Five ways to boost your exercise routine before hitting the obstacle course

November 18, 2020 By

 

Five ways to boost your exercise routine before hitting the obstacle course

It is important to remain a healthy body through exercise and great nutrition. This is especially very important if you want to compete in different types of sports, and one of the most popular sports in the moment is obstacle racing. This type of sport demands a very high endurance and strength, which means that you will have to prepare your body to take the incoming pressure that you will have to endure on the course. This is why you can find the five best ways to boost your exercise routine, so you can give it everything you got on the course. It is, for example, healthy to take a break between workout, and during this time, you can always find your way to an online casino, where you can find lots of entertainment to keep you occupied until the next workout session.

Have a break every other day

If you want to boost your exercise routine, then it is important that you take a break every other day. During this time, you will give your body permission to heal from the last workout session, which has torn in your muscles, and made your body weaker for a short period of time. When you give your body this rest, it will guarantee that your body has the time to heal, which will only make you stronger, when you hit the obstacle course. This break can be hard to take, if you want to see results quickly, but if you choose to work out every day, then you will quickly realise that your body will not heal as it should, and you are more prone to injuries. 

Train both strength and cardio

If you want to see results on the obstacle course, it is important that you train both your cardio and your strength. This will make you both faster and stronger, and you will find that you both have the endurance and the strength to see the course through. That is why you should never do purely one or the other if you want to see results on the obstacle course. If you purely train your strength, you will quickly find that you are not fast or agile enough to keep up with the rest of the team or the rest of the participants, and if you purely train your cardio, you will be both fast and agile, but you will meet obstacles that require all of the strength you have. This will only slow you down, and you will not be able to compete with a good form on the course. 

Have clothes that provides you with comfort

If you want to gain more from your exercise routine, it is important for you to remember that the clothes that you exercise in have a saying in how comfortable you will be, when you are on the course. It is important here that you have clothes that make your body able to breathe, as you push yourself harder and harder on the course. This type of clothes can often be found in sporting goods stores, and you should always go for the clothes that fit tight to your body, so your clothes will not get caught in any of the surrounding obstacles. This will make you both faster and more agile on the course, and you therefore always take your time to find the best possible workout outfit possible before the big day. 

Train with a friend

If you want to gain more from your exercise routine, you should do this with a friend. When you’re  training with others, you are making sure that there are other people to watch what you are doing, making sure that you are doing the correct exercises in the correct way. This will prevent you from getting injuries, and you will also be able to find motivation in competing with each other until the big competition on the obstacle course. When you do this, you are also making sure that there is someone else to keep you in line, when reading your workout routine, which makes you able to perform better on the course, as you are actually exercising the amount that you should. 

Cool down your muscles

If you want to gain the most from your exercise routine, you should always cool down your muscles, after you have trained. This will make the swelling and the ache in your muscles go away, and you will be able to train more quickly and more efficiently, than you would, if you did not do this. If you are having problems with your muscles, when you are working out, it is important that you seek help from a physician, so that you do not worsen your injury.

Filed Under: Training

Workouts And Meal Plans To Consider Before An Obstacle Race

August 1, 2019 By

Workouts And Meal Plans To Consider Before An Obstacle Race

Taking up an obstacle race, it requires getting along with workouts and exercises, as well as control meal plans to maintain a body that is fit to the upcoming event.

Obstacle racing is a sport where you have to overcome multiple physical difficulties while traveling on foot. Many races differ from its distance and the complexity of the challenge, integrating trail running, road running, as well as cross-country running.

Well-known obstacle racecourses today like Tough Mudder, Spartan, Gladiator Assault, and Warrior Dash are blazing towards the country and are becoming the talk of the town. Thus, the Reebok Spartan Race is among the fastest increasing occurrences events around the globe.

Hurdles of this racing include climbing over fences, crossing streams and rivers, lifting heavy items, creeping under barbed wire, and jumping across the fire. But, the race is not only restricted to these obstacles. Other barriers include testing endurance, velocity, mobility, vigor, and cognitive toughness.

Moreover, while thinking about all these obstacles, individuals who are planning to take part must consider pre-workout exercises to avoid muscle strains and unfortunate circumstances.

Essential Exercises

Razing through the obstacles, furthermore, needs proper exercises, and several pieces of training and workouts that can meet the different requirements of obstacle racing. Hence, listed below are some exercises that can help with obstacle racing.

