Obstacle Warriors are a specific obstacle course racing format, not a gym membership or training program you sign up for

Obstacle Warriors is a competitive obstacle course racing series that runs events in multiple locations throughout the year. Unlike a Ninja Warrior gym membership, which gives you access to equipment and training space, Obstacle Warriors events are races you enter as a competitor. You pay an entry fee, show up on race day, and complete a course designed to test strength, agility, and endurance against obstacles similar to those on television Ninja Warrior shows.

The events are organized by a company that sets the course design, timing, and rules. Races typically happen on weekends and range from shorter courses (good for beginners or younger competitors) to longer, more difficult versions. Some events are timed races where your goal is to finish as fast as possible; others are pass-or-fail formats where you either complete each obstacle or you don't.

If you train at a Ninja Warrior gym, Obstacle Warriors events give you a chance to test your skills in a real competition setting. The obstacles you've practiced on training walls and rigs show up in different configurations on race day, so your gym training directly prepares you for what you'll face.

Key Takeaways

  • Obstacle Warriors events are races you enter and compete in, not a training facility or membership program.
  • Entry fees vary by location and course difficulty, and you register in advance through the event website.
  • Race formats differ — some are timed competitions and others are obstacle pass-or-fail courses, so check the specific event details before you enter.
  • Training at a Ninja Warrior gym prepares you for Obstacle Warriors events because the obstacles are similar, though arranged differently each race.
  • Events run year-round at different locations, so you can find races near you by checking the official schedule.

How entry and registration work

To compete in an Obstacle Warriors event, you register online through the official event website before race day. Registration opens weeks or months in advance, depending on the event. You choose your race distance or difficulty level (beginner, intermediate, advanced), pay the entry fee, and receive a race bib and start time.

Entry fees depend on the location, course length, and how far in advance you register. Early registration is usually cheaper than registering close to race day. Some events offer discounts for group entries or for competitors who have raced before. Children often have separate divisions with their own entry fees and course modifications.

On race day, you arrive early to check in, get your timing chip or bib, and warm up. The race starts in waves — groups of competitors begin at staggered times so the course doesn't become overcrowded. You move through obstacles in order, and staff at each obstacle record whether you completed it or failed.

Race formats and what to expect on course

Obstacle Warriors events use different formats depending on the specific race. In timed races, you run the full course and your finish time is recorded. Your goal is to complete every obstacle and cross the finish line as fast as possible. Results are ranked by time, and top finishers may receive prizes or recognition.

In pass-or-fail formats, you either complete each obstacle or you don't — there's no time ranking. If you fail an obstacle, you might be eliminated from that race, or you might continue to the next obstacle depending on the event rules. These formats focus on obstacle completion rather than speed.

Obstacles on Obstacle Warriors courses include rope climbs, wall climbs, balance beams, cargo nets, monkey bars, warped walls, and other challenges similar to what you see on Ninja Warrior television. The specific obstacles and their order change from event to event. Courses are designed to be difficult but completable by trained competitors — most people who train regularly at a gym can finish at least the beginner or intermediate course.

How Obstacle Warriors training differs from gym training

At a Ninja Warrior gym, you practice individual obstacles repeatedly, refine your technique, and build strength in a controlled environment. You can attempt the same wall or rig as many times as you want, get feedback from coaches, and progress at your own pace.

Obstacle Warriors events are one-shot attempts. You get one try at each obstacle on race day (or sometimes two, depending on rules), and then you move forward. You don't have time to think through your approach — you have to execute what you've practiced. The course is also longer than a single gym session, so endurance matters as much as strength on any one obstacle.

This is why gym training and race training complement each other. Your gym work builds the specific strength and technique you need; race day tests whether you can explore that under pressure, fatigue, and time constraints. Many competitors do both — they train at a gym during the week and race at Obstacle Warriors events on weekends.

Locations, schedules, and how to find events near you

Obstacle Warriors runs events across multiple states throughout the year. Events are typically held on weekends, with spring and fall being the most common seasons for races. The official Obstacle Warriors website lists all upcoming events by location and date, along with registration links and course details for each race.

To find an event near you, visit the official schedule and filter by state or region. Each event listing shows the date, location, course options (beginner, intermediate, advanced), entry fee, and registration important date. Some locations host multiple events per year, so if you miss one race, another may be coming to your area in a few months.

You can also follow Obstacle Warriors on social media for announcements about new event locations and early registration openings. Some gyms and training facilities post information about upcoming races, and coaches often encourage their students to compete.

What to bring and how to prepare for race day

On race day, wear clothes you can move in — athletic shorts or leggings and a shirt that won't restrict your arms. Many competitors wear minimal clothing because you will get wet and muddy. Bring a change of clothes and a towel for after the race. Wear shoes with good grip; trail running shoes or cross-training shoes work well. Some people race barefoot, but that's a personal choice.

Arrive at least 30 to 60 minutes before your start time to check in, get your bib and timing chip, and warm up. Bring water and a small snack if you want to eat before your race. After you finish, you'll be tired and possibly sore, so having dry clothes and a way to get home matters.

The week before the race, train lightly or rest. The day before, eat normally and stay hydrated. Don't try new obstacles or push hard in the days leading up to the race — you want to arrive fresh, not injured or exhausted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a member of a Ninja Warrior gym to compete in Obstacle Warriors?

No. Obstacle Warriors events are open to anyone who registers and pays the entry fee. Many competitors train at gyms, but you can also train on your own, at a CrossFit box, or with a group of friends. You don't need a gym membership to race.

What happens if I fail an obstacle during the race?

That depends on the specific event format. In some races, failing an obstacle means you're done — you don't continue. In others, you move on to the next obstacle even if you fail. Check the event rules before you register so you know what to expect.

Can kids compete in Obstacle Warriors events?

Yes. Most Obstacle Warriors events have divisions for children, with shorter courses and modified obstacles. Kids usually compete in their own age groups. Check the event listing to see what age divisions are offered and what the entry fee is for children.

How long does an Obstacle Warriors race take?

Race time depends on course length and difficulty. Beginner courses might take 20 to 40 minutes; intermediate courses 30 to 60 minutes; advanced courses can take an hour or longer. Your personal time depends on how fast you move and how quickly you complete each obstacle.

Do I need to be in great shape to compete?

Beginner courses are designed for people new to obstacle racing, so you don't need to be an elite athlete. That said, obstacle racing requires functional strength and endurance. If you've been training at a Ninja Warrior gym for a few months or doing similar cross-training, you're probably ready for a beginner or intermediate race.