Over the past few months, I have undertaken a cross country marathon as part of my CAS experience. Cross Country is a running event where people run long distances in nature. Being physically fit is just as important as doing well in school, but when I switched from MYP to DP, I didn’t focus much on my physical health. However, picking Cross Country for CAS let me work on it while I had the chance. Engaging in this activity allowed me to meet several important learning outcomes.
LO1 – Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth Through this cross country marathon experience, I was able to better understand my own physical abilities and limitations. While endurance over longer distances and maintaining a consistent pace proved to be strengths of mine, the activity exposed areas that I know I can improve upon going forward. Specifically, I realized that my breathing technique and running form would benefit from focusing on those skills in future trainings. Getting accurate feedback on how I can enhance my performance will be important for meeting new goals. This experience helped me critically reflect on myself in a way that will support continued self-improvement.
LO2 – Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills In training for and completing this marathon, I challenged myself far beyond what I deemed possible before embarking on this experience. Pushing to reach distances like the 5km run was completely unfamiliar and daunting at first but proved that I have an inner strength when I persevere. I also strengthened time management and planning skills through coordinating my running schedule with other commitments. Facing doubts and fatigue regularly built mental determination alongside physical stamina. This challenge allowed me to foster grit and believe in my capabilities, while also expanding skill sets that will help in my future goals and development.
LO4 – Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience Seeing through the weeks of build-up and multiple runs required self-motivation, especially on days when motivation wavered. However, observing my progress and found joy in accomplishing each run spurred me to give my best effort every session. Completing this lengthy personal challenge demonstrated that with focus and resolve, I have the dedication to achieve what may initially seem impossible. My commitment to bettering myself through this experience proves that with hard work, I can develop as a person in meaningful ways. This lesson will stick with me for taking on all upcoming CAS experience and beyond.
To conclude, this cross country marathon offered invaluable life lessons that will no doubt serve me well beyond school. I am proud of my perseverance, appreciate my strengthened time management skills, and feel motivated to continuously challenge myself and improve. My CAS experience truly allowed personal growth that I will carry forward.
