Weider understands that an effective home workout should engage the core, build muscle tone and definition, as well as attack the biceps, forearms and lats. To accomplish these goals, Weider has designed the X-factor Plus Home Gym.

This machine is perfect for getting a proper upper and lower body workout and a good combination cardio/weight workout, without taking too much floor space.

The X-factor Plus Home Gym provides 210 lbs. of dynamic resistance, with every move increasing the resistance through exponential stretch, so vital to a good strength building workout.

The included cables come in 25 lb, 35 lb, and 45 lb strengths, work smoothly and can be mixed and matched to suit the desired workout resistance level.

The machine includes a fold-away vertical knee raise (VKR) station that allows body builders and casual fitness enthusiasts to build more muscle. The 2 high pulleys and 2 low pulleys allow for a more intense, well-rounded workout.

The multi-grip pull-up bar is another beneficial feature as it assists with building biceps, forearms and lats. You can develop lean leg muscles using the ankle strap.

Expect to enjoy your workout in comfort thanks to the padded arm supports and the ergonomic design that gives a more natural movement as well as additional support.

The gym comes with an exercise chart to help users achieve maximum results and an easy-to-understand instruction manual that allows for a quick setup of the machine (average 2 hours). The manual clearly illustrates and numbers the parts in each instruction making it easy to assemble. It also comes with all the necessary tools.

One minor criticism, if you are of average height, is that the arms for the dips are quite far apart. On the other hand, if you are tall with wide shoulders, the dip stations in commercial gyms are probably too close and the arms for dips on the X Factor Plus may be just right for you.

Designed to specifically target abs with the Vertical Knee Raise (VKR) Station, and strengthen arms and core with the dip station, the Weider X-factor Plus Home Gym is recommended for anyone serious about building strength and increasing overall muscle definition, with an efficient full body workout.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• See the Weider X-factor Plus Home Gym on Amazon
• Compare to other Weider Home Gyms
• Read more Weider Home Gym reviews

The Bowflex SelectTech series features technology that is helping revolutionize exercise equipment.  The weight adjustment selection dials effectively replace up to 17 pairs of individual dumbbells while providing the same functionality, allowing you to work smarter, not harder.

Let’s take a look at how the technology works and assess the advantages and disadvantages of the SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells.

Purchasing a full set of dumbbells can be prohibitively expensive and consume a substantial amount of space in your workout room.  A complete set requires a large rack and can lead to additional costs to store the equipment. Even in professional gyms, space can be difficult to allocate. Compact, space saving equipment allows gyms to offer more workout options to their members.

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells take up no more space than a traditional 90 lb dumbbell and can be adjusted from 10-90 lbs in 5 lb increments, all very easily and efficiently. Purchasing an entire set of dumbbells with this weight range could cost upwards of $1000, when including a stand. The Bowflex SelectTechs, with all their advantages, are available at less than a third of that cost.

The weight adjustment mechanism is quite simple.  After placing a dumbbell on the included stand, simply turn a dial to select the desired weight. The handle will attach itself to each increasing weight plate as the dial is turned. This simple function makes it possible to very quickly adjust resistance and save time during a workout.

These dumbbells are designed for total body results, with the wider weight range accommodating heavy exercises such as shrugs and lunges, as well as lighter exercises such as curls and raises. The durable molding around each metal plate provides a quieter workout with a smooth lift-off and no more clanging metal plates!

A minor criticism of the new 1090s is that the grips are slightly different than previous models. Where earlier versions had a nice rubber handle for a secure grip, Bowflex has opted for a chrome metal finish on this model, which can become slippery from sweat during a hard workout. This can be alleviated with tape, but we would have preferred rubber handles.

A second issue is that the mechanism of adjustment may occassionaly jam if the weight is not seated in the stand correctly. This can be fixed by releasing all of the weights and starting over.

A special free bonus workout DVD  “Secrets of the 4 Step Rep” with over 30 exercises and over 80 variations is included and the system comes with a 30 day money back guarantee.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Compare to the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells
• See pricing for both models on Amazon

The P90X2 workout is the result of two years of research and development conducted by a team of the most qualified experts in fitness. P90X2 takes the original Muscle Confusion concept to new heights with Post-Activation Potentiation (PAP), a training technique developed by professional sports trainers to deliver world-class results.

How is P90X2 different from P90X?

P90X2 is the next wave in applied science for body transformation. Like P90X, it’s a complete 90-day program but with all-new, cutting-edge workouts grounded in the most modern thinking in sports science. It takes the principles and foundation of the P90X concept and cranks up the intensity with exercises that demand every ounce of your balance, agility, core strength, and athleticism. P90X2 is also available on Blu-ray with free lifetime disc replacement.

