Why not try…?

Obstacle running isn’t all about scrambling over walls and commando-crawling under nets. Get out in the great outdoors and tackle nature’s own obstacles

Words: Lucy Waterlow

When you hear the term obstacle racing, army-style assault courses and giant inflatables often spring to mind, but you don’t need to take part in such an event to experience the joys of obstacle running. We tackle obstacles all the time when running, including dodging tree roots, climbing up hills and jumping across big, muddy puddles. The more offroad you get, the greater these obstacles become. You might have to scramble up a steep hill, climb over a stile, or splash through a deep stream.

Already excited?

If you want to take on a race which includes natural obstacles, there are plenty of options available. If you’re a member of a running club, cross country league and championship races are often run on courses with extra features to make them so much more than just running around a muddy field. There might be fallen tree logs on the course to steeplechase, flooded ditches to leap across, or larger water crossings where you have no choice but to get your feet wet.

The cross country season runs from October to March, with lots of 10K races available for women. The 10K distance means they’re a good option if you want to try this kind of race without needing to build up super endurance and stamina.

If you fancy a race with natural obstacles but you don’t belong to a running club – or want to test yourself over a longer distance – there are numerous types of trail races held throughout the year that fit the bill.

Race distances range from 5K to ultras and there is a variety of styles on offer. You could do a multi-terrain race, a fell race, a ‘wild’ run, or an adventure race to experience the exhilaration of natural obstacles. These might include wading through a river, crossing muddy bogs so deep you have to crawl along them, or coastal, forest and mountain paths strewn with large rocks or tree roots. You’ll be climbing, jumping and sometimes even swimming to make this race so much more than just a run.

There are also races which mix natural obstacles with manmade ones to give you the full obstacle course experience. Perfect for those who want the extra challenge of scrambling up climbing walls and swinging across monkey bars.

But why do it?

In physical terms, an offroad race with natural obstacles is much more challenging than a road run. It tests your strength and stamina and improves your core and leg strength, as your body has to work to stabilise on the uneven surfaces. The climbing, jumping and dodging involved will test your balance, coordination and reaction times.