Say ‘hello’ to the newest Tough Mudder obstacle: ‘Castaway.’ Making its debut in Atlanta, GA – the season opener of the 2021 season, Mudder’s were greeted with a treat of innovation from Tough Mudder HQ. This tactical water crossing was a surprise for many that put core skills and your pulling strength to the test.
Upon being met with a pool of water and a waist high rope across the mote like obstacle, you might wonder how one plans to cross it effectively. There is a tube like floatation device that you must straddle and use your upper body strength (and balance) to then pull yourself across. Fun, right?
Core and pulling strength is the name of the game here. Put them both to use by pulling yourself across the water. This obstacle is all about upper body strength, core, and balance. Needless to say, your back, arms and shoulders won’t be your friends after you reach the end of this ordeal. (Pro-Tip: This is best done with a partner, equalizing the weight on the floating tube on each end).
Push Pull training is perfect for this new obstacle. Plus core strength. What are push and pull workout plans? They’re simple but effective ways to get a balanced workout.
Let’s start with the push:
Pull exercises are those where the muscles contract when weight is being pulled towards your body, meaning the work is done when the muscle contracts when you pull. The primary muscles in a pull workout includes all back muscles, biceps, hamstrings, obliques and trapezius. Examples of pull exercise:
Pull-ups
Back Rows
Deadlifts
Rear Shoulder Flys
Bicep curls
Also, Sled Pulls… The legs, glutes, core, back, shoulders, and arms are all thrust into action.
Push Exercises:
A push workout contracts your muscles when weight is being pushed away from your body. The primary muscles in a push workout includes chest, triceps, quadriceps, calves, and shoulders. Examples of push exercises:
Push-Ups
Squats
Shoulder Press.
This is another obstacle that requires teamwork with your bestie as you hop on the floatation device. Balancing out the weight will make for an easier pull across the water, and double the strength from the rope you are using above your head to propel you. Plus, it’s more fun in the event you take a swim. Want more obstacles? Sure you do. Click HERE.
