How to Become a Tough Mudder

If you are driven to complete the ultimate physical and mental challenge and aren't afraid of a little mud, you too can be a "Tough Mudder." Known as the toughest event on the planet, and awarded "Best Adventure Race" by Travlete, the Tough Mudder race was the brainchild of Harvard Business School graduates William Dean and Guy Livingstone. The course was designed by the British Special Forces and spans between 7 and 12 miles of rough terrain with 20 challenging obstacles to tackle along the way. Conquering this challenge through teamwork and camaraderie is the Tough Mudder vision. Ensuring top physical conditioning and committing to a challenging training program will get you ready to become a Tough Mudder.

Things You'll Need

  • Training plan with cardio and strength exercises
  • Kettle bells or dumb-bells
  • Treadmill (optional)
  • Photo I.D.
  • Copy of race registration
  • Completed death waiver form
  • Lightweight and quick drying apparel
  • Athletic shoes
  • Thick socks
  • Gloves
  • Change of clothes and shoes
  • Water and energy bars
  • Cleansing wipes
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Instructions

  1. Training

    • 1

      Plan out a training program at least three months in advance of race and stick to it. Mix cardio and strength training within your workout regimen. Begin jogging at a moderate pace for five minutes and increase to full sprint for one minute. Bring speed back down and continue alternating between jogging and sprinting for a total of 35 minutes. Run on various courses with varying terrain as often as possible. To build upper body strength in order to successfully complete the various obstacles on the course, do a series of push ups and kettle bell or dumb-bell exercises on the days you do not run. Work out at least three times per week up until race day.

    • 2

      If you are not participating solo, build a team. Reach out to friends and family members interested in fitness, endurance and adventure racing. Together, plan a team outfit and meet regularly to keep each other motivated and positive. Practice and time sprint runs, and look for opportunities to train together in inclement weather conditions to prepare for the race course which includes cold water swims and mud tunnel crawls. Together, practice log carries, rope climbing and other upper body exercises such as using monkey bars or rock climbing walls.

    • 3

      Commit to a healthy diet during training. Focus on high protein, high carb foods to maintain stamina during training period. On the night before race, eat a meal high in carbs such as pasta and drink plenty of water for hydration.