With the BBG 12 Week Challenge coming up on January 14, one question I keep getting is: BBG or PWR? Which is better?

Well, first let me ask you: What are your goals? In this previous post, I talk about the differences between BBG and PWR, but which one is best?

If you’re new to working out, or want to see fast results and a change on the scale:

BBG. Some of the most influential #fitspo Instagrammers started their fitness journey with BBG. @GracefitUK, @Sophactivelife, PWR Trainer Kelsey Wells, and @MadalinGiorgetta, all credit the program for getting them into fitness. They have since broken away and created their own guides, but fundamentally, their journey began with BBG. GraceFitUK even goes on to say in this video “If someone comes to me and says ‘I wanna get a bit skinnier’, ‘I want to tone up a bit’, I will always recommend BBG”. Just keep in mind, it is all about your goals.

If you’re looking to tone up, and not necessarily lose pounds:

PWR. PWR is mainly gym-based, with less cardio and more weights. Those aforementioned instagrammers left BBG to create programs that are much more in line with PWR. I personally think that lifting is much easier after doing multiple rounds of BBG. As someone who only ever worked out on the elliptical prior to BBG, I know how intimidating the weight section can be. PWR absolutely gives you the confidence to walk into the weight room and get s**t done. However, keep in mind that muscle weighs more than fat. Say that again: muscle weighs  more than fat. We know this, but when the scale doesn’t move – even if our jeans fit better, it can be disappointing.

Again, choosing between the two workouts depends on your goals.

What about BBG Stronger?

Okay, truthfully I’ve never done BBG Stronger. Why? I live in Chicago. My gym is right downtown (read: extremely busy). With PWR, you use one machine for 3-4 sets, then you move on. BBG Stronger requires you to keep going back and forth between machines, which is not feasible at my gym. Set up similarly to BBG, BBG Stronger is 4 workouts, as many rounds as you can in 7 minutes, followed by 4 different workouts for 7 minutes. Then you start over. See what I mean? It’s frustrating enough to find one open machine, let alone keeping it for 28 minutes and hopping between multiple. If your gym is empty, then this might be a great choice for you!

Ok, but can you do PWR at home??

This is the question I get the most. I say yes – but you will need a few items and some creativity. Again, doing BBG first will help you figure out what workouts you can swap for certain machine workouts. Items you’ll need: dumbbells, resistance bands (both the loop and the rope), and a bench, chair or stairwell. Some workouts are tricky to swap (like the hamstring curl), but you can find alternatives on Google. The hamstring curl, for example, can be done by stepping on a loop band with one foot, and wrapping your other foot through the band. Then lift the looped foot behind you (until your leg is at a 90º angle), and set your foot back down. That’s one! You’ll then swap legs and repeat. Or if you have an exercise ball, you can lay on your back with your feet on the ball, legs straight. Then curl your legs towards you until they are bent at 90º (keep your hips up!), and voila! You can follow the hastag #pwrathome for more ideas!

Why not a different workout program altogether?

I am so thankful for the Sweat App, and personally love the workouts! I’ve seen tremendous changes (one day I’ll share with you), and feel confident in the program because I’ve seen it work. I also love being part of such a great online community. If you haven’t become part of the #bbgcommunity on Instagram, you’re missing out on a whole world of supportive women! There are even local BBG Meetups where you can meet each other and workout together! It’s such a supportive group of strong women – and that’s who I aspire to surround myself with at all times. To each their own, but I’ve personally found my fam with the Sweat Community! You can find your community here: https://www.kaylaitsines.com/pages/bbgcommunity (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/sweatwithchi/)

Will you be joining the BBG Community on January 14? Are you doing BBG or PWR? Let me know in the comments!

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