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      LISS: A Complete Guide, From What It Actually Is, To Why And When To Do It

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      You’re likely well-versed in HIIT, but how much do you know about LISS, a.k.a. ‘Low Intensity Steady State’ training? Also known as LISS cardio, the low-intensity training includes workouts such as walking, hiking or cycling. And it’s packed full of rewards that you’ll not want to be missing out on.

      So, we’re diving into a full explainer on what LISS is really about, from what LISS cardio is good for, to how to do a LISS workout properly and when to add it to your weekly schedule. Ready?

      1. What is LISS?

      ‘LISS’ stands for Low-Intensity Steady State training, so instead of pushing yourself to breaking point for short bursts, you aim for a lower level of exertion for a long, continuous period of time.

      For many years, LISS was the go-to exercise for burning exercise cals (think long runs and endurance cardio) but when its younger and speedier cousin HIIT (high-intensity interval training) came along, it was quickly relegated to the B-team. The main difference between the two is that in HIIT, you’ll get your heart rate close to max for a matter of seconds before resting and repeating, whereas in LISS your heart rate will rise to a much lower intensity but will be kept there for minutes or even hours. You can see why some people swung to team HIIT – with shorter bursts of exercise needed for health benefits.

      However, those of you that were quick to hang up your walking shoes may have jumped too soon – LISS has a myriad of benefits that shouldn’t be overlooked.

      In fact, a weekly routine that contains both LISS and HIIT workouts might help you hit your goals more quickly than if you were to commit to just one – more on this later.

      2. Benefits of LISS training

      There are myriad benefits to LISS cardio, including:

      Pain elimination

      Posture improvement

      Fat burn

      Improving your body’s cardiovascular capacity

      It’s accessible and scalable to all fitness levels

      Research shows that LISS can be just as beneficial for cardio health as HIIT and that there’s no difference in fat loss between groups who did continuous training and interval workouts.

      3. What are some example LISS workouts?

      LISS training is any low-endurance workout, all at a relaxed level. These can include:

      To be precise, LISS training or LISS cardio is any low-endurance workout that’s around 50-65% of your max heart rate, depending on your fitness level. In other words, you should still be able to hold a conversation whilst performing LISS, so it’s a good form of exercise to do with a friend or the family.

      ‘LISS is important because it breaks up your week,’ WH cover star and PT Kayla Itsines previously explained at Women’s Health‘s Live Virtual event.

      ‘Going for LISS [exercise] is so great for your overall fitness and also for your mind as well,’ she continued. ‘Set a 15-minute timer or a 20-minute timer and go for a walk and when it goes off, come back. It’s a really good way to break up your week and still stay active and motivated to do more.’

      But, for those who strongly dislike walking, cycling or hiking – don’t worry, you’re not alone! – there are some other options to get your LISS-fix:

      ‘A semi-fast yoga class you can do at home,’ is one option according to Itsines. Or, ‘you could even march on the spot while watching TV,’ she suggests.

      Try these LISS workouts:

      A two to five-kilometre walk, aiming for a pace between 8 and 10 minutes per kilometre depending on fitness levels.

      Hopping on a treadmill, cross-trainer or stationary exercise bike for 30-60 minutes at a moderate pace.

      A Vinyasa or ‘flow’ yoga class that keeps your heart rate between 40% and 60% of your maximum.

      Asoka Core Lite Yoga Mat

      Yogi Eco-Friendly Non-Slip Double Sided Yoga Mat

      5. LISS vs. HIIT

      Unlike HIIT – where you go balls-to-the-wall switching between max-effort bursts and short recovery periods – LISS is all about exercising at a slow and steady pace that burns fat over other energy sources, such as carbohydrates or food.

      ‘HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) alternates between powerful, limit-pushing bursts and slowed-down recovery periods, while LISS helps you achieve longevity in your training,’ explains Michelle Morrey.

      6. Why is LISS good for fat burning?

      Itsines frequently recommends LISS as part of her training programmes – citing the fact that LISS exercises such as walking burn the most fat per calorie when compared to jogging, running and sprinting.

      ‘In order to metabolise fat the body needs oxygen and the lower the intensity, the more oxygen is available to be used by the body to break down fat,’ Itsines explains. When you’re jogging or sprinting, less oxygen is available meaning that your body will use other energy sources, such as carbohydrates, for energy instead of fat.’

