Essential Tools and Tips to Crush the 75 Hard Challenge

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Taking on the 75 Hard Challenge is no small feat—it’s about mental toughness, consistency, and pushing your boundaries. The secret to success? Setting yourself up with the right tools and strategies. Here’s a carefully curated list of essentials that’ll make your journey smoother, more manageable, and maybe even a little enjoyable!

1. Build a Routine

If there’s one thing that sets successful challengers apart, it’s a solid routine. When you carve out time for workouts or dedicate Sunday afternoons to meal prep, you’re not just completing tasks—you’re creating habits that make staying consistent way easier.

Pro Tip: Add your 75 Hard tasks to your daily schedule, and stick to them like an unbreakable appointment. Over time, they’ll become second nature.

2. A Journal or Planner

Tracking your progress is key to staying accountable. A planner or journal helps you map out your daily goals, monitor your achievements, and reflect on your wins (and challenges).

Pro Tip: Jot down a quick note at the end of each day about how you felt completing your tasks. It’s a great motivator to look back and see how far you’ve come.

3. Comfortable Workout Gear

With two workouts a day, you’ll need gear that can keep up. Invest in breathable, sweat-wicking clothing that moves with you, whether you’re crushing squats or powering through a brisk outdoor walk.

Pro Tip: Treat yourself to workout gear that makes you feel good—it’s amazing how a sleek outfit can boost your confidence and motivation.

4. New Shoes

Your feet are about to clock some serious mileage, so make sure they’re supported and comfy. A great pair of sneakers can make all the difference, especially for outdoor workouts.

Pro Tip: Get professionally fitted for running or cross-training shoes to avoid discomfort and prevent injuries.

5. A List of Books Ready to Go

Ten pages of non-fiction a day might sound easy until you hit the middle of Week 3 and realise you don’t have another book lined up. Prep a stack of motivational, self-development, or educational books before you start.

Pro Tip: Mix up topics to keep things interesting. One week might be about mindset, and the next could be about financial health or leadership.

6. A Progress Photo Routine

This one’s easy to forget, so make it a habit by stacking it with something you already do daily—like brushing your teeth. Snap your progress photo first thing in the morning, same spot, same lighting, same outfit (if possible).

Pro Tip: Seeing those small, daily changes adds up to big motivation as you progress. Stick to your routine—it’s worth it.

7. A Support System

Let’s be honest: there will be days when you want to quit. Having a buddy or community to lean on makes all the difference. Regular check-ins or even just sharing your struggles can make the challenge feel less daunting.

Pro Tip: Find a friend to do the challenge with or join an online group. The accountability and encouragement can carry you through the tough days.

8. A Cheat-Free Snack Stash

Cravings will strike—count on it. Avoid temptation by keeping compliant snacks on hand. Nuts, fresh fruit, hard-boiled eggs, or homemade protein bars can be lifesavers.

Pro Tip: Keep your snacks visible and easy to grab. Out of sight, out of mind works the opposite way, too—ditch the junk food from your cupboards.

9. A Reward System

Who doesn’t love a little incentive? Treat yourself to non-food rewards when you hit key milestones. New workout gear, a relaxing bath, or even a movie night can keep you motivated and focused.

Pro Tip: Plan rewards at intervals—Day 25, Day 50, and Day 75. They’ll give you something to look forward to along the way.

10. A Positive Mindset

It’s not always going to be easy, but your mindset is the game-changer. Focus on what you’re gaining, not what you’re giving up. Those little wins? Celebrate them. The tough days? Learn from them.

Pro Tip: Start each day with an affirmation or gratitude practice. Positivity fuels progress.

11. An Outdoor Workout Backup Plan

The weather doesn’t care about your goals, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss a workout. Have a go-to backup plan like bodyweight circuits, yoga, or YouTube workouts you can do outside under cover.

Pro Tip: Keep a list of free online workout videos that require no equipment—you’ll thank yourself when the weather turns.

12. A Meal Prep Game Plan

Okay, this one isn’t technically on the list, but it’s the unsung hero of 75 Hard. Plan and prep your meals to eliminate the guesswork during your busy week.

Pro Tip: Set aside a couple of hours on Sundays for bulk cooking. Make it fun—put on some music, grab your family, and turn meal prep into a ritual.

Ready to Take On the Challenge?

With these tools and tips in your arsenal, you’re not just surviving the 75 Hard Challenge—you’re thriving. Stick to your routine, lean on your support system, and remember: it’s about progress, not perfection.

You’ve got this! Now go crush it!