"75 Hard" challenge (3 Viewers)

[gianmarco]

I'll read 100 pages a day and drink hellawater, but the only workouts I do are in the bedroom. So maybe two dots a day in lieu of the inside and outside portion?

That's not what they meant by 75 Hard.

 

[NutterButter]

When is this starting? All I see is people arguing about whether reading is hard.

 

[BassNBrew]

When is this starting? All I see is people arguing about whether reading is hard.

New here? That's what we're best at.

 

[Terminalxylem]

When is this starting? All I see is people arguing about whether reading is hard.

If reading wasn't so hard, you'd know. From the first sentence of the original post:

I'm going to start the "75 Hard" challenge on June 1,

 

[Jayrod]

I think the things we do best here is make everyday conversations into comedy gold.

This thread has become quite entertaining.

 

[NutterButter]

When is this starting? All I see is people arguing about whether reading is hard.

New here? That's what we're best at.

Hi I'm NutterButter. Thanks for having me.

 

[NutterButter]

When is this starting? All I see is people arguing about whether reading is hard.

If reading wasn't so hard, you'd know. From the first sentence of the original post:

I'm going to start the "75 Hard" challenge on June 1,

I'm gonna spend more time waiting for this thing to start than its gonna last. Let's go already.

 

[Caveman33]

I'll do it. What are we defining as 45 minutes of working out? I walk/jog at 5-8 mph for 45 min at least twice a day.

 

[Caveman33]

We could make this a challenge like Seinfeld. If we get 30 people to join at 25-100 a head, we could reward decent progressive prizes to the top 30%. Consistently posting a daily update and selfie may prove to be the hardest part.

 

[gianmarco]

I'll do it. What are we defining as 45 minutes of working out? I walk/jog at 5-8 mph for 45 min at least twice a day.

8mph is not a walk or jog.

 

[the moops]

I'll do it. What are we defining as 45 minutes of working out? I walk/jog at 5-8 mph for 45 min at least twice a day.

8mph is not a walk or jog.

Look at this guy just casually jogging 7.5 minute miles for 45 minutes

 

[AAABatteries]

I'll read 100 pages a day and drink hellawater, but the only workouts I do are in the bedroom. So maybe two dots a day in lieu of the inside and outside portion?

That's not what they meant by 75 Hard.

I thought it was some Lemon Party that Grue had been invited to.

 

[AAABatteries]

I'll do it. What are we defining as 45 minutes of working out? I walk/jog at 5-8 mph for 45 min at least twice a day.

8mph is not a walk or jog.

Look at this guy just casually jogging 7.5 minute miles for 45 minutes

Caveman

 

[JAA]

I'll read 100 pages a day and drink hellawater, but the only workouts I do are in the bedroom. So maybe two dots a day in lieu of the inside and outside portion?

That's not what they meant by 75 Hard.

I thought it was some Lemon Party that Grue had been invited to.

Ill bring the shovel

 

[Caveman33]

I'll do it. What are we defining as 45 minutes of working out? I walk/jog at 5-8 mph for 45 min at least twice a day.

8mph is not a walk or jog.

Look at this guy just casually jogging 7.5 minute miles for 45 minutes

I might be the only one trying to gain weight during the challenge.

 

[Caveman33]

Not really an apt comparison, as both caffeine and alcohol are diuretics. And those beverages contain small amounts of solute, including sodium. If you pee more, you can drink more, and low sodium is what gets people into trouble from water intoxication.

A gallon of water consumed regularly over the course of the day shouldn’t be a problem for the vast majority of people. Just it isn’t necessarily healthier than drinking 2-3L/day, with intake dictated by thirst and activity level.

To be clear, I‘m not concerned about water intoxication drinking a gallon. But I do believe it’s far more difficult than you guys make it out to be.

And reading that much is just boring.

I always enjoy your takes in the health/medical threads. You bring a perspective that demonstrates both knowledge and personal experience.

This is an interesting thread because the 5 components of the challenge have different levels of difficulty for different people.