      Bear in mind, however, HIIT does still burn fat, as well as helping with muscle adaptations – plus it burns more calories in a shorter space of time, so if you can’t find the time for a full LISS workout, then HIIT is a great alternative.

      7. How much LISS should I do a week?

      At WH, we encourage you to experiment with your exercises and try out new workouts that will get your heart rate going – do make sure you see your GP if you have a condition, are pregnant, or are feeling under the weather – but working out is also about balance and finding out what’s good for you.

      ‘Ideally, only 20% of your workouts should be high-intensity,’ says Morrey. ‘Whether you’re an Olympic athlete or a mum, it’s the same. Say you work out five times a week, only two sessions should be HIIT. If HIIT is not carefully controlled, it can lead to injury.’

      The good thing about LISS is that it’s an easy, accessible and family-friendly way to keep fit and healthy.

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      8. Who is LISS good for?

      Luke Worthington, PT, Nike trainer and sports scientist, breaks down exactly why LISS isn’t just ‘the easy option out’:

      ‘TypicallyHIIT sessions have appealed to those who are time-poor people who need to fit in a short and effective workout. But, HIIT can actually cause more pressure as it’s a high-stress mode of exercise for the body but also for the mind and the nervous system.”

      So from this perspective, LISS may actually be best for those with stressful lives and could benefit more from a low octane, long duration exercise session that is more calming for the parasympathetic nervous system as well as causing less damage to the body,’ says Worthington.

      Morrey agrees with LISS being something that could benefit the vast majority of people but also something that’s gaining in popularity traction too:

      ‘There’s been a pendulum shift, which I’ve seen all over the world. Sport science is changing, and we’re realising that over-stressing the body is not beneficial and can lead to injury and sickness,’ she says.

      9. So, is LISS cardio good?

      It’s a resounding yes from all experts. In fact, Worthington tells us that he prescribes LISS workouts to almost all of his celebrity clients, including Dakota Johnson. They’ll do ‘LISS cardio, like a 60-minute walk, on non-workout days, around three times a week,’ he tells WH.

      This article by Bridie Wilkins and Morgan Fargo was originally published on Women’s Health UK. More

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      4 Easy Exercises You Can’t Ignore If You’re Walking For Weight Loss

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      There’s more to good walking form than standing up straight. Proper foot alignment and a powerful push-off keep you walking longer and stronger. First, use this simple test to find out how fit you are, then make good technique second nature with these exercises from Dr Suki Munseli, developer of Dynamic Walking.

      1. Shirt pull

      Why it’s crucial: Lengthens spine to prevent slumping.

      Cross your arms at the wrists in front of your waist and raise your arms, as if you’re pulling a shirt up and over your head. Grow taller as you reach up. Lower your arms, letting your shoulders drop into place. Repeat frequently during a walk to avoid back tightness.

      READ MORE: 18 New Running Shoes To Help You Run Faster And Farther In 2024

      2. Pendulum swing

      Why it’s crucial: Keeps hips lifted for a smooth stride.

      Holding onto something for support, like the back of a chair, balance on your right leg and swing your left leg forward and backward eight to 10 times without touching your foot to the ground. Repeat, this time swinging your right leg.

      3. Heel-toe roll

      Why it’s crucial: Realigns feet and knees.

      Stand with your feet parallel, one shoe-width apart. With your knees slightly bent, roll from heel to toe eight to 10 times, rocking back and forth down the centre of your feet.

      READ MORE: Walking For Weight Loss: Does It Work? Plus, 9 Tips To Get You There

      4. Kick sand

      Why it’s crucial: Increases push-off power.

      Standing tall, scrape the ground with one foot as if to kick sand behind you, like a dog digging a hole. Use your whole leg, from the hip to the butt. Don’t lean forward too much. Repeat six times on each side.

      Here are five ways to burn more fat during your walking workouts. Plus, we’ve got the beginner guide: how to lose weight with running!

      Originally published in Prevention’s Walking For Weight Loss. More

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      This Simple One-Minute Fitness Test Will Help You Reach Your Goals

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      If your goal is to get fitter and stronger, you’re going to need a benchmark. This quick and simple fitness test will show you where you’re at. 

