How to tackle the Slippery Slide at The Major
The last obstacle requires much more than physical prowess to conquer effectively. Unlike all the other obstacles, where you needed to master physical ability to overcome them, the Slippery Slide is one you need to train mentally for, choreographing like a gymnast otherwise you will execute it without any style, class or grace.
Consideration One: The Position
Head-first, feet-first, front or back? Or do you attempt the mythical sprint down - some say it’s possible but none of us troops have seen proof of this to date.
The traditional belly-down position is most people’s choice. Stick your arms out body-surfing style.
For the more adventurous try head-first on your back. This can get you lots of speed but beware of collisions – visibility is not this position’s strong point.
And for the crazy, try the cannon ball. Grab your ankles, tuck your chin in your chest and hammer down taking anyone in your path down with you.
Consideration Two: The Entry
Option One: belly flop - with a giant leap into the air followed by the inevitable impact to the ground as gravity teaches you it can’t be denied. This entry will gain you lots of points for guts, and if the cameraman is quick you’ll have a cool new profile pic.
Option Two: the low dive - this can gain you a lot of speed but beware – this doesn’t necessarily allow for a graceful exit.
Option Three: The Face Plant. We don’t recommend this option.
Consideration Three: The Exit
When it comes time to exit it’s all about timing. If you ride it too long you’ll end up sliding along the mud and grass below - grass rash anyone?
The trick is to get your hands under your body at the last minute and ‘pop’ up like a surfer catching a wave with an explosive push up. Once your feet are underneath you, get them moving fast because your body will still have a lot of momentum.
For the graceful exit, just before you reach the edge of the slide, tuck one shoulder in with the body going over the top of it in a commando roll, coming up onto your feet and trotting off….classy!
