What is the 75 Hard Challenge and how can OS Maps help?

Published on 4 min read

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How to Complete the 75 Hard Challenge with OS Maps: Your Ultimate Outdoor Companion

Have you heard of the 75 Hard challenge? It’s a transformative programme designed to push your limits both physically and mentally. Created by entrepreneur Andy Frisella, 75 Hard has gone viral worldwide, inspiring millions to commit to building confidence, resilience, and mental toughness. The challenge isn’t about quick fixes; it’s about developing habits that strengthen self-belief, discipline, and grit. It’s a really difficult challenge.

In this post, we’ll show you how the OS Maps app can become your ultimate companion for planning the outdoor exercise element of the 75 Hard challenge, making it easier to stay on track and explore new routes while smashing your goals each day.

What is the 75 Hard Challenge?

The 75 Hard Challenge is about mental toughness, it’s not just a fitness challenge, it’s designed to build discipline, resilience, and consistency over 75 days. The rules are simple but strict, here’s what the email says if you choose to sign up (for free) through Andy’s website – so these are the official 75 Hard rules.

#75HARD RULES

☑️ Follow a diet.  This can be the diet of your choice, but it must be a structured plan designed with a physical improvement in mind.

☑️ You must complete two 45-minute workouts. One of those workouts MUST be outdoors.

☑️ Absolutely NO alcohol or cheat meals.

☑️ Take a progress picture every day.

☑️ Drink 1 gallon of water.

☑️ Read 10 pages of a book.  Audiobooks DO NOT COUNT.

ZERO COMPROMISE

ZERO SUBSTITUTION

You have until you go to sleep to complete the day.

If you fail, you MUST start over on Day 1.


Do you think you could do it? The outdoor workout requirement can be tricky, especially when the weather turns or you run out of ideas. That’s where OS Maps comes in to keep things interesting whether you want to cycle, run or hike your 45 minutes outdoors each day.

Gym With Us: OS Maps

Why OS Maps is Your Secret Weapon for 75 Hard

One of the toughest parts of 75 Hard is keeping your outdoor workouts fresh and motivating. Doing the same route every day can quickly feel repetitive, and bad weather or unfamiliar terrain can make it harder to stick to the plan. That’s where OS Maps comes in, it’s not just a navigation tool, it’s your ultimate partner for planning and enjoying outdoor exercise. Much more inspiring than trudging round the block for 45 minutes.

Here’s how OS Maps can genuinely help you succeed with outdoor workouts:

  • Endless route options: Instead of repeating the same walk or run, OS Maps lets you discover thousands of walking, hiking, and running routes near you. Whether you want a quick 30-minute walk or a challenging trail run, you’ll never run out of ideas.
  • Custom route planning: Got a busy day? Create a short route near home. Want to push yourself at the weekend? Plan a longer hike or cycle route. OS Maps gives you full control to tailor your workouts to your schedule and fitness level.
  • Detailed terrain info: No more surprises! Use 3D flythroughs and terrain details to check elevation and difficulty before you head out. This helps you choose routes that match your goals—whether that’s a gentle recovery walk or a hill climb for extra grit.
  • Offline access: Perfect for remote areas or when signal is patchy. You can stay on track even in the wildest spots, so nothing stops you from completing your outdoor workout.

Tips for Using OS Maps During 75 Hard

Track your progress: Save your routes and monitor your activity. Seeing your progress mapped out is a huge motivator and helps you stay accountable. Plus you’ll discover loads of new walks right from your doorstep you can do again and again even when you finish the challenge.

Plan ahead: Schedule your outdoor workouts for the week using OS Maps. This removes decision fatigue and keeps you consistent. You’ll be surprised, even in the city you can find great walks – City Walking Guides

Mix it up: Alternate between short walks, longer hikes at the weekend, and trail runs to keep things exciting and challenge different muscles. When time permits go further afield so you’re in woodland, by water or finding your nearest high points, to push those leg muscles.

girl having fun in the woods

Why OS Maps Beats Other Apps for 75 Hard

  1. Unmatched UK Coverage & Accuracy
    OS Maps uses official Ordnance Survey data, meaning you get the most detailed and reliable mapping for the UK. Other apps often rely on crowd-sourced routes, which can be incomplete or inaccurate—especially in rural areas.
  2. Custom Route Creation with Terrain Insights
    Unlike many fitness apps that focus on distance and pace, OS Maps lets you plan routes with terrain details, elevation profiles, and 3D flythroughs. This is perfect for 75 Hard because you can choose routes that match your fitness goals—whether you want a flat recovery walk or a challenging hill climb.
  3. Offline Access for Remote Adventures
    Many apps require a strong signal to function properly. OS Maps allows you to download maps and routes for offline use, so you can stick to your challenge even in remote areas or during poor connectivity.
  4. Multi-Activity Support
    OS Maps isn’t just for walking or running—it supports hiking, cycling, and even wild routes. This flexibility helps you mix up your outdoor workouts, which is key for staying motivated during 75 Hard.
  5. Safety Features & Trusted Data
    OS Maps includes official rights of way, access land, and safety markers, reducing the risk of getting lost or trespassing. Other apps often lack this level of detail, which can be critical when you’re exploring new routes.

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route

Ready to explore but not sure where to start? Find the best route near you.

OS Maps


Is 75 Hard too hard for most people?

friends looking at OS Maps App by a finger post

For many people the time commitment alone of 75 Hard is enough to put them off or fail a few weeks in, so why not try our much softer OS 26 Challenge which is designed to help you to become a better hiker. Our 26 challenges for 2026 are designed to improve your mental and physical wellbeing but in a way that you choose and at your pace. Quite a far shout from the time and will power need for 75 Hard! Have a look through the challenges and see if there’s a set of goals you can achieve this year.


Ready to Start 75 Hard?

Don’t let the outdoor workout requirement hold you back. Download OS Maps today and make your 75 Hard journey easier, more enjoyable, and full of adventure.

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Get more from the outdoors with OS Maps. Whether you’re planning a mountain hike, taking the kids for a woodland bike ride, or looking to discover a new local adventure, OS Maps helps you explore with more confidence.

Discover thousands of ready-made routes from outdoor experts; view & download maps directly to your phone, or print from your computer.
With trusted mapping, route planning tools & features, created by Ordnance Survey; OS Maps helps you make the most of your time outside.

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Ordnance Survey are the experts in mapping. Shop our selection of UK Maps for hiking, walking and your next outdoor adventure. Plus don’t miss our selection of essential walking guidebooks.

Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the UK’s National Parks or enjoying a serene coastal getaway, our paper maps are your indispensable travel companion.

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