A fitness influencer’s elaborate morning routine, complete with mouth taping, ice baths, and banana peel facials, has gone viral, igniting a debate about the practicality and potential health implications of such extreme regimens. Ashton Hall, a self-proclaimed entrepreneur and fitness coach, shared a video showcasing his meticulously timed schedule, beginning before 4 a.m., amassing millions of views but also drawing criticism for its perceived absurdity and unrealistic nature.
The Viral Morning Routine: A Breakdown
Ashton Hall’s routine, documented in a now-viral video, involves a series of activities performed with precise timing.
- Early Wake-Up: Hall starts his day at 3:52 a.m.
- Mouth Taping: He removes black mouth tape, a practice promoted to encourage nasal breathing during sleep.
- Reflection: Hall spends a minute admiring himself in the mirror.
- Push-Ups: He does push-ups on his balcony for 13 minutes.
- Journaling: Hall journals for a period of time.
- Motivational Content: He watches videos and drinks water from a glass bottle.
- Cold Plunge: Hall dunks his head into a bowl of ice water.
- Gym and Cardio: He completes a gym session, which includes cardio.
- Swimming and Spa: Hall swims in the pool and relaxes in the spa.
- Banana Peel Facial: He eats a banana and rubs the peel on his face.
- More Cold Plunges: He dunks his head into ice water once again.
- Breakfast: Hall eats a breakfast of bacon, scrambled eggs, and avocado on toast.
Reactions and Criticisms
The influencer’s routine has elicited strong reactions, with many questioning its practicality and purpose.
- Unrealistic Expectations: Many users have criticized the routine as “not real life,” pointing out the irregular timestamps and unusual tasks.
- Performative Nature: Some suggest the routine is performative, designed for likes and clicks rather than genuine well-being.
- Time Management: Critics have noted that the routine seems to accomplish little besides exercise and eating, despite the early wake-up time.
- Questionable Practices: The unconventional practices, such as rubbing a banana peel on the face, have been met with amusement and skepticism.
Despite the criticisms, some have defended Hall, pointing out his success in gaining a large following and generating revenue through his content. They argue that he is inspiring others and making a living doing what he loves.
The Science (and Lack Thereof) Behind the Practices
Hall’s routine incorporates several practices that have gained popularity in wellness circles, but their scientific validity varies.
- Mouth Taping: While proponents claim it improves sleep and facial structure, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and it may pose health risks.
- Cold Water Immersion: Some studies suggest potential benefits like reduced muscle soreness and improved mood, but more research is needed, and it’s not suitable for everyone.
- Journaling: This practice can promote mindfulness and clear your head before the working day starts.
- Exercise: Studies have shown that early exercise provides an energy boost that will last through the day and make you more productive.
The Allure and Potential Pitfalls of Extreme Routines
The appeal of extreme morning routines lies in the promise of enhanced productivity, well-being, and self-discipline. However, experts caution against adopting such regimens without considering individual needs and potential drawbacks.
Benefits of Morning Routines
- Increased Productivity: Starting the day with clear goals can improve focus and efficiency.
- Improved Mental Clarity: Practices like meditation and journaling can promote mindfulness and reduce stress.
- Better Physical Health: Incorporating exercise into the morning can boost energy levels and promote healthier choices throughout the day.
- Establishing Healthy Habits: Sticking to a morning schedule can help develop lasting positive habits.
- Sets your circadian rhythm: A morning routine that regulates your sleep-wake cycle could be crucial for your mental health.
Potential Downsides of Extreme Routines
- Unrealistic Expectations: Attempting to replicate an influencer’s elaborate routine can lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure.
- Burnout: Overloading the morning with too many activities can be unsustainable and lead to burnout.
- Neglecting Individual Needs: An inflexible routine may not accommodate individual needs and preferences, leading to dissatisfaction.
- Mental Health: Excessive routines can have a negative effect on mental health.
Expert Perspectives on Building a Sustainable Morning Routine
Rather than striving for an extreme, one-size-fits-all routine, experts recommend a more personalized and balanced approach.
- Start Small: Begin with a few manageable activities and gradually add more as they become habits.
- Focus on Well-being: Prioritize activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, and healthy eating.
- Be Flexible: Allow for flexibility in the routine to accommodate changing needs and circumstances.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how the routine affects your energy levels, mood, and overall health, and adjust accordingly.
- Consult Professionals: Seek guidance from healthcare professionals or certified trainers to ensure the routine is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
Top Fitness Influencers:
While Ashton Hall has gained recent attention, many established fitness influencers offer more balanced and evidence-based approaches to health and wellness. Some of the top fitness influencers in 2024 include:
- Joe Wicks (The Body Coach): Known for his accessible workouts and focus on family fitness.
- Kayla Itsines: Creator of the Bikini Body Guide (BBG) program.
- Whitney Simmons: Advocates for self-love, self-acceptance, and mental well-being.
- Jeff Cavaliere (Athlean-X): Provides science-based workout tips and training advice.
- Chloe Ting: Offers approachable workout programs for beginners.
The Bottom Line:
Ashton Hall’s viral morning routine has sparked a valuable conversation about the pursuit of wellness and the potential pitfalls of extreme practices. While the allure of a meticulously timed schedule is understandable, it’s crucial to prioritize individual needs, scientific evidence, and a balanced approach to building a sustainable and healthy lifestyle.
