Endurance events are increasingly becoming part of the athletic person’s dream. However, if you’re looking for an event that offers a challenge for all skill levels but the only competitor is yourself, then you should consider a Tough Mudder event.
What Is a Tough Mudder?
A Tough Mudder is a 10-mile to 12-mile endurance race event filled with a muddy obstacle course. Its purpose is to promote teamwork through overcoming obstacles. Tough Mudder events vary from challenges for the general public to competitive races for the elite athlete. The only requirement of a Tough Mudder is that you are working with a team.
Tough Mudders are also sometimes called Spartan Races, Iron Mans, Muddy Buddys, or Warrior Dashes. Most can be completed in 1-4 hours depending on the length of the course and participants. They consist of a run and average between 10 and 15 obstacles.
Many of these events end in a celebratory festival where you can enjoy beverages, food, and sometimes music. Some Tough Mudders also include a kid-friendly race, which makes it the perfect affair for families, friends, and participants alike.
The History of the Tough Mudder
The first Tough Mudder took place in Allentown, Pennsylvania in May 2010. It was started by two Harvard Business School students: Englishmen Will Dean and Guy Livingstone. Roughly 4,500 individuals attended the first Tough Mudder, and the event continues to grow substantially every year.
The same year, two more races followed the initial event, and there were 14 such races in 2011. By 2012, the Tough Mudder became a yearly occurrence. This includes the 24-hour Tough Mudder championship race, which started in New Jersey and is now held in the desert outside of Las Vegas.
Obstacles of A Tough Mudder
Each event can differ from one another but possible obstacles include a giant ice bath, a steep ascent, dashing through 10,000 volts of electricity, a run through mud, a wet vertical climb, a tight rope walk, a three-obstacle gauntlet challenge, a balance test, a cage crawl, and many more.
How to Train
The first step to begin training for a Tough Mudder is to focus on fitness in general. This includes cardio, weight lifting, grip strength, good eating habits, getting plenty of rest and sleep, and positive thinking.
Remember, whether you’re a professional athlete, a gym enthusiast, or a novice, attitude is everything. Work at your own pace, keeping in mind that this isn’t your average event and average training isn’t going to cut it. You should incorporate a little bit of everything a few times per week. Think of your training as a dress rehearsal.
From cardio and strength training to stretching and recovering, everything you practice should feel comfortable and familiar by the time you get to race day. If you find that you need a bit more motivation, get a “mud-bud” to hold each other accountable. When you sign up for a Tough Mudder almost all of them offer training plans and schedules, making it that much easier to be well-prepared and confident.
Rules, Regulations, and Fees
You must be at least 13 or 14 years old for most Tough Mudder challenges. Some require that you are a minimum of 18 years of age. For kid mudder events, ages range between 5 and 12.
Though Tough Mudders are intended for teams, it is sometimes possible to join as an individual. Check with your specific event first. Your fees will vary depending on the length of the race, the number of participants, and extra fees associated with registration. Costs begin from $30 and can be in excess of $100.
Interesting and Fun Facts
You can receive a free entry if you get the Tough Mudder logo tattoed on your body.
British Special Forces designed the Tough Mudder obstacle course.
Tough Mudders are intended for groups, but should you find yourself alone, rest assured that there will always be someone reaching out with a helping hand.
There is a members-only organization for people who consider themselves Tough Mudder addicts called the Mudder Legion.
Taking the Plunge
When you participate in a Tough Mudder you’re not only committing to self-improvement but you’re taking part in supporting many charities that benefit from these events. You’ve trained as best you could, you’re excited to show off your skills, and now it’s time to see what you’re made of.
Test your physical stamina and mental strength while developing your teamwork ethics and get ready for the muddiest and most rewarding event you will ever experience.