HOW TO TRAIN FOR A TOUGH MUDDER
Tough Mudder is just one of the many endurance events rising in popularity. Just short of a half marathon and run entirely on muddy, rugged trails, Tough Mudder isn't your average race. Facing obstacles every kilometre or so, from crawling under barbed wire and jumping over high walls to swimming through freezing waters and running through a web of dangling live wires which pack a 10,000-volt punch, Tough Mudder is a challenge for any runner.
To help you train and prepare for your first Tough Mudder we've put together these 10 top tips.
1) Train for 10-12 miles
Running 10-12 miles is tough even without the obstacles so make sure you begin your training with enough time to get the miles in.
2) Strength training
Tough Mudder requires you to haul yourself over walls and drag yourself through mud so it helps to have a little strength behind you.
3) Wear the right shoes
With steep terrains, obstacles, and wet sludge expect to be constantly fighting for traction so consider investing in a pair of trail running shoes with an aggressive sole designed to help you grip, you won't regret it!
4) Take some fuel
Expect to be on the course for around 3 hours so stash an energy gel or two in your pocket just in case you start to feel yourself lagging.
Tough Mudder do provide snacks along the way such as bananas, protein bars, and water but it's always best to come prepared.
5) Don't wear your favourite running gear
From snagging on barbed wire to saturating in mud, Tough Mudder is not the place for your favourite running leggings or your lucky running t-shirt. Instead, wear any running clothes that you're not afraid of ruining.
6) Avoid cotton
You might be tempted to throw on an old cotton t-shirt that you don't mind ruining but they're more likely to get heavy when wet and muddy. If it's a colder day, you'll soon start to feel that chill creeping in.
Go for sweat-wicking layers that won't absorb any mud, they'll be easier to wash too.
7) Go in a team
If you can, drag a few friends or family along with you too. You'll have someone to share the experience with, not to mention give you a helping hand over the big walls!
8) Wear gloves
Consider wearing fingerless weight lifting or cycling gloves; the extra grip will help you grab onto obstacles while protecting your hands.
9) Expect the unexpected
Tough Mudder mix up the course and obstacles every year, so even if you've run it before, it feels like a fresh challenge.
10) Have fun!
The secret to Tough Mudder is to have fun. Treat the obstacles as challenges, not gruelling hitches and hurdes.
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