      So. The push-up. It’s an upper-body move that sculpts your arms, right? Correct. But did you know that it also tones your abs and butt? True story! When done correctly, a no-knees push-up is actually a killer total-body toner. Yes, it’s amazing for working your arms and chest (hello, perkier boobs!) but to maintain your body position, you also need to engage your core and squeeze those glutes. Relax the glutes and your bum sticks up in the air. Relax your tummy muscles and you’ll start to sag like you’re humping the ground. Not your most attractive moment.

      READ MORE: This Explosive 15-Minute Workout Gets It All Done – Fast

      The One-Minute Fitness Test

      Since the push-up is such a killer full-body move, it’s also a good way to test your muscle endurance, a key component of muscular fitness.

      Take The One-Minute Push-Up Fitness TestThe test is easy, quick and you can do it at home.

      Set a timer for one minute.

      Do as many push-ups as you can with good form in a minute. The key here is quality over quantity. If you’re losing form, take a quick break, then carry on again. Make a note of how many you were able to clock and see how much better you can get over time.

      Looking for more inspo on your wellness journey? Try one of these 20 Fitness Apps to get started. More

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      Step Into Your Best Shape With The WH Walking Challenge

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      Starting a new exercise programme can be daunting. We get that! And it’s why we’re so excited about the Women’s Health Big Book of Walking Workouts, which proves once and for all that you don’t have to overhaul your entire life to meet your weight loss and fitness goals – you simply have to put one foot in front of the other.

      The WH Walking Challenge is a six-week programme that gives you weekly walking targets, plus workouts to keep you strong and fit. Let’s get moving!

      How To Get Started

      All you need is a good pair of walking shoes for major fitness gains! But following a few basic tips can make your walking challenge experience a whole lot more comfortable and enjoyable.

      Eat a small snack before you set out. To eat or not to eat before exercise is a matter of personal preference, but a big breakfast will likely weigh you down and you don’t want to get a stitch! Have a small snack, like a banana, a small yoghurt or half a slice of toast with peanut butter, and save brekkie for when you get home.

      Drink a glass of water. Your body will be dehydrated after a night’s sleep so drink one glass of water to keep you hydrated during your walk, but not desperate for the loo!

      Start slowly. Because walking is a low-impact activity, there’s no need to do a long warm-up. Simply start at a slow pace for five to ten minutes and pick it up once your body has warmed up.

      Wear reflective gear. If you’re new to walking on the road for exercise, make sure you wear bright and preferably reflective clothing. It’s still gloomy in the early mornings.

      READ MORE: 4 Easy Exercises You Can’t Ignore If You’re Walking For Weight Loss

      Find Your Fitness

      When you start the walking challenge, it’s good to know your fitness level so you can see how you improve over time. Dr James Rippe, a professor of biomedical sciences, developed the following formula to help walkers assess their fitness by age. Walk 1.6km (a mile) as quickly as you can, then compare your time: If you exceed the ideal time for your age group by three to six minutes or more, you’re not in the best shape aerobically. But don’t worry; just keep walking. Exercising consistently can lower your time.

      Under 30 years: If you can walk 1.6km in 13 minutes or less, you’re in great shape!

      30-39 years: 14 minutes means you’re in good cardio health!

      40-59 years: 14-15 minutes means you’re in peak condition.

      60-69 years: 15 minutes is an excellent pace!

      70+ years: If you can walk it in 18 minutes or so, you’re very fit.

      The WH Walking Challenge

      Follow the six-week plan below, designed by international trainer Leigh Crews, to get fitter and tone up your legs, tummy and bum. If you don’t have access to hills or stairs within your 5km radius, do a brisk pace walk for those sessions instead. Print this plan or screen grab it and save it on your phone for easy access.

      Jiggle-Blasting Strength Moves

      Do these in addition to your walk on days 3, 5 and 7 of the walking challenge. Use your walk as your warm-up, then do these moves when you get home. A set is 8-12 reps unless otherwise indicated.

      Glute Bridge

      How to: Lie on your back with feet flat against the floor and knees bent. Squeeze your glutes and lift your hips off of the floor until your body forms a straight line from your knees to your shoulders. Pause at the top, then lower back down to the starting position.

      Reverse Lunge With Twist

      How to: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with sliders under your feet, and hands behind your head. Slide back with your right leg and lower until your left knee is bent 90 degrees. Keeping your hands behind your head, twist your body to the left. Return to centre, then push through your left foot to return to start. That’s one rep.

