How to Prepare For an Obstacle Race

Obstacle races require cardiovascular endurance and strength. They combine running with rope climbing, slithering under barbwire and cargo nets, leaping over fire, carrying sandbags and crawling through freshly dug tunnels.

Here are some tips to prepare for this fun activity.

Practice at the Park

Stimulate obstacles in the park by jumping over picnic tables and fences. Use a park bench to alternate between dips and push-ups. This is excellent because you won’t need a gym membership to get prepared.

Warm-Up

Warming up before training is essential since your entire body will be put to work.  Some good exercises to warm up your core include walking lunges, side planks, and lateral lunges. They help prevent injury and boost performance.

Run Intervals

Slow distance runs for a long period can be effective for training. They build speed and are crucial for obstacle race training. After warming up, alternate between resting and working.

Run Hills

Hills are different from steady paved roads and can help build your endurance. You can use the local park as a training ground. Sprint up the hill and walk down.

Run Offroad

Most obstacle races take place offroad, so it wouldn’t make sense to practice on asphalt or concrete. Challenge yourself to run on sidewalks and other unpaved areas.