Seven Adventures for Weekend Daredevils

No matter how much you love your work, sitting at your desk too long can kill you. Next weekend, risk your life to have some fun.

1/ Test your endurance
Three major players have emerged in extreme obstacle races: Warrior Dash (600,000 participants), Tough Mudder (460,000), and Spartan Race (350,000). Depending on the event, you’ll shimmy through mud to dodge barbed wire, leap through fire, or submerge yourself in an ice bath, all over a carefully plotted course spanning anywhere from 3 to 12 miles. Each race has its own personality: Tough Mudder’s long course and extreme obstacles attract those seeking a mental challenge; Spartan Race offers tiered distances, strong camaraderie, and a Kid’s Race; and Warrior Dash’s manageable obstacles and relatively easygoing vibe make it great for groups of friends at varying fitness levels. Spartan Race is rolling out a series of subway-accessible events at iconic baseball parks such as Boston’s Fenway Park and Citi Field in New York. They’re held on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year across the U.S. warriordash.com (from $65); toughmudder.com (from $95); spartanrace.com (from $60).
TIP: Each company provides a detailed workout plan online. On the big day, wear broken-in running shoes with the laces duct-taped and lightweight clothing that dries quickly.