Amanda Mendes

Obstacle Course Racing Athlete

How do you train for your sport?: I do a lot of running, including trail running. I also rock climb and incorporate strength training workouts with weigh lifting and calisthenics. I supplement my training with yoga and acroyoga.

Other sports/hobbies: Rock climbing, hiking, and I'm getting into camping and backpacking.

Favorite JTree product: I use the climbing salve everyday. Last year I had been having a lot of problems tearing up my hands during races and training. About a year ago, I badly tore my hands during a race. At the suggestion of an online friend, I started using the JTree climbing salve and haven't had any bad tears since then. Working in health care, I use a lot of hand sanitizer that dries out my hands, so I love having a product that will keep my hands moisturized without ruining the integrity of my callouses.

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out: Take it one day at a time! Celebrate your small victories, appreciate the progress you've made, and keep working towards future goals.

What’s your best “party” trick: Acroyoga makes for fun party tricks. Since I started obstacle course racing, it seems like I'm always being challenged at parties. If you haven't completed a one-armed pushup contest in a dress and heels, you're going to the wrong parties!

What is the coolest thing you’ve ever won: I've won some pretty cool medals over the past couple years. At one race, I even won a campfire stove! My favorite medal isn't from a race. I spoke to a local Cub Scout troop about obstacle course racing and overcoming bullying and as a thank you they made me a one-of-a-kind medal. I was told they made three versions before they got it "just right."

Facebook: amandamendesathlete

Instagram: amandapandawarrior