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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 Bethany! Thank you soo much for all of your awesome input on this site! I have a question of my own now :) I have completed numerous rounds (like 2 years worth) of INSANITY. I stopped doing it because I was getting bored with doing the same thing over and over. Because of that, I started eating worse and have recently put on some unwanted weight. I LOVED the results I got from INSANITY. They were everything I ever wanted.
I was thinking about trying T25 for the full 10 weeks, but when I tried it, it felt way easier than INSANITY did. I have only done a few of the workouts, but I was thinking I probably won’t get the same results as INSANITY in just 25 minutes and with the intensity level of T25. Now after reading these comments, I feel I probably didn’t give T25 a chance. However, I am skeptical as to whether it can produce the same results I got from INSANITY. When I did INSANITY, I got so lean, tight abs, tight legs and tiny arms, without the bulk. I am hoping it is possible to get this from T25, but like I said, T25 felt easier than INSANITY. Am I just not giving it a chance? Do I need to just stick with it and see if it can work? I know that sounds stupid, but I just don’t want to invest 10 weeks into something that I think will work like Insanity, if it can’t. Basically what I want to know is this: Can I get the same results from T25 that I got from Insanity? Is that even possible when it feels easier?
Thank you SO much :) I truly appreciate your feedback.
Chelsea again, just adding on to my previous post. I wanted to add that I love how manageable (time-wise) T25 is and I really love doing it, I just want it to work as well as Insanity. I just wanted to add that I do really enjoy the program, feel I could really stick with it because I love that its only 25 minutes (I feel I could stick with it easier than I could Insanity now), and I hope it can work as well as Insanity. With that being said, please feel free to be 100% honest about whether you think it would work as well in getting the results I crave :)
Hi Chelsea, Take a look at the MAX:30 program, if you like Insanity you’ll love MAX:30 plus. They are thirty minute workouts, but are super intense. I have a have articles on this site about the program filed under the Insanity category. Bethany
Hi Bethany
I have just discovered your article while looking for what to choose between Insanity and T25 Focus.
Many thanks for having write all of this, that’s really helpful for many people!.
For me my question still to know which will help me : I used to workout so I am not a really beginner, but I don’t have enough time which finish to lead to not working out anymore. I would like to do something not monotonous, and I’ve heard that Insanity is sometime monotonous?
I aiming to loose about 50lbs and tone all my body. I already have dumbbells at home( about 13lbs).
Many thanks for your advises
Nadia
Hi Mudeli, From what you said, I would consider starting with the T25 program. It is shorter time commitment and should be good jump start for you to begin. Bethany
Hello Bethany Lyn,
I am 35 years old and 212 lbs. I have been to gym and started aerobics one year ago but havent seen any major changes in my weight. My doctor says I have a slow metabolism, can you give me some advise onhow I can lose 50 lbs and increase my metabolic rate?
Hi Yvonne, I would see another doctor, a slow metabolism I think would have a cause. I would try to get to the bottom of that, but also keep with your workouts and eat lots of veggies, leans meats, and good carbs, as yu lose weight and build muscle your metabolism will increase. Bethany
Also, i forgot but i eating may be a factor of not loosing weight. I eat way more than i used too back when i was doing insanity for the first time; i have a feeling that the reason why i don’t loose weight is because i don’t do the workouts every day and i don’t do the whole video because i give up sometimes. And i also have a feeling that i take in more calories than loosing so do you think i should cut down on meals?
Thanks
Just answered your other comment and that is exactly what I was thinking. Bethany
Hi there,
I four weeks into insanity (it is my second time doing it, although i last did it last summertime). I have missed a few days of insanity and i have not seen any weight loss. I was wondering if i should just forget insanity and go to T25 for a change up? I do want to build muscle as well as loose weight too.
What is your thoughts?
Thanks
Hi Vinay, I would take a closer look at your diet. Are you following the Insanity nutrition plan? Bethany
Hi,
I did the Insanity last year for 50 days but i had an accident and i stopped. It was amazing! Before the accident i was feeling a strong pain on top of my knee. I read something about “jumpers knee” like a normal pain because of cross fit. I tried the T25 but I don’t feel the same, the Insanity is like a drug. I want to make sure that the knee pain is normal, in case i feel it one more time, for this type of training to “dig deeper” again.