      Lying Hamstring Curl

      How to: Start lying on back with knees bent, feet on top of a towel or paper. Engage core, then press into heels and squeeze glutes to raise hips toward the ceiling. Hold the position as you extend legs to straight. Reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. 

      Weighted Fire Hydrant

      How to: Get on all fours on top of your mat. Tuck a two to six-kilo dumbbell in the crease of your right knee. Keeping that leg bent at 90 degrees, lift it out to the side, stopping at hip height. Return to start. That’s one rep.

      Heat It Up Hill Walk

      This workout incorporates inclines and specific intervals to help target your glute muscles while you walk. If you don’t have access to a hill or stairs, simply swap these sessions in the walking challenge for brisk-pace walks instead. You’ll still score major benefits!

      How It Works

      Walk for 30 minutes, hitting a hill, bridge or stairs if you can. Time how long it takes to go up a hill or staircase, then recover by walking on level ground for about half that time. For instance, if you took 40 seconds to get up a hill, recover for 20 seconds. Timing doesn’t have to be exact, but this is a good gauge. If you don’t have access to a hill, power walk as fast as you can for the incline parts, then slow your pace for the recovery.

      Follow this pattern for your 30-minute walk:

      PART 1: 5 minutes; Easy pace, like you’re window shopping

      PART 2: 5 minutes; Flat walk at a semi-brisk pace, like you’re walking with purpose.

      PART 3 (Repeat 5 times): 1:30 minutes incline or fast power walk; 1 minute flat or semi-brisk recovery walk. *Note: If your incline takes less than 1:30 minutes to the top, keep going up and down for this amount of time then walk on the flat for the recovery minute.

      PART 4: 5 minutes; Easy pace, like you’re window shopping

      Butt Shaper Walk

      Do this 35-35 minute routine on the stipulated days in the walking challenge programme, focusing on squeezing your bum. Try to keep that contraction in your glutes as you walk.

      READ MORE: DIY Your Own Butt Workout At Home With These 15 Moves From A Trainer

      How It Works

      Start walking at an easy, window-shopping pace. Gradually increase to a brisk, late-for-an-appointment pace over the next 10 minutes.

      Now stop walking and do drill 1 for 20 seconds. (Each week, add another 20 seconds until you’re doing the drill for a full five minutes by week 6.)

      Walk briskly for 5 minutes, then do drill 2 for 20 seconds. Follow this pattern until you’ve done all drills, each time followed by 5 minutes of brisk walking.

      After the last drill and subsequent 5-min brisk walk, stroll at an easy pace for four minutes.

      Drill 1: Speed Skater

      Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Sweep your left leg out to the side and jump. In one smooth motion, land on your left leg in a partial squat and swing your right leg diagonally behind you (shown). Then leap to the right, sweeping your left leg behind you. Continue jumping side to side until time is up.

      Drill 2: Long Lunge with Reach

      Take a long step forwards with your left leg (about 60 to 90cm) and bend your knees as you simultaneously lean forward from your hips and reach as though setting something on the ground next to your front foot. Press into your left foot, pull your hands back and stand up with feet together. Switch sides and repeat drill until time is up.

      Drill 3: Single-Leg Step-Down

      Stand with your left foot on a step or curb, right leg hanging off. Bend your hips and left knee to lower your right foot, gently tapping your right heel on the ground. Press into your left heel and straighten your leg, then repeat until halfway through the set. Switch legs and continue until time is up.

      Drill 4: Heel Walk

      Raise your toes off the ground and walk so you’re balancing on your heels only. Take short, quick steps and swing your arms naturally. Your pace will probably be slower than normal. Continue until the time is up.

      Extracted from the Women’s Health Big Book of Walking Workouts. More

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      Grab Your BFF For This Fun Buddy Workout That Tones *Everything*

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      Working out in summer can be as leisurely as you want it to be. You can spend an hour or more if that’s your idea of fun. But if a packed schedule or the idea of lazing by the pool is your priority, you’re going to need an action-packed high-intensity workout that works as hard as your calendar is. Enter: a power-packed buddy workout that you can do with a friend. Because who doesn’t like a bit of company?

      The buddy workout

      Our total-body buddy workout— designed by trainer Ashley Borden—will help you tap into the science-backed source of better results: having a friend while you sweat. It consists of five mini-challenges, which make up a circuit that will strengthen your arms, shoulders, and back, sculpt your thighs and glutes, tone your core, and boost your cardio endurance. The buddy workout was created to hit sticking points that you might struggle with or rush through if you were on your own. (All of the exercises can technically be done solo, but you’ll find that banging them out as a twosome takes it to a whole new level, especially when you’re feeling more social in summer).

