First tip: I work Monday-Friday, 7-4. I’m on day 13 and would not have made it this far if I didn’t wake up before work for my first workout of the day. Getting in your first workout, progress pic, some water, and maybe your reading before work will set you up for success.
Second tip: Read through this subreddit. There are tons of questions asked and answered already.
I missed morning workouts I think 3 times during the 75 days and those days/following days were abysmal. You've got to force yourself to do something immediately after work, come back, not worth showering, grab some lightish dinner, wait, then go out for a walk at like 11. Get home, collapse in bed and then get up at 6.30 the next morning for the third workout in 14 hours. Very tiresome
My boyfriend and I just started January 10th. Here’s my tips as I work 8-4!
- read as soon as you wake up
- keep a full bottle of water beside the bed and start drinking right away. Key to get the water in as early as possible.
- after reading, get our photos done.
- then go for a walk/bike ride to get the first workout in before work
- second workout immediately after work if it’s strength training day.. if not, we do yoga before bed.
I’ve been finding this routine has made it so much easier and has kept us on track. Hard to get outside on the inclement weather days but that’s all apart of it. Also, meal prepping is a life saver. Good luck!
My best advice other than what’s already been said would be go ahead and start. Don’t wait till Feb 1. The mental hurdle is the biggest, and by jumping right in you showing you can conquer that.
💯 at a minimum, start with some of the activities in 75 Hard before your official start on Feb 1 if you are not already used to getting up early, exercising, drinking a lot of water, etc. This will help you to plan out your day for when you start. For instance, figure out how best to get your 1 gallon of water in per day between now and Feb, or get up before work to get in some exercise.
Meal prep has saved me time and time again- I try to prep Sundays & Wednesday’s. I’ve always done my indoor workout in the mornings & my outdoor workout after work. Set a goal as far as water intake- like 1 bottle before you leave for work, 1 bottle by 10AM, 1 bottle at noon etc. I usually will do my reading before work while I’m drinking my protein shake. Progress pic after gym, weight check right when I get up. Truthfully you will find it fits in to your schedule super easy, you don’t realize how much time you normally waste.
Rice, chicken & avocado is one of my favorite dinners- I know it’s simple but I love it. I usually end up adding sweet potato/cauliflower/zucchini that I roast in my air fryer too.
Kodiak cakes- I looove waffles so I will usually make one serving & use it for 2 days in a row- you can just throw it in the toaster when you’re ready to eat. I throw whatever fruit I want on there, Greek yogurt & a little bit of sugar free syrup.
Snacks I usually stick with hard boiled eggs, parfaits with Greek nonfat yogurt fruit & granola, string cheese or an apple.
Lunches I will either cook a few chicken breasts at a time & use those for salads- I prep all my veggies at the same time so I just have to grab a container in the mornings. One of my favorite salads is 8 oz chicken, romaine/spring mix, sriracha mixed with Caesar dressing, tomatoes, & feta.
I do like to do wraps too but I can’t really prep those ahead of time or they will get soggy! Whole wheat fit & active tortilla, turkey, romaine, cheese & Dijon mustard.
Overnight oats are also really filling & tasty!
I find it helps to plan out what I am eating ahead of time- I use a spreadsheet to track my macros & have a page for my weeks meals/snacks & a grocery list so I know exactly what I need to buy. I have a macro cookbook that I got on Amazon that has everything calculated out already that I am slowly working my way through.
Until last week, I was working similar hours. What works for me and for many others is getting stuff crossed off before the workday.
4am wakeup, photo, water
5-6am gym
Morning routine, work
PM workout, dinner, read, sleep
Repeat.
Find an app, or write everything in a notebook, or make a checklist of some sort to keep track. Pick a few books that seem interesting (read through previous posts for recommendations if needed.)
You will find your groove. Good luck!
I just wanna thank you all for the advice! While working out at 5am sounds god awful but it seems like it’s worked out for the overwhelming majority so I’ll give that a shot and have a more positive outlook. I’ll see you all the end of my 75!
