Ladder To Hell

Get ready for your fear of heights to get pushed to a whole new level. A 12-foot structure made of massive tree trunks with boards mounted between them, Ladder to Hell requires Mudders to climb up and down its looming frame while forcing themselves not to look down.

Obstacle History

Inspired by a classic military obstacle, this experience tests Mudders’ climbing ability and fear of heights. Ladder to Hell stresses the importance of three points of contact as you make a controlled climb over this hellish obstacle.

Suggested Training

Mental:
Identify a high-flying chore that needs doing (stringing Christmas lights, trimming a tree, cleaning gutters, etc.). Drag out your tallest ladder and practice remaining calm while carefully climbing up and down.

Physical:
Pull-ups – Complete 10 reps. Rest 2 minutes. Repeat 3 times.
Alternative- Assisted pull-ups: Using a partner or a set of resistance bands (just thick enough to achieve the prescribed reps) secured around your bar and locked under foot, perform pull-ups as described above.
Box Jump – Perform 10 box jumps. Rest for 1 minute. Complete 3 rounds.
Push-ups – Complete 20 reps. Rest 1 minute. Repeat 3 times.

Tough Mudder Tips

Tips: This one’s all about technique. Keep a low center of gravity as you move up the ladder, and make sure you keep three points of contact at all times (i.e. – two hands and a foot). Don’t bend over the rung when getting over the top. And watch out for your fellow Mudders—no one likes having their fingers crushed.

Author: Joe DiFiglia

Fitness and sport enthusiast. Spartan Race Junky. I have been a martial artist since the age of 4 and addicted to anything challenging. Years of Martial Arts training provides the ability to keep going when my body really wants to quit.