Mud Runs

What happens when you combine a sports running event with a little bit of military boot camp? You get yourself a mud run!

by Bobbie Grennier
Like extreme sports? Looking for a new sports event in your community? Why not organize one?

What happens when you combine a sports running event with a little bit of military boot camp? You get yourself a mud run! Mud runs are to running events what off-road biking is to cycling. Mud runs are the new craze for thrill seeking runners looking for that extra challenge.

In mud runs, athletes push themselves to not only meet the endurance needed to run the distance, but they must be able to conquer hurdles, walls, man-made swamps that require the participants to get down their bellies and crawl through obstacles. A visual crowd pleaser, all participants are guaranteed they’re going to get really dirty.

Mud runs can get a little dangerous too, with all the slip and slide action. So, if you’re going to host this type of event make sure your insurance premiums are paid up and that your participants sign a waiver.Most mud runs include running on back-woods trails, running up and down hills, getting through water obstacles, perhaps crawling through a tunnel or two, having to scale at least one tall wall, a good size mud pit and an official t-shirt to mark the day.

Many mud runs will allow you participate as an individual or as a team. If you choose to go it as a team, you’ll be required to make sure every member of your team cross the finish line together. It’s a great event for doing a team building experience. This event is perfect for athletes who want to break the traditional molds and try a little taste of extreme sports. Nothing says extreme like a giant mud pit filled with barriers that have to be conquered.