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Why You Should Be Training Barefoot

Barefoot running has been a subject of much debate and research in recent years. Some advocates claim that it can provide several benefits, while others argue that it may lead to increased risk of injury. Let’s explore both perspectives: Where did the barefoot running fad come from? Fitness fads aside, many argue the original “idea”…
Top 5 Sunscreens for the Responsible Outdoor Athlete

When it comes to choosing sunscreen products with fewer chemicals, it’s important to look for options labeled as “mineral” or “physical” sunscreens. These types of sunscreens typically contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which work by physically blocking or reflecting the sun’s rays, as opposed to chemical sunscreens that use chemical compounds…
What is Heart Rate Variability (HRV)? And Why Should I Track HRV?

Heart rate variability (HRV) is commonly measured using heart rate monitors that can analyze the variation in time intervals between heartbeats. While there are various devices available for measuring HRV, the “best” device depends on individual preferences, needs, and the specific context in which HRV measurements are required. Heart rate variability (HRV) refers to the…
Review: Altra Olympus 5 Running Shoe, A Trail Monster

The Altra Olympus 5 running shoes have long been hailed as a favorite among trail runners for their unmatched cushioning and impressive durability. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the features and performance of the latest iteration, the Altra Olympus 5. From enhanced grip to improved comfort, this shoe promises to deliver an exhilarating…
Conquering Challenges and Forging Bonds: The Rise of Obstacle Course Racing in Asia

Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) has emerged as a thrilling and rapidly growing sport that combines athleticism, endurance, and mental grit. Across Asia, OCR has gained significant traction, captivating fitness enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. From sprawling mud pits to towering walls and electrifying obstacles, OCR events offer participants a unique blend of physical challenges and…
The Best Fitness Watches for 2022

The fitness watches of 2022 are in a whole new category than even a couple of years ago. While it is possible the lead manufacturers are starting to hit their stride beyond “incremental updates” and “planned obsolescence,” there is no denying the sheer wow factor in some of today’s models. The purpose of this article…
Best Crossfit Shoes for 2022: Is NoBull Better than Reebok?

After watching the Crossfit games this year in Madison, you might have noticed a new sponsor: NoBull. This brand has taken hold of the sport over the last few years. Have they stolen the title as the best Crossfit shoe? If you’re a serious athlete, you know the importance of the right footwear. While Reebok…
Ultramarathon Training – Base Building, Supported Long Runs, Nutrition, and Recovery

If you’ve ever thought about running an ultramarathon, you might be wondering how to prepare for it. This article will look at the base building, supported long runs, nutrition, and recovery phases of ultramarathon training. Once you understand these elements, you’ll be well on your way to training for your first ultramarathon. There are also…
How to Train for Rope Climbing at Home

Long before the advent of Cross-fit or obstacle course racing, rope climbing has been a staple of any adventure sport or military training regimen. It is a fantastic training tool which requires grip strength, hand-foot coordination, pain tolerance, comfort at heights, and balance. This is one of the many reasons OCR events such as Spartan…
The Definitive Bug-Out Bag Shopping List

“A person is smart. People are dumb, dangerous, panicky animals and you know it.” Agent K, Men in Black (1997) Tommy Lee Jones’s commentary on mob mentality seems—during these uncertain times—to be truer than ever. Toilet paper is flying off the shelves, food supply chains are redlining, and people are protesting across the nation against…
5 Leadership Skills That Will Keep You Alive in a Survival Situation

When it comes to an emergency survival situation, it’s hard to look beyond the immediate threat. Gravely wounded group members, hysterical crying, disputes over resources, selfishness, and natural hazards are just a few of the difficulties you must learn endure. Despite this, a leader will always emerge. Boiling it down, there are certain leadership skill-sets…
Prep Guide and Gear List for Your First Spartan Race

Ready to take the leap and become a Spartan Finisher? Here are your gear list and guide to get started. The first thing you need to understand is how Spartan Race is structured. Generally speaking, there are three levels of difficulty. Each race has 3 heats (or waves) that are all released at different times:…
Stay on Course with This DIY Blister Kit

Whether you are on a leisurely hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, running an OCR race, or in the middle of a six-mile forced march up the Alpha Shelf, painful blisters are a reality. Here is how to make a blister kit. This is the same kit I carried with me during my time in…
Bivy Camping Like a Pro

Bivy camping is not only practical at times, it can be a tremendously rewarding experience. There is nothing quite like watching the natural world coming alive in the morning from amongst the elements. Unfortunately, because of the increased risk of exposure (or discomfort for that matter) many opt for a full tent. The truth is,…
Why I Chose the Garmin Tactix Bravo Over the Charlie

When looking for an all-purpose GPS watch, I narrowed the choice down to two watches: the Garmin Tactix “Bravo” and “Charlie.” In the end, I chose the Bravo for a variety of reasons. Below I discuss some of the differences as well as my experience. Launched in 2016, the Garmin Tactix Bravo went to market…
How Elevation Affects Your Performance

Exercising and performing at altitude is difficult. In fact, it sucks. Being a sea-level dweller who just competed in a Spartan race above 6000 feet, the effects were more than a myth even at a low altitude. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the effects of elevation on human performance as well as some…
How to Keep Perishables When Backpacking or Traveling

Perishable foods should really be packed out in such a way that you can enjoy them on any length of trip and in any climate. We also understand you may not always be backpacking through rough country. Many of us are just as likely to trek through cities, moving hostel to hotel, metro to metro.…
Preventing Injury and Losing Weight for Heavier Runners

This guide is not your usual detailed “4-Week Get Ripped Six Pack Extreme Jacked for Spring Break” plan. I am not going to sell you on a plan. I cannot say for certain that it will work for you. And I am not a doctor, nutritionist, or anything like that. If you are heavy–either lifter…
Ruck Running: The Truth About Running with a Ruck or Backpack

One of the most common misconceptions about running with a backpack or “ruck running” is that it systematically destroys your joints, impacts your spine, and causes more harm than good. There is some truth to this but it does not have to be. When done correctly and safely, though, ruck running will add substantial benefit to…
Quick and Simple Paleo Camping Tips

In this post, we break out some paleo camping tips and recipes for your next hike out. Staying away from the standard CLIF bar lunch or leftover-pizza-in-a-bag dinner can be difficult, especially when you are trying to stay paleo. First and foremost, you’ll need the right gear. Check out the tips below as well as…
The 3 Adventure Outdoor Apps You Need to Download Right Now

As much as we would all like to separate ourselves from mobile devices during a peaceful jaunt through the trails, it is becoming more a reality to rely on outdoor apps to guide us on new and exciting adventures. This applies to trail runners and hikers looking to map our their next spot or hikers…
Gear up for a Day Hike with This Checklist

Going on a day hike? We’ve put together a checklist to make sure you have the right gear going out the door. Every time we go out on a short hike, these are the bare essentials that make up our gear list. Here are a couple of guidelines to remember: Two is one, one is…
How to Choose the Right Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) Shoes

Proper OCR shoes will make or break your experience in any obstacle course race, here are how to choose one and our top picks. Disclaimer: We receive compensation from the companies whose products we review. We test each product thoroughly and give high marks to only the best. Field Athlete is independently owned and the opinions…