A fitness influencer’s elaborate morning routine has gone viral, igniting a heated discussion online about the feasibility and potential downsides of such extreme regimens. Ashton Hall, a self-proclaimed fitness and business entrepreneur, shared a video showcasing his meticulously planned morning, which starts before 4 a.m. and includes everything from mouth taping and ice plunges to intense workouts and banana peel face massages. While some admire Hall’s dedication, many social media users are criticizing the routine as unrealistic, unsustainable, and even promoting “toxic productivity.”
Ashton Hall’s Viral Morning Routine: A Breakdown
Ashton Hall’s morning routine, documented in a now-viral video, begins at 3:52 a.m. and lasts for nearly six hours, ending around 9:30 a.m. Here’s a detailed look at the activities involved:
- 3:52 AM: Wakes up, removes mouth tape (a practice Hall claims improves sleep).
- 4:00 AM: Does push-ups on his balcony.
- 4:42 AM: Journals and watches motivational videos.
- 5:46 AM: Dips face in a bowl of ice water.
- 6:00 AM: Gets ready for the gym.
- 6:20 AM – 7:30 AM: Gym workout.
- 7:31 AM: Swims in the pool.
- 8:20 AM: Showers, eats a banana, and rubs the peel on his face.
- 9:00 AM: More ice water face dips.
- 9:26 AM: Breakfast of bacon, eggs, and avocado toast.
The video, initially posted on Instagram, gained even more traction after being shared on X (formerly Twitter), amassing millions of views and sparking widespread reactions.
Social Media Reacts: Ridicule, Skepticism, and Concern
The response to Hall’s routine has been largely critical, with many users questioning its practicality and purpose. Several points of contention have emerged:
- Time Stamps: Some viewers have pointed out inconsistencies in the video’s time stamps, suggesting that the routine may not be accurately portrayed or that certain activities are exaggerated for effect.
- Lack of Substance: Many critics argue that Hall’s routine appears to prioritize aesthetics and appearances over genuine productivity or well-being. Some users have stated that the influencer did nothing of substance after waking up and instead focused on generating clicks for the video.
- Unrealistic Expectations: Critics argue that the routine is unattainable for most people due to time constraints, financial limitations, and other real-life responsibilities. Users online have stated that the routine is unrealistic and exemplifies how to look productive while getting almost nothing done.
- Mouth Taping: The practice of mouth taping, which Hall includes in his routine, has also drawn scrutiny. While some influencers claim it can reduce snoring and improve sleep apnea, experts caution that it lacks strong scientific evidence and may pose health risks.
- Banana Peel Facials: Many people online found the act of rubbing a banana peel on his face humorous, and many questioned his commitment to the routine.
Even prominent figures and organizations have joined in the mockery, with MrBeast and Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund also creating similar content.
The Dark Side of Wellness Trends: Is ‘Optimal Health’ Making Us Sick?
Hall’s viral routine has reignited a broader conversation about the potential downsides of extreme wellness trends and the pressure to optimize every aspect of one’s life. Some experts warn that the relentless pursuit of “optimal health” can lead to:
- Obsessive Behavior: What begins as genuine self-care can spiral into an obsessive focus on peak performance, leading to anxiety and exhaustion.
- Sleep Deprivation: The pressure to wake up early for intense workouts or other activities can disrupt natural sleep patterns and increase cortisol levels.
- Ignoring Body Cues: Strict adherence to routines or diets can lead to ignoring hunger pangs or pushing through physical discomfort.
- The Wellness Paradox: The constant influx of conflicting information and advice from wellness gurus can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and less healthy than when they started.
- Negative Impact on Mental Health: Disruptions in daily routines can alter eating, exercise, and sleep habits which can increase feelings of anxiety and depression.
The Importance of Balanced and Sustainable Routines
While routines can be beneficial for mental and physical health, experts emphasize the importance of creating balanced and sustainable habits that align with individual needs and circumstances. A healthy morning routine should:
- Regulate the Sleep-Wake Cycle: Regular habits performed at a certain time of day can signal to the body that it’s time to wake up, helping to set the circadian rhythm.
- Establish Mood: Starting the day with activities that promote happiness or calmness can set a positive tone for the rest of the day.
- Provide a Sense of Achievement: Completing a task, even a simple one, can trigger a reward system in the brain and create a sense of accomplishment.
- Be Realistic and Sustainable: A routine should be tailored to individual schedules, preferences, and resources, and should not be overly restrictive or demanding.
Experts Weigh In: Is an Extreme Morning Routine Necessary?
While some studies suggest that routines are critical for sustaining healthy habits, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Experts emphasize the importance of finding a balance that works for each individual, rather than blindly following extreme trends.
“What my week really taught me was that we can be so blinded by the promises of ‘wellness’ gurus, we fail to see we may be well enough already,” writes Gurpreet Kharay, a doctor in Adelaide, Australia. “Wellness is subjective. If you are comfortable with your life, not abusing your body with toxins and achieving what you had set out to achieve, then that’s wellness isn’t it?”
Black Fitness Influencers: Promoting Health and Wellness in the Community
While Hall’s routine has drawn criticism, many other fitness influencers, including several prominent Black fitness figures, are promoting more balanced and accessible approaches to health and wellness. These influencers play a vital role in inspiring their audiences through strength training, fitness, and well-being, often advocating for mental health awareness and healthy lifestyles within the Black community.
Some notable Black fitness influencers include:
- Larry Wheels: Powerlifter and fitness enthusiast.
- Qimmah Russo: Fitness trainer and lifestyle coach.
- Massy Arias: Certified personal trainer and health coach.
- Brittne Babe: Fitness model and entrepreneur.
- George Bamfo Jr: Fitness trainer and motivational speaker.
- Toni Mitchell: Shares workouts at home and dietary health tips
- Annabella Hayes: Detailed at home and gym workouts
These influencers share tips on weightlifting, nutrition, and overall fitness, inspiring many to achieve their health goals.
Conclusion: Finding a Routine That Works for You
Ashton Hall’s viral morning routine has served as a catalyst for a much-needed discussion about the potential pitfalls of extreme wellness trends and the importance of finding a balanced and sustainable approach to health. While routines can be valuable for mental and physical well-being, it’s crucial to prioritize individual needs and circumstances, rather than blindly following unrealistic expectations. Ultimately, the best routine is one that promotes overall well-being without sacrificing joy, flexibility, or a good night’s sleep.
