Tough Mudder Obstacles

Clifford J Davis is a philanthropist, a state-certified contractor, and a self-employed real estate developer who recently helped build a 20,000-square-foot custom home in Tampa, FL. Cliff Davis enjoys athletic competitions and has competed in ironman and Tough Mudder contests.

A 10- to 12-mile mud race and obstacle course, Tough Mudder is designed to be a challenge that emphasizes cooperation and fellowship. The race is held at locations throughout the United States, including central Florida, an approximate two-hour drive from Tampa, FL.

After completing the course, participants receive a cold beer and take part in social events. The competition is always adding new obstacles, with a few noted below.

- Block Ness Monster – 60 feet of slick barrels through which competitors must push and roll.

- King of the Swingers – a rope swing that can be reached only by jumping from a 12-foot platform.

- Backstabber – a 12-foot peg wall that competitors must scale.

- Cage Crawl – 60 feet of fence with only a few inches of air above a watery trench. Participants must lie on their backs and pull on the fence to drag themselves to the finish.

Increasing Safety for High School Football Players

Football is a full-contact sport, and injury is often part of the risk. With the increased knowledge of concussion rates, many high school football associations are implementing rules to keep players safe. A number of states already have regulations in place regarding this issue.

One of the methods for reducing head impact is to limit full-contact practices. Several schools have restricted full-contact practices to twice per week. Most coaches feel they can have productive practice sessions without full contact. There is no guarantee that this method will reduce concussions, but logic says fewer head impacts will result in fewer concussions. Linemen are most vulnerable to head impact, so they receive the most protection frp, these practice restrictions.

Of course, safety gear is crucial in football. It is important, especially for young people, to have proper equipment. While injury is a real risk for players of any full-contact sport, there are ways to help avoid getting hurt. School districts understand their responsibility to protect players. New restrictions are being implemented, not to intentionally inconvenience coaches or players, but rather to increase safety for the players.

The Value of Youth Organized Sports

As a father of four children and a sports enthusiast, Cliff Davis understands the value of youth organized sports. There has been much debate about this subject because of overbearing parents and coaches who force children into activities. However, this is not the norm. Most parents, coaches, and children enjoy a healthy relationship with organized sports. Kids receive numerous benefits from involvement in these activities. Here are some of the primary benefits that children can expect to gain from participating in organized sports.

1. Fitness - Kids today have become sedentary with so many screens and indoor activities. Sports provide a great way for children to get needed exercise. This helps to avoid obesity, which leads to diabetes and heart disease. Physical fitness is crucial for children, much like it is for adults.
2. Mental health - Studies show that organized sports help children relieve anxiety and depression. It improves self-esteem and teaches leadership and coping skills.
3. Cooperation - Team sports teach children the value of teamwork. They learn how to interact with others to achieve a common goal. This also fosters a sense of belonging.
4. Academic success - Studies show that kids who are involved in sports are less likely to drop out of school or get in trouble. Basically, it keeps them busy and creates a desire for success. Most sports teams require that children maintain an acceptable grade-point average in order to participate.
5. Socialization - Sports give children the opportunity to socialize in a positive environment with other kids. Often times these relationships are deep and long-lasting because the kids have worked together as a team to achieve goals. Kids do not get as many opportunities these days to socialize during school hours. And when they do, it is sometimes negative interactions. Sporting activities provide positive social interactions.

We must not lose sight of the many benefits provided by youth organized sports. Of course, one must balance sports with other life activities. Anything can become unhealthy if it is not taken in moderation. It is also helpful to allow children to voice their opinion and determine which sports they want to play and when they want to stop.

Traversing Tough Mudder’s Most Challenging Obstacles

Tampa, FL, developer Cliff Davis has spearheaded numerous construction projects, including assisted living facilities and shopping centers. In addition to his Tampa, FL, building activities, Cliff Davis is passionate about fitness and regularly competes in triathlons and endurance events such as the 10-12 mile Tough Mudder race.

Considered one of the world’s most challenging obstacle races, the Tough Mudder incorporates more than two dozen military-style obstacles within extremely muddy terrain. These include the Twinkle Toes, a slippery log bridge that is often strategically placed after an obstacle designed to deplete energy and traverses cold water The key to this obstacle is maintaining steadiness and balance, with yoga-style diaphragm breathing recommended.

One of the unique aspects of the Tough Mudder is that it requires teamwork and the 12-foot wooden Berlin Walls are nearly impossible to scale without a boost from a teammate. The key to getting through this obstacle its to push a couple of teammates to the top, who can then pull the rest up. Other classic obstacles in the Tough Mudder include the Electric Eel and the Boa Constrictor.