If you’ve tuned in to Australian Ninja Warrior on Channel 9, you’ve probably wondered what it would take to get that fit. For those who haven’t seen it, it’s a reality program where a bunch of insanely fit people compete in super difficult obstacle races. They leap, they swing and they sprint up almost-vertical walls (yes, really!) As you can imagine, it makes for highly entertaining TV.
We reckon the course would be just as fun to complete as it is to watch — especially when you’re not doing it in front of thousands of Australian viewers! The good news is, you don’t actually have to make it onto the show to give obstacle racing a go. A growing number of ‘ninja fit’ gyms have opened up across Australia. Not only does this style of training allow you to bring out your inner child (it’s basically a massive playground!), it’s fantastic for shedding body fat and improving your strength, agility and mental endurance.
Here’s where you can find an obstacle training gym in your state.
NSW
Obstacle Course Racing School
Designed by obstacle racing specialist, PT and army vet, Mick Gleeson, this course on NSW’s Central Coast features more than 12 thrilling obstacles — many of which are actually featured on the show!
Check it out here.
Run Jump Crawl
City dwellers can get their obstacle racing fix at the soon-to-be-opened Ninja Fitness centre at Run Jump Crawl’s Sydney gym.
Find out more here.
WA
Ninja Academy
Perth is home to the most extensive obstacle training facility in Australia, the Ninja Academy. For 25 bucks, you can get 3 hours of freestyle fun on the course or take one of their casual drop-in classes.
Find out more here.
VIC
X-Park at Bounce Inc
If you’re looking to test your fitness in an adult’s playground, look no further than X-Park. There’s more than 15 fun challenges that can tackled individually or as one circuit.
Apart from Glen Iris, Victoria, BounceInc also has locations in Tingalpa, QLD and Cannington, WA. Learn more here.
QLD
Terrain Training
Seriously thinking about trying out for the show? Terrain Training holds 6 week Ninja Warrior training programs at their outdoors circuit in Nerang. Be warned though, it’s not for everyone — you have to be able to do 4 unassisted pull-ups just to make it in.
Check it out here.
SA
SA Base Camp
This army-inspired obstacle course in Royal Park boasts 15 out-there obstacles, like running up a travelator, sprinting into a 80-100 km/h wind tunnel or attempting to push a 4 ton truck.
Learn more here.
