by The Spartan Race Vertical Cargo obstacle is a platform located roughly 5+ft off of the ground for men (separate platform for women) with a vertical cargo climb on top. The hard part is not the cargo net, it’s getting up the platform. There is no wall under the platform or grips on top to grab. This forces you to use only your upper body to get yourself up. Once on top you will then climb up,over, and down a small cargo net. This obstacle can be surprisingly difficult especially in weather conditions.
Platform Height (best guess): 5ft for Men, 4ft for Women
Training Focus: Upper Body Strength, Arms and Shoulders
Exercises: Pull Ups, Bar/Ring Dips, Straight Single Bar Dips
Vertical Cargo Obstacle Tips
For Pro and Age Group: Jump up and get your arms onto the first platform holding you off the ground. From here, roll onto your elbows raising your body heigher then swing one leg onto the platform and roll.
For Open Heats: Follow the above directions or ask for help. Using a fellow racers support to help you onto the first platform.
Build Upper Body Strength: Vertical Cargo requires you to pull your body weight up a rope or cargo net. Incorporate exercises like pull-ups, rope climbs, and hanging leg raises into your training routine to build upper body strength.
Grip Strength: Your grip strength is crucial for holding onto the ropes or cargo net. Practice grip strength exercises such as farmer’s walks, dead hangs, and using a grip strength trainer.
Use Your Legs: Don’t rely solely on your upper body to climb. Use your legs to push yourself up while your arms maintain your grip. Use a scissor technique, where one foot is on one side of the rope/net, and the other on the opposite side, to help you ascend.
Maintain Proper Form: Keep your body close to the rope/net as you climb. This minimizes the risk of swinging and losing your grip. Use short, controlled movements rather than big, inefficient ones.
Practice Climbing Techniques: Spend time practicing climbing techniques at a local gym or on similar obstacles if possible. The more comfortable you are with the movement, the more efficient you’ll be during the race.
Stay Calm: It’s easy to get flustered when you’re struggling to climb, but it’s important to stay calm. Take deep breaths, and focus on one movement at a time.
Wear Proper Footwear: Make sure your shoes have good traction to prevent slipping on the ropes or cargo net. Trail running shoes or specialized OCR shoes are excellent choices.
Use Gloves: Wearing lightweight gloves can protect your hands from rope burns and help with grip. Ensure they fit well and don’t hinder your dexterity.
Plan Your Approach: Observe how others tackle the obstacle before your turn, and strategize your approach accordingly.
FAQs
What is the Vertical Cargo obstacle in a Spartan Race?
The Vertical Cargo is an obstacle that typically involves climbing a cargo net, which is suspended vertically between two support structures. Participants are required to climb up and over the net.
How do I approach the Vertical Cargo obstacle?
To tackle the Vertical Cargo obstacle, start by assessing the net for any damaged areas. Grab the net with both hands and use your legs to push yourself up. It’s a good idea to use your legs more than your upper body to conserve energy. Keep a firm grip and maintain balance as you climb to the top.
What tips can help me complete the Vertical Cargo obstacle successfully?
Here are some tips:
- Use your legs to push and create upward momentum.
- Maintain a steady pace to conserve energy.
- Keep a tight grip on the net and use your arms for support.
- Look for sturdy footholds on the net.
- Be aware of other racers, as the net can sway with their movements.
What should I do if I’m afraid of heights or have a fear of climbing obstacles?
If you have a fear of heights or climbing obstacles, it’s essential to practice and build your confidence gradually. Start with smaller climbing challenges, and work your way up to more complex obstacles. Spartan Race training programs often include techniques for overcoming these fears.
Are there any height or weight restrictions for the Vertical Cargo obstacle?
Spartan Races generally don’t have specific height or weight restrictions for the Vertical Cargo obstacle. However, it’s essential to follow the safety guidelines provided by race organizers and make sure you are physically capable of completing the obstacle.
What if I can’t complete the Vertical Cargo obstacle?
If you can’t complete the obstacle, you can choose to do penalty burpees as specified by the race rules. The number of burpees can vary, but it’s typically 30 for an obstacle failure. Alternatively, you can seek assistance from fellow racers or race volunteers.
What are some alternative exercises to prepare for the Vertical Cargo obstacle?
To prepare for the Vertical Cargo, focus on exercises that improve your upper body strength, grip strength, and agility. Pull-ups, rope climbing, and wall climbs are great exercises to build the required strength and skills.
Race Series:
Sprint
Super
Beast
Ultra
Stadion
Gallery:
Conclusion
The Spartan Race Vertical Cargo obstacle presents a unique challenge, primarily involving a challenging ascent to a high platform before navigating a cargo net. The absence of handholds on the platform demands substantial upper body strength and strategic techniques. This obstacle can prove surprisingly tough, particularly in adverse weather conditions. To conquer it successfully, racers should focus on building upper body and grip strength, use their legs for support, maintain proper form, and practice climbing techniques. Staying calm and planning their approach is key, along with wearing suitable footwear and gloves. For those who fear heights or climbing, gradual practice is advised. In the event of failure, racers can opt for penalty burpees or seek assistance. As part of the broader Spartan Race series, this obstacle can be encountered in Sprint, Super, Beast, Ultra, and Stadion races.
