Disclosure: this page may include affiliate links which may earn me a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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.
Bethany,
This site has done a fantastic job explaining the differences between some programs I have considered. I have only just started Leslie Sansone’s walking program, have a 2 month old baby and 3 other kids at home, so time is crunched. You mentioned T25, which sounds like it would really be hard for me but also something that I can work towards tackling. But in your comparison of T25 to Insanity, you list that T25 is not for weight loss. But I have about 40-50 lbs to lose. I just don’t know if I would become discouraged with Insanity. Any advice?
Rebecca
Hi Rebecca, sorry for the confusion, the chart is meant to show which program is better for goals as it is now. I’m going to change it, to make it clearer. You will lose weight with T25 and it sounds like the right program for you. Hope that helps, Bethany
I am 50 and my girlfriend is 49. We both work in healthcare so we have some lower back injuries. doing strength training three times a week. Which of these workout would suit us?
Hi Tim, be sure to check with your doctor, before beginning any new program. With that said, if you have any type of chronic or easy to flare up injury do NOT try Insanity. For either program you should be 100% injury free before beginning, but I would suggest T25 and if any of the moves bother you follow the less intense modified move. -Bethany
Hello, I would like to know the difference between t25 and p90x3. I currently run six days a week and weight train three. I desperately need a change of scenery. I have t25 but have trouble keeping up with the constant change of position. Thanks.
HI Kristie, I have not done any of the P90X3 workouts or have I looked at the schedule. I believe P90X3 is three resistance training workouts a week and 3 cardio style workouts, I’ll try to do an in depth review in the future. -Nethany
Thanks, I’ll be watching for it.
Hi, I am a 29 years old male. I am about 90 kg. I really want to lose at least 10-15 kg. I wanted to know if T25 is ok for me if I extend it to 12 weeks and add steady running to it.
Thank you
HI Mistey, yes you can extend T25 for as long as you want. Yes, it is okay to also to add in running workouts. I would recommend that you split T25 and running apart from each other, like running in the a.m. and T25 in the p.m. or vice versa.
Hi, I can only exercise at 5am due to other commitments, I also find it hard to eat before this morning workout. What will you recommend for me doing the T25, mornings fine, no eating ok?
Hi Natalie, if you’re finding it hard to eat that early, then workout on an empty stomach – it’s 100% fine. However if at any point you feel lightheaded or extremely fatigued, you can try to eat an apple or something else small before your workout to give you some fuel. I hope this helps :)
Hey Bethany, this was very helpful info as I’ve been trying to decide which of these programs to buy. I am usually very active but as of the last 2 years kind of fell off the bandwagon. I was curious to know whether you’ve used a HRM when you do these workouts and could share average calorie burns for Insanity and T25.
Thanks for your time and input,
Laura
Hi Laura, great question. I would burn between 350-500 calories with the Insnaity workouts according to my bodybugg. Unfortunately, my Bugg stopped working and before my T25 package arrived. -Bethany
Hey I did insanity before and it worked well for me I lost about 35 pounds and had some nice abs. Since then I have gained about ten pounds because I have been slacking lately. I’m looking to get back into great shape and even more cut then before. Should I try the t25 or just do the insanity again?
Hi Marcus, instead of spending money on another program, I would just do Insanity again if it worked for you and you liked it. If you hated doing the actual program, then absolutely try Focus T25. Either program will get you ripped with Insanity focusing more on a strong core and upper body with Focus T25 sculpting definition from head to toe (including legs). Hope this helps!
Hi, as I’m sure you know I can’t decide which one to buy insanity or t25. I weigh 210 and am 6.1. I have never really worked out in my life except for the occasional walk on the trail and swimming but I NEED TO GET IN SHAPE. I plan to enlist in the Air Force over the summer and want to become a battlefield airman. This said I need to be able to run a good distance nonstop for alloted time, push ups sit ups pull ups. I’m sure it would be easier to do just those, but I’m not disciplined and someone was in front of me telling me what to do I think I would do just that. I will sign up this June and probobly leave for boot camp sometime next summer so I need to step up my game here if I want to pass the past test there. Which one do you think will help lose weight and gain some sort of strength in my arms so I can actually do a pull up
Thank you, Nick
Hi Nick, I think Insanity would be the better program for you if you’re looking for someone to get in your face and tell you what to do. Shaun T definitely has that drill sergeant type character going on for this one. Plus, it’s a lot of core and upper body work in it. It is also longer in length each day, which will help you build endurance for long distance running. It is also tough enough, so you can easily handle boot camp when the time comes.
That being said, T25 would also help you improve your overall athletic abilities – if you paired that with a daily run in the afternoon, you would really be all set. Ultimately, it’s up to you. T25 is easier to tone down if you’re completely out of shape, while Insanity is a bit tougher. T25 also shapes you more overall, while Insanity is more core and upper body based. I hope this helps clarify some things, but if you do have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Good luck!
