Starting the 75 Soft Challenge: Finding Balance in a Busy Season
With the holidays approaching and my calendar filling up fast, I knew I needed something both challenging and sustainable to keep me on track. That’s why I chose the 75 Soft Challenge. While the original 75 Hard Challenge is famously intense, the 75 Soft Challenge offers a more adaptable approach for anyone looking to stay committed to their health and fitness goals, even when life gets busy.
Understanding the Differences: 75 Hard vs. 75 Soft Challenge
If you’re unfamiliar with the 75 Hard Challenge, it’s known for its rigid rules and all-or-nothing approach. Created by Andy Frisella, this mental and physical challenge spans 75 days with no breaks, requiring participants to:
Complete two 45-minute workouts daily (one must be outdoors)
Follow a strict diet with no cheat meals or alcohol
Drink a gallon of water daily
Read 10 pages of a non-fiction book
Take a progress picture every day
The 75 Hard Challenge is a serious test of mental resilience and self-discipline. While it’s great for some, the demands of two workouts per day and a highly restrictive diet can be overwhelming—especially during the holiday season and with a busy work and family life.
The 75 Soft Challenge is a gentler alternative. While it keeps the commitment to daily healthy habits, it’s designed to be more flexible, allowing for life’s unpredictability. The core rules of the 75 Soft Challenge typically include:
Complete one 45-minute workout each day
Follow a healthy diet (with no strict restrictions)
Drink at least 3 liters of water
Read 10 pages of a self-development book
By taking on the 75 Soft Challenge, I can still focus on my goals while staying realistic about holiday gatherings, busy schedules, and family events.
Why I Chose 75 Soft for This Season
The holiday season is often a mix of excitement, joy, and, yes, a bit of stress. From gift shopping to holiday parties and family gatherings, this time of year is special, but it’s also demanding. Starting the 75 Soft Challenge now allows me to stay consistent without feeling like I have to sacrifice every festive moment.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through the holidays has always been important to me, but I don’t want to feel deprived or overly restricted. The 75 Soft Challenge strikes a perfect balance: I can stay active, make healthier choices, and keep my fitness goals in sight, all without adding extra stress to my plate. The flexibility of one workout per day and a more balanced diet approach allows me to take care of my body while still celebrating with loved ones.
The Benefits I’m Hoping to See
For me, the focus of the 75 Soft Challenge is about balance and sustainability. I want to develop habits that will last well beyond these 75 days. With the upcoming holiday season, it’s easy to let self-care take a back seat. But having a plan in place helps me stay mindful and focused. By prioritizing hydration, movement, reading, and balanced eating, I hope to:
Feel more energized
Manage holiday stress better
Improve my physical and mental health
Set a foundation for the new year
Tips for Staying on Track During the Challenge
Taking on the 75 Soft Challenge during the holidays may sound ambitious, but here are some tips I’m using to make it manageable:
Plan Your Workouts: I’ve scheduled my workouts in advance so I can fit them in even on busy days. Some days it might be a quick 45-minute walk, while others it’ll be strength training at home.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Drinking water might sound simple, but it’s one of the most effective ways to stay on track during the holidays. I carry a water bottle everywhere as a reminder to stay hydrated.
Read Before Bed: I use my reading time as a way to wind down at night. Not only does it fulfill a daily task, but it also helps me relax and prepare for restful sleep.
Make Smart Food Choices: While holiday treats are part of the season, I’m keeping my meals balanced. I remind myself that indulging doesn’t mean overindulging, and I focus on moderation.
Give Yourself Grace: Life can be unpredictable, and while I’m committed to this challenge, I’m also allowing myself grace. If something doesn’t go exactly as planned, I’ll adjust and keep moving forward.
Looking Ahead
As I start this 75-day journey, I’m excited to see the positive impact it can have. The 75 Soft Challenge is about building resilience and discipline in a way that works with my lifestyle—not against it. By focusing on these healthier habits, I’m not only investing in myself during the holidays but also setting a solid foundation for the new year.
If you’re considering a wellness challenge but want something that adapts to your life, the 75 Soft Challenge might be the perfect fit. It’s all about making choices that work for you, creating habits that last, and finding balance in every season. Here’s to a healthy, joyful holiday season and a strong start to the new year!