Sophie, Support Coach Lead at Kids Matter, gets real about training for Tough Mudder – and what makes it all worth the effort.
I’ve recently signed up for my first ever Tough Mudder to raise money for Kids Matter. At my current level of strength and fitness, I know it’s going to be a real challenge but thankfully, I’ve been preparing.
Motherhood (times two!) has definitely taken a toll on my once-sporty self. Alongside the joy, my little ones have brought a few physical setbacks – injuries, weaknesses and, of course, the constant demand on my energy and time.
Training hasn’t been easy. I’ve started by assessing the task ahead, looking honestly at where I am starting from and the amount of time I could realistically commit. And a key piece: who is going to help keep me on track?
In particular, I hoped for support to train wisely – in a way that would push me forward without risking further injury. Someone who would ask me these two things: 1. Are you expecting too much, too soon? 2. How many full push-ups can you do? (Current answer: zero…)
But my nose is getting closer to the floor each day(!), I will get there and importantly back up again! And I have the KM team training alongside me sharing tips and encouragements along the way.
So even with zero push-ups and a long way to go, I’m in. This is about more than finishing a race, it’s about showing up for a cause I believe in, pushing past my limits, and hopefully inspiring others to do the same. So here’s to steady progress, sore muscles, and the power of community… because every step I take is for the families Kids Matter comes alongside.
Tough Mudder takes place on Saturday 5 July, so please do support the team as they take on this challenge and seek to impact the lives of children across the UK. Donate here.