Thanks
Hi Mauro, Pain is never good nor would I call it normal. Did you consult a doctor for evaluation? From my personal experience the pain like you are describing works like this, you have pain during exercise, you work through pain, pain becomes constant, continue and then the pain begins to interfere with workouts. The earlier you rest and heal the quicker the injury would likely heal. Once you heal up, try and figure out what caused the pain. My advice, consult a doctor or sports therapist and get to the bottom of what is causing the pain and fix that. Bethany
I’m just finishing up Insanity, but because I really don’t like cooking, I didn’t exactly follow the food plan. I ate healthily, and did the 5 meals a day (most days), but not with the suggested diet plan. That’s surely the reason why I feel like Insanity hasn’t done anything to help me lose weight, even though I’ve given it my all. I’m still at 70kg, just like I was when I started. I noticed a little toning up, so it wasn’t for nothing. Still, I had expected more (even though, I know, my own fault for not following the diet plan).
Would you recommend another bout of Insanity (even though I really hate the 1 hour long training and have to fight to keep motivated) or T25, or maybe another workout? I read about the 21 Day Fix, but again, it has this portioned eating and what – to me – feels like a lot of standing in the kitchen. I wouldn’t mind cooking twice a week for three days in advance. Cooking half a cup of broccoli every day just to keep with the diet plan just seems like a massive waste of energy and time. Does the T25 have a different diet plan, maybe one that involves less cooking?
Thank you very much for offering your help! :)
Hi Jules, The T25 day meal plan is different, all recipes are five ingredients or less. From reading your comment, it sounds like meal prepping and planning would be best four you. On Sundays for instance, I cook my meals for lunches for the week and slice up vegetables as snacks. You could do the same type of meal prep, but just prep all your meals. Once you get a process down it is a very helpful way to save time. Get that diet cleaned up and you’ll get results with the programs, Bethany
“Five ingredients or less” sounds like my dream meal plan! And prepping I can do. :D I guess it’s really all about routine. Once I have a routine, it’ll be easier to follow those meal plans.
Thank you so much for your help! :)
You’re welcome! Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I’m 43 yrs old, 136lbs and my goal is to maintain my weight and get toned.
I do have a heart condition that I cannot overexert myself but I was able to build up my strength over the course of 3 years and now I am doing T25 4-5 times a day with success. I do switch back and forth between Shaun T and the modifier though, just to keep my heart rate stable.
I just finished with the beta set and about to start the gamma.
I was wondering what I can do after I’m done with gamma?
I cannot do intense workouts due to my condition and I’m finding that 25-30 minutes of working out is just perfect for me.
Would it be possible to follow Insanity but lightly? If not, are there other systems that I can follow besides Insanity?
Thanks!
Hi Sara, The 21 Day Fix has workouts in that time frame that I think you you could do and benefit from. There is no real modifier in the original Insanity which might make it difficult to modify. Bethany
Hiya
I’m 20 years old. Am overweight at 177 pounds. I am 5 ft 4. I have always struggled with losing weight and have put on 2 stone in the past 8 months or so I really would love to buy and use the T25 workout as looks amazing my only bug bear is that even though their is a modifier during the workouts will I actually be able to carry out the exercise moves themselves? I have done many Zumba training 1 hour speed workouts in the past however do not have much muscle at all. I just don’t want to pay for something I might not be able to actually do.
Thanks
HI Jessica, It is always best to consult with a doctor if you have concerns. The modifier is low-impact and low-intensity in T25 so I don’t think you should have any problems. Bethany
hi,ive just started the insanity …so far so good,all i want is a great body *is this the best one for that *
also is it normal to have pains in your legs after a workout
thank you
Hi Mark, You should not have pain, soreness yes. Bethany
Hey Bethany,
I weigh 77 kg. Im looking to get to 80 kg at the moment by putting on muscle in the gym. I already have a toned athletic body and my energy levels are very high but I am looking to do a program to keep my body fat % down while I am bulking up in the gym. I just don’t want to get a belly while I am bulking up. What I am worried about is that if i do the t25 program I will find it difficult to put on the added muscle I am looking for because it will slash my calories. Obviously I will have to up my calorie intake if I want to build new muscle but I want to use the t25 to stop me getting fat while I am doing this. Do you think I can still put on the muscle by gyming while also and staying lean by doing t25 on the days in between. Thanks
Hi Mark, Yes, you could do T25 as your cardio to stay lean while hitting the iron at the gym. Bethany
Hi i am looking into buying the focus T25 but i am worried i will bulk up. Does this work out bulk women up? i would like to look slimer and toned. Just asking if this work out would be good for that.