● Hand Over Hand Sled Pulls

Sled pulls exercises are an excellent way to work the muscles located at the back, as well as boost your power using rope throughout all the obstacles. In the race, pulling on strings is among the many barriers used frequently. Thus, practicing this can help you with the track.

Convenience is a significant component of this kind of exercise as people can practice this workout to either a standing or sitting position. Thus, the activity also only uses a rope, sled, as well as some weights that people can easily find it.

Push Up and Down

Obstacle Course Racing requires you to work all of your body’s muscles. Thus, pushing exercises to assist in balancing the pulling. This workout helps chest and triceps support the body in making the legs in leverage.

Individuals may do their styles of pushing. One can use the straight down, straight up, width apart hand and shoulder, as well as you also can start moving your hands before or during pushes. Another way is by using irregular surfaces while moving side to side and getting them with one hand.

● Deadlift

This practice is a frequent movement of weightlifting involving lifting weight from the ground. Most trainers consider the deadlift as the best exercise, especially when accompanied by other routines. Thus, if performed accurately, the benefits of this workout include targeting every single group of muscles in your body, along with many of those hard-to-activate deep tissue muscles.

A study released in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research last January 2015 reveals that deadlifting twice weekly in 10 weeks could boost a person’s vertical jump.

The deadlift operates your hamstrings, glutes, muscles of the abdomen, quadriceps, and muscles in the lower back of the body. Thus, practicing this could help you in the race as it requires effort which is needing the movement of your muscles.

● Farmer’s Walk

This type of workout develops muscles incredibly fast. It cuts body fat, improves strength and efficiency in lifts, while it gives very little danger to gain injury.

There is a big chance that during the obstacle races, one will walk with something substantial in their hands. Thus, it is essential to pick those weights that somehow feels heavy, but at the same time, you have control of it.

Moreover, it is among the most natural way of exercising that you can do. You can pick weights, walk, and repeat it as far as you can. This walk is going to target your shoulders, back, and grip rapidly.

These are just some of the many workouts available that one can practice while preparing for the upcoming races. Thus, along with these exercises, one should also be mindful to what they are eating to maintain body weight, as well as healthy well-being.

Eating Habits And Meal Plans

Along with working out, individuals must consume proper nutrients while also targeting a body that is fit for the race. In preparation for the race, a well-balanced diet is essential to a healthy workout program.

● Avoid Too Much Sugar And Fast Food

First thing’s first. Consuming foods that are rich in sugar, as well as junk food, is a big no to most doctors. It is much better to cut soft drinks, chips, frappe, milk tea, candies, and any other processed foods. These are one of the reasons why an individual gain weight.

You can’t efficiently perform through the obstacle race if you are overweight or unhealthy.

If you like to conquer the race with our best possible shape, you have to consider cutting these habits. Thus, merely working out doesn’t mitigate the adverse impacts of the massive consumption of sugar.

● Consider Eating Blood-Building Foods

An obstacle course racing can take a toll on your body. Thus, while it isn’t happening, you need to eat foods that are building the count of your blood. These foods include green leafy vegetables, beans, beets, red meat, and legumes. A lot of red meat is not needed, but you’ll assist with possible recovery if eaten once or twice weekly if you’re a meat-eater.

Moreover, these foods also help supply the oxygen needed in your body as blood carries oxygen in the body.

● Consume “Good” Carbs And Protein

Fitness enthusiasts believe that during intensive training, carbohydrates are highly significant sources of energy. While trying to take part in an obstacle race, power is an essential factor every competitor should take note.

Consuming sufficient carbohydrates will help you train and recover so that you can be in your best form and as well as perform at your best during the race. Not all carbs are healthy, so pick those that are less processed and are rich in fiber such as whole grains, nuts, and potatoes.

Another factor needed to consume is protein. Most of the bodybuilders are grabbing protein shakes for their exercises. Thus, you can look for the best whey protein powders to assist you with your workouts.

According to WebMD, protein is significant building blocks of bones, cartilage, muscles, blood, and skin. Moreover, most of the hair and nails are made up of protein. The body is using protein in building and repairing tissues.

Obstacle races can cause damage to the muscles. Taking proteins can help cope up with i

Filed Under: Training

How to train for your first ultra-marathon

January 1, 2019 By
So you’ve done some OCRs or some road racing and now you’re ready to step up to the long game. Now what? As a qualifier for the US Men’s 24-hour team (143 miles in 24 hours) and 14-time race winner, I’ve learned a few things along the way.
First and most important question: WHY? Every athlete has their own, very personal, “why” they train and race. What is yours? Is it to push yourself mentally and physically? Is it to check off that bucket list 100-mile race you’ve read so much about? Is it to help build your endurance for the Spartan Ultra Beast or World’s Toughest Mudder? Whatever the reason, you need to know what that reason is and keep it close.

