The 75 Hard challenge, created by author and podcaster Andy Frisella in 2019, has garnered significant attention on social media platforms, especially TikTok. This rigorous program demands participants adhere to a strict regimen for 75 consecutive days, focusing on physical fitness, mental toughness, and personal development. The challenge’s appeal lies in its promise of transformation, yet experts caution that its intensity may not be suitable for everyone.
The core components of the 75 Hard challenge include following a healthy diet devoid of cheat meals or alcohol, completing two 45-minute workouts daily—one of which must be outdoors—drinking over three liters of water each day, and reading ten pages of a non-fiction book every day. This stringent routine aims to foster discipline and resilience among participants, pushing them beyond their comfort zones.
Since its inception, variations of the challenge have emerged to accommodate different lifestyles. "75 Soft" permits occasional indulgences like alcoholic beverages and unhealthy meals while still requiring exercise and reading. Meanwhile, "75 Medium" offers even greater flexibility in diet and exercise routines. These adaptations aim to make the challenge more accessible to a wider audience.
The challenge's popularity has surged on TikTok, where countless individuals share their experiences and progress. Among them is Devamsha Gunput, a 29-year-old digital consultant who successfully completed the challenge while balancing a full-time job. He noted that the requirements forced him out of his comfort zone, stating, “Having to exercise twice a day and be strict on my diet were really uncomfortable and new areas for me to tackle, because I hadn't had that conversation before.” His commitment resulted in a transformation in his lifestyle, as he remarked, “I exercise a lot more regularly, my reading habits and my relationship with food have transformed.”
Similarly, Sophie Deakins, a 27-year-old assistant manager, completed the challenge last year. Both participants exemplify how individuals can achieve personal goals through discipline. However, the challenge remains controversial.
Experts have raised concerns about the potential risks associated with the 75 Hard challenge. NHS GP Sam Whiteman highlighted that the program has not been studied in a clinical setting and may not yield beneficial results for everyone. He acknowledged the immense time commitment involved, stating, “You need a lot of time, not only for the workouts, but for reading the book – it seems a lot to try and cram into one day.”
Additionally, Tana von Zitzewitz, a strength and conditioning coach, called attention to the psychological pressure surrounding such challenges. She noted, “There is so much pressure for people to transform their lives at this time of year.” Her advice encourages individuals to find ways to push themselves while being kind to their bodies and minds.
Andy Frisella himself has emphasized that the challenge is rooted in his extensive experience with mental resilience. He stated that he spent “20 years figuring out how to master mental toughness,” which informed the creation of the challenge. Frisella expressed mixed feelings about the program’s effectiveness compared to traditional fitness regimens. “If it's a way for people to get out and be active then I am all for it," he said. "But if it's a question of whether this is better than going to the gym three times a week or going for a run once a week and eating healthily, then I am not sure.”
As participants continue to document their journeys online, it becomes evident that while the 75 Hard challenge can lead to transformative results for some, it is not universally applicable. The stringent demands may pose risks for those with certain health conditions or mental health issues.
Leave a Reply