Training for a Tough Mudder

At the end of this month I'm tackling my very first Obstacle Course Race at the Tough Mudder Half South London - to say I'm a bit nervous would be an understatement! Fortunately, thanks to For Goodness Shakes I have three other lovely ladies on my team to offer both moral and physical support around the course. A couple of our partners, including James, will also be joining us, so hopefully I can give most of the obstacles a good go, even if I ultimately end up in the mud!

Training for a Tough Mudder

After RideLondon 100 I've switched back to running and have tried to get to the gym and fit in some strength training, but I've not really done as much as I would have liked. Most people who have done OCRs before have told me that working on my grip (for those monkey bars) and doing lots of upper body exercises (for hauling myself up walls) is the key to success. That and trying to relax and have fun!

My new gym, Everyone Active Westcroft Leisure Centre, has a Circuits class in the evenings which I've been to a couple of times.  It's a tough session, which is great for HIIT training as well as including exercises such as planks, press-ups, and burpees. They also tend to mix it up so no two classes are the same, which is good for variety and stops me getting bored or my muscles getting used to the routine.

This weekend I also finally got around to putting my TRX up on my terrace outside my flat - I don't have a lot of space but I'm hoping that I can use it to work on my upper body fitness in particular. The TRX is so versatile! As well as building strength you can also use it for core workouts and stretching, I just need to figure out what I'm doing - I've created a board on Pinterest with some suggested exercises and routines, so hopefully by the time Tough Mudder rolls around in 3 weeks (23rd September) I'll be feeling a little more confident.

Working towards a new goal is always more fun with new workout gear, and I'm loving this gym kit from MandM Direct. I've never shopped there before but was really impressed by the range available and the value for money. This whole outfit cost less than £50, including the fab lightweight Puma running jacket! The shorts are super comfortable (no chafing) and I love the colours, and I've also got a bright pink sports bra on under the black mesh vest top, although you can't see in these photos. It's been one of my favourite outfits for Circuits as it keeps me cool, and I can slip on the jacket when I cycle home so I don't get cold afterwards. The shorts aren't too short either!

Have you ever done an Obstacle Course Race before? Have you bought any new activewear recently?  

Beki x

NB: I was sent the clothing from MandM Direct to review, but as always all opinions are my own. I have also been provided with a complimentary entry to Tough Mudder in exchange for my blog posts.