Josh, Jesse, Greg, and Sean at the 2013 WTM.

Once you know your why, the rest comes a little easier. Next comes the distance. Any race over 26.2 miles is considered an ultra. Which do you have in mind? Just stretching your legs a bit to a 50k or do you want to jump in and test your mettle with a 100 miler? Picking your first goal race will be a fun adventure. Mountains? Road? Trail? Desert? Snow? Local? Travel? The options are plentiful, and that’s one of the great things about this sport.
So you know why running an ultra is important to you and now you’ve determined your goal race/distance. All that’s left now is to train for it. That’s not so hard, right? You’re basically doing it already. All you need is to tweak the mileage and how you’re spending your time to achieve the goal. It might be more miles, it might be more elevation. The thing about ultras is training specificity and getting your body ready for your specific “A” race. Here are some tips to get you through.
  • Don’t take yourself too seriously – athletes who go into every workout and every race as make it or break it will inevitably burn out in the sport. Not every run will go perfectly and not every race will end how you want it to. Understand this going in and it’s a lot easier when it happens. So, if you need the extra rest, skip the morning run. If you haven’t seen your friends or family in a while, go out and enjoy the time. Being an ultra-runner takes a big commitment not only from you but everyone around you as well. In the end, a well-rested body supported by those closest to you will propel you much further than a few extra miles will.
  • Build slowly – no matter your current weekly mileage the chances are strong that you’ll have to add in more time and mileage, but don’t freak out about it and don’t expect it to happen overnight. Most effective training blocks are at least 16-20 weeks long with a good existing base, longer even depending on the athlete and goals. You’ll learn where to add a little more time into your running routine each week as needed to meet your goal and simultaneously your body will get stronger through the process. Remember your why and keep focused on it.
  • Run commute – try it out. If you’ve got a shower at or near your office, this is one of the most efficient and enjoyable ways to get in some extra miles and even save some gas and time sitting in traffic. If you can’t run to work, try getting a few miles in during your lunch break instead.

  • Consider using a professional coach – while there will be an added cost to this, it may be worth it depending on your goals and expectations. If you do decide to hire a coach, make sure to interview several of them. You want someone you feel comfortable with 100% of the time, otherwise, it just won’t work. (I know from experience)
Once you’ve gotten all of the details figured out just remember to smile along the way! The ultra community is one of the best out there and very similar to the OCR community in this regard. You’ll see athletes come together and support everyone from the first to the last finisher. Getting out on group weekend trail runs or hitting 20-30+ mile training runs around your city and exploring areas you’ve never seen on foot is some of the most fun ultra training has to offer. If you have any questions along the way or want to talk coaching you can connect with me online through At Your Pace Coaching.
Enjoy the Journey!
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Shamrock OCR Campground-Spartanburg, SC

December 6, 2018 By

What is Shamrock?

There are so many beautiful things about obstacle racing. However, an abundance of training grounds is not one of them. I live in the Upstate of South Carolina, and there are hardly any places to train. The nearest ninja gym is probably four hours away, and how many other places have obstacles? My training typically consists of low elevation (because that’s all we have) trail runs and Yancy Camp in a traditional gym, with some additional runs, rock climbing, and weight lifting here and there. Although I feel like Yancy Camp has made me a lot stronger, one thing that I lack is exposure to the obstacles. Or, at least I was lacking that until I heard from a man named Donovan Brooks about Shamrock.

Who is Donovan?

Donovan Brooks–a high school English teacher in Spartanburg, is also the builder and owner of Shamrock OCR.

Now, if you are a member of various facebook groups in the South Carolina/Georgia area, you may have seen Donovan post on groups offering to come up to play. If you’re not, don’t worry, you’re still invited to play.

Donovan opens his backyard of dreams to the public on Sundays at 9:00 until 12:00, completely free of charge. I REPEAT: YOU COME HERE TO TRAIN COMPLETELY FREE OF CHARGE. THIS IS NOT A DRILL. When he reached out to me, especially once he made it clear to me that it was free, I couldn’t not go. So one Sunday I popped by a little after nine to check it out for myself.

