On Sunday 7th September 2014 I took part in the Cambridge Spartan race along with several of my Lovefit clients and bootcampers. What an absolute blast!

In stark contrast to my quad write-up, you’ll be pleased to know that this account is a) far shorter and b) far more positive!

This photo, taken just metres from the finish line, pretty much sums up the race:

Flying towards the finish!

Flying towards the finish!

For those not familiar with Spartan Races, they’re essentially muddy obstacle courses much like Tough Mudder. The Cambridge event is always their “sprint” distance, which entails a 5km trail interspersed with around 15 obstacles. We did battle with cargo nets, monkey bars, chest deep mud pits, and more than one swim in the lake.

I can honestly say that it wasn’t hard, just heaps of fun. I really would recommend it to anyone who fancies something a little different. You don’t need to be a runner (I reckon the biggest distance between any of the obstacles was around 700-800m), you don’t need to mega fit (you can just take your time – and often have to queue anyway – and everyone is really supportive and will help you tackle each phase), and it really doesn’t matter if you can’t complete an obstacle. Technically the penalty for a failed obstacle is 30 burpees, but nobody really counts (ssssshh!) and so long as you’ve had a fair crack of the whip they don’t mind. The whole spirit of the race was focussed on fun and camaraderie.

We certainly had plenty of chuckles, especially when Lovefit coach Victoria had a panic in the water, accused the safety kayakers of trying to kill her and then attached herself to my husband’s back in order to be transported safely across the lake!

If I haven’t convinced you with my encounter then check out the little montage below.  Surely our faces show how much fun we were having…

Beautiful faces of Lovefit!

Beautiful faces of Lovefit!

Ok, perhaps not our best look (and yes, I did get permission from these ladies to use these hilarious photos).  But seriously, you need to get involved next year.  There is something hugely liberating about getting that muddy.  Obviously it helped that we got a stunning warm and sunny September day, but whatever the weather, we’ll be back with a team next year.  Can’t wait.

AROO!

For more information about Spartan Race check out their website.