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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, loving the reviews really helpful but still i some doubt as to the workout I should choose, Im 31 just had my 3rd baby 4 weeks ago, need to lose a bit of weight but not too much as I tend to lose weight a lot quicker than i put it on so I need to tone and build muscle to lose the baby fat but not get the skinny look if you get me :) I also suffer from ulceritive colitis so my diet is changing more towards raw food and vegetarian even though at the moment im still eating meat I have cut out wheat and dairy, can I adapt the meal plans to the kind of diet I have to do? and still get great results? thanks in advance :)
Hi Leanne, Yes, you can adjust any of the diets no problem. -Bethany
Hey Bethany,
I have been working out did p90x twice then insanity 3 rounds already. i have my upper abs but the lower abs are hard to come by. would you suggest t 25 to focus on muscle definition and get my abs or some other program. Thanks
Hi Nick, yeah those lower abs are hard to come by. Not only do you need low body fat, but also enough ab mass. The more advanced T25 Gamma phase might be the best option for you since you have done the other workouts. -Bethany
Hey Bethany, I have a question… I tried Insanity workout last year and I lost so much weight that I couldn’t believe it… but then I got this new job and I have no time as I used to. I just wondered… now My schedule has changed and I have time now for me and more days off. I wan’t to restart my workout, but I don’t know which one should try this time… Insanity or Focus T25, I want at least a toned body with abs and a nice butt. Would you please tell me which one is better… Insanity or Focus T25, I remember my days doing Insanity workout and it took more than 40 min, now there’s this new one which takes 25 min only… sounds great.. plus I don’t like how my body looks like now… I’m skinny but everything flat I think and It’s my fault cuz I’ve been drinking too much and I’ve been eating carbs and no healthy. Please, I really want to know which one is better for me now. have a good one!!!
Hi Ronnie, more and more, I becoming a greater fan of T25. The shorter intense workouts might be just as or more effective as the longer workouts. Studies are showing the short intense workouts allow the body to burn more calories during the day, couple that would a good diet and you’ll be an your way to getting back in shape. -Bethany
Hey Bethany,
I am a 21 year old guy who is about 230 pounds at 5’11”. I’m very active in terms of sports, I play rep soccer over the summer and have started playing hockey over the winter. However, I have a big body and my stomach and butt are wayy too big which in the end affects my performance on the field. Being overweight has caused me to develop patellar tendonitis, and I need to loose weight to reduce most of the pain I’m getting. Now in November, my hockey season is set to start and currently I’m the biggest guy on the team. I was wondering which program I should go with to have the best results either Insanity, T25 or do a hybrid of both. I want to lose a significant amount of weight and reduce the sizes of my stomach and mainly my butt. i also want to have a program that in the end would allow me to run faster, jump higher and allow me to improve on my agility.
Thanks again for your feedback,
Henry C
Hi Henry, I assume you have talked to a doctor about treating the tendonitis. Your first goal, must be getting injury free. Now, if your doctor has cleared you for exercise, I would recommend T25 to start. This way you can lose some of the initial weight which should help your knee pain. -Bethany
Hi Bethany! Thank you so much for this great review/comparison. So, I was hoping you could help me with my decision. I’ve actually completed Insanity twice, completing my final round about a year ago. I had awesome results, I felt great! But like I said, that was a year ago. What happened afterwards? No working out! Surely enough I went back to my old *bad* habits… Eating badly, no physical activity, etc. I miss those days when I felt good about myself, so I tried Focus T25. It was intense but I felt like it wasn’t intense enough? I wasn’t sore like I was after an Insanity workout. Because of this, I just stopped because I felt like I wasn’t progressing. Now I really want to work out, but with my crazy work schedule, I don’t even have time at all (which is the issue which Insanity). What do you think? Maybe I’m just impatient with T25… Does it really have good results? Sorry for the long post. Thanks a lot! :)
Hi Em, what happened to you is common, I suffered from it a little too after bbl. You just have to remember “why” you want it and do it. Soreness is not the best indicator of workout effectiveness. DOMS or delyayed onset of muscle soreness is caused by your muscle cells breaking down and not fully recovering. T25 with proper diet does produce results. Since you have comlpeted Insanity before, maybe if your work schedule allows try to mix in one or two Insanity workouts a week on days that allow. After two rounds of Insanity, I think you are advanced enough to try a hybrid schedule. – Bethany
Hello. Im 44 and a pretty thin woman. Im about 5’6 and weigh 122. Can I do this workout without loosing weight? I want to get toned.
