When I announced me and my crew would be competing in a Tough Mudder event, it was still the middle of never-ending winter here in NY and training for Tough Mudder (the way I envisioned) seemed like a far fetched dream. But now–BOOM! It’s May, it’s hot, and all I can think about is Tough Mudder training. I want to be super prepared for this event (it will be my first adventure race of any sort) so I compiled a sort of resource guide to make sure I don’t miss anything.
1. The Tough Mudder 2015 Obstacle Training Guide
Number one has to be the comprehensive PDF Tough Mudder themselves put together. It’s a 14 page document with a brief summary of each event and 3 exercises they suggest to get you ready to perform. What I like about this guide is that the exercises are all demoed in a park setting, using natural resources like benches. This is my number one way of working out, so I can easily take advantage of these exercises (some of which already are part of my regular routine).
Of course though, the PDF is just that–a PDF. I would definitely suggest visiting Tough Mudder’s website to view videos of the obstacles to get the full effect (the pictures DO NOT do them justice). My goal is to focus on one per week and design exercises to simulate them.
2. The Ultimate Guide to Your First Obstacle Race
I know from my triathlon experience that there are ins and outs only learned after years of racing and wishing you either had this or done that differently. I also am very big on mentally preparing for races. I visualize the entire race–like, the whole thing. So doing something different for the very first time has the potential to induce a little anxiety. I came across this soup to nuts guide outlining what to expect, what to bring, and how to train. Hopefully reading up on these tips will put me ahead of the game in the Tough Mudder experience department. This is just one of the sample graphics from the guide.
Source: Fix.com
3. The Top 10 Tough Mudder Training Tips
And you can’t go wrong with a Top 10 list. These tips are by Andy Thom, six-time Tough Mudder veteran, Alex Patterson, Tough Mudder’s emcee and chief marketing officer Jim Nix, Tough Mudder coach. Tips like #8, wearing gloves–I probably would’ve never though of that. And #4…you know how I can get about sneakers!
I better start breaking in a pair now.
Have you done a Tough Mudder or other adventure race?
Please share you experiences and tips below!
This post is linked up at Wild Workout Wednesday with Annmarie from The Fit Foodie Mama, Angelena Marie from Angelena Marie: Happy, Healthy & Balanced , Sarah at Creating Better Tomorrow and Amber at Bold Fit Mom. Check them out for more workout ideas, motivation, inspiration and recipes to try!
I’ve done a few much easier obstacle course races. I like the idea of them and using upper buddy strength but I don’t like the mud aspect. I am afraid I will twist my ankle! Good luck sounds like you have a great plan
Deborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner recently posted…Why I Coach Girls On The Run
Yeah, I’m totally dreading cold water and mud in my eyes! Definitely excited about working on my pull up strength in preparation though…I’ve never completely focused on pull ups before, so I’m curious to see how I’ll do.
I just signed up for a mud dash so this is SUPER useful as I can’t lie…I’m a bit scared 🙂
Sarah@creatingbettertomorrow recently posted…Exercise With Your Baby
That’s great! One of the tips in the resources was to just have fun with it, and not to panic if you truly can’t complete an obstacle (you can always just go around it)–but I’m sure we won’t need to worry about that!
Maybe one day I’ll go for some obstacle race. It really sounds like fun. But first, running again. 😉
Awesome infographic!
Debbie recently posted…Wednesdayâs Wisdom Link Up # 17
Thanks! It’s def going to be a new experience for me! I can’t take credit for the infographic! That’s from fix.com…click on their link for more.
That’s great you’re stepping up to the challenge. Me I’m not so sure about the mud and slippery conditions. I’m getting up there is age and noticed getting back from injury gets longer nowadays. Good luck!
Marjie recently posted…What is the Best Cardio Machine to Burn Calories?
Thanks! Never count yourself out! I’m sure it’s going to be an awesome experience.