Hi Kimberly, No it is not going to bulk you orany other women up. It is extremely hard for women to put on muscle like men. And, the strength training that is involved in T25 is more circuit based more toning and leaning out. Bethany
im doing “insanity max 30” what do you recommend to do. Start with “focus t25” or do the first insanity.
or another program?
Hi Blanca, If you are having troubles keeping up with the modifier in MAX:30 I would recommend switching to T25. Bethany
Hi Bethany I’m looking for advice on using t25/insanity. I’m 27, 5’9″ and 245. My goal is to reach 160 (pre baby weight, 2 kids under my belt and I’m done having them). I’m ready to start a whole new chapter in my life. I’ve had success with weight loss (lost 80 pounds after first baby but the exercise that i was doing isn’t an option anymore). Here’s what I want: A program that will help me lose the weight and tighten up my “I’ve had 2 babies streached tummy skin”, help teach me to eat healthy (not just diet eating), and set me up to maintain my body after I’ve reached my target. Most importantly I don’t want to have to keep doing the program for the rest of my life just to maintain. I want to maintain with healthy eating, walking (work up to running), playing with the kids and about 3 trips to the gym per week. My question: Are these programs realistic for my goals? (I’m not looking to get ripped, just flat tummy, toned limbs.) Thanks Bethany for your thoughts!
Hi Becky, I would take a look at the 21 Day Fix program, I have review on this site. It is a good program for teaching healthy eating habits and it has you develop the habit of daily exercise with daily 30 minute workouts. Bethany
Hi Bethany I want to get fit and get some muscle shape back after alot of years not training I’m got over weight but my muscle has long gone will I get muscle shape with Fucus T25 as I have a busy job and a 18 month old and another on the way so time is an issue. Cheers
Hi Ed, Yes, just be sure to follow the diet for best results. Bethany
Hey Bethany! I’m trying to find an effective and long-lasting work out program with quick visible results (aren’t we all?!). I ready through some of your Q&As and it looks like you recommend the T25 over Insanity almost every time. I’m hesitant because it is a longer program and I don’t know if I’ll actually commit to it. I want to, but… life happens. Would it be crazy to start with Insanity? I’m hoping to lose about 40lbs overall, but I don’t expect that to happen in a couple months. How soon will I start seeing results from T25? Which diet plan is better?
Hi Crystal, T25 in my opinion is more suitable for beginner’s. Insanity is more for intermediates/advanced.
Bethany
ok so i just got the instanity and the T25 delivered, im 25 years of age and i and not in good shape. im slim but i get tired too quick. i wanna lose my belly and lovehandle fat which one will help me do it faster?
Hi William, I would start with T25, it will get you in better shape to conquer Insanity. Bethany
Hi I just want to lose weight!! Want to get my confidence back, no to fussed about definition just want to lose my roles and boobs!! What program would you suggest?? Thank you.
Hi Craig, I would recommend T25 if you are just beginning. Bethany
Thanks for all the great info! Recently I have switched birth control methods, and in doing so have gained about 10-15 pounds in the last few months. I am active and am in the gym doing weights and cardio 4-5x a week, and eat a balanced diet. In fact, I have started working out harder and controlling my diet even more since I have noticed the scale creeping up. Most of the weight is collecting in my abdomen region, which I have never gained weight in before. I am thinking that a lot of it has to do with water retention and hormone imbalance, so I am looking for a program to thin out on! However I am unsure if either of these would make a difference for me, as heavy weight training in the past few months has not been working in my favor. Help!!
Hi Meghan, You talked a lot about your workouts, but how is your diet? Bethany
Hi! I started working out a month ago and been walking around 7-11 miles per day throughout the whole day. I’m looking to strengthen and tighten up my core…as background I’m 32y/o, 5’8″ and was 236lbs when I started a month ago so not in the best shape. I want to lose and tone up but not too fast to where my body and abdomen is just hanging loose cause the skin isn’t shrinking with my weight. I have both T25 and Insanity.
Thanks for any advice
Ben
Hi Ben, If you have both why not try each for a week and then make decision on one and stick with that program for it’s entirety. Bethany