      If you and your buddy have different abilities, no worries—we’re one step ahead of you. The plan is completely scalable, so you never have to worry about anyone being left behind. Sounds like a vibe? Let’s get to it.

      1. Partner Pull-ups

      Loop a resistance band around a chin up bar; place knees in the loop and grab the bar with an overhand grip, arms completely straight (1). Bend your elbows and pull your shoulder blades together to pull your chest toward the bar (2). Slowly return to start. That’s 1 rep. Before you begin, start a timer. Do 8 reps, then rest for the remainder of the minute. At the start of the next minute, repeat the same pattern. Continue for a total of 8 minutes.

      READ MORE: Do This Cardio Workout At Home To Burn Cals And Boost Your Mood

      2. Team Burpees

      Stand with arms at sides (1), then squat (2) to place hands on floor and quickly jump feet back into a push-up position; bend elbows to lower chest toward floor (3). Reverse movement to return to standing. That’s 1 rep. Do 25, keeping tempo with your partner. If either person needs to pause, hold a glute bridge together until both are ready to start again.

      READ MORE: DIY Your Own Butt Workout At Home With These 15 Moves From A Trainer

      3. Tempo Step-Downs

      Stand on box or bench, feet together and hands on hips (1). Slowly bend your right knee to step down and touch the floor with your left foot (2). Quickly step back up to the starting position. That’s 1 rep. Switch legs and repeat on the other side; continue alternating, keeping pace with your partner, for a total of 40 alternating step-downs.

      4. Overhead Plate-Hold Challenge

      Grab a heavy-weight plate and hold with both hands at arm’s length. Keeping legs straight and core tight, raise weight directly overhead, arms next to ears (A). Face each other and compete to see who can hold the longest.

      READ MORE: What Is Cozy Cardio On TikTok? Trainers Weigh In On The Comfy Workout Trend

      5. Follow-The-Leader Cardio

      Agree on a piece of cardio equipment (bike, rower, skipping rope, speed runs) and grab two next to each other. Partner A sets a pace that’s challenging for both to hold for one minute. Rest one minute. Partner B sets the pace for one minute. Rest one minute. Continue for 16 more minutes.

      This story was written by Jen Ator and was first published in Women’s Health Magazine in March 2019. More

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      This Totally Explosive Workout Will Help You Burn Fat In No Time At All

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      Want a shortcut to fat burning? Two words: progressive plyometrics. This total-body explosive workout from Shaun T, Insanity creator and author of T Is For Transformation, includes lots of jumping (the plyometric part) and builds in intensity (the progressive part) to give you great results fast.

      The routine gets harder as your body “wakes up” on a neuromuscular level. In other words, as you warm up and become more coordinated, you’re better prepared for the next move. Plyos (any explosive workout) spike your heart rate to burn serious kilojoules while activating your fast-twitch muscle fibres to improve strength. Because your upper- and lower-body muscles are working in tandem, your deep core muscles fire over time.

      The Workout

      Time: 15 MinutesEquipment: None

      Instructions: Do this circuit in order, performing each exercise for one minute before moving on without resting. After you’ve completed all four moves, rest for up to one minute, then repeat twice for three total sets. Let the fat-burning begin…

      READ MORE: Do This Cardio Workout At Home To Burn Cals And Boost Your Mood

      1. Back fly with alternating knee-up

      Stand, then jump your feet out slightly wider than your shoulders as you bring your arms out to the side to form 90-degree angles, squeezing your shoulder blades together (A). Hop on your left leg as you lift your right knee up to your torso; bring your elbows toward your thigh (B). Lower your leg; repeat on the other side. That’s one rep; continue alternating.

      2. Lunge with core rotation

      Start in a lunge, with your right leg bent at 90 degrees and left leg extended behind you, and place both hands next to the inside of your right foot (A). Lift your torso as you bring your hands to shoulder height and twist to the right (B). Lower your hands to return to start; repeat on the other side. That’s one rep; continue alternating.

