P90X is an extreme home workout program that was not designed for someone that is just starting to get in shape but rather those that are already in somewhat decent shape and even those that are in great shape. The P90X program does have a pre-fit test to determine if you are ready for the program or not. Below, in a nutshell are the basics of the fit test so if you can complete this, BeachBody (makers of P90X) gives you the green light to proceed with the program.  

1) Pull-Ups – Males should be able to complete 3, females should be able to complete 1.

Now, here is the thing with pull-ups. I know a few different people that started the program without being able to do one pull-up and they managed to get by. The P90X program offers resistance bands connected to a door attachment as an alternative to pull-ups.

          Rest 1 Minute

2) Push-Ups – Males should be able to complete 15, females should be able to complete 3.

Females can perform them on their knees but they must do 15.

          Rest 4 Minutes

3) Wall Squats – Place back flat against a wall and lower your body into a seated chair position. Your quads and feet should form a 90 degree angle. Do not allow your hands to touch the wall and you are allowed to sink to the floor as long as your butt does not touch it. Both males and females must be able to hold themselves in a chair-like position for 1 full minute.

          Rest 4 Minutes

4) Bicep Curls – Males should use at least 20lbs (each dumbbell) and females 8lbs (each dumbbell) and should perform at least 10 curls.

          Rest 3 Minutes

5) Ab Test (In & Outs) – Get in a seated position (on the floor). Place your hands on the floor at your sides and bend your knees with your feet on the floor. Raise feet off the ground and bring them towards your chest and then extend them out as straight as you can….this is one rep. Both males and females must complete 25 reps.

          Rest 4 Minutes

6) Jumping Jacks – Both males and females must be able to complete 2 minutes of jumping jacks, they say you go as fast as you can for the last 30 seconds.

The actual fit test does require you to take your heart rate throughout the fit test as it’s a great indicator of your overall cardiovascular system. I also left out the toe touch and vertical leap test but there is no minimum requirement to proceed with the program.

If you can complete the test above within the given time frame, you are ready for P90X !

If you are unable to complete the test, click here to read my reviews on some of the other BeachBody fitness programs, pay particular close attention to the Power 90, Slim in 6, and ChaLEAN Extreme home fitness programs…these programs not only require hard work and determination to complete but will also get you ready for P90X.