“I never thought I’d be able to do an Obstacle Course Race.”

A friend suggested that my wife, Angela try the Spartan Stadium Sprint at Lambeau Field in 2017 and all I could think was “Why would I want to do that?” As time wound down she had me watch a National Series race at one point and I realized that it might be enjoyable. I was hooked the moment I crossed the finish line, burpees and all.

We have used the OCR Underground 90 Day Training, the Fuel and Fire Monthly Program and the OCR Ultra Beast Program. This was perfect for me to have a plan already made up and easy to follow. The personal attention you can get with any of the OCR Underground programs are great! Training plans, evaluations, videos, podcasts, coaching calls, email, and a Facebook group are some of the resources available. Any questions were answered promptly, thoroughly and knowledgeably. While Angela and I completed only 2 Spartan races in 2017, we completed 7 Spartan races in 2018 finishing our first Trifecta 2X, followed by a Trifecta 3X with an Ultra in 2019!

I won’t say that an Ultra was easy, but I feel that with the training program we followed, we were well prepared and it wasn’t as difficult as I thought it would be. Crossing that finish line was something I had dreamed about for a year or two!

Zachary Achten

Favorite obstacle: twister and spear throw — when I complete them!

“I signed up for my first Spartan Race, an Ultra Beast in Tahoe, and quickly realized I had no idea how to prepare.”

I had a background in Ironman and marathon running but felt so lost trying to build a program from scratch based on guesswork. Thankfully, I found Mike and OCR Underground. Not only did I gain tremendous strength and fitness from his Ultra plan, I absolutely fell in love with the training. It was so unique and fresh from the endurance training I had done the last 10 years, it felt like discovering a completely new discipline. When race day came we battled the snow, cold, and elevation laughing and smiling the whole way. I felt prepared and was thrilled with how it came together. I’ve found that Mike is available by email and messaging with any questions and has been very supportive along the way. I would highly recommend the training plan for a Regular Joe looking to get started, as well as a seasoned Ironman looking for a new challenge.

SRPD SWAT Sgt Ryan Hepp

Favorite obstacle: sandbag carry

“Mike took me from recovering from a concussion to standing on the podium.”

I found Mike while recovering from a concussion. His podcasts got me through “the dark time” of concussion recovery and are a wealth of information for exercise and nutrition knowledge and Spartan insight. When I was able to get back into training, I started his online program and loved the workouts so much that I soon moved to individual coaching. Mike is a huge advocate of functional training which is highly advantageous for any Spartanite. His unique methodology is a comprehensive workout, including mobility and corrective exercises. Because Mike has a deep understanding of exercise physiology, he is able to work obstacle-specific strengthening into various strength programs, allowing you to gain the skills you need while keeping the risk of muscle burnout and injury at bay. Under Mike’s guidance, I was able to not only get back on the course, but enter the competitive Age Group division. Mike’s training methodology, obstacle expertise, and coaching support helped me surpass goals I wasn’t sure possible! He supported me through recovery, pushed me when I needed it, and gave me a solid plan when I was doubting myself. I had started the season wanting to place top 10 just once. Mike helped me place top 10 in 4 of 5 competitive races and land a 2nd place podium finish. The following season, I secured two bronze medals and one gold! From concussion to podium, it has been quite a journey. One that I could not have done without Mike.

JEN RHOTON

Favorite obstacle: sand bag carry

“I’ve been part of Fuel and Fire for a short period, and Mike and Anne have already given me a wealth of training and nutrition information.”

I was getting ready for my last race of the year and Anne posted some great information about pre-race nutrition and hydration which I feel made a significant impact in my ability to complete the race cramp free and push through to the end! I am impressed with the offseason training. Mike is making me look at some specific movements like the squat and pushups to clean up my form and work on some mobility deficits. This will be invaluable in preparing me to tackle another season in top shape. I love this picture because I was able to conquer the Monkey-Twister-Monkey for the first time at the West Virginia Beast and hitting that bell was exhilarating!!!

JOSEE WILLIAMS

Favorite obstacle: monkey-twister-monkey

“I can not even begin to show gratitude for your guidance and support this season. What a ride it’s been.”

Starting with my first elite race and a goal to finish the season “in the middle of the pack” to finishing top 10 in the last two races of the season. You’ve made me step back when I’ve needed me to and helped push my limits at other times. Most importantly you’ve made me believe in myself and helped me to build a stronger mind in the process. I know that this is only the beginning and there is so much more to tap into but that’s a wrap for this season. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. You really are the best coach.

CRIT GORDON

Favorite obstacle: the rig

“In my forties, I laughed it off — I’m getting old, heavy, less active. Now, at 51, I’ve never been in better shape, more active, more productive or had a more positive, energetic, and like-minded health-conscious group of friends.”

I started with triathlons then signed up for my first Spartan in Temecula, Jan 2016. I found Mike and was encouraged to do more than I thought I could. I built strength and stamina I didn’t think were in me. I was also taught the technical details of efficiently conquering obstacles, which I think is so important (and fun). These days, I talk with Mike about the various strategies for each and every obstacle. Like many who get involved in OCRs, I love breaking down different techniques and finding the best approach that fits with me.

I now race in the competitive Age Division and recently had my first 1st place finish. Standing on the podium was awesome. It was made better by realizing I had friends around me that I made over the years, raced with, and trained with. Spartan races mean sharing another great race weekend with great friends.

Rob Kania

Favorite obstacle: olympus, because I recently mastered it