Just before the pandemic, the fitness program 75 Hard made its debut. Created by motivational speaker Andy Frisella, this 75-day challenge required participants to follow strict rules—no cheat meals, two daily workouts, and more. Missing even one rule meant starting over. While some thrived on this intense regimen, the trend of extreme fitness was quickly followed by a rise in gentler approaches to wellness.
Today, a new program called 75 Grow is gaining popularity, particularly on social media. Developed by psychiatrist Margaret Duncan, this challenge emphasizes self-compassion and gradual change over strict discipline. According to Duncan, it targets smaller habits rather than overwhelming participants with extreme measures. Dr. Christian Perrin, a psychologist, notes that while 75 Hard demands toughness, 75 Grow promotes curiosity and personal growth.
So, what does 75 Grow involve? It focuses on three main areas: movement, avoiding procrastination, and practicing creativity. Every week, participants choose their activities, set timers to tackle projects, and engage in creative endeavors. This fresh perspective blends mental and physical wellness in a way that feels more approachable.
Research backs the benefits of gentle wellness. Olympian Sarah Lindsay emphasizes that exercise should improve life, not complicate it. The global wellness industry, valued at over $2 trillion, is shifting towards this more holistic view. Even older generations are starting to engage with wellness that prioritizes enjoyment over rigidity.
Dr. Perrin adds that aligning personal values with goals can lead to enduring habits. This means finding joy in the process rather than just focusing on outcomes. Gentle wellness encourages flexibility, where missing a day doesn’t mean failure. It’s about progress, not perfection.
Experts agree that consistency is vital for lasting change. Simple actions, like a daily walk, can have a more significant impact than a single intense workout. It’s essential to find a balance—mixing accountability with kindness.
Though 75 Hard and 75 Grow are at opposite ends of the spectrum, they share one key element: integrating daily movement into life. Research indicates that it takes, on average, 66 days for a new behavior to become a habit. Missing a few days doesn’t invalidate progress, reinforcing the idea that what matters most is persistence.
Ultimately, a value-driven approach helps individuals discover enjoyable physical activities, making it easier to stay committed. As Dr. Perrin notes, we can reframe the idea of pushing limits into expanding our capabilities while prioritizing self-care and recovery.
In the end, whether you’re tackling a challenge like 75 Hard or embracing the gentler path of 75 Grow, the goal is clear: find what works for you and stick with it, nurturing not just your body but also your mind.
For more insights on the future of wellness, check out McKinsey’s comprehensive report here.
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story,standard,Lifestyle Team
