What happens when you really want to take on the Trials & Tribulations challenge, but can’t find enough like-minded participants to take part with you?
Well if waiting to join a larger group is not an option, a public mud run might be an alternative, enabling you and a couple of friends to create your own challenge, without worrying about all the logistics of creating your own event.
If you’re looking to take on a fitness challenge that’s empowering yet fun, mud runs have emerged as an ideal choice. They offer a welcoming environment, with increasing numbers of women-specific waves and beginner-friendly courses.
These events provide a blend of camaraderie, physical endurance, and a sense of achievement without the ultra-competitive or “macho” intensity of extreme events.
Here’s a look at some fantastic mud run options across the UK, including experiences that have encouraged participation from Muslim women.
The Nuts Challenge
The Nuts Challenge, located in the rolling countryside of Dorking in Surrey, has gained a reputation as one of the best mud runs in the UK, especially for beginners.
This event offers a fun, supportive atmosphere with an extensive range of obstacles like mud crawls, rope swings, and water crossings. With various difficulty levels, the Nuts Challenge is perfect for those new to obstacle racing, allowing participants to select the 7km course that’s manageable yet challenging.
Muslim women have been part of this event, often inspired by its friendly, inclusive atmosphere. This mud run is highly praised for its organisation and attention to the comfort of all participants, making it a top choice for women-only teams or even gender-mixed groups who want to experience an adventurous day.
Cost: Approximately £50-£70 per person, depending on the course length.
Muddy Race for Life
Cancer Research UK’s Muddy Race for Life series is another accessible, beginner-friendly option. Hosted at various locations across the UK, this mud run is designed specifically for women and focuses on community support and charitable fundraising rather than competition.
Events like this have been popular among women of all fitness levels, including Muslim women who appreciate the positive, all-female environment. The obstacles are simple and fun, from inflatable slides to mud pits, allowing participants to go at their own pace.
The Muddy Race for Life has become a staple for beginner mud runners, offering a supportive setting without the pressures of mixed-gender waves.
Cost: Usually around £20-£30, with funds going towards Cancer Research UK.
Pretty Muddy
Pretty Muddy Kids & Adults is another Cancer Research UK initiative. These events cater to families and friends who want a fun day out while raising funds for a good cause. Many Muslim families and groups of women have embraced this race as an opportunity to engage in a community activity while keeping it low-stakes and beginner-friendly.
The courses are typically 5km, making them very accessible for participants of different fitness levels. Though this event is gender-mixed, it still maintains a light-hearted atmosphere that focuses more on enjoyment and teamwork than competition.
Cost: £10-£20 per adult; £5-£10 for kids.
Wild Mud Run
Known for its stunning scenic views and less-intense approach, the Wild Mud Run in Derbyshire offers a unique experience where participants can enjoy beautiful landscapes along with fun, muddy obstacles.
This event has a reputation for its welcoming environment and beginner-friendly course design, making it an attractive option for Muslim women looking for a relaxed yet challenging activity. Obstacles range from mud pits to balance beams, with a course length of around 5-10km depending on one’s preference.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to get outdoors, meet new people, and experience the rewards of a physical challenge in a mixed-gender setting.
Cost: £30-£40 per person.
Rough Runner
Rough Runner is an obstacle course inspired by popular game shows, making it ideal for beginners. The event takes place across multiple UK locations and includes courses as short as 5km.
The obstacles are designed to be entertaining rather than intimidating, with many inspired by TV challenges. The supportive and light-hearted vibe of Rough Runner has drawn a wide range of participants, including Muslim women, who appreciate the focus on fun over competition.
Cost: Typically £50-£60 for shorter courses.
Total Warrior
Total Warrior offers a beginner-friendly 6km option, perfect for those new to mud runs but eager for a challenge. With obstacles like mud slides, easy rope climbs, and water-based challenges, Total Warrior combines physical fun with scenic landscapes.
It’s known for its warm community feel, and past events have seen many women-only teams participating. Muslim women who have attended this event appreciated the balance of physical activity with a supportive group setting, making it accessible to everyone regardless of fitness level.
Cost: £45-£60 depending on early bird or regular registration.
Gender-mixed environments
While many of these events do have gender-mixed groups, this setup can reflect real-life situations faced by refugees fleeing across continents in search of safety. For Muslim women in this situation, they have no choice but to walk amongst crowds of strangers.
For women looking to join a challenge, remember that these events are created to encourage inclusion, and organisers generally prioritise safety and comfort for all participants. Many mud runs also offer specific women-only waves, so it’s possible to have an event tailored to what suits you best.
Is this the challenge for you?
These mud runs offer a unique blend of physical fitness and personal growth. In the UK, where several Muslim women have embraced these activities, mud runs provide a space to break down barriers, celebrate health, and experience the camaraderie of like-minded women.
Whether you’re building up to a Trials & Tribulations with a larger group, or just want a fun day out, these events are a wonderful way to make new friends, push personal boundaries, and enjoy an exciting outdoor experience that’s as inclusive as it is empowering.