By Kelly Wood


Staying fit and in shape has never been so popular. Many people are now looking for ways to add extra fun and interest to their workouts. Training for a competition makes all the hard work worthwhile and gives the person focus and determination. As part of the fitness movement several new sports are emerging. Races that combine fitness, strength and agility are becoming increasingly popular and many people are looking for the best obstacle course races in their area.

This type of race is fun and varied. There are events all over the country on just about every weekend. Each course is unique has has been constructed with different obstacles and challenges. The overall distance will also vary with each race. Participants should look for something that is within their current level of fitness. Those who are new to the sport should choose a less challenging race to begin with.

Most races are advertised on line. The rules, entry fees, terms and conditions and type of obstacles should all be described in detail. A big feature of most races is mud and water. Thick mud is really difficult to negotiate and will slow down all but the very fittest athlete. It is also hard to duplicate such conditions in training and many people are simply not prepared for the physically draining effects of wading through mud.

The obstacles are often very creatively designed. Climbing walls are very popular and can vary in height and angle of slope. Most courses have a system of penalties for missing or failed to negotiate an obstacle. In some races the competitor can choose to miss a difficult section and take a penalty. In others they are given one try and a failure penalty such as complete ten push ups. This helps to reduce the congestion at the obstacles and keep the race moving along.

A big race will usually have the competitors move off in groups. This will help to prevent too much back up at the obstacles. Each race can set its own rules. Some allow the competitors to miss an obstacle and instead take a penalty. Others allow them one try and if they fail they have to move aside. This gives the more serious individuals the chance to keep moving.

Competing in a race does not require too much equipment. The most important thing is a good quality pair of shoes. These should be specially designed for racing, with extra grip soles and durability. Most people also like a light weight shoe that drains easily after being in the water.

Finding a race is not difficult. Many people network with friends to find somewhere suitable to start. It is important to begin with a more low key event that is not too competitive. This will provide a good introduction to the sport without too much pressure.

One of the easiest ways to find the best obstacle course races is to check on line. Many competitors go to the site and leave their comments. This gives newcomers an opportunity to judge the challenge level of the race and see if it right for them.




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