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Choosing between the Insanity and the Focus T25 workout is not easy, but I’m hoping this review will help you select the program that will get you the best results possible.
Everyone is different – even identical twins are different, so the program that is right for me might not be the best for you. This is why I have broken down the major pros and cons of each program, which will make your decision between the two easier.
If I were to compare Focus T25 and Insanity in two really quick sentences, it would be this:
Insanity is an extreme workout program where you push your body and mind to their limits.
Focus T25 is not quite as demanding as the Insanity workout, the workouts leave you with that “just had a really good workout” feeling.
Most Frequently Asked Questions Answered
Focus T25 is not just a shortened version of the INSANITY program nor is it an easier version. Focus T25 is based around the theory that 25-minutes of high intensity exercise puts your body in the range for optimal continuous calorie burn. This means your body will continue to burn more calories after your workout is over.
Quick Comparison Chart of Insanity vs Focus T25
| INSANITY | FOCUS T25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule Length | 60 Days | 10 Weeks |
| Avg. Workout Time | 45 Minutes | 25 Minutes |
| # of Workouts a Week | 6 | 5 |
| Equipment Needed | None | Resistance Band (included) |
| Equipment Recommended | Plyometric Mat, Heart Rate Monitor | Resistance Band or Dumbbells, Mat |
| Diet | Balanced Diet Plan | Simplified Balanced Diet Plan |
| # of Workouts | 12 | 11 |
| Saying | “Dig Deeper” | “You Have to Focus” |
| Workout/Fitness Guide | Included | Included |
| Workout Calendar | Included | Included |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 60-Day | 30-Day |
| Price | $119.85- Buy Here | $59.85- Buy Here |
Who These Programs Are Perfect for
The Insanity workout program was created for people who want an intense cardiovascular exercise program. It’s hardcore. The plyometric-based movements are meant to shred fat from your body and is great for people who want a more bootcamp style workout. Think insanely tough :)
Focus T25 is also high intensity cardiovascular training with some weight training mixed in for a full body toning workout that hits not only your core, but your legs, arms, and back. The workouts in Focus T25 are only 25 minutes long for 5 days a week, which is optimum for those with full time jobs, busy moms, etc.
The T25 program is perfect for those who want to get an intense workout with less time to spare each day or for those who just want to change up their longer daily workout routine for something shorter to maintain results.
Focus T25 Trumps Insanity in Modified Moves
The biggest drawback for me with the Insanity workout is that Insanity really has no exercise modifications. I understand the workout would not be as intense with exercise modifications, but I would rather a less intense version of an exercise than only being given the option to walk it out or jog in place until being able to continue with the workout.
If you’re not already in really good shape, plan on walking or jogging in place to catch your breath often when first beginning Insanity. The good news with this is that you do build up endurance quickly, so you will last longer each and every workout.
Focus T25 has modified variations of every single exercise move. Sometimes, the camera angle is not always the best for viewing the exercise modifications, but you do always have the option, which is especially nice when you’re doing spider push ups for the first time… yikes! I absolutely love having the modified moves to fall back on when I was out of breath or just couldn’t physically do the moves.
When I really feel like I can’t keep up, I drop down to the modified movements, and then when I catch my breath, I focus back on the real movements. The modified moves in Focus T25 are perfect for:
- Those who are not in that great of shape
- Those with bad knees – you never have your feet leave the ground with the modified exercises, because they are all low-impact variations :)
Workout Equipment is Minimal
Insanity has a leg up on Focus T25 when it comes to exercise equipment you’ll need. With the Insanity workout program, you don’t need any equipment. However, a heart rate monitor and plyometric mat are highly recommended.
On the other hand, Focus T25 does have some weight training workouts, which means you will need to supply your own set of dumbbells or use a resistance band. Luckily, the Focus T25 program comes with a 15lb B-Lines resistance band. I prefer dumbbells, although it’s a little bit of an investment at first, but something you can use for the rest of your life after you finish the program…an investment in your health
Workout Schedule Differences
The Focus T25 workout program schedule is 10-weeks long, and Insanity is 60-days. Needless to say, it’s not that big of a difference.
Both programs have two phases: the first phase preps you for the second phase, which is more intense than the first. The second phase workouts of Insanity are longer than the workouts in the first phase, while the Focus T25 workouts remain 25 minutes throughout the second phase.
There is also a third phase to Focus T25 called gamma (sold separately) that is more weight training oriented. I will review this phase in a later post.
What Kind of Results Can You Expect?
For people who put there all into the Insanity program, following the diet and workouts to a T, losing 20-30 pounds over the course of the program is not uncommon.
