The Power 90 weight loss and conditioning program is offered by Team Beachbody and was created by Tony Horton, one of the better known Team Beachbody trainers. He has developed popular programs such as Power Half Hour, Power 90, P90X, 10-Minute Trainer, and P90X2. He also has programs designed specifically for working with kids, and the older generation.

Power 90, or as it is marketed, Power 90 / 90-Day in Home Boot Camp does not get the exposure that it deserves. Many people like what they see in the highly publicized P90X infomercials and buy the program only to discover that some of the movements are too difficult, the workouts take up too much of their time, or that they are just not enthusiastic about some of the routines like Yoga X. Many people just don't have a very good option when it comes to setting up a pull-up bar and pull-ups are a big part of the P90X program. Others find that this program is simply too advanced for their present-day fitness level.

Power 90 basically offers some of the same fundamental movements and in a little less time than what is needed to complete a workout in P90X. The beginning cardio routine is similar to the Kenpo X routine, and the resistance routines are paced to offer a cardio workout along with the strength training routine. Much of the cardio routines consist of effective, but classic punches and kicks used in many different martial arts styles.

As with most of the programs introduced through Team Beachbody, there are different levels of intensity offered to allow for a transition for a beginner, to a more advanced workout. The program offers Sculpt Circuit 1-2, Sweat Cardio 1-2, Sculpt Circuit 3-4, Sweat Cardio 3-4, Ab Ripper 100 and 200, plus the program guide, and accessories for about 60 dollars. There is also a Master Series for this program that enables you to advance even further if you wish to add it at a later date.

The strength training routines can successfully and with results, be completed using resistance bands, but gives the option of using dumbbells. The resistance bands are more easily transportable and take up less space which makes them a viable option for any strength training routine, and the bands offered through Team Beachbody are readily available in up to 50 pounds of resistance. When purchased through a Team Beachbody Coach, a band will be included with your purchase. For those of you who feel more comfortable with the more traditional dumbbells, either a range of standard dumbbells will be needed, or a set of adjustable dumbbells. If you decide on the adjustable, consider how quickly you can move from one weight to the next because as with many of the cardio/weight routines there is little time between exercises.

If you find yourself struggling with P90X, or have seen the P90X infomercials and want to give it a try but are a little intimidated by some of the seemingly complicated movements or the hour long routines, Power 90 might be a good fit for you. Use Power 90 as a stand-alone routine or as a preliminary routine to prepare you for P90X.

It is important to note that as with any of the available home fitness programs from Team Beachbody, you are motivated to push yourself, but at the same time to work at your own personal pace when working out with this system. Do not get discouraged if you find that you cannot keep up with the trainers. Just keep busy, do the best you can, and take your breaks when you need them. Getting fit and healthy does not include self-induced injuries because you tried to push yourself too hard.

Power 90 along with several other home fitness and weight loss programs, nutritionals, and accessories are available through your Independent Team Beachbody Coach.

A physical check-up could possibly identify underlying problems that may need to be addressed; as always, it is highly recommended that you check with your doctor before beginning any new weight loss or fitness routine.