This week, I looked a little further into the kind of preparation that is required from participants in order to succeed in an obstacle course race, along with collecting any interesting facts I came across while doing so. A typical training plan ranges anywhere from 6-8 weeks for a beginner level competitor, including integrated workouts. In 2013 alone, over 2 million people competed in an obstacle course - a number that only continues to increase annually.
Each free of charge workout found online includes guidelines, such as highlighting the importance of warming up before every workout, and understanding the importance of being comfortable in mud and dirt. A typical 6 week workout plan on Women's Running website a workout schedule/calendar, listing resting days, interval running, obstacle running, park bench routines, along with beach & playground workouts. Weeks 1-3 consist of 30 minute workouts, which include running, pull-ups, burpees, mountain climbing and swimming. Weeks 4-6 integrate long distance running, squats, planking, monkey bar workouts and longer periods of strength training.
Aside from this, there are also paid services for those willing to spend the extra cash to prepare for the obstacle course. The "Obstacle Course Training Academy" in Ottawa (www.obstacletraining.ca), charges anywhere from $25 for a single drop-in class, to $340 for a 20-class pack. 1 on 1 personal training is also available, at $400 for 20 sessions.
When looking at trying to understand why the idea of completing obstacle courses has really taken off in the last few years, I found that it was most important to understand the concept behind it. It is intended to provide an exciting experience for fitness enthusiasts especially. These events also provide a sense of accomplishment for having completed such a tough physical challenge, especially for those that love a new competitive and want to release their inner 10-year-olds! On top of all this, obstacle-course races also create a social atmosphere that includes parties and band concerts after the event.
Before and during the next Genius Hour research period, I want to look a little further into dietary requirements and restrictions that increase one's likelihood of successfully completing an obstacle course. I also want to look at different obstacle course races that are targeted towards different groups, along with any additional interesting facts.
One of the main questions that still remain for me is understanding how to set challenging yet achievable goals for someone who is just starting to train. I will continue to research this further next week.
Thanks for reading!
Tess
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| From: Women's Running, 6-Week Obstacle Race Training Plan |
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