News | 2013 5x50 Challenge

Day 50 chat from the PM....

19th May 2013 by Simon Murrison

Thanks so much for taking part in the 2013 challenge – we are so pleased you have taken on and achieved this massive challenge. Read more...

A reason, season or lifetime? by Kate Calder

19th May 2013 by Kelly Mason

Well this afternoon I received a text that momentarily shattered my little world. Read more...

Summing it all up by Janet Moore

19th May 2013 by Kelly Mason

I just wanted to say thanks for the Challenge. Read more...

Final week encouragement from Highland Hero, Ray

15th May 2013 by Raymond Wallace

Hey there, well it’s my time to write the Core Team blog, Read more...

No more

12th May 2013 by Brian Canavan

Read more...

5x50 - The Real Challenge by Nicky Marr

4th May 2013 by Kelly Mason

We’re getting there. If we trust the advice of the 5x50 Core Team (and who wouldn’t?) then the daily habit of donning lycra and trainers in the name of sport is now well and truly established. Gone are the initial aches and pains and the incredulous looks from the neighbours (‘are you running again?’) and I am slipping into a nice routine; some runs, some cycles, and one shameful, hangover-induced walk in the woods. Read more...

Our International Team Rocks! by Sue Grant of the NHS C25K Team

4th May 2013 by Kelly Mason

Our International Team Rocks!! Read more...

The Most Challenging Day of the Challenge by Margaret Lodge

4th May 2013 by Kelly Mason

Day 29 5x50 Challenge Read more...

A Continental Challenge by Fran Rajewski

4th May 2013 by Kelly Mason

My 5x50 journey started when two lovely ladies Val Langthorne and Susan Bradford, both challengers to the 5x50 first event and now part of the Nutrachek Losers team, pointed me to this fabulous website “5x50”. Being the odd one out as I am based in Spain and am French, I was contacted by the Core team to see if I would be interested in promoting the event down South. It took very little time to agree to this, even if it meant having to opt out of the Nutracheck team to create my own 5x50 Las Salinas. I took an immediate liking to the challenge as it met exactly what the potato couch in me needed, a daily reminder our bodies are meant to be active! Read more...

Get your leg warmers on...by Tracey Harrison AKA Fitness Genie UK

1st May 2013 by Tracey Harrison

I am writing this on what is a rather dreary Sunday evening, but I am feeling good about using this time to reflect on the past few weeks. I should start by saying that I am more of a physical person than a writer and I have kept my blog piece quite brief but have ensured I have added a special physical element to it! Read more...

Take 5 Day 31

30th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Some days only chocolate will do, today was one of them… So tonight I’m taking 5 to celebrate the fact that I burned approximately 320 calories this morning, allowing for a guilt-free dalliance with a Galaxy! How do you reward yourself for your commitment to the Challenge? Read more...

Take 5 Day 30

29th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Life is full of choices, some big – like career or relationship changes; and some small – like what to have for dinner. Sometimes it feels like choice is taken away, though that is seldom truly the case. We may not be able to directly influence someone or something but we CAN always choose how WE feel about things, events and happenings. Never has this been more clearly illustrated for me than in relation to 5x50 activities. Read more...

Take 5 Day 29

28th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Yesterday the total number of kilometres covered by 5x50 Challengers passed 500,000 – half a million kilometres racked up by 4000 + people in over 30 countries. A HUGE number of challengers scattered across the globe united with one common purpose. The scale and reach of 5x50 never ceases to amaze and enthral me. From a throw away comment made in a corner of the Highlands, to a programme with world-wide reach. In recognition of the phenomenal physical milestone, today I ask you to take 5 and reflect on the scale of this thing you have connected with, after all, as a community we have already circled the globe over 12 TIMES! Read more...

A Proud Fiver by Alex Davis

28th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

I was really proud to be registered as a Fiver for this year’s 5x50 as I think this challenge is wonderful! During the approach to the September 2012 challenge I started running every day to train, even if that was just a mile or 2 each day. I completed every day of the challenge, running 358km in total, I felt amazing, lost 9lb and a dress size, and after the challenge ended I never even considered stopping. It just seemed natural to carry on running every day! Some people, including my brilliant brother Elliot, and my wonderful but bemused-by-my-running boyfriend Owen, think I am barmy (they are right!), but I love it. It is hard fitting it in sometimes, and I drop the odd day, but my day really does not feel right if I haven’t run. It seemed natural to sign up as a Fiver and hopefully inspire others to join in and discover the benefits of running, and exercise in general! Read more...

The results are in by Gillian McRobie

28th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Exercise had never really been part of my daily life before last September. I would have the odd bike ride, (under duress) and occasionally have a “granny swim” but apart from that I was pretty much a couch potato. My mother became ill last August and as a result of blocked arteries and she almost lost her life. This was just the wake up call I needed. I saw an article about the 5x50 in my local paper and decided to give it a go. Read more...

Take 5 Day 26

25th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Not for the first time I began this “Take 5” sitting with the laptop on my knee dredging my tired brain for inspiration. You may have noticed that that a couple of days have gone by the way-side – days where the perceived pressure of writing “something interesting” for the 5x50 community resulted in writer’s block and zero output. Read more...

Running, Jog On!

24th April 2013 by Tim Berridge

Whilst I sit and wait for some work to export from my slightly tired computer I thought I would use the time wisely and set about the core team blog which this week has nestled firmly on my shoulders. Read more...

Take 5 Day 23

22nd April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Last week, I started a new job (I know yet another one…it’s a long story) and am once again the “new girl”, feeling overwhelmed, under-confident and generally out of my depth. Read more...

Take 5 Day 21

20th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Out on this morning’s run I passed a JCB digger. Read more...

My 5x50 Challenge by Emily Morrison

20th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

In November 2012 a friend, Connor Meek, from college unfortunately lost his battle with cancer. He died aged just 19 three days before our graduation, when graduation day came around most of our class didn’t go as they didn’t want to celebrate without Connor. Read more...