For me drinking a gallon of water a day is about as difficult as breathing. Living in the desert it is just second nature to knock down 16-20 oz of water every few hours without even thinking about it. That is obviously not going to be the same for people who live in cooler or more humid climates. I probably have 200+ books in my Audible library so finding the time or desire to read 10 pages should be a no brainer, however actually reading a physical book/ebook is something I have not done a lot of in 10 years and that would require discipline.

The no cheat days and 2x45 minute workouts would be the biggest challenge for me because I have always struggled with consistency. All or nothing has been my approach to diet and exercise. And that is probably what I would gain the most from doing this challenge, forming the habit of consistency. Like SWC, I may look at doing a 75 day Medium Challenge.

You’ve eloquently restated the point I’ve been trying to make. I agree it’s interesting, and think others would do well to appreciate our differences, rather than poo-poo/cast doubt on others’ assessment of their challenges.

My 75 Medium will have only two selfies. Not because it’s too hard to take more pictures; I just don’t see any value in it - same reason I believe daily weights aren’t helpful.

I think I can handle the rest.

I've cut back my water consumption a lot. I didn't understand that drinking so much would be hard on my kidneys and dilute my electrolyte balance. 1 gallon might be too much for some people, especially if they are eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. One of the bigger challenges for me will likely be injuries. If there is something at stake then I'm just gonna keep going and pay the price later.

 

[Nugget]

I went to the library and picked up a couple titles to get me through the first 2 weeks. I start practicing the selfies tomorrow.

 

[KarmaPolice]

I read that as 75% hard, which is a different problem.

 

[tri-man 47]

I read that as 75% hard, which is a different problem.

Never a problem; Always an opportunity.

 

[-OZ-]

1. Follow a structured diet. No alcohol or "cheat meals."
2. Complete two 45-minute workouts a day. One must be outside.
3. Drink a gallon of water.
4. Read 10 pages of a nonfiction, educational book. Audiobooks don’t count.
5. Take a progress picture.

In for the 75 medium
1. I’ll cut out “added” sugar and dessert while reducing alcohol to only the pool and out with friends.
2. Ok. Walking the dog will be my most common workout #2. Also, total of 100 minutes or more instead of both needing to be 45 or more.
3.
4.
5. Every day might be tough but weekly perhaps.

 

[Terminalxylem]

To fully commit, my 75 flaccid:

1. Diet, OMAD. Pescatarian. No alcohol.
2. I'll exercise an hour and a half or more daily, at least 45 min outside. Might do it all in one block, climbing, hiking, or walking, at the minimum.
3. I'll drown my troubles in a gallon of H2O daily.
4. I bought a 700 page book, and have another 150+ e-book I've been halfway through for a while.
5. Two selfies: Before and After.

Gonna be tough in July and August, as I have a couple vacations with friends planned. June should be fine.

 

[gruecd]

I know something is obviously better than nothing, but I think the whole point of this is to NOT make modifications to make it more convenient/achievable.

But again, a positive change is a positive change, so

 

[identikit]

I'm out....

Read 11 pages last night

Book is a real page-turner

 

[AAABatteries]

I know something is obviously better than nothing, but I think the whole point of this is to NOT make modifications to make it more convenient/achievable.

But again, a positive change is a positive change, so

Good luck - I think it's a great thing to do. One problem I've had over the years is doing similar (although much easier) challenges and weight loss contests - once it's over I've not developed the habits and stuck with them. That's a me problem and not an issue with the challenge. Is your goal to make these permanent changes or just complete it and get in great shape?

 

[gruecd]

I know something is obviously better than nothing, but I think the whole point of this is to NOT make modifications to make it more convenient/achievable.

But again, a positive change is a positive change, so

Good luck - I think it's a great thing to do. One problem I've had over the years is doing similar (although much easier) challenges and weight loss contests - once it's over I've not developed the habits and stuck with them. That's a me problem and not an issue with the challenge. Is your goal to make these permanent changes or just complete it and get in great shape?

More the latter than the former, but there are certainly elements that I hope will stick. For example, in order to do the two workouts/day, it's almost unavoidable that I'm gonna need to get up by 4:30am to do one before work. That's something I'd like to make permanent. One part of my "diet" will be to allow myself one energy drink each morning, but then nothing else to drink besides water. I'll go back to drinking alcohol (socially, like before) when this is done, but I'd like to continue without the other liquid calories. Same thing with really trying to limit added sugars and unhealthy fast food.