Hi there! I loved reading your comparison on T25 vs Insanity. I have been going back and fourth on which one to purchase and I just cannot make a definitive decision. I am a runner, I also eat pretty clean. I have come to a plateau and I want to add something to my routine that will help me loss the last 5-10 pounds and get rid of my mid section (upper and lower abs) that I cannot seem to get rid of. I also want to start building some muscle (hopefully that will help with the last little bit of fat that I want to lose too). I am just starting out, do you think it would be better to start with T25 or just jump into Insanity? I will continue my running with which ever one I choose, I just don’t want to over do it. I need help deciding on which program to invest on :) Thanks in advance!
Hi Heather, for people that want to start or continue a running program I always advise T25. You can do T25 in the morning and running at night or vice versa. Insanity is just too intense to run and do at the same time, it would likely lead to over-training putting you at an increase risk of injury. -Bethany
I’m 55 years old but I have been active all of my adult life. I have been running for 30 years 15-20 miles a week, swimming in the summer months, and excersising in the gym. I recently had knee surgery. I can’t run like I used to but I want to maintain active at the same level. I’ve been doing insanity 5 days a week for 2 months and have seen only little results. I haven’t lost weight but feel like I can do more upper body exercises but I’m a little concerned about all the high jumps. My main question is should I continue with insanity and hang in there or should I purchase T25. Of course, I like the 25 mns from T25 but I also need to be challenged. My goal is also to be toner overall and to loss maybe 5 lbs. Will I get these results with insanity or T25? Please let me know you opinion.
Hi Linda, yes you can lose the five pounds with T25 or Insanity. It is said the last five pounds are the hardest to lose and it looks like you are there. T25 is not as hard on the knees just fyi. What i think you need to do is really look at your diet and see if that might be holding you back. -Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I’m about to finish my 2nd full round of Insanity. I’ve lost 36 pounds but would like to lose about 30 more by the end of this year. I’m 6-1 and currently weigh 250 pounds (I used to be a college football player and power lifter but just want to slim down now). I’m obviously able to keep up better in the second round of Insanity than I did during the first but still feel I can make get better at it. My question is that Insanity is getting stale mentally for me and I would really like to try T-25 but worry about its effectiveness after two full rounds of Insanity. Do you think T-25 would be a step down for me? Thanks for your help.
Mike
Hi Mike, yeah that is a tough one. Another option is taking a look at the Insanity:the Asylum workouts. These workouts are intended for Insanity graduates. With your athletic background you should enjoy the workouts as they are made to better athletic performance in different sports. -Bethany
Hi Bethany! I lost all the weight I wanted doing Insanity. I am at about 115 lbs right now. I really need to tone up though. Would FocusT25 help me do that?
Hi KT, T25 should help you tone as it includes circuit based weight training workouts. You may also want to consider the additional gamma phase workouts that are sold separately as this phase is aimed at muscle toning directly. -Bethany
Would I be able to start with the second phase instead of the first since I’ve done Insanity before? Or would it be okay to do the Gamma straight?
Hi KT, you could start with the second phase if you wanted and then on to the gamma phase, but honestly, the first phase will also help you tighten up. It is during the first week that I really started noticing my thighs getting real muscle definition, as well as my back – and that was all without any weights. It’s up to you, but I wouldn’t throw the first phase aside just yet…you may just be surprised at how much it tones you up. Hope this helps, but if you do have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Good luck!
Just noticed your BBL & Focus T25 Hybrid Schedule! On the whole, I would like to get toned (especially tummy, back, arms, butt)
Should I do this then?
Go for it! -Bethany
Hello,
I am tryiing to decide between Focus25 and Insanity. I am 37 yrs old. I need to lose 40-50lbs. I am 6’2” 270. Despite being overweight right now, I am pretty able-bodied. I have been doing simple weight training now for about a month. Haven’t lost much weight yet.
I am wondering if Focus25 is the way to start and then graduate to Insanity. I was told by someone that I will drop weight on Focus25, but since I am in need of extreme weight loss, Insanity may be the way to go.. Not sure what to do.
Thank you.
Hi Mathew, I agree with the person who told you to start with T25. After T25 you will be in a much better position to tackle the Insanity workouts. -Bethany
Hi there,
I came across this article and would like your opinion on if one or either of these workout programs are for me. I am fairly fit and am currently on day 40 of P90x3 and have worked out off and on my whole life. Since having my second child two years ago I haven’t been in as great of shape and have about 10 pounds to lose, but I still workout consistently and have done 30 Day Shred, Ripped in 30 and other similar programs with great results over the years.
My problem is that all of the upper body work in P90x3 has caused tendonitis in my shoulder and elbow and some wrist issues. In addition to that I don’t think P90x is helping my achieve optimal results for my goals. I have not lost much weight at all, but have lost some inches and I do see increased muscle definition. I really want to slim down more than anything and, although the inches are nice, I know I need to trim down at least 10 pounds to be the size/shape I want, even with muscle.