G B Relay lauches World Record Relay Attempt around Mainland Britain

20th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

G B Relay Launches World Record Relay Attempt around Mainland Britain Read more...

Being a Fiver by Kate Calder

20th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

I had hoped to sign up a few folks from work and publicised in the weekly newsletter, I was pleased when 2 colleagues signed themselves up but had hoped out of 600 staff that maybe a few more might. Two weeks after the challenge started, the MD was doing a briefing and looked over at me and promptly did a pitch for people to sign up not realising that registration had closed. Shortly after, about 6 folks, including the MD, came to me asking how they signed up. When I explained that the challenge had started, they all said they wanted to do the challenge anyway and we would set up a way of recording activity on the shared drive, so one week on, 5x50 has had an impact on another 6 people and probably their families who will no doubt be out walking with them. The MD has also agreed to convert a cleaning cupboard ( quite a large one ) in to a shower too so that people can take part before work or during lunch and still smell ok to work next to. This has in turn encouraged those that run anyway, to run more during the working week even though they aren’t part of either the official or unofficial challenge. Read more...

Take 5 Day 20

19th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Setting out on my 5k run this morning a white feather floated down in front of me and landed at my feet. I like to believe that white feathers are sent from the wings of your guardian angel just when you need a little reminder that life is not just good, but great! Read more...

Take 5 Day 19

18th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Read more...

Take 5 Day 18

17th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

It’s probably not that often that a bundle of washing inspires something, but this evening it is the force behind this very take 5! Read more...

A veteran! Don’t be so cheeky!

16th April 2013 by Mark Houston

Well, It’s my turn to write a blog and share my thoughts, feelings and experiences of this year’s 5x50 Challenge. Unlike our Kelly Mason, who, it seems shares her daily thoughts and entertaining snippets with consummate ease with her ‘Take 5’, the written words doesn’t flow as easily to me. But anyway, here goes…. Read more...

Take 5 Day 16

15th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

There can really only be one subject for today’s take 5. As I type this, the world is still reeling from the news of explosions at the Boston Marathon. Read more...

A great way to cover your 5k whilst looking after the family ....

15th April 2013 by Simon Murrison

Read more...

Take 5 Day 15

14th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

I started today running in the rain along the shores of the Lake of Menteith. While it could be loosely said that I was out running with “The Gazelle” – Mark Houston…the fact that I was trailing his sylph-like figure by a good 100 metres rendered me technically alone with just my thoughts for company. Read more...

Moving Feet are Happy Feet by The Rambling Duck

14th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

I am struggling with a couple of internal demons. 5x50 has me focused on getting out and doing something to produce the endorphins to get my favourite curves quivering, a smile. Getting out for a run, brisk walk or swim gives me the chance to work out my demons in the peace and solitude with Mother Nature. 5km is the minimum I shall do each day. The rhythm of the human powered movement becomes the drum beat to the new mantra that is fighting the demons, “moving feet are happy feet”. Read more...

My 5x50 by Allan Brown

14th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Read more...

Take 5 Day 14

13th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Today’s 5k (well actually nearer 16k) was round the shores of arguably one of Scotland’s prettiest lochs – Loch Katrine. Read more...

Take 5 Day 13 by Margherita Still

12th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Today I am signing over Take 5 to Margherita Still. Read more...

Take 5 Day 12

11th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Every day is a school day so they say….this evening under the very careful supervision of PM, Simon Murrison, Mark Houston and I got let loose on the Challenger database! Read more...

Take 5 Day 11

10th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Today I took mini-Masonette and her best friend to a climbing centre. Both girls threw themselves whole-heartedly into the activity, climbing with gusto and showing no fear. Ear-splitting grins on their chalk-marked faces and blistered hands displayed with pride….what a great example of living in the moment, taking joy in exercise, and just doing it! Read more...

The Core Team are Human ...(honest)!

10th April 2013 by Simon Murrison

One of the best things I love about this challenge is the time that you find for yourself. Read more...

Take 5 Day 10

9th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Day 10…. it only seems like yesterday since I was typing Day 5 in the title and in the blink of an eye we are a fifth of the way through the Challenge! Read more...

Take 5 Day 9

8th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

The world is full of silver linings, yesterday I rediscovered cycling as a result of hurting my ankle and today an hours-worth of yoga in the company of my daughters gave a couple of great insights (and one or two not so great insights, like the dust-monkeys collected under the furniture). Read more...

Take 5 Day 8

7th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

Today’s activity was quite different for all sorts of reasons. It was the first day since the start of the challenge that I didn’t have company. It was also the first time that I have been on a bike (well except for stationary ones in the gym) since I fell off my aged Vindec on a particularly nasty corner of a road in the Highlands circa 1982! Read more...

Take 5 Day 7

6th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

I had the pleasure of being accompanied on my walk today by middle-Masonette, Annie. (For those of you new to the challenge, I have three daughters, collectively known as The Masonettes) Read more...

My Day One by Margherita Still

6th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

I couldn’t have had a more perfect day to start my 5x50 challenge. Blue sky, no wind and a stay in Ullapool. I set off with my husband and 14 year old son to walk along the coast to a lighthouse, a fair walk was how my husband described it. The reaction from the woman in the supermarket should have warned me it was a bit of a hike. Read more...

Take 5 Day 6

5th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

This morning was a treacle kind of morning, unfortunately not as in sweet and enjoyable, but more of the “pushing up a hill” variety. Read more...

Let's hear from Fiver - Zoe Baker @ZoeBakerPT

5th April 2013 by Simon Murrison

Read more...

Take 5 Day 5

4th April 2013 by Kelly Mason

While out running this morning I had to peel off my very snazzy new 5x50 team jacket, the -5 of yesterday giving way to a milder, more seasonal 3 degrees. The weather, it would appear, has turned. And it’s not the only thing turning. Read more...

