Athlean-X Review
I’ve been an athlete all my life. I have always been fast, strong, and explosive. In short, I was an athlete and I looked like one too.
But, when you go through 8 years to get your doctorate and have 3 kids in 3 years, life and your priorities start to change.
I am 33 years old and still in great shape, but I had the urge to get back into real training. I missed being a highly explosive athlete, and I just looked skinnier than I wanted to.
It was time to do something.
I came across Athlean-X and really liked what I saw. Here was a guy who really knew what he was talking about. I didn’t mention my background, but I have a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, and my doctorate is in Chiropractic. I know the human body inside and out. I know what makes a phenomenal program.
While I could have just as easily created a program myself, I wanted somebody else to show me what to do, and in what order. Take all the guess work out. Athlean-X is that program and Jeff Cavaliere is that man.
I wasn’t interested in getting big, bloated muscles. I wanted the ripped, athletic muscle I had when I was at my peak.
I had of course seen the P90X programs, and the Insanity workouts, but they never appealed to me.
Why?
Because of all the patients I have seen go on them, they always quit.
The workouts take too darn long, and the schedule is too many days out of the week. I am a father, husband, and business owner. I don’t have the time, and I don’t really want to be working out for an hour a day.
Just not practical.
But Athlean-X is different.
The workouts are the perfect length. It’s Monday through Friday. No weekends. Just like I used to workout for sports.
It was the perfect fit.
I am currently on week 2 of the initial 12 week program. I have looked at all 12 weeks, watched the videos, and I am downright impressed.
Like I said, my background is in Exercise Science, and this program is the real deal. I can feel my body changing already, and I know this is going to continue right along through the whole program.
One of the problems I had when I was in my late teens and early 20′s was that I worked out too dang much. I over taxed my body because I was driven. I had goals and I wanted to achieve them. Hence, I would often over train.
It’s a common problem.
But not with Athlean-X. The program is laid out so that the proper rest and recovery occurs. After all, everybody knows this is where the real growth occurs. While you are sleeping and in your down time.
The Athlean-X program could have saved me many injuries.
It would have gotten me to my goals much, much quicker had it been around earlier.
If you are on the fence, just get it.
It’s only $97 ( I highly recommend the upgraded package. Base package is $67). The videos are high quality, there is no guess work, and you will be reaching your goals in no time.
If you are going to a gym to workout, you will have all of the equipment you need. If you are like me, and no longer want to take the time to drive to and from the gym, you can work out at home.
I would highly, highly recommend getting the Powerblock dumbbells. Most of the program is built around dumbbells, and these are second to none. It will be a little expensive out of the gate, but they are worth every penny.
I got mine a few weeks back, and all I can say is I wish I had a pair years ago. The investment is well worth it. Other than that, a $15 exercise tubing, pull-up bar, and either an exercise ball or a bench, and you are good to go.
So head on over there and grab your Athlean-X program.
I will probably post more about my progress, so stay tuned and bookmark this site.
In the meantime, if you are currently using Athlean-X, leave me a comment below and tell me how it’s going for you.
[divider_line]Insert Your Text Here[/divider_line]I originally poste this in July of 2012 on a different website.
Since then I have used the AX-1 program 2 1/2 times and then went on to use AX-2. Both are very good programs. AX-2 has more muscle building to it than AX-1, which has more burst training, but I would definitely do AX-1 first. Don’t try to skimp here. You are going to get good results on both programs if you put your mind to it.
It is now June of 2013 when I write this and I have changed up my workouts once again. I put Athlean-X on the shelf for now and have moved to Isometric exercises along with Dynamic Tension type exercises that Charles Atlas used to teach.
I like to keep things interesting and also experiment.
But all in all, if you are on the fence about Athlean-X, don’t be. It’s a great program and Jeff Cavaliere is constantly adding to it.
Thanks for the review. Been interested in checking it out. The other reviews I’d read were by people who didn’t seem to know what they were talking about so it’s good to hear an educated one.
Yes, I think Jeff does a good job with Athean-X. He is very science and anatomy oriented. I would recommend anybody to purchase it, even if it’s another program to add to the training library.
Hello I was just curious as to how leg training goes in the AX1 and AX2 system? thanks!
Like everything he does, it’s very functional based. Dumbbells are used to add weight, Bench step-ups, etc. He does a good job of combining movements to make a short, concise workout.
I am 74 yrs young and I am wondering if someone my age can actually gain muscle, although since I have my knees replaced, twice for the right leg, leg exercises are basically out. Anyway, my main goal is to lose some weight and at the same time perhaps look a little more muscular. I have been lifting weights for several yrs without much difference in my appearance. Also trying to get a flatter stomach. Since I am 5’10” and weigh about 196lbs, it has been hard for me to lose some weight. My diabetic
Dr. wants me to lose 15-20lbs, which is more than likely not happening. I realize that my age makes things much more difficult to get results but would just like to get your opinion. I have looked at Jeffs program and his free videos, but I think that those videos are geared for the “young at heart”. I have no idea how to get into direct contact with Jeff, so here I am asking you. Just sayin.