With Focus 25 being a newer program, there are still limited results to see. After a week of T25, I was already seeing a difference in my abs and my thighs. I could even see the beginnings of my lower abdominal muscles!
Here’s a short breakdown of what you can expect with both:
Insanity:
- Weight loss
- Improved muscle definition
- A ripped athletic looking body
Focus T25:
- Weight loss
- More toning and shaping of the muscles
- A well-toned body
Shaun T is Not the Same Trainer
Much like actors in different movie roles, Shaun T’s personality and training style is much different in T25 than it is in Insanity. He also slightly altered his appearance for Focus T25. Who knew he would look so different with hair?!
In Insanity, Shaun T is clean shaven (including his head) and has more of a drill sergeant personality than one of a fitness instructor. He does a lot of yelling and will scream at you to push it and dig deeper – not necessarily my favorite style of motivation, but for a lot of people it works, and it works very well.
In Focus T25, Shaun T is sporting a goatee and a full head of hair. Not only is his appearance different, he is more concerned about proper form and having you focus on your core muscles than in the Insanity program.
Which is the Better Program for Beginners?
If you are just beginning to work out on a regular basis after a long time away or just not used to working out, I whole-heatedly recommend beginning with the Focus T25 first. Plus, as I mentioned earlier, T25 shows you a lower intensity modification on every single move, which Insanity does not have.
Which Program Will Help You Lose the Most Weight
Ah, it all comes down to the big question and the most difficult to answer: Will you lose as much weight with Focus T25 as you would with Insanity? There are so many factors that go into this, it’s impossible to really answer the question.
You will lose weight with either program, if that is your goal. Weight loss is caused by a calorie deficit over time. As long as you burn more calories than you’re consuming, you will lose weight.
How Much the Workout Programs Cost
If you order Insanity or Focus T25 through Team Beachbody, you receive a free workout program with either program. This is something you can only get through Team Beachbody and is only available for a limited time.
Both workout programs are $119.95, plus any applicable taxes including shipping & handling.
To order the Insanity workout program with the free Fast & Furious workout, click here.
I have also included a direct link, so you can order the Focus T25 workout at the lowest price available online. Plus, it includes the free Core Speed workout (which I LOVE!) that you can get by clicking here.
14-Day Trial to BOD
Both programs are now part of the Beachbody On Demand member library, which means you get access to test both programs with online streaming. There is a 14-day trial(scroll down for offer after clicking the link, bottom right) to access the promotion.
Still Need Help Deciding?
If you still need help choosing between Insanity vs Focus T25, please leave a comment below, and I will do my best to help you decide. Please share as much information about yourself as you feel comfortable, so we can make the right choice for you.
Hi,
I have been looking for a program that will make me loose my belly fat and get some muscles. I am confused… I am only 19 years old, 5 feet and 9 inches height and I weight 73 kg… I have been “exercising” for around one month and eating healthier food than before. I stopped smoking, eating unhealthy food and all that stuff but I still feel bad because I feel my body does not change and I feel like I cannot keep exercising and not because I don’t want to but because I feel I am not going to see any change. It is so hard for me to be able to get up early and start exercising, see all that not healthy food and stop myself from eating it… Obviously, once I exercise I feel great. I think I am not motivated and that I am lost because what I do will not work but what I am trying to get a good program so I can be healthier and have a better body. I want to get T25 since, basically, I am a beginner but I want to make sure it will work…
Hi Leonardo, Sounds like you need a program to keep you on track. You just started, going at it for a month, you should be proud. But, it takes time to see major changes, just keep going! T25 is the better choice for the beginner and I believe it would be the better of the two options for you. Bethany
Hi what program would suit me the best if I want to develop my body like soccer player for example Cristiano Ronaldo? ATM I am Skinny but have a small pot belly coming.along. I would also build a little bit of muscle as my arms are skinny but still get lean and ripped. Which of these programme are best suited for my needs? Also what equipment would I need in order to help me deliver the result I want to see?
Hi Sonny, It is not as much about the program as it is diet. Yes, you need to exercise, T25 is better for the beginner, which you need at least a strength band for. Bethany
Hi Bethany, Great side by side comparison. I’ve previously been athletic all my life, and I’ve ran 4 marathons, the most recent of which, however, will have been 2 years ago this summer. I had a baby 3 months ago, and after getting pregnant I have not worked out as much (Ive gone to the gym some post partum and it’s felt great!) and now have 30-35 lbs of baby weight to lose. Which program do you recommend? I’m intrigued by Insanity and want go get down to my regular size and look toned as quickly as possible, but as a new mom I’m thinking the shorter workout time in T25 could be of benefit.
