When you think of running a Tough Mudder, do the words “yea, right” come to mind? If so, you’re far from 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. And to help prove that, we’ve gone ahead and crafted a list of the top five myths about doing a Tough Mudder.
1. 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. However, 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.
2. You need to train for over 10 hours per week
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 4 to 6 hours a week during training. Besides, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be dedicating at least 1/42 of your week to staying fit anyway. As an added bonus, we have varied training tools to keep you mentally and physically engaged during the weeks leading up to your event. Think of it as a road map we’ve already build out for you. You’re welcome.
3. 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–run another half mile and face another. If you’re not much of a runner, we’re not saying you should write off cardio and agility training, but establishing a beginner workout routine and building from there is a good start. Before the event, we recommend getting to a point where you can walk and run 7 miles without having a meltdown.
4. You have to complete all the obstacles.
You can skip obstacles. Yeah, we said it. If you are severely claustrophobic and can’t swim, don’t be a hero and attempt a water obstacle where you’ll be confined to tight spaces. On the other hand, if you can’t physically complete an obstacle, you can always ask your teammates or other Mudders for some assistance. Whatever your fitness level, you should try 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 into the wind and do it for the story.
5. You’re in competition with your fellow Mudders.
While we do have competitive options for those who want an extra challenge, the wide majority of our events are not timed and not competitive. 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 do it.
No matter the event you find yourself attending this year, one thing remains true. Mudder Nation is a friendly, social bunch, set on better themselves and having fun. No matter where you go, you’ll meet new people, have a chance to share a finisher beer, and maybe find your teammates for a future event.
Ready to commit? The 2023 season is on. Find all of the 2023 Tough Mudder events and sign up details here and start your training today.
