Do You Need to Do 75 Hard to Get Fit?

If you’ve been exploring ways to improve your health and fitness, you may have come across the 75 Hard challenge. It’s a structured program that’s gained a lot of attention online, especially for its claims of mental toughness and dramatic results, but is it the right approach for you??

Let’s break down what 75 Hard is and whether it’s necessary for you to achieve your goals.


What Is 75 Hard?

Created in 2019 by author Andy Frisella, 75 Hard is described as a “mental toughness” program. It involves strict rules for 75 days:

  1. Follow a diet (the program doesn’t specify which one).
  2. Do two 45-minute workouts every day (one must be outside).
  3. Drink a gallon of water daily.
  4. Read 10 pages of a non-fiction book every day.
  5. Take a progress picture daily.

It’s a serious commitment, but is it the best way to improve your fitness?


Will 75 Hard Work for You?

There’s no doubt that 75 Hard can build discipline, but it can also be overwhelming—especially if you’re just starting out or trying to balance fitness with a busy life. Let’s take a closer look at each element:

Nutrition:

Eating well is key to better health, but 75 Hard doesn’t offer guidance on what a balanced diet looks like. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to make mistakes. A qualified coach can help you build healthy nutrition habits that support your goals.

Exercise:

Two 45-minute workouts a day is a lot—especially if you’re new to fitness or managing past injuries. Overtraining can lead to burnout or setbacks. Instead, a structured program with appropriate workouts a few times a week can help you see results without unnecessary strain.

Hydration:

Drinking more water is great, but a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t ideal. For example, someone doing intense outdoor workouts in hot weather will need more water than someone with a sedentary job in a cool climate. Instead of aiming for an arbitrary goal, a coach can help you determine the right amount for you. Your water needs depend on factors like activity level and climate. Instead of aiming for an arbitrary goal, a coach can help you determine the right amount for you.

Reading:

No complaints here! Reading is always beneficial for learning and personal growth.

Progress Pictures:

Tracking progress is important, but daily pictures may not be the best way. Many changes happen internally before they show externally. A good coach will help you track progress in a way that keeps you motivated.


What’s the Best Fitness Plan for You?

The truth is, you don’t need to follow an extreme challenge to improve your health and fitness. A smarter approach is to focus on sustainable habits:

  • Strength training 2-4 times per week
  • Daily movement (like walking or stretching)
  • Balanced nutrition that supports your goals
  • Proper recovery and hydration
  • A plan that fits your lifestyle and needs

This approach is not only more manageable but also more effective in the long run.


Ready to Get Started?

If 75 Hard sounds intimidating but you still want to improve your fitness, we’re here to help. Our team can create a personalized plan that fits your goals, lifestyle, and schedule—without extremes.

We offer free consultations where we’ll answer your questions, discuss your goals, and outline a simple, realistic plan to help you take the first step toward better health.

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