Splits Challenge Week 1: The Struggle, The Stretch, The Small Wins
We’re one week into our Splits Challenge, and wow—it’s been a mix of excitement, tight hamstrings, and some unexpected progress. Both Valentina and I have been documenting our journey, and today, we’re sharing our reflections, struggles, and some very real Day 1 stretch photos.
Moon-Flow
Splits Challenge
Check-in Week 1
The Struggle, The Stretch, The Small Wins
Week 1 Check-In
The Reality of Starting
Valentina’s Journal: : Week 1
Hi, I’m Valentina, one of the co-founders of Moon-Flow, and I’m so excited to share my journey with you during our split challenge. If I’m being honest, flexibility has never been my strength—I’ve never been able to do the splits, not even close! But when we launched this challenge, I knew it was time to push myself and step out of my comfort zone. I live in beautiful Berlin, and I recently turned 26. I’ve been practicing Pilates two to three times a week, which keeps me moving and grounded, but the idea of achieving a full split still feels like a big leap—literally!
To make things even more interesting, I started this challenge during my luteal phase. For those who follow cycle syncing, you’ll know it’s the time when energy levels drop, cravings take over, and everything feels a little slower. I’ve been feeling tired most days, indulging in sweets, and reaching for comfort foods instead of nourishing my body the way I should. It’s been a humbling reminder that progress isn’t always linear, but it’s still progress.
This first week has been challenging, but it’s also been a lesson in patience and self-compassion. I’m not just doing this for myself—I’m doing it as a way to show anyone who’s thinking of starting that it’s okay to begin exactly where you are and embrace the journey, no matter how imperfect it feels. I may not be there yet, but I’m motivated to keep stretching, growing, and proving to myself that progress comes with consistency and care.
Valérie’s Journal: Week 1
Starting this splits challenge, I felt motivated but also a little lost. I’ve done yoga and Pilates for years and even did ballet as a kid, so flexibility isn’t entirely new to me. But being tall with long limbs, deep flexibility has always felt like a challenge—almost like my body wasn't built for it.
The first few days, I went all in, doing way too many stretches and not really holding them long enough to make a difference. I thought more was better, but I quickly realized that stretching works best when you keep it simple and focus on consistency. Now, I’ve narrowed it down to 4-5 key stretches, holding each for a full minute, and I’m finally starting to feel more in control of my routine.
Here are a few things I’ve learned this week that might help you too:
Less is more. Instead of overwhelming yourself with 15 different stretches, pick a few that really target the areas you need to work on and commit to them. Quality over quantity!
Breathe through it. I didn’t realize how much breathing can actually help you relax and go deeper into a stretch. The more you breathe, the easier it gets.
Warm up first. Seriously, stretching cold muscles isn’t fun. A quick warm-up (even just a few jumping jacks or dynamic moves) makes everything feel smoother and safer.
Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Whether it’s the physical stretch or the mental patience it takes to stay still, learning to sit with the discomfort is half the battle.
I haven’t seen any major changes yet, but I’m feeling good about finally getting into a rhythm that works. Progress might be slow, but every stretch is a step closer—and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.
Key Takeaways from Week 1
💡 Stretching every day makes a difference – Even if it’s just a short session.
💡 Hydration matters – Staying flexible starts from within!
💡 Listen to your body – Some days you can push further, other days you need to ease up.
💡 Progress isn’t linear – And that’s totally okay.
