My First 10K Run: A Journey of Discovery, Gratitude, and Transformation

As the sun began to cast its gentle morning rays, I stood at the entrance of the Green Corridor, ready to embark on an adventure that would redefine my perception of self. The surroundings were serene, and the ambiance was filled with the promise of a great day ahead. In the following paragraphs, I want to share my journey, a rollercoaster of emotions, motivation, and, most importantly, gratitude.

The day started at 5:30 am – a time when most of the world was still wrapped in the warmth of their beds. Little did I know that the early hours held a surprise for me. Just as I was about to head out, the fire alarm in neighboring building blared, jolting me awake. While it may have seemed like an inconvenience at the time, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected wake-up call. It was almost as if the universe conspired to ensure that I didn't miss my first 10K run.

With a newfound sense of purpose, I laced up my running shoes and took the first step on my 10K journey. My initial thoughts were filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. "Could I really do this?" I wondered. The first kilometer was a bit of a struggle, and by the second kilometer, I found myself questioning my decision. Doubt crept in, but I pushed on.

By the third kilometer, something incredible happened – I hit my stride. The doubts that had been clouding my mind dissipated, and I was just running. The rhythm of my breath and the patter of my feet on the pavement became my companions.

Around the 4th kilometer, I started to enjoy it. The early fatigue gave way to a sense of exhilaration. By the time I hit 5 kilometers, I was in the zone – the elusive "runner's high" had enveloped me.

But what truly kept me going was the gratitude I felt towards my friend Minh Cong, who had invited me to participate in this run. His motivation and support had ignited a fire within me that I hadn't known existed. As I continued running, I realized that I was not only grateful to them but also to myself for not canceling the run at the first sign of doubt.

The 7th kilometer marked another significant moment as I once again felt the runner's high. It was a sensation of pure euphoria that urged me to keep going. The 8th kilometer was a testament to my determination, and the 9th kilometer was an opportunity for me to learn and refine my running posture, making the journey even more rewarding.

With just one kilometer to go, it was time to give it my all. I adopted a positive running strategy (last Km - 5'31"), telling myself that nothing was impossible. And before I knew it, I had reached the finish line.

My total run time was 1 hour, 10 minutes, and 27 seconds, with an average pace of 7'00". The feeling was indescribable – a mix of triumph, joy, and immense pride.

"Do you feel great? Do you feel amazing? Do you feel like nothing is impossible?" I asked myself rhetorically. The answer was a resounding "yes." This first step in my running journey had not only left me physically invigorated but also emotionally fulfilled.

As I reflect on this incredible experience, I can't help but feel immense gratitude for the unexpected twists that led me to my first 10K run. I'm no longer the person who wasted countless hours on video games and slept in until the afternoon. Thanks to my Ashi and the beautiful city of Singapore, I have embraced a healthier lifestyle.

We began with simple walks to the beach, transitioning to healthier eating habits, and slowly incorporating morning walks and cycling into our daily routine. It hasn't been without its challenges – there were "weak weeks," and the craving for junk food sometimes lingered. But the key, I've learned, is not to be too harsh on oneself and to focus on the benefits of these lifestyle changes.

So, I extend an invitation to all who read this – take your first steps toward a healthier you. Start with a run, challenge yourself to a 10K, plan for a 15K, or even set your sights on a half marathon. I promise you, the journey will change you in ways you can't imagine, and you'll love every moment of it. Your first 10K may be just the beginning of a remarkable transformation, both physically and emotionally.