Bottom line, I realize that I'm already in better shape than the vast majority of guys my age, but I've just gotten sloppy/lazy/undisciplined (by my standards) since we had the kid, and I feel that I need an "intervention" like this to shock me back into better habits.

 

[Grahamburn]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

 

[gruecd]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

I think that's true of the two workouts, but I don't think it's that "life-changing" to eat clean and quit drinking for a couple of months.

 

[Grahamburn]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

I think that's true of the two workouts, but I don't think it's that "life-changing" to eat clean and quit drinking for a couple of months.

Depends what clean is. Whole30 clean or just a keto diet? A lot of people are really dependent on food/alcohol for comfort and any number of other reasons.

For someone that isn’t already pretty disciplined, like you are, this would tell them a lot about their body.

Your American typical male would feel amazing after doing this, and may not go back to those bad habits. That’s all I mean.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

I’ll cut out “added” sugar and dessert while reducing alcohol to only the pool and out with friends.

"Where's OZ ?"
"He's at the pool again. He's been spending a lot of time there this month".

 

[-OZ-]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

I think that's true of the two workouts, but I don't think it's that "life-changing" to eat clean and quit drinking for a couple of months.

stopping drinking for the summer would be more of a change for some of us than the workouts.

 

[-OZ-]

I know something is obviously better than nothing, but I think the whole point of this is to NOT make modifications to make it more convenient/achievable.

But again, a positive change is a positive change, so

I’d rather make changes I’m more likely to maintain.

 

[-OZ-]

I’ll cut out “added” sugar and dessert while reducing alcohol to only the pool and out with friends.

"Where's OZ ?"
"He's at the pool again. He's been spending a lot of time there this month".

“Why is he doing 45 minutes of keg stands while reading?”

 

[DA RAIDERS]

I had a friend do this she reallyy enjoyed it. hardest part for me would be the every single day part. i eat pretty well, drink a little too much and workout regularly. no days off would suck

 

[Terminalxylem]

I know something is obviously better than nothing, but I think the whole point of this is to NOT make modifications to make it more convenient/achievable.

But again, a positive change is a positive change, so

Good luck - I think it's a great thing to do. One problem I've had over the years is doing similar (although much easier) challenges and weight loss contests - once it's over I've not developed the habits and stuck with them. That's a me problem and not an issue with the challenge. Is your goal to make these permanent changes or just complete it and get in great shape?

More the latter than the former, but there are certainly elements that I hope will stick. For example, in order to do the two workouts/day, it's almost unavoidable that I'm gonna need to get up by 4:30am to do one before work. That's something I'd like to make permanent. One part of my "diet" will be to allow myself one energy drink each morning, but then nothing else to drink besides water. I'll go back to drinking alcohol (socially, like before) when this is done, but I'd like to continue without the other liquid calories. Same thing with really trying to limit added sugars and unhealthy fast food.

Bottom line, I realize that I'm already in better shape than the vast majority of guys my age, but I've just gotten sloppy/lazy/undisciplined (by my standards) since we had the kid, and I feel that I need an "intervention" like this to shock me back into better habits.

You think getting less sleep per day is a positive change? Same question for daily selfies.

 

[Terminalxylem]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

I think that's true of the two workouts, but I don't think it's that "life-changing" to eat clean and quit drinking for a couple of months.

stopping drinking for the summer would be more of a change for some of us than the workouts.

I agree 75 days of abstinence is more likely to promote the life changing goal of quitting booze, but I highly doubt there are many (any?) people who already exercise twice daily, but drink too much.

But only 3 of the goals are worthwhile anyway.

 

[gruecd]

I had a friend do this she reallyy enjoyed it. hardest part for me would be the every single day part. i eat pretty well, drink a little too much and workout regularly. no days off would suck

I mean, your workout can be yoga or going for a walk. They don't all have to be super intense.

 

[the moops]

Can i still smoke or eat weed?

 

[BassNBrew]

Can i still smoke or eat weed?