Take 5 Day 4

3rd April 2013 by Kelly Mason

While out running this morning, up ahead I noticed a band of low-lying cloud stretching across the Forth and Clyde canal. It reminded me of the oft-longed-for finish line in competitive races and before I knew it, my mind had started drawing parallels. Most of the time I approach life as a journey, embracing daily experiences, learning new things, connecting with new people and “enjoying the ride”. Read more...

Take 5 Day 3

2nd April 2013 by Kelly Mason

I started the day running 5k at 6am with my friend Rhona and her son, Jack. Just before I sat down to write this, I had the pleasure of a telephone conversation with another Challenger, Helen. Helen and I had a blether following her evening 5k with dog in tow. Read more...

Take 5 Day 2

1st April 2013 by Kelly Mason

As I sat at the mirror this morning, my first thought was thank goodness it’s a radio show today and not TV! Read more...

Take 5 Day 1

31st March 2013 by Kelly Mason

As I sit here phone on lap and pint in hand I am aware of how the ups and downs of today reflect the journey to get here. Read more...

Some day one chat from the PM, Simon

31st March 2013 by Simon Murrison

By the time most of you read this then your 2013 5x50 challenge journey will have begun and i am so pleased that you have decided to take part. Read more...

We're back on track!

31st March 2013 by Kelly Mason

Our earlier technical difficulty where your activity was being recorded but not displaying has been resolved. Read more...

Stopped in our tracks....for a teeny wee while.

31st March 2013 by Kelly Mason

Regretfully we have yet another technical glitch…..while the tracking system IS registering your activities, it is not displaying these. Read more...

Key Supporter Mark Beaumont, tells us about his 5x50 journey

30th March 2013 by Kelly Mason

Hear what Adventurer and supporter of 5x50 has to say about keeping his fitness on track over the next 50 days. Read more...

The 5x50 Challenge is for everyone - which one are you? - Compiled by Steph Melrose

26th March 2013 by Kelly Mason

The 5x50 Challenge is for everyone – which one are you? Read more...

Be Inspired - David Smith M.B.E.

23rd March 2013 by Kelly Mason

David Andrew Smith from Aviemore took up Paralympic Rowing in 2009 after representing Great Britain in able-bodied sport – Karate between 1993-1999 and Bobsleigh from 2002- 2008. During this time he also worked with the British ski teams as a national assistant coach. Read more...

Roddy Riddle - what an amazing supporter of 5x50

22nd March 2013 by Simon Murrison

Many of us have events planned this year but our Fantastic 5x50 supporter and ex-International Cyclist Roddy Riddle has set his goals a good bit higher than most of us!!, in just 2 weeks time he will embark on what is regarded as the toughest footrace in the world the “Marathon Des Sables”. Read more...

2013 Challenge T-shirts

17th March 2013 by Simon Murrison

We are pleased to announce that thanks to our fantastic friends at Run4it the 2013 Challenge T-shirt is now on sale here Read more...

Just Giving Set Up Instructions

17th March 2013 by Brian Canavan

Just Giving Setup Instructions Read more...

Born to Run by Margaret Lodge

16th March 2013 by Kelly Mason

Born to Run – I just never realised it Read more...

Our story by Liza Dethick

9th March 2013 by Kelly Mason

Ross is 11 years old, and ever since he was a baby he has suffered from various allergies, eczema and asthma. He has always been small and has constant stomach cramps and aching bones. He takes daily medication but always has a smile on his face. Read more...

Biggest loser to 5x50 champ by Kathryn Calder

1st March 2013 by Kelly Mason

By the November, I was also working out regularly with a trainer at my local gym and when a colleague at work suggested I sign up for a race, I nearly died with fear but got myself signed up to run the BUPA Manchester 10 k in the following May – a good goal to have. Read more...

From Yule to Cool by Andy Clifton

1st March 2013 by Kelly Mason

A very cold crisp December Day I’m stood at the start line of the 2010 Nantwich Santa Dash with my 8 year old son. I’m 39, weighing over 15st, slightly hung-over and just finishing up a cigarette before the start of the race!” Read more...

My 5x50 Journey by @musicianteacher

21st February 2013 by Kelly Mason

It was just under two years ago that I stepped out of the front door, in whatever shoes I could find, wearing some jogging bottoms and a t shirt, for my first run. Read more...

Could you be the face of 5x50?

19th February 2013 by Simon Murrison

Read more...

An open (hearted) letter to our 5x50 Family

17th February 2013 by Kelly Mason

Dear Challenger, Read more...

Karen Darke talks about motivation and 5x50

16th February 2013 by Simon Murrison

People often ask how I stay motivated to train every day. How do you get yourself out whatever the weather? Partly it’s because of habit –just like you clean your teeth before going to bed, I get up in a morning with the habit of riding my bike or going to the gym. But before the habit kicks in, it helps if there is a goal and a reason to want to do it. Read more...

The real reason why we created this challenge ....

15th February 2013 by Simon Murrison

A very personal reason from Claire in Spain for getting involved in the challenge …. Read more...

Important message for all 2013 challengers

28th January 2013 by Simon Murrison

The registration process will be changing slightly very shortly. Read more...

Competition Time

26th January 2013 by Simon Murrison

We are running an early bird sign up competition to ensure everyone gets into their training for the challenge as soon as possible. Read more...

We haven't stop running - an update on the challenge

21st January 2013 by Simon Murrison

Now that registration has opened for the 2013 5x50 challenge I thought it would be good to bring you up to speed with what has been going on since the 2012 challenge ended on 28th Oct 2012. Read more...

We need your help

20th January 2013 by Simon Murrison

We are looking to spread the word of the 5x50 Challenge as far as possible all over the world and need YOUR help with this. We are looking for volunteers to help recruit challengers or assist with the marketing of the challenge. Read more...

How do I log my runs on the 5x50 website?

31st December 2012 by Simon Murrison

For those wondering how to track your activities on the 5x50 website, log into your my5x50 section of the website and you will be able to do so. You can also check out the YouTube video. Read more...

