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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 never tried a workout video before and are looking to start all I really care about are 3 things getting abs losing my man boobs and improve my vertical jumping ability which program would you recommend for me? also all am already in okay shape.
Hi Mason, I would recommend beginning with Focus T25. Even though you are in okay shape, Insaniyt is probably a little too intense for you at this point. -Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I run 5k’s and in sept. I am running my first half marathon. I run between 10 and 12 miles a week’s and that is about the only exercise I get, maybe a occasional bike ride or walk. I am 47, 5″4′ 145lbs. I would like to build up my endurance mostly, but tone and lose weight also. Do you think either one of these programs would benefit me and if so which one?
Thanks
Hi Kris, I would definitely opt for Insanity. Although both workouts will help you lose weight and tone up, the longer workouts in Insanity are better if you’re looking to increase your endurance. I hope this helps, but if you do have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Congrats on running your first half marathon this September – that is a HUGE achievement you should be really proud of :) Good luck!
Hi Bethany,
Thank you for providing the information on the two workouts. I’m 5 foot 2 and around 116 pounds. Which was hard to achieve as I’ve had to put a lot of work to get to this size. I am not big now, but due to genetics, I would like to loose a little more weight (6-7 pounds) and cut out more fat (esp around tummy and arms).
I’ve been doing turbofire 5 times a week (just the HIIT 20/25 workouts alternated with the 30min cardio), plus 4 pilates/strength classes per week (45 mins), and just started adding a les mills body attack class (55min) once per week. I give my body 1 day of rest a week.
I would like to now switch up my turbofire workouts to either insanity or t25. Which would you recommend? I’m drawn towards the t25 due to time, but would like good results, ideally drop 6-7 more pounds and lose some more inches off the waist in the next 2 months. I love food too much to cut back too much, but happy to cut back a little more if needed.
Thanks!
HI Emma, I think that the T25 workouts are better to mix in with other workouts. Hopefully, the change up will help you lose those pesky last pounds, the hardest ones. -Bethany
Hi. I just had a baby three weeks ago and went from being athletic 130 pounds to 163 pounds now. I need to lose the weight but haven’t worked out in eight months. Which program would work best for me t25 or insanity?
Hi Marissa, Congratulations on your new addition! You really need to talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program – you just had a baby 21 days ago…your body is still adjusting :) Both of these programs are intense, so depending on your activity level prior to working out, you need to ease your way back in to working out – either starting off really slow or just slow. Plus, depending on whether or not you’re breastfeeding, you will also make sure to eat the right amount of calories and stay super hydrated. And if you gave birth via c-section or natural will all have an impact on when and how intense of activity you can do. I would suggest following T25 after you get your doctor’s okay, but they may want you to wait at least six weeks before starting up again. Check with them first – you don’t want to permanently injure yourself in an attempt to get rid of the baby weight. Good luck!
After you get y
I am interested in T25 and found a video which showed 3 versions of the workouts which I really liked because I am out of shape. Mostly due to health issues and working my way back. If I order the T25 does it show all 3 of these versions? I can’t find an answer to this anywhere. Thanks
Hi Trish, not sure what you mean by three versions of the workout. There are three phases to the workout program, which could be what you’re thinking of. They are the alpha, beta, and gamma phases. Each phase does have someone who does a less intense, low impact version of every move, so if you’re out of shape or have bad knees, you can watch her and make any necessary adjustments. My advice would just be to do the best you can and pause the workout anytime you’re feeling too out of breath – or you can always just march it out if things are moving too fast for you. I hope this helps. T25 is an awesome workout that will get you great results regardless of your current fitness level. :)
In your comparison at the top of the page you state that T25 does 5 workouts per week, in reality it is 6 (2 on Friday) or even 7 if you include the stretching on Sunday. Just thought it was an unfair comparison. I am not trying to be ugly. I really enjoy your site. I just think people may be disappointed when they get it home and realize it is more than they thought.
Hi Jamie, thanks for the comment. The second workout on Friday is optional as is the stretch day. IF you don’t feel like doing them, you don’t have to.
