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Since January 2025, an old fitness trend has regained popularity among Gen Z and Millennials: the 75 Hard Challenge. The challenge consists of five daily tasks for 75 consecutive days. Tasks include:

• Following a strict diet with no cheat meals or alcohol
• Completing two 45-minute workouts (one of which must be outdoors)
• Drinking a gallon of water
• Reading 10 pages of a nonfiction book
• Taking a daily progress picture

The challenge can be a great form of self-discipline and have short-term results just in time for summer. Experts say that it can take anywhere from 21 to 90 days to turn these daily tasks into habits. The question remains if such short-term challenges are an effective way to combat the growing issue of obesity in America.

A new study published in The Lancet reveals a stark reality: Three-quarters of U.S. adults and half of adolescents are overweight or obese, a percentage expected to rise to 80% and 60%, respectively, within 25 years.

The clinical definition of obesity is having a body mass index of 30 or higher. It鈥檚 the excessive or abnormal accumulation of fat that presents a health risk. In other terms, it鈥檚 weighing more than what is healthy for your height.

Common health risks associated with obesity can potentially be life-threatening, including heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. Obesity can also impact your quality of life and can interfere with social and personal activities.

For people at risk of obesity, participating in a short-term fitness or weight loss challenge can be a great way to begin an effective long-term weight loss strategy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that short-term challenges may have the potential to gain a greater audience and hold a higher retention rate. The reason behind this is because it鈥檚 easier to stay focused on a goal when there鈥檚 a deadline.

The study also shows that most people achieve their greatest weight loss in the first three to six months of a lifestyle change. This could be due to several reasons, such as hormonal changes, water loss, changes in motivation and physiological adjustments.

Another fitness trend that surged in popularity among Gen Z toward the end of the pandemic is 鈥淩un Clubs.鈥� Initially, these clubs were used as a way to go outside, connect with others after quarantine or simply because people were tired of using dating apps. However, one Saturday would turn into two, two turned into three, and the next thing you know, it鈥檚 been five years since you started running.

Small starts can lead to lasting results if you stick with them.

Obesity has affected over 200 million Americans and counting. It鈥檚 important to maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, avoid processed foods and exercise regularly. Even if your health journey starts with a short-term fitness or weight loss challenge, it can help you build consistent habits, motivation and tangible progress that can lead to a new lifestyle for life.

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