#103: Spartan Steve Gets You Ready for Obstacle Course Races

After running 60+ Spartan and obstacle course races over the last decade, our guest this week on the podcast gives you some advice on getting through obstacles in races and beyond! After a quick look back at my one and only Spartan race, (5:35) Steve Slater talks about how a Tough Mudder launched his obstacles course racing, which he calls a great equalizer. (12:35) He has specific advice for training to get a stronger grip and core. Steve breaks down what his typical weeks of training are like, from gym work to running with sand bags to burpees. (20:01) As the Bible says, suffering produces perseverance which produces character. That's Steve's running mantra, which he got from a church sermon. The racing also helped him teach a lesson to his 2 sons about mentally pushing. What's his longest time spent on an obstacle course race? And he's done some with 30+ miles of running or 100+ obstacles! (26:17) Why does he keep putting his body through the grueling competitions? His favorite part is making it a family affair. (35:48) At almost 55 years old now, how does he stay mostly injury free? Steve gives us some keys that have to do with rest and what you eat. He's still highly competitive, no matter the age. (41:01) He picks his favorite and least favorite obstacles on a course. And Steve says get in the arena, because it's easy to be brave from a safe distance! Down the road, he's got a goal at the Grand Canyon. (51:25) I close this episode with some final segments: obstacle wisdom from the Bible, me singing the appropriate "Warriors," and a closing prayer. Thanks for listening! And tell your friends about the #RunTheRace podcast. Subscribe to it! For more info, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.