Your first obstacle race
How to plan your first obstacle race, from choosing an event through registration to what happens on race day.
Your first obstacle race brings excitement along with plenty of questions: which event to choose, how to register, and what actually happens on race day. This page walks you through the planning step by step, so you can arrive at the start line relaxed.
Finding the right event
For your first race, a fun run without timing or a short competitive distance with 15 to 20 obstacles works best. Consider three things: the distance to the venue, the date relative to your available preparation time, and whether a beginner-friendly distance is offered. Many series run several distances on the same day, so you can switch to a shorter course if needed.
An overview of upcoming dates by country and series is available on our races overview, with background on individual organisers on series overview.
Registration
Registration for almost all organisers happens online through their own website. You choose your distance, starting wave, and usually extras such as a race pack, finisher shirt or photo package. Important: check the organiser’s transfer and cancellation policy before confirming, as this varies between series. Registering early usually pays off twice over, since popular waves and lower price tiers sell out first.
What is a wave?
A wave is a starting time slot in which a limited group of runners sets off together. This keeps the course from becoming congested at the same obstacles all at once. At registration or shortly before the event, you usually pick a preferred time, and some waves are reserved for more competitive or more relaxed runners. On race day, check your exact start time so you reach the corral in good time.
Travel and arrival
Allow more time for travel than you might expect: parking at larger events is often some distance away, and the walk from the car park to the start and changing area can run several hundred metres. Key points for travel:
- Race documents. Bring your confirmation email and ID, some organisers require a printed bib number or a QR code on your phone.
- Bags. Pack a change of clothes for after the race, many events offer a bag drop.
- Travel time. Build in a buffer for parking and the walk in at larger events.
- Weather. Adjust your clothing to conditions, more detail is available in our gear section.
Race day, step by step
- Arrive and check in. Collect your bib number if it was not sent in advance.
- Change and drop your bag. Leave valuables in the car where possible, or use the bag drop.
- Warm up. A short running and mobility routine helps you approach the first obstacles ready, not cold.
- Get to the start area. Be at the corral in good time before your wave, calls are usually made over the PA system.
- Start and course. Find your own pace, and take a moment to plan your technique at each obstacle rather than rushing in.
- Finish and after. Collect your finisher medal and any refreshments, and leave time to stretch and change.
Checklist for your first race
- Registration confirmation and ID
- Performance clothing suited to the weather and season
- Trail shoes with good grip
- Gloves, if rope and grip obstacles are expected
- Spare clothes and a towel for afterwards
- Water and a light snack for before and after the race
- A plastic bag for wet or muddy clothes
- If needed, petroleum jelly or sports tape against chafing
Preparing well for the start
A few weeks of running training combined with some technique practice at obstacles such as climbing or carries make your first race considerably more enjoyable. Our training section offers matching plans and individual exercises.
Once you have picked your event, secure your spot on our races overview and set up a free account to save your race and write your first race report afterwards.
After the finish line
Once you have crossed the finish line for the first time, it is worth pausing briefly: how did the chosen distance compare with your preparation, which obstacles felt easy, which felt hard. These impressions help you choose your next event and train more specifically until then. Many runners write their experience up as a report, others prefer to swap notes directly with other participants. Both are possible in our community section once you have set up an account.
If you want to build on your first success straight away, our races overview lists the next suitable race, or you can read up on more demanding formats on what is obstacle course racing.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose my first event?
A fun run or a short competitive distance with 15 to 20 obstacles is a good starting point. Consider the distance to the venue and make sure you have enough preparation time before race day.
When should I register?
The earlier the better, both for price and choice of wave time. Popular events sell out weeks in advance, so early registration pays off.
What is a wave in obstacle racing?
A wave is a starting time slot in which a group of runners begins together. This prevents congestion at the obstacles, and you usually choose your wave at registration or shortly before the event.
What should I wear for an obstacle race?
Well-fitting, quick-drying performance clothing, trail shoes with good grip and, depending on the season, gloves all work well. More detail is available in our gear section.