How to get obstacle course event ready

With Tough Mudder done and dusted, and plenty more in the obstacle event scene this year, it can be daunting figuring out how you should train. So in this Trainer Tips interview, I sought out the advice of owner and head coach of Resultz Gym, Mat Skate, for tips on getting course-fit. Prior to opening his gym seven years ago, Mat served for 20 years in the Australian Army – 10 in infantry, 10 as a physical training instructor – making him a man with a fountain of knowledge.

Ask That Fit Girl: Why have obstacle events become so popular?

Mat:  People who live a relatively active lifestyle are always looking for the next challenge, race, or adventure.  The introduction of televised shows such as American Ninja Warrior which has just hit Australian shores has certainly sparked the interest in many obstacle course enthusiasts.  Today, there is so much variety and locations to choose from.  Whereas initially these kind of events were generally reserved for fitter members of the community it is encouraging to see that event organisers are offering more achievable options to cater for a larger portion of the community.

As more people become exposed to, and encouraged to participate in these events, popularity has soared. Why wouldn’t you give it a go!  It is a great talking point with friends and a fantastic achievement for those people who would not necessarily believe they have the capacity to finish such an event.

Ask That Fit Girl: What’s the best type of training to do to get course ready?

Mat: The type of training you require will depend on factors like the distance you choose and what course you’d like to take part in.  Calisthenics type training with a focus on agility and technique would be your best option to get course ready.  Think of a gymnast and their strength in relation to their own body weight. Now add in a good cardio base say of a 10 km or half marathon runner and you probably have the most effective obstacle course racer.  I don’t know how many times I have overtaken some with of the bigger, heavier set guys whilst racing.  Of course they look great and can lift heavy things; the problem is many lack the aerobic capacity to maintain a consistent speed out on the course.

Specific based training also plays a big part.  There are numerous obstacles such as rope climbing and traversing that a lot of us don’t know the right technique to negotiate these obstacles successfully.  Many of these obstacles do not require a huge amount of strength.  Learning the correct technique is the key to negotiating obstacles.  Without the right technique you find many people muscling their way through each obstacle and find themselves exhausted on the other side and needing a rest.

Ask That Fit Girl: How can you mentally prepare for the event to keep you going on event day?

Mat: Each year, I’ve had a percentage of people who join my teams and stress out to the point where they are almost physically ill. This is not a great way to start an event that you want to get a positive experience from.  Go out there and simply have fun.  That’s right; forget about how well you go or how tough some of the obstacles are.  Firstly start with acknowledging that you are at the start line and that is a huge achievement in itself.  You are probably in the top 1% of the population who would even consider stepping up and participating in a challenge such as an obstacle course event.  Treat it as an experience rather than a competition.

When the Resultz Gym team participates in multiple events each year we go in there with one clear outcome: “We start as a team and we finish as a team.”

Ask That Fit Girl: What advice do you have for someone taking on their first obstacle course event this year?  

Mat: ­­­­­Most people are extremely apprehensive about doing an event such as this on their own or even as a duo.  If it is your first event, look around for a team to join.  When you’re part of a team, it can make your first experience of an obstacle course event so much more positive and you would probably be super keen to repeat that experience again.

If you are going solo or with a friend I would encourage you to take your time and not get caught up in the moment at the start, sprint off at 100 mph will and then hit the wall 500 m down the track where you are totally exhausted.  Take in the scenery (because most of these events are run at lovely locations) and have an enjoyable and challenging time whilst negotiating these obstacles.  And, let’s face it, this is one of those times where you can get absolutely filthy and muddy and not get in trouble. 🙂

Mat uses his ex-Army training to get results.

Mat is a qualified personal trainer, with Certificate III and IV in Fitness and is a Certified Level 1, 2 and 3 Metabolic Precision Coach. In addition to serving his country in the Australian Army, Mat is a former Queensland marathon and half marathon champion (2008), competing domestically and internationally.

Follow Mat on Facebook for his latest fitness tips, advice and videos. If you’d like to join Mat’s team for True Grit in August, email mat@resultzgym.com.au for the details.

Like what you’ve read? Mat offers 1 FREE week to all new comers to his Boot Camp Membership. Simply email Mat for the details or phone 0414 474 040. Thanks heaps, Mat!