6 Ways to Train Outdoors for Your Obstacle Course Race

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The following workout ideas will help you get ready for race day.

Trail Running

Almost all the obstacle races out there are on trails. If you've never run on trails before, then start. It's a different animal. You want to get used to the uneven and rocky ground. With experience, you gain confidence—and you'll most likely perform better.

More: 9 Trail Running Tips for Beginners

Race Distance

The Warrior Dash is generally a 5K. The Tough Mudder and Super Spartan are about 10 to 15 miles. With the Warrior Dash you want to get comfortable running 3.1 miles. With Tough Mudder and Super Spartan you'll want to log more miles. One suggestion is to be comfortable running 13.1 miles on the road because the trails are more challenging.

Hill Repeats

Many courses love to throw lots of hills in there to beat your legs up and make their event harder than others. This will come in handy for the big boys.

More: How to Complete Interval Hill Training

Strength Training

Whether you do CrossFit, hit the gym a couple days a week, or work out at home, being strong will help you survive your race. The Spartan Race throws strength obstacles in like boulder dragging, tire carrying, rope climbing and more. The Tough Mudder has so many difficult obstacles to tackle that your muscles may fatigue if you don't strengthen them prior to the race.

More: 10 Exercises to Get You Race-Day Ready for Your Obstacle Course

Flexibility Training

All the up and down, over and under can certainly take a toll on your body. Incorporate yoga, Pilates of your own daily stretching routine to move over obstacles with easy and prevent injuries.

Obstacle-Specific Workouts

Because obstacle course races are getting so popular, many obstacle-specific classes are popping up around the nation. Find one that's near your or try this online training plan.

More: Race-Day Essentials: What to Pack for Your Obstacle Course

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