & Back DVD, you will perform a chest exercise, followed by a back exercise. Chalean Extreme groups multiple muscle groups. Such as a squat exercise for the legs, while doing a bicep curl for the arms. This combination of muscle groups is also one reason the workouts are shorter. Exercises are combined, whereas P90X works them separately. P90X emphasizes controlled exercises. Each rep and exercise is done with an emphasis on control. Perfect form and when the form starts to diminish, you should stop the exercise. The movement itself is a normal average speed. |
Chalean Extreme vs P90X: Summary
Some of the statements I made in my above review are my personal opinion. I have completed both P90X (several times) and Chalean Extreme (once). I completed Chalean Extreme after P90X. I believe that both programs are solid. Each one has it’s advantages and disadvantages, and it really comes down to personal preference. I would without a doubt say that you will be happy with either. Both are complete in every way from nutrition to exercise, to providing the exercise rotation etc.
Having said that, I personally feel that if you have completed P90X already, and like that level of intensity, then Chalean Extreme will be a step down. If you have not completed P90X, and want a solid program to stay fit and healthy, and don’t necessarily want the extra added intenisty of P90X, I think you will love Chalean Extreme. Taking it another step forwards, if you are wanting to do a round of P90X, then I think Chalean Extreme is the perfect program to get you ready.
When I did my complete round of Chalean Extreme, it was with the goal of staying or maintaining my current level of fitness that I had previously achieved with P90X. After 12 weeks, (with the exception of getting weaker in chin ups), I don’t believe I took a step backward by doing Chalean Extreme. Of course, I can’t do as many chin ups as I once could, but I will quickly get back to speed in no time.
If you have done a round of P90X and would like to maintain your results and not lose the results you have achieved, and are looking for a nice change, I think Chalean Extreme will work nicely for you.
I am basing my reviews on the base programs of each. You can easily modify and make a hybrid routine of either program. For example. I am used to working out 6 days a week from P90X. So when I noticed Chalean was only 5 days, I simply added in an extra cardio day. If I wanted more ab workouts than Chalean Extreme has in the base program, simply add them. These programs are completely customizable to best suit the individual. Likewise, if you want to try P90X, without doing an entry program first, you can. You may start and decide to do the entire program, or you may start and decide to do the best you can on each workout, that may or may not be the entire workout.
I do not regret doing Chalean at all! I had previously completed 8 rounds of P90X and was looking forward to changing up my routine. If I do another round of Chalean, I will likely throw in some chin ups, and be perfectly content.
In my final words about Chalean Extreme vs P90X, I’m going to go out on a limb. I like the intensity of P90X, it’s harder than Chalean (as a base program). I don’t believe someone with weight loss as their primary goal should do P90X as a starter program. However, I believe Chalean Extreme would be an excellent choice for weight loss and a starter program. I also think that Chalean Extreme is a great program for those of you that have completed a starter program. So depending on where you are at in your fitness level, would really determine which to choose, and then of course, your personal preference.
Chalean Extreme has some of the best cardio I have ever done. I love Burn Intervals, Get Lean Intervals and Fat Burn Challenge. Excellent. I thoroughly enjoy these cardio workouts! To get the Get Lean Intervals and Fat Burn Challenge, you will need to get the Deluxe version of Chalean Extreme, or get the regular Chalean and upgrade to the Deluxe DVD later. Either way, you want these extra cardio workouts!
People all over the world, are getting incredible results with both programs! Some are doing them as written in the guides, others are making hybrid routines to satisfy their personal preferences. Either way, I strongly encourage you to pick one of these programs, you can’t go wrong in getting started in a fitness program, and either one of these can take you to your fitness goals. Even Tony Horton (fitness instructor in P90X) will tell you, that variety is the spice of life. So do both, build a fitness library, change it up, spice it up, keep your fitness moving forwards and break through the plateaus of doing the same old cardio and weight routines. I sincerely hope that you have found this review beneficial, as I have spent 3 days working on it off and on, I wanted to be as complete as possible, to help you in your decision. If I missed something you feel is important in the “Similarities or Differences” feel free to send me an email. Good luck on your journey, and I’m here if you need some help along the way! robert@extremely-fit.com
Don’t for get to take a look at my ChaLEAN Extreme Reviews. You may also review my P90X Reviews as well.
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May 30th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
This is exactly what I was looking for, P90X v. ChaLEAN. I think I will begin with ChaLEAN. I have never attempted a workout regime before!
May 31st, 2009 at 8:24 am
Let me know if you need any help along the way. Good luck!
June 3rd, 2009 at 9:21 pm
Thanks so much for reviewing both of these programs. I am on the fence about getting another p90x. I gave it to my dad. Now i wish I had not because I really did like Core Cynergistics, Kenpo, and Plyo routines. I think they would go great with Chalean X. Great comparison. that seems to be what everyone wants to know. I have done p90x almost all routines but did not complete the 90 days more like 60 days. Now that Chalean X is out i really like the lower body emphasis.
June 15th, 2009 at 11:10 pm
Thanks for this review, it’s what I was hoping to find. I just finished 1 round of P90X and was hoping to change it up – perhaps something that has a bit more cardio and a bit shorter. I’ve gotten great results but have a few more % of fat to lose…not much…but hoping that change will help me out. Hearing you were able to maintain your physique is great peace of mind, I’m worried about losing my result! Thanks!
June 16th, 2009 at 6:44 am
Deb, Thanks for visiting and I hope you will come back again. Good luck and let me know if I can help you along the way!