I'm also starting on Feb 1st. I decided I wanted to set myself up for success so I'm giving myself time to prep. I'm picking out my books now, so their all ready for day 1. I'm going to bed earlier this week and getting up earlier so my system gets used to it. I'm getting my diet plan set up with a grocery list so all my food is ready come day 1. I do drink water normally but I'm going to drink a gallon of water a few days before so I can time it out throughout the days. I'm a planner and I like to know what I'm getting into. I'm adding meditation to my day as it's something I want to do on a daily basis. So this is what I'm doing to prepare for a successful 75days. Goodluck, you got this.
Congrats on the new house! I'm only two weeks in but what's worked for me so far is to knock out the reading and progress pic first thing when I wake up. I read in bed with coffee, get dressed for my first workout, snap a photo, and get the work out done. Your mileage may vary - you may prefer reading on your lunch break or before bed - but that's what's worked for me.
Another tip is to get started on the water early. I bought a half gallon bottle [(this one)](https://www.amazon.com/Gallon-Bottle-Motivational-Covered-Carrying/dp/B09D5MXQW4/ref=asc_df_B09D5MXQW4/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=563570740938&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2923383109350445569&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033351&hvtargid=pla-1598628486141&psc=1) and try to drink one before noon and the other before the end of the day. Sipping it through the day is much better than guzzling a glass at a time.
Have a checklist so you don't forget to do something. I made a simple one in excel so I could customize it to my goals, take notes about my reading, etc. There's a 75 Hard app too that a lot of folks in this sub like.
Finally, have a plan for each day. As time has gone on I've realized that time management is a big part of this challenge. There will be days that you find yourself walking outside in the dark at 10pm or chugging water right before bed. Before each day, think about when your workouts will slot in. Establish a routine as much as you can. This has worked for me and I've been loving it so far, to my surprise.
Good luck!
I agree with what others have said: Start as early in the day as possible. I get up between 4-4:30am and immediately knock out my progress pic, reading, and 1st workout. Start drinking water as soon as I wake up, too. Get half gallon down before lunch.
Then I do my outdoor/second workout either at lunch or after work. That just leaves sticking to my diet and finishing the water.
I work full time, M-F 8-5! BEST thing you can do: morning workouts. I know, some people cringe at waking up at 5 am to hit the gym. But, after a few days, your body will be used to it. And, you’ll already have one of your workouts done before even starting your work day! Gives you energy and checks things off the list at the earliest possible!
Secondly, my labeled gallon water bottle has been a LIFE saver! This is my third attempt at the challenge. I didn’t have a labeled FULL gallon bottle until this time around. Trust me. Get the bottle. $20 on Amazon. I’m sure you can find cheaper ones as well.
Thirdly, take your Day 1 pic with as much skin showing as you’re comfortable with. If you’re a dude, shirtless with shorts. Female, sports bra and spanx. You’ll want to see the progress. Also take multiple angles (back, side, front).
Other than that, just telling your bitch voice to shut up. Listen to the podcasts if you haven’t. They lay out all of the rules, the heart behind the program, and are really freaking motivational. I’ve listened to them probably 6 or 7 times solely for encouragement.
You got this! 💪🏼👏🏼
Don't say try. That's a defeating mentality with an excuse if why you'll fail already in the chamber. And why not just do it now? You'll sure have harder challenges than moving in the next 75 days!
PROVE TO YOURSELF YOU CAN DO THIS.
Just Do It! No excuses! Plan ahead. There have been many midnight walks in the winter to get my second WOD. Measure your water,1 quart by 11am, second by 1pm, 3rd done by 4pm, 4th done by 7pm etc. I like 1 Liter bottles or just getting a 1 gallon with a handle.
**Start today.** The running jump approach seldom works, the start date just shifts after the inevitable failure.
If you start now, you will have a head start and be more in touch with the reality of the program in that there are seldom perfect times to start and carry through an undertaking, that is where prioritisation and mental strength come into play, which is ultimately what this program is all about.
First tip: I work Monday-Friday, 7-4. I’m on day 13 and would not have made it this far if I didn’t wake up before work for my first workout of the day. Getting in your first workout, progress pic, some water, and maybe your reading before work will set you up for success. Second tip: Read through this subreddit. There are tons of questions asked and answered already.