      READ MORE: These Strength And Cross-Training Workouts Will Improve Your Running

      3. Sumo squat jump with alternating punch

      Start in a sumo squat with your feet wider than your shoulders and your toes pointed out, elbows bent and palms facing you just below your chin (A). Jump off the floor as you push your left arm directly in front of you (B), then bring your hand back toward your face to return to start. Repeat on the other side. That’s one rep; continue alternating.

      4. Jump lunge to squat

      Start in a lunge with your left leg in front and knees bent at 90 degrees, elbows bent (A). Jump as you switch your arms and legs, landing in a lunge with your right foot forward (B). Jump to bring your feet parallel as you lower into a squat; touch the floor (C). Step your left foot back; repeat on the other side. That’s one rep; continue alternating.

      READ MORE: A Quick Resistance Band Arm Workout You Can Do At Home

      Excerpted from the Women’s Health Little Book of 15-Minute Workouts. More

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      What Is The 75 Hard Challenge—And Is It Safe? Trainers Break Down The Pros And Cons

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      If there’s one thing I love, it’s a challenge. But some are a little more extreme, especially when it comes to kickstarting a health and wellness journey. You’ve likely seen the 12-3-30 treadmill workout and Dukan Diet trending on social media, for instance. But today’s viral obsession is: the 75 Hard Challenge.

      If you aren’t familiar, this 75-day plan boasts to “permanently change your life,” starting from the inside out with a special focus on mental toughness and commitment, says Gina Newton, a certified personal trainer and holistic body coach. Unlike other nutrition plans or fitness regimens, 75 Hard is less about specifics and focuses more broadly on self-improvement with six arbitrary “rules,” she explains.

      With 1.3 million hashtags for #75hard and over a billion views on TikTok, it’s natural to wonder if 75 Hard is safe, effective and worth your time. “Some people thrive on rules and this sort of strict challenge, but if reading the rules sends you into an emotional frenzy, it may not be the best challenge for you,” says Cara D’Orazio, a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor.

      Meet the experts: Cara D’Orazio is a certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor and founder of C.G.M Fitness, Inc. Gina Newton is a certified personal trainer and holistic body coach.

      Intrigued? Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about 75 Hard—including the rules, benefits and potential risks.

      What is the 75 Hard Challenge?

      The 75 Hard Challenge was created in 2019 by Andy Frisella, a public speaker, entrepreneur and podcast host. At its core, the system is slated as a “transformational toughness program” that combines elements of nutrition, fitness and self-improvement, explains D’Orazio. It’s not a specific diet or exercise plan, but rather an “Ironman for your brain,” per the 75 Hard website, that focuses on five main pillars:

      Nutrition

      Movement

      Self-evolution

      Hydration

      Mental discipline

      To break it down a bit more, Frisella explains that he developed the challenge for mental toughness and discipline.

      “The goal is to become immersed in healthy eating and fitness so they become a part of our everyday lives,” says D’Orazio. According to the methodology, if a participant can stick out 75 days of the challenge, they can then apply the mentality to other life situations, ultimately making them less apt to quitting, she explains.

      So why is the challenge so popular, you ask? “The 75 Hard has garnered interest because it can look like a ‘quick fix,’” says Newton. “For 75 days you follow the outline of the requirements and there are many examples from those who have done it showing substantial and/or significant weight loss and physical transformation,” she explains. According to the challenge website, over a million people around the world have successfully completed 75 Hard.

      The 75 Hard Challenge Rules

      The 75 Hard Challenge consists of the following six non-negotiable rules which are intended to be complete for 75 days straight.

      No skip days. The key format of the challenge is that if you skip a day or any of the rules, you *must* start over. Even if you miss one of the five following tasks on a given day, you must restart to day one, says D’Orazio. “This was intended for the sake of not tweaking or compromising the rules, as this can open the door to quitting,” she says.

      Follow a diet. Stick to a diet with zero alcohol and no cheat meals. The diet itself is up to you and can vary depending on your goals, but whether it’s intermittent fasting, keto, plant-based, or paleo, the challenge requires you to follow a set and strict meal plan for 75 days straight, says D’Orazio.

      Complete two 45-minute workouts a day, one of which is outside. Rain or shine, 75 Hard requires one 45-minute workout in the morning and one 45-minute workout in the afternoon. It’s up to you which workout is outside, but the rules state one must be outdoors, explains D’Orazio. “The purpose of this is to get people to commit and not throw in the towel even if conditions aren’t perfect,” she says.

