Obstacle course racing has become incredibly popular in the past decade. You have probably seen advertisements for events like the Spartan Race or the Warrior Dash. You know: the ads where participants are mud-covered as they leap over fires. But what is an obstacle course race, anyway?
Unlike other sports like triathlon or cycling, there really isn't any kind of organization that governs or defines these events. However, most people would agree on the basic definition that an obstacle course race is an event where participants run thorough a course that contains various obstacles ranging in difficulty. More often than not, at least one (and usually many) of the obstacles involve a mud pit. That's why obstacle course races are often referred to as a mud runs.
But aside from these basic principles, you will find a ton of variation on obstacle course races. There are very long and intense courses that require a great deal of training that may last for an entire day or more.
Other races are more catered to the general public where pretty much anybody can train for and participate in a race. These beginner level races are about 3 miles long and include 10-20 obstacles that most fit people can do. Common obstacles require contestants to crawl under things, climb over things and balance on things.
Hundreds of obstacle races and mud runs happen every year across the country. The leading races like Warrior Dash and Spartan put on about 40 events each worldwide. However, plenty of other national series, as well as many local events have established a presence in the sport. Many of these events structure their races around themes. For example the "Foam Fest" has foam covering many of their obstacles, which include an inflatable slip and slide.
With the exception of a few very competitive races, contestants are free to go around any obstacles they may not be able to do. In the competitive races, a competitor who cannot do an obstacle may not be eligible for awards or may have to wait in a "penalty box" for a few minutes.
Most races maintain a very relaxed and casual atmosphere. Many people wear goofy costumes during the event and look forward to their free beer at the finish line party. This fun atmosphere is part of what has drawn in so many people to these types of events.
Obstacle course racing has inspired many people to reach their fitness goals. Why not see what all the hype is about?
Unlike other sports like triathlon or cycling, there really isn't any kind of organization that governs or defines these events. However, most people would agree on the basic definition that an obstacle course race is an event where participants run thorough a course that contains various obstacles ranging in difficulty. More often than not, at least one (and usually many) of the obstacles involve a mud pit. That's why obstacle course races are often referred to as a mud runs.
But aside from these basic principles, you will find a ton of variation on obstacle course races. There are very long and intense courses that require a great deal of training that may last for an entire day or more.
Other races are more catered to the general public where pretty much anybody can train for and participate in a race. These beginner level races are about 3 miles long and include 10-20 obstacles that most fit people can do. Common obstacles require contestants to crawl under things, climb over things and balance on things.
Hundreds of obstacle races and mud runs happen every year across the country. The leading races like Warrior Dash and Spartan put on about 40 events each worldwide. However, plenty of other national series, as well as many local events have established a presence in the sport. Many of these events structure their races around themes. For example the "Foam Fest" has foam covering many of their obstacles, which include an inflatable slip and slide.
With the exception of a few very competitive races, contestants are free to go around any obstacles they may not be able to do. In the competitive races, a competitor who cannot do an obstacle may not be eligible for awards or may have to wait in a "penalty box" for a few minutes.
Most races maintain a very relaxed and casual atmosphere. Many people wear goofy costumes during the event and look forward to their free beer at the finish line party. This fun atmosphere is part of what has drawn in so many people to these types of events.
Obstacle course racing has inspired many people to reach their fitness goals. Why not see what all the hype is about?
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To find out more about mud running or the best way to go about getting in shape for an event like this, visit Mud Run Training. If you want to find out about events that are coming to your areavisit the Mud Running Calendar .
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