What is Post-Activation Potentiation (PAP)?

Postactivation potentiation has gained popularity in the strength training community recently for its approach to optimizing muscle force and power production above and beyond performance achieved through traditional training methods.  The PAP phenomenon can maximize performance of explosive-based activities such as weightlifting, sprinting, jumping and throwing activities. P90X2 incorporates this phenomenon into a systematic, well-produced DVD workout system for the home.

P90X2 is Available in Three Versions

P90X2 Base

• 12 workouts on 13 DVDs or 4 Blu-ray
• Fitness Guide
• Nutrition Guide
• 90-day Workout Calendar

P90X2 Deluxe

• Includes everything in P90X2 Base, plus:
• 2 bonus P90X2 workouts
• 1 Foam Roller
• 1 55cm PREMIUM Stability Ball
• 2 8-lb. Medicine Balls

P90X2 Ultimate

• Includes everything in P90X2 Base, plus:
• 2 bonus P90X2 workouts
• 1 RumbleRoller
• 1 55cm PREMIUM Stability Ball
• 2 8-lb. Medicine Balls
• Tony Horton’s PowerStands

P90X2 is AVAILABLE NOW

After two years of research and development by leading fitness experts, this meticulously designed 90-day program is comprised of three phases, each focusing on a different aspect of your fitness: Foundation, Strength, and Performance.

At the heart of the P90X franchise is the idea and science of muscle confusion. Why is confusing the muscles so important? With most workout programs you see results almost every day — for the first few weeks. By the 3rd or 4th week, results may plateau or come to a complete halt. That’s where muscle confusion comes in. As you vary your routine, either in intensity, duration, or reps, the results return, usually more dramatically.

Ideal for P90X grads, the program is designed for maximum intensity with workouts so demanding, they’re limited to 5 days per week. P90X2 is difficult but efficient training that allows you to “earn” 2 full days off.

P90X2, the next wave in applied science for body transformation, is available in three versions: Base Kit, Deluxe Kit and Ultimate Kit.

P90X2 Base Kit Workouts

• X2 Core. Works your core using instability. Master this routine for overall improved movement.
• Plyocide. Explosive movements combined with mind and coordination drills for super speed/endurance.
• X2 Recovery + Mobility. Realign your body with a foam-rolling technique and complete stretching routine.
• X2 Total Body. Push your body to use the correct muscles and proper form to handle resistance and instability challenges.
• X2 Yoga. Increase your isometric power and range of motion, and build stabilizer muscle strength.
• X2 Balance + Power. Push your limits through strength and explosive movements while improving alignment.
• Chest + Back + Balance. Achieve superior strength gains over those achieved through traditional weight training by working on unstable platforms.
• X2 Shoulders + Arms. Keep your shoulders and arms strong and in balance to help minimize your risk of injury.
• Base + Back. Give your two largest muscle groups a super workover with a pull-up and plyo extravaganza.
• P.A.P. Lower. Give your lower body a cutting-edge workout with four-round complexes that boost performance.
• P.A.P. Upper. Regain your youth with Post-Activation Potentiation training for your upper body.
• X2 Ab Ripper. Upgrade your concept of what an ab workout should be with a series of demanding core movements.

The Deluxe Kit includes everything in the base kit plus: V Sculp (an amazing pump while blasting your back and biceps) and X2 Chest, Shoulders and Triceps, 2 medicine balls, 1 stability ball and 1 high quality foam roller.

The Ultimate Kit comes with everything in the base and deluxe kits plus 2 P90X Power Stands.

As always, Beachbody has developed and included a bunch of great extras:

• Fitness Guide. Get all the facts and tools you need to maximize your P90X2 results.
• Nutrition Guide. The diet has evolved along with the exercise program. Now in addition to traditional high-performance food choices, you can customize your plan with grain-free and vegan options.
• How to Bring It Again Video. Get a quick overview of the complete P90X2 training system.
• 90-Day Workout Calendar. Set P90X2 workout goals each day, and schedule your recovery week when you need it.
• Online Support. You’ll have access to Tony Horton and a panel of Beachbody experts as well as peer support from other people doing P90X2.
• 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee

FREE SHIPPING AND HANDLING during the Pre-Order period.

