Train like an expert for Spartan 2018!

Have you been flexing your muscles in preparation for this year’s Spartan Race? Taking place on the 15^th and 16^th of September, this is the ultimate race challenge. Says Spartan,

“Spartan is more than a race; it’s a way of life. We believe that you can’t have a strong body without a strong mind, that you can’t grow without pressure, that obstacles help shift our frame of reference and make us more resilient.”

Perhaps you read our last article on what to expect as the Spartan Race comes to Perth (and if you haven’t – what are you waiting for?!) If you did check out Gary’s aforementioned article, perhaps you’ll remember that we said to look out for some training tips by an expert making an appearance in our site in the next couple of months. Well that time is now – we are more than delighted to be sharing with you our exclusive debrief with Coach Joe before the race.

He offered us some pertinent tips on how to best train up in these last few days, and make the most of our time while we prepare.

Hi Coach Joe here, and today we’re going to be talking about the Perth Spartan weekend. I’ve been lucky enough to take part in some great Scottish Spartan races over the years and I can testify they pack a punch with their challenging terrain and weather conditions. So here are a few hints to get you through whichever distance you are doing at the Perth weekend.

1. The simple fact about Scotland is that it has the most challenging hills in the United Kingdom. Whichever distance you’ve picked to take part in, you will come across a very tough ascent at some point. Make sure in your training that you basically live, breathe, and eat inclines for breakfast. Find the toughest hill in your area and get used to running up and down it. Add carrying a heavy object for some essential overload as your fitness improves.
   
   
2. Perth is one of the mildest Scottish cities there is on the East Coast but don’t let that fool you in regards to the temperature. Especially when water is involved. Average temperatures fall as low as 8 degrees at night, which lead to some chilly bodies of water out on the course. Your body is going to need to be able to handle being wet and cold. Start swapping your warm showers for progressively colder ones and go out for your training runs wearing cold wet clothes. Pack appropriate clothes for the race and be ready for anything from sunshine to sideways rain.
   
   
3. Finally…with a mix of rugged terrain and weather, expect to take a little longer to finish your race than usual. Make sure you take on adequate hydration and nutrition before and during the event. And if you use gels, make sure not to drop your wrappers on the course.

Are you planning on taking part in this year’s race? What have you done to prepare? Will you be taking these tips on board? Find out more information on their website here.