A post shared by Kimberly Sue Chiu 🌸 (@chinitaprincess) on Mar 5, 2017 at 4:37am PST

MANILA – There is always a first time for everything.

Kim Chiu joined her first-ever duathlon race on Sunday which, the actress claims, pushed her to her limits.

On Instagram, Chiu revealed that she decided to change her lifestyle at the beginning of the year by becoming more active.

Although she really intended to join a duathlon in the middle of 2017, this was pushed a little earlier, thanks to her “Ikaw Lang Ang Iibigin” co-star Jake Cuenca.

A post shared by Kimberly Sue Chiu 🌸 (@chinitaprincess) on Mar 5, 2017 at 4:50am PST

“Jake asked me if I wanted to join this March 5. I know I don't have enough time to train within a month but since I want adventure and thrills, here I am! I took the challenge,” she wrote on social media.

Chiu said training for the race has taught her a lot of things like discipline and time management.

“I've learned more about myself, how strong I can be, how far I can go and overcoming the pains, body pain, cramps, etc. Pain makes you stronger, pain gives you the opportunity to become better! You just have to keep pushing until you get your goal, to finish strong,” she said.

A post shared by Kimberly Sue Chiu 🌸 (@chinitaprincess) on Mar 5, 2017 at 5:16am PST

Chiu did encounter some obstacles during the race. But she clung to her faith and determination to get a finisher medal.

“I was so scared and nervous I didn't stop praying (Glory Be hundred times) 'coz I didn't want to quit. Sabi ko na lang it’s all in the mind! It’s all in the mind,” she said.

After the race, Chiu is now proud to call herself a certified duathlete.