P90X2 Pre-Orders Available NOW

• P90X2 Base Kit
• P90X2 Deluxe Kit
• P90X2 Ultimate Kit

With a maximum user weight of 400 pounds, this is a rock-solid, durable elliptical that can withstand heavy daily use. The CE 8.0LC is expensive relative to other home elliptical trainers but available at about half the price of high-end models found in commercial gyms.

Modern features to maximize the workout experience and improve results include a backlit LCD adjustable display with innovative touch panel technology and an MP3 connection with powerful SmoothSound integrated high-clarity speakers.

The adjustable LCD monitor is easy to read from any angle, no matter your height. Display readouts include time, speed, RPM, distance, watt, calories, pulse, resistance level, sex, age, height, weight & target heart rate.

The 21 preset exercise options include 1 manual program, 12 preset programs, 4 heart rate programs, 1 watt control program, 1 personal program, 1 random program and 1 pulse recovery program.

Usually optional for an additional cost, the CE 8.0LC comes with a free wireless heart rate monitor valued at over $50. Set your preferred heart rate, strap on the chest monitor and the resistance of your routines will automatically be adjusted as your heart rate changes.

This durable and feature-rich elliptical is also designed for comfort with oversized, cushioned pedals that allow foot position adjustment during a workout. Other convenient features include tilt and go transport wheels for easy movement, an integrated reading rack and water bottle holder.

The CE 8.0LC weighs 304 pounds and assembly is an involved process but the instructions are easy to follow. Free Curbside Delivery is standard when purchased directly from the manufacturer. In-home delivery and assembly are available for an additional fee.

Smooth Fitness is known for reliable home exercise machines with among the best warranties in the industry. The CE 8.0 includes a lifetime warranty on the frame and braking system, 10 years on parts and 2 years in-home labor.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Learn more and purchase the CE 8.0 LC at Smoothfitness.com
• See the Smooth Fitness CE 8.0LC on Amazon
• Compare to lower priced Elliptical Trainers
• Read more Obsession Fitness Elliptical Trainer Reviews

Signed Presidential Active Lifestyle Award certificates will be delivered to fitness enthusiasts who do one of the following between July 15, 2011 and August 17th:

• Purchase a DVD fitness program through Team Beachbody
• Order Shakeology® through Team Beachbody
• Become a Team Beachbody Coach

All new Coaches and customers will receive a Presidential Active Lifestyle Award issued by the Presidential Council.

You don’t have to be a fitness expert to be a Coach, just a desire to help others become fit and lead a healthy lifestyle.

• Read more about the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award

Update 8/24/11: It’s official. P90X2 will be available for pre-orders on September 1, only through TeamBeachbody.com. The first pre-orders will arrive by December 25, 2011 and all will include Free Shipping. Credit cards will be used for pre-orders, but will not be charged until the item ships.
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Update 8/16/11: CEO Carl Daikeler announced today that concerns over inventory availability to meet high demand and the complexity of the P90X2 package have delayed pre-orders until late September. We admire a company that provides honest updates to their customers and coaches.
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Speculation about a sequel to P90X, the best-selling workout from Beachbody and Tony Horton, has been rampant for well over a year. Finally, details about P90X2 were announced last week at the annual Team Beachbody Coach Summit held in downtown Los Angeles.

• Originally called P90X: MC2 (Power 90 eXtreme: Muscle Confusion 2), the sequel is now officially titled P90X2. P90X2 will be released in Fall 2011.

The P90X2 workouts are designed for maximum intensity and efficiency. The all new 90-day program features progressive routines so intense, the number of training days will be reduced to 5 per week, to allow adequate time for recovery. With P90X2, less is more. You’ll need (and earn) your rest.

The principle concept behind P90X and P90X2 is “Muscle confusion” — constantly varying workout routines to confuse your muscles and never allow your fitness progression to plateau. The intense movements, sets, supersets, and complexes in P90X2 will baffle your muscles more than ever. “It’s gonna blow your mind, that’s for sure,” Tony Horton said at the Coach Summit.

P90X2 will include 14 workouts in 3 phases: Foundation, Strength and Performance. You’ll begin by improving your Foundation, addressing fitness instability. Then you’ll build Strength and, finally, power, which all translates to improved Performance.

Beachbody enlisted the services of Dr. Marcus Elliot, a renowned sports trainer, to infuse groundbreaking training techniques into P90X2 that had previously only been available to world-class athletes.

P90X2 will include a new and improved nutrition guide that incorporates the Shakeology ultra-premium nutritional shake.

P90X2 will utilize optional new equipment but each workout will include a modifier so there’s a version for everyone. Surprisingly, P90X2 will include no purely cardiovascular routines.