Hi Bren, yes you can do either program and not lose weight. You would want to choose the calorie level to maintain weight, the nutrition guides detail calorie ranges to lose, maintain, or gain weihgt. For someone of your size, that would be anout 1500 calories a day to maintain. -Bethany
Hi there! I see I’m commenting a bit late, but hope you could answer my questions! I am almost finished with Insanity (I have one week left), and I have not lost any weight. I am slim already 5’6″, 125 lbs, but I am what you’d call skinny fat. I eat around 1740 cals to balance the cals burned, and am only looking to lose around 5-10 lbs max, so I didnt expect to lose a lot while doing this program. I, however, am gaining muscle like no ones business and I do NOT like the way it looks!!! I feel so bulky, and I know that it’s impossible to bulk without eating a lot and lifting weights, but I just overall feel so “thick”, from my thighs to my arms. I don’t want an athletic body at all, just a slimmed down less jiggly one.
Would T25 be better for this goal? I will probably need to eat less now, and that’s alright with me, I just want to choose the exercise that helps me meet my goals. I have less body fat now, but someone look and feel larger. I don’t understand how this is possible! Thanks for any help you could provide!
Hi Arae, some people would love to have what you think is a problem. Beachbody just released a new workout program called PiYo it combines Yoga and pilates moves, its a great workout in a totally dofferent way then Insanity or T25. It might be a good change of pace for you, the goal of that program is to build lean strong muscles and define yourself. I’m on day 42 now and can say, my body fat is lower and my muscles do look more defined, I have not added any real muscle mass either. I also add muscle quickly, it is something that you just have to work with, damn genetics. -Bethany
Yeah, I actually liked the first six weeks of insanity but as soon as the second month of exercises hit, my body shape changed a bit and I didn’t like it.. I’m afraid piyo won’t be as much of a challenge for me.
hi i never did any workout in my life i am new to this exercise i need to loose weight should i do insanity or focus t25 ?
Hi Krish, T25 is more suitable for beginner’s because it has a modifier for all the moves. -Bethany
Hi Bethany,
I have been considering the T25 program for quite sometime, however I would like to put on weight rather than lose it. Not looking to pump iron to bulk up but rather stay fit and put on some more weight/build a bit more muscle.
Which program would you recommend? Do either of these program’s cater for gaining weight or are they only designed to help you lose weight?
Thanks
Grant
Ho Grant, you could train with either program and add weight, you will just need to adjust your calories. To gain weihgt, I would recommend multiplying your body weight times 16 for the total amount of calories to eat. And, try to eat one gram of protein per pound of body weight. -Bethany
Hi Bethany Lyn,
I’m in great shape. I love working out. About a year ago I start doing Insanity. I loved it b/c it really got my muscles great definition. I had previously been doing the gym thing, running, and the elliptical, but wasn’t getting great results just staying thin. I will never go back to the gym lol. Anyway after a year of Insanity I’m getting a little bored and want something new. I’ve been considering T25. Do you think that is a good option or is their another workout program you recommend.
Sarah
Hi Sarah, I’m not a gym fan either, never have been. Yes, I think T25 would be a great change up. After a year of Insanity, the change will be great for you. T25 has an advanced phase called Gamma that you might want to take a look at also. -Bethany
Hello Bethany!
I am 19 and weigh 152 pounds. I am not necessarily overweight, but for my age, I don’t have the body I desire to have. I have a lot of stomach fat and would like to tone my legs. I haven’t worked out on a consistent basis in a year, but I am ready to do so again. I have done Insanity workouts in high school before and loved them. I want the whole 60 day workout set but I can’t decide between that or T25 because with my college schedule, T25 would really work the best, but I am afraid I wouldn’t lose enough weight with it. Your advice would be most welcome!
Hi Teanna, if T25 fits into your schedule better, than go with it. The best workout program is one that you are going to be able to stick with. With proper diet you will lose weight with T25. -Bethany
I enjoyed your review. Thank you so much for breaking it down by so many aspects of the training program. Will definitely be reading more of the comparisons!
You’re welcome, Lindsay. -Bethany
First of thank you so much for your blog, I enjoyed reading all the comments.
My husband had an open heart surgery in 2004 at 44, we caught it before the big disaster so no heart attacks and other damages. We have been on the yoyo dieting now for over 15 years. From Seattle Sutton, no carbs, Whole Plant food diet to cleanse. Basically no meat, no carb diet and no oil. Quinoa, Millet and Squarsh, fruit vegetable and nuts are the basic food group some, oh some meat/fish 20% of the time and nutritional/protein drinks.
Well with that being said, we lost weight, we gained it back even with what we eat and yes we neglect exercise as we are too tire with working etc.
Because my husband works 70 hours a week, 5.8 height, weights 208 lbs now 54. what exercise do you recommend for him and I would like to work out with him so we have peer pressure. I love pilaties and yoga. But we can only buy one set of work out program.
Thank you!!