Hey Bethany, I’m 5’4″ and 122 lbs and did the insanity workout for 40 days straight earlier this year. I stopped on day 40 because my knees hurt quite a bit, and have been taking a break from exercise since then (probably a month ago). I’m looking to get back into exercising and was wondering if I should get back into Insanity or try the T25. Strangely I didn’t lose much weight with Insanity during the 40 days, nor did I tone up much (didn’t even drop sizes). I don’t really understand cos I was sticking to the exercises, and made generally healthy food choices (although I did still get quite a bit of carbs but I stuck to mostly complex). I’m generally looking to tone up and lose the fat around my thighs and tummy area (as most girls do). So I’m wondering if I’ll even get any visible results with T25 since Insanity is supposed to be tougher? Thanks!
Hi Fiano, you might want to give T25 a try. Normally, I would have suggested giving Insanity another try as you already own it and really dial in on your nutrtion, but if you were having knee pain that might not be the best idea. T25 also targetted my thighs, so maybe give T25 a try, again try to follow the diet the best that you can. T25 has simple 5 ingredient meals, so you might want to look at some of them also. -Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I was just wondering which program you would suggest for someone who has all ready lost a considerable amount of weight but does still want to shed pounds but definitely tone the body. I am having a hard time deciding between the two programs and could make time for either of them so that’s not a factor. I just was wondering which one would be more leaning towards getting those sculpted muscles while still burning a ton of calories. Thank you!
Hi Whitney, I think you would benefit from either program. I would suggest doing the program you think looks like it would motivate you the most. Shaun T is more drill sargeant tough in Insanity and in Foucs T25 he is encouraging and encourages you to focus and get the most from the workout.
Hello,
Thank you for the efforts and advice it is so helpful.
I did insanity about 5 months ago, I was a beginner and it was difficult for me but I’m so glade that i finished it and proud of my self, the results also was awesome.
Then I finished only one month of Brazilian butt lift but did’t complete it :S
my biggest problem areas is that i have (big legs + big arms and not good shaped booty).. =(
I/m confused what to choose T25 or BBL!!!! for best results and to get rid of the rest 10 kg that i hold.
I am 159 cm , 67.5 kg and I wish to be 54 kg with toned up body.
Please help.. thank you <3
SARA
Hi Sara, since you already have BBL I would go with that one. If you follow the combination schedule for the entire two month period it should get you to where you want to be. -Bethany
So glad I found this review comparing the two! I have both, but I’ve only done one or 2 insanity DVDs and I just got T25. I’m at day 3 only. I’m in pretty decent shape. I usually run 3-4 miles twice a week, lift some weights, do abs, and squats. So I ditched that routine for T25 since it’s only 25 min long a day. Do you think I’m burning more calories w/ T25 or w/ my previous routine? The whole concept is that the 25 min is so intense it burns more calories for longer right? But does my longer less intense run plus the strength training actually burn more??
I’m trying to lose that last 5 lbs for the beach!
Hi Diana, you will definitely burn more calories with T25’s focused interval training, which should easily get you losing your last five pounds and toning up to give you a perfect beach body. Just be sure to eat a really clean diet and keep track of your daily calorie intake as those last five pounds are often the most difficult to get rid of. Hope that helps!
Hi,
I just started T25, 10 days ago. I found that Alpha cardio and total body circuit are my favorites. Do you think if I just alternated these, I would still see results? Or do you think that it’s important to alternate all of the videos in the series? Thank you for your input
Hi Amy, it is important to alternate all of the videos in the program to get the best results. It is the combination of the movements and cardio provided that is going to maximize fat loss and sculpt your muscles. You would see results just alternating those two workouts, but you would not get real results. You would end up overtraining those muscles and plateauing. Hope that helps :)
Hi, I’m a 20 year old guy weighing about 230 pounds. I’m really active in sports, however I have a big body where my stomach and glutes are way to big. I have tried insanity previously, but gave up on it due to lack of commitment and failure to make time for it. I would have some days where I would try to avoid doing the workouts. Now this June, my soccer season is going to start and I want to be on the best shape of my life. I no longer want to be the biggest guy on the team. I feel as if my weight is holding me back on my abilities to excel in the sport. I just want to know what would be a better option for me in a short time frame to get my body in the best shape either insanity or T25. I want to be able to run faster, and be a lot quicker overall.