Run4it - Christmas all wrapped up

7th December 2012 by Simon Murrison

Did you know Run4it are offering a prize everyday until 24th Dec – great prizes on offer with over £2,000 worth of prizes to be won. Enter here for a chance to win. Read more...

Run 4it Head to the North of Scotland

27th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Our friends at Run 4it will be visiting Thurso and Wick next week. See picture for more details. Read more...

Great offer from Daniel Gerber - Glasgow Osteo

26th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

My 5x50 ended with injury and frustration. I’m back for Run the world and I’m determined to keep you running. To help you get there I’m offering 2 special offers to all 5x50 participants until the end of the March 2013. More on that later. To start with I’m going to tell you about my 5x50. Read more...

Antarctic Ice Marathon - an unexpected win

24th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Katabatic winds, extreme sub zero temperatures and a savage beauty are promised by Richard Donovan, the organiser of The Ice Marathon. Many feel that this marathon, on the interior of the Antartic represents the final frontier in marathon running. Read more...

Doc wins 8th Antarctic Ice Marathon

22nd November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Great news everyone – we are pleased to let you know Doc Andrew Murray won the 2012 Antarctic Ice Marathon in a record time of 3:41.15hrs. He adds this title to that of North Pole Marathon Champion. Read more...

Run4it Offer

21st November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Our lovely friends at Run4it have kindly donated a £50 voucher to be used in a draw for all challengers so go on sign up now to be in with a chance of winning it. Read more...

Some words of support from Michael Nowicki

21st November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Running for 7 consecutive days on different continents is hard enough with the ultra marathons but flying after each run is an amazing challenge itself. Read more...

Message from our Sponsors ..

20th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

We are pleased to announce that our sponsors have kindly donated a few more prizes to be won but with a condition!! Read more...

A moving reason to sign up from Pete Wallis

16th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Less than 2 months ago I was lying in the intensive care unit of a Kenyan hospital intubated and ventilated. For the past 6 months I had been working as a volunteer doctor in rural South Sudan, and the living conditions had been hard. I lost 17 kg BEFORE I got sick. Then I got a brain infection, and things went downhill pretty quickly. I have now been back home in Melbourne for almost 4 weeks, and today I went on my first run in over 10 years! Read more...

STV also cover Doctor Andrew

13th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

STV also decided they were going to cover Andrew’s challenge – read more here Read more...

The Doc & 5x50 make it onto the BBC website

13th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

With the PR starting to increase over the next few days, news of the challenge reached the BBC website. To read the article in full click here Read more...

Blog from Brian Morris

10th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

My journey to the 5x50 starts a few years ago. As a very busy teacher/manager and musician, I am often out of the house 16 hours a day and balancing ‘normal’ work (if working in a secondary school is ever normal) and professional work as a musician is hard. Read more...

Nifty needs your help

9th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

We have been approached by the BBC to do an interview with them on the morning of Tuesday 13th November in Glasgow about the challenge. Read more...

Chance to win a signed top from Sir Chris Hoy

9th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

5x50 and Doctor Andrew Murray are delighted to announce that if you sign up for the Run the World challenge by midnight on Monday 12th November you will automatically be entered into a draw to win a signed top from Sir Chris Hoy. Read more...

Blog from Liza Dethick

9th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

I have enjoyed every minute of this challenge. I decided to take part because I had just started a jogging club (have never done any kind of exercise before) so I wanted something to keep me motivated. Read more...

Stop the Medical Press

8th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

5x50 and Run the World have made it into the British Medical Journal. To read the full article click here Read more...

Blog from Jon Stubbington

8th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Me, my knee and the 5x50: we all reach Day 50 Read more...

Glasgow Run for Fun Festive 5K

7th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Some of the 5x50 core team members are pleased to support Jay Semple in attending the above event which he is helping to organise. Read more...

Blog from Sheila Wallace

7th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

I first heard about the 5x50 Challenge just before it started in September and I thought it sounded fairly strenous, but something I wanted to challenge myself to attempt. I’d taken up running for the first time at age 50+ a few weeks earlier and as a beginner runner I was following the advice to take rest or recovery days between the running days. I hoped the challenge would give me a push to cross-train more regularly on my bike, or at least go for a walk on non-running days. Read more...

Officially Announcing Run The World

6th November 2012 by Jamie Sterling

Andrew Murray, a GP, and the Scottish Government’s Physical Activity Champion is gearing up for his most gruelling challenge yet when he runs seven ultra marathons on seven continents over seven consecutive days, immediately after completing the Ice Marathon in Antarctica. Read more...

Blog from Lynne Douglas

6th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

I write this blog on day 43 of the 5x50 challenge with a mixture of relief and sadness. Read more...

Blog from Shona Gwyne

5th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Way back in the early hours of 2012 a very good friend convinced me to start running. Being buoyed up on champagne and being with good friends, I agreed. Perhaps it was the pit fire or else that despite it being England and New Years Eve, I felt a bit of the spirit of Hogmanays past. Read more...

The latest from Doctor Andrew Murray

4th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

One of the things that will keep me going when I’m tired, jet lagged or cold is knowing that this challenge is much more than a bloke with a big nose running in different parts of the world. Read more...

Some coverage from The Scottish Running Guide

4th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Many thanks to our friends at the Scottish Running Guide for writing this article Read more...

Blog from Sam Begg

4th November 2012 by Simon Murrison

I just wanted to email and say thank you! I loved being involved in the 5x50 Challenge and seeing the kilometres and the ££ go up each day was very inspiring. I know you are in the process of collecting challenger’s experiences and stories and I just felt I had to contribute as I have had the best time during the past 50 days! Read more...

Blog from Legal 5x50 Challenge Team

3rd November 2012 by Simon Murrison

At the time of writing the Legal 5 50 Challenge Team will have completed or will be about to complete Day 45 of the 5x50 challenge. Read more...