Only if you make it a regular part of your diet.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

I think that's true of the two workouts, but I don't think it's that "life-changing" to eat clean and quit drinking for a couple of months.

stopping drinking for the summer would be more of a change for some of us than the workouts.

I agree 75 days of abstinence is more likely to promote the life changing goal of quitting booze, but I highly doubt there are many (any?) people who already exercise twice daily, but drink too much.

But only 3 of the goals are worthwhile anyway.

It’s not twice daily, but I work out a lot. And walk 7-13 miles at work regularly. I also drink too much.

 

[the moops]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

No doubt. It would be a life changing accomplishment for like 99.9% of the population.

You feeling sick one day or you got a sick kid? Sorry, get out of the house for that 2nd 45 minute workout. You running late and haven't had time to go to grocery store? Sorry, no take out for you. It's 900 PM and you are exhauster laying in bed trying to finish off the last couple pages of the required reading - you fall asleep? Sorry, you failed.

 

[beer 30]

I just had a fun size Baby Ruth instead of buying the full size version. An attempt was made...

 

[Grahamburn]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

No doubt. It would be a life changing accomplishment for like 99.9% of the population.

You feeling sick one day or you got a sick kid? Sorry, get out of the house for that 2nd 45 minute workout. You running late and haven't had time to go to grocery store? Sorry, no take out for you. It's 900 PM and you are exhauster laying in bed trying to finish off the last couple pages of the required reading - you fall asleep? Sorry, you failed.

And, to me, walking your dog or playing with your kids isn't a "work out." I already do those things and run/bike/lift 6 days a week. As a husband/father/contributor to society I can't imagine trying to fit another one of those in every single day for 75 straight days. But, if those count it's basically just eliminating alcohol. I already eat pretty clean and have started cutting any bad stuff.

Can I listen to an audio book on my commute?

 

[-OZ-]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

No doubt. It would be a life changing accomplishment for like 99.9% of the population.

You feeling sick one day or you got a sick kid? Sorry, get out of the house for that 2nd 45 minute workout. You running late and haven't had time to go to grocery store? Sorry, no take out for you. It's 900 PM and you are exhauster laying in bed trying to finish off the last couple pages of the required reading - you fall asleep? Sorry, you failed.

And, to me, walking your dog or playing with your kids isn't a "work out." I already do those things and run/bike/lift 6 days a week. As a husband/father/contributor to society I can't imagine trying to fit another one of those in every single day for 75 straight days. But, if those count it's basically just eliminating alcohol. I already eat pretty clean and have started cutting any bad stuff.

Can I listen to an audio book on my commute?

I’m definitely counting walking the dog and playing pickle ball with my 9yo as a workout.

 

[Terminalxylem]

Completing this would a life changing accomplishment for the majority of us.

I think that's true of the two workouts, but I don't think it's that "life-changing" to eat clean and quit drinking for a couple of months.

stopping drinking for the summer would be more of a change for some of us than the workouts.

I agree 75 days of abstinence is more likely to promote the life changing goal of quitting booze, but I highly doubt there are many (any?) people who already exercise twice daily, but drink too much.

But only 3 of the goals are worthwhile anyway.

It’s not twice daily, but I work out a lot. And walk 7-13 miles at work regularly. I also drink too much.

Yeah, the twice daily part, every day is so compulsive, I doubt many qualify at baseline. And that group is likely too health conscious to be problem drinkers.

Also, that’s a really odd range for your work walking.

ETA I used to ride my bike to/from work, 15 miles one-way. So that would qualify for the exercise bit. But no way could I do that 75 days in a row.

 

[Nugget]

Good luck today. 149 workouts to go.

 

[BassNBrew]

Good luck everyone.

One workout, 1/2 gallon of water, and 10 pages done.

 

[gianmarco]

Good luck everyone.

One workout, 1/2 gallon of water, and 10 pages done.

Beast.

 

[Juxtatarot]

If you haven’t gotten in at least two pages yet, you’re behind pace.

 

[gruecd]

I’d you haven’t gotten in at least two pages yet, you’re behind pace.

Crap

 

[ChiefD]

Sounds fun.

Fun and terrible.