MARCH 2017
At Fit for Anything we are passionate about improving your fitness no matter what your starting point. From complete beginners to those of you who are experienced in endurance events, marathons, triathlons and obstacle courses. It is not just about the physical training but mind set and nutrition too – they will all play a part in getting you over that finish line. Whatever you are training for and whatever your goal – the first step is to have one!
You won’t have failed to notice the ever-growing number of obstacle courses in the event timetable. I am a huge fan of the all over conditioning, strength and athleticism that is required as part of the training plans. I am really excited to have qualified for the 45-49 age group for the ocr EC (obstacle course race European Championships). I will keep you posted!
What is the Nuts challenge?
It’s an army style assault course which has about 75 obstacles around a 7km lap. Always up for a challenge, the team from Fit For Anything signed up for 2 laps.
Why did you do it?
Last year I participated in Toughest which is also an obstacle course event and I really enjoyed it. I wanted to take on new challenges and also to introduce other people to the experience too.
How fit do you need to be?
I have worked with Roel twice a week for the last 7 years and I am currently quite fit. Following his training programme, input and guidance has really helped keep me in decent shape.
What was your highlight of the event?
The test on me physically and mentally and getting stuck into a challenging, muddy, slippery, wet and very cold environment. I really enjoyed all of the obstacles and absolutely loved the water obstacles (even though it was freezing!), such as a massive slide and rubber floats.
What was the toughest part?
Finishing the last bit of the 2nd lap was really gruelling as by then my body was pretty exhausted. The last water obstacle made me so cold I could hardly move.
How did you feel after you finished?
Physically I was near total depletion and had absolutely nothing left in my legs or body. I was very cold. I definitely needed Roel's assistance for about 10 minutes to kick start recovery and reduce cramping.
Would you recommend the event and would you do it again?
I recommend this experience for people who are relatively fit as it isn't a stroll in the park. Out of the team only me and Roel finished the 2 laps, the others stopped after 1 lap. It was a great feeling and massive sense of achievement.
Not letting the cold or mud stand in his way!
Following on from the Nuts Challenge, in April Imran and I will be taking part in the first stage of the Intrepid series – this will be a huge test! The Intrepid Series is the toughest event series in the UK, designed by ex-SAS soldiers and ex- Royal Marine Commandos.
We will be pushed to our mental and physical limits. We will definitely have to confront our fears, the urge to give up, mud, sweat and tears. We will let you know how we get on!
Also a big well done to everyone that took part in the Reading Half-Marathon too! The winds were adding around 3 minutes to times so congratulations for battling through! More to come on marathon training in next month’s newsletter.
Upcoming events
Intrepid series 2/4
London Marathon 23/4
Tough Mudder 29/4
Rat Race Dirty Weekend 6/5
Toughest Mudder 13/5
Good luck to everyone in their upcoming events!
Roel