About The Obstacle Gym
The Midlands Premier Obstacle Training Facility
Welcome to The Obstacle Gym, your exhilarating destination in the heart of the Midlands for obstacle racing and adventure. Our state-of-the-art facility isn't just an obstacle course – it's a playground for all ages and skill levels.
Embarking on an OCR journey for the first time? Our course is designed to give novices an encouraging introduction. Perhaps you're a seasoned racer, eager to sharpen your tactics and techniques. Our challenging layouts and unique obstacles are perfect for honing your skills. Or maybe you're just on the lookout for a vibrant spot where fitness meets fun, perfect for a family outing or a playful day with the kids? Look no further - The Obstacle Gym is your place to be!
Located conveniently near Tamworth, with easy access from M42 Jnc9 and Jnc10, we encourage you to drop by and discover the endless adventures we offer. We also proudly host team-building exercises and racing events, providing the perfect space for companies, race teams, and children's parties alike to build camaraderie and create lasting memories.
Have questions about our courses, availability or just wish to know more about us? We're always here to assist you. Feel free to reach out at [email protected] or drop us a line at 07458 306814. At The Obstacle Gym, we don't just build courses, we build experiences. Discover yours today!
What You Get
Come and experience the best OCR training facility in the Midlands. We have obstacles, fantastic forest trails, and many more amazing things for you, your family, and your friends to experience. With around 22 obstacles set on a 750m course, we offer the ultimate way to prepare for an OCR event, whatever your previous experience is.
History of The Obstacle Gym
The Obstacle Gym first opened in Lutterworth in 2014, founded by Chris and Colin from Reaper OCR. As one of the UK’s first dedicated obstacle training centers, the multi-award-winning venue quickly earned a reputation as the place to train for both elite OCR athletes and fun runners alike. Following the closure of the original site, the Obstacle Gym baton was confidently passed to Griff & Tress at G&T Fitness, who swiftly transformed the new location in Tamworth into a thriving hub of activity, all while staying true to the ethos of testing limits through both man-made and natural obstacles. We are fortunate to still have Chris from Reaper OCR regularly at the site, keeping an eye on development and offering a helping hand.
Experienced Staff
Our experienced team of professionals is there to help you achieve your goals and learn to master every course. When you first join us, they will help you by explaining courses and supporting you all the way. Our staff will also check in with you regularly to ensure that you’re achieving the desired results, and that you are ultimately having fun, because that's whats all about, having fun while being outside doing bonding physical activities with family or friends.
Griff and Tress originally met while helping out with a local children's charity, where their passion for outdoor fitness and obstacle course races became clear. They then began creating and coaching at a local OCR center based at Cliff Lakes. After helping out at the award-winning center for several years, the center closed in 2019. The pair continued coaching fitness classes together at gyms and halls until COVID-19 halted group activities. During the lockdown downtime, they found a permanent home at Doshill Quarry, where G&T Fitness could hold group fitness sessions post-COVID. Griff wanted to be ready to race once the lockdowns were over, and the first of half a dozen obstacles were built at the new site. The original course was only 600 meters but still a lot of fun. As things progressed, they were fortunate to be gifted the Obstacle Gym name. With help from Chris, the course has continued to improve every year. The course currently spans over a mile with 30-plus obstacles. Although the course is self-funded, both Griff and Tress are always looking for ways to improve and continue running outdoor fitness sessions at the site.
Meet the Coaches
Griff
The Spartan Racer
Meet Griff, our resident Spartan warrior and OCR enthusiast! If there’s an event out there, he’s probably already competed in it – from obstacle course races like OCR, Euros, and Worlds to hybrid races like Hyrox and road and trail running, Griff has done it all. Known for his towering physical presence and booming voice, if you can’t see him at an event, you’ll definitely hear him! Griff is passionate about pushing limits, but don’t worry – he’ll never race without the promise of food and ice cream afterward. With years of experience in various events and coaching, he’s here to make sure you conquer the course – and if you need help getting over a wall, Griff’s got you covered.
Tress
The Technical Coach
Tress is our tech and performance expert. Whether it’s perfecting your obstacle technique or getting the most out of your body with biohacking, Tress can do it all – but only after a morning coffee! From his deep understanding of biohacking to his passion for technical coaching, Tress is all about improving physical performance in a smart and sustainable way. He’s known as “Mr. Colombian” for his diverse event experience and love of technical coaching. While he might not be the best before coffee, once he’s had his cup, you’ll be hearing all about ways to push your performance to the next level!
Em
The Recovery Specialist
Meet Em, the trainer who might just be the toughest coach you’ll ever have, but in the best way possible! Specializing in injury recovery and prevention, Em brings years of experience in exercise physiology and adaptive training. Her approach combines tough love with effective, rewarding training that challenges you to be your best, all while keeping injury prevention in mind. Em is often referred to as “evil” or “mean,” but trust us – she knows how to get results. If you're looking for someone who can push you through the pain and ensure you recover stronger than before, Em is your go-to coach. She’s a true “Personal Torture Instructor” – but you’ll thank her afterward!
Join the Team
The GTeam is our inclusive Obstacle Run/Race team, welcoming athletes of all abilities. We believe in supporting each other, improving together, and having fun along the way. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just starting your obstacle racing journey, we’ve got your back. Don’t race alone – join the team and experience the camaraderie and motivation that come with it. Order your race top today in the shop and get added to our team chat for updates and support.
