Navigating steep, slippery banks, wading through murky water, and then climbing back up can be challenging. When crossing in an abaya, preparation and technique are key for handling this adventure with confidence and safety.
Here’s a complete guide for managing each part of the ditch crossing while keeping your footing secure and minimising the risk of injury.
Sliding safely down the deep bank
Find your path before you slide
As you approach the edge, take a moment to assess the bank. Look for a spot where the mud appears packed rather than loose and overly slippery. Picking a more stable area will help you slide down in control rather than tumbling.
Position yourself in a controlled slide
When you’re ready to descend, sit down and use your feet as brakes while keeping your weight slightly back. Leaning backward prevents you from pitching forward, which is especially helpful when wearing an abaya that could get caught or restrict forward movement.
Protect your ankles
Flex your feet upward as you slide, which helps you stay steady and avoid twisting your ankles. Aim to slide on the outer sides of your feet rather than the toes or heels, as this gives you better control. Muddy slopes can be rocky or uneven, so try to keep your feet clear of any obvious hazards.
Stay seated or crouched
Sliding down on your seat or in a low crouch keeps you closer to the ground, reducing the risk of slipping and protecting your ankles. Use your hands to control your descent by gripping the mud on either side of you if you’re seated or pressing down gently if crouched.
Wading through muddy water
Step lightly and steadily
Once you’re in the ditch, keep your steps light and feel for solid ground beneath you. The water may hide uneven surfaces or rocks, so test each step before transferring your full weight. Move deliberately, lifting each foot completely out of the mud rather than shuffling.
Use your arms for balance
Extend your arms slightly to the sides for balance. Muddy water can create resistance around your legs, making balance trickier. Using your arms helps you stabilize and prevents you from needing to grip the walls of the ditch, which can be unexpectedly slippery.
Stay relaxed and accept the mess
Expect that your abaya will collect some mud here, especially at the hem. While it might be tempting to keep it out of the mud, embracing the mess allows you to focus fully on your footing and balance. The mud is part of the experience—don’t let it distract you from steady, safe movement.
Climbing out
Grip the bottom of the cargo net firmly
Most assault courses use a cargo net for the climb out of a ditch. Start by gripping the bottom row tightly, stabilising yourself by pulling with your hands and pushing with your feet.
Climb in a zigzag pattern
Climbing in a diagonal pattern rather than straight up can improve stability and reduce strain on your ankles. Move one hand and the opposite foot at the same time, distributing your weight to prevent the net from swaying as you ascend.
Check each foot placement
With muddy feet, it’s easy to lose grip, so make sure each foot is secure before shifting your weight. Place your foot on the netting with your sole flat, avoiding the edges of the rope where it can be slippery. If you feel any unsteadiness, adjust immediately rather than continuing upward.
Take your time at the top
As you reach the top of the net, take a moment to steady yourself before getting off. With slippery mud and uneven surfaces, it’s easy to twist an ankle or lose footing. Focus on climbing over slowly and keeping balance until you’re securely on the other side.
Tips for protecting your ankles
Opt for ankle-supportive footwear
Wear trail shoes with sturdy ankle support and a good tread pattern, which will help prevent slips and support your feet when climbing out. Shoes with reinforced ankle support reduce the risk of twisting and add stability when moving on uneven surfaces.
Consider an athletic wrap or ankle braces
If you’re prone to ankle injuries or want added protection, wearing an athletic wrap or ankle brace can provide extra stability. They won’t hinder your movement and will offer valuable support if you happen to misstep or encounter a rock.
Stay aware of where you’re landing
Avoid jumping down from heights when possible, especially into uncertain terrain. High-impact landings are a common cause of ankle injuries. Instead, lower yourself down carefully, stepping down gradually to avoid strain.
Embrace the mud and have fun
On this challenge, especially when wearing an abaya, mud is unavoidable—so go in expecting to get dirty! Relaxing about the mess will keep you focused on the experience and the fun of the course. Mud and water will come off, but safety and finishing the challenge are the real goals.
Navigating a muddy ditch, wading through thick water, and climbing out can all be enjoyable and rewarding experiences when done safely and confidently. With these tips, you can tackle even the messiest obstacles with grace and stability, keeping both your abaya and your ankles intact.