I pulled in to Donovan’s driveway and was greeted immediately by his girlfriend, who ran over to my car with a really big smile on her face. She made sure to make me feel very welcome before I even got out of my car.

 

What do they have at Shamrock?

By the time I finally got out and ready, I got the grand tour. I noticed there were many different hand-built obstacles to choose from, including a Herc Hoist (Spartan), a multi-rig, Olympus (Spartan), the z-wall (Spartan), an 8-foot wall, and of course, a target for everyone’s favorite.. the spear throw.

He also had several pre-made obstacles that you may see including tires for tire flips, sandbags, brute force sandbags, a rope, and some spartan pancakes. All of these things were of course surrounded by a single-track trail and a nice, cool creek to jump into after the workout.

One thing that I’d like to say is that, although Donovan is not a certified SGX coach, he’s been in the OCR game for a hot minute. Basically, what I’d like to say is that Donovan knows how to handle obstacles. He is really good about showing you ways to be successful in obstacle completion, without sounding like he is better. The thing is; the obstacles that Donovan builds are actually way more challenging than they are in races. So, when it comes to race day and you’re really tired, you can man-handle these obstacles like a champ. Shoot, I even had Donovan help show me a different way to throw a spear, and I nailed it easily in my race after that!

However, you haven’t quite made it until you have completed the 300 challenge.

The 300 Challenge

Oh, God, this was one of the toughest things that I have ever done. I’m pretty sure Donovan actually does this so that he can laugh at people.

One part of OCR that is a crucial piece of training is strength training. Which means, carrying around a bunch of heavy shit. For what honestly feels like no good reason sometimes.

And, this situation is absolutely no different.

The 300 Challenge focuses on 3 different heavy carries: farmer’s carry, the bucket carry, and a sandbag. For one mile.

I would write about what it is more, but you may just have to come to find out!

What else can you do at Shamrock?

A typical day at Shamrock starts with a little trot around the property in order to get warmed up. After all, safety is important! Followed by that, we will get together and focus on an obstacle. Donovan is usually pretty good about stopping by and showing us around, or, if we are working toward getting through certain obstacles more efficiently, we will discuss form and technique. We’ll spend some time working on the obstacle together.

Followed by this is a workout. Donovan will use the obstacles that are there and try to incorporate them the best he can. One thing that they like to use is called the Warrior Board Game. We’ll play either as a team or solo, and he will replace come of the commands with completing obstacles. Of course, no OCR preparation would be complete without an obscene amount of burpees, too!

 

 

Once the main set is complete, it’ll be time to revisit that obstacle from before, or, a different obstacle. After all, you’re not going to hit obstacles while you are feeling fresh. You shouldn’t train that way either.

Oh yeah, did I mention that he has a creek behind all of this? You know what that means?

Yes-you guessed it, you may as well bring flip flops because there is a perfect opportunity to take a little ice bath right there! For free! In nature! WITH FRIENDS! It does not get much better than that.

Of course, Donovan also does not mind if you just want to come and play on obstacles.

My thoughts…

The biggest thing that I have enjoyed about Shamrock has been the community. Most of the people who attend are just people looking to make themselves better. Sure, there is some friendly competition, but most of it is that we cheer each other on, even when we really are not feeling like moving forward. Everyone is very positive, and I know that is the atmosphere that I look to be a part of. Going to Shamrock each week really is one of the highlights of my weekends!

So, if you enjoyed what you read, please keep an eye out for one of our posts on Facebook, so that you may join us one Sunday also!

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Spartan Iceland Ultra Beast Gear Prep

