The Toughest Challenge Courses in the World

Adrenaline junkies always find a way to push themselves to the absolute limit, which is why there are over 15,000 challenge courses operating in the United States alone. With such a large number, there’s definitely something out there for just about everyone. But in this article, we’re focussing on the toughest of them all, and who knows, it just might be what you’ve been looking for all along.\r \r 1. Antarctic Ice Marathon\r \r This one is definitely not for the faint of heart. We’re talking about completing a 100 kilometer race across the South Pole, in -20 degrees Celsius, set at an elevation of 3,000 feet. The race itself is split into four parts, each covering a distance of 25 kilometers which the participants must do four times. The only downside is the registration fee, which is a whopping $17,900. Seems like a lot but it takes care of your flight to Antarctica. The money also covers food and accommodations including unlimited hot drinks and three meals every day.\r \r 2. Badwater 135\r \r The Badwater Ultramarathon is the complete opposite of the Antarctic Ice Marathon. Whereas the latter takes place in subzero temperatures at extremely high elevations, the Badwater 135 is held in California’s Death Valley, located 282 feet below sea level. The race progresses across 217 kilometers to Mount Whitney which stands at 8,360 feet above sea level. And all of this takes place in mid-July, so you just know that the temperatures are insane, putting the runners at risk of dehydration. Some shoes even melt along the way due to the roads getting crazy hot.\r \r 3. Jungle Ultra Footrace\r \r So far we’ve covered the South Pole and the devilish Death Valley. Now this challenge course takes you to the Manu National Park in the Amazon jungle where you’re met with a wide range of wild animals. Participants must traverse through mud and humidity, and up to 70 rivers and streams, even on ziplines. In all, the race takes up to a week to complete and the registration fee is set at $3,200 US. But unlike the Antarctic Ice Marathon, you’re tasked with paying for your own flight and supplies, including food, water and shelter. \r \r 4. Run for Your Lives\r \r Ever wondered what it must be like to be chased around during a zombie apocalypse? Well, the Run for Your Lives challenge course explores this very concept! To begin, one must choose whether they want to be a zombie or survivor. Then they’re off, running for 5,000 kilometers and navigating all sorts of obstacles including smoke-filled buildings and a blood pit, which is just red-colored water. As a zombie, you’ll get prepped for the role by slapping some of that much needed makeup all over your body.\r \r 5. Savage Race\r \r The Savage Race is one that truly lives up to its name. The event is carried out in 17 different locations around the US, offering a wide range of obstacles that pushes you to the very limit. Let’s see, there’s the Shriveled Richard obstacle that involves submerging yourself in a swimming pool filled with 60,000 pounds of ice. And the Teeter Tuber absolutely needs to be mentioned; once there, you must climb up inside a 24-inch diameter tube until you hit a pivot point and then get dumped out the other end. It’s so tough, that only 50% of competitors are said to complete the courses—maybe the savage rig filled with rings, monkey bars and much more got to them!