• P90X Pre-Orders Available NOW
• P90X2 Sneak Peek Video

The “hardest workout ever put on DVD” was not enough. Released yesterday, Shaun T.’s INSANITY: The Asylum takes the madness to a new level.

The all new 30-day DVD workout program consists of a brutal series of routines designed to break through plateaus, build strength and reduce body fat by guiding you to extremes you never thought possible.

Unlike the original INSANITY which required no equipment, The Asylum incorporates a jump rope and agility ladder (included). Instead of the original 60 day program length, this one is a 30 day butt kicking.

INSANITY: The Asylum incorporates speed, agility, plyometric, core, strength and balance exercises with a series of progressions that build on each move. As with the original INSANITY, The Asylum uses MAX Interval training in a sports specific application.

If 30 days isn’t enough, this program includes Hybrid Calendars (Asylum/Insanity), (Asylum/P90X) that let you take on a fresh new challenge every month.

INSANITY: The Asylum consists of seven workouts (under 60 minutes each):

• Speed & Agility
• Vertical Plyo
• Relief
• Strength
• Game Day
• Overtime
• Back to Core

Also included:

• Athletic Assessment
• 30 Day Hybrid Calendars
• Agility Ladder
• Speed Rope
• Playbook Training Guide
• 14 Day Get Shredded Nutrition Guide

INSANITY: The Asylum is not for beginners! It’s ideal for graduates of the INSANITY, P90X, or TurboFire.

AVAILABLE NOW (From Team Beachbody – BEST Price)
(FREE Team Beachbody account includes access to online workout tools and community support)

• INSANITY: THE ASYLUM Base Kit
• INSANITY: THE ASYLUM Deluxe Kit
• Read our review of the original INSANITY
  

If you’re looking for a strenuous cardiovascular workout, this product is not for you. It’s intended for light exercise or physical therapy and injury rehab. The ActivCycle is often recommended for people with Multiple Sclerosis or other disabilities.

The ActivCycle works your leg muscles while seated in front of a computer, watching TV, or just relaxing in a chair. It also can be placed on a desk or table and used for arm and shoulder workouts.

The motor driven feature makes this bike unique. The motorized cycle has adjustable speeds and an overload protection feature. It can also be used without the motor for greater resistance.

The multi-function LCD console displays speed, distance, time and calories burned. The comfortable pedals include an adjustable foot strap.

The ActivCycle ships fully assembled and ready to use and comes with a non-skid floor mat. The cycle includes built in carry handles for easy transport or relocation. It measures 16“ x 16“ x 13” and weighs 12.5 pounds.

More Info & Price Comparisons

• Paradigm 7101 ACTIVcycle Motorized Exercise Cycle
• Compare to other Motorized Exercise Bikes on Amazon

The Schwinn 240 is an uncommonly quiet recumbent bike with a compact design, smooth, comfortable ride and a perimeter weighted flywheel simulating the feel of a more traditional outdoor bike.

Features include a 20-pound flywheel, 16 resistance levels, 17 programs, adjustable seat, and both telemetry and contact heart rate monitoring. Schwinn Advantage workout tracking lets you easily set fitness goals and measure your progress right on the console.

This is a sturdy, well-built piece of equipment that’s not easy to move from room to room — choose your workout spot before unpacking and assembling. Assembly will take about two hours.

Another minor criticism is that the written instructions are not very detailed and programming the various functions may require some guess work.

A recumbent bike of this quality is a good investment for those with with back problems and other conditions that require comfort  and a padded ergonomic seat with lumbar support.

Schwinn 240 Recumbent Exercise Bike Product Features

• Recumbent home exercise bike with 16 resistance levels and 20-pound flywheel
• 17 workout programs, including 8 course profiles, target heart rate, 2 user profiles with custom workouts
• Telemetry-enabled, integrated grip heart rate system for easy fitness monitoring
• 300-pound maximum user weight; 5-year warranty on frame, 1 year on parts and electronics
• BioFit Comfort Seating system with padded ergonomic seat and dual-position lumbar support
• Perimeter weighted flywheel for a true road feel, and smooth, consistent workouts
• Oversized stabilizers and levelers that are built-in for a solid workout platform
• Eddy Current Brake (ECB) resistance system
• Adjustable handlebars and console
• Backlit, multi-color console for easy viewing
• Water bottle holder and reading rack
• Maximum user weight: 300 pounds

More Info & Price Comparisons

• The Schwinn 240 Recumbent Exercise Bike on Amazon
• Compare to other bestselling Recumbent Bikes
• Purchase from the Schwinn/Bowflex website