I know that plans like this are individual but I'm curious to hear it all because so many of these popular plans are heard over and over, while some that have worked wonders for others aren't heard of. So, since I'm picking out a plan myself I thought maybe we could all post what worked best and maybe hear of a few new ones to look up or try.

You don't have to post a lot of info, maybe just some short stuff and a link to it if you can. This really isn't about diet pills though so none of that please. Thanks everyone

I'm doing the P90X program at the moment. P90X is an intense exercise program coupled with a diet that you follow during the program. Essentially you are going to be on a high protein diet, with very little carb in-take. After the first month, you start to add carbs back into your diet, while maintaining a high amount of protein consumption.

Here are my results after 35 days:

                                   Start         35 days later
Pull ups                         1/2                 8
Weight benched             45lbs           135lbs
Push Ups                        12                 40
Distance able to run   ~2 miles         ~5 Miles

Here is a link to their website: http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x.do


P90X has easily put me in the best shape of my life. The program really does work, but it's definitely a commitment. I would consider myself moderately unhealthy at the start, but you can't argue with the results.

I think that depends on what your goals are.  After high school, I put on about 40 lbs of muscle.  (I think this was denial over being trans.)   Anyway, I had to eat a lot, and eat healthy.  And there was no substitute for heavy exercises with free weights.  I was consuming about 5,000 calories a day, and at least 200 g of protein, eating every 2-3 hours while awake.
Funny, now, I'm trying to lose most of the muscle now.

Kalista- That's pretty incredible! My mom got the P90X set and I've considered doing it but I'm not sure I have the commitment in me that I hear it will take.

niciwer- Wow 40 lbs of muscle?! That sounds like it took a lot of food commitment. Did the food cost you a lot? My current food issue is eating healthy because it requires taking time to make food. I know the laziness is my current issue I'm trying to work on. I mean I'm in the heat at work all day then 6 hours on a bus every day and by the time I get home from that it leaves me not feeling up to much.

Yes, it was a lot of commitment and was not easy, but I should mention it was over two years.  Fortunately at the time I worked  in the food service industry, which cut the cost of food significantly.  90% is eating right.