Thanks for the help
Hi Steven, honestly if you think you can stick with it this time, I think Insanity would be the way to go to get you to where you want to be by June. However if you’re having trouble with the length of time the workouts are each day, then definitely go for T25. No workout is worth trying to do if you know you’re not going to be able to stick with it for one reason or another. Hope this helps – good luck!
Hello! I have done insanity since July of last year and quickly fell in love. I lost almost 90lbs and felt great. I am a20 year old male who goes to college and works what you could call full time(I’m an RA ). It was super easy for me to work the first months workouts into my schedule but now that the workouts are an hour long it’s tough. I find myself getting so tired and just not motivated to trudge through the hour. I’m 170lbs now and would like to get down to 155lbs. I am so on the fence about T25.
HI Kameron, sounds like you are busy! You could repeat month 1 of Insanity if you can’t fit in the longer month 2 workouts. Or, you could give T25 a try too. -Bethany
Hi Bethany! I’ve spent the past few days researching Insanity because I want to get back in shape, but then my friend mentioned T25. I’m 20 years old and gained some weight when I started college last year, so my main focus would be losing around 20 pounds and toning up my arms a little. I’m leaning more towards T25 since the workouts are shorter and I’m a full time student, but I’m worried that it won’t give me the same results that Insanity would. Should I suck it up and get Insanity, or go with T25? Would I start to see results with T25 by the time May rolls around? Thanks!
Hi Nicole, I also think T25 would be the better choice for you. And, yes you will see results by May as long as you follow the workouts and focus on your diet. Will you lose 20 pounds by May no, but you will be on your way. -Bethany
Hello just started t25 after about two months of eating healthier and weight training bench pressing curling and crunches I went from a 36 to 33 in waist 10 years ago I was in insane shape ran ten miles a day and worked with weights everyday was 157 lbs 3% fat benching three sets of 225 now I’m 200 outta shape smoked ciggs quit tho and currently work construction I eat a salad everyday apple banana turkey sand which protein bars then chicken or steak with mashed potatoes and corn t25 is tough and fun my question is should I maintain those eating habits or am I doing it all wrong lol… Thank you for your help
Hi Zach, your diet looks good for the most part. I would caution against both potatoes and corn for dinner as they are both complex carbohydrates. A better option would be for instance a baked potato and two cups of steam broccoli or another vegetable. Just tstick with it and you will hit your goals. -Bethany
I have been suffering sciatica pain for the last 18 months. I have had an MRI and it did not show degenerative issues, just bulging. Is T25 recommended for me or should I stick to walking til the pain goes away before building muscle?
Hi Rob, if you are still having pain do not try T25 yet, please wait till you feel 100%. It is not worth worsening your injury. And, be sure to check with your doctor before beginning. -Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I’m 30 years old and weigh 135lbs. I have never really worked out in my life. My fiancé and I want to start working out. I do not want to lose any weight. I just want to get really toned, my fiancé want to lose weight. Which is best for us, T25 or Insanity?
Hi Michelle, sounds like you are pretty new. I would start with T25. -Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I am going into the national guard and I am shipping out on April 22nd. I would like to pass my pt test at my next drill before I ship off for basic. I am in relatively decent shape already and I have been eating healthy for the past two weeks straight. So here’s my question, I don’t have the time to complete either workout before my next drill so which one will give me the best results in the next 5 weeks.
Thanks, Mark
Hi Mark, I think Insanity would be the better of the two for you, since the workouts are longer (which will help build up your endurance) and they feature lots of core and push-up style moves, which will all be useful for your pt test. I hope this helps – good luck!
Hello Bethany,
Thank you so much for such great information! I am 32yrs old, have 4 children and have never worked out in my life. My youngest is now 4 years old so the excuse of “I just had a baby” is not working anymore:)
My aunt recently passed away due to heart problems and being over weight was not in her favor either. This has motivated me to become healthier. I want to lose around 50 pounds so I know I need to find a work out plan. I have started eating right and need a good plan to keep it up.
