Find Your Fit - Train with Purpose
Health & Fitness Expert Clare Stobart
TRAIN WITH PURPOSE:
The Power of a Fitness Challenge
Setting a fitness challenge is one of the most powerful ways to stay motivated, focused and consistent with your training. I experienced this firsthand after completing Conquer Fitness Level 7, a hybrid competition held at Alderley Park. It completely transformed how I approached my training.
This event felt even more meaningful because I competed alongside Kara, a powerhouse member of the CPASE team. That added layer of accountability pushed me to train harder than I might have on my own. Her strength and determination motivated me immensely. Sometimes, external motivation is exactly what you need to dig deeper. It wasn’t just about showing up for myself but for my teammate too.
Having an event in the diary gave my workouts a real purpose. Instead of exercising just to “stay fit and lean”, I was training for something specific. Every session had intent, whether building strength, improving endurance or pushing through fatigue. On the days when motivation dipped, we had each other to keep going. Training with someone creates structure, builds discipline and gives you a clear goal.
The atmosphere on the day, the challenge itself and the sense of achievement crossing the Level 7 finish line were incredible. It’s something that’s hard to replicate in everyday training. There’s a real buzz that comes from testing yourself, not necessarily against others, but against your own limits. It reminds you what your body is capable of and often pushes you further than you thought possible.
This is why I always encourage anyone on their fitness journey to set a challenge. It doesn’t have to be extreme; it just needs to excite you and give you something to work towards. That sense of achievement is what keeps people coming back for more.
Another event I love is HYROX. Whether you compete solo, in doubles or as part of a relay, it’s an incredible experience. From the crowd’s energy to the finish line feeling, every moment is charged with adrenaline. My next personal challenge is HYROX Malaga, which I’m already training hard for, giving me that same focus and purpose in my sessions.
There are also plenty of local events to get involved in. Level 7 returns to Alderley Park on 26th–27th September 2026.
If running is more your style, Tatton Park offers regular 5k and 10k events, perfect for chasing a personal best. My personal favourite is the Colshaw Hall 10k on 14th June 2026, a scenic rural race passing the iconic Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank.
For longer distances, the Cheshire Half Marathon at Capesthorne Hall on 13th September 2026 is a flat, fast course ideal for achieving a PB. The Barclays Knutsford 10k on 27th September is another great option and one of the fastest courses in the North West.
If you’re ready for a bigger goal, the Manchester Marathon in April 2027 offers an unbeatable atmosphere and gives you plenty of time to prepare.
Ultimately, setting a fitness challenge isn’t just about the event; it’s about the journey. It gives you direction, builds consistency and brings excitement back into your routine.
And when you cross that finish line, whatever it may be, that feeling is always worth it.
Dates for your fitness diary:
Tatton Park – Wild Hybrid - 30th May 2026
Tatton Park 5k & 10k Run - 13th June, 1st July, 18th July, 8th August, 2nd September 2026
Colshaw Hall 10K - 14th June 2026
Cheshire Half Marathon - 13th September 2026
LEVEL 7 - 26th-27th September 2026
Barclays 10K - 27th September 2026
HYROX NEC - 27th October - 1st November 2026
Manchester Marathon - 27th September 2027
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