There are hundreds of fitness products that hit store shelves every year and consumers flock to the stores to buy them (or call the toll free numbers to order) so they can begin their fitness journeys. But one question always surfaces...is the product going to work? The Shake Weight and P90X recently became two of the hottest selling fitness products very quickly, but can they maintain their popularity by giving consumers the results they're looking for?
Exploring the Shake Weight
The Shake Weight made its first appearance back in 2009. It's a dumbbell with springs on either side and is meant to be held in one or both hands and shaken back and forth at a fast pace. There is a 2.5 pound weight for females and a 5 pound weight for males. To date, they have sold over 4.5 million units and show no signs of slowing down.
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, Departments of Exercise and Sport Science and Physical Therapy, initiated a study to evaluate how effectively the muscle is activated when using the Shake Weight against a traditional dumbbell of equal weight. The study involved 16 healthy men and women, between 18 and 30 years of age. Before beginning the test phase, each volunteer familiarized themselves with the proper way of exercising with the Shake Weight. The women used the 2.5 pound weight and the men used the 5 pound weight. Once they were familiar with the weight they followed the six-minute Shake Weight DVD workout that included 4 different exercises. These 4 exercises were then duplicated with 4 equivalent exercises using a traditional dumbbell of equal weight. Muscle activity was recorded as well.
The results of the study showed that, on average, total muscle activity was 66 percent greater when performing Shake Weight exercises. Sounds good right? Well, the infomercial promised increased muscle activity of 300%, so you do the math. Overall, fitness levels of individuals will play a role in determining increased muscle activity so the results may not be typical for everyone. Will you buy one and test it out for yourself?
Exploring P90X
P90X exploded onto the scene in 2004 and has since established itself as the most popular home exercise program in America. Started by celebrity trainer Tony Horton, P90X has sold over 3 million copies. The program is comprised of six workouts a week for 90 days using what is called muscle confusion - a technique where workouts are changed regularly before the body has a chance to adapt to the exercise. As a result, the body burns more fat and builds more muscle, more quickly. Sounds pretty straight forward, right?
ACE and the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, Exercise and Health Program put P90X to the test. The study consisted of 16 healthy volunteers between the ages of 19 and 26. They all worked out regularly and were either experienced in P90X or similar programs. Four P90X workouts were chosen as the main focus of the research. To begin, all of the volunteers became familiar with the 4 chosen workouts during practice sessions. Once the subjects were deemed proficient enough in the exercise they performed it as best they could while their heart rates were monitored and their tiredness levels were evaluated. The subjects performed these exercises for several weeks with at least 48 hours between workouts.
The results from this study showed that the P90X workouts met or exceeded fitness industry standards for losing weight (which is 1-2 pounds a week) and for improving cardiovascular fitness. It proved "P90X is a valuable way to burn calories, build muscle and improve your overall fitness level". If you think this is good news you'll be thrilled to know there is a P90X2!
It's your decision
In the end, whether you choose the Shake Weight, P90X or just the good old fashioned treadmill, any type of physical activity is good for you and your heart. Just be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any type of rigorous exercise program especially if you do not work out on a regular basis or are taking any medication.
Sources
- "Does the Mega-selling Shake Weight Live Up to the Hype?" , December 2011. Accessed January 12, 2012.
- "Does P90X Really Bring It?" , November 2011. Accessed January 12, 2012.
Serena Smith-Williams - Serena Smith-Williams truly believes your own personal lifestyle does not have to be compromised in order to live healthy and well.
