Ready, run, repeat: The 10×10 Run Challenge returns this October

Runners stretch outside the Institute of Science, Fort before a run. pics Courtesy/ Deepak Oberoi

In 2016, Deepak Oberoi and Priyanca Walanju, founders of Bombay Running, decided to run 10 kilometres every day for 10 straight days. Initially with no sponsors, no medals, and no hashtags. Just one question: What will happen to you and your body if you run 10 kilometres every single day?

What followed was far from exhaustion. Those 10 days built a rhythm, a community, and a movement. Today, that experiment has evolved into the 10x10 Run Challenge - one of Mumbai's most enduring fitness rituals. That impulsive challenge, now called The 10x10 Run Challenge, celebrates its 10th anniversary edition this October with over 2,000 expected participants across India. What began with a handful of friends in 2016 has evolved into a decade-long tradition that has transformed lives and built one of the country's most spirited running communities.

Participants gearing for a run

"The idea was never about racing," says Oberoi. "It was about showing up; it was more about discipline, energy, and joy. Running changed my life, and I wanted to pass that on." Over the years, the 10x10 has become a benchmark for consistency and camaraderie. Runners talk about improved mental clarity, sharper focus, and the pure high of chasing sunrise kilometres with like-minded souls. As Bombay Running gears to celebrate this milestone edition, the 10x10 stands as more than just a challenge; it's a decade of resilience, sweat, and stories written on Mumbai's streets.

Members participate in a post-run stretch at Girgaon Chowpatty

Back in 2016, running in India was emerging as a serious sport - timing the run, competition, performance, and pressure. Oberoi and Walanju saw something missing, which was joy and the adrenaline rush. "Running clubs were all about speed and distance. We wanted to focus on the feeling," he recalls. And so, Bombay Running was born: a running crew with a simple goal: to bring people together through movement. From a few runners meeting at dawn to a thriving community that has trained community filled the gap between high-performance athletes and everyday people looking to move with purpose.

"Running has taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of consistency. We wanted to share that with anyone ready to start their own fitness journey, and the 10x10 Run Challenge started with a simple, slightly quirky question: "What will happen if we run 10 kilometres every day for 10 days, covering 100 kilometres in total?" Oberoi explains.

Priyanca Walanju and Deepak Oberoi

"We honestly thought we'd burn out," he admits. "Instead, we found something amazing - better sleep, sharper focus, and a sense of discipline that spilled into the rest of our lives. By day five, the body starts to protest. By day seven, the mind takes over. By day 10, most runners say they feel unstoppable. "That's the magic of the 10x10," he maintains.

Each year, the initiative kicks off in October, and by the final day, the crew celebrates with laughter and, of course, a well-earned beer. "Instead of medals, we also give runners a license plate with their name on it for a run well done," explains Oberoi.

A moment from a warm-up session

"This is our passion project," reminds Oberoi. "We've seen highs and lows, but what keeps us grounded are the people. Every edition brings transformations. It's humbling to see how far we've come," he adds. "The 10x10 is proof that consistency beats intensity - every single time. Consistency is the key to everything," Oberoi and Walanju reflect. "It's what builds runners and it's what builds life."

Who Can Participate?

The challenge is open to everyone, from amateur joggers to seasoned marathoners. All you need is the will to show up every day. Walk, jog, run, or mix it up; as long as you complete 10 km daily, you're in. "It's not about speed," says Oberoi. "It's about commitment. The 10x10 belongs to anyone who believes in movement."

License plates are given to participants instead of medals, as a mark of their achievement

Do's and Don'ts

Do's:
Come with positive energy and an open mind. Support fellow runners - this is a crew, not a competition.
Hydrate, stretch, and rest well between runs.

Don'ts:
Don't compare yourself with others. Always run at your own pace.
Don't skip recovery - consistency matters more than speed.

Route & Dates

Day 1 October 24
The Park Club, Shivaji Park

Day 2 October 25
Novotel, Juhu Beach

Day 3 October 26
Madame Cama Road

Day 4 October 27
Eastern Express Highway (Ghatkopar Depot)

Day 5 October 28
Mahalaxmi Race Course

Day 6 October 29
CST Viewing Gallery

Day 7 October 30
Bandra Fort

Day 8 October 31
Chembur (Diamond Garden)

Day 9 November 1
Worli Promenade

Day 10 November 2
NCPA