My question is whether these programs have intense upper body shoulder/wrist exercise and if so, could I modify or skip them and still get a good workout? As of right now I can’t plank longer than about 30-45 seconds because of my wrist and push ups are iffy. Is it worth it for me to try one of these workouts? Is one better than the other for someone in my situation?
Hi Amber, I think you should be okay with T25 or Insanity. Of the two programs Insanity would likely be harder on the wrist as there are more movements having you in the push-up/plank position. -Bethany
Hi, I want to get stronger and loose a little bit of extra fat. I am 15 so I know I I have plenty of time until I actually need to work out but i want a head start. I have done 2 1/2 weeks of T25 and returned it not because i gave up but didn’t want to pay all the money. For my birthday im going to get a workout program so I’m wondering if I should get Imsanity or T25. I found T25 pretty easy when it came to the endurance since I do track and cross country. I don’t have much time because of school but if needed I can make some. Please tell me what you recommend. Thank you!
HI John, sorry I can’t give advice to those under 18 years of age. -Bethany
Hey, I am a 22 yr old female I have always been in decent shape and considered myself “fit” but 1 1/2 years ago I was in a serious car accident and gained 20 lbs I just can’t seem to lose. I’ve had rotator cuff surgery but that’s not too much of an issue. I have herniated and bulging disks in my back. The only one that seems to kill me is my L5/S1 with sciatica. I’ve tried insanity but didn’t last more then 10 minutes cause of the high impact style. I seen the t25 and I’m wondering if I started with the low impact modifications if I would still get results.
Hi Debra, yes, you will get results with the modified moves in T25, it sounds like that would be a great place for you to start. -Bethany
Hi!
I have gained a lot of weight over the period of six years. I used to work out and jog 5 times a week. But with the massive weight I have put on, its not easy to go for extreme exercise. Though I still believe I can manage to build my stamina with time. Do you suggest I start with Insanity or T25? Thanks!
Hi Nudrrat, I would start with T25. Then when you have dropped some weight and built your cardiovascular stamina you will be able to conquer Insanity. -Bethany
Hello,
So I am 20 and I weigh 104 and I am 4’11 I have completed insanity twice and got amazing results and I am very petite, I own Insanity Asylum as well as Focus T25 and I also am a cheerleader on the side so I practice on the side doing tumbling, stunts, and focus on flexibility. However, I want more muscle I look very slim and my cardio is pretty good, I am able to do all work outs but I am not sure which one to do anymore. I really want to build more muscle and I am still unsatisfied with my results. I do eat healthy when I can but when my budget suffers so does my diet. Any suggestions on which program I should do? Should I do a hybrid. I also use dumbbells and do some weight training before I do insanity or T25 but like I said I do not know which one to keep doing!
Hi Michelle, have you ever considered P90X? It has lots of bodyweight exercises and is weight training 3 times a week, so you’ll build the muscle and build upon your current athletism. -Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I am 36 years old guy and on my 4th round of P90X, it helped me to reduce around 20 pounds and 8% of body fat. I am now at 14% body fat but have been around that number for the last 3 or 4 months, so now I am thinking it is time for me to change to a different program, would you recommend T-25 or insanity? My goal is to get ripped, Looking for my 6-pack.
What would you recommend?
Thanks
Hi Charly – congratulations on your progress so far – that’s great! It’s normal to hit a plateau when you’ve done the same program for so long, so it’s great that you realized and are ready to try something new. For your next adventure, I definitely would suggest Insanity. I think you’ll really love it and love the results you’ll get from it. Hope this helps – good luck! You should be seeing your 6-pack in no time :)
Thanks so much for your quick response Bethany, I will try Insanity as you suggested, and keep eating healthy, Some people say I am ok already, other say I can not get below 14% , well I say that I will not stop trying as far as I am healthy enough to workout.
Hi Bethany!
Thanks for the article and all your knowledge. This will be my first time trying one of the Beachbody programs and I’m thinking about starting with T25. I myself am 30 yrs. old 5’8″ about 168lbs and feel I’m in decent shape. I go to the gym about 3-4 times a week doing a mix of running and light to moderate weightlifting, however, I’m ready to try something different as I don’t see the results I’m looking for. I’m slim but still have areas I want to lose fat in (stomach, chest) and tone up/get total body definition, especially abs. My goal is to have a slim but muscular look – more Zac Efron/Chris Evans less Arnold Schwarzenegger in the Terminator Days :)
Given my current level of exercise do you think T25 alone would be enough as a starting point or do you recommend another program? Any objection to throwing in some additional running during the week with T25 (e.g. T25 mornings/running afternoons) or is that overkill?
Thanks so much!
Hi Rodgrigo. Congratulations on your decision to try out a Beachbody program – I think you’re going to like it. With everything you’ve said, I do think T25 would be a great choice for you. It will slim you down and define you without you looking like the hulk :) I would try out T25 for a week, see how you feel, and then decide if you want to run in the afternoon after working out in the morning. As long as you don’t run for more than a 1/2 hour in addition to the workout for the day, you should be good, but you just may feel like you’re getting enough of a workout each day from Focus T25 alone. Good luck – if you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.