During the first year of my Diploma Programme studies, I took on a multitude of experiences via HDP Personal Sport to enhance and extend my physical repertoire. For starters, I was back on gymnastics — a realm of which I knew nothing. It took me an interesting way, using a lot of my flexibility and balancing ability. But based on shortage of participants in group gymnastics, I had to search for other sport to put my energy in. A whole new opportunity for personal growth, which I was excited to explore and further my skills in another field.

LO1 Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth:

Identifying my strength and weaknesses was pivotal. As I transitioned from gymnastics to athletics, I had to assess my physical abilities to choose the right events to focus on. Athletics presented a wide variety of options, but after thorough evaluation, I decided that my stamina and leg strength were not as developed as I’d like them to be. So this guided me to focus on two specific events: the 100m hurdles and shot put.

LO2 Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills:

The challenge was improving in areas that I’ve chosen. Main struggle was running. I decided to participate in 100m hurdles which required a lot of stamina. So in order to improve my running skills for this area I had to consistently work. Vigorous cardio sessions on the track and treadmill stretched my endurance. Just as crucial, however, was refining my technique through repetition, mindfully adjusting my form with each practice to streamline my motion over the barriers. Shot put too challenged me to hone an undeveloped strength. Concentrating on weight training targeted at my shoulders and core helped build the explosive power necessary to expand my throwing range. With focused dedication to comprehensively developing both new skills and talents

LO4 Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience:

Perseverance was crucial throughout this experience. Athletic preparation is all about gradual advancements, requiring patience. On days when motivation waned and goals seemed distant, I reminded myself that consistency leads wherever haste cannot. Slowly but surely, as trainings accumulated, endurance grew and techniques sharpened.