When you think of running a Tough Mudder, do the words “Yeah, right,” come to mind? If so, you’re not alone. We are always shocked to discover just how many Tough Mudder finishers thought they wouldn’t be able to finish a Tough Mudder before signing up. The takeaway here? We’re all stronger and more capable of accomplishing lofty goals than we think. To help hammer home that point, we’re bringing you face-to-face with all the lies you’ve been told about Tough Mudder events. Time to set the record straight, Mudders.
Don’t Believe These Myths You’ve Heard About Tough Mudder Events:
“You need to be super jacked.”
If you have a 6-pack and chiseled arms, more power to you. You probably look great in that tank top – and that’s worth something to some people. But if you’ve yet to reach Greek-god (or goddess) physique status, don’t worry: You don’t need all those bodily bells and whistles to achieve Tough Mudder glory. What you do need is some workout regularity and a whole lotta mental grit and determination. You have to really want to cross that finish line and accept that you’re going to have to get out of your comfort zone to get there. After the first obstacle, you’ll feel the adrenaline rush and encouragement from other Mudders helping push you through, and wonder why you ever doubted yourself in the first place.
“You need to train for over 10 hours each week.”
Every gym has its constant regulars – you know, those people you always see working out at your gym, no matter what time of day you go? Well, you don’t have to be one of them to run a Tough Mudder. Most of our past participants worked out for 4 to 6 hours a week while training for their event (which they conquered in strides, by the way). Besides, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be dedicating at least two percent of your week to staying fit and mentally sound anyway. As an added bonus, we have varied training tools to keep you physically engaged during the weeks leading up to your event. You’ve got all the ingredients for an unforgettable experience at your disposable – it’s just up to you to put in the work.
“You need to be able to run 10 miles.”
A Tough Mudder course is interspersed with military-style obstacles. For the most part, you run one mile and then face an obstacle, then run another half mile and face another – and so on. Some (um, mostly all) of our courses are muddy and feature rolling hills, so we’re definitely not saying you should write off cardio entirely. Establishing a beginner workout routine featuring a mix of walking and running as far as you can and building from there is a great start. Before the event, we recommend getting to a point where you can walk and run 7 miles without having a meltdown. Plus, nearly every event on the 2025 calendar features a 5K option, so if all else fails, you can just walk it on in to the finish.
“You have to complete all of the obstacles.”
Don’t tell our friends over at Spartan, but at Tough Mudder events, you can skip obstacles. Yeah, we said it. If you’re severely claustrophobic and can’t swim, don’t be a hero and attempt a water obstacle where you’ll be confined to tight spaces. And since we’re all about teamwork, if you can’t physically complete an obstacle, you can always ask your teammates or other Mudders for some assistance. Who knows, you might meet your new best friend.
Whatever your fitness level, we recommend at least trying to complete as many obstacles as you realistically can. Tough Mudder is about trying things that challenge and sometimes even scare you. Sure, you have the option to skip, but facing your fears is way more badass than standing on the sidelines. When it comes down to it, silently repeat your favorite motivational quote, throw caution to the wind, and do it for the story.
“You’re in competition with your fellow Mudders.”
While we do have competitive, endurance-focused options for those who want an extra challenge, the wide majority of our events are not timed and non-competitive. At Tough Mudder events, you are your own competition. The goal is to achieve your own personal best and have fun doing it. Many obstacles encourage teamwork and you’ll often hear fellow Mudders cheering you on and showing you how to approach it.
Whichever event you find yourself attending this year, one thing remains true: Mudder Nation is a friendly, social bunch, set on bettering themselves and having fun. No matter where you go, you’ll meet new people, have a chance to share a finisher beer (or water – whatever fits your vibe), and maybe find your lifelong squad or teammates for a future event.
Ready to commit? The 2025 season is on. Search through all of the 2025 Tough Mudder events and start your training today.