Everyone keeps telling me to get Insanity if I want REAL results. My question is should I jump right into Insanity even though I have never worked out before (I dont want to kill myself) or should I try T25 first (I dont want to waste time and money either)? Thanks again:)
Hi Jessica, I would highly recommend T25 to start. You will get REAL results with T25 too! Honestly, as a beginner never working out before Insanity is not a good option. T25 focuses more on exercise form teaching you how to exercise right and not risk injury. T25 also has modifier moves that you can follow when the going gets tough. -Bethany
I’m 21 years old 5’2″ and weigh about 138lbs. I’ve been working out for about 2 months I was doing the p90 (not the X) because i needed something easier to start with since I have trouble breathing due to my asthma, but i was going into past 60 days and my results started to fade So. I just started doing T25 and i’m on my second day. I’ve been trying to keep up with the workout, but at times even the modified moves are quick so i end up missing like 10seconds at a time maybe about 2 mins overall. I have a few questions 1) I’m unable to maintain the workout and tighten my core at the same time is that going to affect my results? 2) As well as theoretically if a person were to do modified workouts for about 1-2 weeks how does that vary from the results they would see doing the non-modified? 3) Doing modified for when you get tired + Shaun’s speed will that still give you good results? I know with other workouts they say as long as your trying to do as much as you can you will see results even if your not going at the speed as others, but your going at the most you can do.
Hi Aisha, it’s 100% okay if you can’t keep up with the workouts in the beginning. Most of us are like that unless we’ve been regularly exercising. Don’t worry if you can’t tighten your core and maintain the workout…as time goes on, you will be amazed with how much progress you’ll make from week to week. There is only an issue with you not getting as good results if you weren’t being challenged by the moves – modified or not. When you’re not in as good of shape as someone more athletic and you can’t perform the moves at the same intensity as they can, you will not be burning any less calories than they will, because for you, those modified moves are equal in intensity to what someone in better shape who is doing the moves at full force. You are working your body just as intensely as they are. The good news is that as you become more in shape, you will be able to perform the moves at the same rate as the videos. Don’t worry if you can’t to begin with. Remember that getting in shape is not a race – it’s a do-it-at-your-own-pace to get the best results. I hope this helps – good luck!
Yes it helped! Also made me feel a lot better too, since everything hurts from working out when i’m not even doing the full force workout.
Great article! I am a stay at home mom with 3 kids under 3 including a 2 month old that I’m nursing. I’m looking to lose the baby fat.. I’m 5’10” and 165lbs – I have about 25 lbs to go. I’m not concerned so much with definition as much as weight loss since I’m sure that’ll happen anyway with these programs. I have completed insanity in the past with great results. I feel like I should be doing insanity if I have time that specific day and, if not, do a T25 workout. What do you think? Should I do a hybrid of the 2 workouts or just stick to one routine completely? Also, should the meal plan be modified to accommodate the extra calories needed for breast feeding? Thanks!
Hi Lili, I think the best workout program is the one that you’re going to stick with. So…if you think that the Insanity/T25 hybrid program will work best for you and your very busy schedule, go for it! I think it sounds like the most logical thing for you to do at this time. And like you said, if you’re finding you just don’t have enough time to do your Insanity workout, just replace it with a T25 workout.
As for breastfeeding and diet – you do have to make sure you’re eating enough calories because as you know, you’re already burning 300-500 calories more each day. You can safely lose one pound of fat per week while breastfeeding without compromising your milk supply. Any more than that and you will.
Also, you need to get an okay from your doctor before beginning any type of intense exercise program, because the best type of exercise after giving birth is gradual. I’m worried just jumping in to Insanity may be too much, but again, as long as you get the okay from your doc, you’re good. Here are a few tips for breastfeeding and exercising:
1. Get your milk out before exercising – it will settle your baby and working out when your breasts aren’t full of milk will make it more comfortable for you.
2. Wear a really good sports bra.
3. Drink extra water, at least 2-3 glasses before and during your workout. Dehydration can zap your milk supply.
4. Go slowly – ease back into it. Don’t go full throttle in the beginning.
I hope this helps. Congratulations on your new baby, and good luck!