Mudding Newbie Tips
Posted on: 30 January 2017
So, you've been invited to "go mudding" and you said "Yes." The only problem is you have no clue what mudding is or how to prepare for it. Kudos for being adventurous! This post will help you out with a little bit of the technical stuff.
What Mudding Is
Mudding is also known as "mud bogging" or "mud racing." This is formally a type of race in which off-road vehicles are used to race in muddy areas. Sometimes vehicles get stuck and can't continue. If everybody makes it through a designated mud pit or muddy course, the vehicle with the fastest completion time is considered the winner of the race. Most mudders are up for some friendly competition, so they may have a mudding track set up for the race.
Own Your Newbie Status
Even though you tried to be cool and just accept the invitation, no questions asked, be sure to convey the fact that you're new to the sport. This isn't meant to be embarrassing, but to keep you and the other drivers and riders safe. If someone thinks you have more experience than you really do, they may ask you to participate in ways that could be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing.
If you're not comfortable outright stating that you've never done it before, just say that you haven't been since you were really young.
Wear the Right Clothes
Yes, you should probably wear something that you are okay with becoming caked in mud. However, don't forget to consider the temperature and your own safety. Items like thermal underwear (in colder weather), a helmet, and a waterproof case for your phone in case of emergency are essential. Nearly 400 people die in off road vehicle accidents each year. You can have fun and be safe at the same time. Having lights on your off-roading vehicle could help you if the race is going on after dark.
See-Saw Out of Deep Mud
If you do end up getting stuck, try to remember not to dig into the mud by flooring the accelerator and spinning the tires. The moment you stop moving forward, reverse as much as you can (it may only be a few inches), and then drive forward again. Doing this repeatedly will often end up eventually lifting you up over a hump and out of a hole.
With these tips in mind and people around you who have some mudding know-how, you should have a great (and very messy) day!
Share