If you’re contemplating to up your game in the next obstacle course race you’re entering, consider agility training. Agility can be defined as the ability to move swiftly and easily in a situation while still maintaining total control. Here we listed the benefits of agility training to further convince you to get on board with it.
1. Fast Recovery
A number of mishaps will happen along the course, and it is up to your ability to automatically recover fast and pick up the run again. For example, in a situation where you might skid on the slanted wall, your automatic response should be to hold onto the rope even tighter or jump onto the ground safely. Your response time will depend on how agile you are.
2. Proper Balance
Having an immaculate ability to balance properly will be an advantage to any obstacle course runner. A lot of obstacles laid out in most races requires a degree of balancing act; and some even test you only on that (read: balancing beam). Agility training can help improve your balance through time.
Photo by ActiveSteve /(CC BY-ND 2.0)3. Changing Direction
We are all aware that obstacle course race, similar to a trail run, will require you to run on an uneven, beaten track. Runners can’t always predict the course, therefore being able to quickly change direction and avoid any hazards is very important.
Photo by Neil Gaudet /(CC BY-NC 2.0)4. Maintains Control
Being agile means you have the ability to control your movements all the time, or most of the time. This is crucial especially when fatigue is catching up, and your stamina is running low. Moving swiftly through obstacles and the course might not only save your precious energy but also saves time.
Photo by Alex de Haas /(CC BY-NC 2.0)5. Minimizes Injury
Yes, it can get tough and quite a number of runners will walk out from the race with injuries. If you ever fall from obstacles or slipped on muddy terrain, being agile is what might save you from injury such as pulled muscles. This is because when your body is so used to be moving so swiftly, the percentage of pulled muscles and other injuries happening becomes slightly lowered.
Convinced yet to start your agility training?