September 27th, 2019

A challenging course is an adult level obstacle course. They come from many levels from basic ropes courses meant for teamwork to Tough Mudders, and Spartan Races meant to push your body to the next level. Focusing on the latter, and you will see people competing to beat their personal best, become a healthier person, raise money for someone or something, or run to prove or challenge a point.

These races are mentally and physically exhausting. While some can be a 5K, others can be a half-marathon. No matter what race length you choose, there will be several hard obstacles to go over, under, or through. Here’s a look at what you can expect on your first time running in a challenge race.

Fun in the Party Zone

No challenge racecourse is complete without a party zone. In general, you can expect drinks and pictures as well as awards to be given out here. In addition, you can sometimes expect food, music, and vendors. During the Tough Mudder, this is the space where you get your free drink for running the race. Make sure to take full advantage of it. You deserve it!

Comradery

While many run these races as fast as possible, a challenge course for many is something they want to overcome at their own pace. This means it is easy to find people who are around your level that you can run with. You can help each other go through obstacles and keep each other running. In the end, don’t forget to grab a photo with your new friends.

Pushed Limits

When you run a challenge course, many of the obstacles are meant to push your mental and physical limits — for example, going into ice water and under a barricade. Many will have to keep their head in the game to get past these types of challenges. Should you be able to take them all, by the end of the race, you will have learned just what mind over matter means. 

Filth

A challenging course is more than a race that you run through and go over things. Many of the obstacles are about getting dirty. For example, both the Spartan Races and the Tough Mudder feature mud as one of the main obstacles. This can be tough for those that aren’t used to be 100% covered in filth. Just remember, bring clothes and a towel. There is usually running water at the end to shower off with.

Spectators

Most of these courses feature a spectator ticket of some kind. This allows for people to come in and watch you race. Most of the people with these tickets will be encouraging their friends who are running. However, before you think about bringing someone, let them know that they will likely be walking just as far as you run to see you in each obstacle, at least for the longer courses. 

Photos

Unlike many races, many photos can be found any photos can be found for free by use of a friend that’s willing to come with you. Get a friend who wants to learn to take action photos to come to join in on the action for the price of their ticket and a meal for them. You’ll be able to get some great action shots while they get to practice on a whole number of other competitors. 

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Overall, challenge races are great for helping you push your limits and try new things. In addition, they can bring people together and the party after is usually a good amount of fun. If you’re looking to train, look at going to some smaller ropes courses and kickboxing classes alongside running to train the whole body and mind. In the end, these types of races are some of the best you can run in, at least to some of us here at Bodies in Motion. 

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