Q:Is this one race or do we do it in sections?

A:The UFD was designed as one sequential race to give you some measure of your overall fitness. The main trophy being able to complete it, doing all fitness challenges for all repetitions, however if you really cannot complete any particular event just move on to the next.  Participants start in waves and progress through the field of fitness challenges consecutively and then enter the trail run without any set break times other than what you decide is required.  And it is designed so that you will have to take breaks, so don’t expect to blow right through it without pausing to catch your breath.

Q:How do I know if I am fit enough to complete the UFD?

A:We do not want people to compete in UFD that have not been running and strength training (full body) prior to the race.   That would be a risk of injury and missing the point altogether. However we also don’t want people to be overly intimidated by the course.  If you have been working out and are just concerned about 1-2 of the fitness challenges or the combination of the strength and running, you should definitely compete.  You would be surprised what you can do on race day, many of the 2012 participants were.

Q:What if I cannot complete a fitness challenge? can I skip it?

A:At the end of the day you will do what you can on race day and if you can’t complete a fitness challenge just move on, no big deal. We do ask that racers make a concerted effort at each challenge rather than planning on skipping through an making up time.  If you skip or cannot complete all the repetitions of a particular challenge you are ineligible for a top finisher award.

Q:How do I train for the UFD?

We provide all the details on the course and a free training program (see homepage) so please train for this race and complete at least one test run.  We will hold several training sessions in the Philadelphia area that are open and free to all.  Just like other endurance races you need to put some time into preparation only with the UFD you will actually need to do well balanced training, i.e. not just run.

Q:Is this like a mud run? Will there be mud or water obstacles?

A:This is not a military obstacle race or mud run, this is about complete fitness. That said there is likely water crossings and mud on the trail as nature is dirty so be prepared but you will not be crawling in pits of mud and poop to prove your toughness. No swimming is necessary, just wading.

Q:How much time does the race take? Is there a time limit?

A:Racers generally finish in the range of 75-120 minutes.  If you estimate needing a long time to complete, please email us and we will put you in an earlier stating wave  info@unitefitness.com.

Q:What happens if I get injured and cannot race? can I transfer my place?

A:If you get injured or can otherwise not race we will offer you a credit for a future race or you can transfer your enrollment to another person who is not already registered. Please email us with your situation and details info@unitefitness.com.

Q:How do the teams work? can we run in a relay?

A:Each of the people on your team will complete the entire race.  There is no relay allowed, i.e. you cannot just go through the fitness challenges and have your teammate do the trail run.

Q:Can I register teams of 4 or more?

A:Yes, we are not restricting teams but each individual needs to register and select the team name from the dropdown after the first person that registers creates it.

Q:Can I register the day of the race?

A:No, registration will close 1 week prior to race day so we can prepare properly.

Q:How do I know what time I will start the race? Bib pickup?

A:We will be sending out the schedule of waves 1 week before the race. There are 20 competitors per wave that start together. Be prepared to be in the first or last wave or any in between. We will place teams of three in the same wave to compete together. Bib number pickup will occur at registration/check-in desk the day of the race.  Racers MUST check-in 30 minutes prior to their starting wave time.

Q:Do I need to fundraise?

A:Yes, we are asking all individuals to raise a minimum of $100 to be donated on race day (bring check or cash) directly to PSPCA to support their programs for animal wellfare.

Q:Will there be medics present on race day? massage therapists?

A:Absolutely we have EMS on site at every race.  We will also have massage therapists on site post race.

Q:Is there a minimum age requirement?

A:Racers under 18 have to have a parent or guardian come to registration on the day of the event to give permission.  We will not accept racers under the age of 14.

Q:I cannot participate this year but would like to volunteer?

A:Like every big race event, we need a large amount of race day volunteers to assist with setup, trail marshals, food/bev, fitness challenges, etc.  Please email juliet@unitefitness.com with your availability race day.  Volunteers receive a UFD T-shirt, food/bev and other gifts for their service, plus a front row seat and a discounted entry rate for next year!

Q:What should I bring to the UFD?

A:No equipment is needed, just your regular workout apparel and trail ready running shoes.  It would be a good idea to bring a towel and change of clothes and a plastic bag for wet/dirty clothes.  You will be receiving a great UFD T-shirt and wrist band upon completion so we encourage racers to where them as badge of honor.  We will provide water stations, post race snacks and bathrooms (no showers), however you might want to bring food and beverages you are accustomed to eating.

Q:Is there personal storage at the race?

A:We will take bags and store them at the registration/check-in desk, however we are not responsible for theft or damage.

Q:Can friends/kids come to watch me race? my dog?

A:This is a spectator, kid and dog friendly event.  You will be able to watch competitors go through the field of 10 fitness challenges but dogs must be attended at all times and on leashes.

Q:Is there transportation to city provided? Parking?

A:There is no transportation provided to or from the event, however we are helping volunteers arrange carpooling if you volunteer.  The event is about 15-20 minutes outside of center city Philadelphia although you feel much farther out.  There is free street parking along Wissahickon park but it is somewhat limited so we ask racers to try and carpool with their teams.

Q:What can we expect at the post race party?

A:We invite all racers, volunteers and spectators to attend the post race party. We will have food and drinks (alcoholic and non), awards will be given out and music will be playing.