Insanity: The Ultimate Cardio Workout and Fitness DVD Program Review

by Natalie Belford

INSANITY: 60-Day Total Body Conditioning Workout DVD Program

Retail Price: $169.99

I’m a bit of a nut when it comes to fitness and got Insanity: The Ultimate Cardio Workout and Fitness DVD Program because reviewers described it as brutal. I was intrigued and ordered it and haven’t been sorry. What I found is that Shaun T is a terrific workout coach with unbelievable stamina for workouts that cause others on the video to drop like flies. You’ll need to follow the Elite Nutrition Plan that’s included with the workout or some other diet plan that will refuel your body. These workouts –even the warm-ups – are intense, and your body will need proper nutrition with extreme refueling ability.

The plan comes with an Insanity Calendar that keeps you on track and gives you a place to post results. These workouts are plyometrics, which means a kind of explosive exercise training that’s designed to improve performance in sports and repeatedly stretches and suddenly contracts the muscles and includes fast, powerful moves.

When I started the routine, I was already in what I thought was tip-top shape. The warm-ups are even a butt-kicker for me. This is the kind of intensity I was hoping for in a workout. A word of caution, though: Get in shape before beginning the Insanity program.

There are about 15 people or so exercising with Shaun T in each routine, and I don’t think any of them ever stay with him the entire time. On the product description the Pure Cardio & Abs DVD rightly claims “Nonstop, extreme cardio workout. (40 minutes)”

In the DVDs, Shaun T takes the time to go through each move before the routine begins. During the routines he points out when people are moving properly or improperly so you can be sure to exercise in a way that produces maximum results.

A clock is on the screen during each workout showing you how much longer for a particular exercise and how much longer for the full workout. There’s no way to get bored because the DVDs offer a wide variety of workouts. The DVD package even includes two rest workout DVDs for days when you want less of a challenge – but even those are tough.

You don’t need any equipment for the exercises, and not much space is required. I do recommend, though, keeping a towel on hand, because you will sweat a lot. Definitely wear proper tennis shoes for support. If you have weak wrists or ankles, always wear support. You’ll be very sore after doing these workouts even if you have no particular problem spots.

Realize from the beginning that you should just exercise at your own pace. It’s seems impossible to fully complete the routines, but that’s what’s so great about it. You’ve got a challenge with this DVD set that will push you to your limit and beyond.

Pros:

You get what’s advertised. An insane workout challenge? Yes!
Shaun T is awesome. It’s not just because he’s quite nice to look at – Shaun T is an amazing athlete and a real inspiration during the workouts.

You won’t get bored

Fantastic results. I’m sure I’ve never been in better shape or looked better. I’m much stronger and now have amazing endurance for runs.

Cons:

Not for people who are out of shape. This is an extremely demanding workout. Even the warm-ups are challenging.
One of the DVDs is messed up. In month two, one of the DVDs is messed up; and I’ve called for a replacement.

Get Insanity: The Ultimate Cardio Workout and Fitness DVD Program if you’d like an insanely challenging exercise routine that will push you to the limit. No need to go to the gym. With this routine, you’ll be sweating and sore. Get proper nutrition and enjoy being stronger and fitter than ever.

Click here to get the Insanity: The Ultimate Cardio Workout and Fitness DVD Program from Amazon.com