Hi Tess, Yes if you are strapped for time and have been not worked out in a while I would recommend T25 to begin. This would also build a great base of cardiovascular endurance if you wanted to do Insanity in the future. Bethany
Hi I just started T25 and I really like it…. Could i go to the gym and work out after my 25 mins work out with T25 and work out with wieghts or no?
HI Joe, Just be sure to listen to your body if you feel low on energy be sure to back off. The second phase of T25 is a bit more strength training, just fyi. Bethany
In the T25 infomercial, it shows individual disks for the different workouts. Is this the actual set up? I like the idea of working out at home, but not if i have to change disks every few minutes.
Hi Karla, There is more than one workout on each disc. Bethany
Hi Bethany
I’m 6ft 6in 293 lbs and I’ve been dieting and exercising since Christmas, I’m down 24lbs already but need something to take off the next 50 it so. I suffer with bad knees and raised blood pressure. My question is am I setting myself up to fail with T25 at this stage or should I try something less intense and go for T25 when I’m closer to a sensible weight.
Hi Ed, First, congrats that is awsome! While you should consult you doctor first, it sounds to me that you will be able to handle T25 just fine. If there are moves that bother your knees, I would suggest following the low impact modifier for those. Bwethny
Hi Bethany, I haven’t worked out for the last 8 years since I got out of the Army. I’m 44 years old now approximately 6’1″ and weigh around 240 lbs. My goal is to get down to around 200 lbs. I want some cardio benefit as well as weight loss and muscle tone. I’m not looking to get “ripped” just lean and toned. I’m leaning towards T25. What would you recommend for me? Thank you
Hi Bryan, Yes, T25 I think is a better option for those who are looking to get back in the game. BEthany
Hi I’m Trinie, I’m trying to decide if insanity or t25 would be better if my main focus will working out is the work on my mid section. I admit I need a full body workout but my mid section needs the most work after havinga baby I put on a lot of extra pounds. Thx in advance for your response.
Hi Trinie, T25 is the program I have seen people having more success with at this time. Bethany
I’ve broken both fib and tib on both my legs (lots of screws and rods) . I’ve also had 3 back surgeries. Are any of these programs good for someone with limitations?
Hi Kelly, You really need to consult with your doctor on this one. Sorry, I can’t help more. Bethany
I’m thinking about combining T25 + going to the gym 3-4 times a week. Do you think this is smart? I plan on using the Cardio/AB focused CDs before hitting the gym. I don’t like running on a treadmill so I figured it’d be about the same workout as running 3-4 miles on a treadmill which is what I usually do, but I hate it.
Hi Doty, As long as your diet can sustain the increase in activity, ut can be done. I hate the treadmill too, so boring. If you are doing weights at the gym, I would suggest doing the cardio after. Bethany
I’d like to take you up on your offer to recommend a fitness program. I work full-time and have kids – I need a time-and-cost effective exercise program! I am a 52yo woman in good health but have gained about 10lbs (midriff and all over) in the last several years since I stopped exercising after a minor injury (now recovered 100%). I need something I can do relatively quickly in front of the tv without much space or equipment, though I do have a treadmill. I plateaued and got bored with the treadmill and pilates dvd (pilates for wimps) I did several years ago and it’s been chubville ever since. I think I’d like to do a HIIT type of program, but have heard that’s hard to do without a bike. Thank you so much!
Hi Cece, T25. HIIT can be done with any type of exercise. T25 sounds perfect for your goals, schedule and lifestyle. Bethany
Hi! First off, I really enjoyed your article. I’m currently on week 4 of T25. My question is, on the Beta cycle, when do you use the Core Speed bonus disc? I’m looking at the calendar, and it doesn’t say when to do that workout. I thought about alternating it with my stretches every other week on Sundays. But what would you recommend? Also, I saw an ad for the Gamma cycle. Should I eventually go into Insanity after T25 or should I invest in the Gamma workouts? Thanks
HI Eben, I like the idea of alternating it in on Sundays. Gamma is more strength training, so if you are looking to tone, it is great oprion. Insanity is all body weight and really aimed at maximum fat loss. Bethany
Hi,
Im 25, since I have memory I’ve always bee an active person. Swimming class, ballet dancer for 3 years, Olympic gymnastics, and so many others.
During college I practiced long distance track running, that made my skin “flaccid” and I lost a lot of muscle mass but my cardio and mind resistance are amazing.
I finished insanity twice last year and then I practiced CrossFit. Now, 2015 my economy isn’t the best so I had to drop Crossfit.
I’m about to finish insanity for the 3rd time in my life and to be honest, I’m getting a little bored.
I want to try something different but that it still gives that sense of accomplishment and a lot of sweat. But my first and most important objective is to get my muscles more TONED and DEFINED. I eat super clean.
