http://mattbdavisruns.com/2012/11/top5/
Thu, 22 Nov 2012 19:47:10 +0000
Top reasons I prefer to run an obstacle race/mud run over a street 5/10k.
- Headphones. Most people at a street race are listening to music and in his or her own world. Attempt to strike up a conversation and you get funny looks. When I leave an obstacle race in another town, I have made several new friends by the end of that event. In my own neighborhood street race, the same does not apply. What music do you even have on your Ipod playlist for a 5k? Your 4 favorite songs on repeat?
- There is nothing to talk about after a street race. Half of the fun of doing a great course is to share proud moments of the things you conquered along the way. Just as rewarding can be to laugh at how horribly you failed a particular obstacle. Street race: Not so much. “Hey, remember when we turned from that street onto another street past that one house?”
- “Hills” The obstacle racer looks at terrain as yet another obstacle. Another challenge to be bettered. The street racer thinks 50 feet of elevation climb is something to whine about.
- Strollers.
- There is no opportunity for camaraderie on the street. When you run an obstacle race, your friends will help you and so will strangers. At almost every turn, there is a chance to help and be helped. You can’t put a price on that. Talk to anyone that has run mud runs and they will tell you that it has made them a better person.
- No mud. Getting dirty has us forget about our 9-5 lives. Running around in the mud allows us to forget that we have bills to pay and people to report to. It gives us the freedom to be brave, adventurous and silly. In short, to be kids again.
Feel free to add yours…
Matt B. Davis
is the host of the Obstacle Racing Media Podcast and the author of "Down and Dirty-The Essential Training Guide for Obstacle Races and Mud Runs". He is also the only (known) #wafflehouseelite obstacle racer.
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