Introduction: Our school hosted a cross country run for the students, therefore as a part of my CAS activity and the eager & interest in running, I participated in my school’s cross country run. The event was held over three days(Date: , beginning with two 3 km runs and ending with a 5 km run.

This was significantly different from my typical training routine, and it put me to the test in new ways. Strength training focusses on muscle development and rapid bursts of energy, whereas running demands endurance, timing, and consistency over time. Participating in these races allowed me to stretch myself beyond my comfort zone while receiving the benefits of endurance training. I observed some tiny gains over the three days, such as feeling more comfortable maintaining my pace and breathing near the end of the 5 km run compared to the first 3 km run. While it was still difficult, I grew more conscious of my energy levels and how to use them efficiently.

Learning Outcomes:-

LO1 – Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth: This experience taught me that one of my strengths is tenacity, as I was able to keep pushing myself even when I was exhausted or wanted to give up. My knowledge in strength training provided me the willpower to keep going despite physical exhaustion. I also discovered that running with friends helped keep me motivated and consistent. At the same time, I noticed areas for improvement, namely stamina, pacing, and running technique. Running, unlike strength workouts, demands a balance of pace and endurance, and I realised I needed to improve on my consistency and breathing over longer distances.

LO2: Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills: Running three and five kilometres was difficult for me because I am not used to covering such large distances. I had to push through physical exhaustion while ignoring the mental impulse to stop. By doing so, I learnt new skills such as maintaining a steady pace, controlling my breathing, and motivating myself to continue. I also learnt to divide the run into smaller chunks in my mind, which helped me keep focused and motivated. These skills are useful not only for running, but also in other situations where I need to maintain discipline and perseverance.

LO4: Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience: Cross-country running required perseverance because there were times when quitting seemed easier. However, I made a commitment to complete both runs, no matter how far or difficult. My ability to maintain consistency over two days indicated my dedication to both the activity and my CAS quest. By showing up, putting in effort, and finishing the runs despite exhaustion, I demonstrated to myself that perseverance is essential for achieving success. This experience has motivated me to continue participating in future CAS activities as well as my own fitness routine.

Reflection:

Overall, this cross-country event became an important part of my CAS journey, helping me grow both physically and mentally. Pushing through distances I wasn’t used to showed me the value of perseverance, discipline, and stepping outside my comfort zone. The small improvements I noticed over the three days proved that commitment leads to progress. This experience has strengthened my confidence and inspired me to stay active, continue improving, and take on future CAS challenges with the same determination.