Experts Warn People Against Trying the Viral 75-Hard Fitness Challenge in the UK and Beyond

Fitness trends seem to rise and fall with each new year, but some are far more extreme than others.

One such challenge that has taken the internet by storm is the ’75-Hard’ program.

However, experts are warning that this latest craze may be more dangerous than it is beneficial.

What Is the 75-Hard Challenge?

The 75-Hard challenge, created by US-based author and podcaster Andy Frisella in 2019, promises to deliver life-changing physical and mental transformations in just 75 days.

It includes five strict elements: two 45-minute workouts per day, drinking 8 pints (4.5 liters) of water daily, a strict diet with no alcohol, and at least 10 minutes of reading non-fiction each day to promote mental fitness.

The challenge has quickly gained traction on social media, with millions of participants sharing their experiences.

Some claim it has transformed their bodies and minds, but experts caution that the plan’s extreme nature could lead to serious health risks.

The Water Intake Danger

One of the most concerning aspects of the challenge is the massive amount of water participants are encouraged to drink—8 pints a day.

While staying hydrated is important, consuming excessive amounts of water without intense physical activity can cause a dangerous condition called hyponatremia.

Professor Peter Watt, an expert in sports and exercise science at the University of Brighton, warns that drinking too much water can upset the body’s balance of salts, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, muscle spasms, and even seizures.

The NHS recommends around 2 liters of fluids a day for the average adult, with an increase needed only during intense exercise or in hot conditions.

Mental and Physical Benefits: Fact or Fiction?

Despite the warnings, there are many success stories surrounding the challenge.

Frisella himself claims that 75-Hard is the “only program” that can transform a person’s life, focusing not just on physical changes but mental ones.

Participants report increased discipline, leadership skills, and confidence after completing the challenge.

Devamsha Gunput, 29, from Edinburgh, shared that the challenge helped her exercise more regularly and improved her relationship with food.

Similarly, Sophie Deakins, 27, from London, found that 75-Hard boosted her confidence and shifted her mindset.

However, fitness professionals like Tana von Zitzewitz caution that the rigidity of the challenge makes it tough for many people to maintain in the long term.

Von Zitzewitz recommends choosing a more flexible and enjoyable fitness plan rather than a highly demanding one.

Is 75-Hard Really Worth It?

NHS GP Sam Whiteman expressed doubts about the true benefits of the 75-Hard challenge.

He believes that sticking to a regular, balanced fitness routine—such as going to the gym three times a week or taking weekly runs—could be just as effective as the extreme approach of the challenge.

The 75-Hard challenge is only one example of the many fitness fads that have appeared in recent years.

Other extreme trends have included the 600-calorie workout and the 100-rep challenge.

But while some may find success with these methods, experts suggest that a more balanced approach to fitness is often safer and more sustainable.

A Balanced Approach to Health and Fitness

The NHS recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week.

This could include walking, cycling, or yoga, and should be combined with strengthening activities like weightlifting.

The key to a healthy lifestyle is consistency, balance, and enjoyment, rather than extreme measures that may pose long-term risks to your health.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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