Can you tell me which is the best for what I’m searching? I’m between P90X program or T25.
Or if you know about another one I’m opened to that option too.
Thank you!
Hi Alexandra, Maybe take a look at the new INSANITY MAX:30 program. I have really tightened up a lot over the first 4 weeks of the program. In fact, I have gained a pound and by the looks of result photos it was muscle. I’m going to post my results later tonight on the blog if you want to check back. If it was just between P90X and T25 I like T25 more. Bethany
Thank you so much!! I’ll definitely give a try to INSANITY MAX:30.
I love what you do and how you share it with others.
You’re inspiring.
Thank you for the kind words!
Is this for me? I weigh 213 height 5.5 turning 50 on 2/14/15. I have 3 curves in my spine, constant lower back pain, knee pain. I want a workout that is not on the floor as getting up/down from the floor is a workout in its self. I have lost the balance in my left ear so I tilt to the side. So I fall over real easy. I want to do something but do not want something that is to much for me. I want something that is fun and is not making me feel like a failure before I even start.
Hi, I would talk to your health care processional. I don”t want to recommend something and have it to intense.
Hi, I had torn tummy muscles following two pregnancies close together. I was told never to do a sit up again however I am allowed to do the plank. I desperately want to loose two stone. My youngest will be three in July and I’ve been reluctant to excercise until now, allowing my body to heal itself as best as it can. I still have a slight gap of approx 4cms.
Would the t25 be ok for me to do.
Thanks in advance
Hi Lucy, I’d talk to your doctor before beginning. But, if there are any questionable moves don’t them. There are no old fashioned sit up moves per say.
hi Bethany, I workout regularly between 3-4 times per wk. i’m in pretty good shape. however, i’d like to get more toned. mainly my thighs, butt and upper arms. my stomach/abdominal area is already pretty flat. but i’d like a more defined core. currently, when I go to my gym I do mostly weight training exercises on my own. I use dumbells, barbells (20 lb & 30 lb bars), and the weight machines. I also run stairs indoors during the winter and jog/run outdoors when the weather is decent. I do a 30 min abs class at least once per wk. I eat clean/healthy, properly portioned, balanced meals.
i’m trying to decide which one I should order. I’m leaning more towards T25 because of the short length of the workout sessions. I do NOT like to workout for long periods of time. anything more than 30 mins is not really my cup of tea. i’m willing to do 45 mins sometimes, depending what mood i’m in.
my question is whether T25 would benefit me for toning and not weight loss ??
Hi Syllinia, Yes, you can tone with T25 and not lose weight. You just want to be eat enough calories to sustain your body weight. This info is included in the diet guide.
Hey Bethany I’m not a very motivated person and I’m kind of lazy but I really want to start working out what should I do
Hi Megan, Why do you want to start working out? Write it down and refer to it as often as you need to until you make working out an engraved habit in your life.
Hi my name is Norma im 21 my height ia 5’1 and I weight 108 pounds. My body fat percentage os 25% which is a lot and I want to be fit. I dont know which program to choose because Im spanish and for my cultute a good body is an hourglass figure. I see the results on many of this girls are more of a square shape and I see that they lose their butts. To be honest I just want to lose my waist and tighten and tone the rest of my body which program would you say I should use for me not to become a stickfigure because that is not my goal
Hi Norma, Unfortuantly, what you are talking about has more to do with genetics than a workout program.Some people will retain there hourglass figures, some won’t, nothing you really you do about it. I would suggest trying to get in the best shape possible and not worry about the perfect figure. Just be the best you that you can be. Bethany
Hi there – I am 41 and work out often. I do spin class twice a week and boot camp twice a week. My schedule is going to be a mess in the upcoming months and will miss nearly every class I normally attend. So I need to workout at home. Insanity, Focus T25 or even P90x? Although I work out regularly, I need to shed some fat around the middle and tone up my arms more.
Thanks!
Kelly
Hi Kelly, All three are great programs, though I do believe the orignal P90X might be a little outdated. Maybe consider P90X3, they are 30 minute workouts which include both strength and cardio based workouts. Bethany
Hey Bethany,
I am 18 years old, 6′ 2″ and weigh 170 pounds, so i’m rather slim for my age. I do HIIT cycling and try to go to the gym 4 times a week, consistency is something I still struggle with. My main goal is to get a more toned (like abs) / ripped body and gain more muscle mass. (I don’t really need to lose weight). Which program do you think would best suit me? Thanks in advance
Hi Alex, T25 Gamma phase sounds like it would be a good option. It is more strength training based and uses dumbbell exercise which will help you build muscle mass. -Bethany