5K a day for 100 straight days: How I ran 500 kilometers and lived to tell the tale

“I think self-discipline is something, it’s like a muscle. The more you exercise it the stronger its gets.” -Daniel Goldstein

Part 1: The decision (Days 1-30)

I still remember the day I decided to take on this challenge. It wasn’t about losing weight or getting fit; it was about proving to myself that I could do anything I set my mind to. The real catalyst, however, was my fitness app's move ring. I had set a goal of 300KCAL and rarely reached it. I decided to run 5k and, to my surprise, I instantly closed my move ring. The satisfaction of seeing that dark red circle was addictive. I thought how great it would look if I could close the move ring for 100 consecutive days, each with a dark red circle.

Running 5 kilometers every day for 100 days seemed impossible, but I was determined to show myself that I had the caliber to achieve it. On March 19th, I began this journey with a clear goal in mind.

The first 30 days were a roller coaster. Initially, the excitement of a new challenge kept me going. I woke up every morning with a sense of purpose, lacing up my shoes and hitting the pavement. Along the way, I began to recognize familiar faces. There were elderly people who walked at the same time I ran, smiling warmly. Fellow runners exchanged nods of encouragement, and even the dogs who strolled with their owners seemed to cheer me on, often running alongside me for a stretch.

However, the honeymoon phase didn't last long. By the end of the first month, I started experiencing cramps. My muscles ached, and waking up early every day became increasingly challenging. But I pressed on, driven by my initial resolve and unwavering persistence.

Part 2: The Struggle (Days 31-60)

The second month was the toughest. My body was not yet used to the daily strain, and for almost 50% of the 100 days, I had cramps. Some mornings, it felt like my legs were made of lead. Despite the physical pain, my determination never wavered. There were days when I fell ill but still managed to run, even if it was at a slower pace.

These days were a test of my mental strength. I questioned myself often but remembered why I started. The familiar faces and wagging tails kept me going. Seeing the same smiles and receiving unspoken words of encouragement from other runners were small but significant motivators. My pace was low, but my spirit remained unbroken.

Part 3: The Breakthrough (Days 61-90)

Entering the third month, things began to change. My body started to adapt, and the cramps became less frequent. I found a rhythm, and running became almost second nature. My pace improved significantly; I went from averaging 9-10 minutes per kilometer to 6-7 minutes per kilometer.

The change wasn't just physical. Running became a form of meditation, a time to clear my mind and focus on nothing but the next step. I felt stronger, both mentally and physically. The bonds I formed with the morning walkers and fellow runners deepened, their silent support uplifting me every day.

Part 4: The Final Stretch (Days 91-100)

The last ten days were a mix of excitement and anticipation. I was so close to achieving what once seemed impossible. My weight had dropped from 77.8 kg to 72.1 kg (did not follow any diet), and I felt more energetic and alive than ever.

The final five days were the most exhilarating. Each morning, I woke up with a surge of adrenaline, knowing I was nearing the finish line. I felt a deep sense of pride knowing I had reached this far without giving up.

On the 100th day(26th June), as I completed my run, a wave of emotion washed over me. I had done it. I had run 5 kilometers every day for 100 days straight. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. I proved to myself that I could set my mind to something difficult and see it through to the end.

Epilogue

Looking back on my 100-day journey, I realize it was about much more than just running. It was a lesson in perseverance, discipline, and self-belief. I started this challenge to prove something to myself, and in the process, I gained so much more. I discovered strength I didn't know I had, made new connections, and improved my health significantly.

Check out the difference in my speed from when I started on March 19th to my run on June 19th. The screenshots of the stats show the remarkable progress I made.

This journey has shown me that we are all capable of achieving the impossible if we have the determination and support to keep going. Whether it's running, a personal goal, or a professional challenge, the key is to start and to keep moving forward, one step at a time. The discipline I developed through this challenge has not only transformed my physical health but also enhanced my professional life. It has taught me the importance of consistency, resilience, and pushing through difficulties—qualities that are invaluable in any career.

Now that I've completed this activity, I've begun a new hobby for the next 100 days. I’ve completed 3 days so far. Will I reach 100 days? Only time will tell, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that persistence and determination can carry us through anything.

“Only the disciplined ones are free in life” -Eliud Kipchoge

Stats Recap:

• Starting pace: 9-10 minutes per kilometer
• Current pace: 6-7 minutes per kilometer
• Starting weight: 77.8 kg
• Current weight: 72.1 kg

Here's to the next challenge and the endless possibilities that lie ahead!