Thanks, and be safe out there,
Donald
Hi Donald. Yes, you can change your physique, even at your age. The guy you want to start following is John Peterson over at http://www.transformetrics.com
You don’t need weights. In fact, most people don’t need weights. Buy John’s books, and go on his Living Strength forum regularly. You will learn a lot, and most likely be able to make some of the changes you are looking for.
I appreciate the review and find it very informative. I need some help though. I have suffered from back pain for about 15 years, and about 8 months ago, I was having severe pain down right leg. My pain was a 10 and prevented me from doing daily task (sleep, walking, driving, sitting, etc). MRI showed a significant bulge pressing nerve at L4/L5. I had surgery, which reduced my pain but did not get rid of it completely. I am still in pain and on a good day it is about a 7 but still impacts all daily activities. Other treatments (steroid injections, dry needling, physical therapy, and chiropractor) have been unsuccessful. I would like to begin an exercise plan to get in shape, but have gotten mixed messages from doctors. Some say not to exercise, while other say do whatever I want. I have never exercised or joined a gym. Do you think this plan will give me guidance on what to do, and how to do it? I am afraid to do anything on my own due to fear to making my situation worse.
Thanks,
Scott
Hi Scott,
The place you want to check out is http://www.transformetrics.com. If you are looking for safe, protective, health building exercise, then that is your place. Athlean-X is more for a different crowd. Good program, but I steer people to John Peterson and his website. Especially somebody who has pain.
Thanks so much for the review. I am 54 and recently had my 2nd hip replacement so now I have two new hips (other 4 yrs. ago). I have always been very active with lifting and various cardio (running, inline skating). Running is out now and I have gained weight the past 6 months during previous hip pain and then recovery from surgery. Do you think this program would be safe for me to follow as I work myself back into shape? Thanks so much
Like I have mentioned in a few comments earlier, I think somebody in your situation would be best to follow John Peterson over at http://www.transformetrics.com. He has the best information for protective and healthy strength building. Athlean-X is good, but I would steer you towards John Peterson.
After researching many websites, I bought this Athlean-X system.
I bought this today and it is a complete bull shit. DO NOT BUY Athlean-X .. never ever I will never ever spend money for an online stuff like that again in my life.
All the positive reviews/videos you see on the internet about Athlean-X are written by someone from Athlean-X.
I purchased it thinking that the Athlean X is gonna teach me something completely new, I was totally disappointed.
NEVER EVER buy Athlean X. COMPLETE WASTE OF MONEY. SUCH A TRASH.
It is simply the same kind of information you see everywhere on the internet about gym workout.
Only thing done in Athlean-X – system is that they simply organised the exercises in the order for 3 months + meal plans for each week. Nothing else.
I can bet you that in your busy life, you are not gonna follow his diet plan strictly. Each person is different and you need to understand what deficiency you have and eat accordingly.
It is not worth the money. It is simply some workout plans that the company is selling.
Better I should have spent that 100 USD for buying my supplements and some dumbbells and barbells.
The key to getting a better body is only by doing hard work, nothing else.
There is no new inventions in body building. You just have to focus on muscle groups and try to get sore in and focus the tension on the muscle, and get microscopic tissue tear and there you go.
I have set up my own work out plan which is convenient and I enjoy it, and I can see the results 🙂
I’m glad you have a plan that works for you. No, I have nothing to do with Athlean-X. I am not from Athlean-X. Interesting comment you make.
Some people need the structure and organization….and some don’t. It’s a good program for some people, and not so much for others. If you get one good idea from the program, then it’s worth it.
I like your post, Thank you.
Hi there
My 14 year old nephew wants to buy this Athlean-X program. He is trying to gain some weight and build muscles as well. Would you recommend this for a growing teens? Or should he look for other work out program?
Any suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks for then reviews above, they are informative
Yes, he can certainly do this program. It’s very well put together. Like I have mentioned the other comments, I really like John Peterson’s information as well over at http://www.transformetrics.com.
i am 59 years old training with 5×5 squat 265, deadlift 265, bench press 150, shoulder press 100 and bend over row 150. Can this program really make a difference.?
There is always benefit to learning new information. Even just 1 new thing can make all the difference. Personally, I like learning new things.
I bought AX-1 beginning program. Wow! I was pleasantly surprise, very intense I will give an honest try for 12 weeks and see where it gets me. Learning new ways to train. Thank you. I let you know how I do after 12 weeks.
Just make sure you pay attention to yourself and how you are feeling. No need to overtrain.
Hi Dr. Larsen,
Is this workout ok for people after discectomy?
Thank you!
D
It depends on the workout for that day. If it was me, I would follow John Peterson at http://www.transformetrics.com. Something more along those lines is what you are looking for. The exercises he promotes are both healing and muscle building/toning.
Hello, thanks for the review. One question, are you a paid endorser or reviewer? I noticed you used at least 2 of his phrases verbatim.
