So, what am I doing? Well, running just one measly "extreme" race didn't seem like that much of a challenge, and so after saying I was going to up the ante for many months now, I've decided to go ahead with this ridiculous plan.

My challenge to myself is to run 5 "extreme" mud/obstacle based races before the end of 2013.

Here's the plan:

Tough Mudder - 8th June

12 mile obstacle race designed by the Special Forces. Electrocution, fire, mud, barbed wire, shipping containers of ice to swim through... Video

Tough Guy Nettle Race - 28th July

The summer edition of the Tough Guy. 18km of 10ft high nettles, fire, barbed wire, tasers etc. Video

Spartan 'Beast' Race - 25th August

12 mile obstacle race with the usual mud, fire, water etc. but also includes people hitting you with pugil sticks (think retro Gladiator tv show) Video

Men's Health Survival of the Fittest - 16th November

10km obstacle race at Batersea Power Station in London. A lot of scafolding based obstacles, ice baths, carrying sand bags, crawling... Video

Grim Challenge - 1st December

Mud. A lot of mud. 8 miles through an Army tank training course. Video

So, if you're still reading this and want to sponsor me go ahead and click on the link!

If you want to join any of the above races, that would be AWESOME. I really need people to join the Tough Mudder/Tough Guy as team mates are a huge help with some of the obstacles.

If you want to just watch me writhe in pain thoughout the year feel free to keep checking back here... 

All proceeds will go to Help for Heroes, a charity that needs no explanation of the amazing work they do.