What is The Kinetic Chronicle?

The Kinetic Chronicle offers 14 pages for finding, saving, submitting, and planning endurance races across running, cycling, triathlon, and multisport events.

The Kinetic Chronicle

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Obstacle Racing

Mud, walls and heavy carries. Filter, sort and register.

Discipline Guide

Obstacle racing (OCR) mixes running with military-style obstacles — walls, heavy carries, rope climbs, mud crawls and rig traversals — across sprint, super and endurance formats. The Kinetic Chronicle lists the full field, including 3-5 mile sprint obstacle races, 8-13 mile super events, 12+ hour endurance OCRs and championship series. Typical distances span 3K-5K sprint courses with 15-25 obstacles, 13-16 km super courses with 25-35 obstacles, and timed endurance formats where athletes complete as many laps as possible. The directory includes major OCR series (Spartan, Tough Mudder-style events), championship races, hybrid OCR-trail events and beginner-friendly mud runs. Filter by state, date or distance to find your next obstacle race and register directly with the organizer.

What is the difference between a sprint and a super OCR?

A sprint obstacle race is typically 3-5 miles (5-8K) with 15-25 obstacles, built for all fitness levels. A super is 8-13 miles (13-21K) with 25-35 obstacles and more technical terrain. Endurance OCR formats run for a fixed time (often 3, 6 or 12 hours) where athletes complete as many laps as possible.

Do I have to complete every obstacle?

In competitive OCR, failing an obstacle usually means a penalty (typically 30 burpees) before you can continue. In many non-competitive waves, obstacles are optional or assisted, and volunteers help you over walls and through rigs. Check the race's rules to know which obstacles are mandatory.

What should I wear for an obstacle race?

Wear tight-fitting, quick-drying clothing you do not mind ruining, with grippy trail shoes for mud and slick surfaces. Gloves can help on rigs but hinder rope climbs. Many racers use a hydration vest and bring a change of clothes — you will get muddy and wet on most courses.