I first heard about the 5×50 Challenge after the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014, when there was much buzz about legacy, inclusion, and getting people inspired and involved in more physical activity. In the organisers words:

5×50 Challenge started with a vision to make people who are inactive become more active. Challengers become part of something that inspires, motivates, encourages you to live a healthier lifestyle. 5×50 Challenges are open to all. Individuals or groups regardless of age, health condition/ disability or fitness level can take part.

The Challenge is focused on a commitment to daily activity – 5 kilometres for 50 consecutive days (that’s a little over 3 miles), although recently the clever 5×50 people have made the challenge more inclusive by introducing an exciting new range of ways to take part, including adding additional challenges throughout the year (so that’s 4 x 5 x 50!). You can swim, cycle, walk, roll, run, kayak, sun-salute or any other physically-active methods of your choice. You can go solo or get a squad together to make things a little more competitive/supportive!

I’m really looking forward to the Challenge starting in March. I’ve had a lazy start to 2017 and I do enjoy the motivation of having a target and a sustained campaign of activity – last year I scaled mountains, explored new trails, and even completed my first ever 5k run as part of the Challenge, which was quite an achievement for a non-runner (I’m more of a saunterer).

It was wonderful hearing about other people’s exploits too, with some using it to push themselves to the limit, and others using it as an opportunity to discover being active, and others still using it as a fundraising launchpad. The 5×50 team have fostered a wonderful community of loyal participants who come back year after year to participate.

Looking back at my 5×50 tweets from last year, I did a little bit of everything. It was mostly lunchtime walks with kayaking, cycling and hill-walking when the weather was kind, and treadmill running in the evening when the weather was in a mood. There was also the occasional bit of randomness with bubble football, trampolining and running about at youth clubs – I wonder if I can push the boat out with this years challenges and try something completely different?

If you’re looking for a challenge to keep you fit and active into Summer and beyond, then why not consider signing up? There is a £5 minimum donation for each challenge, and you could also turn it into a fundraising campaign for your favourite cause. I’d love to hear if you do get involved – let me know 🙂