Hi Lily, sounds like T25 would be the better option since you are tight in time and are a beginner. T25 has a modifier to if you can’t keep up to begin. T25 also comes with a diet plan that focuses on a balanced whole food diet. It also contains recipes for meals, all with 5 ingredients which makes cooking pretty simple. You might also want to take a look into the new PiYo at home workout, it combines yoga and pilates, I just wrote what I thought og the program, it should be on the home page of my site. -Bethany
Hi Bethany!
I’m a pretty fit guy. I’m 15 years old 5′ 8″ and I weigh around 145 lbs. I go out and play sports pretty often (ie. basketball, football, soccer) but I don’t go to the gym much. Recently I’ve been doing Mike Chang’s Insane Home Fat Loss and I don’t think it’s working that well. I was wondering which workout would best fit my end goal of losing the last bit of fat on my body and getting a six pack/ more defined body. I haven’t done either but I don’t know if I can keep up with the Insanity workout and I fear that the T25 will be too easy because it’s similar to Insane Home Fat Loss and I wasn’t getting results from that.
Hi Ryan, sorry I can only give advice to those 18 years or older. -Bethany
Hi,
I did Insanity and lost lots of weight. I lost more weight in first 1st month of insanity than in the 2nd month.
I would like to lose more weight (fat).
Would you recommend another round of Insanity or should I do Asylum or T25?
I started doing Asylum and am on the 4th day. I know my body is bcoming stronger with this but I am not sure if I will lose as much weight as Insanity.
Thank you for your feedback.
Hi Ram, I would stick with Asylum instead of ordering another program. Sounds like you are well on your to losing the weight that you want to. Sometimes weight loss does slow down, at this point 1-2 pounds of weight loss is the most that you want, otherwise you could be losing muscle mass. Use the contact form to send me an email if you would like to really dig in. -Bethany
Hi Bethany, I am Chinese, 167cm and 121lbs. For the past 2 months, I tired the JungDaYeon work out, not sure if you know this. Now I am thinking about the T25. Actually someone recommended the Insanity, but I don’t think I can do it,haha~ So I found T25, it will be better?
Hi Jayne, if you don’t think you can keep up with Insanity workouts, T25 would be a better option as there is always a modifier on screen. – Bethany
Thank you Bethany, do you think I need to buy a professional sport shoes? I usually do the firgure Robic without wearing a shoe, will that hurts my knee?
Hi!
So I did the 21 day fix lost 6lbs and now I feel like the workouts are just not enough for me to really loose anymore weight or tone. Im not getting as good as a sweat anymore and my heart rate does not feel like it goes up much.
I have both T25 and insanity (gave up on both a while back lol). I was wonder what work out would be best to finish losing tummy/hip and thigh weight and make them looked ripped haha. I want to keep the FIX meal plan because I like it the best. But anyways I love to use weights thanks to the fix hopefully I can use them in insanity or T25. So would your recommendation be I do the hybrid work out of the two that you offered or just one?
Thank you so much!
-Liz
Hi Liz, congrats on the 21 day fix results. Since you want to continue with the weights I would recommend T25. There is no weight training in the insanity workouts. I would hold off on a hybrid routine until completing T25. – Bethany
hi im 31 and i’m on 250 lb and when i try to make some work out my knees still in pain for two or three days what program recommend for me?
Hi Rocco, I would suggest T25 if you are having knee pain. There is always a modifier on screen if you find any of movements hurt your knees follow the low-impact version of the exercise. – Bethany
Hey am wondering which workout to buy like the insinty or the T25?
I’M 54 kg and I’m 16 year old
I would like to get some abs and some good looking belly
my belly is not flat its kinda medium< sry
but i am having a hard time figuring out which one to get ;/
Hi Celestee, sorry I can only give advice to people over the age 18. It would be a good idea to talk to your doctor. -Bethany
Hi Bethany!
I am 28 years old and 5’4″ and at the beginning of this year I drastically changed my lifestyle. I have a new job and work 6 days a week, on top of being a newlywed. I used to linger at about 132/133 lbs, but I have slowly creeped up to about 139. I am trying so hard to lose these extra 7 lbs again, if not more, but no matter how many calories I count and how many days I run/lift, I can’t seem to do it.
I am trying to decide between insanity and t25. I am incredibly busy, but I have done the first month of insanity in the past and know it kicks your butt.
Which should I pick? I want to stay committed, and lose as much weight as quickly as possible. I have a large butt and what my husband and I call my “side butt” (or outer thighs lol), and I want to shrink my middle too. Even though I am busy I am willing to do either, as long as I get the results I am craving. Like I said, I want something that keeps me interested and committed, as well as gets me toned.
Thanks so much! And thanks for this awesome blog :):)
Hi Amber, what kind of results did you receive when you did the first month of Insanity. Since you already own Insanity I would start with it. You could then switch to T25 if you begin to get bored with the Insanity workouts, or if you find you do not have the time. Congrats on the job and getting married, Bethany