December 5, 2018 By

I have been tapped by Obstacle Racing Media to give you my ultimate gear prep list for The Spartan UltraBeast World Championship. It will be taking place this year in Iceland, I was there last year and am excited to be making my 2nd trip. I also just finished the World’s Toughest Mudder which took place in near freezing temps in Atlanta. I also have raced all 4 years of WTM in Vegas, along with several other Spartan Ultra Beasts.
Here’s a summary of what I wore last year in Iceland, and what changes I’m making for 2018.  At the start of the race the wind was whipping, it was quite cold, but not terrible, and the sun was out.  I started with the following gear:
Zensah compression socks in Altra MT King 1.5 shoes.  I wore compression leggings underneath windbreaker pants on bottom.  On top, I wore short sleeve Tesla fleece lined compression top under a Zensah long sleeve compression top and a Patagonia Windbreaker jacket with reinforced seams.  On my head, I wore a fleece lined winter hat and a buff around my neck and the hood of my jacket up.  On my hands, I wore 1mm Blegg Mitts.  It was mandatory to run with a foot care kit and a mylar blanket. I also wanted to carry fuel and hydration so I wore a low profile backpack with that in and I also threw in extra gloves.
Lap 1 was a 5k road run through the city of Hvergerdi and then right into the 6 mile-ish actual obstacle course part of the race.  During that first lap, we got hit with heavy rain that lasted maybe 6 hours! During this time the sun went down and we were starting out 20 hours of darkness.  Everything we had on that was able to absorb water got saturated.  After each lap we were able to pit inside a turf soccer dome which was heated so our extra gear was in a lighted area, dry, and warm.  I carried too much out on lap one and ended up needing to change everything from head to toe at a certain point.  The rain washed away any light snow that was on the ground and made the little thermal rivers we had to cross many times wider.  For example the first couple laps the rivers may have been a foot or two wide and we were able to hop skip and jump on rocks and only get minimally muddy, but as the rain kept falling we were trudging across mid-shin deep water and mud as we approached and crossed these thermal rivers that were now more than 20 feet wide.  The air temperatures were well over 30 degrees and maybe even low 40s, but due to being wet it was tough to keep our body temps up.  After the rain stopped the temperature began to drop.  All that water began to freeze and it literally became Ice-Land.  Because studded shoes, yak traks, and anything else to improve traction was outlawed for the event the new icy conditions became super challenging.  As the hours ticked away the temperature continued to drop and in the wee hours, snow began to fall and cover the ice.  It looked very pretty, but this made the ice even more slippery as now you lost visibility on where to step to avoid slipping and falling down.  As the sun rose the temps didn’t rise significantly enough to decrease the difficulty of the course.

Feet:

Looking back I have a much better idea of what to pack this year.  Studs are still outlawed so I’m just going to go with Altra Mt Kings and Altra Superiors. I had neoprene waterproof socks last year and wore them for a couple laps, but didn’t feel like they helped as water got into them from the tops and couldn’t drain.  So I ended up running in bags of water and my feet stayed wet.  I’m packing them again, but I’ll decide on putting them on after I do a lap or two. Otherwise, I’ll wear my Darn Tough crew length socks and also pack some knee high Zensah compressions too. I didn’t use gaiters last year.  I never thought during the race that I should have packed some, but this year I’ll bring some in case I decide that I want them.

Lower Body

On my legs, I will start in full-length leggings with windbreaker pants over them, but plan to wear my 3mm XCEL Long John wetsuit as the temperature drops I snagged this last minute from Wetsuitwearhouse.com.
I wore this suit at WTM 2018 and it was the most flexible wetsuit I’ve ever worn.  This suit was super flexible and was able to run for 12 hours in it with very little restriction.  I really liked the protection factor on this suit as well.  A huge overlooked challenge by all in 2017 was the fact that you were constantly falling down.  I would describe it as a boxing match and every time you fall your whole body contracts to attempt to catch your balance and brace for impact and then as you hit the ground it’s like a body blow.  The first time you might giggle and then after a few more you might feel a little tipsy, but after hours of falling down each time you hit the ground, you won’t be able to just pop up as you just want to lay there and stare up at the sky.  I’m also going to pack some McDavid Knee and Elbow pads to throw on as the night progresses so that my joints are just a little more protected.

Upper Body

I’m planning long sleeve compression and a NorthFace windbreaker with reinforced seems to start in.  I’ll also pack a fleece top to add as a layer as the night goes on in case I need an additional layer.  I’ll have a couple extra long sleeve compression tops to change into something dry if need be.  I’m also going to bring a 1mm neoprene top and a 2mm neoprene vest as an emergency core layer.

Hands:

I learned last year that if you keep your arms warm than you can literally run with no gloves and your hands will still be warm and sweating.  I will have Blegg Mitts and Neoprene gloves to wear under them though.  In Atlanta 2 weeks ago I used the neoprene gloves under the Blegg Mitts and they worked well.  When I was running my hands stayed comfortable, but when you are touching frozen surfaces, or at Iceland where you’ll be doing 100s of Burpees, your hands will get really cold really quick.  Pro Tip: If you have hand warmers you will get a greater benefit from them by putting them in your sleeve against the underside of your wrist as it warms the blood going into your hand than just holding them.  Dry gloves are far warmer than wet ones, so have a strategy to keep your gloves from getting soaked as I did in case of crazy rain.  Last year I brought these super insulated fleece lined gloves that got soaked at the beginning of the rain and were rendered useless.

