Finding a suitable venue
Assault course requirements
Look for venues that offer:
- Family-friendly obstacles: Appropriate for mixed ages (13-16 years plus adults)
- Professional supervision: Qualified staff and safety protocols
- Changing facilities: Clean toilets and washing areas
- Parking facilities: Safe vehicle storage for extended periods
- Booking flexibility: Accommodation for small family groups
Research approach
- Online searches: “Assault course [your area]”, “mud run venues”, “outdoor activity centres”
- Distance considerations: Within 1-2 hours drive from home
- Cost factors: Expect £20-40 per person for family bookings
- Special requests: Explain your modest dress requirements when booking
Venue verification checklist
- Insurance and safety: Confirm professional operation and safety protocols
- Age requirements: Ensure teenagers can participate with parental supervision
- Facilities: Adequate parking, toilets, and basic washing facilities
- Weather policies: Understand cancellation and rescheduling procedures
Planning your walking route
Route selection criteria
- Circular walk: Starting and ending at assault course venue car park
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour of walking at family pace
- Terrain: Manageable for family group wearing modest clothing
- Safety: Avoid busy roads, dangerous water features, or isolated areas
Research resources
- Ordnance Survey maps: Online mapping to identify footpaths near venue
- Walking websites: AllTrails, Walk4Life, or local council walking guides
- Venue recommendations: Many assault course venues can suggest local walks
- Reconnaissance visit: Consider driving the route beforehand if possible
Route planning considerations
- Weather contingency: Indoor or sheltered alternatives for poor weather
- Rest points: Identify benches or suitable stopping places
- Emergency access: Ensure mobile phone coverage and vehicle access if needed
- Timing: Allow extra time for family pace and modest dress considerations
For detailed venue research and route planning guidance, see the Venues section of the organiser guide.
Equipment and preparation
Family day bag essentials
Pack one shared bag containing:
- Water: Sufficient bottles for family hydration during walk and course
- Simple lunch: Sandwiches, fruit, and snacks for post-walk energy
- Basic first aid: Plasters, antiseptic wipes, any family medications
- Towels: For post-assault course cleanup (one per person)
- Plastic protection: Bin bags or dust sheets to protect car seats for muddy return journey
- Emergency contacts: Written list in case of mobile phone issues
Clothing
For fathers and sons
- Loose trousers, long-sleeve tops
- Regular outerwear, e.g. thobe, jubba or kurta
- Boots or sturdy trainers suitable for mud
For mothers and daughters
- Dark colour abaya, lightweight material suitable for physical activity
- Secure hijab that won’t shift during obstacles
- Boots that work with modest dress and provide good grip
- Sports bra and modest underlayers for comfort during activity
Driver’s special kit
- Change of shoes and socks: Clean footwear for driving home
- Spare trousers: Clean lower garments if needed for driving comfort
- Wet wipes: Personal cleanup supplies
Fitness preparation
- Family walks: Weekly walks building up to 1-2 hour duration
- Basic strength: Simple bodyweight exercises if family enjoys them
- Flexibility: Gentle stretching to prepare for varied movement
- Dress rehearsal: One practice walk in intended challenge clothing
Remember: The point is simulating sudden departure without preparation, so don’t over-train.