Blog from Allan Brown

2nd November 2012 by Simon Murrison

Allan Brown, retired teacher, 60, had a wee heart attack 3 years ago. Read more...

Blog from Julie Mitchell

1st November 2012 by Simon Murrison

New to running, fundraising and now blogging!! Read more...

Blog from Mary Welsh

31st October 2012 by Simon Murrison

Before the start of the challenge I spent many years looking after my elderly parents, my Mum Flo, being the last to leave this mortal coil recently. She knew how to grab life by the horns and in my mind wouldn’t be far away in spirit . Read more...

Blog from Gillian McRobie

30th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

0 to 500K in 50 days Read more...

Some Day 50 photos from Kelvin Hall

29th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

We are so grateful to Andrew McKenna for giving up his time to take these photos of Day 50 at the Kelvin Hall Read more...

Day 50 in Copenhagen with Anne-Margaret Bressendorff

29th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

On Day 50 Victoria Christian and I walked over 5k along the seashore at Charlottenlund north of Copenhagen. (I actually cycled 5k each way to meet her there too!). We also climbed up to Charlottenlund Fort and did some aerobic running up steps! It was a fabulous clear autumn day, very cold and crisp but wonderful clear views across to Sweden. Read more...

Nifty made a wee mistake last night ....

29th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

Sorry everyone there was a small error in the Day 50 email sent last night. In the paragraph – Read more...

PM discloses news of special challenge in November and also date for 2013 challenge today at Kelvin Hall

28th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

And so I promised to tell you where the 5x50 challenge is heading. Read more...

The PM reflects on the Challenge at the Kelvin Hall today Day 50

28th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

Good afternoon everyone. Read more...

The end or just the beginning?

28th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Today, there is one key question in my mind, a question that carries within it the essence and spirit of the 5x50 Challenge – What is it? Well, it’s this…… Read more...

Day 49 and enter 'Highland Hero' Ray

27th October 2012 by Raymond Wallace

Well we’re nearly there Day 49, firstly can I congratulate and thank each and every one of you for becoming part of our amazing challenge, not only to support a massive amount of people through the wonderful charities that will benefit but having the courage to commit to the continuous 50 days in the first place and work to change habits for a lifetime. Read more...

Day 48 and up close and personal with the 'PM'

26th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

And so as we make Day 48 it has come to my turn to share my experiences of the challenge. Read more...

Day 47 - Playing catch-up

25th October 2012 by Tim Berridge

I have a confession to make. Read more...

Day 46 - If Carlsberg did teams .......

24th October 2012 by Mark Houston

Being a part of the 5x50 Challenge Core Team has been a pretty humbling experience and probably the best team I’ve had the privilege to work with (if Carlsberg did teams eh!). Not only have I been fortunate enough to be part of such a committed bunch (and the best friends anyone could wish for) but being in the Core Team has also allowed me the privileged position of hearing some of the incredible heart-rending stories and poignant feedback from some of our truly amazing Challengers. Read more...

An Open (hearted) letter from Challenger Steve Gilbert

24th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Hi there , I just thought I would drop you a line to say just how much this challenge has meant to me. Read more...

Day 50 plans

24th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

We have been informed of the following meet ups (please email simon@5x50.co.uk if you want your meet up added to the list). Please note only the event at Kelvingrove is an official 5x50 event. Read more...

Day 45 An uplifting tale by Peter Latham, Challenger and member of Team Consult Lifts

23rd October 2012 by Kelly Mason

My 5x50 Challenge Read more...

Day 44 and over to Brian .....,

22nd October 2012 by Brian Canavan

I’d heard about the 5x50 Challenge, who hadn’t, through the efforts of Kelly, Simon and the rest of the core team at some of the business networking that I attend and I must admit at first I had no intention of trying to do it. Read more...

Day 43 time for Sarah the PR machine to share her thoughts

20th October 2012 by Sarah Scace

I’m starting to write this at 9:32pm. I still haven’t completed my 5x50 for today. My gut feels a bit sick about it, my head is foggy with a tad of anxiety and my aching foot is whispering ‘screw you Sarah’. Read more...

A request from the Core Team

20th October 2012 by Simon Murrison

Over the remaining days of the challenge the Core Team will all share with you what the challenge has meant to them and their personal experiences. Read more...

Day 42 - Let's hear from Ms Motivator

19th October 2012 by Tracey Harrison

As someone who passionately believes in the benefits of fitness for both physical and mental gain I was so sure that this 5x50 malarkey wasn’t really going to be a challenge. Well I am putting this out there, not very often do I find myself wrong or admitting but I was wrong! Read more...

Take 5 Day 41

19th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

This morning I was prompted to look up the dictionary definition of Challenge. What it was that prompted me to do this will remain un-written for fear of embarrassing people. However, this is what the Cambridge Dictionary had to say…. Read more...

40 Days and 40 Nights

18th October 2012 by Mark Houston

Some of you may recall that my last attempt at a blog was after day 5 of the 5x50 Challenge when I gave a little summary of my first 5 days. I just can’t think where the last 35 days have gone! I just can’t fathom that here we are on day 40 already and like most of you doing this amazing challenge with me you’ll be thinking 10 (or maybe 9 or less) days to go when you read this……but will that be with a ‘YES!!! Just 10 more days of this torture to go, woo hoo’ OR as in my case, ‘Oh no, only ten days to go and it’ll all be over’. Well, I guess that all depends on what the Challenge has meant to YOU personally, how has it been physically, mentally, what happened during YOUR journey, what did you get out of it and how much did you really put in to it – was it really a challenge?…….For me, the last 40 days have been simply brilliant for so many reasons and on only 2 occasions did I think ‘crap I really can’t be ***** running this morning’ but I did of course and I ALWAYS felt better for it. I think that’s pretty good. Read more...

Take 5 Day 40

18th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

As you will probably be aware, on most days, this wee blog is inspired by something that has occurred while out for my 5k, be it a thought or a physical happening. Today the significance of THIS 5k has got me thinking… Read more...