Head/Neck:

Find a waterproof or resistant winter hat.  Also, grab a buff to cover your face during the crazy wind so the snow doesn’t hurt your face and can warm the air as you breathe it in.  I also brought snowboarding googles which were great in the windy snow but sucked in the pouring rain.  Bring vaseline to smear on your cheeks, lips, and nostrils to protect against windburn.

Carrying Method:

Athletes either ran with Ultra Vests, or Hydration or SPI belts to carry fuel and hydration.  Because it’s super cold you won’t need to drink a ton of water, but if you overdress you will over sweat and you will need more fluids.  Have a plan to get warm/hot fluids/foods into you between each lap to keep your core temp up, but don’t take too long in the pit!! The soccer dome had plenty of boiling water to make hot chocolate or soup with throughout the night.

Other Gear:

Multiple Headlamps. I like the Black Diamond Waterproof Headlamp and have 2 of them for Iceland as well as multiple other backup lights and a small hand flashlight as an emergency if my headlamp dies while I’m out there.  Also, pack extra batteries!! Rock Tape in case you need a mid-race tape job.  Dry towel to dry off when in to change your clothes.  Bring some big garbage bags to put all your gear in post-race to get it all back to your hotel.  Lastly, you obviously need to pack a clown mask to wear in the deep dark hours to keep the spirits up.
Get to Iceland, enjoy the culture, get some pictures of the Northern Lights and be ready for a whole lotta headlamp running.
Use our discount code ORM15Off at checkout to save some dough!

Wetsuit Wearhouse Discount

 

Matt B. Davis
678-836-8420
obstacleracingmedia.com
theatlantapodcast.com
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Ultra-Running or Endurance OCR? Who are You?

August 29, 2018 By

Seems like ultra-running and endurance OCR attract the same athletes.  But who are they really?  What does it take to tackle the Barkley like Amelia Boone or the Vol State like Rob Greer?  I caught up with my friend Kate Sidoli-Crane to find out what makes her tick through races like the Infinitus 88K.

  1. What is your secret to winning races?

I promise you, I have learned everything I know is by making mistakes and learning from them.

The Secret to winning an Ultra is patience, discipline, and self-confidence.  These are long races, often times you might see people start out really fast, be sure to stay in your own discipline. It’s tempting to get caught up in the excitement at the start of the race, but trust in your training, and run your own race. Believe in your strengths and remind yourself every step of the way. Even if you have to drop back and let a few people pass you, IT’S OK! It’s better in the grand scheme than to try and maintain a speed that may hurt you in the end. There is plenty of time to make up ground, rather than risk burning yourself out too early in the race. Your own self-confidence can carry you further than you could ever imagine. know what you’re good at, exploit it, and feed off of it.

Also, an important element is not putting pressure on myself, where I feel like I need to win. I started this journey many years ago for fun and enjoyment, and it’s very important for me to preserve that. I would never want to take the fun out of racing.  These can be the most fun and challenging adventures, and I feel blessed to have these experiences in my life.

  1. What are your training methods and prep for a race like Palmerton?

I would concentrate on weighted runs alternating use of a ruck, #50lb wreck bag, and sometimes even just adding a weighted vest to normal runs is very helpful to acclimate your cardio to some of the climbs.

Besides the regular strength training, I have also incorporated some other methods like a mile of lunges, or if you really want some fun times, 1 mile of burpees (which was approximately 760 burpees).

The strategy behind these methods more revolves around the mental aspect rather than physical. It’s about getting uncomfortable, and getting through these ominous tasks rather than the physical ability to do 760 burpees or lunge for a mile.

  1. What is your race strategy? Do you walk the hills and run in the flats and downhill?

At the beginning of every season, I’ll choose my  ‘A’ races that I would like to do well in, then build my schedule around those races. Using other races for the majority of my training.

I usually set a plan in my mind based either what I know of the course or previous experience. For example, I always look to see how far apart aid stations are placed and use them as a gauge for how long I think I can run before I will need to stop.

For hills, I will try and run the early hills (if possible), then plan on walking as needed further into the race to preserve energy & muscle endurance.

Downhills always depend on the terrain, they can be deceptively tricky. I will go as fast as possible, but if its technical, or slippery I would rather err on the side of caution, and find other ways to make up time.

  1. How do you train differently for endurance races vs. shorter races?

Most of my training for the past few years has revolved around endurance racing. With longer races, I have worked mostly on maintaining a decent pace for long periods of time.

