4 Ways to Train for an Obstacle Course Race

There are many obstacle course races to choose from. There are fun ones, tough ones, long ones, extreme ones...it seems like there's something for everyone. Obstacle races will definitely challenge your muscles; so you better prepare.

More: A Look at Obstacle Course Racing

Obstacle courses challenge muscles that you may not be used to using, and test your endurance in ways that you haven't been tested. To prepare effectively, get your body used to cardiovascular output while using your muscles.

Crawling, pulling, pushing, and running are all components that you're likely to face. If you have access to climb cargo nets, scale walls, and crawl through pipes, then use it. If not, then the following obstacle course training ideas will help get you physically and mentally ready for your next obstacle course race.

Train for Crawling

Crawling helps build strength while you move across the ground.

How to crawl:

• Get down on all fours.
• Keep your hips low to the ground.
• 'Walk' a distance of 20 to 50 yards, depends on your fitness ability.
• Repeat two to three times.

More: 6 Tips to Get Ready for an Obstacle Race

Pulling out All the Stops

Find a pullup or chinup bar, and lift yourself up off the ground.

How to do a pullup:

• Vary your hand positions to work different muscles: Face palms away for a set, then towards you for a set. Use your muscles to lift your body off the ground and pull up so your chin goes above the bar. 
• Try as many you can to. 
• Repeat it three times.

More: Work Your Muscles With Pullups and Chinups