June 16th, 2009 at 6:45 am
Kristina, I think the change will do you good, if you work Chalean Extreme, you will not be disappointed.
Let me know if I can help you with the program etc.
July 2nd, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Thank you for such a great review. This is exactly what I was searching to read. I think I’m going to get the Chalean program. I’m having trouble finding what size dumbbells the program reccommends. Do you have any advice? I have Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred and use 10 lb weights for her video.
July 2nd, 2009 at 4:24 pm
I think you could get by with less, but up to 30 lbs on some of the exercises. It’s going to vary per person. I use PowerBlocks, http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/?af=728794
The PowerBlocks are like BowFlex Selecttechs, but more affordable. It’s still an investment, but they switch out quickly and easily. I’ve had mine for almost 4 years and still it great shape.
July 5th, 2009 at 7:30 am
Thank you for writing such a perfect review. I’m just finishing my first round of P90X, and was looking for something both my wife and I could both do. Since P90X was too much for her ChaLean sounds like it would work. Thanks again for the best comparitive review I’ve seen online.
July 5th, 2009 at 9:44 am
Your welcome, let me know if I can ever help you along the way.
July 7th, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Thanks for this intelligent review. It’s just what I needed. I have P90x (and love it!) but have not been able to stick with it or get through it. While I like the exercises, it’s more the length of time it takes to get through each day and that it is 6 days a week that keeps me from completiting it. Since I like to incorporate group spin classes and some boot camp classes in my weekly workout, I wasn’t able to get through each day of P90X. ChaLEAN offers shorter workouts that would allow me time to add in my own few days of other group cardio that I crave. I am looking to lose about 15 pounds so I definitely need something that I can stick with and have time for! Thanks so much.
July 7th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
Your welcome, and good luck if you decide to try it, we would certainly appreciate you shopping with us! We are also available for questions etc as you go through the program.
October 6th, 2009 at 10:39 am
Robert,
Thank you for this informative review. Im in phase 1 of the lean verison of p90x and I’m using the first 90 days to get in better shape and lose some weight before I try the classic verison. I’ve been doing well and LOVE the intensity of the workouts, im drenched when I’m done! I’ve been adding the plyo workout in so I can gain the strength to perform of the moves. Can’t wait to see where I’m at after my first 90 days and then the classic version!
October 6th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Laura, You are VERY welcome! I’m here for you at anytime to help you meet your fitness goals. Feel free to contact me anytime!
October 19th, 2009 at 4:24 pm
Thanks for this excellent review/comparison! I am a huge fan of Chalene’s Turbo Jam work out program (have been doing it for 3-4 years), but have recently gotten more into strength training (because I notice I always see faster and better results when I do that). I was trying to decide between Chalean Extreme and P90X, but after reading these reviews and comparisons, it seems that I will go with Chalean Extreme. I guess I came into the review site wondering if I would be sacrificing some of the benefits of P90X in order to have my preferred trainer that I am comfortable with. (Don’t we always gravitate toward what is familiar to us?) After reading this, I feel confident that I will get not only get the same great results as P90X, but will get to do it along with my favorite trainer – Chalene Johnson. My husband goes to the gym, so he doesn’t do the DVD type of workouts as much as I do, but I feel that he would really enjoy this and get a lot out of it as well! Only one way to find out though……I am ordering it right now! Thanks!
October 19th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Thanks Megan, I’m glad you liked the review. I think you will enjoy CE! We are also a retailer, and would appreciate you business as well. Good luck and let me know if I can help!
October 21st, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Thanks for all of the great info. Just what I have been searching for!! I have Turbo Jam and love it but was looking for something more challenging with weights and was wondering whether I should go with P90X instead of ChaLean Extreme even though I am huge Chalene fan. I was already leaning towards ChaLean X but wanted to find a good comparison. Thank you so much. I want to get the Deluxe set and will be ordering SOON!!! (Yes, I will come here… back to where I found the best information!!!)
October 26th, 2009 at 11:27 am
Just got notice that my order shipped today. Can’t wait to get started!!
November 2nd, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Looking forward to doing round one of Chalene Extreme. From a woman’s perspective, the chin ups and some of the push ups in P90X are overwhelming. I also find that I am more consistent when my workouts are no longer than 45 minutes in length. I love Tony Horton’s One on One workouts for that reason – Horton variety and intensity w/o the P90X length.
November 2nd, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Let me know what you think of CE. I really enjoyed it, but missed the pullups. If I were to do it again, I would simply add them in. But I understand your perspective too. Another great reason I love BB programs, so much variety.
November 20th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Hey Kerry,
I have the 30 day shred DVD From Jillian Michaels also did you do it for 30 days? Did you get good results?
And Robert–you are a beast!! How were you able to do P90X so many times? That’s incredible! Did you get fantastic results everytime??
November 22nd, 2009 at 9:00 am
Kim, Thank you. P90X keeps me at the top of my game.
January 1st, 2010 at 5:04 pm
Thank you, Thank you!! I keep going back in forth with my thoughts for each workout. I have been so worried about finding the time for P90X, so I keep backing out of it. Now I know that Chalean will be fantastic for me. I have borrowed one of her workouts from a friend and have been wanting more!! Now I gotta have it!
January 1st, 2010 at 6:32 pm
You are very welcome.
Please come visit us again, and if you ever need anything at all, whether it be workouts, advice, or reviews, don’t hesitate to let me know.