      Drink a gallon of water. This one is pretty self-explanatory, but 75 Hard emphasises hydration and requires a gallon (around 3.7L) of water a day.

      Read 10 pages of nonfiction. In the name of inspiration, education and self-improvement, you’re tasked with reading 10 pages of nonfiction a day, says D’Orazio. And nope, it *cannot* be an eBook or audiobook. It must be a physical copy.

      Take daily progress pictures. Get your camera out because the challenge requires a daily progress pic, says D’Orazio. The full-body photo is intended to track progress and maintain accountability.

      Benefits Of 75 Hard

      Accountability. Because 75 Hard is strict in its rules and structure, it can hold you accountable for its entirety, says D’Orazio. “When the going gets tough, it can help those who would have probably quit stick to a routine,” she says.

      Structure. Given the simplicity of the rules, the structure is easy to follow and understand, says Newton. The consistent structure can also provide a sense of direction and encourage healthy habit-forming behaviour like hydration and daily movement, she adds.

      Holistic approach. The program entails both physical and mental commitment, so it can provide a more holistic or well-rounded approach to wellness, says D’Orazio. As Frisella has previously mentioned, 75 Hard doesn’t sell itself on a single idea or magic solution to health and well-being. Instead, the concept is to reboot your lifestyle and encourage optimal nutrition, daily fitness and self-improvement.

      Customisable. Unlike other challenges or diet plans, 75 Hard offers an element of choice, depending on your goals, says Newton. You choose the diet that best suits you, the non-fiction book you like to read and the exercise you most enjoy. As long as you’re sticking to the six general rules, the specifics are up to you.

      Physical endurance. Whether you’re looking to gain strength, boost cardio, or lose weight, working out twice a day for 75 days straight will improve your overall fitness, says Newton. Not to mention, it fulfils the US Department of Health’s recommendation of 75 to 300 minutes of exercise per week, adds D’Orazio.

      Is 75 Hard Safe?

      Like anything, the safety of the 75 Hard challenge depends on the individual, says D’Orazio. “If the individual is new to fitness, the two 45-minute workouts back to back may be too much in a day and I truly feel one to two days of rest per week is crucial to avoid injury,” she explains. People with heart conditions, chronic illness, or existing injuries should also always consult with a healthcare provider before embarking on the challenge, she adds.

      On top of that, 75 Hard can be a major shock to the system if you’ve never actively or routinely focused on nutrition, hydration, and/or fitness, says Newton. “Listen to your body and change course when you need to, you won’t get in trouble,” she explains. If the plan becomes too hard to follow and you want or need to stop, that’s okay. It doesn’t mean you’re weak, your body just isn’t quite ready for it, she adds.

      Remember that safety is most important. If you’re extremely fatigued and/or have persistent aches, pains, or injuries, stop the challenge and talk with a doctor, says D’Orazio. And if weather conditions are treacherous, stay inside for both workouts, she adds. No challenge is worth an injury.

      It’s also worth noting that those with a history of disordered eating should be cautious with the 75 Hard challenge, says D’Orazio. The program’s strict diet regimen, exercise habits and progress photos could be triggering, especially if you miss a day or rule, she explains. Instead, focus on sustainable lifestyle modifications and find a workout you enjoy.

      Possible Risks Of 75 Hard

      Your mental health may take a toll. This challenge is an all-or-nothing mentality and the average person may not have the time or resources to commit to the six rules for 75 days straight, says D’Orazio. “Psychologically, it can be damaging to get past day 50 and have something unavoidable happen in life and need to start all over again,” she explains. The challenge also perpetuates perfectionism and can lead to negative self-talk or feelings of inadequacy if you don’t make it through all 75 days, adds Newton.

      Extreme lifestyle changes aren’t necessarily sustainable. It may be difficult to overhaul your life and maintain several new habits at once, says Newton. “I don’t think it’s worth it or sustainable,” she explains. You may see results during or after the challenge, but the six rules aren’t necessarily feasible in the long run and could harm your idea of self-worth and progress, she explains. “I am an advocate for long-term solutions to health, not quick fixes.”

      There’s an increased risk of injury. Working out twice a day with no rest days can increase your risk of injury, whether you’re new to exercise or not, says D’Orazio. In fact, research shows that rest days give your body time to repair, rebuild and strengthen itself between workouts.