Take 5 Day 39

17th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

This morning I had the pleasure of going to view the final version of the painting by Gillian Orr, (a fabulous Glasgow-based artist), that will shortly be presented to our Regional Ambassador for South West London, Stuart Amory of Inkilter Fitness. Read more...

Take 5 Day 38

16th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Today more than any other day of the Challenge I noticed the grip of autumn in the air. I was running on a carpet of leaves, the air was chill and the chestnut trees weighed heavily with conkers. Read more...

Take 5 Day 37

15th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Today’s 5k can only be described as one of contrast. Contrast to yesterday that is…. Read more...

Take 5 Day 36

14th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

I am writing this in the car on the way back from what has been an amazing weekend. What made it so amazing? On top of many, many other things, the knowledge that a love of exercise, in this instance running, unites people. Read more...

Take 5 Day 35

13th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

I’m guessing that like me, most of your 5ks have been solo experiences. Read more...

Take 5 Day 34

12th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Much to the disgust of her older sisters, Mini-Masonette has a day off school today due to an in-service day at her primary school. It is on a rare occasion that I see breakfast TV beyond the “leaving for school/work” time of 8:42 (give or take a minute), so today I had the treat (?) of seeing some “Daybreak” . Read more...

Take 5 Day 33

11th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

While cooling down after my 5k this morning I met a lady out with one dog off the lead, bounding ahead, and another – a guide dog puppy in training – firmly attached to her wrist. We chatted for 5 minutes, mainly about the puppy’s training; how he sees the other dog in front of him and wants to “run before he can walk” and how the training had to be consistent and would focus on this issue until it finally got through to the dog. Read more...

Take 5 Day 32

10th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

I didn’t sleep much last night. My head was buzzing with lots of thoughts, mainly about 5x50 and what happens when this year is all over, which with only 18 days to go until the end of the Challenge feels scarily close. In January, when I reached the stage of not wanting it to be over it was easy to say to Raymond on day 19, “will we just keep going for 50 days…..?”. This time, the answer to “What happens next?” isn’t so easy to define. We in the Core Team dare to hope that all of you who finish this year’s Challenge with us on 28th October would be just as keen to repeat the experience next year. That you would be keen to share the camaraderie, connections and (friendly) competition you have enjoyed through the Challenge with other like-minded friends and family and maybe some not-so-like-minded people too. Read more...

Take 5 Day 31

9th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Last night I was sorting through photo albums on my laptop and came across a picture of a quote I had taken from a book because the words had spoken very loudly to me at the time. A few mobile phone changes later and the words had disappeared from my sight and, in time, my memory. I was overjoyed to open an apparently random folder on my computer to re-discover this treasure which I am about to share with you. Read more...

Take 5 Day 30

8th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

If 5x50 were a Marcothon then today or tomorrow would be your last day – you have already run, walked, jogged, cycled or undertaken another activity EVERY day for the equivalent of a WHOLE MONTH. That’s 1/12th of a year – How amazing is that? Read more...

Take 5 Day 29

7th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Out for today’s 5k, I was a bit surprised to hit the end of the road and see more than the usual collection of runners out and about. As I approached the next corner and spotted the man in the fluorescent jacket waving his arms and clapping, I realised that I had stumbled upon a race that was literally passing the end of my road. Read more...

Take 5 Day 28

6th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Regardless of the sights and sounds that make up your stomping ground, there is beauty where you run, walk or cycle if you choose to see it. It might be in the smile of that elderly gentleman on the street whose backward glance tells you that he was once a runner pounding the pavements too; it might be in the statue you’d never noticed before as something draws your eyes upwards or it might be in the tender moment as a parent consoles the child who has fallen in the park. Beauty is everywhere… Read more...

Take 5 Day 27

5th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Some days the Challenge is a little more challenging than others, sometimes it’s our physicality that complains in response to our request to our bodies to move a little faster/further than usual – sore legs, sore head, tiredness etc. Sometimes it’s a psychological refusal – “I just don’t FEEL up to it”; “My heart isn’t in it today”. Sometimes it’s just a plain excuse that we make feel real – “I HAVE to stay on at work and finish this”; “I’ll never catch up if I go out and walk for an hour”. Read more...

Take 5 Day 26

4th October 2012 by Kelly Mason

This morning I had the pleasure of making it along to the Business Banter, a Glasgow networking event created by Martin Jack of Think Different Events which effectively turns staid and formulaic networking on its head. There are no pitches and no early starts just good coffee and a chance to blether with like-minded people. It could be said that the Banter played a huge part in the creation and growth of the 5x50 Challenge as it was in the (sometimes too warm) warmth of Esquires Coffee Shop basement that the core team found each other and grew to become the driving force of 5x50! Read more...

An Update from our All UK FitBit Fanatics Team - collated by Helen

3rd October 2012 by Kelly Mason

All UK Fitbit Fanatics – 5x50 team Read more...

Take 5 Day 25

3rd October 2012 by Kelly Mason

Well here we are at the halfway point of the Challenge. We can now officially start counting down as we pass over the brow of the hill but not before we have paused briefly on the summit to consider just what we have achieved these last 25 days. Read more...

Take 5 Day 24

2nd October 2012 by Kelly Mason

The majority of the Core Team met in a stolen lunch hour today to discuss plans for Day 50. Read more...

Take 5 Day 23

1st October 2012 by Kelly Mason

What a surprising business this 5x50 Challenge is! Read more...

Take 5 Day 22

30th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

I was fortunate to witness Highland Hero, Ray Wallace and Mark ‘The Gazelle’ Houston tame Nessie and complete the Loch Ness Marathon in 4:02 and 3:32 hours respectively – A remarkable achievement from both members of the Core Team and one I was incredibly proud to share in albeit in my cheerleader role. Read more...

Take 5 Day 21

29th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

As we’ve already mentioned, undertaking an activity consistently for between 19 and 21 days is known to be habit forming….so….if it hasn’t already happened, then today is the day! Read more...

