Why Cold Showers, Intermittent Fasting, and Early Mornings Are Trending Among Men
Across social media, podcasts, and wellness blogs, a clear trend has emerged: more men are embracing cold showers, intermittent fasting, and early mornings. These habits, once seen as extreme or outdated, are now becoming mainstream in men’s health and self-improvement circles. Driven by the pursuit of discipline, mental clarity, and optimized performance, men are turning to routines that challenge the body and sharpen the mind. Whether it’s influenced by influencers, Navy SEALs, or entrepreneurs, this trifecta of habits is gaining traction in 2025. What was once fringe advice is now fueling a movement. Here’s why these three practices are catching on.
1. Cold Showers Build Mental Toughness
Cold showers aren’t just a wake-up jolt—they’re being used as a tool to develop mental resilience. Stepping into cold water forces you out of your comfort zone and into the present moment. Many men report feeling more energized, focused, and mentally clear after just a few minutes under icy water. It’s also said to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and stimulate endorphin release. Fitness enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike tout cold showers as a quick way to “win the morning.” In a world full of distractions, this simple discomfort becomes a daily test of willpower.
2. Intermittent Fasting Offers Structure and Focus
Intermittent fasting has gone from a diet trend to a lifestyle for many men looking to simplify their routines and optimize their energy. By limiting eating to specific windows—such as 16:8 or 18:6—men are reducing calorie intake, improving insulin sensitivity, and experiencing improved mental clarity. Fasting appeals to those who prefer structure, discipline, and fewer decisions throughout the day. It also fits naturally into busy lifestyles, where skipping breakfast becomes a power move rather than a sacrifice. The fasting window becomes a productivity boost, not a burden. For men seeking sharper focus and leaner physiques, this habit checks all the boxes.
3. Early Mornings Fuel Productivity and Discipline
Waking up early has long been linked to high performance—and now, it’s a badge of honor in self-improvement circles. Many men are choosing to rise before the sun to get ahead of their day, build routines, and invest in personal goals. Early mornings offer quiet, uninterrupted time to read, work out, meditate, or tackle creative projects. Influencers and CEOs often credit early rising as a key to their success. This habit is about more than productivity—it’s about taking control of your time and building structure. The early hours create momentum that lasts the rest of the day.
4. A Shift Toward Stoicism and Simplicity
Behind the popularity of these habits lies a deeper shift toward stoicism and minimalist living. Cold showers, fasting, and waking early are simple acts that echo timeless principles—self-control, discomfort, and mastery over desire. They require no expensive equipment or apps, just consistency and mental commitment. Men are drawn to the challenge and the clarity these routines provide. In an age of overconsumption and constant noise, these habits act as a return to basics. The appeal is in their simplicity and the discipline they demand.
5. The Influence of High-Performers and Online Communities
Much of this trend has been fueled by online content from podcasters, authors, and performance coaches. Figures like Jocko Willink, Andrew Huberman, and David Goggins promote these habits as foundational to growth and grit. Social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok amplify the message, creating a sense of community and shared discipline. Men are encouraged not just to try these habits, but to track, share, and challenge themselves publicly. The online space turns daily discomfort into a lifestyle and identity. It’s not just a trend—it’s a movement built on shared values and results.
From Routine to Ritual
Cold showers, intermittent fasting, and early mornings may seem like small lifestyle changes, but for many men, they represent something bigger. These habits are daily rituals that promote discipline, resilience, and intentional living. In a world filled with comfort and distraction, they provide structure and control. They’re simple, but not easy—and that’s exactly why they work. The rise of these practices is about more than health; it’s about becoming better, stronger, and more focused every day. In 2025, the edge isn’t found in ease—it’s found in effort.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.