Whereas, shorter races, require you have to practice more speed work.

The key to both is training your body to recovery very quickly.

  1. What are your pre-race meals, hydration plans, and during the race what do you eat and drink? What are your supplements?

Pre-race meals a few days before are the same things I normally eat; like chicken, with vegetables, eggs and brown rice or sweet potatoes. I may just increase the frequency of meals.

On race mornings, I always eat the same breakfast, 2 packets of plain oatmeal, banana, and coconut water with amino acids.

During races, I use mostly Hammer Nutrition products, specifically the gels, and use Heed or Perpetuem in my soft flasks, and plain water in my bladder in my vest.

At aid stations, what works best for me is generally electrolytes, potatoes, bananas, PB&J, and oranges.

Post-race, I immediately drink Hammer Recoverite, to aid in muscle recovery, and use Tissue Rejuvenator for the weeks following, to aid in maintenance and repair as well.

Compare Kate’s nutrition to Ryan Atkins and Rea Kolbl.

  1. Who is your trainer and who else have you used in the past? Compare and contrast their methods relative to your success.

In the past, I began participating in training and weekly classes with Chad Mason from ABF Mudrun, which quickly became my home for years.  Unfortunately, ABF no longer offers training, but it will always hold a special place in my heart of gratitude. That was the foundation of the skills & core values of extremely hard work that I needed to embrace to start racing in a more competitive manner. I have always been mainly focused on being a hybrid athlete, I didn’t want to be just good at running or obstacles…..I wanted to be able to hold my own in any race, event, or challenge.

I don’t have one trainer right now, I mostly work out in small group training environments using a few different programs. I prefer to take advantage of different styles and perspectives on training to enhance the benefits for myself.

And interestingly enough, I have never had a run coach, so whatever good or bad habits I have developed are all on me. Everything I have learned about running has come from my own experiences and instinct.

  1. What other training plans and trainers do you consult and what are you looking for?

I don’t use any specific training plans, more often I am looking for people/groups to train with, just to go out and have some fun, run in the mountains, or go enjoy the outdoors.

  1. Who or what is your competition and why?

I am always my biggest competitor, I never stop trying to push my own limits. My success and failures lie solely within myself.

  1. You won first at the Vernon Beast last year then disappeared from OCR and went into ultra-running? Why the change?

I called this my involuntary retirement from OCR. In 2017, I fractured my shoulder, tore my labrum, and separated my collarbone. In order to maintain my sanity, I looked for other events during my healing process. Also, at the same time, one of my friends and fellow mountain goats moved on from OCR and began doing more endurance events…. so it was almost perfect timing. We just continued on and found different events to participate in. I have the same amount of passion for endurance racing as I did for OCR, if not more.

  1. Who do you look up to in OCR and running?

I really don’t have one individual, it’s more about the support system of people around me that that I look to for guidance and appreciate. They have truly helped me more than I could ever express, they have given me an immeasurable amount of love, support, and loyalty. We are all fighting our own internal demons or battles, whether in life, work, school, racing, etc…we have all been there…. we have all wanted to quit, but you just have to keep moving forward. The support system you build around you helps you hang in there during the lows, and remind you that the grind will be worth it in the end.

  1. Any chance you’ll go up against Amelia or Faye?

Probably not in OCR, but it would be super fun to see them on an Ultra course. They are amazing athletes, and I have the utmost respect for them and what they have accomplished.

  1. What do you consider your greatest achievement so far and what is the Holy Grail you are after?

In June 2018, I ran the Infinitus 88K in Vermont, I was nervous going into it because I don’t get a lot of opportunities to train for elevation (living in South Jersey is only good for sand! lol), so I was relying mostly on strength training and very fearful I would come up short.

I placed 1st in Female with a time of 11:10 and 2nd Overall, but I wasn’t done yet…..

The very following weekend, I was signed up for the North Face Massachusetts 50 miler. My goal was to complete back-to-back 50-mile races. Per North Face spokesman Dean Karnazes, it is the most challenging course in the series. I ran North Face MA in 2017, and it was a very difficult and technical course, so I knew, this was going to test me mentally and physically. I ended up exceeding my own expectations and placing in the Top 10 female at #8 with a time of 11:26.

I don’t have a particular holy grail. In reality, I would just want to continue on my own racing adventures and experience new things, beautiful places, push limits and achieve what seems impossible at times.