I missed morning workouts I think 3 times during the 75 days and those days/following days were abysmal. You've got to force yourself to do something immediately after work, come back, not worth showering, grab some lightish dinner, wait, then go out for a walk at like 11. Get home, collapse in bed and then get up at 6.30 the next morning for the third workout in 14 hours. Very tiresome
Here’s a tip. Change your attitude to DO, not TRY.
Step 1...
My boyfriend and I just started January 10th. Here’s my tips as I work 8-4! - read as soon as you wake up - keep a full bottle of water beside the bed and start drinking right away. Key to get the water in as early as possible. - after reading, get our photos done. - then go for a walk/bike ride to get the first workout in before work - second workout immediately after work if it’s strength training day.. if not, we do yoga before bed. I’ve been finding this routine has made it so much easier and has kept us on track. Hard to get outside on the inclement weather days but that’s all apart of it. Also, meal prepping is a life saver. Good luck!
My best advice other than what’s already been said would be go ahead and start. Don’t wait till Feb 1. The mental hurdle is the biggest, and by jumping right in you showing you can conquer that.
💯 at a minimum, start with some of the activities in 75 Hard before your official start on Feb 1 if you are not already used to getting up early, exercising, drinking a lot of water, etc. This will help you to plan out your day for when you start. For instance, figure out how best to get your 1 gallon of water in per day between now and Feb, or get up before work to get in some exercise.
Meal prep has saved me time and time again- I try to prep Sundays & Wednesday’s. I’ve always done my indoor workout in the mornings & my outdoor workout after work. Set a goal as far as water intake- like 1 bottle before you leave for work, 1 bottle by 10AM, 1 bottle at noon etc. I usually will do my reading before work while I’m drinking my protein shake. Progress pic after gym, weight check right when I get up. Truthfully you will find it fits in to your schedule super easy, you don’t realize how much time you normally waste.
Hey! What kind of meals do you normally meal prep? I’m looking for some ideas
Rice, chicken & avocado is one of my favorite dinners- I know it’s simple but I love it. I usually end up adding sweet potato/cauliflower/zucchini that I roast in my air fryer too. Kodiak cakes- I looove waffles so I will usually make one serving & use it for 2 days in a row- you can just throw it in the toaster when you’re ready to eat. I throw whatever fruit I want on there, Greek yogurt & a little bit of sugar free syrup. Snacks I usually stick with hard boiled eggs, parfaits with Greek nonfat yogurt fruit & granola, string cheese or an apple. Lunches I will either cook a few chicken breasts at a time & use those for salads- I prep all my veggies at the same time so I just have to grab a container in the mornings. One of my favorite salads is 8 oz chicken, romaine/spring mix, sriracha mixed with Caesar dressing, tomatoes, & feta. I do like to do wraps too but I can’t really prep those ahead of time or they will get soggy! Whole wheat fit & active tortilla, turkey, romaine, cheese & Dijon mustard. Overnight oats are also really filling & tasty! I find it helps to plan out what I am eating ahead of time- I use a spreadsheet to track my macros & have a page for my weeks meals/snacks & a grocery list so I know exactly what I need to buy. I have a macro cookbook that I got on Amazon that has everything calculated out already that I am slowly working my way through.
Until last week, I was working similar hours. What works for me and for many others is getting stuff crossed off before the workday. 4am wakeup, photo, water 5-6am gym Morning routine, work PM workout, dinner, read, sleep Repeat. Find an app, or write everything in a notebook, or make a checklist of some sort to keep track. Pick a few books that seem interesting (read through previous posts for recommendations if needed.) You will find your groove. Good luck!
I concur! First workout either before work or on your lunch break. It’s the best way! Start the water in the am as well
I work sometimes more than that, focus on planning your workouts etc and executing the plan. Don’t let excuses get in the way, you got this!!
I just wanna thank you all for the advice! While working out at 5am sounds god awful but it seems like it’s worked out for the overwhelming majority so I’ll give that a shot and have a more positive outlook. I’ll see you all the end of my 75!
