I never thought I would ever be writing about this because I didn’t think I’d do this event. If I am being totally honest, I used to think it was so stupid. I thought it was just some dumb overpriced event full of sponsors. I am so grateful that Tough Mudder wanted to work with me to attend the event with James, because I had a pretty unforgettable experience. This post is absolutely not sponsored, and I just wanted to talk about my experience during the event, and my plans going forward.
Training
I am a little bit embarrassed to say, I didn’t train for the Tough Mudder. With that being said, I do believe anyone can do this event if they really worked hard and accepted help from strangers! Everyone was so helpful. However with proper training, I know that you can really exceed in the obstacles.
One of my biggest issues was my lack of upper body strength. This held me back in a lot of obstacles that requires me to pull myself up! I definitely received a lot of help from my team, which I am forever grateful! I would say increasing your upper body strength will really help you during this event!
Having gained weight since I was running religiously, I was definitely a little bit winded from all the running in between obstacles. You don’t have to run, but if you want to make good time I definitely recommend it!
Even though I didn’t train specifically for the Tough Mudder, I was still getting my daily exercise in, including yoga, hiking, a bit of running, and pilates.
The Event
We obviously went super hero themed! The event was pretty well organized and we were able to figure out where to go easily. I was a bit nervous at first, mainly because I didn’t want to hold our team behind, but once you start you just get really excited.
I did manage to get a photo in the entrance right before we had to run in and start the race! We all corralled into the start line and listened to the host talk about the race, the history, and teamwork. It was actually very motivating and put me at ease. And then we’re off!
We did around 9-10 obstacles and the first one was a mud crawl to get you really muddy and lookin’ Tough! I was really surprised that the obstacles were not as crowded as I saw in the Youtube videos. We managed to get into each one within minutes and finish quickly!
The Worst Obstacle Ever
My least favorite obstacle, but my greatest achievement was the Mount Everest (also known as a ridiculous half pipe you’re supposed to run up at full speed and then leap to the top like you’re some insane ninja). James made it to the top with ease because he’s amazing and so springy. The rest of the team also made it with ease. Then there’s me- I had not trained for this AT ALL nor have I ever sprinted and exploding up into the air.
I kept running and leaping trying to grab James’ or other people’s hands but I kept missing. I did it around 8 times and was losing so much energy. Finally I leaped and three people caught my limbs and helped me up the top! I honestly felt like crying- I was so proud of myself! Even with all the cuts and bruises, I would absolutely do it again.
This was me right after making it up the pipe!
To Finish or Not To Finish?
We were at the final stretch of the 5K we were running where we reached a fork in the road showing signs for the 5K and signs for the half. At the least second, we decided to take the rest of the half and complete two more obstacles and I am so happy we did! They were super fun and the second to last one was actually one of my favorites!
It was really bitter sweet to get to the finish line. I think we were all still so excited and our adrenaline was pumping so we wanted to keep going!
Will I do this again?
Absolutely! James and I have decided we will definitely be running the FULL next year! I have actually started training with him and I am confident I’ll be in much better shape and really be able to exceed my own goals and expectations! One of my major goals is to be able to make it up the half pipe in one shot! If I can do that, all of the training will be work it for me.
What was the last event you participated in? Let me know in the comments!
Like this post? Check out my post on ways to be healthier!