  1. What are your thoughts on the weekenders who just show up without adequate training, perhaps to do a big race just as a bucket list?

I love the weekenders, I think it’s great for people to get out there and enjoy themselves. Not everyone has the same goals, expectations, or the time to dedicate to training as much as they would like.

I encourage everyone to get out there and experience the joys of racing. It’s exceptional to overcome the challenges with friends and loved ones and build those bonds, even if you’re racing by yourself and meeting new people along the way.

  1. How would your plans and preps change as you age? Any difference between male and female?

I really don’t see a difference between male and female, I think it’s all on an individual basis rather than gender.

Nothing has really changed as far as plans or prep on the front end, the biggest change for me is the recovery after races. Years ago, I would return to my normal workout routine the next day, with little or no recovery time.

Currently, I still continue with my workouts the following day after a race, but now I allow more of a grace period before I return to strenuous activity, more specifically strength training.

You learn from your mistakes, and early on this race season, I went right into strength training after a particularly difficult race. Well, my turned out my muscles were too fatigued to lift properly and I ended up causing a minor injury to my lower back, that nagged me and took a while to heal. I considered that a fair warning.

  1. Women’s’ times and performance are pretty much on par with men’s in OCR. What are your thoughts on how the race can or should be modified to make things equal or kept separate?

There is no need to change or modify the current standards. There will always be a disparity between the men and women just based on genetics, and I don’t see anything wrong with it.

  1. What attracted you to ultra-running?

Ultrarunning was a gradual process for me. I began working my way up to longer distances, and more challenging events. From there I felt like I had the potential to accomplish more each time. With an open mind, growing self-confidence, and a few bad ideas from friends, you never know what you will get talked into to.

  1. What is your dream race? What destination races would you like to compete in anywhere in the world and why?

I haven’t decided where I want to go from here in regards to distance. The longest race I have done to date is 62 miles. If I want to continue on, and compete in longer distances, I will need to seek some guidance and advice on training and race strategies. I feel like my current race style right now would need some modification to allow for better time, energy and nutritional management.

In 2019, I would like to venture out west and get the opportunity to experience the beautiful scenery

In 2020, I am hoping to be selected in the lottery for the Georgia Death Race.

  1. Do you train solo, team, partner, other, depends? Why?

I mostly train solo, just based on my own availability and limitations.

Working out and training for me is an important social aspect of my life, I do always look forward to training with my local groups of friends, or getting together with my Ultra friends for some training and debauchery in the mountains.

  1. How many miles and hours per week do you devote to training? How do you taper?  How do you recover after training and after a race?

I train up to 3-4 hours a day 7 days a week. In the morning and after work. I use a wide variety of methods because I think diversity plays a large role in my success, and it keeps me entertained, whether it’s strength training, cardio, running, rucking, spinning, kickboxing, or functional fitness training.

I do long runs once per week, depending on where I am running determines the mileage. If I’m running trails, I could run up to 30 miles, but if I am running roads I max at 16 miles. Not a huge fan of road miles, too much impact on the body.

The week of my races, I begin to taper. My schedule Mon-Weds will normally remain the same, but just modifying workouts with more body weight exercises, and modified lighter weights.

  1. What makes you uncomfortable in training and racing?

I have issues with cold weather racing. I have a rather advanced case of Renault’s Disease in both of my hands. It is a vascular disease that affects the arteries that supply blood to your skin. The blood vessels narrow in cold temperatures, which can be very painful or cause numbness. It can mimic the symptoms of severe frostbite. Once, it sets in, not only is it very painful, I lose the functionality of my hands. For example; I can’t tie my shoes, open a simple gel packet, get a nutrition bar, etc…. it’s a very helpless feeling knowing if I need anything I have to find someone to help me.

  1. How do you defeat the mental demons?

So mental demons are much more powerful than any physical ailment I have ever experienced. The absolute best way to defeat them is to concentrate on the positive things during races. More often than not, people will be consumed with the difficult parts, don’t obsess about it. I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to fixate on the positive; like when you get to the top and catch your breath and feel good again, remind yourself about those moments. When you are struggling, take a sip of water, eat something, regroup…get your life together. It won’t last, it will pass and you will be ok.

Those demons are looking for any way to infiltrate your thoughts and convince you to quit…..don’t give them that opportunity. My favorite pastime is also to talk to the volunteers, runners, photographers, spectators, anyone.

Smile, laugh, talk…these simple tactics help keep your mind off of the negative space.

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