      The lack of flexibility can cause burnout. The 75 Hard challenge preaches rigid adherence to the six rules and any slip requires you to start over. As a result, the negative reinforcement or pass/fail criteria can add unnecessary stress, guilt and burnout, says Newton. “People need to be kinder to themselves, not harder on themselves.”

      Progress pictures aren’t the only way to measure success. Studies show that placing an overwhelming amount of importance on body image can lead to anxiety, depression and body dysmorphia. “The photos only show the outside and not what’s happening on the inside which is where the transformation really starts,” says Newton. If the pictures make you feel discouraged, toss ‘em.

      It promotes a negative diet culture. Although you’re allowed to select the diet you choose to follow, the concept of cheat days can be problematic, says Newton. “I wish the word ‘diet’ was removed from our nutritional vocabulary and the term ‘cheat meals’ would go away,” she explains. Instead of insinuating that you’re “bad” for enjoying certain types of food, it’s better to view food as fuel and focus on balance, she adds. If you’re concerned about nutrition, talk with your doctor or a registered dietitian.

      This article was written by Andi Breitowich and was first published by WomensHealthMag.com. More

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      in fitness and body

      How One Woman Lost Half Her Bodyweight – And Kept It Off

      by

      Inspiring stories reach us all the time – stories about grit and perseverance. And this story of how one woman lost half her bodyweight is for sure one of them. Here’s how school teacher Tanya Laubscher lost a whopping 105 kilograms – and kept it off.

      The Gain

      At 157 kg, Tanya Laubscher felt completely out of place in her own body. She’d avoid planes, social gatherings and strategically plotted her movements to avoid looking in mirrors as much as possible. “I think for someone at that size, [there are] struggles and things that they don’t realise. It’s tough to go for a hike with your friends when you’re that big or go on picnics,” says the 34-year-old. 

      Added to that, her health was in jeopardy: she was struggling with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), type 2 diabetes as well as depression. So she saw a doctor who recommended bariatric surgery as the best way to help her lose weight and reclaim her health.

      READ MORE: How To *Actually* Lose Belly Fat With Diet And Exercise

      How she lost half her bodyweight

      In March of 2020, Tanya’s journey began with bariatric surgery. Thereafter, she needed to completely overhaul her lifestyle to see results and slim down. To start, she worked with a dietician and opted to cut out refined foods, choosing to down protein shakes in the morning and snack on fruit and healthy foods throughout the day. Since her stomach had shrunk due to the surgery, Tanya prioritised protein and vegetables to give her body the nutrients it needed.

      She followed the advice of her psychologist to deal with emotional eating and identified her triggers, then found ways to avoid or work through them. She also needed to stay active to burn fat stores. To do that, she committed to walking at least 10,000 steps daily and cycled 10 kilometres twice a day on her stationary bike. It was no easy feat, but she kept at it. “[It] was quite difficult in the beginning but as you consistently do it, it does become part of your routine. And as you lose the weight, that also becomes a lot easier to do,” explains Tanya.

      READ MORE: How One Personal Trainer Lost 30kg – And Kept It Off

      The gains

      Over a year and a half, Tanya saw the fruits of her efforts and lost 30 kilograms, then 50, then 75. With each milestone, she made a point to celebrate in different ways. For a big reward, she flew to Cape Town to conquer Table Mountain; her very first plane trip. “That was a big one. I’d never flown before because I was too scared of fitting into the seats,” explains Tanya. Other rewards included getting a new piercing or a new tattoo. 

      Now at 105 kilograms lighter and countless hours spent exercising, Tanya is the happiest she’s been. Not only has she lost over half her bodyweight, but she’s happier, too. She no longer avoids mirrors and can hike to her heart’s content. “I walk and can go everywhere and I move freely,” she says. “And I have this joy! Spending some quality time outside, dancing and not hiding away from the world any more – those are the things that make life worthwhile.”

      READ MORE: Walking For Weight Loss: Does It Work? Plus, 9 Tips To Get You There

      Tanya’s weight loss tips

      Try A Specific Diet

      Tanya found that sticking to a specific way of eating helped her shed kilos. “If those are things that are possible for you, I would suggest applying that to your life.”

      Make Yourself Accountable 

      “Tell people what you’re busy with, why you’re doing it and ensure that your goals are set out for you. Most importantly, stick to them.”

      Set Rewards

      “I made sure to reward myself at the end of every milestone that I hit. It was a big thing for me.” More