Fitness junkies unleash their deadly side

Ruimsig Stadium hosted the much-anticipated fitness junkie paradise for athletes and gym enthusiasts on Saturday, May 3, called the Deadly Dozen Race.

The event is a fitness race and training methodology that combines 12 x 400m runs, or the Deadly Run, around an athletics track with an additional 12 exercise stations, called Labours, interspersed between each run. Together, this is aptly named the Deadly Dozen.

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According to the head of marketing, Mallen Pienaar, what sets this event apart is the inclusion of the 12 Labours, which are designed to test endurance, strength, and agility. These exercise stations can include a variety of exercises, such as kettlebell farmer’s carry, dumbbell lunges, burpee broad jumps, and weight plate clean and press, among others.

“One of the unique aspects of this race is its accessibility. The event utilises a limited number of equipment types, making it possible to train in various settings. This approach also emphasises the importance of mastering the fundamental movements, which are essential for overall fitness and athleticism,” Mallen explains.

With over 1 000 athletes ready to challenge themselves both physically and mentally, each station had a number of coaches and facilitators to motivate the athletes and assist with completing their sets.

Mallen adds that what stood out most about the event was the drive each athlete possessed to finish their course, even when they felt like giving up. With loud chants from their biggest supporters, tired bodies gathered their last bit of strength to complete the course and achieve their milestone.

“The turnout of the community was massive. We aim to grow the community around the country. Deadly Dozen is open to everyone, even the spectators. Our slogan is Train Anywhere, Race Everywhere, but that’s just for the competitors. This event showed us that this event brings people together, and that’s what we are about,” she said.