Hints & Tips
Entering a team?
In 2007 there were approx 7,000 applications for 4,000 places! Early entry is therefore recommended to guarantee a place.
It's a team thing
There is a very good reason you have to enter the Challenge in teams of no-less-than-three and that is to engender team spirit and to work together to get you round the course as one unit.
You can use this to your advantage by giving each other encouragement - particularly those team members who may be struggling with some aspects of the course.
You will also have someone there should you get into one of the many boggy obstacles and need help to get out
Finally - and just as importantly - the Finish Stewards will only give you a finish time when your last team member crosses the finish line. No point the 'fitties' legging it.
Footloose
Remember to tie your laces tightly or you ARE going to lose your footwear.
There are enough challenges throughout the course without having to play underwater 'hunt the trainer' every time you get out of a pool or bog - so make sure your shoes are secure.
The Organisers strongly recommend footwear which gives high ankle support
What to wear
It really is worth a visit to your local Army Surplus as old combats will not only protect you from cuts & scratches, but also protect your knees in the tunnels.
A light stretchy top will be easiest to run in when you are wet.
The Organisers strongly recommend full arm and leg coverage for this event to help prevent cuts & scratches
Skip it
Its worth remembering that the kit you have worn round the course won't be good for anything other than throwing in the skips provided. The Organisers therefore strongly recommend you dump your gear in the skips rather than washing it - so leave your new 'breathable' stuff at home.
However - if for some strange reason you do want to take it home bring a black sack with you as these arn't available at the event.
PLEA FROM THE VOLUNTEERS - please put all the kit you dont want to take home in the skips provided. In 2006 we filled a whole builders skip with clothes left in the car park after you had gone home. Thanks
May the force be with you
Remember - this is a military fitness test and you should train like the Marines do. During your training runs, drop and do press-ups, squats and crunches. This will prepare you for the frequent mid-race changes from running to crawling and back again
Do's and Dont's
DO's:
- Do seek advice if you are unsure about your ability to undertake the Challenge
- Do try and train with a partner - after all, this is a Team event
- Do follow a correct warm-up and cool down regime
- Do contact your Doctor if you acquire any abnormal aches or pains
- Do wear reflective clothing if you are training at night
DONT's:
- Dont train with an injury
- Dont train if you feel unwell
- Dont train too soon after a meal - wait at least 2 hours or longer after a heavy meal
- Dont train if you have consumed a large amount of alcohol
IN THE EVENT OF AN INJURY, STOP IMMEDIATELY, REST AND SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE
