In the image, we see a humorous and realistic depiction of my 75 Hard Challenge journey. The scene is set in an outdoor park where the weather ranges from sunny to rainy to snowy. The central character, embodying the hectic nature of the challenge, has six arms and is multitasking with grace and humor. They're engaged in various activities: jogging, walking a dog, reading a book, and holding healthy foods like fruits and vegetables. Despite the chaotic weather and the numerous tasks, the character wears a big smile, symbolizing the determination and positivity required to take on the 75 Hard Challenge.

Introduction

Today, I embark on a journey that some might call “insane” and others might call “Why would you do that to yourself?” Yes, I’m starting the 75 Hard challenge, a program that promises to make me mentally tough or, at the very least, hilariously grumpy. For those who know me, it’s no surprise—after all, I live my life with the same intensity as I like my espresso: strong, bold, and occasionally a bit too much. Welcome to “Espresso Intensity: My 75 Days of Madness and Muscle.”

What is the 75 Hard Challenge?

For the uninitiated (aka the sane), the 75 Hard challenge is a mental toughness program created by Andy Frisella. It involves five daily tasks designed to transform you into a disciplined machine (or a highly hydrated hermit):

  1. Follow a diet: No cheat meals or alcohol, which means saying goodbye to late-night snacks and weekend beers.
  2. Two 45-minute workouts: One of these workouts must be outside, so prepare for some quality time with your local squirrels.
  3. Drink a gallon of water: That’s right, I’ll be spending more time in the bathroom than anywhere else.
  4. Read 10 pages of a non-fiction book: Time to become a bookworm with a six-pack.
  5. Take a progress photo: Because nothing says motivation like seeing your own tired face every day.

Why I’m Doing This

You might be wondering, “Why would anyone willingly do this?” Well, it turns out, I’ve developed a taste for extreme self-improvement. Plus, who doesn’t want to challenge themselves to a point where a gallon of water feels like a small pond?

My Preparation

Preparing for this challenge felt a bit like gearing up for a marathon…while blindfolded. Here’s my master plan:

  • Diet Plan: I’m diving into a low-carb diet packed with extra protein, waving goodbye to most processed foods. I’ll be channeling my inner chef by cooking my own meals and significantly reducing my relationship with restaurants, takeouts, and Uber Eats.
  • Workout Schedule: I’m hitting the gym at least four times a week and adding some fun with three rounds of golf per week. Plus, I’ll be walking my dog every single day, rain or shine. Nothing says dedication like soggy shoes!
  • Reading List: I have a mountain of self-help books to conquer, promising to turn me into a motivational guru by the end of this journey.
  • Progress Tracking: While I won’t be bombarding you with daily selfies, I’ll do my best to capture an epic before-and-after shot once I’ve successfully completed the challenge.

Day 1: The Beginning

Ah, Day 1. The day where enthusiasm meets reality. The first workout? Sweaty. The water intake? Constant. The book? Surprisingly enlightening. Taking my first progress photo? Let’s just say, I’m glad it’s only for my eyes.

My Goals and Expectations

My goal is to emerge from this challenge as a mental titan with the patience of a saint. Or at least someone who can walk past a pizza without drooling. I expect to see physical changes, sure, but the real win will be when I can tell people, “Yeah, I did that,” without sounding utterly exhausted.

It also is a SMART goal, you can read more about those here

Conclusion

So here I go, diving headfirst into 75 days of fun, fitness, and far too many bathroom breaks. Follow along as I share my trials, triumphs, and the occasional temper tantrum. It’s going to be a wild ride with “Espresso Intensity: My 75 Days of Madness and Muscle.”