Take 5 Day 20

28th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

The power of social media has meant: Read more...

Take 5 Day 19

27th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

More than any other day, day 19 is a day of significance, for it was on the 19th day of January 2012 that two things happened. Read more...

Take 5 Day 18

26th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

Last night I had a bit of a meltdown…..yes, it even happens to the Core Team, and if I tell you that as a Day 1 gift, the team gave me a box of tissues, then you will understand that I’m more prone to the odd bout of “tears and snotters” than the rest. Although, I have witnessed the normally calm, serene and unflustered PM misty-eyed on more than one occasion over the last 18 weeks or so! Read more...

Take 5 Day 17

25th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

And with the arrival of day 17, we find ourselves more than a third of the way through the Challenge. Read more...

Take 5 Day 16

24th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

Sitting here at the laptop watching the rain beat the windows and the wind blow a “hoolie” outside, I think back to the sunny welcoming weather of yesterday and can’t help but think of the weather as a metaphor for daily 5ks. Read more...

Take 5 Day 15

23rd September 2012 by Kelly Mason

I was accompanied on yesterday’s 10k walk by Middle-Masonette, Annie. As number 2 of 3, one-to-one time with Annie is rare and precious. I get to enjoy the exclusive company of Mini-Masonette, Millie, almost daily, after the older two have left for school. Sophie the original Masonette, often stays up later than her siblings gifting us a chance to chat. Read more...

Take 5 Day 14

22nd September 2012 by Kelly Mason

Today’s Take 5 has been inspired by the wife and children of our PM, Simon Murrison. Beth had to visit A&E yesterday to be told that a very sore foot was the result of torn ligaments, rather than give up on the Challenge, Beth voiced her resolve to continue on Facebook and Twitter and entertained both communities by posting her children’s suggestions for completing the Challenge. For the purposes of those who didn’t have the pleasure of reading Beth’s posts, by far the best suggestion was “bum shuffling” complete with a demonstration from the eager pre-schoolers! Read more...

Take 5 Day 13

21st September 2012 by Kelly Mason

Take 5 Day 12

20th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

While out walking yesterday evening, I made a conscious choice to listen to my inner Cheerleader rather than my Inner Critic and as a result shaved 3 minutes off the previous days’ time and arrived home elated. Read more...

Take 5 Day 11

19th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

As many of you will know, I sustained a broken arm after arm wrestling a 4x4 on day 2 of the challenge. The incident has encouraged me to approach my personal challenge in a different way and to put a positive spin on what, if I chose to think that way, could be a real set-back. Read more...

Get Free Stuff Just for doing your 5x50

18th September 2012 by Simon Murrison

Thanks to our partners at imotiva.com we have some great rewards for all of you participating in the 5x50 challenge. Read more...

New way to donate .....

18th September 2012 by Simon Murrison

Nifty has been working on ways to donate for non-challengers Read more...

Take 5 Day 10

18th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

As we hit the 10th day and the one-fifth complete mark in the Challenge, we thought we would introduced a little daily feature designed to help you to “Take 5” minutes to reflect on an aspect of your life that the Challenge is influencing. From completing the 50 days, just for fun at the beginning of the year, I can honestly say that not one area of my life was left untouched. Now that you have (hopefully?) successfully managed to fit YOUR Challenge into YOUR day, we will use this 5 minute space, to reflect on how you, and those around you, are being shaped and changed. Read more...

Michelle McManus The Evening Times 13th September 2012

14th September 2012 by Simon Murrison

Andy and Co. have given me the fitness bug THE past few months have been the dubbed the Summer of Sport with what could be the most successful Olympic and Paralympic games in modern memory topped off by Scotland’s Andy Murray winning his first Grand Slam title in America on Monday night. Read more...

5x50 Challenge Blog - The first 5 of 50

14th September 2012 by Mark Houston

Sunday 9th of September Read more...

Day 1 interview with Kelly

13th September 2012 by Tim Berridge

An interview with Kelly Mason on the first day of the challenge. Read more...

Day one chat from the PM .......

10th September 2012 by Simon Murrison

If you were not able to join the core team at Glasgow Green yesterday, here is what the PM said to those who made it along - Read more...

Bruce Lauder's 5x50 Story.

8th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

My name is Bruce Lauder and I am a father of three. In February of this year my wife gave birth to our daughter three months premature. As a result of being so little she spent the next 3 weeks in intensive care followed by another 5weeks in the special care baby unit. Read more...

Stop The Press

8th September 2012 by Simon Murrison

Contents of the pre-challenge email that is now heading your direction - Read more...

48 hours to go and not enough time in the day ....

7th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

With just over 48 hours to go until the start of the Challenge, we have experienced a huge surge in numbers – A huge warm welcome to each and every one of you! Read more...

Measuring your 5km

6th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

How to know that you are actually covering your 5km has been a common theme in many challenger questions. Read more...

Cycle Safe

5th September 2012 by Colin Edgar

Here at Consult Lift Services, we deal with vertical transportation the easy way, propelling up to 53 people at a time, up or down, usually at up to 2.5 metres per second, in fact with our partners Kleemann’s Iphone app you can even log how many metres you have travelled in lifts! Read more...

Team #FitTeam12

5th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

Check out this lively and entertaining video by one of our Regional Ambassadors Stuart Amory… Read more...

Social Media Event

5th September 2012 by Simon Murrison

We will be holding an event on Thursday 27th September during Social Media Week in Glasgow #smw5x50 – more details to follow but to book click here Read more...

Day one meet ups

5th September 2012 by Simon Murrison

5 x 50 . . . Kick starting

5th September 2012 by Alex Davids

Sometimes we just need a kick start in our lives. Read more...

5x50's Mark Houston BBC Interview

4th September 2012 by Tim Berridge

Dougie Vipond caught up with Mark Houston at the finish of the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow Green on Sunday and asked him about the 5x50 challenge. Read more...