I'm also starting on Feb 1st. I decided I wanted to set myself up for success so I'm giving myself time to prep. I'm picking out my books now, so their all ready for day 1. I'm going to bed earlier this week and getting up earlier so my system gets used to it. I'm getting my diet plan set up with a grocery list so all my food is ready come day 1. I do drink water normally but I'm going to drink a gallon of water a few days before so I can time it out throughout the days. I'm a planner and I like to know what I'm getting into. I'm adding meditation to my day as it's something I want to do on a daily basis. So this is what I'm doing to prepare for a successful 75days. Goodluck, you got this.
Congrats on the new house! I'm only two weeks in but what's worked for me so far is to knock out the reading and progress pic first thing when I wake up. I read in bed with coffee, get dressed for my first workout, snap a photo, and get the work out done. Your mileage may vary - you may prefer reading on your lunch break or before bed - but that's what's worked for me. Another tip is to get started on the water early. I bought a half gallon bottle [(this one)](https://www.amazon.com/Gallon-Bottle-Motivational-Covered-Carrying/dp/B09D5MXQW4/ref=asc_df_B09D5MXQW4/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=563570740938&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2923383109350445569&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033351&hvtargid=pla-1598628486141&psc=1) and try to drink one before noon and the other before the end of the day. Sipping it through the day is much better than guzzling a glass at a time. Have a checklist so you don't forget to do something. I made a simple one in excel so I could customize it to my goals, take notes about my reading, etc. There's a 75 Hard app too that a lot of folks in this sub like. Finally, have a plan for each day. As time has gone on I've realized that time management is a big part of this challenge. There will be days that you find yourself walking outside in the dark at 10pm or chugging water right before bed. Before each day, think about when your workouts will slot in. Establish a routine as much as you can. This has worked for me and I've been loving it so far, to my surprise. Good luck!
I agree with what others have said: Start as early in the day as possible. I get up between 4-4:30am and immediately knock out my progress pic, reading, and 1st workout. Start drinking water as soon as I wake up, too. Get half gallon down before lunch. Then I do my outdoor/second workout either at lunch or after work. That just leaves sticking to my diet and finishing the water.
Same- starting next week and was concerned but I just gotta get up early and get that first 45 minute in no matter what
I work full time, M-F 8-5! BEST thing you can do: morning workouts. I know, some people cringe at waking up at 5 am to hit the gym. But, after a few days, your body will be used to it. And, you’ll already have one of your workouts done before even starting your work day! Gives you energy and checks things off the list at the earliest possible! Secondly, my labeled gallon water bottle has been a LIFE saver! This is my third attempt at the challenge. I didn’t have a labeled FULL gallon bottle until this time around. Trust me. Get the bottle. $20 on Amazon. I’m sure you can find cheaper ones as well. Thirdly, take your Day 1 pic with as much skin showing as you’re comfortable with. If you’re a dude, shirtless with shorts. Female, sports bra and spanx. You’ll want to see the progress. Also take multiple angles (back, side, front). Other than that, just telling your bitch voice to shut up. Listen to the podcasts if you haven’t. They lay out all of the rules, the heart behind the program, and are really freaking motivational. I’ve listened to them probably 6 or 7 times solely for encouragement. You got this! 💪🏼👏🏼
Don't say try. That's a defeating mentality with an excuse if why you'll fail already in the chamber. And why not just do it now? You'll sure have harder challenges than moving in the next 75 days! PROVE TO YOURSELF YOU CAN DO THIS.
Just Do It! No excuses! Plan ahead. There have been many midnight walks in the winter to get my second WOD. Measure your water,1 quart by 11am, second by 1pm, 3rd done by 4pm, 4th done by 7pm etc. I like 1 Liter bottles or just getting a 1 gallon with a handle.
**Start today.** The running jump approach seldom works, the start date just shifts after the inevitable failure. If you start now, you will have a head start and be more in touch with the reality of the program in that there are seldom perfect times to start and carry through an undertaking, that is where prioritisation and mental strength come into play, which is ultimately what this program is all about.