My 75 Hard Challenge Journey

Embarking on the 75 Hard Challenge was a decision that changed my life in ways I never anticipated. This intense mental and physical challenge, created by entrepreneur Andy Frisella, is not just a fitness program; it's a holistic self-improvement journey designed to test your resilience, discipline, and commitment. In this blog post, I'll share my personal experience with the 75 Hard Challenge, detailing the highs, lows, and the transformative impact it had on my life.

The Basics of 75 Hard

Before delving into my journey, let's quickly review the basics of the 75 Hard Challenge. The challenge requires participants to adhere to the following rules for 75 consecutive days:

Reason for the Challenge

Living an active and healthy life has always been my thing. But during my study abroad last semester, I kind of let loose on my usual eating and exercise habits. I mean, who could resist diving into the local cuisines in every country I visited? It was a once-in-a-lifetime thing, you know?

As my trip was winding down, I realized I needed a change when I got back to the States. Not just for my body, but for my headspace too. The whole study abroad experience was amazing, but it definitely took a toll on my body.

So, back home, I decided to get into a healthier routine. It wasn't just about bouncing back physically; I wanted to get my head in a better space too. Sure, the study abroad memories were fantastic, but my body needed a breather. That's when I committed to making some positive changes in my day-to-day life.

My Initial Hesitations

When I first heard about the 75 Hard Challenge, I was skeptical. The list of requirements seemed daunting, and the idea of committing to such a strict routine for over two months was intimidating. However, deep down, I knew I needed a change in my life. I needed a challenge that would push me out of my comfort zone and force me to confront my habits and excuses.

The Early Struggles

The first few days were honestly not too difficult. I was really excited to get into a new routine, and do something that I know would benefit in the long run. However around week two is when it started getting harder. Adjusting to the rigorous workout routine, maintaining a healthy diet, and especially drinking the gallon of water a day was really difficult. The mental aspect of the challenge, staying committed even on days when my motivation wasn't so high, proved to be just as demanding as the physical requirements. As the days passed, however, I began to notice positive changes. My energy levels increased, and the sense of accomplishment after completing each day fueled my determination to continue.

Starting My Internship

About four weeks into the challenge, things got real tough. It was expected, but it coincided with the start of my internship in NYC. Adapting to a new routine in the midst of this challenge was no walk in the park. However, sticking to that routine became my anchor, providing a much-needed sense of stability.

Around this time, I decided to up the ante by adding a personal challenge: cutting out distractions. Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok – all gone. Being off social media for the rest of the summer turned out to be a game-changer for my mental health. What initially seemed like an impossible feat soon revealed itself to be the catalyst for a personal transformation I never thought possible.

Physical and Mental Transformation

One of the most significant benefits of the 75 Hard Challenge was the physical transformation, as I lost 15 pounds throughout the process . The combination of regular workouts, a clean diet, and hydration led to noticeable changes in my physique. More importantly, the mental transformation was even more profound. I developed a newfound sense of discipline, resilience, and mental toughness. The daily reading habit expanded my knowledge and provided a mental escape that contributed to my overall well-being.

Building Lasting Habits

Beyond the 75 days, what I found most valuable were the habits I cultivated during the challenge. The routines ingrained in me during those intense weeks became a part of my lifestyle. I continued to prioritize fitness, maintain a healthy diet, and dedicate time to personal development. The 75 Hard Challenge served as a catalyst for positive, lasting change.

The 75 Hard Challenge is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to commit, it can be a life-altering experience. My journey taught me the importance of discipline, the power of resilience, and the impact of consistent effort. Fast forward to today – I've shed an impressive 20 pounds, I'm in the midst of training for a marathon, and I'm finally living the lifestyle I've always dreamt of. It's incredible how a journey that began with a challenge has evolved into a transformative experience, bringing me closer to the version of myself I've always aspired to be. If you're considering taking on the challenge, be prepared for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, but know that the rewards – both physical and mental – are well worth the journey.