Back Up or Back Off? - Exercising with back pain

4th September 2012 by Daniel Gerber

I’ve started my 5x50 challenge with one of the training plans. The first post is going to be about my second week because it shows what ever happens you can fit it some form of exercise. Read more...

Taking over the media!!

4th September 2012 by Kelly Mason

Just in case you missed it this morning, you may like to listen to our fab supporter, Michelle McManus talk about the 5x50 Challenge on the MacAulay and Co Show on BBC Radio Scotland this morning about 19 mins into the show. Please cut and paste the following link to your browser. Read more...

The final few days before the grand event starts ...

3rd September 2012 by Simon Murrison

Well #5x50 people we are in the final stages before the event kicks off – what exciting times for us all! Read more...

Focus on 5x50 Week 11

30th August 2012 by Kelly Mason

This week’s Focus has just got to be kicked off with a massive HAPPY BIRTHDAY mention to Business Banter. Reaching the two year anniversary and greeting each and every new face with a warm word and a smile, Martin Jack knows a thing or two about what it takes to make your vision grow successfully. Having learned the hard way over the last 11 weeks what “event management” actually entails, we would like to say JACKY WE SALUTE YOU! I have never seen you without a smile on your face and your energy is positively infectious. Thank you for continuing to provide the space from where small acorns grow into ever-growing oaks. Read more...

Focus on 5x50 Week 10

30th August 2012 by Kelly Mason

With the 5x50 website clock reminding us that there are less than 25 days until the start of the challenge, the core team have been pretty much working round that said clock to maximise our challenger numbers and ensure that the website does exactly what it says on the tin. Read more...

Focus on 5x50 Week 9

30th August 2012 by Kelly Mason

At the end of what has been an outstanding week for Team GB, I’m guessing that you are feeling as fired up for the Challenge as I am. Who could fail to be inspired as gold upon gold earned our sportspeople places in the record books, and places in our collective hearts? Read more...

Dr Seuss goes Running

30th August 2012 by Daniel Gerber

The Summer has been a bit of a wash out so far. The temptation to sit in and do nothing has been really strong, but it doesn’t have to stop your exercise or fun outdoors. There’s loads to do, there’s fun to be had and what’s best is it starts to get the family involved and shows them that exercise and activity can be fun. Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 8

6th August 2012 by Kelly Mason

It only seems like yesterday since I sat down, still in my “goonie” ( ermmm I suppose that would look better if it read – fresh in from an early run, but hey) with a pot of coffee at my side, to write the first of these weekly reflections. It is unbelievable to think that two months have passed since then and even more unbelievable to think of what we have achieved in that time. Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 7

30th July 2012 by Kelly Mason

As we hurtle rapidly towards the “6 weeks to go mark”, we have to keep reminding ourselves to stop and take stock of just what has been achieved so far. Read more...

23 and 1/2 hours: What is the single best thing we can do for our health?

23rd July 2012 by Kelly Mason

Don’t believe everything you read about rivalry between Glasgow and Edinburgh! As well as sharing some tops tips and ideas with us, Mr Edinburgh Marathon, (aka Neil Kilgour) also pointed us in the direction of this brilliant piece of animation which really sums us the essence of the challenge… Read more...

Keep on Running

23rd July 2012 by Daniel Gerber

The 5x50 Challenge is about bringing about the potential to change your life. My aim is to keep you exercising. Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 6

23rd July 2012 by Kelly Mason

As I hit the keys on a laptop that has been abandoned for the best part of 2 days, I am struck by the fact that for the time being, I have jumped off the treadmill called “Working Life” in favour of the gentler pace needed to really see the beauty that lies in nature and humanity. “Just what has this to do with 5x50?” I hear you ask, my answer EVERYTHING! Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 5

13th July 2012 by Kelly Mason

Who would have thought that the core team could get any more excited than we were in breaking the news of our latest celebrity involvement?……well we reached fever pitch this week! Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 4

9th July 2012 by Kelly Mason

Well you wait for a celebrity supporter and then 2 come along at once, isn’t that just the way? Read more...

Couch Potato to Road Warrior (or how the 5x50 may affect you)

9th July 2012 by Daniel Gerber

The problem with starting something like The 5x50 Challenge is we’re often not conditioned for exercise. We spend so much of our time sitting. We sit at work, we sit on the sofa when we get home, we condition our body to sit. Even if you do the occasional sports session such as a swim, run or cycle it’s not enough to undo the conditioning that sitting imposes on our body. Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 3

28th June 2012 by Kelly Mason

Well the 5x50 week is starting earlier and earlier. This week it kicked off on Saturday when our Highland Hero, Raymond Wallace bravely tackled the duathlon that is the Highland Cross. 20 miles cross-country on foot, before locking those feet onto pedals for a 30 mile cycle…serious stuff! And our Ray nailed it in 6 hours….what a guy! Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 2

22nd June 2012 by Kelly Mason

What a start to the 5x50 week, which on this occasion started on Sunday at the Glasgow 10K for Men in Bellahouston Park. Mark Houston (aka The Gazelle) once more proved the benefits of regular exercise when he smashed his previous personal best crossing the line in 38 minutes, 55 seconds, a remarkable feat for the Daddy of the Core Team, putting men half his age to shame. Mark will be the first to admit that he only started running regularly in November last year, and we have all been blown away by the latent talent. Who knows what YOU are capable of?….and the 5x50 challenge might be just the way to find out…? Read more...

Focus on 5x50 - week 1

15th June 2012 by Kelly Mason

On the back of Jacky’s hugely generous offer to help promote the 5x50 Challenge, welcome to the first of what will be a regular journal charting the ups and downs of the 5x50 week. Read more...

5x50 Goes 'Down Under'

7th June 2012 by Kelly Mason

Back in June, the 5x50 Core Team enjoyed it’s first taste of international “stardom” when team members were interviewed for a podcast on the Australian Partnerunning Show. Read more...