“Take all the guess work out” and
“So head on over there and grab your Athlean-X program”
Is this a legit review? It seemed scripted.
Hi Tom,
Yes, it’s a real review, not scripted. I have nothing to do with Athlean-X and have never been paid. It must just be common phrases. My overall experience with Athlean-X was good, but it did wear me down over time. I have since switched to more isometric exercises based on many of the old-time writings and also John Peterson at http://www.transformetrics.com. This switch has proven to be very beneficial to me.
But, all-in-all, Athlean-X is a very well designed program.
I havent worked out for couple of months now. Can i still start this program?
I can’t answer that. Of course, check with your doctor and take it slow at first. Work your way into it.
I have to agree with Xavier, though I don’t think Athlean-X is total BS as Xavieer states in such a harsh way. However, I do believe Athlean-X is NOT worth the money. It’s nothing more than an online schedule and tracking tool. No different from any other tracking tool you can get online or in an app. I say this and I’ve been following Jeff on YouTube for several years. He has good info and deserves to be paid for his services, but the online Athlean-X program is simply not something I see people should pay for unless they want to pay as a thank you for all the YouTube videos.
Do yourself a favor and donate if you want, but you might be much better off with some type of phone/tablet app that’s a LOT less expensive. Or even pickup a free book from your local library because nothing is new to fitness of the body. Safety is key and he does provide that info, but so do others.
Personally, the best information I have found has been from books written in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.
I find the negative comments funny. Some people know everything already and don’t get anything new from the AX programs. The vast majority though have minimal insight and not a lot of free time to dive into the rabbit hole of finding fitness information on the internet. Jeff Cavaliere is respected by the community and his peers. Paying 97 dollars to save myself the hassle? Will do anytime. I have very limited free time and I’m not willing to sacrifice any of it just to engage in trial and error workout planning for myself. I’m glad I can throw money at the problem and solve it.
I agree. Jeff does a great job and is very knowledgeable. I often buy a course just to learn one new thing. Because of my profession, I go to a lot of seminars. Some in-state, but many out of state (lots of travel). I learned a long time ago from a doctor at a seminar that you are only looking for one “golden nugget” at each seminar (or course you would buy).
I liked his perspective and have stuck to that ever since. I might sit through two days of a mediocre seminar, but I always find at least one thing that can make a change in my life, or the life of a patient.
I love it . Doing AX 1 and Max Size.
As a physician his explanations of proper technique are perfect. I work hard and have appropriate , not crippling, muscular pain. Joints feel great.
I’m 60 and after a lifetime of training, usually improperly, these workouts are great.
36 yo and looking to add muscle mass. I know as I age that will be harder to accomplish, and my muscle mass has really decreased over last few years due to family/3 kids under 6/work etc. On one hand I look too skinny but on the other hand I’m softer around the mid section – so body fat % is definitely up. Funny thing is my waist line remains about the same but the reduced muscle mass has me buying skinnier pants. All of that said, can I get the mass I want from this program if I eat right? Or should I look to different program? I don’t want to sacrifice functionality and athleticism for mass but also don’t want to be too skinny.
Checked out transformetrics.com but not sure I’m ready to give up the weights yet. I do love the idea of function and protecting / strengthening spine. As we age posture starts to go so I am really intrigued.
Both programs will allow you to increase mass if that is what you want.
I read in some reviews that the videos are only snippets of the exercise or are they full 30 min vidoes that I can follow along?
I honestly don’t remember. Regardless, he gives you everything you need to be successful with the exercises.
I just finished AX 1. I’m 46 and 2 kids so similar circumstance as the Doc. I have always been an athlete from school and into mountain biking for 20 years in British Columbia. One thing to add. AX 1 does such an awesome job of training muscles you neglect. I had chronic IT band pain for years despite PT and had a SLAP tear in my shoulder from a fight(I’m a P Officer) that I wouldn’t get surgery for. AX 1 strengthened all the surrounding muscles eliminating both very painful areas. I don’t know Jeff Cavelier and I don’t work for athlean x in any way. This is the best program I’ve ever come across. I agree with the Doc. Its short and to the point in its workouts which makes it sustainable. Its very demanding if you truly push yourself. If you half a$$ it then yes, you will feel you didn’t get your moneys worth. You CANNOT go wrong for under $100. This dude made an awesome product and deserves all the praise he gets IMO. About to start AX 2
I agree Ken. You can’t go wrong for under $100. Even if you only learned one new thing.
Great Article. I am currently playing football at the collegiate level and I am tying to take my game to another level. Do you think this workout program can do that (build muscle/explosiveness), or is this more for people who just want to get in better shape?
I think it can, yes. However, I think if I was trying to improve for a sport I would pick something else. I personally used Bigger, Faster, Stronger with great success when I was in high school sports. My kids use it now as well in our home gym and at school. It’s straight to the point with no frills, but highly effective. I think people try to complicate things too much. BFS works.