Blog Post #8

Hi everyone!

This week, I decided to look a little further into the importance of preparing the physical self to the best of one's ability for an obstacle course race. One of the most important elements of physical preparation for obstacle course training is the competitor's grip and forearm strength. Often times, the course requires you to hang from your hands, pulling yourself up and overall walls, or carrying heavy loads. Monkey bars and rope climbs all require grip and forearm strength. With this in mind, you also have to factor in sweaty conditions, as well as muddy or greasy surfaces - making the challenge that much tougher. 

The best way to increase your forearm strength is by doing pull-ups and push-ups. Incorporating multiple reps of these exercises will allow for the strengthening of your grip.

In addition to this, it should be expected that obstacle races are equivalent to running through the mud and sand along with completing 10 to 30 obstacles. That means your pace is going to be slowed down, while your strength will be put to the test. To train for this type of physical challenge, many recommend weight-vest endurance workouts. A weighted vest adds on the muscular resistance challenge, but also helps in increasing your speed and endurance - both elements that will be put to the test during the race. 

Tips to remember!

Furthermore, there are also important tips to keep in mind as a first time racer!  
One of the repeating tips that I came across while researching the topic is the importance of treating training like race day. Easy jogs in the park will not be enough - incorporate exercises that are similar to what you'll be doing on race day. While doing so, it's also important to balance both cardio and strength training - each should have part of your focus. 

And most important of it all - hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! 

Thanks guys!
Tess