The big event is just a few days away! A small group of my friends and fellow recruits from Original Boot Camp are doing the Tough Mudder in Sydney.
Questions questions…
It’s time to think about some things, such as “What to eat on race day?”. But first you need to ask “What do I eat THE NIGHT BEFORE?” Here is what Brad Kahlefeldt (Olympian gold medal triathlete) eats;
Night before:
* Spag bol (350g spag with 150g bol sauce)
* 350g chicken with handful cooked brocoli, carrots and corn
Basically, carb and protein rich foods.
On race day:
* Coffee, 2 Up & Go drinks, 2 bananas
* 1 hour later; Sports drink and 1 – 2 litres of water
* 1 hour later; Small bowel of muesli, 2 slices wholegrain toast with vegemite, honey or marmalade.
* 3 hours later; It’s bizness time!
The above information was taken from the August 2012 issue of Australian Men’s Health Magazine.
I’d suggest a breakfast of eggs, avocado, spinach, whole grain toast and coffee before hitting the road. It will take approx 2 hours to arrive at the event and get registered. Then UP & Go or sports drink with a banana an hour before race time, then use the GU Gels with water throughout the race. Just don’t have anything too heavy just before the race, or anything you don’t normally eat.
The Sarge at boot camp suggests avoiding milky breakfasts as this may curdle in your stomach and not feel very nice.
Next question; what to WEAR?
Feet: I expect such a mud run to not only be physically and mentally challenging, but may potentially destroy or damage your clothing. Don’t wear your new and expensive joggers to this event. They will not come back in the same condition and sometimes the suction of the mud will cause you to actually lose your shoes.
I’m going to wear my pair of Colorado hiking shoes because they have good grip, and have been tried and tested in trail running in New Zealand, indoor rock climbing, The Stampede and Warrior Dash. I just throw them in the washing machine when I am done. Remember to wear socks to prevent chaffing and blisters, though thick socks may be too heavy so try a light cotton sock. Many people are fond of the Vibram FiveFingers shoes for the barefoot running style. Perfectly fine, however do not run a race if you have not trained in this style of running before.
Clothing: Cotton will be comfortable, but may be heavier when water logged than a light knit sports shirt. Compression wear is fine too, as some people will also appreciate the extra knee and elbow protection, to help avoid scrapes and grazes. Some clothing can come out the other side and wash clean, but it’s still a good idea to wear clothing that won’t matter if they get destroyed. I’m choosing some light weight sports clothing – Guy Leech Fitness shirt and shorts – these are a thin and light weight knit that will breath and hopefully allow for cooling and easy drying.
If you wear a big baggy shirt then you may find it heavier due to increased water holding capacity and could get caught on the obstacles. So hommies, go a few sizes smaller 😉
Other things: This is a 3 – 4 hour even so consider:
- Water resistant sunscreen
- Wear a hat if you like
- Eye wear – I have some padded goggle style sun glasses that won’t fall off and will also help prevent splatters of mud from getting in my eyes.
- Some people will carry CamelPak hydration packs. Myself, I will carry a Caribee bum bag (fanny pack to the Americans) with a 600ml water bottle and my GU Gels.
- Gloves are optional but may protect your hands from rope burns and splinters.
The Misc Tips Stuff
The Sydney Tough Mudder is located in the beautiful Glenworth Valley. Once you hit the access road your mobile reception will go down to zero, so you will not be able to rely on your phone to contact your team mates. The Glenworth Valley reception building has free wifi for if you really want to send someone a Facebook message, but may be a distance from the event. Luckily the Tough Mudder has a meeting point flag at reception. Find your lost buddies there.