Raising Little Warriors: How to Get Kids Into OCR and Outdoor Adventure

Bringing your kids along on your obstacle course races (OCR) and outdoor adventures isn’t just fun—it’s a chance to shape them into resilient, confident warriors. Mud, sweat, and the outdoors can teach them the lessons they’ll carry for life. Here's how you can start incorporating your little warriors into OCR and outdoor adventures to create memories and raise tough, durable humans.

Start with Backyard Obstacles

Forget the big races right out of the gate. Begin in your own backyard. Create fun, simple obstacle courses. Pool noodle hurdles, tree swings, or 2x4 balance beams are all you need to build their coordination and confidence. The goal? Help them discover the joy of movement and play.

Pro tip: Make it a competition. Racing each other or the clock can add an extra layer of excitement.

photograph courtesy of Lionhearts OCR

Kid-Specific OCR Events

OCR doesn’t always have to be an adults-only game. Many events, like Spartan Kids or Tough Mudder Mini Mudders, offer scaled-down courses with hay bales, low walls, and tunnels—perfect for younger adventurers. These events emphasize fun over competitiveness and give kids a safe intro to the sport.

Bonus: You’re showing them that fitness and adventure aren’t just short-term goals, they’re a way of life. 

Teach Basic OCR Skills

Kids are natural mimics. Next time you're training, show them how to crawl under nets or balance on logs. Keep it safe, but let them push their limits. These early lessons in technique and safety will set the stage for a lifelong love of challenges.

Pro tip: Make it a family affair—train together, build fitness, and grow closer as a unit.

Embrace the Mess

Mud is your best friend here. Let your kids dive in. Splashing in puddles and rolling in the dirt is half the fun and teaches them to embrace discomfort. Plus, resilience grows when they realize they’re stronger than a little dirt.

Pro tip: Celebrate with a post-race “mud party” where everyone hoses off together, laughing through the grime. 

Adventure Hikes as the Gateway

Not ready for a full OCR race with the kids? Adventure hikes are a great intro. Choose varied terrains, cross streams, climb over logs, or create mini challenges along the way. It’s all about keeping them engaged and in awe of nature.

Bonus: This builds mental toughness and endurance—traits every future OCR athlete will need. 

Teach Teamwork and Problem Solving

One of the biggest takeaways from OCR is the value of teamwork. Get your kids used to helping each other over walls and figuring out how to navigate obstacles together. These skills transfer off the course too, teaching them cooperation and perseverance in the real world.

Life lesson: These problem-solving skills will stick with them long after the mud washes off. 

Keep it Fun and Light

The focus shouldn’t be on building future elite athletes—at least, not yet. Keep things fun. Celebrate their small wins, and don’t stress the mistakes. The more fun they have, the more they’ll want to do it again.

Key reminder: If it’s fun, they’ll keep coming back for more, which is what you want. 

Patience and Leading by Example

Not all kids jump in headfirst. Some may need more time to warm up to obstacles or hikes. Be patient, encourage progress, and let them see the joy you get from these challenges. Your example will inspire them far more than any words.

Final Thought: Building Future Warriors

By raising your kids in the world of OCR and outdoor adventure, you’re not just strengthening their bodies—you’re growing their resilience, grit, and teamwork. Whether it’s backyard challenges or hitting the trails, the journey will be messy, fun, and full of unforgettable moments. Start them young, and you’ll raise strong, adventurous humans ready to take on anything.