Having
spent multiple class periods researching and understanding the importance of
training and preparing a competitor for an obstacle course race, I have created
a much stronger understanding of its significance in one’s success. In this
class, we first started off by exploring different sources of technology and
how we could incorporate those elements within a classroom. With that being
said, we then began to explore different ideas to focus our genius hour
research on. I specifically decided to look at obstacle course training because
I thought it would allow me to also have a closer look at physical fitness and
applying certain concepts to my own future classroom.
The
beginning of my research looked a little closer into the options made available
to new competitors, the recommended dietary requirements, the importance of
physical exercise and training, and overall tips and tricks to remember. A
typical training plan for a beginning to intermediate level competitor ranges
anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks, which integrates a variety of different workouts
targeting different muscle groups. With the vast amount of resources made
available online, both free and requiring small fees and payments, it is
extremely easy for anyone to get started on a workout routine, as long as they
allow enough time for themselves to properly prepare.
A typical 6
week plan targeted towards women specifically include a workout schedule, a
workout “diary”, rest day schedule, and various workout types with images
included for each. Aside from this, you also have multiple options when it
comes to paying for personal training and preparation services. With different
services made available, competitors may sometimes feel that they will not
experience the same level of progress and success unless they pay for the services. However, various
journals and reports I read online discussed the importance of personal
dedication and perseverance as opposed to the amount of personal training
sessions paid for.
In terms of
the other half of the full circle that is obstacle course race training, I
looked at the importance of diet and nutritional requirements and restrictions
that can assist in the success of obstacle course completion. With vegetables,
salad, fruits and protein playing the most important role in your diet – it is
equally important to decrease the amount of “junk” food consumed daily. Carbs
are not the enemy, but rather a crucial part of what contributes to building
muscle and overall strength – both necessary for the completion of the obstacle
course. It is also important to incorporate healthy fats and meats – chicken,
red meat, salmon, tilapia and other sources of protein. Both carbs and protein
should also makeup the small meal consumed within 45 minutes after each workout
– this will assist in the necessary refuel that your body craves after each
physical activity session. Sleep, hydration and vitamin intake are also crucial
throughout the entire preparation period!
Aside from
this, I looked a little further into the different obstacle courses targeting
different groups. There are courses available for women only, such as
“Mudderella”, which focuses on team-building obstacles and activities. There
are also much more “challenging” courses, which include marathons and a higher
level of obstacles.
When
looking at the completion of an obstacle course, you truly have to understand
the journey that one goes through from the moment they commit to the challenge
to the moment they finish it. It is crucial for all competitors to begin by
understanding the significance of realistic and continuous goal-setting and
tracking – which can serve as a personal journal and progress driving force.
SMART goals – specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely – can be
the successful link between the beginning stage and the completion of your plan
of action.
Lastly, I
looked at various tips and tricks that can serve as guiding points for the
competitor – especially someone new to the world of obstacle course races.
Consistency, perseverance and treating every day like race day will bring about
great success in a student. And most important of all, hydrate, hydrate,
hydrate!
I think the
various concepts I’ve uncovered and further looked into throughout my Genius
Hour research will allow for great curriculum and classroom concepts within my
future educational setting. I would bring this knowledge into my current PhysEd
rotary classes, by discussing the knowledge I uncovered and creating a
mini-obstacle course for which students can spend several classes preparing
for. I would create different workouts for each class, and spend some time
reflecting on how each workout can assist to create a full-body level of
preparation for all students.
